Thoughts of Our Fathers (TOF) : Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

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For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live] (Ephesians 2:10 AMP).

As a child of God, you’re not an accident in this world. God isn’t surprised about you, because He knew you, ever before you came. There’s a path prearranged by God for you; and it’s a path of greatness. Everything you’d ever do, and achieve in life, have been prearranged! The question is, are you walking in that prearranged path? In that path, there’s no failure! In that path, there’s no defeat! In that path, there’s no death! In that path, there’s no poverty! In that path, there’s no sickness! It’s a path prearranged by God Himself.

If you’re meeting with frustrations in your life, what paths have you found yourself in? You ought to be taking paths which He prearranged! If you’ve found yourself in the wrong paths, you can retrace your steps today. The Bible says, "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" (Isaiah 30:21). Glory to God! This is His message to men and women around the world: "There’s a path to take! It was prepared ahead of time, prearranged for you, with the good life."

When you gave your heart to Christ, you came into God’s predestined path for your life! He’s the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He’s the way out of confusion! In Him, there’s victory, divine health, peace with prosperity!

Now, through His Word, He can lead you in the paths of success, victory, and unending prosperity. He made very specific plans for your life, and as you fellowship with Him through the Word and the Holy Spirit, He’ll guide you in the path of your destiny in Him; the path of righteousness and peace!

Prayer

Dear Lord, I thank you for the paths of greatness you’ve prepared for me to take in life. I’m living the good life which you prearranged, manifesting your glory, and expressing your righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Isaiah 58:11; Jeremiah 29:11; Ephesians 1:11

: Joshua 1-2 Luke 7:36-50

: Romans 3:26-31 Psalm 98-100

Get The Word…Get Wisdom - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 26, 2016

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness (1 Corinthians 3:19).

If you’re going to live a victorious, prosperous and glorious life, you have to know, understand and live by the Word. The Lord Jesus once made a remarkable statement to the Jews, saying, "…Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God" (Matthew 22:29). Many miss it, and function outside of the wisdom of God because they’re ignorant of God’s Word. That’s why the accurate teaching of the Word is so important. God’s Word empowers and propels you to live the transcendent life.

The Word of God is the wisdom of God. It doesn’t matter what you’ve experienced in life, who your advisers are, how many books you might have read, or what you’ve seen in life, if you don’t have the Word in you, you don’t have the wisdom of God, and therefore can’t excel. The wisdom of men may take you some distance, but only the wisdom of God will take you all the way.

Wisdom is the revelation of God; it’s insight into reality. The knowledge of God’s Word inspires the wisdom of God in you to know, say, and do the right thing, at the right time, in God’s way. Consider Moses, as he stood by the Red Sea with the children of Israel, God said, "Stretch your hand over the water, and divide it!"

If he had consulted with scientists and philosophers, they probably would have queried him with indignation: "What do you mean God told you to divide such expanse of waters with a rod in your hand?" They certainly would have thought he lost his mind. Howbeit, Moses already received the Word from the Lord, and was therefore propelled by wisdom. He did as he was instructed, and the sea parted—congealed on both sides—for the children of Israel to walk through on dry ground (Exodus 14:21-22). It was the manifestation of the wisdom of God.

True wisdom is of the Spirit, and comes by the Word. And through meditation, the Word of God takes root in your spirit, producing in you "phronesis" (Greek)—the wisdom or mindset of the righteous.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the wisdom that’s been made available through your Word. Christ has been made unto me wisdom; therefore, I walk in divine wisdom. I have supernatural ability to comprehend spiritual realities, and walk in your perfect will always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: 1 Corinthians 1:30; 1 Corinthians 2:6; Proverbs 4:7-9

: Deuteronomy 31-32 Luke 6:17-49

: Romans 3:13-19 Psalm 95-96

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Victory And Dominion In Christ Jesus - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Victory And Dominion In Christ Jesus - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 25, 2016

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children (Hosea 4:6).

