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Sermon Title: “The movement must keep going!” Dr. .Jamal H. Bryant

  • Sunday, March 25. 2012 07:30


    Sermon Entitled:       “The movement must keep going.
    ” Matthew 7:7 Ask until it happens

    Partial Sermon Notes... Uncut and unedited  (will insert video as soon as it is released)

    “Had technical difficulties this morning but I will post the video sermon in it’s full entirety… We will not be defeated! This word right here has got to be heard all around the world. #powerful”

    We going HOLY HOOD at Empowerment Temple 3.25.12

    We going HOLY HOOD athttp://empowermenttemple.org on Sunday! Spread the word! #FBhttp://pic.twitter.com/TdpDAIa7

    pic.twitter.com/TdpDAIa7
    Dr. Jamal Bryant: He was well into his sermon by the time my computer connected to the streaming live….

    Hey may not come when you want him but he will be there right on time! I feel like running on today!!!

    I get joy when I think about what he’s done for me… Jesus I’ll never forget what you done for me…

    Lift up your voice like you praying…. God, I can’t hear nobody… .Lift up your voice like you

    are praying!!!

    Don’t wait until the battle is over, but shout right now like you already have the answer:  I’ve never seen the righteous forsaken or the seed begging bread…

    No weapon formed against me shall proper…. Your prayer is about to be answered…

    In a moment in a twinkling of an eye… When it comes it going to be pressed down shaken together and running over…

    Prayers about your children, money and family is about the be answered!!!

    It getting ready to jump off for you… Your prayer is getting ready to be answered!!!

    Musicians, put your foot on the break for one minute and let me walk by myself….

    I don’t want to start nothing in this room… I don’t want to start a riot, but you getting reading to get a email, a message on phone, a knock on your door… Your prayer is about to be answered!!!ff

    Trayvon Martin, 28 days ago was walking to his father’s house, and all he had was some skittles and a Arizona ice tea.. He called in to the police, and they told him not to proceeed… He disobeyed headquurters, and followed him for 2 miles.. Shot him in the chest point blank…

    We heard the 911 tapes…. One month later, no arrest.. Even after the President of United States spoke, still no arrest…
    450,000 signatures and still no arrest… Why are we in hoods today and why are you flying to Orlando on tonight? Because I messed around and read Matthew 7…

    Sometimes you have to ask for justice, you have to ask for equality… Even if he don’t answer, just keep on answeringg…

    How much do you want us to scream? Al Sharpton was there already with 10,000 people… Even if they say no, your responsibility is not to run, but to keep on asking…

    He said God, how can your generation not afford to scream? Did you guys remain silent when Champion was killed…. You did not scream… You did not scream when they called your daughter’s a bunch of hores…
    You did not scream when they said Tiger Woods were going bring collard greens onthe golf course… etc..

    He said to keep on asking… There was a young man by the name of Joshua said that the walls have to come down… He said get all the children of Isreal andwalk around the wall… He asked God can he scream now? God told him to keep walking, ,it’s not time yet… No action, but when he got to the 7th time, he told him that now is the time to scream…

    I pray when you lift up your voice, I pray for your grandchildren’s future.. Lift up your voice until men are let out of prison and our children are not treated like suspects…

    This is your Yes moment… You knew that you were born for such a time as this..

    I just need you to knock down this wall so you will be the last fired and not the first fired… I need you to lift up your voice by faith.. I said this is the last time… We should not even be dealing with this… Lift up your voice,,

    Lift up your hands, I want to pray for you…Whatever has been trying to block your momentum, your child from learning, or what haw been your distraction to spiritual sucees… Lift up your voice… .Whatever has been a consistent block in your family is coming down today… Whetever has been blocking your children and your grandchildren are coming down today.. Lift up your voice… I can’t hear nobody!

    God help me to preach it right… lift up your voice!!!

    I want you right where you are… Hug two or threee peoplel, and tell them that your wall just came down…

    Those of you that are not afraid to be told no… I believe God is going to give you the desires of heart.. He is just trying to develop you….

    I’m in this same spot week after week, and I’m not afraid of being told no… If you ever heard, felt, experienced No before and you pushed your way passed the no… .

    Rejection is good for the soul…. I refuse to take no for an answer…

    You need this kind of church, ministry and fellowship… You need to be surrounded by these kind of people… You no longer fear the word NO!

    Now that you have a resolve in your contencious, I want you to get your swag on… Go talk to somebody and ask the poeple around you, because you are not scared to talk to people no more…

    Please don’t be intimidated by rejection… I need everybody moving and talking, talking and moving…

    GIve God some glory for the sister… God can sove some more people… Make a 360 turn around and ask somebody do they have a church home…. Move and talk to somebody you have not talked to yet.. Ask them are you saved and have a church home…

    You are in the right place at the right time, at the the right church, doing the right thing. Come on and give God some glory even now!

    How many of you know that God sent that word to you right no time… How many of you know somebody that needed this word on today…. I need you to listen to this sermon on more time before you go back to work, apply for that job…
    Pastor Bryant is not scared of the answer No!!!!!

    Song  Selection song:  Come on and bless the Lord with me!!!!

    Write the number down this number to support:  Text Movement to 37284 to support the Trayvon Martin’s family so she can get Justice for her son!  We are one body in Christ Jesus!!!

     

    Dr. Bryant will be on CNN at 7:00 p.m. to talk about the responsibility of the church.. They will broadcasting the march live from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., please tun in live…

     

    Kudos and shot out to the 700 Pastor’s who signed up to wear their hoodies to support the Trayvon Martin’s case.. .It’s all about getting Justice!

     

    Pray for our young people!  They are getting ready to go on the black college tour… All of our children are college material..

    Walk with God and he will walk with  you, build with God, and he will build with you… Etc…
    Dr. Jamal Bryant!  Preach black man… I can’t hear nobody!!!!

     

    Comments from the streaming Live Online:
    I WISH I COULD DONATE BUT DONE IN MY SPIRIT! 1000 DOLLARS DONATED!!
    a few seconds ago
  • PASTOR BRYANT:SOWING A SEED OF:1 THOUSANDlLEAVING 49 THOUSAND ETC…..
    a few seconds ago
  • PASTOR ASKING FOR SPECIAL SEED OFFERING FOR THE ROOF.
    IT WAS DAMAGED MORE THAN THEY KNEW!
    a few seconds ago
  • WHATEVER WALL YOU ARE FACING THIS IS YOUR “YES” MOMENT.THE ENEMIES U SEE TODAY U WILL NEVER SEE AGAIN!!PASTOR:LIFT UP YOUR VOCIE EVERYONE @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINISTRY!!!!!! PRAY!!!! YOUR WALL IS COMING DOWN TODAY!!
    about a minute ago
  • PASTOR LEADS BY EXAMPLE
    about a minute ago
  • PASTOR:RAISING 50 THOUSAND FOR ADDITIONAL ROOF EFFORTS:PLEASE REFER TO THE GIVING TAB SHOULD U DESIRE TO SOW/PLEDGE INTO THIS MINISTRY:PASTOR BRYANT & ET:THANKS YOU FROM OUR HEARTS~AMEN~
    about a minute ago
  • Your wall just came down…!!
    about a minute ago
  • ‎15000 DOLLARS BEFORE EASTER SUNDAY! IT CAN BE DONE!!
    about a minute ago
  • pastor is not scare of no
    about a minute ago
  • God will give you the desires of your heart, just trying to establish the spirit of persistance
    2 minutes ago
  • My Breakthrough is coming!
    2 minutes ago
  • TY FOR SHARING THE PICTURES! THANK GOD AMEN HALLELUJAH!
    2 minutes ago
  • Matthew 7:7 Ask until it happens
    17 minutes ago
  • Its goin down in Matt 7:7
    17 minutes ago
  • And still…no arrests…. Matthew 7…ask for justice…keep on asking
    17 minutes ago
  • Matthew 7
    17 minutes ago
  • Matthew 7:7 Ask for justice until it happen!
    17 minutes ago
  • ask for justice, equality and righteousness
    17 minutes ago
  • SEEKING JUSTICE…
    17 minutes ago
  • MATTHEW 7:7
    17 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:WHY ARE U FLYIN TO:FLORIDA WHEN NUTHINS BEEN DONE YET:BUT I READ:MATTEW 7:THE WORD SAYS:ASK???????
    17 minutes ago
  • MESSED AROUND AND READ MATTHEW 7
    17 minutes ago
  • NO ARREST YET…OH BUT THE GOD THAT LOOKS HIGH
    17 minutes ago
  • MAY JUSTICE BE DONE AMEN!!
    18 minutes ago
  • ZIMMERMEN IS NOT ABOVE THE LAW.
    HE CAN NOT OUT RUN THE HAND OF GOD.
    THERE WILL BE JUSTICES FOR TRYVON MARTIN.
    18 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:NO ARREST AFTER PRES OBAMA:150 THOUSAND SIGN A PETITION:SHIFTED TO STATE PROSECUTERS AND STILL NO ARREST:
    18 minutes ago
  • Ad still…no arrests
    18 minutes ago
  • Still no arrest!!!!
    18 minutes ago
  • ‎450,000 signed the internet petition and still no arrest
    18 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:TRAYVON MARTIN 29 DAYS AGO:WAS WALKIN TO HIS FATHER HOUSE W/ARIZONA TEA NAD A BAG OF SKITTLES ETC…GEORGE ZIMMERMAN AFTER CALLING 411:WAS TOLD TO STAY PUT ETC;BUT INSTEAD HE SHOT THIS YOUNG MAN IN HIS CHEST AND KILLED HIM:WE HAVE HEARD THE 911 TAPES:NO ARREST AFTER 29 DAYS ETC….
    18 minutes ago
  • LETS PRAY FOR THE MARTINS
    18 minutes ago
  • We heard the 911 tapes and a month later no arrests
    18 minutes ago
  • Prayer about to be answered!
    18 minutes ago
  • referring to the Trayvon Martin incident
    19 minutes ago
  • Thank youGod
    20 minutes ago
  • GREETINGS AND WELCOME:TO:
    THE LIVE 730AM(EST) WORSHIP SERVICE WITH DR JAMAL H BRYANT & ET:ALL THREE(3) SERVICES ARE RELEVANT TO:HOODIES ON: IN SOLIDARITY OF:PRINCE TRAYVON MARTIN:WE HAVE THE FAITH THAT CONQUERORS ANYTHING! SIS.BERNARD~PEACEFUL BLESSINGS~(SMILE)~
    20 minutes ago
  • Your prayer is about to be answered
    20 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:I FEEL A RIOT IS ABT TO HAPPEN:THERES GETTING READY TO BE MSG ON UR PHONE:YOUR PRAYERS ARE ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!!!!
    20 minutes ago
  • Its about to be answered!!!
    20 minutes ago
  • V=I=C=T=I=O=R=Y=! THANK U JESUS.. G=L=O=R=Y!
    IT’S ALL ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!
    20 minutes ago
  • AMEN!!
    20 minutes ago
  • VICTORY In JESUS!!!
    21 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:U MAY BE SEATED:MUSICIANS PUT UR FOOT ON THE BREAKS:AS GOD IS MOVIN
    21 minutes ago
  • i get joy win i think about wht the lord has done for me
    21 minutes ago
  • It’s about to happen for me!
    21 minutes ago
  • HALLELUJAH… THANK U JESUS!
    21 minutes ago
  • My prayers is about to be answer, Thank you Lord
    21 minutes ago
  • Someone just your prayed is about to be answered, I disagree. It has already been answered. he woke me up this morning and allowed me to see another day.
    21 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:OPEN UR MOUTH AND GIVE GOD A PRAISE OF VICTORY!!!!
    21 minutes ago
  • It’s going down!!!
    21 minutes ago
  • PREACH IT PREACH IT DEAR!!
    21 minutes ago
  • GIVE GOD GLORYYYY!!!hahahahahahahahahahah
    22 minutes ago
  • I get Joy when I think about what he’s done for me… He picked me up and turned around and placed my feet on solid ground… My prayer is about to be answered!!!
    22 minutes ago
  • I Get JOY when I think about what He’s done for me!!!
    22 minutes ago
  • I never shall forget what HE has done for me!
    22 minutes ago
  • YOUR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!!!! BELIEVE
    22 minutes ago
  • YOUR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED.. YOUR CHILDREN.. FAMILY .. MONEY .. JOB .. HOUSE .. ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED
    22 minutes ago
  • thank you Jesus my prayer is about to be answered . Glory
    23 minutes ago
  • prayers about your money will be answered. prayers about your family are about to be answered!
    23 minutes ago
  • HALLELUJAH PREACH IT BLACKMAN!!
    23 minutes ago
  • Preach Pastor JBryant!!! Having Church before getting to Church!! Hallelujah!! How can you sit there so calm, cool and collected knowing God is getting ready to answer your prayers!!! Jesus!!
    23 minutes ago
  • Prayers about your children, money and family is about the be answered!!!
    23 minutes ago
  • ur prayer is about to answered
    23 minutes ago
  • I am ready!!!!!
    23 minutes ago
  • It took a while, it’s been delayed but in a twinkle of an eye, your prayer will be answered
    23 minutes ago
  • YOUR Prayer is about to be answered in the next 48 hours Thank You Jesus. Thank You Jesus. Preach Black man!
    23 minutes ago
  • Thank you Amen
    23 minutes ago
  • Yes…YES..
    23 minutes ago
  • COME ON HOLY GHOST!!!
    23 minutes ago
  • NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU SHALL BE ABLE TO PROSPER!!
    24 minutes ago
  • IVE NEVER SEEN THE RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN NOR HIS SEED BEGGIN FOR BREAD~UR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED~
    24 minutes ago
  • AMEN
    24 minutes ago
  • thank you lord
    24 minutes ago
  • U DONT KNOW LIKE I KNOW, WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR ME, GLORY!!!!!!!!!!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • THANK U JESUS!!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • I FEEL GOD !!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • MY OLIVE OIL TRAY ON THE TABLE!!
    24 minutes ago
  • Prayer is Already Answered ….Thank You Jesus
    24 minutes ago
  • GLORRRRRY!!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • GLORYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY…!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • PRAISE BREAK @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINISTRY!!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • Preach it like u feel it Blk Man!!!
    24 minutes ago
  • I feel a shout in the house!!
    24 minutes ago
  • My GOD!
    25 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:I NEED SOMEBODY TO:DONT WAIT TIL THE BATTLE IS OVA:SHOUT NOW!!!! LIKE ITS ALREADY ANSWERED!!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • I can’t see anything no feed
    25 minutes ago
  • PRAISE GOD LIKE IT’S ALREADY DONE!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • Halllejuah! Thank ya! Thank ya!
    25 minutes ago
  • God is love. Love must be ASKED. Because love seeks not its own desire. 1Cor. 13 🙂
    25 minutes ago
  • THANK U LORD JESUS…
    25 minutes ago
  • DO IT JESUS!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • GLORYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • Now this is church sho nuf!
    25 minutes ago
  • BE SITTED! IAM AREADY SITTED!! GLORY GLORY!!
    25 minutes ago
  • PASTOR: I FEEL LIKE RUNNING ON TODAY:HOW U ABLE TO ACT SO COLLECTED? HOW DO U CONTAIN URSELF?……GIVE GOD RADICAL PRAISE…
    25 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:GIVE GOD A RADICAL PRAISE @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINSITRY~
    25 minutes ago
  • If you want to SEE an answered prayer…..LOOK IN THE MIRROR!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • God, I can’t hear nobody!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • Prayer about to be answer in the next 48 hours Thank You Jesus. Thank You Jesus. Preach
    25 minutes ago
  • AMEN!!!
    25 minutes ago
  • Yeeaahhhh!!!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • GLORRRRYYYY!!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • HALLELUJAH… GLORY PRAISES BE UNTO GOD!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • yes, thank you lord Jesus
    26 minutes ago
  • Radical Praise to God…!
    26 minutes ago
  • GLORY 2 GOD!!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:GIVE GOD A RADICAL PRAISE @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINSITRY~
    26 minutes ago
  • PREACH IT BLACKMAN!!
    26 minutes ago
  • Yesssssssss!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • YES LORD!!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • NEXT 48 HRS
    26 minutes ago
  • PASTOR: I FEEL LIKE RUNNING ON TODAY:HOW U ABLE TO ACT SO COLLECTED? HOW DO U CONTAIN URSELF?……
    26 minutes ago
  • Come On SOMEBODY!!!
    26 minutes ago
  • ‎!!!!!!!!!!!! OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH
    26 minutes ago
  • I KNOW WHAT A ANSWERED PRAYER IS SUPPOSE TO LOOK LIKE~ASK~
    27 minutes ago
  • God Is Able!!!
    27 minutes ago
  • He’s Able…!
    27 minutes ago
  • Yes He is!
    27 minutes ago
  • Hey may not come when you want him but he will be there right on time! I feel like running on today!!!
    27 minutes ago
  • PREACH, PASTOR BRYANT
    27 minutes ago
  • The most powerful word to mankind is “ASK” ask it’ll be given, seek you shall find, knock it’ll be opened Matthew 7:7
    27 minutes ago
  • Talk to HIM saints, HE”S LISTENING
    27 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:FOR HE IS AN ON TIME GOD:HES ABLE!!!!!
    27 minutes ago
  • JESUS
    27 minutes ago
  • FAVOR!!!!!!!!!! THANK U LORD
    27 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:TELL 3 PEOPLE:IVE NEVA SEEN THE RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN OR HIS SEED BEGGIN BREAD ETC…..
    27 minutes ago
  • MATTHEW 7:7
    IF YOU WANT A PRAYER ANSWERED ASK ME.
    27 minutes ago
  • Just ask God and He will deliver!!!
    27 minutes ago
  • Preach Preacha!!!!!!!
    27 minutes ago
  • ASK ASK ASK ASK ABBA DADDY
    27 minutes ago
  • PR………….EACH BL…..ACK MAN!
    27 minutes ago
  • PROVERBS 21:21
    27 minutes ago
  • hallelujah
    28 minutes ago
  • PASTOR:FOR IVE SEEN GOD OPEN UP A WINDOW AND POURED OUT BLESSINGS!!!!
    28 minutes ago
  • GLORYYYYYYYYYY!!
    28 minutes ago
  • PREACH BLACK MAN!!!
    28 minutes ago
  • If you want a Pray answer just ASK Go for it,
    28 minutes ago
  • PREACH PASTOR BRYANT!!! IVE SEENHIM!!!
    28 minutes ago
  • YES LORD … GIVE HIM GLORY!!!!!!!!!!!1
    28 minutes ago
  • Why did our Lord attend that wedding in Cana? Simply, because He was ASKED. 🙂
    28 minutes ago

    • Post to Facebook

    • TEXT MOVEMENT to: 37284 to give to The TRAYVON MARTIN FAMILY!

      a few seconds ago

    • Let us start saying in the name of Jesus
      Zimmerman is arrested!!!

      a few seconds ago

    • Next service is at 9:30

      a few seconds ago

    • WISHING ALL GOING FOR THE MATCH ALL THE BEST AND GODS PROTECTION!!

