In Matthew 17:24-27, Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum, where tax collectors approach Peter, asking whether Jesus pays the temple tax. This tax, rooted in Exodus 30:13-16, was a half-shekel offering required of every Jewish male for the maintenance of the temple.
Peter affirms that Jesus does pay it, but when he enters the house, Jesus anticipates his question and teaches a deeper lesson. He asks Peter whether kings tax their own children or strangers, to which Peter replies, "strangers." Jesus then declares, "Then the children are free," implying that, as the Son of God, He is exempt from paying a tax meant for His Father's house.
Despite His exemption, Jesus instructs Peter to go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish he catches, which miraculously contains a coin sufficient for both their taxes (Matthew 17:27). This act demonstrates Jesus’ divine authority over creation while also illustrating humility and submission to avoid causing unnecessary offense. Rather than asserting His rights, He willingly complies, setting an example of wisdom and peace in dealing with authorities.
This passage reveals Jesus’ identity as the divine Son and the ultimate fulfillment of the temple’s purpose. It also teaches believers about responsible citizenship, balancing spiritual freedom with social responsibility. Romans 13:7 reinforces this principle by urging believers to give due respect and taxes where required. While Jesus was not obligated to pay the temple tax, His decision to do so models humility, obedience, and the greater mission of leading others to God through His example.
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The Punjab government has started registration of farmers under the “Chief Minister's Kissan Card” scheme from June 01, 2024, to provide interest-free agricultural loans
Lightupglo Gospel of Truth on Dr. Abel Damina's teaching titled "Lucifer Was Never Created in Heaven." However, Dr. Damina's teachings have sparked significant discussions within the Christian community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC_YiiIkf0s In October 2024, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) issued an open letter expressing concerns over Dr.
Damina's messages. They highlighted topics such as "There is no heaven," "You don't need God to Succeed," and "Jesus is not coming back," labeling them as heretical and cautioning believers against these teachings.
Dr. Damina responded to these allegations, refuting claims that he denied heaven's existence or Jesus's return. He emphasized that his teachings were being misinterpreted and taken out of context, asserting that his interpretations are rooted in a deep understanding of the scriptures.
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Lightupglo Gospel of Truth on Dr. Abel Damina's teaching titled "Lucifer Was Never Created in Heaven." However, Dr. Damina's teachings have sparked significant discussions within the Christian community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC_YiiIkf0s
In October 2024, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) issued an open letter expressing concerns over Dr. Damina's messages. They highlighted topics such as "There is no heaven," "You don't need God to Succeed," and "Jesus is not coming back," labeling them as heretical and cautioning believers against these teachings.
Dr. Damina responded to these allegations, refuting claims that he denied heaven's existence or Jesus's return. He emphasized that his teachings were being misinterpreted and taken out of context, asserting that his interpretations are rooted in a deep understanding of the scriptures.
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The Connection Between African Circumcision Practices and Biblical Theory (Written Over 400 Years Ago)
Circumcision is a deeply rooted practice in many African cultures, often symbolizing initiation, purity, and transition into adulthood.
Similarly, in the Bible, circumcision is presented as a covenant between God and His people, particularly in the Old Testament. The practice of circumcision in Africa, though primarily cultural, aligns with some biblical principles of purification and consecration.
From a biblical perspective, circumcision was first commanded to Abraham as a sign of the covenant (Genesis 17:9-14) and later reinforced in Mosaic Law. In African traditions, circumcision often signifies spiritual cleansing, tribal identity, and readiness for responsibility—paralleling how circumcision in the Bible was associated with being set apart as God’s chosen people. However, biblical circumcision had a theological significance, symbolizing obedience and submission to God, while African circumcision, in many cases, is more of a social and cultural rite of passage.
Over 400 years ago, African societies had already practiced circumcision for generations, independent of biblical influence. However, when Christian missionaries arrived, they often drew connections between these traditions and biblical teachings. In the New Testament, circumcision became symbolic rather than mandatory, as Paul emphasized spiritual circumcision of the heart rather than the flesh (Romans 2:28-29). This shift mirrors how some African communities today perform circumcision as a cultural tradition rather than a strictly religious act.
Commentary on Leviticus 16
Leviticus 16 describes the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), a sacred ritual where the high priest makes atonement for the sins of Israel. This chapter highlights the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, and the necessity of purification.