God said through the Prophet Hosea that His people are destroyed, defeated and broken because they lack knowledge. Meaning that, their bane isn’t that they lack faith or aren’t making the right effort; the reason they‘re not walking in victory and dominion is their ignorance. This, therefore, means that as God’s children, we must keep making conscious efforts to learn and be taught God’s Word. If you have more accurate knowledge of the Word, you’ll live in victory and dominion every day of your life, irrespective of any adversity.

Some people think that living in constant victory and dominion isn’t possible, and they’re wrong. To hold such a belief is to ignore what Jesus came to do. He came to give us the life and nature of God: the transcendent life. In John 10:10 (NIV), He said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." He didn’t come to establish another religion, because the world already had enough of them before He came, and Christianity isn’t a religion. The Amplified translation says He came that we might have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance—to the full, till it overflows.

Perhaps you never thought it’s God’s idea for you to enjoy your life; now you know! But how can you enjoy life when things aren’t right with you? How can you enjoy life if you’re ignorant of all that He’s provided for you in Christ? This is why you must have a personal relationship with God and His Word, so you can know how to live in absolute victory every day. The Word of God is able to build you up, and cause you to live the kind of life God desires for you: a life above struggles and pains; a life of glory, righteousness, and dominion in Christ Jesus.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for giving me a life of glory, success and victory. Daily, I search the Scriptures and appropriate into my life what it says concerning me in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Romans 8:37; 2 Corinthians 2:14 AMP

: Deuteronomy 29-30 Luke 6:1-16

: Romans 3:1-12 Psalm 94

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Set Your Focus On Eternity - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Set Your Focus On Eternity - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 24, 2016

A Glorious Destiny - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

A Glorious Destiny - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 23, 2016

Our opening scripture reveals something profound about our destiny in God. Read the fifth and sixth verses again, this time, from the Amplified translation: "For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it pleased Him and was His kind intent]-- [So that we might be] to the praise and the commendation of His glorious grace (favor and mercy), which He so freely bestowed on us in the Beloved."

It’s our destiny to live to the praise of God’s grace; He chose and destined us for the glorious and transcendent life. So, as a Christian, you’re not living for nothing; your life isn’t empty. 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." This is your calling; this is your destiny in Christ! It has to become real to you. Why are you alive? What’s your reason for being?

Why were you born? Why did you ever come? It’s to fulfil God’s destiny for your life! And part of that destiny is that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues, perfections, excellence, and wisdom of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light. The Bible says He’s doing this "According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord."

You have a glorious destiny in God; a destiny of greatness. It’s however important that you follow God’s Word and live by the principles of the Kingdom.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for giving me a purpose and destiny in life, a destiny of greatness! I live the glorious and transcendent life, fulfilling that purpose, in my expression of your virtues, perfections, excellence, and wisdom, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12; Colossians 4:17 AMP

: Luke 5:1-16 Deuteronomy 25-27

: Romans 2:12-20 Psalm 91

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome You’re The Father’s Priority- Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

You’re The Father’s Priority- Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 22, 2016

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you (1 Peter 5:7).

As Christians, our connection to our heavenly Father is absolute; it’s not something that changes. We’re connected to Him by spiritual birth. So, whatever is important to you is important to Him. He cares about you affectionately; you’re the Father’s priority.

Think about this: an earthly parent can go to any length to ensure his children have a good life. He ensures his children are protected, and that their feeding, shelter, clothing, are all well taken care of. Some even go as far as taking care of their children’s friends. They just love and care for another child, simply because that other child is friends with their own child. Now, if earthly parents can care that much for their children, what do you think of your heavenly Father?

God loves you more than you love yourself. He loves you as much as He loves Jesus. He’s more ambitious about your success than you are for yourself. This should make you rejoice, and take worry away from your life permanently. God knows how much you want to be happy; He knows every good thing you want for yourself, and He has granted you all things that pertain to life and godliness in Christ Jesus.