      a few seconds ago

    • PASTOR:@4PM:PREACHING AT THE :THE LION OF JUDAH~PRAY FOR HIM AND THE MINISTRY~

      a few seconds ago

    • Love Dr Bryant he is for the lord,and the people

      about a minute ago

    • Have a great week cybersaints! Be Blessed!
      about a minute ago
    • PASTOR:THE YOUTH ARE BOARDING THE BUS:ON BLK COLLEGE TOUR ETC….PRAY FOR THEM~GOD BLESS THE YOUTH!!!
      about a minute ago
    • LOVE GOD FOR HE FIRST LOVED ME!
      about a minute ago
    • The Movement will be Led by the Church, Gllooorrrryyy
      about a minute ago
    • HE NEEDS TO REST!
      2 minutes ago
    • PASTOR BRYANT WILL BE ON CNN W/ANDERSON COOPER @ 7PM TODAY
      2 minutes ago
    • FOR TRAYVON MARTIN TEXT MOVEMENT TO 37284
      3 minutes ago
    • FOR TRAYVON MARTIN TEXT MOVEMENT TO 37284
      3 minutes ago
    • Text MOVEMENT to 37284
      NO GIFT IS TO SMALL.
      FOR TRYVON MARTINS FAMILY!
      4 minutes ago
    • EMPOWERMENT TEMPLE
      7:30AM SERVICE
      DR. JAMAL HARRISON BRYANT
      4 minutes ago
    • TEXT MOVEMENT to: 37284 to give to The TRAYVON MARTIN FAMILY!
      4 minutes ago
    • Text Movement to 37284 to support the Trayvon Martin’s family so she can get Justice for her son! We are one body in Christ Jesus!!!
      4 minutes ago
    • TEXT:MOVEMENT:TO:37284-TRAYVONMARTIN
      4 minutes ago
    • MATT 7:7 KEEP ASKING
      6 minutes ago
    • GOD BLESS
      6 minutes ago
    • SISTER PAM I’LL SEE YOU @ 11:00 SERVICE.
      EVERYONE HAVE A BLESSED MORNING!
      7 minutes ago
    • GOD BLESSES A CHEERFUL GIVER! AND MALACHI 3!!
      8 minutes ago
    • SMILE @ HARGO: I NEED THAT INFO TO…LOL
      8 minutes ago
    • ‎@HARGO:PLEASE GO TO:JAMALBRYANT.ORG;SEND HIM AN EMAIL:HE WOULD LOVE THAT:THANK U FOR THE INFO…ETC….
      9 minutes ago
    • MS. AUDREY CALL THE CHURCH.. ANY HELP IS A BLESSING. THANK U!
      9 minutes ago
    • Wow!!! Look at God!!!
      10 minutes ago
    • AMEN SIS PAM!
      10 minutes ago
    • I Love that Pastor Bryant leads by example
      11 minutes ago
    • Tell Pastor Bryant HE NEEDS to contact GLOBAL GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIP SOLUTIONS to assist with the church projects…Contact ME @ 5865573944
      11 minutes ago
    • THERE IS NOTHING WE HAVE NEVER DEMANDED THAT WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED~ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU WANT/NEED
      11 minutes ago
    • I WISH I COULD DONATE BUT DONE IN MY SPIRIT! 1000 DOLLARS DONATED!!
      11 minutes ago
    • PASTOR BRYANT:SOWING A SEED OF:1 THOUSANDlLEAVING 49 THOUSAND ETC…..
      11 minutes ago
    • PASTOR ASKING FOR SPECIAL SEED OFFERING FOR THE ROOF.
      IT WAS DAMAGED MORE THAN THEY KNEW!
      11 minutes ago
    • WHATEVER WALL YOU ARE FACING THIS IS YOUR “YES” MOMENT.THE ENEMIES U SEE TODAY U WILL NEVER SEE AGAIN!!PASTOR:LIFT UP YOUR VOCIE EVERYONE @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINISTRY!!!!!! PRAY!!!! YOUR WALL IS COMING DOWN TODAY!!
      11 minutes ago
    • PASTOR LEADS BY EXAMPLE
      12 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:RAISING 50 THOUSAND FOR ADDITIONAL ROOF EFFORTS:PLEASE REFER TO THE GIVING TAB SHOULD U DESIRE TO SOW/PLEDGE INTO THIS MINISTRY:PASTOR BRYANT & ET:THANKS YOU FROM OUR HEARTS~AMEN~
      12 minutes ago
    • Your wall just came down…!!
      12 minutes ago
    • ‎15000 DOLLARS BEFORE EASTER SUNDAY! IT CAN BE DONE!!
      12 minutes ago
    • pastor is not scare of no
      12 minutes ago
    • God will give you the desires of your heart, just trying to establish the spirit of persistance
      13 minutes ago
    • My Breakthrough is coming!
      13 minutes ago
    • TY FOR SHARING THE PICTURES! THANK GOD AMEN HALLELUJAH!
      13 minutes ago
    • Matthew 7:7 Ask until it happens
      27 minutes ago
    • Its goin down in Matt 7:7
      28 minutes ago
    • And still…no arrests…. Matthew 7…ask for justice…keep on asking
      28 minutes ago
    • Matthew 7
      28 minutes ago
    • Matthew 7:7 Ask for justice until it happen!
      28 minutes ago
    • ask for justice, equality and righteousness
      28 minutes ago
    • SEEKING JUSTICE…
      28 minutes ago
    • MATTHEW 7:7
      28 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:WHY ARE U FLYIN TO:FLORIDA WHEN NUTHINS BEEN DONE YET:BUT I READ:MATTEW 7:THE WORD SAYS:ASK???????
      28 minutes ago
    • MESSED AROUND AND READ MATTHEW 7
      28 minutes ago
    • NO ARREST YET…OH BUT THE GOD THAT LOOKS HIGH
      28 minutes ago
    • MAY JUSTICE BE DONE AMEN!!
      28 minutes ago
    • ZIMMERMEN IS NOT ABOVE THE LAW.
      HE CAN NOT OUT RUN THE HAND OF GOD.
      THERE WILL BE JUSTICES FOR TRYVON MARTIN.
      28 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:NO ARREST AFTER PRES OBAMA:150 THOUSAND SIGN A PETITION:SHIFTED TO STATE PROSECUTERS AND STILL NO ARREST:
      29 minutes ago
    • Ad still…no arrests
      29 minutes ago
    • Still no arrest!!!!
      29 minutes ago
    • ‎450,000 signed the internet petition and still no arrest
      29 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:TRAYVON MARTIN 29 DAYS AGO:WAS WALKIN TO HIS FATHER HOUSE W/ARIZONA TEA NAD A BAG OF SKITTLES ETC…GEORGE ZIMMERMAN AFTER CALLING 411:WAS TOLD TO STAY PUT ETC;BUT INSTEAD HE SHOT THIS YOUNG MAN IN HIS CHEST AND KILLED HIM:WE HAVE HEARD THE 911 TAPES:NO ARREST AFTER 29 DAYS ETC….
      29 minutes ago
    • LETS PRAY FOR THE MARTINS
      29 minutes ago
    • We heard the 911 tapes and a month later no arrests
      29 minutes ago
    • Prayer about to be answered!
      29 minutes ago
    • referring to the Trayvon Martin incident
      30 minutes ago
    • Thank youGod
      31 minutes ago
    • GREETINGS AND WELCOME:TO:
      THE LIVE 730AM(EST) WORSHIP SERVICE WITH DR JAMAL H BRYANT & ET:ALL THREE(3) SERVICES ARE RELEVANT TO:HOODIES ON: IN SOLIDARITY OF:PRINCE TRAYVON MARTIN:WE HAVE THE FAITH THAT CONQUERORS ANYTHING! SIS.BERNARD~PEACEFUL BLESSINGS~(SMILE)~
      31 minutes ago
    • Your prayer is about to be answered
      31 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:I FEEL A RIOT IS ABT TO HAPPEN:THERES GETTING READY TO BE MSG ON UR PHONE:YOUR PRAYERS ARE ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!!!!
      31 minutes ago
    • Its about to be answered!!!
      31 minutes ago
    • V=I=C=T=I=O=R=Y=! THANK U JESUS.. G=L=O=R=Y!
      IT’S ALL ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!
      31 minutes ago
    • AMEN!!
      31 minutes ago
    • VICTORY In JESUS!!!
      31 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:U MAY BE SEATED:MUSICIANS PUT UR FOOT ON THE BREAKS:AS GOD IS MOVIN
      32 minutes ago
    • i get joy win i think about wht the lord has done for me
      32 minutes ago
    • It’s about to happen for me!
      32 minutes ago
    • HALLELUJAH… THANK U JESUS!
      32 minutes ago
    • My prayers is about to be answer, Thank you Lord
      32 minutes ago
    • Someone just your prayed is about to be answered, I disagree. It has already been answered. he woke me up this morning and allowed me to see another day.
      32 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:OPEN UR MOUTH AND GIVE GOD A PRAISE OF VICTORY!!!!
      32 minutes ago
    • It’s going down!!!
      32 minutes ago
    • PREACH IT PREACH IT DEAR!!
      32 minutes ago
    • GIVE GOD GLORYYYY!!!hahahahahahahahahahah
      32 minutes ago
    • I get Joy when I think about what he’s done for me… He picked me up and turned around and placed my feet on solid ground… My prayer is about to be answered!!!
      33 minutes ago
    • I Get JOY when I think about what He’s done for me!!!
      33 minutes ago
    • I never shall forget what HE has done for me!
      33 minutes ago
    • YOUR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED!!!! BELIEVE
      33 minutes ago
    • YOUR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED.. YOUR CHILDREN.. FAMILY .. MONEY .. JOB .. HOUSE .. ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED
      33 minutes ago
    • thank you Jesus my prayer is about to be answered . Glory
      34 minutes ago
    • prayers about your money will be answered. prayers about your family are about to be answered!
      34 minutes ago
    • HALLELUJAH PREACH IT BLACKMAN!!
      34 minutes ago
    • Preach Pastor JBryant!!! Having Church before getting to Church!! Hallelujah!! How can you sit there so calm, cool and collected knowing God is getting ready to answer your prayers!!! Jesus!!
      34 minutes ago
    • Prayers about your children, money and family is about the be answered!!!
      34 minutes ago
    • ur prayer is about to answered
      34 minutes ago
    • I am ready!!!!!
      34 minutes ago
    • It took a while, it’s been delayed but in a twinkle of an eye, your prayer will be answered
      34 minutes ago
    • YOUR Prayer is about to be answered in the next 48 hours Thank You Jesus. Thank You Jesus. Preach Black man!
      34 minutes ago
    • Thank you Amen
      34 minutes ago
    • Yes…YES..
      34 minutes ago
    • COME ON HOLY GHOST!!!
      34 minutes ago
    • NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU SHALL BE ABLE TO PROSPER!!
      34 minutes ago
    • IVE NEVER SEEN THE RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN NOR HIS SEED BEGGIN FOR BREAD~UR PRAYER IS ABOUT TO BE ANSWERED~
      35 minutes ago
    • AMEN
      35 minutes ago
    • thank you lord
      35 minutes ago
    • U DONT KNOW LIKE I KNOW, WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR ME, GLORY!!!!!!!!!!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • THANK U JESUS!!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • I FEEL GOD !!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • MY OLIVE OIL TRAY ON THE TABLE!!
      35 minutes ago
    • Prayer is Already Answered ….Thank You Jesus
      35 minutes ago
    • GLORRRRRY!!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • GLORYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY…!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • PRAISE BREAK @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINISTRY!!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • Preach it like u feel it Blk Man!!!
      35 minutes ago
    • I feel a shout in the house!!
      35 minutes ago
    • My GOD!
      35 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:I NEED SOMEBODY TO:DONT WAIT TIL THE BATTLE IS OVA:SHOUT NOW!!!! LIKE ITS ALREADY ANSWERED!!!!
      36 minutes ago
    • I can’t see anything no feed
      36 minutes ago
    • PRAISE GOD LIKE IT’S ALREADY DONE!!!
      36 minutes ago
    • Halllejuah! Thank ya! Thank ya!
      36 minutes ago
    • God is love. Love must be ASKED. Because love seeks not its own desire. 1Cor. 13 🙂
      36 minutes ago
    • THANK U LORD JESUS…
      36 minutes ago
    • DO IT JESUS!!!
      36 minutes ago
    • GLORYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!
      36 minutes ago
    • Now this is church sho nuf!
      36 minutes ago
    • BE SITTED! IAM AREADY SITTED!! GLORY GLORY!!
      36 minutes ago
    • PASTOR: I FEEL LIKE RUNNING ON TODAY:HOW U ABLE TO ACT SO COLLECTED? HOW DO U CONTAIN URSELF?……GIVE GOD RADICAL PRAISE…
      36 minutes ago
    • PASTOR:GIVE GOD A RADICAL PRAISE @ CHATROOM/CYBER MINSITRY~
      36 minutes ago

Charities (Red Cross, World Vision, UNICEF, Cancer Society, etc)


In honor of Lenten Season 2012 – “Day 31”

Today we are praying about and discussing “Charities” on today… I want to give a shot out the all the families who may have a child with autism, cancer, leukemia,  etc. or someone in your family that have one of these illnesses..  You develop a greater appreciated for what the above organizations  do…Take the time to contribute your time and/or monetary gifts these types of organizations that are providing for our communities..

Charities 

char·i·ty

1.generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless: to devote one’s life tocharity.
2.something given to a person or persons inneed; alms: She asked for work, not charity.
3.a charitable act or work.
4.a charitable fund, foundation, or institution:He left his estate to a charity.
5.benevolent feeling, especially toward those in need or in disfavor: She looked so poor thatwe fed her out of charity.
6.leniency in judging others; forbearance: She was inclined to view our selfish behavior withcharity.
7.Christian love; agape.
Help Children in Need http://www.mozcause.org/ How can you help? Find out now.
Synonyms:  kindliness, consideration, humanity,benignity, sympathy.
Antonyms:  malevolence.
Charities is always a great word to know.
So is ort. Does it mean:
a children’s mummer’s parade, as on the Fourth of July, with prizes for the best costumes.
a scrap or morsel of food left at a meal.
Dictionary.com Unabridged

Char·i·ty

I  want also acknowledge my good friend (Pastor Bob), Robert Flournoy, that is the President / CEO of Loaves and Fishes x10, which is doing a great work right here in the community  I live in gleaning and providing pantry kitchen’s and many more places fresh fruit and vegetables.  Please check his non profit organization out and feel free to donate your monetary gifts, services and anyway you can contribute to help expand all around the world..

www.loavesandfishesx10.com
 

Here’s this wonderful website I found that I found that has a list of charities from A-Z…

If your local Charity organization is not on this list does not mean that they are not worthy of your

Organizations in its Charity Rating Guide. CharityWatch considers a group’s willingness to provide basic documents to serious donors as an important factor in one’s giving decision. These documents include an annual report, complete audited financial statements, and Internal Revenue Service Form 990, with applicable schedules. Groups which have complied with CharityWatch’s request and sent these documents are marked in the list below by an open book symbol: Open BookNotes:
· Charity names do not link to charities’ web sites from this page.
· The open book graphic is not a link; please see paragraph above.INDEX OF CHARITIES
Click on the first letter of the charity in which you are interested to go to that section.

