@myaccessbank please come and buy @ecobank_nigeria abeg… their services are too poor especially here in jos… there is always no network, only on branch in the entire state capital, a tiny branch with no chairs for the long queue customers to sit… 🆘
Introducing Vicki, the official mascot for @tincitymetro. She's here to help keep commuters informed and excited about public transit.
#YourRideToNewHeights
Embracing Our Dual Calling: Insights from Dr. Luke's Life and Works
Esteemed Professionals in Diverse Fields,
In a world where the delineation between secular work and spiritual vocation often seems stark, the life and literary contributions of Dr. Luke offer a compelling blueprint for integrating our professional expertise with our spiritual mission. As chronicled in Luke 1:1-3, Dr. Luke’s meticulous approach to documenting the life of Christ and the early church serves not only as a historical record but also as a profound example of how Professional skills can profoundly serve spiritual purposes.
Luke’s Scholarly Methodology: A Model for Professional Excellence
In the opening verses of his Gospel, Dr. Luke states his intention to write “an orderly account” of the events that have been “fulfilled among us,” drawing on the testimonies of “eyewitnesses and ministers of the word.” This approach underscores the importance of thorough research, fact-checking and reliance on firsthand information—principles that resonate deeply with modern professional disciplines, from medicine and law to academia and journalism.
The Gospel of Luke: A Testament to Rigorous Research
Dr. Luke’s Gospel is not just a narrative; it is a meticulously researched document that combines historical accuracy with theological depth. His attention to detail and commitment to accuracy serve as an exemplary model for professionals today. Whether in a laboratory, a courtroom, or a classroom, the same level of diligence and commitment to truth is paramount.
Acts of the Apostles: Chronicling the Spirit’s Movement
In the Acts of the Apostles, Dr. Luke shifts his focus from the life of Christ to the birth and expansion of the early Church. Here again, his careful documentation and narrative skills provide a vivid account of the Holy Spirit’s work. For modern Christian professionals, this signifies the potential to be agents of change and catalysts of innovation in their respective fields, inspired and guided by the same Spirit.
Integrating Vocation and Ministry
Dr. Luke’s dual role as a physician and a historian-theologian exemplifies the fusion of vocation and ministry. His contributions to the New Testament demonstrate that our secular professions can be powerful vehicles for ministry. Each of us, regardless of our professional background, is called to see our work as a ministry, an opportunity to serve and glorify God.
The Theophilus Mandate: Educating and Persuading
Dr. Luke's dedication of his works to Theophilus reflects a broader mandate: to educate and persuade through our vocational platforms. As professionals, we are called to be educators and influencers in our spheres, using our expertise to illuminate truths, dispel myths, and guide others towards wisdom and understanding.
Challenge to Christian Professionals
The life and works of Dr. Luke challenge us, as Christian professionals, to rethink the boundaries of our calling. We are encouraged to view our workplaces as mission fields, where our expertise can be used to serve, influence, and witness. Whether we are doctors, lawyers, educators, or engineers, our professions provide unique opportunities to exemplify Christian values and impact the world for Christ.
In conclusion, let us draw inspiration from Dr Luke’s example, embracing our dual calling with fervour and dedication. May we strive to excel in our professional endeavours and, through them, contribute to the unfolding narrative of God’s kingdom on earth.
Yours in the pursuit of excellence and faith,
Dr Dele Osunmakinde
Not every 'angelic' encounter is consistent with the gospel...not every message from an 'angel from heaven' should be taken hook, line and sinker...or why did Apostle Paul say, if we or an angel from heaven preach to you any other gospel...let him be accursed...if angels are not capable of such...
In an attempt to sound 'spiritual' many are elevating angelic encounters and manifestations above scripture...
The world of the new man in Christ has not been put in subjection to angels but to the Lord and His word(Hebrews 5:2)
This is because there are many things the father says to us that He has never said to angels(for instance to which of the angels did he ever say you are my son?)
This is why in the final analysis we will judge angels...selah!
Remember even Satan can transform himself into an angel of light...be careful!