He said, "My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways" (Proverbs 23:26 NIV). Trust Him and serve Him with your life. He knows what to do with you. He knows everything you desire better than you do. Therefore, give Him your cares, and refuse to be saddled again with those cares.

"Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee" (Isaiah 49:15). This is God talking to you. When everything seems to be going contrary to what the Word says concerning you, God says, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go…" (Genesis 28:15 NIV). His Word concerning you won’t fall to the ground

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, I’m so grateful for your unconditional and everlasting love. How comforting to know that I’m always on your mind! Thank you for making me a peculiar treasure unto you; I’m your pearl of inestimable value. For these and more, I worship you, and will forever be grateful, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Isaiah 43:4; James 1:18

: Luke 4:14-44 Deuteronomy 22-24

: Romans 2:1-11 Psalm 90

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Words Are Spiritual Elements - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Words Are Spiritual Elements - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 21, 2016

Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire… (James 3:5-6).

There’s something inside your mouth that’s so powerful; it’s your tongue. It’s given to you by God to form words; words with which to control, create or recreate the circumstances of your life. James 3:6 says the tongue is a fire; the power for any change that you desire is in your tongue. Jesus said you shall have what you say (Mark 11:23).

If you speak confusing words, the result is that your life will be confusing, because you’re giving confusing signals. Words are spiritual elements. They don’t die. That’s why Jesus said, "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment" (Matthew 12:36). One day, all your words will be shown to you by God, as to what they built, what they created, the image of your life and the circumstances of your life created by your words.

The most important thing in your life is your words. Your words will decide the quality of your life on earth. Your words will decide your relationship with God, your relationship with human beings, and where you go eternally: heaven or hell. No one else can determine the quality of your life. It’s all going to come from your words.

For instance, when some people are excited, they’d say, "If you continue this way, you’ll kill me!" Or some others who say, "This troublesome child will kill me some day!" Or, "Look at poor me." Unfortunately, such people don’t realize the power and importance of their words. Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21).

You may say, "But they were only joking." It makes no difference. Read again, what Jesus said in Matthew 12:36. Moreover, in Mark 11:23, He didn’t say, "You shall have what you say, when you mean them"; rather, He said, "You shall have what you say."

Train yourself to speak rightly. Proverbs 15:4 says, "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life…." Your tongue is your own tree of life; use it to chart your course for success and prosperity, and create your victorious path in life.

Confession

My life is for the glory of God, shaped in the direction of God’s perfect will! I reign and rule over circumstances as I chart my course in success and prosperity, and create my victorious path, with my wholesome tongue.

further study: Proverbs 13:3; Hebrews 10:23; Proverbs 15:4

: Luke 4:1-13 Deuteronomy 18-21

: Romans 1:24-32 Psalm 89

A Spiritual Connection - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

A Spiritual Connection - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 19, 2016

I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting (1 Timothy 2:8).

Some people don’t understand the reason we lift our hands in prayer and worship. It’s one of those things we’re admonished in the Scriptures to do, and it’s so important. Paul said, "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." This has nothing to do with how you feel; it’s a spiritual instruction, with immense spiritual benefits.

When you lift your hands to the Lord, you may have observed that sometimes, they seem to tremble somehow. They weren’t shaking that way before you started praying and lifted them to the Lord. But the moment you raised them, the anointing came on them, and they started shaking; it’s a signal of the touch of the Spirit at that moment. And if you recognize it and accept what the Spirit of God is doing, and how He’s getting your attention, a lot more could happen.

But not many understand these things. They have to be taught. Spiritual things can be taught, just as natural things of life can be taught. And once you learn them and respond accordingly, you’ll be amazed at how your life just keeps moving forward and upward.

There’s something deeply spiritual and pleasing to the Lord about lifting your hands to Him in worship and prayer. Though your hands are physical, there’s a connection between them and your spirit, when you lift them up to the Lord. It’s a spiritual connection between the outward nature and the inward man. It’s not a mere routine. You’re using them to guide yourself and your spirit towards God.