A
AARP Foundation Open Book
Accion International Open Book
Accuracy in Media Open Book
ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) Open Book
ACLU Foundation Open Book
ActionAid International USA Open Book
Action Against Hunger – USA Open Book
Action on Smoking and Health Open Book
Adoptaplatoon
Africa-America Institute
African Wildlife Foundation Open Book
Africare Open Book
AFS-USA Open Book
AIDS Research Alliance Open Book
Air Force Aid Society Open Book
Alaska Conservation Foundation Open Book
Alley Cat Allies Open Book
Alliance for Retired Americans
ALM International / American Leprosy Missions Open Book
ALS Association – National Office Open Book
ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Open Book
Alzheimer’s Association / Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Disorders Association Open Book
Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a program of the American Health Assistance Foundation Open Book
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Open Book
American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults / American Brotherhood for the Blind
American Association of the Deaf-Blind
American Association of Police Officers
American Association of State Troopers
American Association of State Troopers Scholarship Foundation
American Bird Conservancy Open Book
American Brain Tumor Association Open Book
American Breast Cancer Foundation
American Brotherhood for the Blind / American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults
American Cancer Society Open Book
American Center for Law and Justice / Christian Advocates Serving Evangelism New Listing
American Civil Rights Union Open Book
American Council of the Blind – National Office Open Book
American Diabetes Association Open Book
American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research Open Book
American Farmland Trust Open Book
American Federation of Police & Concerned Citizens
American Forests Open Book
American Foundation for the Blind Open Book
American Foundation for Disabled Children
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Open Book
American Friends Service Committee Open Book
American Health Assistance Foundation Open Book
American Heart Association / American Stroke Association Open Book
American Humane Association Open Book
American Indian College Fund Open Book
American Indian Education Foundation / American Indian Relief Council / Council of Indian Nations / Native American AID / National Relief Charities / Navajo Relief Fund / Sioux Nation Relief Fund / Southwest Indian Relief Council Open Book
American Indian Youth Running Strong / Christian Relief Services Charities Open Book
American Institute for Cancer Research Open Book
American Jewish Committee Open Book
American Jewish Congress
American Jewish World Service Open Book
American Kidney Fund Open Book
American Legion National Headquarters
American Leprosy Missions / ALM International Open Book
American Life League Open Book
American Liver Foundation Open Book
American Lung Association / Christmas Seals – National OfficeOpen Book
American Medical Research Organization / Macular Degeneration Association New Listing
American Near East Refugee Aid Open Book
American Parkinson Disease Association Open Book
American Police and Sheriffs Association / Disabled Police and Sheriffs Foundation / Police Officers Safety Association
American Printing House for the Blind Open Book
American Red Cross Open Book
American Refugee Committee Open Book
American Rivers Open Book
American Social Health Association Open Book
American Stroke Association / American Heart Association Open Book
American Studies Center / Radio America
American Veterans Center, a program of American Studies Center
Americans Feeding Americans / Feed the Children
Americans for UNFPA (formerly U.S. Committee for U.N. Population Fund) Open Book
Americans United for Separation of Church and State Open Book
AmeriCares Open Book
Amnesty International of the U.S.A. Open Book
AMVETS National Headquarters
AMVETS National Service Foundation Open Book
Angel Planes / Miracle Flights for Kids
Animal Legal Defense Fund Open Book
Animal Welfare Institute Open Book
Anti-Defamation League of B’nai B’rith & Foundation Open Book
Arc of the United States – National Office Open Book
Armed Forces Aid Campaign / US Armed Forces Iraq Casualty Appeal / TREA Memorial Foundation
Armed Services YMCA of the USA Open Book
Army Emergency Relief Open Book
Arthritis Foundation Open Book
Asia Foundation Open Book
Asia Society Open Book
Asian American Legal Defense & Education Fund Open Book
Asian Relief / World Villages for Children
ASPCA (American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)Open Book
Associated Humane Societies
Association for Firefighters & Paramedics
Association on American Indian Affairs Open Book
Autism Speaks Open Book
Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation New Listing
Avon Foundation/Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Open Book
Back to IndexB
Bailey House Open Book
Bat Conservation International Open Book
Beckman Research Institute / City of Hope Open Book
Best Friends Animal Society Open Book
Big Brothers / Big Sisters of America – National Office Open Book
Blinded Veterans Association Open Book
B’nai B’rith International / Hillel Foundation
Born Free USA united with Animal Protection Institute Open Book
Bowery Residents’ Committee Open Book
Boy Scouts of America – National Office Open Book
Boys and Girls Clubs of America – National Office Open Book
Boys Town / Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home Open Book
Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence
Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence
Brain and Behavior Research Foundation / NARSAD Open Book
Bread for the World Open Book
Bread for the World Institute Open Book
Breast Cancer Fund Open Book
Breast Cancer Network of Strength
Breast Cancer Relief Foundation / Cancer Center for Detection & Prevention
Breast Cancer Research Foundation Open Book
Breast Cancer Society New Listing
Brookings Institution Open Book
Brother’s Brother Foundation Open Book
Back to IndexC
Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch and Affiliates Open Book
Camp Fire USA – National Office Open Book
Cancer Care Open Book
Cancer Center for Detection & Prevention / Breast Cancer Relief Foundation
Cancer Federation Open Book
Cancer Fund of America / Cancer Support Services Open Book
Cancer Research Institute Open Book
Cancer Support Services / Cancer Fund of America Open Book
CARE Open Book
Caring for Our Children Foundation
Carter Center Open Book
Catalyst Open Book
Catholic Medical Mission Board Open Book
Catholic Relief Services Open Book
CEDARS (Home for Children and Youth Services) Open Book
Center for Biological DiversityOpen Book
Center for Community Change
Center for Constitutional Rights Open Book
Center for Reproductive Rights Open Book
Center for Science in the Public Interest Open Book
Center for Victims of Torture Open Book
Central Asia Institute
Charity: water / Charity GlobalOpen Book
Chesapeake Bay Foundation Open Book
Child Find of America Open Book
Child Welfare League of America Open Book
A Child’s Dream / Youth Development Fund Open Book
A Child’s Wish Foundation / Children’s Charity Fund
ChildFund International (formerly Christian Children’s Fund) Open Book
Childhelp Open Book
Childhood Disease Research Foundation / Optimal Medical Foundation
Childhood Leukemia Foundation
Children Incorporated Open Book
Children International Open Book
Children’s Cancer Assistance Fund / National Children’s Cancer Society Open Book
Children’s Cancer Fund of America
Children’s Cancer Recovery Foundation (formerly Cancer Recovery Foundation of America)
Children’s Cancer Research Fund Open Book
Children’s Charity Fund / A Child’s Wish Foundation
Children’s Defense Fund Open Book
Children’s Food Fund / World Emergency Relief Open Book
Children’s Health Fund Open Book
Children’s Hunger Relief Fund
Children’s Mercy Fund
Children’s Inn at NIH Open Book
Children’s Wish Foundation International
ChildSight / Helen Keller International Open Book
Christian Advocates Serving Evangelism / American Center for Law and Justice New Listing
Christian Appalachian Project Open Book
Christian Foundation for Children and Aging Open Book
Christian Record Services Open Book
Christian Relief Services Charities / American Indian Youth Running Strong Open Book
Christmas Seals / American Lung Association – National OfficeOpen Book
Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Open Book
Church World Service Open Book
Citizens Against Government Waste
City Harvest (New York City) Open Book
City of Hope / Beckman Research Institute Open Book
Coalition Against Breast Cancer
Coalition for the Homeless Open Book
Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes
Committee for Missing Children
Committee to Protect Journalists Open Book
Common Cause Open Book
Common Cause Education Fund Open Book
Compassion & Choices Open Book
Compassion International Open Book
Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) Open Book
Concord Coalition Open Book
Conservation Fund Open Book
Conservation International Foundation Open Book
Council of Indian Nations / American Indian Education Foundation / American Indian Relief Council / National Relief Charities / Native American AID / Navajo Relief Fund / Sioux Nation Relief Fund / Southwest Indian Relief Council Open Book
Cousteau Society Open Book
Covenant House Open Book
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America Open Book
CureSearch / National Childhood Cancer Foundation Open Book
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Open Book
Back to IndexD
Dakota Indian Foundation
Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation Open Book
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute / Jimmy Fund
David Livingstone Missionary Foundation
Defeat Diabetes Foundation Open Book
Defenders of Wildlife
D.E.L.T.A. Rescue Open Book
Delta Society
Diabetes Action Research & Education Foundation Open Book
Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Open Book
Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation
Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International Open Book
Direct Relief International & Foundation Open Book
Disabled American Veterans
Disabled Police and Sheriffs Foundation / American Police and Sheriffs Association / Police Officers Safety Association
Disabled Police Officers of America
Disabled Veterans Association
Disabled Veterans National Foundation Open Book
Doctors Without Borders – USA Open Book
Don Stewart Association / Feed My People / Southwest Indian Children’s Fund
Doris Day Animal League (merged with HSUS) Open Book
Drug Policy Alliance Open Book
Ducks Unlimited Open Book
Back to IndexE
Earth Island Institute Open Book
Earthjustice Open Book
Earthworks Open Book
Easter Seals Open Book
Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee
Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation Open Book
EngenderHealth (formerly AVSC International) Open Book
Entertainment Industry Foundation / Stand Up to Cancer Open Book
Environmental Defense Fund Open Book
Epilepsy Foundation & Research Foundation Open Book
Episcopal Relief and Development Open Book
Back to IndexF
Family Care International Open Book
Farm Aid Open Book
Farm Sanctuary Open Book
Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home / Boys Town Open Book
Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)
Feed My People / Don Stewart Association / Southwest Indian Children’s Fund
Feed the Children / Americans Feeding Americans
Feeding America (formerly America’s Second Harvest) Open Book
FINCA International – National OfficeOpen Book
Fire Victims / Firefighters Charitable Foundation Open Book
Firefighters Support Foundation New Listing
First Candle / SIDS Alliance – National Office
Fisher House Foundation Open Book
Food and Water Watch Open Book
Food Bank for New York City (formerly Food for Survival) Open Book
Food for the Hungry Open Book
Food for the Poor Open Book
Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics Open Book
Fortune Society Open Book
Foundation Fighting Blindness Open Book
Foundation for AIDS Research (formerly AMFAR) Open Book
Foundation for American Veterans New Listing
Foundation for Children with Cancer
Freedom Alliance Open Book
Freedom from Hunger Open Book
Fresh Air Fund Open Book
Friends of Animals Open Book
Friends of the Earth Open Book
Front Range Equine Rescue
Fund for Animals (part of HSUS) Open Book
Fund for Global Human Rights
Futures for Children Open Book
Back to IndexG
Gaia – Movement Living Earth Green World Action USA
Gay Men’s Health Crisis Open Book
Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. – National Office Open Book
Girls, Inc. – National Office Open Book
Give Kids the World Open Book
Glaucoma Foundation
Global Fund for Women Open Book
Global Hunger Project Open Book
Good360 (formerly Gifts in Kind International)
Goodwill Industries International – National Office Open Book
Gorilla Foundation Open Book
Grameen Foundation USA Open Book
Greenpeace, Inc. Open Book
Greenpeace Fund, Inc. Open Book
Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind Open Book
Guide Dogs for the Blind Open Book
Guide Dogs of America Open Book
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Guttmacher Institute Open Book
Back to IndexH
Habitat for Humanity International – National Office Open Book
Hadassah Open Book
Hale House Center & Affiliates Open Book
HealthRight International (formerly Doctors of the World – USA)Open Book
Hearing Health Foundation (formerly Deafness Research Foundation) Open Book
Heart Support of America
Heifer International Open Book
Helen Keller International / ChildSight Open Book
Helen Keller Services for the Blind Open Book
Help Hospitalized Veterans
Heritage for the Blind
Heritage Foundation Open Book
Hillel Foundation / B’nai B’rith International
Hispanic Scholarship Fund Open Book
Hole in the Wall Gang Fund Open Book
Homes For Our Troops Open Book
Hospice Education Institute
Human Rights Campaign
Human Rights Campaign Foundation
Human Rights First (formerly Lawyers Committee for Human Rights) Open Book
Human Rights Watch Open Book
Humane Farming Association Open Book
Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) Open Book
Huntington’s Disease Society of America Open Book
Back to IndexI
In Defense of Animals Open Book
Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund Open Book
Interfaith Alliance Open Book
Interfaith Alliance Foundation Open Book
International Campaign for Tibet Open Book
International Children’s Fund Open Book
International Eye Foundation Open Book
International Fellowship of Christians and Jews Open Book
International Fund for Animal Welfare
International Medical Corps Open Book
International Peace Institute Open Book
International Planned Parenthood Federation – Western Hemisphere Open Book
International Rescue Committee Open Book
Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund Open Book
Islamic Relief – USA
Izaak Walton League of America Open Book
Back to IndexJ
J.A. Worldwide (formerly Junior Achievement) – National OfficeOpen Book
Jane Goodall Institute Open Book
Japan Society
Jewish Funds for Justice
Jewish National Fund Open Book
Jewish War Veterans of the USA Open Book
Jimmy Fund / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Judicial Watch
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International Open Book
K
Keep America Beautiful – National Office Open Book
Kids Wish Network
Back to IndexL
Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund Open Book
LatinoJustice PRLDEF (formerly Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund)
Law Enforcement Education Program
Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund
League of Women Voters Education Fund
League of Women Voters of the U.S.
Learning Ally (formerly Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic) Open Book
Legal Momentum
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Open Book
Lifesavers Open Book
Lighthouse International Open Book
Livestrong (formerly Lance Armstrong Foundation) Open Book
Lupus Foundation of America – National Office Open Book
Lupus Research Institute Open Book
Lutheran World Relief Open Book
Back to IndexM
Macular Degeneration Association / American Medical Research Organization New Listing
Macular Degeneration Research, a program of the American Health Assistance Foundation
Make-A-Wish Foundation Open Book
MAP International Open Book
March of Dimes Foundation Open Book
Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation New Listing
Marine Mammal Center Open Book
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation Open Book
Mays Mission for the Handicapped
MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger Open Book
Media Research Center
Medic Alert Foundation United States
Medical Support Association
Medical Teams International Open Book
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Open Book
Mennonite Central Committee Open Book
Mental Health America (formerly National Mental Health Association) Open Book
Mercy Corps Open Book
Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund Open Book
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research Open Book
Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation
Miracle Flights for Kids / Angel Planes
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Open Book
Ms. Foundation for Women Open Book
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Open Book
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Open Book
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation Open Book
Muscular Dystrophy Association Open Book
Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation
Back to IndexN
NAACP & NAACP Special Contribution Fund Open Book
NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund Open Book
NAMI & Mind of America Foundation Open Book
NARAL Pro Choice America – National Office
NARAL Pro Choice America Foundation – National Office
National 4-H Council Open Book
National Alliance to End Homelessness Open Book
National Anti-Vivisection Society Open Book
National Arbor Day Foundation Open Book
National Association of Chiefs of Police Open Book
National Association of Police Organizations
National Audubon Society Open Book
National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund Open Book
National Breast Cancer Research Center / Walker Cancer Research Institute
National Cancer Center Open Book
National Cancer Coalition
National Caregiving Foundation
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Open Book
National Charity for Cancer Research, a program of Optimal Medical Foundation / Childhood Disease Research Foundation
National Childhood Cancer Foundation / CureSearch Open Book
National Children’s Cancer Society / Children’s Cancer Assistance Fund Open Book
National Children’s Leukemia Foundation
National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare
National Council on Aging Open Book
National Diabetes Fund / Project CURE
National Emergency Medicine Association / National Heart Council / National Stroke Council Open Book
National Federation of the Blind Open Book
National Foundation for Cancer Research Open Book
National Glaucoma Research, a program of the American Health Assistance Foundation Open Book
National Heart Council / National Emergency Medicine Association / National Stroke Council Open Book
National Hemophilia Foundation – National Office Open Book
National Humane Education Society Open Book
National Jewish Health Open Book
National Kidney Foundation Open Book
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Open Book
National Legal Aid & Defender Association
National Military Family Association Open Book
National Multiple Sclerosis Society – National Office Open Book
National Organization for Women (NOW) – National Office Open Book
National Osteoporosis Foundation Open Book
National Park Foundation Open Book
National Park Trust Open Book
National Parkinson Foundation Open Book
National Parks Conservation Association Open Book
National Relief Charities / American Indian Education Foundation / American Indian Relief Council / Council of Indian Nations / Native American AID / Navajo Relief Fund / Sioux Nation Relief Fund / Southwest Indian Relief Council Open Book
National Rifle Association Open Book
National Rifle Association Foundation Open Book
National Right to Life Committee, Inc.
National Right to Life Educational Trust Fund
National Right to Work Committee Open Book
National Right to Work Legal Defense & Education FoundationOpen Book
National Society to Prevent Blindness / Prevent Blindness America Open Book
National Stroke Council / National Emergency Medicine Association / National Heart Council Open Book
National Trust for Historic Preservation Open Book
National Urban League – National Office Open Book
National Veterans Foundation
National Veterans Services Fund
National Vietnam Veterans Committee
National Vietnam Veterans Foundation
National Wildlife Federation Open Book
Native American AID / American Indian Education Foundation / American Indian Relief Council / Council of Indian Nations / National Relief Charities / Navajo Relief Fund / Sioux Nation Relief Fund / Southwest Indian Relief Council Open Book
Native American Heritage Association
Native American Rights Fund Open Book
Natural Resources Defense Council Open Book
Navajo Relief Fund / American Indian Education Foundation / American Indian Relief Council / Council of Indian Nations / National Relief Charities / Native American AID / Sioux Nation Relief Fund / Southwest Indian Relief Council Open Book
Nature Conservancy Open Book
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
NCOA National Defense Foundation
Negative Population Growth
New Israel Fund & Signing Anew Open Book
Noah’s Lost Ark
North Shore Animal League America / Pet Savers Foundation
O
Ocean Conservancy Open Book
Omaha Home for Boys Open Book
Operation Homefront – National Office Open Book
Operation Lookout National Center for Missing Youth
Operation Smile Open Book
Operation USA Open Book
Opportunity International Open Book
Optimal Medical Foundation / Childhood Disease Research Foundation
ORBIS International / Project ORBIS International Open Book
Oxfam-America Open Book
Back to IndexP
Pacific Legal Foundation Open Book
Paralyzed Veterans of America Open Book
Parents Television Council
Parkinson Research Foundation Open Book
Parkinson’s Disease Foundation Open Book
Partners in Health Open Book
The Partnership at Drugfree.org (formerly Partnership for a Drug-Free America) Open Book
Pathfinder International Open Book
PCI – Media Impact Open Book
Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue Open Book
Pearl S. Buck International Open Book
People for the American Way
People for the American Way Foundation
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Open Book
People-to-People Health Foundation / Project HOPE Open Book
Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Open Book
Pet Savers Foundation / North Shore Animal League America
Phoenix House Development Fund Open Book
Phoenix House Foundation Open Book
Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine Open Book
Physicians for Social Responsibility Open Book
PKD Foundation  Open Book
Plan International USA Open Book
Planet Aid
Planned Parenthood Action Fund Open Book
Planned Parenthood Federation of America Open Book
Ploughshares Fund Open Book
Police Officers Safety Association / American Police and Sheriffs Association / Disabled Police and Sheriffs Foundation
Police Protective Fund Open Book
Population Action International Open Book
Population Connection Open Book
Population Council Open Book
Population Services International Open Book
Prevent Blindness America / National Society to Prevent Blindness Open Book
Prevent Cancer Foundation Open Book
Prevent Child Abuse America – National Office Open Book
Prison Fellowship Ministries Open Book
Project Concern International Open Book
Project CURE / National Diabetes Fund
Project HOPE / People-to-People Health Foundation Open Book
Project ORBIS International / ORBIS International Open Book
Proliteracy Worldwide
Prostate Cancer Foundation Open Book
Public Citizen Open Book
Public Citizen Foundation Open Book
Q
No Listings
Back to IndexR
Radio America / American Studies Center
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Open Book
Rainforest Action Network Open Book
Rainforest Alliance Open Book
Reach Out and Read Open Book
Reading is Fundamental Open Book
Red Cloud Indian School
Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice Open Book
Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice Educational Fund Open Book
Research to Prevent Blindness Open Book
Resources for the Future Open Book
ReSurge International (formerly Interplast) Open Book
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Open Book
Ronald McDonald House Charities – National Office Open Book
Rotary Foundation of Rotary International Open Book
Back to IndexS
SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) – National OfficeOpen Book
Salesian Missions
Salk Institute for Biological Studies Open Book
Salvation Army – Central Territory Open Book
Salvation Army – Eastern Territory Open Book
Salvation Army – Southern Territory Open Book
Salvation Army – Western Territory Open Book
Samaritan’s Purse Open Book
San Francisco AIDS Foundation Open Book
Save Darfur Coalition
Save the Children Open Book
Save-the-Redwoods League Open Book
Scholarship America Open Book
Seeing Eye Open Book
Senior Citizens League (TREA)
Seniors Coalition
Seva Foundation Open Book
Shiloh International Ministries
Shriners Hospitals for Children Open Book
SIDS Alliance / First Candle – National Office
Sierra Club Open Book
Sierra Club Foundation Open Book
Simon Wiesenthal Center Open Book
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Cited:  American Institute of Philanthropy:  Reference material in this piece: A to Z Charity Listins
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Etymonline
Word Origin & History

charity

1137, “benevolence for the poor,” from O.Fr.charite, from L. caritas (acc. caritatem)”costliness, esteem, affection” (in Vulgate oftenused as translation of Gk. agape “love” –especially Christian love of fellow man –perhaps to avoid the sexual suggestion of L.amor), from carus “dear, valued,”

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Happy 10th Birthday to my beautiful Niece “Trinity Catera”

I would like to take this opportunity to honor and wish my beautiful niece “Trinity Catera” a very special “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” who is celebrating her 10th birthday on today! Boy, do I wish I could go back to 10-years-old again! (lol).. Nevertheless, May God continue to bless you “Trinity” and crown your head with more knowledge that you may use unto God’s Glory!

I Love you so much,

 

Auntie Nana (Min. Evelyn) & your cousin Justin Larkins

   

Trinity, I pray you have a blessed day, and may God grant you everything that you so desire from him!

“Pastors” – (Leaders in Ministry)

Ephesians 4:11 (NIV) 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists,
the pastors and teachers..

Today, as we embark on our 40th  day of Lenten Season, we are on day 30 and we are praying for Pastors all around the world.  Stop right now and take some time out of your busy schedule and pray for your Leader, your Pastor!

Pastoring, by any means is not an easy job… I know on a first hand basis being that my Father was my Pastor when I joined his church in 1995.  I’ve seen it all in ministry and I’ve heard it all, and yet and still there’s more good, bad and upcoming to be revealed.. We pray all is good, because we serve a tender and loving God who is good to us all!

As a Pastor’s daughter, I saw the joy in it all and I saw the struggles as well. Pastor’s need special and chosen people around them in order to uphold their rightful position.. It’s often that man tends to put Pastor’s on pedal stools, but what man don’t realize is that Pastors are Men-of-God, Men first, then servants of God known as the Under Shepard.  They bleed and hurt just like you..  Just because they are watching over your soul does not mean that they don’t need the sheep to look out for them as well…..  God is over their lives but it sure helps to have somebody down here that you can trust.

Everybody cannot be friend’s with the Pastor… The Pastor spends lot and lots of time alone with God.   It tends to become an isolated job for some Pastor’s.   Most of them have a social life, but for the most part I’ve found most Pastors to live a very discreet life.

To be a Pastors wife is no easy job and it really does take a very understanding and special lady to be ‘First Lady Material”.   She first has to understand who Pastor belongs too.   He first belongs to God number one, his wife  as one as Christ loved the church, and then his family, and then finally his family, church family, friends, colleagues, etc…   His wife must understand that when she step into this roll as First Lady, you will become friend’s to many, but yet and still feel like you have not friend’s and you share your husband with everybody….  Yes, it is the case…  It takes a special God Sendt Woman, A Proverbs 31 Woman  to know the roll of a Pastor, her King.


God’s Under Shepherd -1 Peter 5:1-4 (NKJV)

Shepherd the Flock – 5 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly,[a] not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

Often times, we paint our Pastors as strong  and that’s ok as long as you realize that they have feelings too.. They get depressed too just like you and I.   They are not exempt from the same feelings we feel.   They do the same modalities as we do.  We all are servants of God, but some of us God has placed in position that is highly esteemed.

