What Does the Bible Say About Discipleship: 4 Fundamentals

By

-

April 10, 2024

What does the Bible say about discipleship — and how can you equip and guide young people to go make disciples for Jesus? Read on to discover four key aspects of biblical discipleship.

The process of leading teenagers to become more authentic Christ-followers looks slightly different from place to place. (Granted, some common distinctives exist, for sure.) Our specific ministry contexts dictate our processes, to some extent. Our church structure, age group breakdown, and number of adult volunteers also dictate our disciple-making processes.

But no matter our specific process, some unique characteristics of Jesus’ model of discipleship must appear. If we look at how Jesus led the 12 on their discipleship journey, we can see at least four characteristics of biblical discipleship.

What Does the Bible Say About Discipleship

1. It’s a Call to Something.

When Jesus called the disciples, He called them to a purpose, a goal of sorts.

Luke 5:10-11—Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

Matthew 9:9—As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.

Matthew 16:24—Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

I think this characteristic is missing in many discipleship efforts. Too often we take this characteristic for granted. Do your teenagers see their faith as a movement? Do they see themselves as part of a mission? Or do they view faith as little more than a moralistic framework to live as good people? How many students are you “discipling” simply because their parents just keep dropping them off?

Jesus called His disciples to be part of a world-changing movement. The call is still the same today. We just have to make sure we’re not underselling or misrepresenting it. How many of your students, if you asked them right now, could articulate a purpose or vision behind the disciple-making process they’re undergoing? Young people must understand the call and accept the task.

2. We Must Faithfully Teach the Bible.

“Faithful” as in true, accurate, deep and transformative. “Teaching” as in helping kids know and apply the truth of Scripture. And “the Bible” as in God’s primary tool for the foundation for discipleship. We see this throughout the Bible:

Proverbs 1:7—The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Matthew 5:1-2—Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them, saying … .

Luke 24:27—And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

Mark 4:2—He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said … .

We have to lay the foundation for discipleship in how we teach students the Bible. At ym360, we work hard to help you in this area. If you’re looking for a fresh approach to Bible study material, consider these true, accurate, deep and transformative resources: The Jesus Studies, The Elements Curriculum, The All-Access Bundle, New: First Steps for new believers and DNow Online.

Digital Prayer: A New Invitation to a Sacred Conversation

By

Brad Hill

-

April 10, 2024

Picture this: It’s Easter Sunday, and a visitor who hasn’t been to church since Christmas Eve is in attendance. She feels stress at work, angst from social media and the news, and sadness at home. In fact, she wouldn’t mind if someone prayed for her, even though she rarely prays.

Then, during the service, the pastor invites people to take a prayer request card, fill it out, and pass it down to the end of their row. Does she do it? Does she put her most intimate requests on a piece of paper and pass it down the row for anyone to read? Is this really the best way to engage in prayer for this woman?

Easter is one of the biggest moments of the year when many people return their attention to spiritual practices and, hopefully, to God. Of those practices, prayer is arguably the most prominent spiritual practice of faith among Christians, and even among those of other faiths or no spiritual affiliation.

A praying church community is also a powerful “needle-mover” for what pastors say is their top list of challenges: reaching more people outside the church, engaging and keeping the people they have, mobilizing more volunteers and building relationships with people who attend church online, but otherwise remain anonymous.

One way to expand the practice of prayer is through digital prayer. You may ask, “Does praying over text or email count? Is it as sacred as praying for them in person?” Yes, it is. Digital prayer is still prayer, because prayer is about building a relationship with God and others. In this age when relationships fluidly move between in-person and virtual, digital prayer is simply another mode of spiritual practice.

Why digital? Churches that leverage digital tools to power prayer often see up to 10x the prayer activity they did before. But I’ve seen even more ways church leaders can use digitally-powered prayer.

As Outreach

Prayer can succeed in reaching and serving people where other methods don’t. Consider one campaign partner we work with at Gloo, Churches Care. Among the digital ads they run on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google, the ads that generate the most responses include the question, “How can we pray for you?” When someone responds to an ad with a prayer request, my team at Gloo connects them with a local church nearby.

The local church connects with the individual, praying for their requested needs. What’s even more powerful are the days and weeks that follow, when a deeper relationship begins to form between the pastor or staff member and that individual.

Authentic relationships made possible through digital connection.

As Church Engagement

Because people are finding spiritual content from a wider variety of places, pastors’ touch points with their congregants have become fewer. Intercessory prayer is a powerful way for church leaders to stay connected, build powerful relational bonds and show people that your church cares and is there for them—inside and outside of church.

Children’s Ministry Event Ideas: 5 Tried-and-True Outreach Activities

By

ChildrensMinistry.com

-

April 9, 2024

Children’s ministry event ideas help spread the Gospel. Plus, these activities make people aware of your church programs. Encourage families at your church to reach out and share God’s love in your community with these 5 outreach ideas.

Want to connect with families in your church and reach out to families in your community? Both are possible when you use children’s ministry outreach ideas and events.

5 Family-Friendly Children’s Ministry Event Ideas

We asked kidmin leaders to share their favorite children’s ministry event ideas. Adapt one (or more) of these outreach activities at your church!

1. Random Act of (Keep Coming Back) Kindness

We do Random Acts of Kindness events that last several weeks. I distribute envelopes weekly with an act of kindness inside for families to do together. Throughout the week, families send me photos of them doing the activity to post on Facebook and Instagram. We set up a hashtag so every time a family completes one “RAK,” they can tag it.

Each week’s envelope is labeled Secret RAK Mission. Inside is a card outlining the mission, a list of any items needed to complete it, and several RAK cards describing what our church families are doing and why. We also include invitations for recipients to join us at church services. Some RAK missions our families have done include:

Make cookies and deliver them to a neighbor or friend.
Put a sealed bag of uncooked microwave popcorn in a resealable bag and tape it to a Redbox or something similar.
Make a card for someone who’s ill, lonely, or confined to home.
Tape coins to gumball machines and candy dispensers as a fun surprise for children to find.

Each week, families are excited to get their secret mission. I receive lots of texts and photos from our families showing their efforts. Some families without kids request cards so they can participate in the secret missions each week, too.