In Psalm 141:2, David said, "Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice." The lifting up of your hands to the Lord is far more pleasing to Him than offering physical sacrifices. If the Lord delights so much in seeing you lift your holy hands to Him, then it means it’s something you should take very seriously. You ought to do it because the Word says so! It’s a training you must imbibe, for it’s a spiritual act of reverence.

Confession

Blessed Lord, I lift my hands to you in holiness, in praise and adoration, declaring that you alone are God; your glory fills the earth! Thank you for your beauty, and righteousness revealed in me; my heart is filled with praise, and my hands lifted high, in honour of your majesty, and greatness.

further study: Psalm 134:2; 1 Kings 8:54

: Luke 2:21-52 Deuteronomy 13-15
: Romans 1:1-12 Psalm 85-86

Judge It By The Word - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Judge It By The Word - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 17, 2016

Sometimes, people receive what they claim to be visions or revelations from the Lord without subjecting such to God’s Word. They don’t take the time to check that such visions and revelations are consistent with the written Word. For example, a certain man had a vision. He had been a Christian for many years, but he became sick. While on his sick bed, he had a vision where someone, wearing sandals and a white robe, and covered with a cloud, walked into the room. He started looking from the person’s feet upwards to see who it was. As he looked to see his face; the man spoke up and said, "It’s not my will to heal you," and disappeared.

Although he couldn’t see the face of the one who appeared to him, he believed it was Jesus, because he said he felt the presence of God in the room. Hence, he accepted that it wasn’t the will of God to heal him, and began telling other brethren how it wasn’t God’s will for him to be healed. But that couldn’t be Jesus, or why would anybody think it was Jesus who appeared to the man?

Is it because the person described was in a "white robe," covered with "white cloud?" Or is it because, as the man said, he "felt" the presence of God in the room? None of these is enough for anyone to assume it was Jesus. You have to understand the interpretation of revelations. If you saw a vision of someone that looked like Jesus, and the person told you something that’s inconsistent with the Scripture, then it’s questionable; you have every right to reject it.

This is something many people are ignorant of. The will of God is clearly expressed in the Scriptures: God wants you well! In 3 John 1:2, He said, "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." He’ll never contradict His Word. So, if the voice you’re hearing contradicts the Word of God, that’s a demon talking to you, irrespective of the appearance. Moreover, we’re warned in scriptures not to be deceived, because even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14).

Every revelation must be subjected to the Word of God! Don’t accept it just because you saw a vision or because you got it from someone whom you think is spiritual; judge it by the Word. A revelation may not necessarily be perfect and accurate, but every revelation must be consistent with the revealed Word of God. This is another reason you must know the Word for yourself.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for granting me wisdom and insight into your perfect will in all things. The eyes of my understanding have been enlightened to know the hope of your calling, and the riches of the glory of your inheritance in the saints. I express the virtues and excellence of your Spirit today, as your Word finds a vent through me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: 1 John 4:1; 1 Corinthians 13:9-10; Hebrews 1:1-2

: Luke 1:57-80 Deuteronomy 8-10

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Power In The Word - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Power In The Word - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 16, 2016

The power of God is in His Word. You receive power when you hear the Word. Our opening scripture says, "He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions." Healing is a power. When the healing power of God comes to reside in you, it doesn’t matter what sickness has been in your body, that power would produce results and prevail. Matthew 8:16 says, "When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick." You see, the Lord Jesus cast out devils with His word! There’s power in the Word.

A dear sister’s baby had been in the hospital for some time and things weren’t looking good. The doctors had diagnosed the problem to be brain tumour and the prognosis was bleak; there was nothing more medical science could do. The family stood on God’s Word and believed for complete recovery. They prayed, and regularly confessed the Word over the little baby who was in the intensive care unit.