As most of you know, I have to stop right here and give a shot out to my cyberspace Pastor:  Dr. Jamal H. Bryant…

He is today’s preacher… I can relate to him, his teaching and preaching of the uncut unadulterated Gospel.  He tends to minister directly to our souls leaving us feeling personally connected to God through him.   He made me search deep within myself to find the leader in me that lost somewhere along the way, or should I say, got lost in shuffle… I thank God for this man-of-God for speaking life and restoration back in to my life that seemed so hopeless and broken about 5 years ago… I remember the very first sermon I heard him preached caught my attention on Myspace… “I almost cussed”   During that time, I was struggling with a lot of things… I remember contacting him, and one of his staff members did reply to me… I remember making that sermon my profile picture of the month and in turn, I was his number one friend for a couple of weeks… Boy, did I feel special (lol)…   Not knowing that I would be where I am today because of his intense teachings and preaching that has restored my life through Jesus Christ using him in a might way!   We often say when we see Dr. Jamal Bryant… “Preach Black Man”  I say Preach, Man-of- God”   God sees no color because he preaches and teaches to all man kind…  So on that note, I dedicate this piece right here to the Pastor of the Year:  Dr. Jamal H. Bryant, of Empowerment Temple, Baltimore, Maryland… 

As I did research, I came across this article that caught my eye and the big read pictures says it all….   “Healthy Pastors”

How do you know if your Pastor is spiritually and physically healthy?   Lets explore for a little while with John Cantanzaro, as I have enclosed an article that he wrote…  Cited that “Healthy Pastors is used in this piece for reference material only… http://theresurgence.com/2009/09/12/healthy-pastors-pastors-do-get-depressed

HEALTHY PASTORS: PASTORS DO GET DEPRESSED

John Catanzaro
Healthy Pastors Series [Part 3 of 3]: Click | View SeriesOn the eve of October 19, 1856, Spurgeon commenced services at the Royal Surrey Gardens Music Hall, a popular amusement hall that Spurgeon’s congregation rented when they had outgrown their building and had not completed a new one. During the morning service he preached at New Park Street Chapel on Malachi 3:10: “Prove me now.” With chillingly prophetic voice he declared, “I may be called to stand where the thunderclouds brew, where the lightnings play, and tempestuous winds are howling on the mountain top. Well, then, I am born to prove the power and majesty of our God; amidst dangers he will inspire me with courage; amidst toils he will make me strong… We shall be gathered together tonight where an unprecedented mass of people will assemble, perhaps from idle curiosity, to hear God’s Word; and the voice cries in my ears, ‘Prove me now.’ …See what God can do, just when a cloud is falling on the head of him whom God has raised up to preach to you…”

REASON SHATTERED, DISTRESSED, MINISTRY FLOURISHED

The evening service was held at Surrey Hall, which seated up to twelve thousand and was overflowing with an additional ten thousand people in the gardens. While the evening service was underway, during Spurgeon’s prayer, several malicious people shouted, “Fire! The galleries are giving way!” The panic produced rushes of people. Seven people were trampled to death and twenty-eight were hospitalized with serious injuries.

NEAR THE FURNACE OF INSANITY

Spurgeon (only 22 years old), was carried from the pulpit and taken to a friend’s house where he remained for several days in deep depression. He was so distressed he was unable to preach for several weeks and later said the experience was “sufficient to shatter my reason” and might have meant his ministry “was silenced for ever.” He remarked, “Perhaps never a soul went so near the burning furnace of insanity, and yet came away unharmed.” A friend and biographer commented that his early death may have been the result of this tragedy, “I cannot but think, from what I saw, that his comparatively early death might be in some measure due the furnace of mental suffering he endured on and after that fearful night.” Spurgeon later recounted the agony he went through: “Standing in this pulpit, this morning, I recall to myself that evening of sorrow when I saw my people scattered, like sheep without a shepherd, trodden upon, injured, and many of them killed. Do you recollect how you cried for your minister, that he might be restored to a reason that was then tottering? Can you recollect how you prayed that, out of evil, God would bring forth good, that all the curses of the wicked might be rolled back upon themselves, and that God would yet fill this place with His glory? And do you remember how long ago that is, and how God has been with us ever since, and how many of those, who were injured that night, are now members of our church, and are praising God that they ever entered this hall? Oh! shall we not love the Lord? There is not a church in London that has had such answers to prayer as we have had; there has not been a church that has had such cause to pray. We have had special work, special trial, special deliverance, and we ought preeminently to be a church, loving God, and spending and being spent in His service.”

NOT ERASED FROM MY MEMORY

“I cannot speak, as a grey-headed man, of the storms and troubles which many of you have endured; but I have had more joys and more sorrows, in the last few years, than any man in this place, for my life has been compressed as with a Bramah press—a vast mass of emotion into one year. I have gone to the very bottoms of the mountains, as some of you know, in a night that never can be erased from my memory—a night connected with this place.” Spurgeon’s ministry was vast and people all over the world loved him, but I believe he would have lived longer if his sheep only cared more deeply for his total wellness!

YOUR PASTOR-SHEPHERD FEELS DEEPLY

Your pastors may be built as tough as a Dodge, but I tell you they weep, ache, sweat, agonize, intensely labor and lose sleep over their tribe. They weep over those who are living separate from Christ and labor to keep sheep in healthy pastures away from harmful predators. They sweat to provide nurturing food. They ache and agonize to provide a better way for you and for me. Give them the best of your prayers, service and work—your sacrifices and action of faith will be the aroma of Christ. Learn to appreciate the work of your pastors, and when they don’t seem to meet the mark don’t just throw them in the trash compactor with the hopes that they will see things your way after the battering is done. Give way to grace, for we all have our down days and it’s good to have a friend in our corner to give us the light of reason when we need it most! Lift up your pastors!

Now here is some food for thought:  This is another enclosed article and blog I found very interesting as well you can view that talks about Timothy Charged to oppose false Teachers… It’s a lot of that going on all around the world… But when you are grounded and anchored in Jesus… You know God for your self!!!

Cited:  The reference for Critical concerns for Pastoral Ministry:  material is from bible.com – http://bible.org/article/critical-concerns-pastoral-ministry-1-timothy-13-7

 

“Critical Concerns for Pastoral Ministry (1 Timothy 1:3-7)

1 Timothy 1:3-7  (NIV)

Timothy Charged to Oppose False Teachers

3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith. 5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 6 Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk. 7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.

 

Critical Concerns for Pastoral Ministry (1 Timothy 1:3-7)

Study By: J. Hampton Keathley, III

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Introduction

Life is obviously filled with critical concerns and no place is this more evident than in the pastoral responsibilities God has entrusted to the leadership of church. Because of the work of the adversary, these concerns have existed from the very early days of the church, but in view of Paul’s warnings in 2 Timothy 3 regarding the increase of apostasy in the last days and what we are seeing today in the church, Paul’s instructions to Timothy in 1 Timothy 1:3-7 are tremendously significant. These instructions are pastoral in nature and reveal what might be called critical concerns for pastoral ministry. These are matters important to the leadership themselves and to the well being of the flock of God as a whole. Obviously, there are many more concerns dealt with throughout those epistles we generally call, the ‘pastoral epistles’ (1 & 2 Timothy and Titus). Since these instructions deal specifically with pastoral concerns and since 1 Timothy is the first of the three pastoral epistles, a word is in order with regard to the nature and scope of the pastorals.

The Nature and Scope of the Pastoral Epistles

The Term Pastoral Epistles

The term pastoral epistles has been used to designate the three epistles or letters addressed to Timothy and Titus (1 & 2 Timothy, and Titus). Though addressed to individuals, they are not limited to personal and private communications since they were addressed to these men to guide them in matters concerning the church of Jesus Christ and its pastoral care (cf. 1 Tim. 3:15 with 2 Tim. 2:2). The term “pastoral” refers to the familiar biblical image of shepherds caring for their flock of sheep, an incredibly rich figure designed to portray two important images: (1) the bewilderment and helpless of mankind, and (2) God and His loving care to bring lost sheep into His pasture and care for them like a shepherd. The church, of course, is God’s flock with the Lord Jesus as the Good, Chief and Great Shepherd (John 10:111 Pet. 5:4Heb. 13:20; ), but from within His flock He raises up leaders who are to act as under-shepherds. To them has been give the responsibility of leading, protecting, feeding, and caring for His sheep (Acts 20:28Eph. 5:121 Pet. 5:2-3).

This term “pastoral” is an 18th century designation which has endured down through the years because it is fitting though not entirely accurate. It is accurate in that these epistles are primarily devoted to church order and its life and function. It is inaccurate only in the sense that Timothy and Titus were not pastors in the present-day sense of the term. All in all, however, the content of these books are pastoral in nature whether they deal with personal matters or the corporate ministry of the church. They give directions that have both a personal and corporate flavor necessary for the care, conduct, order, ministry, and administration of churches or assemblies of believers.

In summary we can say that these books were designed by God to aid us in our pastoral responsibilities, organic development and organization, and shepherd care for local flocks (see 1 Tim. 3:14).

Their Place in the Canon of Scripture

In this regard there is a significant point that should, I believe, be noted. The pastorals were the last books written by Paul, the very last. Now why is that important? Since these books deal with church order, organization, and ministering to the church in pastoral care, why not write them first? If you or I were doing this, we would probably first try to get the administrative organization in order (the structure) and then worry about the doctrine. This is the priority in many if not most churches today. It seems a lot of people think that if you have the constitution and the church organized properly, then everything will run smoothly, but it that really so?

Some suggestions to think about:

(1) If the emphasis we see in the chronological development of Paul’s epistles is taken as a model, church order is not the most fundamental priority; doctrine is. Certainly, the church is an organic body made up of many parts and each believer is a member with a special function and task to carry out in an orderly way, but the primary essential for the church is right theology through consistent Bible-based teaching. This is teaching that is designed to lead to an understanding of the Word and its careful application via the ministry of the Spirit of God. This provides us with the spiritual and moral foundation on which we should base the methods, strategy, and administration or organization to be used in the local church. This not only gives us the right foundation, but it provides the spiritual motivation and ability to function in the power of God. Yet, as will be seen in this study, all doctrinal teaching needs to be guided by biblical goals. While our methods will vary, they must never contradict the moral or spiritual principles of the Word.

As an illustration let’s consider the issue of giving. Giving is a corporate and individual responsibility, but our giving and the collection of money should be so done that it does not violate biblical or spiritual principles. The thrust of the New Testament is that giving is to be the product of the leading of the Spirit and one’s personal relationship with Christ. It is to be voluntary and never the result of the methods that employ coercion or manipulation (see 1 Cor. 16:1f; 2 Cor. 8-9).

(2) The organic and unified growth of a church (organization) should be based on sound doctrinal teaching that is based on rightly handling the Word (2 Tim. 3:15). It is God’s objective truth along with the selection of those who are spiritually right with God and qualified that leads to effective churches by God’s standards (1 Tim. 3:1f).

When churches seek to operate an organization based on tradition or background and attempt to use people who are not truly qualified spiritually, they end up with an organization that may appear successful from the world’s standards, but it will not be successful according to God’s standards as found in Scripture. It will lack the foundation, true spiritual enablement, and capacity to fulfill the biblical model.

Oswald Sanders, in his classic book on leadership entitled Spiritual Leadership, has an important note in this regard.

The true spiritual leader is concerned infinitely more with the service he can render God and his fellowmen than with the benefits and pleasures he can extract from life. He aims to put more into life than he takes out of it.1

The greatest need is not for leaders, but for saints and servants. Unless that is held in the foreground of our thinking, the whole idea of leadership and leadership training becomes dangerous.2

The pastoral epistles do, of course, deal with matters of church order or ecclesiology not hitherto addressed in the other epistles, but before God ever gave the church directions for organization or order as specific as those we find in the pastorals, he gave us Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians—His instructions for godly living through faith in the Lord Jesus.

Is this because organization is unimportant? Certainly not! But may I suggest He gave us the other epistles first because: (a) organization and administration are not primary; they are secondary, and (b) because it is sound teaching that promotes true spirituality which ultimately results in ministries that are biblically effective and that manifest the spirit and character of Christ in ministry and outreach.

(3) Some areas of ecclesiology are more difficult to determine than others. As a result, students of the Word have debated certain issues for years like: (a) what is the exact form of government churches should have? or (b) how do we select and appoint men to leadership? or (c) how much authority are the elders to have?, and (d) how much authority is the congregation to have? Does this mean we should not carefully study these issues looking for biblical answers and then come to conclusions based on our study of the facts of Scripture as we can best understand them? Of course not; we should obviously seek God’s mind on these matters. But the point is, regardless of the type of church government (within certain limits), if God’s Word is being consistently and accurately proclaimed with prayerful dependence on the Lord, and if the people take it to heart, a church will become alive, vital, and experience the touch of the living Christ on its ministry.

The Practical and Sound Doctrine Emphasis of the Pastoral Epistles

While the pastorals do deal with the local church and its conduct and organization, they are also intensely practical and contain a strong emphasis on sound doctrine. The pastorals are primarily practical rather than theological, but the doctrinal emphasis lies more on the defense of sound doctrine than on its development, explanation, or elaboration.

Thus, the emphasis is more on: (1) holding to sound doctrine, the doctrine already received as in Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, etc. (this is stressed at least 10 to 12 times in one way or another in the pastorals, and (2) on the practical outworking of that doctrine in an individual and in the corporate life of the church.

How does Paul seek to promote both of these areas—sound doctrine and its practical outworking in these epistles? The pastorals are written to promote the maintenance of sound doctrine and practical Christian living through faithful, biblical pastoral care and through ministries that function according to the biblical and spiritual principles of these books.

The organic development of a church is important, but its capacity to do its job rides on a firm foundation of theology and the spirituality of its people. This is nowhere more evident than in Paul’s opening words to Timothy as he brings up what we might call critical concerns for biblical pastoral care. First and Second Timothy are loaded with concerns about certain spiritual needs, qualifications, and behavior that should characterize any church’s ministry and pastoral leadership. However, the focus of this study will be devoted to several key concerns that need to be addressed by every church leader and Bible believing church.

First Critical Concern:
Staying Power
(1:3a)

1:3 As I urged you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus …3

While many of the historical details are sketchy, verse 3a refers to a visit Paul made to Ephesus after his release from prison in Rome. While in Ephesus Paul evidently found serious conditions because the rise of false teachers, just as he had previously warned the Ephesians elders (Acts 20:28f). Though he felt the leading of God to go on to Macedonia, his concern for the false teachers at Ephesus caused him to strongly appeal to Timothy to stay in Ephesus in order to deal with this problem. So, the first concern the apostle addressed, and admittedly this is only by implication, is suggested by his words of exhortation, “As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus.”

There are evidences here that suggest Timothy may have originally shown signs of reluctance or at least a fearfulness to stay in the battle at Ephesus, perhaps because of his youth or simply because of the nature of what he was facing in Ephesus from the false teachers. Two things here suggest the apostle was challenging Timothy to hang tough and stay the course. First, we can conclude from these words that this is the second time Paul had to urge young Timothy to stay on at the task assigned to Him by the apostle. Further, the word used, “remain on,” is prosmeno, a slightly intensive compound of the simple verb, meno, “to abide, remain.” He did not simply tell him to “remain” (meno), but “remain on, continue longer” (prosmeno) and this is related to the phrase, “just as I urged you” (parakaleo, “appeal to, urge, exhort.” Other appeals made to Timothy by the apostle in 1 and 2 Timothy suggest that here Paul is encouraging Timothy to hang tough to avoid burnout or leaving the very difficult task assigned to him (1 Tim. 1:18-19; 4:6f; 2 Tim. 1:5-8; 2:1ff; 2:24f; 3:1f; 4:1f). Thus, knowing Timothy’s leaning in this direction or simply knowing the nature of the pressures of ministry, Paul wrote not only to instruct but to encourage and fortify. We might paraphrase, “Just as I urged you to stay on before, so now I appeal to you again to remain on, to hang in there in spite of your fears, feelings of inadequacy, or in spite of the nature of the problems you are facing.

Opposition, hardships of various sorts and difficulties go with the territory of ministry in a fallen world. Just as Daniel tells us that the walls of Jerusalem would be rebuilt in times of distress, so Paul warned Timothy and us that “in the last days difficult (kalepos, “hard, stressful, dangerous”) times would come” (2 Tim. 3:1). Ministry is often tough and filled with hardships and pressures, and sometimes the tendency is to run away. That seems the only logical solution. Those in pastoral care may simply feel, “Oh well, what’s the use. This is like trying to climb a greased pole!”

But the apostle did more than simply tell Timothy to remain. There is encouragement and motivation found throughout 1 Timothy to fortify Paul’s appeal? What lessons, then, can we learn from these epistles that provide us with the needed fortification and stability in both finding and following through on what God has called us to do?

The principles for staying power I will suggest in what follows, come from Paul’s various instructions in the pastoral epistles. They are naturally inter-related, yet each principle is distinct and forms a part of the whole picture.

(1) The Principle of Purpose. The first suggestion is found for us in verse 3 and the words beginning with “in order that…” This is a purpose clause that immediately pointed Timothy to the purpose of remaining on. Certainly it is only one purpose in the sphere of a larger overall purpose for Timothy as a teacher of the Word, but it suggests the necessary truth of purposeful living—having an adequate purpose for life that gives one a sense of destiny and meaning for living. Purposeful living comes from recognizing God’s call and will for one’s life. Having an adequate reason and goal for life and for pressing on becomes tremendously motivational as the apostle later delineates in 2 Timothy 2:1ff with the illustrations of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer.

Each purpose God has for us, as with this charge to Timothy, has its own special motivation. In keeping with the work of shepherds, Timothy was to provide a protection and a defense for others against false teaching by dealing with these teachers. This could mean the deliverance of these teachers as well as a protection for others in keeping with the call and responsibility we have of loving one another as children of God. In other words, the motive of love for others by what he was doing formed an added incentive and objective for the purpose of his life—the motive of love (cf. 1:3-5; 4:1f; 2 Tim. 4:1f).

If our lives and ministries are motivated by selfish desires like praise, recognition, success (i.e., self-love), then we have a totally inadequate and empty reason for living and we simply will not be able to endure the varied hardships, criticism, and the battles that come along (cf. 1 Thess. 2:3f).

(2) The Principle of Stewardship. Also associated with the principle of purpose that the apostle focuses on later in this epistle is the concept of stewardship—being good stewards of the gifts and abilities God gives us. A stewardship is something which belongs to another but is given to someone as a trust for management on which a return is expected. This includes: (a) Accepting the fact of spiritual gifts and those gifts as stewardship trusts from God.4 (b) Recognizing and accepting the responsibilities our gifts demand—we will each be held accountable.5 (c) Confirmation of those gifts by the body of Christ is another important element of motivation and encouragement. So Paul will also remind Timothy of this in 1 Timothy 1:18 and 4:14.

Further motivation for “remaining on” as good stewards is found in 1:19, “keeping faith and a good conscience.” In the context in which this is said this means two things: (a) To fail to follow through on God’s call and the trust given to us, is to act in unbelief. It is to fail to believe God and trust Him and His wisdom, purposes, promises, and provision. It is to fail to believe in heavenly treasures and to live accordingly. May we remember thatwhat God has called us to do, He has gifted us to do; and what He has gifted us to do, He has called us to do in some capacity and to some degree. To fail to act on this is to act in unbelief. (b) It also means that if we fail to get involved with some form of ministry according to our gifts or to endure with the ministry God has given us, we have to live with a bad conscience. This means we end up living in awareness of the fact we aren’t doing what God has called us to do. So what should we do? Our options are twofold: First, we can face and confess the fact and deal with it—the goal is to have a conscience void of offence (1 Tim. 1:5Acts 23:1; 24:16; 2 Cor. 1:12; 4:2). Second, we may opt for all kinds of rationalizations, cover ups, and excuses to avoid fulfilling our stewardship. If we go for this second option, then we end up hardening or searing our conscience (2 Tim. 1:31 Tim. 4:22 Cor. 4:2).