Bethany Hardy
Lafayette, Indiana

2. Box of (Boomerang) Blessings

To keep families in our church engaged and forming relationships, we do Boxes of Blessings. We deliver boxes packed with food and lots of love to families in need. This project provides a common goal for our families over an extended time period.

For six weeks before the actual “boxing” event, we collect food. Each week, we ask families to collect and bring specific items. We always include kid-friendly food, coloring books, and crayons. After the church-wide collection is complete, families gather to make cards for each box and assemble the boxes.

We partner with a local food pantry to select the families who will receive the boxes. Our families personally deliver the Boxes of Blessings, from one family—and our church family—to another.

Sarah Trosen
Marshalltown, Iowa

3. Meetcha at the Four-Way

Our church is out in the country, located near a four-way stop. We’re allowed to set up tables throughout the year for various things such as bake sales and other fundraisers. In the spring, our church families use it to bless the community. We give away free tomato and pepper plants at the stop. The plants are a gift—no strings attached, no preaching. We just show love from our families to our community.

Families make signs representing our church. But we don’t hand out church materials, preach, or even invite anyone to church. It isn’t about drumming up new members or making anyone feel anything other than God’s love. Our families give plants to every person who stops at the four-way. The giveaway is a great success, and families feel great giving back.

One of the best benefits is that people aren’t surprised to see us at the four-way now. We use the location to announce our annual free community barbecue, where our families provide the labor and serve hundreds in the neighborhood. We use the four-way to let everyone know about our fall festival in October and when we’ll feed the high school football team at the beginning of each season.

Our church is where our families connect and grow in faith. But our four-way stop is where families in the community look for us, curious to know what we’re up to next.

Cheryl Bolton
Valley, Alabama

Confronting Addiction in Church Leadership: Overcome Negative Mindsets

By

Kevin Boer

-

April 9, 2024

Confronting addiction is a topic youth workers and ministry leaders should care about. Why? The answers might surprise you. Read on for one youth pastor’s story. Plus, discover tips for overcoming negative habits and mindsets.

I live for the rush. I love pushing boundaries and going farther than anyone intends. And I’ll try something just so I can say I’ve accomplished it. I’m so thankful the Holy Spirit called me to focus that “rush” mentality into the Great Commission!

You see, I’m a second-generation Christian with a family history of substance abuse and addiction. So I know the sins of my fathers. Maybe my rush to do new things is a reaction to avoid “big” sins. But in the process, still I stumbled into addictive behavior.

I recognized my self-addiction when I fasted from coffee. Yeah, I gave up caffeine to get to know Jesus better. But the withdrawals were horrible! While abstaining, I realized I wasn’t serving to glorify God. No, I’d been trying to gratify my selfish desires through working for Jesus. I was in trouble.

Confronting Addiction Symptoms

These symptoms of addiction caught my attention. They made me realize I was a workaholic for Jesus.

Continuing despite significant detrimental effects on relationships, education, health, etc.
Frequently using more (or longer) than originally intended.
Frequent cravings.
Failing to address important obligations as a result.
Continuing to use when it may be physically dangerous. Examples include while driving, working, or watching children.
Inability to cut down or stop using even though you want to.
Developing a tolerance.
Developing withdrawal symptoms.

Addiction isn’t just for rebels. It isn’t limited to “bad sins” like drugs, porn, and alcoholism. Christian addiction is evident in many areas. These include seeking comfort, controlling other people, curating an image, performing good works, a propensity for laziness… The list goes on.

Now, I’m not minimizing substance abuse and other addictions. I’m advocating that we realize we all struggle. And addictions hurt people. They hurt the addicts, families, churches, teens in our ministries, and coworkers.

So please take a moment, leader. Ask if pleasing yourself has become an addiction. If you answered yes, then you’re addicted to you. And it’s killing your soul.

Confronting Addiction: What Scripture Says

Paul challenges the Philippian church to follow Jesus’ example. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)

Youth ministers must recognize we’re leading God’s people. If we aren’t stewarding our soul, then we miss other people’s needs. Self-focus replaces generosity. Evangelism evaporates. Our role becomes an empty list of responsibilities instead of Spirit-led obedience.

Satan Cast Out of Heaven? Unveiling the Biblical Narrative

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

satan cast out of heaven bible verse — Adobestock #577193889

The tale of Satan’s expulsion from heaven is among the most riveting narratives found within the scriptures, encapsulating a profound spiritual saga of rebellion, judgement, and consequences. This story not only reveals the origins of evil but also offers invaluable insights into the cosmic battle between good and evil. Why Satan was Satan cast out of Heaven? Who witnessed his fall, and what were the subsequent roles and punishments designated to him.

Why Was Satan Cast Out of Heaven?

Satan, once known as Lucifer, was cast out of heaven due to his insurmountable pride and ambition to ascend above his Creator. Isaiah 14:12-15 poignantly describes his intention to “ascend to the heavens” and “raise his throne above the stars of God.” This rebellion against the Almighty’s sovereign rule was the catalyst for his downfall, marking the transition from a revered angel to the adversary of God and humanity.

“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.”

Jesus Himself in Luke 10:18, remarked, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” This statement underscores the swiftness and definitiveness of Satan’s expulsion, witnessed by Christ, highlighting the magnitude of the rebellion and its immediate consequences.

Prior to his fall, Satan was considered one of the highest-ranking angels, adorned with beauty and wisdom. Ezekiel 28:13-17, although metaphorically addressing the King of Tyre, is traditionally interpreted to also describe Satan’s original state, showcasing his proximity to the divine until iniquity was found in him.

The Origin of Satan

Satan’s origin is shrouded in mystery, with scriptures suggesting he was created as a perfect being, an anointed cherub, until pride led to his sin. The concept of Satan’s fall presupposes the existence of free will among angelic beings, allowing for the possibility of rebellion.

Satan’s punishment was his expulsion from the presence of God, cast down to the earth as a consequence of his rebellion. Revelation 12:7-9 narrates the war in heaven and Satan’s defeat, resulting in his earthly banishment. This punishment signifies not only a physical but also a spiritual separation from God. The sin of Satan lies in his pride and attempt to usurp God’s authority. This led to what can be termed as a spiritual death, a complete separation from God’s grace. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of pride and disobedience.