The child’s condition later took a turn for the worse. The sister, however, refused to fret, for she recognized she was engaged in a fight of faith. She and her family maintained their confession and set their focus on the Word. Soon, the baby got better, and after more tests, the doctors couldn’t find the tumour anymore! Several specialists were called in to conduct tests to verify the result and their results also came out negative; the brain tumour had disappeared. The boy was gloriously healed!

There’s healing power in the Word. God always confirms His Word with signs and wonders. Your role is to keep it in your heart and in your mouth always. It doesn’t matter what you might be going through right now; there’s enough power in the Word to put you over. Set your focus on the Word and maintain your confessions of faith. Keep testifying that the Word of God in your mouth is prevailing over circumstances, and your victory will be inevitable.

Prayer

Thank you dear Father for your infallible Word, and its ability to make me what it talks about. I live triumphantly in, and by, the Word, making progress with giant strides, and expanding on every side, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Revelations 12:11; Isaiah 55:11; Proverbs 4:22

: Luke 1:26-56 Deuteronomy 5-7

: Acts 28:1-10 Psalm 79-80

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Renew Your Thinking - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Renew Your Thinking - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 15, 2016

After you’ve given your life to Christ, you’ve got a responsibility. The Bible tells us not to be like the rest of the world. Don’t conform to the world’s standards and ways of doing things. Be different. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. That means, change your way of thinking; have a new mindset. If you want to see increased manifestation of the glory of God in your life, you must keep renewing your mind with the Word.

Before you became a Christian, you heard, and spoke words from the world; words that you learnt from your friends, from school, your environment, the members of your family, etc. Sometimes they were bitter words, angry words, and harsh words. Some other times, they were nice words. However, God gives us words that are more than "nice"; words of the Kingdom, with which to transform our lives from glory to glory.

As you study and yield yourself to the ministry of the Word, your spirit is inundated with divine truths; your mind is elevated to think Kingdom thoughts. This is why learning and meditating on the Word is so important. God’s Word gives you a new way of thinking. Whereas you used to think failure, fear, lack, and want, the Word gives you the mindset of success, excellence, victory, dominion, and abundance.

Now that you’re in Christ, refuse to be conformed to this world; rather, be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Renew your thinking with the Word. By hearing the Word of God, and digesting it into you, you develop new thoughts.

One of the major reasons many are defeated in life is their thinking. When they don’t think right, they can’t act right, and their minds are held in bondage. Nevertheless, with the transforming power of God’s Word, the limits are broken. So, set your mind on the Word and let it transform your life.

Prayer

As I meditate on the Word today, I’m transformed, transfigured, and catapulted into the image that I see in the Word! The glory of God in my spirit, and upon me, increases, influencing my attitude, character, mindset and faith. My life is improved and upgraded by the power of God’s Word today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Ephesians 4:22-24; Philippians 4:8; Joshua 1:8

: Luke 1:1-25 Deuteronomy 3-4

: Acts 27:32-44 Psalm 78

More Than A Religious Cliché · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

More Than A Religious Cliché · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 12, 2016

There’re those who say "nice" things about us Christians; they tell us Christianity is the best religion in the world. It’s kind of them to say such nice words about Christianity, but Christianity isn’t a religion at all. As long as many assume Christianity to be a religion, they miss the blessing and impact of the transcendent life in Christ to which we’ve been called.

The Bible never presents Christianity as a religion. The reason many tend to equate Christianity with religion is because of some of the activities in Christianity which are consistent with religion. There may be religion in Christianity; James 1:27 clarifies that for us: "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

The foregoing scripture doesn’t make Christianity a religion. For example, that you have a kitchen in your house doesn’t make your whole house a kitchen. In religion, man is in search of a "God"; he wants to serve and relate with "God," because he believes there’s a God. So, he wants to pray to, and worship, that "God." Therefore, in pursuit of his dream to serve that "God," whoever "that God" may be, he carries out so many different activities; that’s religion.

The difference in Christianity is about the man Jesus; it’s about His life that was poured out, so man, instead of searching for God, can be an associate of the God-kind. That’s Christianity; it’s the life of Christ in a human being.