The chapter begins with a reference to the death of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before God (Leviticus 16:1-2). This sets the stage for God’s strict requirements regarding worship and atonement. The high priest, Aaron, had to follow detailed procedures, including washing, wearing holy garments, and offering sacrifices for himself and the people (Leviticus 16:3-6).
One of the most significant aspects of this chapter is the scapegoat ritual (Leviticus 16:7-10). Two goats were chosen—one to be sacrificed for the people's sins and the other to be sent into the wilderness, symbolically carrying away their transgressions. This foreshadows Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate sacrifice for sin, replacing the need for repeated atonement rituals (Hebrews 9:11-14).
The emphasis on purification and holiness in Leviticus 16 aligns with the broader biblical theme that sin separates humanity from God, but atonement restores the relationship. In many African traditions, cleansing rituals are also performed to purify individuals from spiritual impurity, resembling the symbolic role of the Day of Atonement in removing sin.
Ultimately, Leviticus 16 underscores God's mercy and provision for reconciliation. It serves as a foreshadowing of Christ’s redemptive work, demonstrating that true cleansing comes not through external rituals but through faith and repentance.
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The Bible's Heaven is a reality NOW. Heaven is at first, the day you receive Christ, is the day you make heaven. (Eph 2:5-6 and Luke17:19-21) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtMkA8Pzq58
Dr. Abel Damina Unveils a Major Truth About the Book of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhxtbUw2uIs
Dr. Abel Damina Unveils a Major Truth About the Book of Genesis. Feel free to leave your comments, and if you have any questions, please be constructive in your writing.
Genesis. Feel free to leave your comments, and if you have any questions, please be constructive in your writing.
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Mark 7:21 (KJV) states:
"For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,"
This verse highlights Jesus' teaching that sin originates from within a person rather than from external influences.
He explains that moral corruption comes from the human heart, not merely from outside temptations. This counters the idea that people are defiled by what they consume or external rituals, emphasizing instead that true defilement comes from sinful desires and intentions that arise internally.
God created human beings with the ability to choose between good and evil rather than forcing them to obey Him. Sin entered the world when Lucifer, an angel, rebelled against God, followed by Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Their choices, not God’s creation, brought sin into existence.
While God is sovereign and omniscient, He is not the author of sin but permits it for a greater purpose, such as demonstrating His justice and mercy. The Bible teaches that God is perfectly holy and cannot be the source of evil (James 1:13). However, through Christ’s redemption, He offers salvation from sin, turning human failures into opportunities for grace and reconciliation.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFH5EahH3_I
Pastor Abel Damina, founder of Power City International Ministries in Uyo, Nigeria, has recently shared his perspectives on tithing and certain biblical interpretations, challenging traditional Christian practices.
On Tithing:
In a discussion on the Honest Brunch podcast, Pastor Damina emphasized that tithing, as practiced in many modern churches, is not a New Testament mandate. He explained that the Old Testament describes three types of tithes: one paid every three years, another from annual harvests, and a third where families bring foodstuffs to the temple. He noted that these practices were specific to the Israelites and the Levites, who were dedicated to temple service and had no other means of livelihood. Damina argued that since most contemporary believers are neither Israelites nor farmers, and pastors are not Levites, the traditional concept of tithing does not apply. He stated, "In the New Testament, Christianity is historic and apostolic. We should only do what the apostles did and teach what Jesus taught. Jesus did not pay tithe.
He further contended that the emphasis should be on generosity rather than a fixed percentage, urging believers to give willingly and cheerfully without compulsion. Damina highlighted that the New Testament focuses on voluntary giving driven by love and commitment to God's work, rather than adhering to Old Testament tithing laws.
On 2 Kings 1:12-13:
Regarding the biblical passage in 2 Kings 1:12-13, which describes the prophet Elijah calling down fire from heaven to consume soldiers sent by King Ahaziah, Pastor Damina offered a controversial interpretation. He asserted that it was Satan, not God, who sent the fire in response to Elijah's prayer. This perspective challenges traditional readings of the text and has sparked debate within Christian communities.
Pastor Damina's views have led to significant discussions and, in some cases, controversy within the Christian community. His teachings on tithing have reportedly resulted in financial challenges for his ministry, including the shutdown of their television station and staff layoffs, as members adjusted their giving in response to his messages.
These perspectives continue to influence conversations about traditional practices and interpretations within modern Christianity.
