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Showing posts from October, 2024

Christian Responses to Islamic Objections on the Deity of Jesus Christ and the Trinity

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  Christian Responses to Islamic Objections on the Deity of Jesus Christ and the Trinity This is a discussion on the deity of Jesus Christ and Trinity between Christian apologist, Dr. Johnson, and Islamic Dawah preacher, Imam Ahmed.  Imam Ahmed: In Islam, we believe Jesus is a prophet, not God. The Quran rejects the Trinity as polytheistic (Quran 4:171, 5:116). Dr. Johnson: I understand your concerns, Imam Ahmed. However, the Trinity isn't polytheistic. We worship one God in three distinct, coequal, and coeternal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14). Imam Ahmed: But isn't this tri-theism, like African ancestral worship? Dr. Johnson: Not at all. African polytheism involves multiple, independent gods. Christianity's Trinity is a unified, indivisible Godhead. Each person of the Trinity is fully God, yet distinct in role and relationship (John 1:1-14, Hebrews 1:1-3). Imam Ahmed: What about Jesus' human limitations? He hungered, thirsted...

A Call to Transformation and Christlikeness: Lessons from an African Proverb

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 A Call to Transformation and Christlikeness: Lessons from an African Proverb  A profound African proverb states, "A cat that dreams of becoming a lion must lose its appetite for rats." This wisdom conveys that achieving greatness requires relinquishing habits, desires and mindsets that hinder progress. In the context of Christian life, this proverb resonates deeply. To become like Christ, Romans 8:29 emphasizes the need for transformation. This involves surrendering our appetite for sinful pleasures and desires, embracing renewal and growth. Ephesians 4:22-24 and Colossians 3:5-10 instruct believers to put off their old selves, adopting the new self, created in God's image. Philippians 3:12-14 urges pressing on toward spiritual heights, leaving earthly concerns behind. The proverb's message aligns with Jesus' teachings on denying self. Luke 9:23-24 and Matthew 16:24-26 emphasize taking up one's cross, following Him. To achieve greatness, we must: - Let go of ...

Returning to Our True Root and the God of Our Ancestors

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Returning to Our True Root and the God of Our Ancestors   The word "root" signifies "origin," which also speaks volumes about the culture of the people and their way of life. Tradition is an inherited pattern of thoughts or actions, and as such, it can be either beneficial or harmful, depending on the knowledge and awareness of the people at that time. It is baffling to see how people mistakenly believe that the resurgence of idol worship in various villages and communities is a form of "tradition." What do they mean by that? When people carve wooden or stone idols or dress them in painted clothes and worship them as gods, they are not upholding tradition. They are merely following a misguided path that is disconnected from true African roots. It is concerning to see that many people do not understand where these idols originated from or what they represent. They have blindly accepted these idols without questioning their origin or purpose. These idols wer...

A Balanced Biblical Teaching on Tithing

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A Balanced Biblical Teaching on Tithing Tithing, the ancient practice of dedicating a tenth of one's income to God, has been a cornerstone of Christian stewardship for centuries. Despite its rich biblical heritage, tithing has sparked intense debate and diverse interpretations across denominations and generations. To navigate this complex issue, a balanced biblical teaching on tithing must consider its scriptural foundations (Genesis 14:20, Leviticus 27:30-32, Malachi 3:10), historical precedents in the Old and New Testaments, and practical implications for modern Christian living. By exploring the intersection of faith, finance, and generosity, believers can cultivate a deeper understanding of tithing's role in their spiritual journey and its transformative power in supporting the advancement of God's Kingdom. The recent surge in criticism against tithing stems from the exploitation of believers by some gospel ministers who prioritize personal gain over spiritual guidance....