Especially when you begin to fast and pray to see angels for validation...you will indeed see 'something ' that will come with 'another gospel'
This is the origin of many unbiblical identities and doctrines flying around.
So,Stay in the word.
Be a man of the word before, during and after encounters.
Stay in the word
Stay safe!
Watch out for my piece on angels, demons and thrones!
Concerning prayer shawls...
Beloved,
I pen this missive with a profound sense of urgency and a deep-seated concern for the spiritual well-being of our ecclesiastical community. As we traverse our collective journey of faith, we must exercise discernment in distinguishing practices that align with the teachings of our Lord from those that do not. In this context, I wish to address the burgeoning trend of employing prayer shawls in our worship and devotional life.
The Holy Scriptures, our paramount source of truth and guidance, do not mention or advocate using such items in our spiritual practices. The New Testament, in particular, underscores the importance of a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, a relationship that is not contingent on physical objects or rituals but on faith, love, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
Let me articulate this with absolute clarity: there is no room for prayer shawls and mantles within the doctrine of the New Testament. While these items may appear to augment our spiritual practices, they are elements of a false spirituality. They contribute nothing to our communion with God, but rather, they portend danger. They can lead us into idolatry, where the object usurps the place of God Himself. They can engender a false sense of spirituality, where the outward manifestation of Piety is mistaken for genuine faith.
I am aware that some may point to instances in the New Testament where physical items were used in a spiritual context, such as the Apostle Paul using aprons and handkerchiefs (Acts 19:12) or the woman with the issue of blood touching the garment of Jesus (Matthew 9:20-22). However, it is crucial to understand that these were specific, prophetic acts, not general practices or doctrines to be followed by all believers. They were unique events, guided by the Holy Spirit, not prescriptions for regular worship or prayer. So, they are not doctrinal in nature, neither taught by the Lord or Apostle Paul as what we must continue to do. Imagine putting a prayer shawl on your head or around your neck or covering yourself to pray.
Using a prayer shawl under any guise or form does not make you 'more spiritual'. Ironically, it makes you more 'carnal', and it's an unnecessary distraction and ritual.
From a philosophical standpoint, the use of physical items in our spiritual practices can lead us to conflate the symbol with reality. In this case, the prayer shawl or mantle becomes a symbol of our faith rather than our faith being anchored in our relationship with God. This perilous path can divert us from the true essence of our faith and into a form of spirituality that is not grounded in the teachings of the Bible.
Moreover, such practices can veer dangerously close to spiritism, a belief system that seeks to interact with spirits through physical means. This is not only unbiblical but is explicitly warned against in Scripture. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, the Lord admonishes His people against those who practice divination, sorcery or engage with the spiritual realm in ways not ordained by Him. It is a grave matter that can lead to spiritual harm and estrangement from God.
Our faith is not a faith of symbols or rituals but of a living, dynamic relationship with God. It is a faith that transforms us from the inside out, not one concerned with outward appearances. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, "The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17).
I implore you, therefore, to exercise discernment. Do not let the allure of physical items distract you from the true essence of your faith. Let us focus on the Word of God, on prayer, and on living a life that reflects the love of Christ. Let us not be led astray by practices not rooted in the teachings of the Bible.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
PD
I read this troubling statement issued by Pastor @TomiArayomi on their arrest and abuse of rights by officers of @OfficialDSSNG . Very sad.
Where is his Assistant, Emmanuel Ezerika?
The DSS is directly supervised by @MBuhari who must direct them to release Ezirika immediately✍🏾
When you’re pregnant with destiny and it hasn’t manifested yet it’s because before anything is birthed the one carrying it has to be stretched! The good news is there is a due date!
If you've been taught well in church, your Pastor wouldn't need to tell you whom to vote for. You'd know.
Saturday, let's vote out gangrene from our state government houses. Vote in competent candidates. No party should be rewarded with continuity if it failed in the last 4 yrs.
Dino Melaye confirmed that PDP spent over 400 billion on presidential election campaign, and you are wondering why they embezzle money once they get there. We stand by our slogan, we no dey give what????