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Paying Taxes (Matthew 17:24-27 and 22:15-22)
In Jesus’ day, Jews paid taxes both locally to the Jewish temple and to the pagan government in Rome. Matthew records two separate instances depicting Jesus’ view on paying these taxes.
The first incident is recorded in Matthew 17:24-27, where the collectors of the temple tax ask Peter whether Jesus pays that tax. Jesus, knowing of this conversation, asks Peter, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?” Peter answers, “From others.” Jesus responds, “Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.”
The second incident, concerning the Roman tax, is found in Matthew 22:15-22. Here the Pharisees and Herodians want to entrap Jesus with the question, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?” Jesus knows the malice in their hearts and responds with a cutting question, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin used for the tax.” When they hand him a denarius, he asks, “Whose head is this, and whose title?” They respond, “The emperor's.” Jesus ends the conversation with the words, “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
Our true citizenship is in God’s kingdom, and we devote our resources to God’s purposes. But we give to earthly powers what is due. Paying taxes is one of the bedrock obligations we as citizens or residents undertake for the services we enjoy in any civilized society. Those services include the work of first responders (police, firefighters, medical people, and so on), as well as the social nets in place to assure justice or aid for the poor, the aged, and others in need. The Roman Empire was not governed primarily for the benefit of the common people, yet even so it provided roads, water, policing, and sometimes relief for the poor. We may not always agree on the type or extent of services our governments should provide, but we know that our taxes are essential in providing for our personal protection and for the help of those who cannot help themselves.
Even though not all of government activity serves God’s purposes, Jesus does not call us flout the tax requirements of the nations where we reside (Romans 13:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). Jesus is saying in essence that we do not necessarily have to resist paying taxes as a matter of principle. When possible, we should “live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14; cf. 1 Peter 2:12), while also living as lights shining in the darkness (Matthew 5:13-16; Philippians 2:15). To work at our jobs and to refuse to pay our taxes in a way that brings dishonor to God’s kingdom would be neither peaceable nor winsome.
This has direct applications to work. Workplaces are subject to governmental laws and powers, in addition to taxes. Some governments have laws and practices that may violate Christian purposes and ethics, as was true of Rome in the first century. Governments or their employees may demand bribes, impose unethical rules and regulations, subject people to suffering and injustice, and use the taxes for purposes contrary to God's will. As with taxes, Jesus does not demand that we resist every one of these abuses. We are like spies or guerrillas in enemy territory. We can’t get bogged down in fighting the enemy kingdom at every stronghold. Instead, we must act strategically, always asking what will most further the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth. Of course, we must never engage in abusive practices for our own benefit. (This topic is also discussed under "Luke 19:1-10; 20:20-26" in Luke and Work at www.theologyofwork.org.)
https://www.theologyofwork.org/new-testament/matthew/tales-of-two-kingdoms-matthew-11-17/paying-taxes-matthew-1724-27-and-2215-22/Read more
1. Blood Represents Life (Leviticus 17:11): For humanity, blood represents the very essence of life that only God can provide.
2. Blood as Ransom: In the Old Testament, blood is often used in sacrifices, particularly as a ransom—a price paid to release someone from bondage or captivity.
This concept aligns with 1 Corinthians 7:23, which emphasizes that we were “bought with a price.” Christ’s blood becomes the ultimate payment, a ransom given to release humanity from the bondage of sin and the authority of Satan.
3. The Fall and Authority of Satan: When Adam sinned, according to Romans 5:12, sin entered the world, and humanity lost its original glory. Adam’s transgression handed over authority to Satan, the prince of this world. The spiritual battle that followed was rooted in this authority shift, where humanity became enslaved to sin and death.
4. Christ’s Sinless Nature: Christ’s coming was unique because He was born not of man’s seed but through the Holy Spirit. This is critical for redemption because if Christ had come through the lineage of Adam, He would have inherited the sin nature that passed down through all of humanity. However, because He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, His blood was pure—blameless and sinless—qualifying Him as the perfect sacrifice to atone for mankind’s sins.
5. Redemption and Regaining Possession: The term redeem means to regain possession, and Christ’s mission was precisely that: to redeem humanity from the dominion of sin and Satan. His sinless blood became the payment that secured our redemption, purchasing us back from the grip of death and Satan’s power.