Jesus and the Leper: A Testament of Compassion and Power

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

The interactions between Jesus and lepers in the Bible are not just miraculous stories of healing but are profound lessons on compassion, faith, and the breaking of societal taboos. These narratives, found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, highlight the significance of Jesus’ willingness to touch and heal those afflicted with leprosy—a condition that not only ravaged the body but also ostracized sufferers from their communities. This blog delves into these encounters, exploring the significance of Jesus’ actions, the lessons we can learn from them, and the impact of these stories on faith and understanding of divine compassion.

The Healing Touch: Jesus and the Lepers

In the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 8:1-4)

The story begins when a leper approaches Jesus, showcasing a profound level of faith and desperation. “I am willing; be cleansed,” Jesus responds, touching the man, which immediately heals him. This act was revolutionary, not just because of the miraculous healing, but because Jesus physically touched someone whom society deemed untouchable. Jesus instructed the healed man to show himself to the Priest and follow the rites of purification, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law and ensuring that the healing was acknowledged officially.

In the Gospel of Mark (Mark 1:40-45)

A similar narrative unfolds in Mark, where a leper kneels before Jesus, begging for healing. Jesus, moved with compassion, extends his hand and touches the man, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” This healing, too, comes with instructions not to tell anyone but to present himself to the Priest. The healed man, however, spread the news, increasing Jesus’ fame and complicating his movements due to the throngs of people seeking him out.

In the Gospel of Luke (Luke 17:11-19)

Luke’s account brings a collective healing into focus. Jesus encounters ten lepers, who stand at a distance, as was customary, crying out for mercy. Healed by Jesus’ command, only one returns to offer thanks—a Samaritan, underscoring the theme of gratitude and the breaking down of ethnic and religious barriers.

Key Lessons from Jesus’ Interactions with the Lepers

The Significance of Touch

Jesus’ willingness to touch those with leprosy broke significant social and religious taboos of the time. This act was a radical display of love and acceptance, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God’s compassion. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human touch and connection, especially to those who feel isolated or marginalized.

A Testament to Faith and Gratitude

The healing of the lepers emphasizes the role of faith in receiving God’s blessings and the importance of gratitude. The lepers’ approach to Jesus—a mix of desperation and hope—mirrors the faith required to seek divine intervention in our lives. The return of the Samaritan leper to give thanks highlights the necessity of recognizing and being grateful for the blessings we receive.

‘To Hell With the Devil’—For KING & COUNTRY Team Up With Lecrae and Stryper

By

Jesse T. Jackson

-

April 9, 2024

Lecrae for KING & COUNTRY Stryper — Screengrab via YouTube @for KING + COUNTRY

This past Friday (April 5), Grammy Award-winning Christian music powerhouse for KING & COUNTRY, which is comprised of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, released a creative cover of Stryper’s iconic Christian metal song “To Hell With The Devil (RISE).”

The track appears on the upcoming soundtrack for the film “Unsung Hero,” a biopic that tells the story of how the Smallbone family moved from Australia to the U.S. after their Christian music company financially crumbled.

Joel co-wrote and stars as his father in the film alongside Daisy Betts, Candance Cameron Bure, Lucas Black, Terry O’Quinn, and Hillary Scott.

For KING & COUNTRY spared no creative expense with their version of the 1986 Christian metal song, joining forces with Grammy Award-winning Christian rapper Lecrae and Grammy Award-nominee Stryper.

“What a cover this is, and a bit of an outrageous one at that,” for KING & COUNTRY said. “One of our earliest memories is sitting in front of a record player holding a vinyl 45 of Stryper’s ‘The Yellow & Black Attack’ cover.”

“This song was a fun one to reinvent and think through as a duo and Lecrae, performing what we believe is one of his greatest raps yet; coupled with Michael Sweet reinventing his iconic guitar solo at the end,” they added.

The band concluded, “We even added a new section to the song, talking about rising out of ‘darkness into light’…we hope this one brings a bit of new energy to your listening endeavors.”

Stryper appears in “Unsung Hero,” although the band is played by actors. The film depicts when the Smallbones’ father was the promoter for Stryper’s Australia tour in the 1980s.

On Instagram, Stryper’s lead vocalist Michael Sweet thanked for KING & COUNTRY for letting him sing and play on the new track. “I’ll never forget the first time I met you guys (you were toddlers sitting on my lap) and now you’re conquering the world,” he said. “I’m thrilled to know that we played a small part in that.”

The entire soundtrack, which features covers of Michael W. Smith’s “Place in This World,” Seal’s “Crazy” and Amy Grant’s “Lead Me On,” drops on April 26—the same day the movie “Unsung Hero” debuts in theaters.

Megachurch Pastor Says ‘Sorry for Careless Words’ About Wedding Night but Defends ‘A Little Joking Around’

By

Jessica Mouser

-

April 9, 2024

Texas Pastor Josh Howerton again defended comments he made in February about how men and women should behave on the wedding day and the wedding night, respectively. He also apologized for “careless words” and “if that joke fell on you the wrong way.”

“A couple weeks ago right after, the week after marriage night, I tossed out a joke—emphasis [on the] word ‘joke,’” said Howerton at the beginning of a sermon on Sunday, April 7. “I tossed out a joke at the beginning of a message, about men and women planning their wedding days and wedding nights. And it became a thing.”

“Here’s what happened. Somebody grabbed that clip of that joke,” he said, “they clipped off the part of the joke to men, kept the part of the joke to women, and then clipped off the end of the joke before you could tell it was a joke.”

That person “then presented it—uh, Dallas Morning News, hashtag—presented it as ‘Pastor Josh’s advice to women,’” Howerton said, alluding to an April 1 article on the controversy in The Dallas Morning News.

Josh Howerton Addresses Wedding Comments

Josh Howerton, senior pastor of Dallas-area Lakepointe Church, began his Sunday message by celebrating the nearly 40,000 people who attended his church in person on Easter, as well as by celebrating the more than 2,000 people who decided to follow Jesus in one week.

