sisj8

It teaches that it's basis is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Also, that await his return one day. All are, but without him redeeming us through his death, we would still be prisoners to sin. I believe all are enormously important. I think that his burial is less emphasized because his birth and death are so hugely celebrated on Easter and Christmas holidays. Him being buried symbolized how we went down (sin buried) and came up with new life (water baptism) And of course we know that baptism is for many religions a sensitive topic. But this is up for debate and not celebrated as is his birth, and death and his coming back, people really don't believe that nowadays at all.

I was just wondering living in the Laodecia age, how is any church like that in Philaelphia (please explain). I just got a little confusedon that. I know you referred to the type of fellowship, but still, thank you and God bless.

How important is imitation in the formation of a new Christian's spiritual life? From the beginning God showed how imitation is important when he created us in his likeness. As imitation refers to the formation of a Christian's spiritual life, in order to come into that perfection in Christ (maturity), it's imperative that we have first be filled with the spirit and then take on those same qualities in order to pattern our Christian lives just like Christ, otherwise, whose then example are we saying we are living and following. It's also important to see the various examples Christ displayed when he chose to be amongst us in the bible and there are of course instructions in the word of the spiritual qualities a Christian should possess. All and all the importance of imitation confirms your growth and relationship with Christ, makes you an example to others, draws you closer to Christ, helps you become a vital part of the kingdom, helps sustain you in times of trials and temptation. What kinds of ministry are most conducive to imitation? I'm not sure if their are those ministries that are most conducive as all the work in the kingdom is reliant on spiritual following. I do know though, prayer is vital, fasting, giving (tithes and offering) sharing the word (evangelism) and reading God's word. Why is the character of the mentor or leader so important to the health of the church? I know with my leader for example, I very much observe their character and it's important to me because I glean so much from their leadership. They are the shepherd who is called by God to lead his people (the sheep of his pasture) and many times God does speak through leaders or touches the hearts of those we re mentored by in order to direct us. If they have a character that is unhealthy or not lead by Christ, then that ministry and it's flock could be in jeopardy or become mislead. How well do people grow in Christ who aren't part of a Christian community? The bible does instruct us not to forsake the assembling of oneself with others, so fellowship is important to God for not only our growth but others. We are a body which has members and it takes coming together, otherwise, spiritually you will lack a vital part of your need to be fed. In what way is your character important to your family and spiritual children? I have a granddaughter who is 3 and I only see her once a year on her birthday. Last year, when she turned two was beginning to be able to say some phrases, I blurted out one time "Oh Boy!", and she repeated it. I knew then I must watch be careful of my attitude and speech for any negativity because she is watching and listening. In the same manner, our family and spiritual children observe our mannerisms, speech and lives and many times pattern themselves after this as they learn to take on their own spiritual attributes as they themselves grow. It also confirms how Christ is alive and we are his witnesses in the earth.

The holy spirit is vital because we are one with God, the holy spirit and Jesus, we can be assured that when we minister it isn't coming out of our own agenda. It's important it's God speaking through us and we are just the vessels being used for his good purpose. Well willpower may be good for that initial "zeal" and "motivation", to go, but again it's not our will, but "his will" be done. Also, only God knows the intent of a mans heart and can speak to that like no human person alone can. Miracles are things in which Jesus used in order to draw people and we can too. So they are drawing tools and also help deepen our faith to be reassured we do serve a God who does miracles. For some, the believer, it reaffirms their faith and for the unbeliever, it gives them that eye opening experience. Some may mock and put them in the category of witchcraft or magic, but that's just unfortunate for them. What hinders miracles from happening today is a consistent prayer life, disobedience and unbelief.

Strong opposition almost puts it lightly! In any event, this type of reaction was a norm and I'm sure expected and surely wasn't a first for Paul and this team. Their presence and the word of God alone stirs up these types of things ya know. But politically, financially, socially, etc. caused some trouble for the area and bottom line, none of them liked seeing Paul and them coming preaching the word and winning over converts. It definitely went against the beliefs of their government and religious systems also. No matter how violent the opposition, the Jesus states we are the stay the course and fight the good fight. The battle isn't ours, but the Lord. So many scriptures that uphold how we win"when the enemy comes in like a flood", "God will be our refuge", "He is a strong tower", "He is a rereward", etc. etc.