Now, when we say, "Christianity is the life of Christ in a human person," it isn’t a mere religious cliché, neither does it merely relate to some piousness in the way we do what we do; no! We’re talking about the actual supplanting of the human life by the supernatural life of Christ; it is the infusion of Christ into the human person; the outworking of divinity in a human vessel; the unveiling of the Christ-life in a believing one. Having this clear understanding about Christianity sets you on course to live triumphantly every day, because you’ve come to know that greater is He that’s in you, than he that’s in the world.

Prayer

Dear Father, thank you for the reality of the divine life in Christ Jesus, who has defeated death and has brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Now, I live a joyful, exuberant, and glorious life in Christ; a life of absolute liberty, victory and dominion over Satan and circumstances, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Colossians 1:26-27; 1 John 4:4; 1 John 5:4

: Mark 15:1-20 Numbers 32-33

: Acts 27:1-8 Psalm 73

All Out For The Gospel - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

All Out For The Gospel - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 11, 2016

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:6-7)

Our opening Scripture is so profound and touching. The Apostle Paul was writing from prison, anticipating his own death. He knew his life was about to be poured out; he was ready to go and be with the Lord, but not without affirming, "…I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Paul’s conviction about the Gospel was absolute; and this was obvious in the kind of life he lived. He was sold out to the Gospel.

Your greatest passion should be the spread of the Gospel around the world. Jesus said in Matthew 24:14, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." These compelling words capture the urgency and need to preach the Gospel to every man, woman, boy and girl, and keep at it until the knowledge of God’s Word and His righteousness cover the earth as the waters cover the sea.

I’m sure you must have wondered at the commitment of those who wreak havoc through terrorism in different parts of the world. They believe in a wrong cause, and are willing to die for it. Now, if such folks could be willing to die (and are dying) for something that’s so wrong and hurtful to society, how much should you be ready to put into the true message—the Gospel—which is the only hope and power for man’s salvation? How far are you willing to go for the Gospel?

Paul said, "I’m ready to be offered"; in other words, "I’m ready to die for the Gospel." This was his mindset. In Romans 1:16, he said, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." How often do you intercede and agonize for lost souls, with tears and intense passion? When you speak, can others feel that intense passion and compassion you have for the salvation of lost souls? How much time, effort, energy, and resources do you commit to the Gospel?

Be inspired always to win souls, and pray for lost souls with passion. Nothing should matter more to you than to see those for whom Jesus died, living for Him.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for stirring up in me passion, complete allegiance, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel, which is your only saving power to the lost. I pursue your dreams, your plans and purpose for my life, without distraction, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study:

Mark 16:15 AMP; John 4:31-34; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2

: Mark 14:53-72 Numbers 29-31

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Prove Your Ministry - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Prove Your Ministry - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 10, 2016

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry (2 Timothy 4:5).

Did you notice that the Apostle Paul didn’t say God will make proof of your ministry? He also didn’t say you should pray to the Lord to prove your ministry; no! You’re the one to prove your ministry. Notice the underlined portion: "…do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." This shows that it’s your responsibility.

Many people live and never even begin what God chose them for, let alone complete it. They live and die without ever entering what God chose them to do in life. Colossians 4:17 says, "And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it." Think about that! Paul writes to the Colossians and tells them to charge a certain brother in the church to pay attention to his God-given ministry, and fulfil it.

If it were God’s responsibility to fulfil the man’s ministry, Paul probably would have said, "Tell Archipus not to worry, God will make sure he fulfils his ministry"; he didn’t say that; he made it clear it was Archippus’ responsibility, not only to take heed to the ministry that he had received of the Lord, but also to fulfil it.