Before moving on to his sermon about Jesus turning water into wine, Howerton said that he needed to “address a thing” that he had not wanted to discuss on Easter Sunday. The “thing” the pastor referred to was comments he made during a February sermon that recently went viral after author and podcaster Sheila Gregoire posted them on X (formerly Twitter) March 28.

In those remarks, which Howerton originally introduced as “a gold nugget of advice I was given by a mentor,” he told future grooms on their wedding days to “stand where she tells you to stand, wear what she tells you to wear, and do what she tells you to do. You’ll make her the happiest woman in the world.”

To future brides, Howerton said that on their wedding nights, they should “stand where he tells you to stand, wear what he tells you to wear, and do what he tells you to do, and you’re gonna make him the happiest man in the world.”

Israel and the End Times: Unraveling Words of Prophecy

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

israel and the end times — Adobe Stock #278519735

The intertwining of Israel’s existence with the eschatological predictions of the end times is a captivating and complex narrative that has piqued the curiosity and fervor of scholars, theologians, and believers worldwide. The establishment of Israel as a sovereign nation in 1948 ignited a theological discourse surrounding its prophetic significance, particularly in relation to Biblical prophecies and the anticipation of the Second Coming of Christ. This discourse encompasses a plethora of viewpoints, interpretations, and scholarly analyses that delve into the historical, spiritual, and prophetic dimensions of Israel’s role in the end times.

The Prophetic Fulfillment: Israel’s Establishment and Biblical Prophecy

The re-establishment of Israel is often heralded as a pivotal fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, marking it as a significant signpost on the timeline towards the end times. Some people posit that the sequence of events since 1948 aligns with the prophetic scripts outlined in the Bible, signifying the approach of the Second Coming.

Specific prophecies, such as the Tribulation and the Rapture, underscore the tumultuous conflicts and wars in the region as precursors to these prophesied events. However, we should be cautioned that not all prophecies have reached fruition, leaving the timeline to the Second Coming indeterminate.

Diverse Interpretations: The Complexity of Prophecy

Contrasting perspectives challenge the notion that current events or the very statehood of Israel can be directly interpreted as prophetic fulfillments. Critics argue that the Biblical texts do not provide unequivocal evidence to forecast specific occurrences, pointing out that the theme of end times transcends religions and cultures, historically manifesting across various belief systems.

Moreover, they contend that Israel’s trials and tribulations should be viewed through the lens of divine compassion and mercy towards the Jewish people, rather than as mere fulfillments of prophecy.

The Contemporary Lens: Israel-Palestine Conflict and End Times

The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict introduces a modern dimension to the discourse, with some interpreting these events as indicators of the approaching end times. This perspective, while not universally accepted, demonstrates the inclination among believers and prophecy enthusiasts to contextualize contemporary geopolitical conflicts within the Biblical narrative of the end times.

Biblical References and Divine Intentions

The Biblical narrative offers profound insights into God’s relationship with Israel, its fall, and its indefatigable spirit, which refuses to succumb to destruction. Scriptures illuminate God’s covenant with Israel, emphasizing its unique role and significance to Him.

God’s Covenant with Israel and Its Indestructibility

The Bible is replete with passages affirming Israel’s significance to God and its role in His divine plan. Notably, scriptures such as Jeremiah 31:35-37 and Isaiah 66:22 underscore the eternal nature of God’s covenant with Israel, ensuring its perseverance against all odds. This covenant highlights Israel’s indispensable role in the divine narrative, reaffirming its importance to God and its unwavering existence despite historical and future challenges.

The Chosen People: Israel’s Divine Mandate

The selection of the Jewish people as God’s chosen ones is a recurring theme in the Bible, articulated in Deuteronomy 7:6-8 and Exodus 19:5-6. This choice is not predicated on the superiority of the Jews but rather on God’s love and the promises made to their ancestors. It entrusts them with the responsibility to be a “light unto the nations,” upholding and disseminating the principles of faith and righteousness.

‘We Are the Church’—Palestinian Pastor Calls for Unity Among Christians Amid Israel-Hamas War

By

Dale Chamberlain

-

April 9, 2024

Ziyad Bannoura — Palestinians cross into Israel through a checkpoint in Bethlehem, West Bank, on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean)

The birthplace of Jesus Christ is only about five miles from Israel’s capital. But as the war between Israel and Hamas wages on, Bethlehem and Jerusalem are worlds apart.

While Jerusalem and Bethlehem are both the home of sacred sites for Christians, they stand on opposite sides of a restricted border, and travel to and from Bethlehem, which is governed by the Palestinian National Authority, has been kept to a minimum.

For Palestinian and Israeli Christians who have been seeking to foster community across national and ethnic lines, the war has hampered their efforts. But it has not stifled their hope.

One of those Christians, Palestinian Pastor Ziyad Bannoura, recently spoke to ChurchLeaders about his experiences before and during the war, sharing his hope for peace and unity.

For more than two decades, Bannoura has been serving as a minister in Bethlehem. For the past two years, he has led The Great Joy Ministry, whose purpose is “to restore the hope and joy in the hearts of people.”

While he has lived in Palestinian Bethlehem his whole life, Bannoura received his Master of Arts in Christian Ministry from Israel College of the Bible and has long striven to forge connections with Israeli Christians.

“I have many Jewish friends, especially believers,” Bannoura said. “Now, I cannot see them.”

On Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas began the war by launching a terrorist attack against Israel, Bannoura was in America visiting family and raising support for his ministry. When he returned to Bethlehem in February, he discovered that “the situation is very awful for people here.”

“The city is under closure,” Bannoura said, adding that unemployment has risen sharply, as many residents of Bethlehem were previously employed in Jerusalem but have not been allowed to enter the city.

Those who work in Bethlehem have also experienced financial hardship, as the city’s economy is largely built around tourism—something that has not been a feature of life in Bethlehem for the past six months.

“Now, nobody’s coming and things are very bad,” Bannoura said. “Even with the people that used to have money, they don’t have money.” Bannoura said that some restrictions are beginning to loosen, but “it’s not enough.”