Paul later reminded Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:6 that to fulfill our calling, to use our gifts in faithful service regardless of the trials, means we become “good servants of Christ Jesus.” To run away and make excuses is to become a servant of our own selfish desires, fears, and false values. It is to be no servant at all of the Lord (cf. Demas in 2 Tim. 4:10).

(3) The Principle of Personal Spiritual Nourishment. In 1 Timothy 4:6b-7 Paul points us to one of the keys of endurance—a spiritually nourished life, one that is nourished up on the words of the faith, i.e., the Word. It is impossible to remain faithful to our stewardship, if we are not feeding our own souls and being fed on the Word. The contrast brought out in these two verses should drive this home forcefully: listening to God’s Word (vs. 6b) versus listening to men and their ideas (vs.7a). Nourishing one’s life involves godly disciplines (1 Tim. 4:7b-8). This means the spiritual disciplines by which we grow and mature in the things of Christ. It is these disciplines that produce maturity, strength, wisdom, and faithful service from the right motives. This includes—prayer, Bible study (private and corporate), Scripture memory, Bible reading, fellowship with believers who mean business with Christ, and even discipling others.

(4) The Principle of Maintaining a Heavenly Hope—Living as Sojourners (cf. 1 Tim. 4:4:8b-9; 6:6, 7, 17-19; Tit. 2:11-131 Pet. 1:13f). One of the consistent themes of Scripture is the truth that this life is passing away and that our primary citizenship as believers in Christ is in heaven, from which we are to look for the Savior (Phil. 3:20-21). As citizens of heaven, we are only here on temporary assignment as sojourners or pilgrims who are to live in this life with a view to laying up treasures in heaven (Matt. 6:19f). Coupled with this are the many promises of rewards that will be given for faithful service in the epistles. Demas deserted the apostle Paul in ministry and the reason given is that he loved this present world (2 Tim. 4:10). Only a heavenly hope will keep our values, priorities, and pursuits where they need to be.

(5) The Principle of Maintaining Biblical Motives and Goals. Another means to encourage staying power is the responsibility to have and maintain biblical motives and goals for ministry. Living for God’s glory rather than for the praise of men or personal gain in this life is crucial (cf. 1:5, 17). This will become the third critical concern discussed below where more will be said on this issue. For the moment, however, note the force of the appeal in 6:11-12: The negative flee (vs. 11a) is quickly followed by the positive, pursue godliness (vs. 11b) andfight the good fight and take hold of eternal life (vs. 12). Goal oriented living, like having an eternal perspective mentioned previously, has a powerful influence on one’s life.

Second Critical Concern:
False Teachers and Their Teaching
(1:3b)

1:3 As I urged you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus to instruct certain people not to spread false teachings, 1:4 nor to occupy themselves with myths and interminable genealogies. These promote useless speculations rather than God’s redemptive plan that operates by faith.

The second problem Timothy faced, and one we continually face as the church seeks to maintain its witness in a fallen world, is that of false teaching and the endless variety of strange doctrines, fads, and ideas. It seems there is no end to these strange doctrines that are always clamoring for our attention and seeking entrance into the thinking of the body of Christ. This is no small problem because it is often so very subtle. They are called “strange” in that they are contrary to Scripture.

The Challenge Before Timothy: An Explanation of the Problem

According to 1 Timothy 1:3b; 4:1-8; and 6:3-5, 20-21, there were false teachers creeping into the church at Ephesus. Their doctrine is described and characterized by Paul as:

(1) Strange or hetero doctrines (vs. 3b). “Strange doctrines” is the Greek word, heterodidaskaleo, fromheteros, “another of a different kind” (not just another), and disdaskaleo, “to teach, instruct.” “Strange doctrines” are doctrines of a different kind, teachings not in keeping with the divine and infallible standard of the revelation of God in Scripture or the revelation of God in the person and work of Jesus Christ. In the final analysis, this means deviating from biblical standards either in content, nature, scope, or aim (1:5, 11; Tit. 1:9).

(2) Myths, consisting of endless genealogies (vs. 4a). One might think “myths” and “endless genealogies” refer to two different things, but in reality this is a two-fold description of the same aberration or heresy. Myths looks at the nature of their teaching and endless genealogies at the content.

In nature they are myths. Myths is the Greek, muthos. In its widest sense, muthos means “word, speech, conversation,” but then it came to refer to, “the mere talk of men, rumor, report, or a story or tale.” Finally, it came to be used of an invention of the minds of men—a fiction, a falsehood, a myth. It contrasts the human ideas and perspectives of man with the divine perspective of God. One is myth and one is truth. One is likened to “old wives tales” and what is useless (4:7), the other to what is God breathed and profitable… (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

In content they were first of all endless genealogies. “Endless” is the Greek aperantos from peras, “a limit or terminus, end,” and the negative alpha prefix which negates the word with which it is connected. It means “without limits or without end,” i.e., without biblical controls. (a) This could refer to the content, i.e., there is no end to these tales and to the human viewpoint legends of man when he is without the index of the divine Word of God. Without the objective and absolute authority of God’s Word, there is no terminus or restriction on the ideas of man and his endless philosophical and religious speculations. (b) Or this could refer to the goal, objective or aim, i.e., man’s myths (human viewpoint) are ultimately useless and futile. They can’t even attain unto man’s own goals, much less are they capable of furthering “the administration of God” (vs. 4b). Both concepts are certainly true.

Further, in content their teaching consisted of endless genealogies, though based on real characters in Old Testament genealogical tables. These teachers were teaching mythological stories. They would then develop doctrines based on these tales and mingle this with the Word. In addition, they were what we might call ‘fad teachers’ with novel or sensational doctrines which appealed to people with itching ears who wanted to hear something new, something different, or something sensational or strange (see Acts 17:212 Tim. 4:3-4).

The Challenge Before Us: Illustrations of the Problem

In our world today we face the various cults with their false, heretical, mythological, and fad-like teachings. Then we see others with an emphasis on certain spiritual gifts so that (though claiming to be evangelical) they teach and advocate a different message because it distorts the main focus of Scripture and true spiritual maturity. In addition, there are fads and caricatures of doctrine being taught. Unless we are careful, we can all be guilty of this in our ministries and fail to minister the Word appropriately and effectively. But what is meant by this? By fads, I am talking about jumping on the contemporary bandwagon of ideas that permeate the present theological scene rather than seeking to proclaim the whole council of the word with, of course, proper application to the contemporary problems and needs of people.

As Walter Kaiser warns in his book, Toward and Exegetical Theology, we must guard against, “…mixing the Word with such foreign elements as civil religion, current philosophies, schools of psychology, political affiliations, and personal predilection.” To do so, as he goes on to point out, “is to take the powerful Word of God and to make it ineffective, weak, and despised in the eyes of our contemporaries.”6

And, as Paul shows us in this passage, to do so is to produce speculations and fruitless discussions rather than the furtherance of God’s stewardship or work and the sure convictions of faith that are based on the reliable and God-breathed Word (see 1:4, 6 and 2 Tim. 3:16).

By caricatures we are talking about majoring in the minors and minoring in the majors, about unbalanced teaching, and riding ‘hobby horses.’ Concerning this Spurgeon warned,

A man’s nose is a prominent feature in his face, but it is possible to make it so large that eyes and mouth, and everything else are thrown into insignificance, and the drawing is a caricature and not a portrait: so certain important doctrines of the gospel can be so proclaimed in excess as to throw the rest of truth into the shade, and preaching is no longer the gospel in its natural beauty, but a caricature of the truth…”7

The Causes of Defection

Why does doctrinal defection and false teaching occur? The following is a brief overview of some of the causes that I trust will pose a warning to all of us.

(1) Failure to accept and or adhere to the Bible as our index and absolute guide for belief and practice (1:11; 4:6; 6:3; 2 Tim. 1:13,14; 3:10f). Note especially 1:4 with 4:6, 13; 2 Timothy 3:16.

(2) The misuse of the Bible through poor study habits, poor training, and faulty methods of exegesis. This often results in fads and novel interpretations and shallow teaching (2 Tim. 2:15).

(3) Failure to relate all our teaching and Bible study to God’s design and purpose. That design is true spirituality that produces godliness and changed lives according to the standards of scripture rather than one’s own personal bias or personal agendas (1:5; 4:6,7; 6:6f; Tit. 1:5).

(4) Moral failure and hypocrisy—teaching and religious activity that stems from ungodly goals and aspirations (1:7; 4:2; 6:1-8; Jude 42 Pet. 2:103 John 9-11Ps. 50:7-23Isa. 29:13).

(5) Spiritual carelessness—presuming upon the Lord or failure to take one’s spiritual life and God’s Word seriously (2 Cor. 10:1-13Eph. 5:14f; 1 Tim. 1:6; 4:6,15).

(6) Giving into the pressures of those who want their ears tickled and who aren’t really interested in digging into the Word. (1 Thess. 2:3-62 Tim. 4:1-4 [note the connection with Paul’s challenge in vss 1-2 and 3-4]).

The Charge to Timothy and the Cure for the Problem

1:3 As I urged you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus to instruct certain people not to spread false teachings.

The Nature of the Charge

The nature of the charge is seen in the words, “in order that you may instruct.” “Instruct,” translated “command” in the NIV is the Greek, parangello, “to charge, command, give orders, pass on commands from one to another, or to instruct authoritatively.” It clearly implies authoritative instruction (see 1 Tim 4:11; 5:7; 6:13, 17).

Timothy was an apostolic representative of Paul and he, by the authority of Paul, was to deal with these teachers through Paul’s instructions and the truth he already knew. If they ignored Timothy’s teaching and his charges, based on Scripture and the apostolic tradition, they would be disobeying what was equivalent to God’s Word. This is equivalent to the proper use of Scripture (not prooftexts taken out of context) to instruct others in the Bible, which is our authority in faith and practice. Likewise, when we accurately teach the Word, we are teaching that which carries God’s authority, not because we have said it, but in so far as it accurately represents God’s Word. That authority, however, lies in the message, not in the man.

The Content of the Charge

What exactly was Timothy told to do? As a leader and communicator of the Word, Timothy was responsible to do two things:

(1) Based on the authority of God’s truth, Timothy was to carefully instruct the false teachers. He was to show that their teaching was biblically wrong and out of line with the standards and goals of God’s revelation. Certainly this was to be done in the spirit of love, but surely it was to be done firmly and specifically. He was not to ignore the problem nor side step it. A lot of leaders are adept at stepping around issues. (See also 2 Tim. 2:24f).

(2) His instruction naturally included the charge to stop paying attention to false teaching, which is one of the causes and sources of drifting away. The words, “occupy themselves with,” (NET), “pay attention,” (NASB) or “devote” (NIV), means “to turn one’s mind to,” and thus, “to give heed to, attach one’s self to, to become occupied with.”

There is an obvious concern here that we must see. They had occupied their minds with doctrinal fads and the ideas of men rather than the clear absolutes of the Word (cf. 4:13f). This is strongly stressed in 1:4 as well as in other parts of the pastorals (cf. 4:6,15; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:14; 4:3-4). The standard and the focus of our thinking and preaching must be the authoritative and infallible word of truth. It is imperative that we all recognize that it is this. It is the faithful, exegetical study and communication of the Word with its careful application that protects us from the many delusions of Satan. It is this that builds sure conviction and confidence of the truth into the people of God enabling them to know what is to be believed and why (cf. 4:1-5 with 6f).

Kaiser writes, and I think correctly,

Those sermons whose alleged strength is that they speak to the contemporary issues, needs, and aspirations often exhibit the weakness of a subjective approach. In the hands of many practitioners, the biblical text has been of no real help either in clarifying the questions posed by modern man or in offering solutions … the biblical text often is no more than a slogan or refrain in the message. What is lacking in this case is exactly what needs to be kept in mind with respect to every sermon which aspires to be at once both biblical and practical: it must be derived from an honest exegesis of the text and it must constantly be kept close to the text.8

But why is this so important? Because it is the Bible that is true and accurate and thus authoritative and powerful. It alone has the right, by its divine origin, to persuade men. Otherwise we become manipulated by preachers who play upon and exploit people’s emotions, fears, and cravings for personal and selfish ends.

Furthermore, the tendency today is to appeal to the itching ears of audiences, and cater to their desire to be entertained because speakers want to be popular. So, pastors, conference speakers and the like, as Kaiser again warns us often reward their audiences,

…with repetitious arrangements of the most elementary truths of the faith, constant harangues which are popular with local audiences, or witty and clever messages on the widest-ranging topics interspersed with catchy and humorous anecdotes geared to cater to the interests of those who are spiritually lazy and do not wish to be stirred beyond the pleasantries of hearing another good joke or story. Where is that sense of authority and mission previously associated with the biblical Word?9

In other words, where is an exegetical and authoritative exposition of the Word so that people may know this is God’s truth, and not merely some preachers agenda?

Obviously, the solution or the cure to false teaching and the things that cause it is to counter both the problem and the cause with the appropriate biblical exposition or instruction from the text of Scripture. This will only occur when we recognize the Bible as our final authority and submit our lives completely to God’s plan for learning, proclaiming, and applying it to every area of life.

Third Critical Concern:
Understanding and Pursuing Biblical Goals
(1:4-5)

1:4 nor to occupy themselves with myths and interminable genealogies. These promote useless speculations rather than God’s redemptive plan (or stewardship) that operates by faith. 1:5 But the aim of our instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.

The Goal or Aim of Promoting the Stewardship of God which is by Faith (1:4)

Part of the charge to Timothy was to instruct the false teachers against being occupied with what amounts to man’s religious speculations. Here we see the reason and the reason is not only related to the futility of such speculation, but to the need for pursuing biblical goals. The goals mentioned in this text are two-fold: that which promotes God’s redemptive plan or the stewardship of promoting the message of Christ, and that which is to be the result of accurate biblical teaching—Christian (agape) love.

The apostle focuses on the utter fruitlessness of the varied religious speculations of men. Such results are seen in the words, “which give rise to mere speculation…” (vs. 4) and “fruitless discussion” (vs. 6). “Which” in the Greek text is the qualitative pronoun hostis and means “which by their very nature.” The pronoun looks back to the false teaching consisting of myths and endless genealogies. “Give rise,” is parecho and means “to cause, promote, give occasion for.” The point and emphasis is that by the very nature of man’s subjective ideas or by the very nature of those ministries that are based on sketchy and inadequate handling of Scripture, the result will be “mere speculation and fruitless discussion” in both teacher and student. They are subjective and fruitless because they represent teaching that is not based on the objective standard of the God breathed Word of Truth (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Failure to use and handle the Scripture accurately leads not only to what is useless, but actually hinders the work of God. But why?

First, it causes “speculations” (vs. 4) and “fruitless discussions” (NASB) or “controversies” (NIV) (vs. 6). “Speculations,” the Greek word, ekzetesis,” is used only here, but in this context it must refer to “laborious, out of the way studies into the ideas of men” rather than the careful investigation of Scripture. This refers to futile human speculations, looking at statistics, ever learning, but never able to come to the truth (2 Tim. 3:7) because, ignoring God’s truth, men are being tossed back and forth in an ocean of man’s thoughts and ideas (Isa. 55:8Eph. 4:14). Second, this kind of teaching leaves men without the comfort and peace of the sure convictions of a faith based on the sure foundations of the Word, but such nonsense actually hinders the sound proclamation of Scripture. Note that our text says, “rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith” (NASB) or “rather than God’s redemptive plan that operates by faith” (NET). The NIV has, “rather than (promoting) the work of God.”

“Administration” (NASB) or “work” (NIV) or “redemptive plan” (NET) is the Greek, oikonomia, and means either (1) an administration, a way of running things or (2) a stewardship which includes the authority and the work or responsibilities given to a servant (cf. 1 Cor. 4:1-2; 9:17; and Col. 1:25). The word comes from oikos, “house,” plus nomos, “law.” Literally, it means, “a house economy” or “a house steward.”

So what does it mean here? Does it means an administration or a stewardship? If we understand it to mean “administration or dispensation,” it means God’s method or plan of administering salvation to mankind today as in the dispensation of grace or the church age (since Acts 2). The point being that myths and legalistic teachings of the Law cannot further the grace of God in promoting this new administration, but actually hinders the work of carrying the message of God’s grace in Christ which is to be received by faith.

On the other hand, it refers to the office of a steward or a stewardship, it refers to the work of men as stewards of God who are ministering the gospel of Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Cor. 4:1-2). It refers to the work of preaching the Word and building men and women in the Scriptures to develop their faith. Perhaps, because of the context (cf. vss. 3 and 4 and the emphasis on instruction), this is its meaning here though both elements are really involved. The stewardship of preaching the Word in this administration of God is to be done in faith and is designed—because of the Bible’s accuracy, divine authenticity, and authority—to bring people to faith in the work of God in Christ. This is the wealth of assurance which only an accurate understanding of Scripture can give (Col. 2:2).

Unfortunately, many churches, and even churches that claim to be conservative Bible teaching ministries, are filled with people who are loaded with doctrinal and practical uncertainties. There are a virtual hodge-podge of doctrinal ideas and fads. Why? While the reasons are many, certainly part of the cause is unbiblical philosophies and methods when it comes to proclaiming the Word. This is serious business! It is very important that we take stock of the nature of our ministries and how well we are truly communicating the Bible to people.

The Goal or Aim of Our Instruction is Love (1:5)

We might at first be surprised by this. Isn’t our main goal through the study of the Word first fellowship with God and then the glory of God? Yes, undoubtedly it is, but the point is this. As Christians who profess to be God’s people and who claim to know Him, we are to be visible representatives of the invisible God, and nothing manifests that we know him, and know the truth like godly manifestations of love (1 John 4:7-12). And nothing shows our love, especially for those who have been given a responsibility of teaching as Sunday school teachers, parents, and pastor-teachers, like our willingness to labor in the Word and doctrine that we might be faithful communicators of the Word (see 1 Tim. 6:8f).

Literally the text says, “but the goal of the command.” What does “the command” refer to? This is undoubtedly broader than just the charge of verses 3 and 4, though obviously that is included. The last words of verse 4, “the work of God,” or “the stewardship of God,” clearly refer to the whole charge God has given us as his stewards in the responsibility of heralding the gospel message and the Word as an authoritative message. So communicating information or the knowledge of Scripture is clearly in view. For some thoughts on the benefits and dangers of knowledge, see the addendum.

The apostle clearly teaches us that the aim of our instruction or communication of biblical knowledge is love. “Love,” is the Greek word, agape. In the Greek text it is without the article which may stress the quality or character of love. Men can try to manufacture or simulate the agape kind of love, but when put under stress, it will be found to be nothing more than hypocritical expressions of love which give way to the true conditions of the heart (cf. Rom. 12:9).

Because false teaching fails to bring one into a right relationship with God, it is virtually impossible for it to produce the quality of true agape kind of love. Agape is the result of having the mind of Christ, or a Word-filled, Spirit-filled life. Further, agape love is sometimes used as a synonym for the fruit of the Spirit and the whole gamut of mature, spiritual character (1 Cor. 13:1f). It is never simply an isolated virtue, but that which most completely expresses the ministry and character of the Lord Jesus (cf. Gal. 5:22f).