6. The Role of Satan in Christ’s Death:
Although Christ’s death was ordained by God (1 Peter 1:18-20), Satan played a role in the crucifixion. In his deception and manipulation of men, Satan thought he was orchestrating Christ’s downfall. However, in reality, he was fulfilling God’s plan of redemption. The innocent Christ’s death became the basis for Satan’s defeat because in killing a sinless man, Satan overstepped, ultimately condemning himself and undoing his hold on humanity.
7. Innocence and the Consequence of Murder:
According to the scriptures, when an innocent man is killed, one who does not deserve judgment or condemnation, his blood cries out to God. When that blood cries, God hears, and whatever the innocent asks of God, it will be done. In the case of Christ, instead of His blood crying out for vengeance for His unjust death, He asked God to forgive and release those who were guilty. This is why our eternal life and salvation are found in the Lord Jesus Christ, who, through His sacrifice, secured our redemption by pleading for mercy rather than judgment.
Christ foretold how He would be killed and resurrected in Matthew 12:40, showing that He knew what would happen before it even began. In Matthew 26:36-46, we see that Christ submitted to God’s will, praying for the cup of suffering to pass from Him, but ultimately accepting that His death was part of God’s plan. If it wasn’t God’s will, the Father could have stopped it. In Matthew 17:22-23, Christ again demonstrated His knowledge of the events that would unfold. Later, in Luke 24:25-27, Christ confirmed that everything that happened was written in the scriptures. Isaiah 53:1-5 also prophesied the sufferings and afflictions Christ would endure to bring us salvation.
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These Books: Igbo Mediators of Yahweh Culture of Life: volumes I to IV, are the first accurate account of the history of the Igbo from Ancient Egypt as the Dynastic Pharaohs (efere ọha - your worship of the people) to their expulsion in the Exodus.
The research was based on genetic, ethnolinguisti c, paleo-anthropologic and archeological scientific proof. Each volume of the book builds on the theme of the series, that the Igbo are the Chosen People of God, the true Israelites (Igbo language: ḷ zara Eli - you answered the Most High). The Igbo were the original inhabitants of ancient Egypt (a gọ Ya, a pa atụ, - prays to God and carries out His instructions), and were the Dynastic Pharaohs. The Igbo were the earlier inhabitants of Nubia (Owere dialect Igbo language: anị ibo - the land of the mediators, as priests that mediate between God and humanity for the remission of sin). The Igbo that speak the Owere dialect lived in Nubia or Lower Egypt while those that speak the Ọnịtcha dialect lived in Upper Egypt. The Igbo Egyptians were conquered by the Turkic and ancestors of Arabs, and then enslaved in their own land, as Hebrews (ọha e bu ụrụ ụwa - the people who bear the wickedness of the world). On the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (oke Nna, - the allotment of the Father), they were formally ordained a nation of priests by God and called Igbo (i gbo, meaning ‘mediators or priests’ between God and humanity for the remission of sin). Human origins are traced through matrilineal genes, starting with the Eve gene called superhaplogroup L0. The Igbo have L1 gene Semite gene of Ancient Israelites. The Igbo gene haplogroup is L1 dating 150,000 to 240,000 years. The L2 are genes of the people of Black Southern Sudan, which dates 100,000 to 150,000 years; and L3 dates 70,000 to 100,000 years and comprise all other black people. The genes of the white people are M and N, and are mutations of L3, that dates back 6,000 to 12,000 years! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Zco67xXnMRead more
These Books: Igbo Mediators of Yahweh Culture of Life: volumes I to IV, are the first accurate account of the history of the Igbo from Ancient Egypt as the Dynastic Pharaohs (efere ọha - your worship of the people) to their expulsion in the Exodus.