Correction With Love: The Biblical Meaning of Rebuke

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

rebuke bible meaning — Adobestock #662424447

Understanding the concept of rebuke within the Bible is essential for deepening one’s faith and spiritual discipline. The term “rebuke” often carries a negative connotation in our daily language, but when viewed through the lens of scripture, it embodies a powerful tool for correction, guidance, and love.

The Bible Meaning of Rebuke

The Bible meaning of rebuke is best defined as an expression of strong disapproval or correction, often motivated by love and a desire for the spiritual growth of the recipient. It’s a means to bring light to wrongdoing or sin, encouraging repentance and a closer relationship with God.

How the Word of God Rebukes Us

The Word of God serves as a mirror to our souls, revealing the truths we often ignore or deny. Through scripture, God rebukes us by convicting us of sin, illuminating the path of righteousness, and guiding us back to Him. Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword,” able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

To say “I rebuke you” in a biblical sense is to express disapproval or correction, not out of hatred, but out of love and concern for the individual’s spiritual well-being. It is a call to repentance and restoration, aiming to guide the person back onto the path of righteousness. A synonym for rebuke found in the Bible is “admonish.” To admonish someone is to warn or reprimand them firmly, often in a gentle or compassionate manner, with the intention of correcting or improving.

An example of rebuke in the Bible is when Nathan the prophet confronts King David over his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-14). Nathan’s rebuke leads David to repentance, demonstrating the transformative power of godly rebuke.

To rebuke someone with a Bible verse means to wisely and lovingly apply scripture in a way that aims to correct behavior or beliefs that are contrary to God’s will. It requires sensitivity, understanding, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to ensure that the rebuke is timely, appropriate, and effective.

God rebukes people through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and life circumstances. These rebukes are acts of love, meant to correct and guide us back to a right relationship with Him. They are opportunities for growth and deeper understanding of His will.

Jesus rebuked individuals and groups throughout the New Testament for various reasons, such as hypocrisy (Matthew 23:13-36) and hindering children from coming to Him (Mark 10:14). These rebukes were always rooted in love and aimed at spiritual awakening and correction.

New Vatican Document Condemns Gender Theory, Surrogacy

By

Claire Giangrave

-

April 9, 2024

New-Vatican-document-condemns-gender-theory- — The prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, presents the declaration 'Dignitas Infinita' (Infinite Dignity) during a press conference at the Vatican, Monday, April 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — In a new document on human dignity issued Monday (April 8), the Vatican’s department that guides Catholic doctrine reinforced the church’s opposition to abortion, surrogacy, gender theory and any attempt to change one’s sex.

“Desiring a personal self-determination, as gender theory prescribes, apart from this fundamental truth that human life is a gift, amounts to a concession to the age-old temptation to make oneself God,” the document states.

Gender theory, the document said, “intends to deny the greatest possible difference that exists between living beings: sexual difference.” It also stated that “all attempts to obscure reference to the ineliminable sexual difference between man and woman are to be rejected.”

The declaration, titled “Dignitas Infinita,” or “Infinite Dignity,” has been in the works at the Vatican for five years and went through several drafts and iterations before the final document was accepted by the Congregation for Doctrine of the Faith and by Pope Francis, whose approval gives it the weight of official doctrine.

The title of the document is drawn from a speech delivered by Pope John Paul II to a group of disabled individuals in Germany in 1980, and the document itself was signed by Francis on the 19^th anniversary of John Paul’s death, on April 2.

After a long explanation of the church’s understanding of what it calls the “inalienable and intrinsic” dignity of each human being, which it said exists from the beginning of human existence and cannot be revoked, the document quickly analyzes issues challenging human dignity today.

The declaration asserts that sex-change surgery, also known as gender-affirming surgery, “risks threatening the unique dignity the person has received from the moment of conception.”

It also says that the church “takes a stand against the practice of surrogacy,” when a woman carries a child for another person, “through which the immensely worthy child becomes a mere object.” Children “have the right to have a fully human (and not artificially induced) origin,” the document stated, adding that “the legitimate desire to have a child cannot be transformed into a ‘right to a child’ that fails to respect the dignity of that child as the recipient of the gift of life.”

The document also underlined the church’s opposition to abortion and euthanasia, while also stressing the importance of defending the inherent dignity of people living with disabilities, the elderly and those living at the margins of society, especially the poor.

It equally condemned wars and policies that leave individuals deprived of human dignity.

The pronouncement’s positions are ones the church has long held and that Francis has often confirmed. Francis has referred to gender theory as “a form of ideological colonization” that attempts to eliminate key differences in humans, and he has excoriated its concepts as Western propaganda. The pope has called surrogacy “despicable” and damaging for women, especially those living in poverty, and Vatican representatives at the United Nations have called for a global ban of the practice.

Catholic Bishops Silent as Ascension Hospital System Shrinks Maternity Care

By

Aleja Hertzler-McCain

-

April 9, 2024

Catholic — Photo credit: Christian Bowen / Unsplash

(RNS) — Christina Marea, a nurse midwife, wasn’t surprised when she saw the report from National Nurses United warning that Ascension, one of the largest Catholic health care providers in the U.S., was accelerating a trend of slashing labor and delivery units from its offerings.

In 2017, Ascension closed the labor and delivery unit at Providence Hospital in Washington, where Marea worked. Marea said that Ascension gave 60 days’ notice of the closure without coordinating with nearby facilities to make sure they could handle increased patient volume or creating a transfer plan for patients, simply handing them a list of hospitals.

Marea, now an assistant professor in midwifery at Georgetown University’s School of Nursing, said that Ascension had underinvested in Providence for years before the closure.

She remembers nurses begging Ascension for more than two baby warmers for the 12-bed unit. “We would have nurses running down the hallway, sterilizing them while they ran to get from one delivery to the next,” she said.

Providence served Black and poor patients and had the only labor and delivery unit with 24/7 access to a Spanish-speaking provider, according to Marea.

But when Ascension closed the unit, two years before it closed the hospital entirely, Marea said, “it was devastating.”