Men can try to manufacture the appearance of true Christian love for various reasons, but it is virtually impossible for false teaching to produce this quality of love. True Christian love is the expression of fellowship with the living God (1 John 4). It is the product of fellowship with God through His Son in the power of the Holy Spirit and the light of the Word. It is the product of preaching the mystery of godliness (1 Tim. 3:16).

However, sound teaching or orthodoxy may also not produce this kind of love if people lose sight of the goal of biblical instruction. In other words, the study of the Word is never to be an end in itself. It is a means to an end, an indispensable means, but the end is the character of Jesus Christ reproduced in the believer by the fruit of the Spirit. When we study and teach the Word, THIS MUST BE EVER IN FRONT OF OUR MINDS! The end is love for God and love for men (Matt. 22:37-40).

The necessity and means of genuine, Spirit-produced, Word-inspired love is developed and stressed for us in the following words, “from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” Note three things:

First, the text is pointing us to the source of genuine love and that which has to be dealt with if we are to be a loving and serving people. This is the significance of “from,” the Greek preposition ek meaning “out of” and which points us to the source.

Second, note that one preposition goes with all three phrases which suggests that together they form the source and means to the production of agape love. Love is the product of an inward and spiritual change, the product of a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

Third, as the context makes clear, the only way to deal with all three of these areas or the inner man is the message of the Word. Only the Word, which is alive and powerful, ministered by the Spirit, can deal with the heart and conscience and produce faith in God through the principles and promises of Scripture.

But what do these three refer to and how does it apply to us?

(1) A “pure heart” is a cleansed heart. But in what sense? “Heart” is the Greek kardia which may refer to the physical pump or to the inner man—to either the mind or emotions or will, or to all three. The mind refers to one’s mental orientation, understanding, view point, and thought patterns—to the content of one’s mind or to how and what one thinks. A pure mind is one that operates with the Word as its filter or sieve.

The emotions are the feelings and appreciators or responders of the inner person. Good emotions stem from right thinking, from thinking that is being cleansed by the Word. We cleanse our emotions or have good emotions by thinking with the principles and promises of Scripture.

The will or volition is the decision maker of the inner person or the heart. Cleansed or right decisions come from transformed values and priorities and belief structures created by the Word in the life.

“Pure” is katharos, an adjective describing the kind of heart that one needs in order to produce genuine love. The key here comes from its use. It meant pure in the sense of free from admixture, unadulterated. As such, (a) it was used literally of clean water, of metal without alloy, of feelings that were unmixed, and of motives that were pure, single, and sincere; (b) But it also had a spiritual or ceremonial use. It was used of that which was fit for worship or service to God because it had been physically or spiritually cleansed. (c) Finally, it had an ethical use. It meant free from all guilt and pollution, innocent and pure or unmixed in motives, and of singleness of mind.

A cleansed heart refers to an inner life that has been cleansed of all known sin by honest confession and the proper use of 1 John 1:9. But this would also refer to a heart that has been cleansed in its attitudes, motives, values, and priorities, and in its emotions and choices. This means being cleansed by the Word from selfish perspectives, values, priorities, and pursuits (cf. Matt. 6:19-24II Cor. 2:17I Tim. 6:3-5).

(2) A “good conscience.” “Good” is the Greek agathos and is used of what is good in the sense of beneficial in its results and actions (Matt. 7:11Eph. 4:29Rom. 8:28). The opposite is a seared, hardened conscience. “Conscience” is the Greek suneidesis from a preposition, “with,” and another word meaning “to know.” Paul refers to the conscience six time in the pastorals (1 Tim. 1:5,19; 3:9; 4:2; 2 Tim. 1:3Tit. 1:15). The conscience is the place of one’s standards and norms, one’s sense of right and wrong, the place of one’s moral awareness. A “good conscience” is:

  • A conscience that has a biblical set of standards and norms or concepts of right and wrong. A conscience that has been cleansed and ordered according to the Word (cf. Heb. 5:14; 9:14).
  • A conscience that is sensitive and functioning correctly versus a conscience that has been callused or made insensitive by being ignored (cf. 4:2).
  • A conscience that is cleared of guilt through keeping short accounts with God, i.e., by the immediate confession of sin (cf. Acts 24:16I Tim. 3:9).
  • An active conscience that judges and approves only such thoughts, goals, motives, words, and deeds of the heart that are in harmony with the great goal of biblical instruction, namely, love and Christ-like service and character.

(3) A “sincere faith.” “Sincere” is the Greek anupokritos from hupokritos, “hypocrite.” It means “without hypocrisy, genuine.” Hupokrinomai, “to be a hypocrite,” was used of actors on a stage who held up false faces or masks over their face to show their moods to the audience seated high above in the seats of the Greek amphitheaters. So our word means “real, genuine,” or the opposite of acting as one in a play.

A sincere faith is foundational to all and refers to only to a real faith, but to one that is actively believes the promises and principles of Scripture and acts on them. For a beautiful illustration of living the life of faith which motivates us to love, serving without regard to self and selfish ambitions, compare the testimonies of Paul as it concerns the ministry in 2 Corinthians 2:14f; 4:1f and 1 Thessalonians 2:1f.

Passages like these should be read regularly by all of us. When we live by faith, we are able to be faithful and content regardless of the pressures of the ministry because God is our reward and our sufficiency (2 Cor. 2:16-17; 3:4-5).

In summary:

(1) A pure heart stresses our honesty with God and our motives—free from selfish pursuits and goals.

(2) A good conscience is one with God’s set of standards and norms, that is sensitive and functioning, and that is keep short accounts with God. We keep the conscience clear when we approve only such thoughts, goals, motives, words and deeds which are in harmony with the great goal or aim of the Word, namely LOVE.

(3) A sincere faith is a faith that is not only genuine, but in that genuineness it reaches out and claims the promises of God.

Fourth Critical Concern:
Failing to Aim Carefully
(1:6)

1:6 Some have strayed from these and turned away to empty discussion.

Undoubtedly, you have heard the statements, “aim at nothing and you will hit it every time,” or “people don’t plan to fail, they just fail to plan.” Not only must we have biblical goals, but we need to stay focused on them, like an runner focusing and stretching for the finish line. One of the greatest dangers we all face is the danger of staying alert and focused on biblical goals. It is too easy to get sidetracked by problems and by the allurements of the world. The Lord challenged the disciples to take heed to both what they heard and to how they heard it (Mark 4:24Luke 8:18) and Paul challenges us to watch carefully how we are walking because of the days are evil (Eph. 5:15-17). Peter admonishes us in a similar fashion in two passages. First he tells us, “Therefore, get your minds ready for action, by being fully sober, and set your hope completely on the grace that will be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed” (1 Pet. 1:13 emphasis mine). He then tells us to be on the alert, i.e., watchful, cautious, because our adversary the Devil is on the prowl (1 Pet. 5:8).

It’s ironic how most people tend to take such good care of their homes, cars and other possessions. They repaint, put on a new roof, re-carpet, wash their windows, and work hard at keeping their house in good shape. They wash and lube and detail their automobiles, boats, motorcycles, and put their valuables in the bank. That’s all well and good, but the most important element of life, the spiritual life of the inner man, we so often neglect. Solomon advises in this paraphrase of the Hebrew of Proverbs 4:23,
“Above all keeping, keep your heart, for from it flows the issues of life,” and Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33).

In 1 Timothy 1:5-11 we see four failures of the false teachers that can become our failure too if we are not watchful: (1) departure from the aim of instruction (vs. 5), (2) impure motives, wanting to be teachers of the law because this was a position of status (vs. 7), (3) insufficient understanding about the law and the gospel (vs. 7), and as a result, (4) turning aside to fruitless discussions (vs. 6).

But the key to their failure is seen in the words, “straying from these things.” “From these things” refers to the above verses and in particular, failure to promote the work of God which is in faith and the great goal of instruction which is love, the very epitome of Christ-like character.

“Straying” is the Greek astocheo from stochos which means “mark.” This verb means “to miss the mark, fail, deviate,” but it could also mean “to fail to aim carefully or even at all.” It meant to miss either a target or the right path because of failing to aim or watch carefully at the target. The passage has stressed that we have two targets for which we must always aim carefully or we will become defective to some degree and in some manner. These two targets are: (a) the stewardship God has entrusted to us, the proclamation and hearing of the objective truth of Scripture in place of the myths and fruitless discussions of men, and (b) the ultimate aim and goal of biblical instruction which is Christian love or being conformed into the image of the Lord which will result in the manifestation of God’s love to others.

Fifth Critical Concern:
Impure Motives
(1:7a)

1:7a They want to be teachers of the law,…

In this statement, the impure and selfish motives of the false teachers clearly surface, which demonstrates their failure in love for others.

Literally, the text says, “desiring to be teachers of the law,…” “Desiring” is an adverbial participle (thelontesfrom thelo, “to wish for, desire, want”) that is dependent on and modifies the main verb, “turned away.” It points us to a false objective or goal that had caused them to turn aside from the biblical goals the apostle had just discussed. In the context here, this was a problem of ego and impure motives. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be a teacher of the Word; the problem is with the why, the reason or motives. In New Testament times, to be a teacher of the law meant to have a position of respect, authority, and often, significant financial reward as in the case of the religious Pharisees. And I am afraid that today, we see the same thing happening. Many go into full-time ministry, but for all the wrong reasons. These false teachers were not called and gifted of God; they simply went without being sent. Like Simon the sorcerer of Acts 8 and Gehazi of 2 Kings 5, they were coveting money, position, power, and prestige. Rather than being motivated by love for God, His glory, and for people and their need, they were coveting the praise of men (cf. 1 Thess. 2:1ff) or were hucksters peddling the Word of God for personal gain (cf. 2 Cor. 2:17). By contrast, they were men with an impure heart, an evil conscience, and an insincere faith.

Perhaps nothing is so deadly and destructive to a man’s ministry as what Ralph Turnbull described as the dry rot of covetousness. “Dry rot in timber is a disease which occasions the destruction of the fibers, and reduces timber eventually to a mass of dry dust.”10 And so covetousness in a man’s heart eats away at the very fiber of his character and at the very nature and heart of his ministry, which is having a servant’s heart. As the servants of Jesus, we have been called to be servants of men, to minister to the needs of others, and to bring to them the healing power of the message of the Savior and His Word. For it is only this message and its truth which can sanctify lives (John 17:17).

When we operate from a spirit of covetousness whether for position, praise, or for money, we are involved in that which is contradictory to the very heart of Christian ministry. Such is hypocritical and destructive to both ourselves and to our ministries. It shows we are failing to take heed to our own lives and are preaching a message we don’t really understand or believe as we should. Not only are we not practicing what we preach or teach, but we are not experiencing the healing, life-changing power of the Savior ourselves. Like the disciples who were often seen coveting position in the kingdom, believers can be around the Word, yet, by virtue of covetousness for position, praise, power, or possessions, they can become closed to and robbed of the very truth they are sent out to proclaim (see 1 Tim. 6:5, 10).

The world and the people of our churches are crying for authenticity; they want to see Christians with whom Jesus Christ is real, who are role models and whose lives are living proofs of the very doctrine they proclaim (seeHeb. 13:7). Too often, as we have seen with some of the television evangelists, they are served the opposite.

In view of this, we should compare 1 Timothy 4:15-16. “Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Be conscientious about how you live and what you teach. Persevere in this, because by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.” Contextually, Paul was telling Timothy how to be a good servant of Jesus Christ. He is one who faithfully feeds others after he feeds himself (see 4:6, 11). The basic principle is this: to be an effective servant in public, one must be effective and faithful in private. A vital public ministry is dependent upon a vital private life.

We should note the order of the first words of verse 16. It is extremely significant. First and literally, “Pay close attention to yourself” and then “to your teaching.” The verb here, epecho, “hold toward, aim at,” with an emphasis on the object held. It means “to fix one’s attention upon something.” Epecho refers to concentrated mental processes and again draws our attention to having and keeping focused on biblical goals, the things that keep us from straying off course.

So, those who wanted to be teachers of the law were those who were ego-oriented and motivated by selfish desires. They were those who had failed to have the right goals and had thereby strayed off course. Rather than ministering for God and others, they were serving themselves. They were occupied with things like, Appearance, “How do I look to people?” Status, “How am I doing?” Performance, “How am I doing?” Gain, “What can I get out of it?”

Wrong goals and straying of the path of faithful servanthood leads to other prominent and obvious critical concerns.

Sixth Critical Concern:
Little or No Understanding of the Word
(1:7b)

The Problem Explained

1:7b but they do not understand what they are saying or the things they insist on so confidently.

Here we see an illustration of cause and effect, of root and fruit, or sowing and reaping. “Desiring to be teachers of the law,” which stemmed from impure motives, was part of the cause, the root of straying from right biblical goals. One the other hand, failing to understand what they were saying points us to one of the results, the fruit. When one’s desire to teach the Word is not motivated by the desire to know God more intimately, His truth more accurately, and minister to the needs of others more effectively, then one will naturally be poorly motivated to truly know God’s truth. In their desire to be “teachers” they were not real students of the Word, which is a crucial requirement and an awesome responsibility for biblical ministry. They were sloppy students, if they were even students at all. They were relying on such things as their ability to articulate what little they knew, on acting as authorities, on personal charisma, and on a spirit of dogmatism. So, as these and other verses in the pastoral epistles show, they were misconstruing Scripture, using it for their own ends; they were both adding to it and misrepresenting it.

Surely, one of the greatest blights on the church today is the shallowness we find in relation to what is being taught. Someone has said the evangelical movement spreading across the country and claiming dynamic things for God is 3000 miles in length, 2000 miles in width, but only two inches deep.

The Challenge and the Cure

1 Timothy 4:5, 13-16; 5:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14-4:3

The term crisis is becoming ever more common since we are treated to some crisis almost daily, but it is a term that is being used more and more with regard to what is going on in Christianity today. For instance, in his book, Toward An Exegetical Theology, a well-known Old Testament Scholar, Walter C. Kaiser, Jr., begins his book with the first chapter devoted to this issue. The chapter is entitled “Current Crises in Exegetical Theology” and is devoted to the sad state of affairs we are in today regarding the preaching of the Word. Listen to a couple of his comments.

To be sure, the Church has had more than her rightful share of “meditation” or “topical sermons” which are more or less loosely connected with a Biblical phrase, clause, sentence, verse, or scattered assortment thereof.…

Those sermons whose alleged strength is that they speak to contemporary issues, needs, and aspirations often exhibit the weakness of a subjective approach. In the hands of many practitioners, the Biblical text has been of no real help either in clarifying the questions posed by modern man or in offering solutions.… What is so lacking in this case is exactly what needs to be kept in mind with respect to every sermon which aspires to be at once both Biblical and practical; it must be derived from an honest exegesis of the text and it must constantly be kept close to the text.11

Another excellent book concerned with the crisis we are facing today, especially in conservative or evangelical Christianity, is a book entitled, The Coming Evangelical Crisis. This book is concerned with the way we have turned away from the Bible as our authority in faith and practice and turned to the methods and ideas of the world even while claiming allegiance to the Scripture, especially in relation to our moral values, priorities, the way and reason we gather for worship and our spiritual lives in general. In this book, there is also an entire chapter devoted to the issue of preaching entitled, “Preaching: God’s Word to the Church Today.”

Why are we hearing this cry by so many concerned conservative evangelicals today? Because clearly, the Bible teaches us that the preaching/teaching process in heralding the Scripture is vital to the church’s ability to hold to the Bible so that its message accomplishes its God-ordained work to both form and reform the church.

Plainly, effective pastoral ministry is a call to accurately study the Bible first with a view to one’s own life and then with a view to ministering its powerful truth to others. In his excellent book, Between Two Worlds, John Stott wrote,

There is no doubt that the best teachers in any field of knowledge are those who remain students all their lives. It is particularly true of the ministry of the Word. “None will ever be a good minister of the Word of God unless he is first of all a scholar.” (Calvin) Spurgeon had the same conviction. “He who has ceased to learn has ceased to teach. He who no longer sows in the study will no more reap in the pulpit.”

There is a freshness and a vitality about every sermon which is born of study; without study, however, our eyes become glazed, our breath stale and our touch clumsy .12

Certainly, this is part of Paul’s emphasis when he told Timothy, “Take pains with these things; be absorbedin them, so that your progress may be evident to all” (1 Tim. 4:15). Bishop Phillips Brooks in his 1877 Yale Lectures said:

He must not be always trying to make sermons, but always seeking truth, and out of the truth which he has won, sermons will make themselves… Here is the need of broad and generous culture. Learn to study for the sake of truth, learn to think for the profit and joy of thinking. Then your sermons shall be like the leaping of a fountain, and not like the pumping of a pump.13

Truly, the higher one’s view of the Bible, the more committed we ought to be to careful and consistent study and the more we should recognize our need of its truth both for our own life as well as for our ministry to others.

Many evangelical pastors and churches claim to believe in the verbal plenary inspiration of the Bible, that it is inerrant and infallible and God’s authoritative Word. But too often, by their approach to ministry, by their neglect of study and the emphasis on programs and activity, by the way some of these pastors use their time, one wonders just how sincere and strong is this belief in the Bible as God’s Holy Word.

But what about the claims of many pastors? I don’t have time, and I have too many demands on my time! First, one needs to be sure this is not an excuse because of an aversion to the hard work of study or a dislike for it. Second, it could be a problem of letting others plan one’s time, and a failure to set priorities and to allot time accordingly (see Acts 6). If we do not plan our time and allot it according to biblical priorities and convictions, we can be sure others will plan our time for us. The devil himself will see to that. Finally, such could be a matter of having a very defective philosophy of ministry and one that needs a careful overhaul in the light of the Word or the emphasis seen in the pastoral epistles.

Conclusion

A number of critical concerns have been shared from 1 Timothy 1:3-7, but at the heart of these is a deep concern for both the communication of the truth of Scripture and the right motives in proclaiming that truth for we cannot separate the two without serious detriment to our ability to care for the church of the Lord Jesus. In his book, The Great Evangelical Disaster, the late Francis Schaeffer warned about some of the crucial or watershed issues facing evangelicalism, but he especially bemoaned the fact that, because many have failed to have a sufficiently high view of the Bible as God’s inerrant and inspired Word, the evangelical church has failed to maintain a concern for truth or sound biblical theology.14

Theology is tremendously important. The apostle Paul’s emphasis in the pastorals for sound doctrine shows a his concern for theology. It also mattered to Jesus (John 17:17) and it mattered to the reformers, but how much does it matter to the church today? Unfortunately, not enough. The church today has become caught up in the thinking and agendas of a popular culture that thinks in terms of being politically correct and being accepted by the crowd rather than biblically correct and honoring to God. As Schaeffer pointed out,

It is comfortable to accommodate to that which is in vogue about us, to the forms of the world spirit in our age. This accommodation has been deadly—in the loss of twelve million human lives over the last ten years by abortion. But it does not stop with questions of life; it is just as evident to virtually every other issue which has been made fashionable by secularist mentality of the day.15

Theology should matter to teachers of the Word because people have a theology whether they know it or not. It may be good (biblical) or bad (worldly), conscious or unconscious, but regardless, people will act from what they believe about God and man and the world in which they live. Their theology will protect them from falsehood, or allow then to believe a lie (see 2 Thess. 2:9f). Plainly, there can be no true spirituality or a healthy and effective church apart from sound theology. Speaking of the persuasive power of the future Antichrist and his ability to lead people astray, Daniel wrote, “And by smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant” (Dan. 11:32a) But the prophet was also confident that not all would fall for his propaganda for he then added, “but the people who know their God will display strength and take action” (Dan. 11:32b).

