Home Blog Page 5

HE ABOLISHED DEATH

But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:10). 

When I came across this verse years ago, for a second I thought I didn’t see it. “Did Paul actually say Jesus Christ abolished death?” I wondered. I studied the verse in-depth, looking in the original Greek and dissecting every word used. I found out after my study that the verse meant exactly what it said: Jesus Christ abolished death.

Some people try to reason it out and say Paul was referring to spiritual death. A thousand times, no! Observe from our opening verse that Jesus not only abolished death, He brought life and immortality to light. If the death was spiritual death, what about immortality? Could the Bible have meant spiritual immortality? That expression makes no sense; in fact, it’s a contradiction. Thus, the reason Paul made reference to immortality is because he was talking about physical death.

Some people however get troubled by what the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15:26“The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” So they say, “We still have death to deal with; it’s the last enemy to be destroyed.” No, that’s not what the Scripture is saying and I’ll explain.

It’s like when the Bible says in the book of Revelation, “And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God…” (Revelation 12:10). The fact that the voice said “Now is come salvation” didn’t mean everyone in the world was receiving salvation for the first time. People had been saved before then. 

So, when the Bible says death is the last enemy to be destroyed, it’s talking about death as a spirit that would be cast into the lake of fire: “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death” (Revelation 20:14). That’s when death will be destroyed. But already, it has been overcome; the law of death has been abrogated. The Master didn’t come from heaven for nothing. He didn’t die for nothing. He came to abolish death and He achieved it! Blessed be God!

PRAYER / CONFESSION

Dear Father, thank you for our victory over death, hell and the grave; thank you for bringing us into life and immortality through the Gospel. I’m born of the life-giving Spirit of Christ Jesus. Therefore, I’m a life-giving spirit and I live by the law of the Spirit of life in Jesus Christ. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

1 Corinthians 15:51-57; Revelation 20:14

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN

Matthew 11:1-30; Genesis 36-37

DOMINION OVER DARKNESS

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son (Colossians 1:13).

There’s no specific calling, office, or unique gift among Christians that’s exclusively for casting out demons. Nowhere in the Bible is such a gift mentioned. Rather, what the Bible says is that every Christian, without exception, has the authority and ability to cast out demons. This truth is firmly established in the words of Jesus: “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils…” (Mark 16:17).

I want you to observe what the Master said carefully: “These signs shall follow them that believe,” not “them with special gifts or ability,” but those who believe in Him. That includes you. Our dominion and superiority over Satan is simply because of who we are in Christ and the power of attorney He’s given to us to use His Name. So, the idea of needing someone to pray a “powerful prayer” for you to cast the devil out is unnecessary. What you simply need is the recognition of the power in the Name of Jesus and use it to subdue demons. 

In Colossians 1:13, the Apostle Paul reminds us of a fundamental reality: we’re not under the jurisdiction of Satan. This truth should be evident in your life; live free from the encumbrances of the enemy. Your life can be as glorious as you desire; you have the authority to make it happen.

There’s no need to implore God to deal with the devil for you because He has already executed the full victory over the enemy long before you came on the scene. Almost two thousand years ago, Jesus decisively dealt with the devil. The Bible says, “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it” (Colossians 2:15). 

And guess what? When Jesus defeated them, you were in Him. In Christ, you defeated Satan and the principalities of darkness. It’s the reason you’re superior to them and can reign and rule over them. Hallelujah!

PRAYER / CONFESSION

Dear Father, thank you for the authority and power you have given the Church over Satan and the principalities of darkness. I’m seated with Christ in glory, dominion, and power. I reign and rule over the circumstances and elements of this world, today and always, because I live in, and by the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Mark 16:17; Ephesians 1:19-23; 1 John 4:4

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN

Matthew 9:18-38; Genesis 29-30

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN

Acts 8:26-40; Esther 5-6

New Movie To Chronicle Winans Family Legacy

An upcoming seven-part movie series titled “THANKFUL” is poised to narrate the illustrious story of the legendary Winans family, whose name has become synonymous with the glory of God’s blessings in the realm of gospel music.

The series reveals how the Winans family name became synonymous with the glory of God’s blessings,” setting the stage for an immersive exploration of the family’s rich history.

The narrative of “THANKFUL” embarks on a journey spanning over 200 years, commencing in 1805 with the union of Louis and Ruby Winans. The series meticulously traces the lives of their descendants, providing audiences with a comprehensive understanding of the family’s profound impact on the world of gospel music and beyond.