The research was based on genetic, ethnolinguisti c, paleo-anthropologic and archeological scientific proof. Each volume of the book builds on the theme of the series, that the Igbo are the Chosen People of God, the true Israelites (Igbo language: ḷ zara Eli - you answered the Most High). The Igbo were the original inhabitants of ancient Egypt (a gọ Ya, a pa atụ, - prays to God and carries out His instructions), and were the Dynastic Pharaohs. The Igbo were the earlier inhabitants of Nubia (Owere dialect Igbo language: anị ibo - the land of the mediators, as priests that mediate between God and humanity for the remission of sin). The Igbo that speak the Owere dialect lived in Nubia or Lower Egypt while those that speak the Ọnịtcha dialect lived in Upper Egypt. The Igbo Egyptians were conquered by the Turkic and ancestors of Arabs, and then enslaved in their own land, as Hebrews (ọha e bu ụrụ ụwa - the people who bear the wickedness of the world). On the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (oke Nna, - the allotment of the Father), they were formally ordained a nation of priests by God and called Igbo (i gbo, meaning ‘mediators or priests’ between God and humanity for the remission of sin). Human origins are traced through matrilineal genes, starting with the Eve gene called superhaplogroup L0. The Igbo have L1 gene Semite gene of Ancient Israelites. The Igbo gene haplogroup is L1 dating 150,000 to 240,000 years. The L2 are genes of the people of Black Southern Sudan, which dates 100,000 to 150,000 years; and L3 dates 70,000 to 100,000 years and comprise all other black people. The genes of the white people are M and N, and are mutations of L3, that dates back 6,000 to 12,000 years! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Zco67xXnMRead more
These Books: Igbo Mediators of Yahweh Culture of Life: volumes I to IV, are the first accurate account of the history of the Igbo from Ancient Egypt as the Dynastic Pharaohs (efere ọha - your worship of the people) to their expulsion in the Exodus.
The research was based on genetic, ethnolinguisti c, paleo-anthropologic and archeological scientific proof. Each volume of the book builds on the theme of the series, that the Igbo are the Chosen People of God, the true Israelites (Igbo language: ḷ zara Eli - you answered the Most High). The Igbo were the original inhabitants of ancient Egypt (a gọ Ya, a pa atụ, - prays to God and carries out His instructions), and were the Dynastic Pharaohs. The Igbo were the earlier inhabitants of Nubia (Owere dialect Igbo language: anị ibo - the land of the mediators, as priests that mediate between God and humanity for the remission of sin). The Igbo that speak the Owere dialect lived in Nubia or Lower Egypt while those that speak the Ọnịtcha dialect lived in Upper Egypt. The Igbo Egyptians were conquered by the Turkic and ancestors of Arabs, and then enslaved in their own land, as Hebrews (ọha e bu ụrụ ụwa - the people who bear the wickedness of the world). On the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (oke Nna, - the allotment of the Father), they were formally ordained a nation of priests by God and called Igbo (i gbo, meaning ‘mediators or priests’ between God and humanity for the remission of sin). Human origins are traced through matrilineal genes, starting with the Eve gene called superhaplogroup L0. The Igbo have L1 gene Semite gene of Ancient Israelites. The Igbo gene haplogroup is L1 dating 150,000 to 240,000 years. The L2 are genes of the people of Black Southern Sudan, which dates 100,000 to 150,000 years; and L3 dates 70,000 to 100,000 years and comprise all other black people. The genes of the white people are M and N, and are mutations of L3, that dates back 6,000 to 12,000 years! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Zco67xXnMRead more
These Books: Igbo Mediators of Yahweh Culture of Life: volumes I to IV, are the first accurate account of the history of the Igbo from Ancient Egypt as the Dynastic Pharaohs (efere ọha - your worship of the people) to their expulsion in the Exodus.
The research was based on genetic, ethnolinguisti c, paleo-anthropologic and archeological scientific proof. Each volume of the book builds on the theme of the series, that the Igbo are the Chosen People of God, the true Israelites (Igbo language: ḷ zara Eli - you answered the Most High). The Igbo were the original inhabitants of ancient Egypt (a gọ Ya, a pa atụ, - prays to God and carries out His instructions), and were the Dynastic Pharaohs. The Igbo were the earlier inhabitants of Nubia (Owere dialect Igbo language: anị ibo - the land of the mediators, as priests that mediate between God and humanity for the remission of sin). The Igbo that speak the Owere dialect lived in Nubia or Lower Egypt while those that speak the Ọnịtcha dialect lived in Upper Egypt. The Igbo Egyptians were conquered by the Turkic and ancestors of Arabs, and then enslaved in their own land, as Hebrews (ọha e bu ụrụ ụwa - the people who bear the wickedness of the world). On the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (oke Nna, - the allotment of the Father), they were formally ordained a nation of priests by God and called Igbo (i gbo, meaning ‘mediators or priests’ between God and humanity for the remission of sin). Human origins are traced through matrilineal genes, starting with the Eve gene called superhaplogroup L0. The Igbo have L1 gene Semite gene of Ancient Israelites. The Igbo gene haplogroup is L1 dating 150,000 to 240,000 years. The L2 are genes of the people of Black Southern Sudan, which dates 100,000 to 150,000 years; and L3 dates 70,000 to 100,000 years and comprise all other black people. The genes of the white people are M and N, and are mutations of L3, that dates back 6,000 to 12,000 years! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Zco67xXnMRead more
These Books: Igbo Mediators of Yahweh Culture of Life: volumes I to IV, are the first accurate account of the history of the Igbo from Ancient Egypt as the Dynastic Pharaohs (efere ọha - your worship of the people) to their expulsion in the Exodus.