While labor and delivery units are disappearing at hospitals nationally, some health care experts have pointed out that Ascension has the resources to buck that trend. Both industry analysts and the nonprofit’s obstetric nurses are questioning whether Ascension is upholding Catholic values and those of the U.S. Catholic bishops who called for more robust maternity care before the 2022 Dobbs ruling ended the right to an abortion.

The labor and delivery closures do not “represent a culture of life that the Catholic Church and the Catholic health facilities are promoting,” said Marea.

“Historically, the Catholic hospitals have had a better reputation, mostly because of their mission,” said Jean Ross, a co-president of National Nurses United, a union that recently began representing Ascension nurses in Baltimore; Austin, Texas; and Wichita, Kansas.

Ascension closed labor and delivery departments at a higher rate than the national average from 2012 to 2021, according to a January report by the union, and to date has shuttered more than 26% of its units that existed in 2012. The closures disproportionately occurred in areas with high poverty rates and in Black and Latino communities, according to NNU’s research, populations that already face higher infant and maternal mortality.

The system’s mission statement, citing “the loving ministry of Jesus as healer,” says it is dedicated “to serving all persons with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable.”

Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin in Austin, Texas. (Photo courtesy Ascension)

Ascension, which in recent years has had upwards of $15 billion in cash reserves, had been accused of other strategic decisions that prioritized profitability over the system’s mission. Pointing to closures of “safety-net hospitals” and its outside investments, STAT News characterized Ascension in 2021 as “moonlighting as a private equity firm.”

Ge Bai, professor of accounting and health care policy and management at Johns Hopkins University, said that hospitals intent on maximizing profitability will make cuts to low-margin obstetrics and gynecology services, especially where many patients are on Medicaid.

A 2022 New York Times investigation revealed that Ascension’s executives get paid more when the system has higher excess revenue. Those strong financial metrics allow Ascension to expand further.

Turning Naysayers Into Allies: How Successful Leaders Do It

By

Gavin Adams

-

April 9, 2024

Inevitably, somebody isn’t going to agree with your decisions. If you’re a leader, you’ll make lots and lots of decisions. Some will be easy, while others will be quite challenging. Ironically, in both cases, there will be naysayers.

The easiest way to handle these people is to free up their future by inviting them to leave.

I say that with a healthy dose of sarcasm, knowing I’ve wanted to do exactly that dozens of times—maybe hundreds.

Play this option out a bit, and you quickly realize you’ve invited almost everyone to leave, leaving you without anyone. Of course, this also leaves you without anyone to naysay, but regardless, this is a terrible solution.

Let me suggest another option. But first, a quick example from my leadership life.

Pushing Back on a Volunteer Change

At Woodstock City Church, where I served for 13 years as lead pastor, we had many volunteers. For a long time, we had an “agreement” for volunteers working with children, students, and as adult small group leaders. This agreement was important as it clearly stated our expectations for the roles. It included things like social media expectations, substance abuse, lifestyle stuff, etc.

The most challenging expectation was for couples living together. We didn’t allow these individuals to serve in the aforementioned areas.

Yet in children’s and student ministry, we had many volunteer roles that weren’t spiritual leadership roles—things like greeting new families, checking children in, and such. With this in mind, we decided to rethink our volunteer agreement, delineating between “leadership” and “volunteering.” Leadership roles were spiritual oversight, while volunteer roles were more guest services or production-related.

Before implementing this, we announced the pending change to our current volunteers. There were certainly some questions, but most people understood why we were making this change. However, not everyone was on board.

We had some skeptics, and I understood their concerns. Yet I didn’t believe their concerns were significant enough to warrant keeping people from “volunteering.” Serving is an integral part of growing in our faith. Opening up opportunities for people to serve while holding to our theological convictions was important.

I met with several of the most outspoken cynics. But rather than work to convince them they were wrong or afraid for nothing, I took a different tact. One that you should consider.

10 Surprising Reasons Our Kids Leave Church

By

Marc Yoder

-

April 9, 2024

There are 10 surprising reasons our kids are leaving Christianity. And we can do something about it now! We all know them, the kids who were raised in church. They were stars of the youth group. They maybe even sang in the praise band or led worship. And then they graduate from high school and they leave church. What happened?

It seems to happen so often that I wanted to do some digging to talk to these kids and get some honest answers. I work in a major college town with a large number of 20-somethings. Nearly all of them were raised in very typical evangelical churches. Nearly all of them have left the church with no intention of returning.

I spend a lot of time with them and it takes very little to get them to vent, and I’m happy to listen. So, after lots of hours spent in coffee shops and after buying a few lunches, here are the most common thoughts taken from dozens of conversations.

I hope some of them make you angry—not at the message, but at the failure of our pragmatic replacement of the gospel of the cross with an Americanized gospel of glory.

This isn’t a negative “beat up on the church” article. I love the church, and I want to see American evangelicalism return to the gospel of repentance and faith in Christ for the forgiveness of sins—not just as something on our “what we believe” page on our website, but as the core of what we preach from our pulpits to our children, our youth and our adults.

The facts:

The statistics are jaw-droppingly horrific: 70 percent of youth stop attending church when they graduate from high school. Nearly a decade later, about half return to church.

Half.

Let that sink in.

There’s no easy way to say this: The American evangelical church has lost, is losing and will almost certainly continue to lose OUR YOUTH.

6 Sets of Contrasting Ministry Mistakes I’ve Made

By

Chuck Lawless

-

April 9, 2024

I’ve made a lot of ministry mistakes in 40+ years—and some that almost seem contradictory to others. Here are some of those mistakes. I hope my honesty will encourage you if you’ve made the same ministry mistakes.

6 Set of Contrasting Ministry Mistakes I’ve Made

Leading too quickly toward change when the church wasn’t ready. I saw the need for change but failed to help them see it before I acted on it.
Moving too slowly in change when the church was waiting. Other leaders knew what we needed to do, but I wasn’t ready to pull the trigger. They were right.

Spending too little time in sermon preparation. Sometimes, it was just easier to study a little, “wing it,” and hope the congregation wouldn’t know.
Spending too much time in sermon preparation. This hasn’t happened often, but I’ve sometimes prepared like I was doing a PhD oral defense and failed to do ministry the rest of the week.