Notably, “THANKFUL” goes beyond a mere chronological account, promising an auditory treat with music featuring contributions from the Winans family, their friends, and a diverse array of over 100 talented artists from around the globe. This collaborative effort seeks to produce an award-winning soundtrack that complements the cinematic artistry of the series.

Today, the Winans family is celebrated for their remarkable musical careers. Beginning in 1981, brothers Marvin, Carvin, Michael, and Ronald initiated their recording journey, swiftly amassing popularity and multiple Grammy awards. Additionally, the brother-sister duo of BeBe and CeCe Winans has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

The Winans family, known for their unwavering faith, frequently emphasizes the role of spirituality in their lives. During a 2022 appearance at the Liberty University School of Music, CeCe Winans highlighted the significance of the local church community as an anchor in her life.

“The local church is why I’m here,” she expressed. “It has been my anchor. Life happens to everybody; it doesn’t matter how famous you are.” CeCe continued, emphasizing the accountability and truth-telling within the local church community. “[They are the] people who are not blown away by who you are, but they tell you the truth and they tell you things you don’t like so you can be a better person and so that you can become all that God has called you to be.”

“THANKFUL” is poised to offer audiences a captivating blend of storytelling and music, providing an intimate glimpse into the extraordinary legacy of the Winans family and their enduring impact on gospel music worldwide.

JESUS CHRIST-THE PROFILE OF GOD

…he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:9).

The statement above came right out of the lips of the Master as part of His response to Philip, one of His disciples who asked Him to show them the Father. Jesus minced no words; He said, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.” In other words, “I’m the profile of the Father.”

The Bible tells us that Jesus is the image (icon) of the invisible God (2 Corinthians 4:4Colossians 1:15). That means He’s the resemblance and visual representation of God, the profile of God. If you want to know what God looks like, Jesus is the profile; He has all the characteristics, descriptions and attributes of Deity. 

This is akin to what we find in Hebrews 1:3 that says Jesus is the brightness of God’s glory and the “express image” of His person. Here, “charakter” (Greek) is used for express image; and it means the facsimile or print copy. Jesus is the facsimile or print copy of God. This is amazing! 

The Bible says in Jesus dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9). It pleased the Father that in Him (Jesus) should all fullness dwell (Colossians 1:19). No wonder He said in John 10:30“I and my Father are one.”

When you see Jesus, you won’t need to look for the Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the perfect appearance and replica of the Godhead. He’s the expression of God’s glory, honour and majesty. Blessed be His Name forever!

PRAYER / CONFESSION

Dear Father, I’m in awe of your glory, honour and majesty as revealed in Jesus Christ—the “print copy” of your divine essence—the clear and unmistakable representation of your character and nature. Lord Jesus, you’re the beauty of divinity and the perfect expression of the Father’s person. I worship and adore you forever. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Colossians 1:12-19; Hebrews 1:1-3; John 10:30-38

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN

Matthew 8:28-34; Matthew 9:1-17; Genesis 27-28

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN

Acts 8:14-25; Esther 3-4

Gospel Goes Classical Returns

The return of the “Gospel Goes Classical Live Recording” is a cause for celebration and excitement among music enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

This iconic event has a rich history of combining the power of gospel music with classical elements, creating a musical experience that transcends boundaries and elevates the soul. This year’s event will carry the theme “Jesus Is Coming Back Again,” drawing inspiration from Revelation 3 verse 11.


This promises to be an extraordinary and spiritually uplifting event that seamlessly blends the rich traditions of gospel music with the timeless beauty of classical elements.

This unique fusion of musical styles creates an atmosphere that transcends boundaries And connects people through the universal language of music.

The combination of powerful melodies and heartfelt lyrics in music has a unique ability to touch the deepest parts of our hearts. Here are a few reasons why attendees can expect a truly transformative experience:

  • The uplifting and soulful voices of the performers will resonate through the venue, carrying messages of hope, faith, and love.
  • The addition of classical elements adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the event.
  • The harmonious interplay of classical instruments like violins, pianos, and cellos alongside the gospel choir and vocalists.

A key highlight of the “Gospel Goes Classical Live Recording is the fact that this fusion of genres brings a unique and unforgettable dimension to the night’s worship.

Over and above all the event will showcase an array of talented artists including Lusanda Beya, Xoli Mncwango, Oncemore Six, Keneiloe Hope, Takie Ndou, Sneizy, and Timothy Myeni.

Make sure to mark your calendar for this special musical experience.Also, Keep an eye out for further updates on what guarantees to be an unforgettable night of Gospel Goes Classical.