Did God Make a Promise to the House of Judah?

How Do Churches Make Money?

How Do Churches Make Money?Churches typically generate income through donations, offerings, and other revenue streams. These funds support the church’s operations, ministries, and community outreach efforts, ensuring its ability to fulfill spiritual and social responsibilities.Main Sources of Church IncomeTithes and Offerings: Members of the congregation contribute regularly, often giving 10% of their income (a tithe) or additional offerings based on biblical principles (Malachi 3:10).Special Fundraisers: Churches may host events like bake sales, charity auctions, or concerts to raise money for specific causes or projects.Grants and Donations: Some churches receive grants from charitable organizations or philanthropic donations from individuals outside the congregation.Facility Rentals: Churches may rent their facilities for weddings, events, or community activities, generating additional income.Merchandise or Book Sales: Larger churches sometimes sell books, music, or branded merchandise to support their ministries.ConclusionChurches rely on tithes, offerings, fundraisers, and additional revenue streams to sustain their operations, support community outreach, and grow their ministries.

Why Do We Participate in Worship?

Why Do We Participate in Worship?Worship is a central practice in Christianity, allowing believers to honor, glorify, and connect with God. Participation in worship is both a response to God’s greatness and a way to grow spiritually as part of a community of faith.Reasons for Worship1. To Honor God: Worship acknowledges God’s sovereignty, holiness, and love. Psalm 95:6 invites believers: "O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker."2. To Express Gratitude: Worship is a way to thank God for His blessings, salvation, and grace (1 Thessalonians 5:18).3. To Grow Spiritually: Worship strengthens faith, provides encouragement, and fosters spiritual growth through prayer, music, and the Word of God (Colossians 3:16).Forms of Worship1. Corporate Worship: Gathering with other believers to sing, pray, and hear God’s Word fosters unity and mutual encouragement.2. Personal Worship: Private moments of prayer, meditation, or reading Scripture allow for personal connection with God.Why This MattersParticipating in worship deepens a believer’s relationship with God, unites the community of faith, and serves as a powerful expression of gratitude and reverence for the Creator.

Should Christians Keep the Sabbath?

Should Christians Keep the Sabbath?The question of whether Christians should keep the Sabbath depends on theological interpretation. While the Sabbath was commanded in the Old Testament, Christians often view its observance through the lens of Jesus’ fulfillment of the law and the New Testament teachings on rest and worship.1. The Sabbath CommandExodus 20:8-10 states, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God.” This commandment was given to Israel as part of the Mosaic Covenant.2. Jesus’ Teachings on the SabbathJesus emphasized the purpose of the Sabbath rather than strict legalism. In Mark 2:27-28, He said, “The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.” His teaching shifts the focus to rest, worship, and the heart’s intent.3. Christian PracticeMany Christians honor a day of rest and worship on Sunday, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, viewing it as a celebration of the new covenant. Romans 14:5-6 encourages believers to respect differing convictions: “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike.”ConclusionWhile Christians are not bound by Old Testament Sabbath laws, observing a day of rest and worship can enrich faith and honor God. The focus should remain on living in His grace and reflecting His priorities (Hebrews 4:9-10).

What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?

What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?Being a Christian means following Jesus Christ and living according to His teachings. It involves a personal relationship with Him, accepting Him as Savior, and seeking to reflect His love and holiness in everyday life.Faith in Jesus ChristAt the core of Christianity is faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of humanity. In John 14:6, Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Being a Christian means trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice for forgiveness of sins and eternal life.The Call to Follow JesusIn Matthew 16:24, Jesus tells His followers, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Christianity is not just about belief but also about living out the values and teachings of Jesus in every aspect of life, showing love, forgiveness, and service to others.Why This MattersBeing a Christian means living a life of discipleship, growing in the knowledge of Christ, and participating in His mission to spread the gospel. It is a life of love, purpose, and hope, grounded in faith and obedience to God.