This is where the leadership of the church has such a grave responsibility in teaching and training the flock of God in the truth of the Bible. Naturally then, this becomes a critical concern and an area where we can expect the evil one to be hard at work.

Writing the foreword to R. C. Sproul’s Book, Knowing Scripture, J. I. Packer writes,

If I were the devil (please, no comment), one of my first aims would be to stop folk from digging into the Bible. Knowing that it is the Word of God, teaching men to know and love and serve the God of the Word, I should do all I could to surround it with the spiritual equivalent of pits, thorn hedges and man traps, to frighten people off.…

How? Well, I should try to distract all clergy from preaching and teaching the Bible, and spread the feeling that to study this ancient book directly is a burdensome extra which modern Christians can forgo without loss. I should broadcast doubts about the truth and relevance and good sense and straightforwardness of the Bible, and if any still insisted on reading it I should lure them into assuming that the benefit of the practice lies in the noble and tranquil feelings evoked by it rather than in noting what Scripture actually says. At all costs I should want to keep them from using their minds in a disciplined way to get the measure of its messages.

Were I the devil, taking stock today, I think I might be pleased at the progress I had made…16

Effective biblical preaching and teaching has always been a central priority of God for His people as expressed throughout the Bible, Old and New Testament. It must be so for it is one of the means His people develop sound theology. We would expect then that all Bible believing preachers, like the early apostles (see Acts 6:2-4), would make study and heralding the Word a priority. But that is simply not the case because, as mentioned above, what is popular in the culture in which we live has negatively impacted the expository preaching of the Bible. Many pastors and church leaders have despaired of studying and preaching.

Less and less of their time is devoted to prayer and preparation. Some spend no more than two or three hours in preparation for Sunday. One such pastor makes a habit of preparing his sermon on Saturday night while watching television! Such preaching inevitably makes spare use of Scripture and becomes a series of stories linked around a devotional thought. Some have given up preaching altogether and have shifted to what they call more “hands-on” ministries.

Some have been very candid. “Preaching doesn’t work like they told me in seminary.” “People don’t want to hear it.” “Exposition is for a bygone age.” “Exposition is by definition boring.” So with these, and similar dismissals, the preaching of God’s Word is shelved, and the centerpiece of the Reformation (the pulpit) is moved, in effect, to the back of Bible-believing churches.17

A recent survey in Christianity Today gives adequate evidence for concern because the survey shows many pastors simply do not make Bible study and preaching a priority.

… They considered relational skills the top priority, followed by management abilities, communication skills, and then spirituality. Well’s assertion that the Christian ministry is being redefined in terms of the CEO and the psychologist, whose task it is to engineer good relations and warm feelings, is manifestly ratified by this survey. It is difficult to imagine patients or surgeons listing medical knowledge as the least important item in that respective field—or, for that matter, those involved and affected by any particular vocational endeavor—without massive repercussions.

The thing that most disturbed me about the accompanying Christianity Today article, however, was the way it interpreted the data gleaned from this survey. Because seminary professors put a high priority on theological knowledge, they were considered out of touch with reality and did not have “a good understanding of the needs of local churches or the culture.” The article concludes with this ominous remark: “Something’s got to happen. The church is not going to wait. If the seminaries don’t wake up and come along, they will be left in the dust.” … The article implied that less theology (or maybe no theology) in the seminary curriculum is the direction needed…18

Through the centuries, people have chosen various symbols to show they are Christians, but the greatest mark of Christianity, as the Lord so clearly taught the disciples, is love.

John 13:33 Children, I am still with you for a little while. You will look for me, and just as I said to the Jewish authorities, ‘Where I am going you cannot come,’ now I tell you the same. 13:34 “I give you a new commandment—to love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 13:35 Everyone will know by this that you are my disciples—if you have love for one another.”

It is the message of the suffering Savior who gave His life for us to redeem us from our sin and our self-centered lives that brings us into a vital relationship with God by which we are then able to truly manifest love for others. Thus Paul has shown us that the aim of our instruction is love, but may we never forget that it is right theology and knowing God in Christ that forms the basis for genuine love as it is so evident in these verses from 1 John 4.

4:7 Dear friends, let us love one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves is fathered by God and knows God. 4:8 The person who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 4:9 By this the love of God is revealed in us: that God has sent his one and only Son into the world so that we may live through him. 4:10 In this is love: not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.

4:11 Dear friends, if God so loved us, then we also ought to love one another. 4:12 No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God resides in us, and his love is perfected in us. 4:13 By this we know that we reside in God and he in us: in that he has given us of his Spirit. 4:14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world.

Addendum:
The Benefits and Dangers of Knowledge19

God would never instruct us to know the Scripture to be spiritually informed if it were not a vital need in every human being. So what are some of the benefits of knowing God’s truth?

(1) Biblical knowledge gives direction to the life. One of the great warnings of Scripture is that apart from God’s truth, man simply cannot know how to direct his life. It was Jeremiah, the prophet, who said, “I know, O Lord, that a man’s way is not in himself; Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps” (Jer. 10:23).

(2) Biblical knowledge gives substance to one’s faith. Faith in itself is useless unless one’s faith has the right object. “On what do those who do not know the truth rely? On emotion, on feelings, on someone else’s opinion, on a book, on tradition, on some other empty, humanistic hope. And the result? Their faith lacks substance.”20

(3) Biblical knowledge gives stability under pressure. When we know that God’s has spoken (inspiration of Scripture) and we know what God has said (His promises), then we can rest in God’s grace, love, plan, and work in our lives because we have a hope that transcends this life. Through the Scriptures, we have hope, and hope gives stability (see Rom. 5:1f; 15:4).

(4) Biblical knowledge gives ability to handle the Word accurately. “By knowing the general themes of Scripture, we are better able to handle the Scriptures intelligently and wisely. A working knowledge of the doctrines, for example, gives us confidence in using Scripture.

(5) Biblical knowledge equips us to detect and confront error. One of the important themes of the pastoral epistles is “sound doctrine” because sound doctrine is necessary to detect and confront false teaching and teachers, as Paul exhorts Timothy in 1:3f. Nothing enables us to detect what is counterfeit like knowing what is true.

(6) Biblical knowledge gives confidence in one’s daily walk with God. As the apostle Paul put it inColossians 2:2, through the knowledge of the truth as it is found in Christ, we can experience “the full assurance which understanding gives” in our daily walk with the Savior. This means assurance of salvation, the assurance of security, assurance in prayer, in God’s guidance, and assurance of God’s provision of daily cleansing and provision against the power of sin. As the Psalmist put it, “I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts” (Ps. 119:45).

(7) Biblical knowledge filters out our fears and superstitions which siphon our inner energy and immobilize us. God’s truth becomes a screen, a sieve, that sifts out the superstitions that so many people operate by on a daily basis such as seeking direction through their horoscope.

Knowledge alone, however, can be dangerous. Swindoll suggest four dangers:

  • “Knowledge can be dangerous when it lacks biblical support—intelligent biblical support.” And such support needs to be accurate. It is too easy to wrongly quote the Bible as proof texts. In this case people often act dogmatically, but they are still only operating on human opinion.
  • “Knowledge can be dangerous when it becomes an end in itself.” Or when sought from the wrong motives as to impress people, boost up a sagging ego, or gain points with God.
  • “Knowledge can be dangerous when it isn’t balanced and motivated by love and grace. Such results in arrogance, which leads to an intolerant spirit … an exclusive mindset.” This often leads to the misuse of one’s liberty and a complete lack of love for others (Rom. 14).
  • “Knowledge can be dangerous when it remains theoretical—when it is not mixed with discernment and action” or the wise and holy use of that knowledge (see Col. 1:9f; 2 Tim.3:17).

This leads us to an important question those involved in pastoral ministry need to ask. What is our final authority? When the chips are down, on what do we rely? When we seek reasons for what we do, what do we turn to? What forms the foundation for our action? When we stop and think about it, there are all sorts of sources of authority that people rely on for what they do or don’t do in terms of pastoral ministry and personal decisions.

These sources of authority also become crutches we can lean on. Some of the things people lean on rather than the Word of God are: (a) Escapism. (b) Cynicism: becoming so occupied with one’s trouble that they grow dark and cynical. They become full of resentment and literally nurse their resentment which expresses itself in revenge tactics (the escape). (c) Secular Humanism (science, empiricism): Men tend to listen to the council of some other person, rather than God. They get their answers from people or a book. They turn to self-help, people’s opinions, self-realization. (d) Supernaturalism: This may be mild or maddening. Some will turn to mediums, some to astrology, some to emotionalism, some to the occult. But in some way they seek a sign from God. Christ said that an evil and adulterous generation seeks after signs. (e) Rationalism. (f) Traditionalism (social, religious, ancestry). (g) Favoritism (the problem of fan clubs): This results in becoming fractional or incomplete in spiritual growth because one refuses to listen to what God is teaching others from the Word. When this occurs, men become our authority and not Scripture (cf. 1 Cor. 3:1ff).


1 Oswald Sanders, Spiritual Leadership, p. 20.

2 Ibid., p. 180.

3 All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise noted, are from the NET Bible.

4 See 1 Timothy 4:142 Timothy 1:61 Corinthians 12:7; and 1 Peter 4:10a.

5 See 1 Corinthians 4:1f; 1 Timothy 4:14 [“neglect” = make light of, fail to care for]; see also 1 Peter 4:10b and 1 Timothy 6:20 [“entrusted” is a legal term for what has been deposited with another for safe keeping or for a return on the investment. This refers to the gospel, the Word, but included in that is Timothy’s gift].

6 Walter C. Kaiser Jr., Toward An Exegetical Theology, Biblical Exegesis For Preaching and Teaching, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1981, p. 243.

7 Quoted by Kaiser, p. 238.

8 Kaiser, p. 19.

9 Kaiser, p. 20.

10 Ralph A. Turnbull, A Minister’s Obstacles, p. 26.

11 Walter C. Kaiser Jr., pp. 18-19.

12 John R. W. Stott, Between Two Worlds, The Art of Preaching in the Twentieth Century, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids, 1982, p. 180.

13 Quoted by Stott, pp. 180-181.

14 Francis A. Schaeffer, The Great Evangelical Disaster, Crossway Books, Westchester, 1984.

15 Ibid., P. 111.

16 R. C. Sproul, Knowing Scripture, InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove, 1977, Forward.

17 R. Kent Hughes, Chapter Five, “Preaching God’s Word to the Church Today,” The Coming Evangelical Crisis, John H. Armstrong, General Editor, Moody Press, Chicago, 1996, p. 91.

18 Gary L. W. Johnson, Chapter 3, “Does Theology Still Matter?,” The Coming Evangelical Crisis, pp. 59-60.

19 Part of the following is summarized and taken from Charles R. Swindoll’s Book, Growing Deep in Christian Life, Multomah Press, Portland, 1986, pp. 25-32.

20 Swindoll, p. 25.”

WATCH: Joel Osteen to Speak at T. D. Jakes’ Pastors and Leaders Conference In May 2012

 

 

Reference Material Cited:”Cited that “Healthy Pastors is used in this piece for reference material only… http://theresurgence.com/2009/09/12/healthy-pastors-pastors-do-get-depressed

“Cited:  The reference for Critical concerns for Pastoral Ministry:  material is from bible.com – http://bible.org/article/critical-concerns-pastoral-ministry-1-timothy-13-7

 

Posted by:  Minister Evelyn Diane Thomas in honor of 40 days of Lenten Season – Pastors (leaders in ministry)

 

Happy 9th Birthday Justin ~ Mommy “Loves” you !

Justin you are the apple of my eye, the pick me up when I’m down, and the bundle of joy God gave to me that I would not trade for the world.  Yet at times, it seemed challenging, but with help from the all mighty God my challenge became my triumph and for that I’m truly grateful for you!

Happy 9th birthday 

Justin Jeremiah Larkins!

Red, yellow, black and white, they are precious in his sight, Jesus Loves the little Children of the World...

 


~2012~

 

 

Wishing You Nine Lives! Largest Database of Images For Comments And Profiles at FreeCommentTags.com
I can never ever imagine
what life would have been
like without you.. I’m so
glad that God saw fit to
give me just what I
wanted and need..
I’ve truly found real love son,
when God gave me you…

I love you so much,

Mommy Evelyn
2012 

 

 

Photobucket

Wishing You Nine Lives!

 

Much love to you baby boy and I pray this new adventure that I’m letting you go on turn out to be all that God has for you on this 9th birthday… I’m going to miss you while you are  away, but I know you are going to have tons of  fun.. So as we party all day, and you know I literally mean that… Enjoy every moment, every second of your very special day!

“HAPPY 9TH BIRTHDAY JUSTIN!”

Churches (All houses of Worship that lift up the Name of God)

1 Timothy 2:8 (New Living Translation) In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy..

“Our daily task is to love God, love people, lift up the name of Jesus and promote the Kingdom  God!”

Churches: 

Church:

1. a building for public Christian worship.
2.public worship of God or a religious service in such a building: to attend church regularly.
3. ( sometimes initial capital letter ) the whole body of Christian believers; Christendom.
4. ( sometimes initial capital letter ) any division of this body professing the same creed andacknowledging the same
ecclesiastical authority; a Christian denomination: theMethodist Church.
5. that part of the whole Christian body, or of a particular denomination, belonging to thesame city, country, nation, etc.
6. a body of Christians worshiping in aparticular building or constituting one congregation: She is a member of this church.
7. ecclesiastical organization, power, and affairs, as distinguished from the state:separation of church and state; The missionarywent
wherever the church sent him.
8.  the clergy and religious officials of a Christian denomination.
9.  the Christian faith: a return of intellectuals to the church.
10. ( initial capital letter ) the Christian Church before the Reformation.
11. ( initial capital letter ) the Roman Catholic Church.
12.  the clerical profession or calling: After much study and contemplation, he was prepared to enterthe church.
13. a place of public worship of a non-Christian religion.
14. any non-Christian religious society,organization, or congregation: the Jewish church.

15. to conduct or bring to church, especially for special services.
16. South Midland and Southern U.S. to subject to church discipline.
17. to perform a church service of thanksgiving for (a woman after childbirth).

March 22, 2012 is 29th day of  Lent.   Today we will be praying about our Churches  and discussing All houses of Worship that lift up Name of God!    Let me know where some of  you worship our Lord and Savior at?  All comments are welcomed…

Many people feel apprehensive about attending a new church for the first time. Most of us know what it felt like to go to a new church wondering am I going to have to stand up and have words, etc.  It does not matter what church you came from because there is only one God for all houses of worship that lift up the name of  God/ Jesus!  I think when the Baptist, Pentecostal, Methodist, Free Holiness, Roman Catholic, and other church backgrounds all get together, what a time, what a time what a time we will have worshiping him in spirit and in truth.  Every church has their own way of worshiping, I say, “just get in where you fit in…”

Being in the right church is vital… When you are rooted and grounded in the place of God,  your life is constantly changing for the better… Good sound leadership, teaching  good sound doctrine that come from no other than the Holy Bile – I say, if they are preaching and teaching the unadulterated Gospel, then you are in the right place…

 You should know what your church covenant says, and know your order of worship, unless you go to one of them Holy Ghost knock out churches like I  use too, then the schedule, and all the programmed stuff goes out the window when the Holy Ghost takes over, yet and still there is order.. Be sure you choose a church to your liking.. If you like that structured ordered church, they do have those in every denomination….  As for me and my house, give me that church where I can be free to exercise every gift and believe in the 5 folds of ministry… Even being a cyber-member, I feel important knowing that I have the same access and information as the local members….  To me, it’s very important to know what goes on in my house of worship as I lift up the Name of the Lord…

Matthew 18:20 (NIV)20 “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Open publication – Free publishingMore christian

At Empowerment Temple, Pastor Jamal Bryant has a very user friendly church for his people… He has a magazine in PDF form that has an introduction of who he is and what his church is all about… There is the Litany and several other vital documents that can help you to feel more comfortable in your church when you know on a first hand basis what you assembly offers and what they believe as far as doctrine goes… The Litany at his church, which I love and made it my business to learn because in writing and out of my mouth I love professing exactly what thus says the Lord…. Right above this paragraph, I have enclose a copy of his Echoes Empowerment Magazine which is a great ideal for any church to use to supply the members with the necessary information to become an active successful member..

John 4:21 (ESV) 21 Jesus said to her,“Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.

At my Cyber church at Empowerment Temple, Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, Pastor they offer several ministries as you can see below:

AMBASSADORS

Ministry Description:
The Ambassadors greet worshipers and escort them to their seats, distribute materials related to the worship service and direct individuals to pay tithes and offering in an orderly manner. The Ambassadors ministry revolves around serving first; and ushering comes second.

Focus Scripture:
Psalms 84:10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand.  I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wicked.

Meeting Schedule:
First Saturday of every month from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. in the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at The Empowerment Temple A.M.E Church, 4217 Primrose Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215

Email: ambassadors@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

ARTS AND CULTURE MINISTRY

Ministry Description:
The Arts & Culture Ministry serves as a spiritual mechanism educating others through the platform of the arts by Empowering creative aspirations, Engaging community involvement, Embracing cultural diversity, and Enhancing spiritual growth through the power of artistic expression.

Focus Scripture:
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Meeting Schedule:
Thursdays at 6:30pm to 9:00 p.m. in the balcony over the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at the Empowerment Temple AME Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: artsandculture@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

BISHOP HARRISON BRYANT SCHOLARSHIP

The Scholarship Committee supports the membership and the community in furthering their education.  We achieve our mission by sponsoring workshops, attending college fairs and expos, being a conduit for scholarship information, awarding scholarships and by creating opportunities for self-empowerment through collaborations and partnerships with organizations and institutions that support higher learning, training and development.

Focus Scripture:
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

Meeting Schedule:
Face-to-face meeting times vary.  Face-to-face meetings depend on events and activities being planned.  Many meetings – throughout the year — are held by conference call.  (The Scholarship Committee staffs an information table after each service one to three (1-3) Sundays each month.

Email:  Etamesscholars@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

BEYOND THE WALLS MINISTRY

The Beyond The Walls Ministry goes beyond the sanctuary to restore hope into the hearts, mind and spirit of humankind. This ministry consists of prison, addiction, homeless, and street ministry.

Focus Scripture:
Matthew 25: 35-36 For I was hungered, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye visited me: I was I prison, and ye came unto me.

Meeting Schedule: Meet the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: beyondthewalls@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

CECELIA WILLIAMS-BRYANT MISSIONARY SOCIETY

The Cecelia Williams-Bryant Missionary Society provide opportunities and resources to meet the changing needs and concerns of people throughout the church, the community and the world, and offer a fellowship so strong, a message so convincing and so enthusiastically contagious, that the Gospel through us will be at work in the world. If under 26, they become a member of the YPD, which is also an arm of the Missionary Society.

Focus Scripture:
Acts 10:38  How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

Meeting Schedule:
Meet the 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217. Conference branch meetings are the 3rd Tuesday of each month at Grace AME Church. Area Meetings are held quarterly.

Email: missionaries@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

CHILDREN’S CHURCH

Children’s church is a place where youths between the ages of 4-11 worship.  Children learn about prayer, worship and the word of God in an environment that is structured for them.

Focus Scripture:
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Meeting Schedule:
Children’s Church meets every week at 11:30 am service, at the Forum, directly across the street from the Church entrance.

Email: childrenschurch@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

DANCE MINISTRY

The Dance Ministry’s mission is to serve, reclaim and demonstrate truth through the ministry of dance.  We are used as vessels to bring forth the word of God through movement.