The research was based on genetic, ethnolinguisti c, paleo-anthropologic and archeological scientific proof. Each volume of the book builds on the theme of the series, that the Igbo are the Chosen People of God, the true Israelites (Igbo language: ḷ zara Eli - you answered the Most High). The Igbo were the original inhabitants of ancient Egypt (a gọ Ya, a pa atụ, - prays to God and carries out His instructions), and were the Dynastic Pharaohs. The Igbo were the earlier inhabitants of Nubia (Owere dialect Igbo language: anị ibo - the land of the mediators, as priests that mediate between God and humanity for the remission of sin). The Igbo that speak the Owere dialect lived in Nubia or Lower Egypt while those that speak the Ọnịtcha dialect lived in Upper Egypt. The Igbo Egyptians were conquered by the Turkic and ancestors of Arabs, and then enslaved in their own land, as Hebrews (ọha e bu ụrụ ụwa - the people who bear the wickedness of the world). On the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (oke Nna, - the allotment of the Father), they were formally ordained a nation of priests by God and called Igbo (i gbo, meaning ‘mediators or priests’ between God and humanity for the remission of sin). Human origins are traced through matrilineal genes, starting with the Eve gene called superhaplogroup L0. The Igbo have L1 gene Semite gene of Ancient Israelites. The Igbo gene haplogroup is L1 dating 150,000 to 240,000 years. The L2 are genes of the people of Black Southern Sudan, which dates 100,000 to 150,000 years; and L3 dates 70,000 to 100,000 years and comprise all other black people. The genes of the white people are M and N, and are mutations of L3, that dates back 6,000 to 12,000 years! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Zco67xXnMRead more
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Chr...
14
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculi...
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2 Timothy 4:1
1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;...
Colossians 3:4
4
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory....
John 14:1-3
1
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me....
2
In my Fathers house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you....
3
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also....
Mark 13:32
32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father....
Matthew 24:27-31
27
For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be....
28
For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together....
29
Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall f......
30
And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of......
31
And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of......
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
16
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Chr......
17
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be......
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10
7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,...
8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:...
9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;...
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that da......
Matthew 25:34
34
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation......
1 Corinthians 15:52-55
52
In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we......
53
For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality....
54
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the sa......
55
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?...
40 For in mine holy mountain, in the mountain of the height of...
41
I will accept you with your sweet savour, when I bring you o...
42
And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I shall bring you...
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1 Corinthians 15:52-55
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we......
53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality....
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the sa......
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?...
Isaiah 25:8-9
8
He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord Lord will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take a......
9
And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him......
Revelation 21:1-7
1
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea....
2
And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband....
3
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be hi......
4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any......
5
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful....
6
And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of th......
7
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son....
Isaiah 2:2-3
2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lords house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall......
3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach......
Isaiah 65:17-19
17 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind....
18 But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy....
19 And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying....
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as...
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1 Corinthians 3:16-17
16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?...
17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are....
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?...
20
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are Gods....
Romans 13:13-14
13
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying....
14
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof....
1 Peter 4:7
7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer....
1 Corinthians 6:9-10
9
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers,......
10
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God....
1 Thessalonians 5:6-9
6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober....
7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night....
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation....
9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,...
1 Peter 1:13-14
13
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Je......
14
As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:...
16 Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the...
17
Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not...
18
Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love t...
19
Ye shall keep my statutes. Thou shalt not let thy cattle gender with a diverse kind: thou shalt not...
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Proverbs 11:13
13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter...