——–

Doing evangelism but no equipping. The result was baby believers in my congregation who never grew.
Doing equipping but no evangelism. In those cases, I was acting more like a professor than as a pastor-evangelist.

——–

Seeking to avoid conflict at all costs. I don’t like conflict, and I’ve sometimes tried to be a peacemaker while avoiding speaking needed truth.
Inviting conflict as the “crusader for truth.” That happened much more during my early days of ministry, when I tried to show the backbone of a young preacher in his 20’s by proving everybody else wrong.

——–

Sharing too little about my own struggles. I’ve been known to battle alone—which is not the best way to fight spiritual battles.
Sharing too much about my struggles. It’s a fine line between honest vulnerability and unwise disclosure (at least with the wrong persons).

——–

Telling my wife more than she wanted to know. I hadn’t yet learned her preferences at the time, but I’ve learned since then.
Not keeping my wife informed. She may not want to know everything I know, but she definitely wants to know prayer concerns, scheduled events, etc.

——–

Leaving a church too soon. It probably wasn’t time for me to leave, but I was tired and frustrated.
Staying in a church too long. This issue proved even more problematic than leaving too soon.

This article on ministry mistakes originally appeared here, and is used by permission.

The Differences Between Main Line Churches and Evangelical Churches

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

The landscape of Christianity in the United States is diverse and complex, marked by various denominations and beliefs. Among these, evangelical Christianity and mainline Protestantism, frequently referred to as main line churches, represent significant and distinct strands of Christian thought and practice.

Main Line Churches and Evangelical Churches

The distinction between main line churches and evangelical churches is foundational to understanding the broader Christian ecclesiastical landscape. Evangelical Christianity is characterized by its conservative theological outlook, emphasizing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the authority of the Scriptures, and the importance of evangelism. Evangelicals are known for their commitment to the conversion experience and living a life that reflects their faith in Jesus. In contrast, main line churches encompasses a group of historic Protestant denominations known for their more liberal approach to theology and social issues. Mainline churches, which emerged in the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries due to differences among Protestants, often prioritize social justice, inclusivity, and a broad interpretation of Christian doctrine. These churches have historically played a significant role in American religious and societal developments, advocating for change and progression in various social issues.

What is Mainstream Church?

The term “mainstream church” generally refers to mainline Protestant denominations. These churches are considered mainstream because of their long-standing presence, historical influence, and significant membership within American society. Mainline denominations include:

The United Methodist Church
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
The Presbyterian Church (USA)
The United Church of Christ
The Episcopal Church

These denominations share a strong tradition of Communion or sacraments and place significant value on creeds as expressions of faith. While diverse in practice and theology, they collectively represent a more progressive approach to Christian faith and social issues compared to their evangelical counterparts.

How Many Books Did Paul Write in the Bible? 13 or 14?

By

Staff

-

April 9, 2024

How many books did Paul write in the Bible? The Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, is a pivotal figure in Christianity, credited with spreading the Lord’s teachings among the Gentiles and pioneering the early Christian Church’s formation. His contributions to the New Testament through a series of letters, known as the Pauline Epistles, help form a cornerstone of Christian theology.

How Many Books Did Paul Write in the Bible?

Paul’s letters to the early Christian communities and individuals are critical texts in the New Testament. They address theological issues, moral guidance, and the practical aspects of Christian life, reflecting the challenges and concerns of the early Church. The consensus among biblical scholars identifies the following letters as authored by Paul:

Romans
1 & 2 Corinthians
Galatians
Ephesians
Philippians
Colossians
1 & 2 Thessalonians
1 & 2 Timothy
Titus
Philemon

These letters, attributed to Paul, are collectively known as the Pauline Epistles.

The 14th Letter? The Debate Over Hebrews

How many books did Paul write in the Bible? 13, or 14? The Letter to the Hebrews has been a subject of contention. While early Christian tradition attributed it to Paul, modern scholars have debated this, noting differences in style and theology. Despite this, Hebrews often appears alongside Paul’s letters in the Bible, contributing to the confusion about the exact number of books Paul wrote.

While Paul’s contributions are significant, he was not the only one to pen New Testament writings. For instance, Peter, another key figure in early Christianity, is traditionally credited with writing 1 & 2 Peter. The discrepancy in the number of writings attributed to each apostle highlights the diverse sources of the New Testament’s composition.

The Mysterious Lost Ark of the Covenant: An Enduring Enigma

By

Staff

-

April 8, 2024

The lost Ark of the Covenant continues to captivate historians, theologians, and adventurers alike. This ancient relic, steeped in religious mystique, has spurred countless theories regarding its whereabouts and significance. Regarded as the most sacred artifact of the Israelites, the Ark of the Covenant’s history intertwines with the foundations of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths, making it a cornerstone of religious and historical inquiry.

The Lost Ark of the Covenant

Fashioned during a pivotal time in Israelite history, the Lost Ark of the Covenant symbolizes more than just religious devotion. According to biblical accounts, the Ark was fashioned by the Israelites in the Sinai Desert after their exodus from Egypt. This was not merely a physical journey but a spiritual odyssey, leading to the creation of an object believed to house God’s presence.

The Bible says that the Ark contained the Ten Commandments, tablets inscribed with laws directly from God. These commandments served as the foundation of moral and spiritual conduct for the Israelites. The Ark was also described as the mercy seat of God, a sacred space where God’s presence would manifest. Its construction and the contents it housed underscored the covenant between God and the people of Israel, embodying His guidance and protection.

The fate of the Ark has been shrouded in mystery and speculation. Historical accounts suggest that the Babylonians, during their conquest of Jerusalem, seized the Ark. Its subsequent disappearance has led to numerous theories, ranging from its destruction to its preservation in secret locations. Among the most popular beliefs is that the Ark was taken to Ethiopia, where it is guarded to this day. Others speculate that it was either destroyed by the Babylonians or secretly removed to prevent its desecration.

The Lost Ark of the Covenant’s allure is not limited to religious circles; it has permeated popular culture, inspiring films, literature, and intense scholarly debate. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the Ark remains a symbol of faith, mystery, and the human quest for connection with the divine.