If many people realized how much responsibility they have as individuals, for their lives, and how their lives turn out, they’ll think differently. It’s your responsibility to fulfil your calling. It’s your responsibility to put what you’ve got to work. Don’t be intimidated by circumstances in your evangelical work. Refuse to fear, because in making full proof of your ministry, you’re to endure afflictions. Therefore, be bold and courageous always: "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for your Word today, helping me to discover my purpose for living. I’m set on the right path to fulfil my divine destiny in Christ! I’m walking in preordained pathways, for you’ve structured the course of events in my life, and I go on to fulfil my divine destiny, to the glory and praise of your Name. Amen.

further study: Acts 20:22-24; 2 Peter 1:10

: Mark 14:27-52 Numbers 27-28

: Acts 26:12-23 Psalm 69-70

Let Nothing Stop You · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Let Nothing Stop You · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 09, 2016

Keep Growing In The Word · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Keep Growing In The Word · Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 05, 2016

There’re three kinds of men the Bible talks about: the old man, the new man, and the spiritual man. The old man is the natural man. The new man is the person who’s born again; his spirit is recreated. However, that new man isn’t all that God’s looking for. He wants the new man to become a spiritual man. Being born again is only the beginning of your journey with the Lord; you have to grow up unto maturity.

1 Peter 2:2 says, "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." This isn’t referring to the growth of your physical muscles, but your spirit. It’s talking about spiritual growth. The one who’s spiritually mature in Christ has a very different lifestyle from the one that’s still a babe in Christ. In fact, they don’t speak the same language. Whereas the latter is easily overwhelmed by circumstances and adversities of life, the former walks in dominion and has life under control.

The Bible says spiritual babes, are in bondage to the elements of this world (Galatians 4:3). No wonder He wants us to grow unto perfection; become a mature man or woman in Christ, not one who’s tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. He wants you to come to the place of perfection, the place of completeness and spiritual maturity. It’s a place of power and glory. It’s a place of joy, peace, fulfillment and success. It’s the place where divinity reigns!

By yielding yourself to the Word, and allowing it gain the dominion in your spirit, soul, and body, you’re catapulted to higher realms of glory. No matter how glorious your present level is, there’s more in God; there’s a greater glory. Therefore, keep growing in, and by, the Word!

Confession

I’m thoroughly nourished and fortified for the victorious life by the Word, through study and meditation. I make progress by the Spirit, and my profiting by the Word is unstoppable. As I grow in, and by the Word, the realities of the Kingdom are unveiled to me by the Holy Spirit; the glories of the Kingdom are revealed in me in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Colossians 2:6-7; Ephesians 4:11-14

: Mark 11:1-26 Numbers 16-17

: Acts 24:10-21 Psalm 57-58

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome The Authentic Christian Life - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

The Authentic Christian Life - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 04, 2016

The Apostle Paul in the above text, warned of perilous times in the last days, and I want you to notice his choice of words. Notice that he didn’t say it’s going to be impossible to be a Christian in the last days; no! Rather, he uses the word, "difficult." Why will many find it difficult to be Christians in these last days? It’s because of the challenges they would be facing, which really, shouldn’t be a problem if they’re in fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

There’s no Christianity without the Holy Spirit; the only way to live the authentic Christian life is through the Holy Spirit. Irrespective of how nice, calm, or cool one might seem, if that person doesn’t have the Holy Spirit, he can’t live as a Christian. Human "goodness" or self-righteousness isn’t the definition of Christianity. Christianity is Christ alive and at work in you; Christ taking up His abode in the quarters of your heart, literally living in you through the Holy Spirit; that’s real Christianity!

Jesus is in heaven. The only way He lives in you is through the Holy Spirit. If the Holy Spirit doesn’t live in you, it doesn’t matter how kind and nice you are; people may call you a "wonderful" person, but you’re not a Christian. It’s the Holy Spirit that brings you into Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body…." He’s the One that comes over you, and baptizes or immerses you into Christ, to become a member of the body of Christ through the new birth.