Confidentiality, Gossip, and Openness in the Body of Christ
God calls on Christians to disclose their problems to one another (Galatians 6:2; James 5:16). But is it ever right to discuss another’s problem with a third party? What about leadership teams that need to decide what to do with a member? What about a lay counselor who needs help discerning a tough situation? What about a friend who knows something serious about another friend, but the other friend won’t agree to disclose the problem? What about a friend who says, “I’ve got something to share, but you have to promise not to tell anyone,” or “By the way, what I told you was in confidence”?
The Biblical Position
Like so many issues, when viewing things under grace we are not given black and white prescriptions on exactly how to handle each situation. The Bible lays out key principles, the biggest being love. The best way to love someone is not one-size fits all. Believers are supposed to follow the Holy Spirit’s leading while growing in their own discernment. As they grow in discernment, they will develop an ability to sense what the most loving stance is to take in each situation.
On the one hand, Scripture speaks strongly against gossip.
Proverbs 20:19 - “…do not associate with a gossip.” (See also Proverbs 11:13a; 16:27,28; 17:9b)
Romans 1:29; 2 Corinthians 12:20 – Both differentiate gossip from slander and condemn it as the result of a depraved mind, unfitting for Christians.
1 Timothy 5:13; 2 Thessalonians 3:11 – Both condemn “busybodies” who “speak about things not proper to mention.”
Likewise, some passages defend the idea of confidentiality.
Proverbs 11:13 – “He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy conceals a matter.”
Proverbs. 17:9a - “He who covers a transgression seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates intimate friends.”
Proverbs 20:19 – “He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, therefore do not associate with a gossip.”
Proverbs 25:9-10 - “…don’t reveal the secret of another, lest he who hears it reproach you, and the evil report about you not pass away.”
Matthew 18:15 - “If your brother sins, go and reprove him in private…” This implies the desirability of resolving the matter one on one.
We have all seen the wreckage that gossip can cause: feelings hurt, trust destroyed, relationships ruined – and above all, an atmosphere of mistrust and fear. People feel reluctant to open up out of fear people will broadcast it. Also, people may not open up about serious problems, or may sanitize their versions of those problems unless we can offer them the safety of confidentiality.
Merely avoiding gossip isn’t enough. While the Scripture above shows a value for confidentiality between friends, the following passages signal a scriptural value for transparency.
Take, for example, disciplinary cases involving objective and damaging sin.
Matthew 18:16, 17 – The same passage that recommends resolving it in private commands making it public if necessary.
Galatians 6:1 – It must be a public matter if someone was “caught in sin.”
1 Timothy 5:20 – Paul tells Timothy that an elder who “continues in sin” should be rebuked “in the presence of all.”
We may conclude from passages like these that we do not have the right to insist that other Christians cover up our sins. Other passages indicate that discussing others’ sins may be necessary for the healthy working of the local church.
1 Timothy 5:13-15
13
And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things......
14
I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully....
15
For some are already turned aside after Satan....
Proverbs 26:21-22
21
As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife....
22
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly....
Proverbs 11:13-14
13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter...
14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety...
Proverbs 20:19-19
19
He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips....
1 Peter 4:15-15
15
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other mens matters....
2 Thessalonians 3:11-11
11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies...
Matthew 12:36-37
36
But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment....
37
For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned....
Proverbs 18:6-8
6
A fools lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes....
7
A fools mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul....
8
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly....
20
And the Lord spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritanc...
21
And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth...
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Deuteronomy 14:28-29
28 At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates:...
29 And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within t......
Leviticus 27:30
30
And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lords: it is holy unto the Lord....
Deuteronomy 16:16-17
16
Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened brea......
17 Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee...
Genesis 14:14-24
14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, a......
15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand o......
16 And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people....
17 And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the......
18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God....
19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:...
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all....
21 And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself....
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth,...
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have......
24 Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their p......
Deuteronomy 26:1-2
1
And it shall be, when thou art come in unto the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, and possessest it, and dwellest......
2 That thou shalt take of the first of all the fruit of the earth, which thou shalt bring of thy land that the Lord thy God giveth thee, and shalt put i.....
Malachi 3:8-10
8
Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings....
9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation...
10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not o.....
Nehemiah 13:19-22
19 And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and ch......
20 So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without Jerusalem once or twice....
21 Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time f......
22 And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day.......
Nehemiah 10:28-29
28
And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves fr......
29 They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse, and into an oath, to walk in Gods law, which was given by Moses the servant of G.....
Nehemiah 13:10-12
10
And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled ever......
11 Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place...
12 Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries...
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