Biblical Perspectives and Religious Beliefs

What is the Lost Ark in Christianity? In Christianity, the Ark is a symbol of God’s presence with His people.
Biblical Accounts: The Bible details the Ark’s construction, purpose, and the pivotal role it played in various miracles and events, emphasizing its centrality to the Israelite faith.
Current Theories: Speculations about the Ark’s location vary, with some suggesting it resides in Ethiopia, while others believe it was either destroyed or hidden to protect it from desecration.

Questions of Faith and Interpretation

Who Lost the Ark? The narrative commonly attributes the loss of the Ark to the Babylonian conquest, though the exact circumstances remain a topic of debate.
The Christian Belief: Many Christians view the Ark as a historical and spiritual symbol, integral to understanding God’s relationship with humanity.
The Holy Trinity: While not directly related to the concept of the Trinity, the Ark’s significance in Christianity echoes themes of divine presence and covenant.
Religious Affiliations: The Ark is a cross-cultural symbol, recognized and revered in both Judaism and Christianity for its historical and spiritual implications.

Despite extensive searches and scholarly research, the Ark of the Covenant has yet to be conclusively found. This enduring mystery only adds to its fascination, encouraging ongoing exploration and discussion.

Scriptures Related to the Ark of the Covenant

The Bible mentions the Ark of the Covenant in several passages, highlighting its significance and the mysteries surrounding it. Here is a list of scriptures that shed light on its story and legacy:

Exodus 25:10-22 – Instructions for the Ark’s construction and its role as the mercy seat.
Joshua 3:13-17 – The Ark’s power demonstrated during the crossing of the Jordan River.
1 Samuel 4:11 – The Ark captured by the Philistines, illustrating its central role in Israel’s identity.
2 Samuel 6:1-19 – David’s efforts to return the Ark to Jerusalem, underscoring its national and religious importance.
1 Kings 8:1-11 – The Ark placed in Solomon’s Temple, symbolizing God’s dwelling among His people.
Revelation 11:19 – A vision of God’s temple in heaven, where the Ark is seen, linking it to eternal divine presence.

The Lost Ark of the Covenant remains one of history’s greatest enigmas, bridging the gap between the past and present, the tangible and eternal. While its physical location may never be determined, its spiritual and cultural significance continues to resonate across generations. The quest for the Ark not only reflects the human desire for the presence of God but also the enduring power of faith and the mysteries it holds.

Generational Sin: What Does the Bible Say?

By

Staff

-

April 8, 2024

Generational sin refers to the behaviors, patterns, or consequences that transcend individual actions, affecting families across generations. Generational sin is a concept deeply rooted in biblical teachings, intrigue believers and scholars alike. The Bible offers insights into how these sins manifest and influence successive generations, leading to a complex interplay of morality, faith, and redemption. Understanding generational sins is crucial not only for theological study but also for breaking cycles of behavior that impact families today.

Generational Sin in the Bible

Generational sin refers to iniquities that affect not just one individual but are passed down through families, as outlined in the Bible. Unlike personal sin, which pertains to an individual’s actions, generational sin focuses on the collective moral and spiritual health of family lines. Scriptures suggest that the sins of one generation can set a precedent, influencing subsequent generations either directly through learned behaviors or indirectly through divine judgment. This foundational belief underscores the importance of moral integrity, not just for personal salvation but for the generational legacy one leaves behind.

The distinction between personal and generational sin is crucial, highlighting a layered understanding of sin’s nature and its repercussions. By acknowledging this distinction, believers are called to reflect on their lives, considering the broader implications of their actions.

The Difference Between Generational Sin and Original Sin

Inherited sin, or original sin, is a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, tracing back to Adam and Eve’s disobedience in Eden. This seminal act of rebellion against God introduced sin to humanity, tainting all generations thereafter. Christians believe that this original sin is inherited at birth, necessitating divine grace for redemption. The concept underscores the human condition’s inherent flaw and the perpetual need for salvation through Christ, illustrating a spiritual inheritance that impacts all, irrespective of personal deeds.

This theological perspective on inherited sin provides a foundation for understanding human nature and the universal need for divine intervention. It reinforces the belief in a shared human condition, one marked by a predisposition to sin but also by the potential for redemption and transformation through faith.

What Does the Bible Say About Discipleship

1. It’s a Call to Something.

2. We Must Faithfully Teach the Bible.

As Outreach

As Church Engagement

5 Family-Friendly Children’s Ministry Event Ideas

1. Random Act of (Keep Coming Back) Kindness

2. Box of (Boomerang) Blessings

3. Meetcha at the Four-Way

Confronting Addiction Symptoms

Confronting Addiction: What Scripture Says

Why Was Satan Cast Out of Heaven?

“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.”

The Origin of Satan

The Healing Touch: Jesus and the Lepers

In the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 8:1-4)

In the Gospel of Mark (Mark 1:40-45)

In the Gospel of Luke (Luke 17:11-19)

Key Lessons from Jesus’ Interactions with the Lepers

The Significance of Touch

A Testament to Faith and Gratitude

Josh Howerton Addresses Wedding Comments

The Prophetic Fulfillment: Israel’s Establishment and Biblical Prophecy

Diverse Interpretations: The Complexity of Prophecy

The Contemporary Lens: Israel-Palestine Conflict and End Times

Biblical References and Divine Intentions

God’s Covenant with Israel and Its Indestructibility

The Chosen People: Israel’s Divine Mandate

The Bible Meaning of Rebuke

How the Word of God Rebukes Us

Pushing Back on a Volunteer Change

6 Set of Contrasting Ministry Mistakes I’ve Made

Main Line Churches and Evangelical Churches

What is Mainstream Church?

How Many Books Did Paul Write in the Bible?

The 14th Letter? The Debate Over Hebrews

The Lost Ark of the Covenant

Biblical Perspectives and Religious Beliefs

Questions of Faith and Interpretation

Scriptures Related to the Ark of the Covenant

Generational Sin in the Bible

The Difference Between Generational Sin and Original Sin

New Articles

New Podcasts