Focus Scripture:
Isaiah 43:18-19 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.

Meeting Schedule:
Every Thursday 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary at the Empowerment Temple AME Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215
2nd Saturday of each month 8:00 until 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary at the Empowerment Temple AME Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215
1st and 4th Saturdays from 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. at Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: danceministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

DIVAS

The Divas (Developing and Inspiring Virtuous Anointed Sisters) ministry mission is to help our pre-teen and teenage girls develop into young women of purpose, power, respect, value and virtue. Our ministry promotes spiritual growth, develops sisterhood and positive friendship with peers and mentors.

Focus Scripture:
Psalms 139: 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made

Meeting Schedule:
Every 4th Saturday.  Youth committee meets at 10:00 a.m. & DIVAS meet at 11 a.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217.

Email: divas@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

DRAMA

This is one of the creative arms of Empowerment Temple that serve God through a multiplicity of gifts and talents. As they may entertain, they never loose focus to transform and impact lives.

Focus Scripture:
Luke 1:45b There shall be a performance

Meeting Schedule:
1st and 4th Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: dramaministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

HEALTH

The Holistic Health and Wellness Ministry of the Empowerment Temple, AME Church is committed to providing a platform for holistic health and wellness education.  We believe that health encompasses spiritual, physical, mental, and environmental aspects of an individual.  We believe that health education and wellness must be addressed from and intervention perspective as opposed to being problem driven.

Focus Scripture:
Jeremiah 33:6 Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security

Meeting Schedule:
Meets 1st Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at the Empowerment Temple Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: health@empwowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

HOSPITALITY

The Hospitality Ministry greets members, guests, and visitors with a heartfelt smile, a hearty handshake and a warm hug.

Focus Scripture:
Romans 12:13 Share with God’s people who are in need, practice hospitality.

Meeting Schedule:
1st Monday of every month from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: hospitalityminstry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

LYRIC

The L.Y.R.I.C. (Liberating Yourself Rhythmically in Christ) ministry of Empowerment Temple seeks to use our God given gifts and talents to spread the word of God. We combine the realness of our testimonies, our gifting and God’s own guiding hand to speak and bring forth poetically what the Lord will have us to minister. We seek not only to speak to those within the four walls of the church, but also to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world!

Focus Scripture:
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God.

Meeting Schedule:
Every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. in the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at the Empowerment Temple Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: lyric@empowerenttemple.org
_____________________________________

MARRIAGE MINISTRY

The Marriage Ministry mission is to restore the sacredness of marriage by spiritually empowering men and women to a deeper understanding of God’s ordained purpose for their unity.

Focus Scripture:
Matthew 19:6 So they are no longer two, but one.  Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.

Meeting Schedule:
Meeting Schedule: Every 3rd Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: marriageministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

MENTAL HEALTH MINISTRY

The Mental Health Ministry provides support to those who are experiencing life-altering events. Our Mission is to comfort and redirect the emotions experienced during loss, through education, prayer, resources, and follow-up support.

Focus Scripture:
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted

Meeting Schedule:
1st and 3rd Mondays from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email:  bereavementministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

MINISTERS IN TRAINING (MIT)

Focus Scripture:
Ephesians 4:11-12 The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

Mission Statement:
The mission of MIT is to empower and equip people to fulfill their call to ministry.

Description:
This two year course of study is designed 1) to provide clarity to those that have a call to ministry or that are seeking to explore their call and 2) to provide students with a practicum experience. Year one of the course will cover some of the fundamental beliefs of Christianity, African Methodism, Prayer, and provide guidance and direction in understanding and exploring their call. Year two of the course will consist of training and practicum.

Meeting Schedule:
First Saturdays of each month from 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21217

For more information please contact: Reverend Benita Keene at 410-225-3494 or Email: bkeene@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

MOVE (Men of Valor and Empowerment) MINISTRY

The men of Empowerment Temple are purpose driven, mighty men of valor focused on the development of the total man. Our goal is to position men to take their rightful God ordained place, and empower them spiritually, economically, physically, academically and socially.

Focus Scripture:
Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another

Meeting Schedule:
1st Saturday of Every Month from 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. in the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at the Empowerment Temple Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: move@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

MUSIC MINISTRY AND FINE ARTS

The Music and Arts Ministry serves as one body united in spirit and purpose to create an atmosphere of worship. It is comprised of skilled musicians, anointed singers, powerful lyricists, dancers and actors. Our sole intention is to usher people into the presence of God and prepare people’s hearts for the hearing of God’s word.

Focus Scripture:
Psalm 147:1 Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!

Meeting Schedule:
Voices of Empowerment: Thursday before 1st and 3rd Sundays, (subject to change at discretion of Minister of Music)

Ladies of Grace:  1st and 4th Wednesday of each month, (subject to change)

Men of Vision:  TBD

Youth and Young Adult Choir: Wednesday and Thursday before 5th Sunday

Email: musicministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

NEW MEMBER’S MINISTRY

New Members’ Ministry provides inspiration and information to new members of the Empowerment Temple.  We provide encouragement and instruction to new believers, and understanding and direction to committed Christians as they work for Christ.  It is our goal to acclimate each new member to ministry opportunities and services available through the church.

Focus Scripture:
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in your richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, an das you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

Meeting Schedule:
First Wednesday of each month 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. in the Charles Robinson Fellowship Hall at the Empowerment Temple Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: newmembers@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

PRAYER MINISTRY

The Prayer Ministry mobilizes a united prayer effort within the church to encourage, teach and mentor intercessors that will give priority and emphasis to prayer in life and ministry. The ministry serves our local church through intercessory prayer and mentors intercessors for a global harvest.

Focus Scripture:
Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God’s people. – Ephesians 6:18

Meeting Schedule:
Every Wednesday Rush Hour Prayer from 6:00am-7:00am and evenings from 6:00am-7am. Sunday morning before service from 7:00am-7:30am. in the sanctuary at the Empowerment Temple Church, 4217 Primrose Ave Baltimore, MD  21215

Email: prayer@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

C.O.P.S. (Christians On Patrol Security)

This is the security ministry of Empowerment Temple, which is designed to keep a healthy and controlled environment for worship. COPS ensures the Pastor and members are safe and protected during every worship experience. We stand as the watchmen on the wall.

Focus Scripture:
Psalms 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.  Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.

Meeting Schedule:
3rd Saturday of the month at 12 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: cops@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

SENIOR MINISTRY

The Seniors Ministry mission is to provide direction and support for the spiritual, social, and intellectual well being of our senior members.  Age requirements are 55 & older.

Focus Scripture:
Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore we get wisdom.  Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Meeting Schedule:
The 3rd Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: Seniorsministry@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

S.O.L.O

S.O.L.O. (Saving Ourselves for the Lord with Obedience), the singles ministry of Empowerment Temple, is dedicated to encouraging, educating and empowering Christian singles to live their lives with abundance, excellence, and integrity.  Our theme is Singles Taking Authority and Reigning (STAAR).  The goal of SOLO is to provide activities, which focus on the total person.  Our activities include Bible studies, fellowships, social outings and civic opportunities.

Focus Scripture:
Romans 5:17 For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through that one man, Jesus Christ.

Meeting Schedule:
SOLO meets for Friday-Nite-Freedom, the 3rd Friday of every month from 7:00 p.m. -9:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217.

Email: solo@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

SPICE

The S.P.I.C.E. (Single Parent In Christian Empowerment ) Ministry  is designed to empower single parents, to nurture and build strong families, develop parent/child communication, and to be actively involved in their children’s education and lives.  We aim to seek new and effective concepts toward strengthening parenting skills by applying God’s word to our lives, to become stronger when faced with issues, and to maintain a strong family structure through self-control and discipline.

Focus Scripture:
Proverbs 22: 6 Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it

Meeting Schedule:
Every 3rd Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217

Email: spice@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

TEEN TEMPLE

Teen Temple is a ministry designed to address the spiritual needs of young people between the ages of 12-17, and to empower them to become responsible leaders. .

Focus Scripture:
1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Meeting Schedule:
2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at the Forum Caterers.

Email: teentemple@empowermenttemple.org
_____________________________________

WAR : A ministry for women, focused on spiritual growth and development, service to God and community, and social enrichment.

Focus Scripture
Proverbs 31:29-31 Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.  Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Meeting Schedule:
Every 3rd Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. at the Family Life Center, 1505 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217  (we do not meet in July and August).

Email: war@empowermenttemple.org

Jesus House

The Covenant Agreement At Empowerment Temple:

UNDERSTANDING COVENANT
In the Bible, a covenant is a relationship based upon mutual commitments. It typically involves promises, obligations, and rituals. Covenant is how God has chosen to communicate to us, to redeem us, and to guarantee us eternal life in Jesus. These truths, revealed in the Bible, are the basis of Christianity. The Bible is a covenant document. The Old and New Testaments are really Old and New Covenants.
Covenants are seen in the Scripture between individuals (Genesis 21:32; 1 Samuel 18:3), between one person and a group of people (Genesis 26:28; 1 Samuel 11:1-2), between nations (Exodus 23:32; 34:12; Hosea 12:1) and between God and man. Blessings accrue to those who are faithful, curses to those who aren’t.
SCRIPTURES FOR COVENANT
To understand the Word of God accurately one must become familiar with the eight biblical covenants. They fall into two classes:
Conditional (guarantees that God will do His part when the human meets his/her requirements stipulated); and Unconditional (its fulfillment is promised by God and depends upon God’s power and sovereignty for its fulfillment).
The EDENIC covenant (conditional), Gen. 1:26-31; 2:16-17; Gen. 3:15.
The ADAMIC covenant (unconditional), Gen. 3:14-19
The NOAHIC covenant (unconditional), Gen 6:8, Gen 9:1-18,
The ABRAHAMIC covenant (unconditional), Gen. 12:1-4; 13:14-17; 15:1-7, 18 17:1-14, Gal 3:15-17,
The MOSAIC covenant (conditional), Ex. 20:1 – 31:18, Ex. 24:4-8, Deut 6:25, Levi 18:, Rm10:1-5, Gal 3:8-26,
The LAND covenant (unconditional), Deut. 30:1-10
The DAVIDIC covenant (unconditional), 2Sam. 7:4-16; 1Chron. 17:3-15, Ps 89:3-4;19-20;25;27;29;33-34
The NEW COVENANT (unconditional), Jer. 31:31-40, Galatians 4:24, Hebrews 7:22 8:6-13 9:15-23 12:24, Heb. 5:9, Eph. 2:20-22, Col. 1:18,
Eph. 5:23.
PROMISSORY PRINCIPLES OF COVENANT
To attend worship services and Bible Studies
To tithe
To consecrate in prayer
To reflect devotedly in the season of lent
To serve in at least one ministry for two hours a month
The Covenant Covertp.qxd 2/14/07 2:35 PM Page 6Team Contact Informat

Empowerment Temple AME Church
www.empowermenttemple.org
The Covenant Covertp.qxd 2/14/07 2:35 PM Page 2Order of Worship
Praise & Worship
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Litany
Empowerment Temple Video Presentation
12 Tribes of Empowerment Temple
Announcements
Selection
The Charge • The Challenge • The Covenant
The Commitment
Invitation to Christ
Offering
Benediction

WORSHIP TEAM
Choir
Dance Ministry
Intercessory Prayer
Altar Guild
Ambassadors
Security
Hospitality
ADMINISTRATION
Communications/Personal Call Ministry
Facility Upkeep
New Members Ministry
Office Support
410-225-3494 410-225-3494
Economic Development
Strategic Development Team
OUTREACH
Minister Chris Brown, Team Leader
cbrown@empowermenttemple.org
410-225-3494 ext. 526
Homeless
410-225-3494
Prison
410-225-3494
WMS
410-225-3494
Seniors
410-225-3494
Street Evangelism
410-225-3494 ext. 531
HIV – AIDS
410-225-3494 Phone
Global Missions
410-225-3494 Phone
PROMOTION & P.R. MEDIA
410-225-3494 ext. 529
Newsletter (Echoes of Empowerment:
Anniversary Edition)
410-225-3494
The Covenant Covertp.qxd 2/14/07 2:35 PM Page 10Team Contact Information
Gathering of the Greats
CHRISTIAN LIFE
410-225-3494
Sunday School
Mid-day Service (FLC)
Marriage Enrichment
Christian Parenting/SPICE
410-225-3494 410-225-3494
YPD – Early Childhood Development
SOLO – Singles
ARTS AND CULTURE
Book Club
Monthly Film Festival
EDUCATION & LITERACY
GED, Math, Science, Computer,
Reading & After School
Tutorial Programs
Liaison: Loren McCaskill
Financial Literacy
RESURRECTION SUNDAY
OVERSIGHT
HEALTH & FITNESS
Wellness Program
MENTAL HEALTH
1st Mariner Arena
201 W. Baltimore St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
The Covenant Covertp.qxd 2/14/07 2:35 PM Page 15Service Times
Worship Services Sundays – 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.
Teen Temple 2nd & 4th Sundays – 11:15 a.m.
Sunday School 9:30 a.m.
Children’s Church Sunday – 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday Bible Study 7:30 p.m.
Men’s Bible Study 1st Saturday – 9:00 a.m.
Women’s Bible Study 1st Saturday – 10:15 a.m.
MIT I 1st Saturday – 12:00 noon
MIT II 1st Wednesday – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday Rush Hour Prayer 6:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.
Sunday Rush Hour Prayer 6:30 a.m.
Empowermenttemple.org Every Service Live
The Covenant Covertp.qxd 2/14/07 2:35 PM Page 16Empowerment Tribes
Cell groups are divided according to the first initial of last names. If you need help in finding a home cell group or would like to participate in leadership, you can call or email your respective Tribal Leader.
Tribe Letters Leaders Contact: 410.225.3494
Reuben A, G, I, Q Leroya A. Cothran tribereuben@@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 301
Simeon B Shiree M. Southerland tribesimeon@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 302
Judah C, K Mario Scott tribejudah@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 303
Zebulun D, E, F Benita Keene tribezebulun@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 304
Issachar H Charlene A. Johnson tribeissachar@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 305
Ephraim J Regina Nsubuga tribeephraim@@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 306
Manasseh R, X, Z Dana MacDonald tribemanasseh@@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 307
Dan M Joanne A. Montaque tribedan@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 308
Gad N,O,P,U,Y Joann and Frank Holly tribegad@@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 309
Asher S Harry Smith tribeasher@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 310
Naphtali T, L, V Rachel G. Heggins tribenaphtali@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 311
Benjamin W Dolores l. Winston tribebenjamin@empowermenttemple.org • Ext 312
Min. Ronnie Nsubuga • Coordinator: 410.225.3494 ext 533 • Email: rnsubuga@empowermenttemple.org
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JOIN A HOME CELL GROUP
www.empowermenttribes.org

What is a Cell Group?
A Cell Group (or Home Cell) is a small group of people who are committed to first of all building up one another, and secondly to fulfill the great commission in reaching out to the lost. They meet together weekly, as well as having contact with other people throughout the week. The Cell is like a larger family than just your own. It is comparable to the cells in a human body that provide protection, communication, life, sustenance etc.  Likewise the Cell Group is there for protection, edification, acceptance, support and communication.  Your Commitment to the Cell Group. The Cell will challenge and encourage your level of growth and commitment. In the Cell you will discover your ministry and gifting and you will find the joy of receiving a blessing but more important, of being a blessing. Your participation will help build up the rest of the group. Make a decision not to allow anyone or anything to hinder you from attending your Home Cell. Your Contribution to the Group
You are a valuable member of your group. God expects you to be actively involved in the growth of other Cell Members. The Holy Spirit will give you spiritual gifts to help you minister to the rest of the group (1 Corinthians 12:7-12). You can also help your Cell Group by doing practical things for them and using your talents or abilities to help them. Commit to your Cell and allow the Lord to use you and work through you to edify His body.
BENEFITS
• Meet Weekly
• In depth discussion of Pastor Bryant’s Sermon notes
• Build a support network team
• Opportunity to serve and be recognized in Ministry
• Free customized Bible material from Pastor Bryant
VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE AND GET A PASSWORD TO DOWNLOAD INFORMATION: http://www.empowermenttribes.org

Empowerment Temple AME Church
4217-21 Primrose Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215 • 443-738-0460
Administration Office
1505 Eutaw Place
Baltimore, MD 21217 • 410-225-3494
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John 4:23 (ESV) 23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and  truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.

 

Posted by Minister Evelyn Diane Thomas, In honor of 40 days of Lent: Churches (All houses of Worship that lift up the Name of God)

Are You Normal? Do you behave like everyone else?

Are You Normal?: Do You Behave Like Everyone Else?
Here is a wonderful little book that my son Jermaine gave me a few years back and I found it to be a very interesting read.. Are you Normal? by Bernice Kanner -In honor of 40 days of Lenten Season, today’s word of the day that we are praying and discussion is “Challenges” .. This book helps you to think about the basic challenges a lot of face from day to day… Have you ever wondered are you like everybody else, or do you just fit in a class all by yourself.. It’s all good, and I would like to highly recommend this wonderful book that I totally enjoyed reading…

Minister Evelyn Diane Thomas

 

by Robert Todd Carroll

2.3 out of 5 stars (3) $48.24

by Jamal Bryant,…

4.3 out of 5 stars (6) $10.94

Thumbnail for What the Bible Says...What the Bible Says…

by Rex Russell M.D.

4.8 out of 5 stars (68) $9.99

by Peter G Miller

Are You Normal? Book Description

Publication Date: September 15, 1995
Find out how you fit into the American norm…From sea to shining sea, Americans are remarkably alike, incredibly different, and just plain strange. In this clever, fun and fascinating peek into the private lives of real Americans, columnist Bernice Kanner shares a delicious slice of American pie with humorous facts like:-Of the half of us who have pets at home, 45.5% allow them in the room during sex.
-One out of every four ice cream orders is vanilla; only one in nine is for chocolate
-Four out of ten of us admit we’ve been so mad we’ve hurled footwear at another person
-60% of men spit in public
-One in ten people say they have seen a ghost
-Almost one quarter of us regularly check ourselves out in store windows and mirrors
-7 out of 100 Americans have flossed their teeth with their hair
-Over 27% of people skip ahead to find out what will happen in a book before they finish it
Review “A wonderfully entertaining book that tells you what you’ve always wanted to know-how you compare to other people.”–Ladies’ Home Journal”As irresistible as salted peanuts!”–Esquire”A statistical delight.”–Reader’s Digest

About the Author

Bernice Kanner is a columnist for Bloomberg Business News for radio, TV, and print. For thirteen years, she wrote the “On Madison Avenue” column for New York magazine. Her articles have appeared widely in The New York Times, Parade, Ladies’ Home Journal and Glamour, among other publications. Are You Normal? grew out of an article for New York magazine and was reprinted by Reader’s Digest. Kanner and Are You Normal? have been featured on Oprah. She lives with her family in New York City.

My favorite book of the year~ Dr. Jamal Bryant!  (A must read: Minister Evelyn Thomas !)

by: Dr. Jamal Bryant,…

Are You Normal?: Do You Behave Like Everyone Else?

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eGift This Item (What’s this?)eGift This Item

Product Details

    • Paperback: 122 pages
    • Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks; First Edition edition (September 15, 1995)
    • Language: English
    • ISBN-10: 0312955928
    • ISBN-13: 978-0312955922
    • Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.5 x 0.3 inches
    • Shipping Weight: 7 ounces

Posted by:  Minister Thomas – This is the book I recommend for the day in honor of 40 days of  Lenten Season Day 28 – “Challenges”
Information cited and provided by: Amazon.com  http://www.amazon.com/Are-You-Normal-Behave-Everyone/dp/0312955928