He brings you into Christ, and makes you God’s temple, but you must receive Him to live in you. If He lives in you, and becomes the Lord of your life, He’ll make you triumphant always! He’ll help you live the authentic Christian life; a life of absolute mastery, perpetual victory, and permanent success.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for empowering me with supernatural ability and equipping me with all that I need to live the divine life. By the Holy Spirit who lives in me, I set forth the wonderful deeds, and display the virtues and perfections of divinity to my world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49

: Mark 10:32-52 Numbers 14-15

: Acts 24:1-9 Psalm 56

Don't Despise Prophecy - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Don't Despise Prophecy - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

March 03, 2016

In Acts 2:17 Peter quoted the words of the prophet Joel: "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy …." This was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came. In Acts 1:8, Jesus said you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. One of the ways to put that power to work is through the gift of prophecy.

The gift of prophecy is a door to the supernatural; it’s a way to bring the supernatural power of God into your life, finances, job, or congregation if you’re a minister of the Gospel. Therefore, you must learn to prophesy! If you speak in tongues long enough, the anointing will come on you to prophesy; the Word of God will bubble up within you. And when that anointing comes on you, with the Word boiling inside you, give it vent; let it out. That’s prophecy.

To prophesy is to speak words that have divine potency; words that have life; so, don’t despise prophecy. Prophecy is like a guiding light. It was through prophecy that the people knew about the coming of Jesus. There were so many prophecies that the Saviour—the Messiah—would come. The only proof that God had for the people to recognize and say, "This is the messiah," was His Word spoken by the prophets about Christ—the Messiah.

Prophecy is vital. Have there been prophecies about your life? Paul said to Timothy, "This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare" (1 Timothy 1:18). Make war with those prophecies. Take every word of prophecy concerning your life seriously. Write them down, so you don’t forget, and chart your course with the creative power of God’s Word in your mouth.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the gift of prophecy. My heart and mouth are filled with words of power, even now, to cause changes in my life and around me. I declare that my life is for your glory; my future is that of success, progress, and prosperity in the Gospel of Jesus Christ! I dwell continually in peace, divine health, and in your grace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Acts 2:17-18; 1 Corinthians 14:3-4

: Mark 10:1-31 Numbers 11-13

: Acts 23:22-35 Psalm 55

He Doesn’t Convict You Of Sin - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

He Doesn’t Convict You Of Sin - Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

February 29, 2016

He Doesn’t Convict You Of Sin

For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world (1 Corinthians 11:31-32).

It’s not the ministry of the Holy Spirit to convict God’s people of sin. The Bible says the Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin, not the Church. For the Church, the Bible says, “For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged” (1 Corinthians 11:31). That means by our own spirits, we can tell when we’ve done something wrong, and our own spirits will judge us. We let our spirits judge us, so that we might not be judged of the Lord. Your spirit has the nature of God.

When you do wrong, what you need is to act on the Word of God: receive forgiveness. You don’t ask for forgiveness, which is where a lot of people miss it. The Bible didn’t say that you ask for forgiveness; rather, it says in Hebrews 4:16, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Did you notice it doesn’t say, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, and ask for mercy?” Instead, it says “to obtain,” that is, collect it.

You may have done something wrong and prayed to God to forgive you, and in your heart, you knew He forgave you. Some days later, the guilt of what you did weighs down on your mind and it seems as though He didn’t quite forgive you, so you find yourself asking for forgiveness again. The truth is, He isn’t responsible for the accusation you felt in your mind, because it’s not part of His ministry to convict you of sin.

Jesus is your advocate with the Father. Thus, when you say, “Father, I receive forgiveness for what I did,” immediately, you’re forgiven. The Bible says He is faithful and just to forgive us, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). It didn’t say He’s quick to judge us and convict us. Your spirit does that; but God is greater than your spirit (1 John 3:20-21).

PRAYER

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of righteousness bestowed on me in Christ Jesus. I function in righteousness, because I have the nature of Christ. My heart and conscience are purified in Christ. I walk in the reality of the life of righteousness, which I have in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. ||

|| 1 John 1:7-10 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. ||

|| Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

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Thoughts of Our Fathers (TOF)

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