Apprenticeship in This Present Age - Journey to Christlikeness

Apprenticeship in This Present Age

The concept of the present Christian life as an "apprenticeship" or preparation for the Millennium is not explicitly stated in Scripture, but there are biblical principles that support the idea that the way Christians live now prepares them for roles and responsibilities in the future Kingdom, including the Millennium. Here’s how this concept can be understood:

1. Training for Reigning:
Revelation 20:4-6 (KJV): "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them... and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." This passage describes believers reigning with Christ during the Millennium. The idea is that the faithful life Christians live now is preparing them for their roles in this future reign.

Luke 19:17 (KJV): "And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities." In the Parable of the Ten Minas, Jesus teaches that faithfulness in small responsibilities now leads to greater responsibilities in His Kingdom. This suggests that our current life is a preparation or apprenticeship for future leadership.

2. Sanctification and Growth:
Romans 8:29 (KJV): "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren." The process of sanctification—becoming more like Christ—is part of preparing Christians for their future role in His Kingdom.

Philippians 1:6 (KJV): "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." This verse speaks to the ongoing work of God in the believer’s life, shaping them for future purposes, possibly including their roles in the Millennium.

3. Learning Obedience and Faithfulness:
Hebrews 12:10-11 (KJV): "For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." The discipline and trials Christians experience now are seen as training in righteousness, which can be viewed as preparation for future service.

1 Corinthians 6:2-3 (KJV): "Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?" This passage implies that Christians are in training now for their future role in judgment during the Kingdom age.

4. Stewardship and Responsibility:
1 Peter 4:10 (KJV): "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." The idea of stewardship—faithfully managing what God has given—prepares Christians for greater responsibilities in the Millennium.

2 Timothy 2:12 (KJV): "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us." This verse connects current suffering and perseverance with the promise of reigning with Christ, indicating that present faithfulness is a preparation for future rule.


The present Christian life can indeed be seen as an apprenticeship for the Millennium, where believers are being prepared for future responsibilities and reign with Christ. The concept is supported by various Scriptures that highlight the connection between faithfulness, growth, and preparation in this age, with the roles Christians will have in the age to come. This apprenticeship involves learning obedience, stewardship, and growing in Christlikeness, all of which will be crucial in the Millennium.

Preparing to reign with Christ

Preparing to reign with Christ during the Millennium involves investing in things that have eternal significance and align with God’s Kingdom values. Here are some priorities and important actions Christians can take now to prepare for their future role:

1. Spiritual Growth and Sanctification:
Pursue Holiness: Growth in personal holiness is vital. As Hebrews 12:14 (KJV) says, "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord." Spiritual maturity and sanctification prepare believers to fulfill their roles in God’s Kingdom.

Transforming Character: Romans 12:2 (KJV) exhorts, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." Investing in spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and fasting helps believers become more like Christ, ready to serve in the Millennium.

2. Faithful Stewardship:
Using Gifts and Talents: In Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents teaches the importance of using the gifts and resources God has given. Faithfulness in small responsibilities now is preparation for greater responsibilities later. 1 Peter 4:10 (KJV) also encourages, "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

Managing Resources Wisely: Jesus also spoke about storing up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21, KJV). Investing time, money, and energy in things that have eternal value, like supporting ministries, helping the needy, and spreading the Gospel, aligns with Kingdom priorities.

3. Building and Investing in Relationships:
Discipleship and Evangelism: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20, KJV) commands believers to make disciples. Investing in the spiritual growth of others through discipleship, teaching, and evangelism is directly tied to the expansion of God’s Kingdom.

Loving Others: Jesus emphasized the greatest commandments are to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-40, KJV). Cultivating love, forgiveness, and compassion in relationships reflects Kingdom values and prepares believers for their future roles.

4. Perseverance in Trials:
Enduring Hardships: 2 Timothy 2:12 (KJV) states, "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him." Trials and suffering can be seen as training grounds for reigning with Christ. James 1:12 (KJV) reinforces this by saying, "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life."

Building Faith and Trust: Persevering through trials builds character, hope, and faith (Romans 5:3-5, KJV), which are essential qualities for those who will rule with Christ.

5. Engaging in Kingdom Work:
Service and Ministry: Engaging in acts of service, whether within the church or in the broader community, is a way of participating in God’s Kingdom now. Matthew 25:40 (KJV) emphasizes the importance of serving others: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

Spreading the Gospel: Mark 16:15 (KJV) commands, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Evangelism and missions are critical investments in the future Kingdom.

6. Cultivating Humility and Servant Leadership:
Learning Servant Leadership: Jesus taught that those who desire to be great must be servants (Mark 10:43-45, KJV). Developing a heart of humility and service is crucial preparation for leadership in God’s Kingdom.

Faithfulness in Small Things: Luke 16:10 (KJV) says, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." Faithfulness in small, seemingly insignificant tasks demonstrates readiness for greater responsibilities in the Millennium.

7. Living with an Eternal Perspective:
Setting Your Mind on Eternal Things: Colossians 3:2 (KJV) advises, "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." Living with an eternal perspective shapes priorities and decisions, ensuring that investments are made in what truly matters in the long run.

Anticipating Christ’s Return: 2 Peter 3:11-12 (KJV) challenges believers to live holy and godly lives in anticipation of Christ’s return. This urgency impacts how believers invest their time and resources now.


The most important investments for the Millennium involve growing in Christlikeness, faithfully stewarding God’s gifts, building relationships that reflect Kingdom values, enduring trials with perseverance, engaging in service and ministry, cultivating humility, and maintaining an eternal perspective. These priorities align with God's purpose and prepare believers to reign with Christ in His future Kingdom.

UNWAVERING FAITH

 

UNWAVERING FAITH

Unwavering Faith: Trusting Beyond Sight

Unwavering faith is like a sturdy bridge that spans the chasm between our hopes and reality. It’s not merely belief; it’s an unshakeable trust in something greater than ourselves. In the Christian journey, this faith transcends feelings or fleeting hopes—it’s a firm conviction rooted in the promises of God.

What Is Unwavering Faith?

Unwavering faith is certain about what God has promised in His Word, even before we see the outcome. It’s faith without doubt, unwavering like an anchor in a stormy sea. The book of James warns against wavering: “But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6-8 CSB).

Imagine a stick floating in water, uncertain of its direction—sometimes moving forward, then backward. Our faith shouldn’t waver like that stick. Instead, it should stand firm, anchored in God’s promises.

Why Is Unwavering Faith Important?

1. Receiving from God: Unwavering faith receives from God. It’s the unwavering confession of our hope based on what God has said. We hold on to His promises without wavering, knowing that He is faithful (Hebrews 10:23 CSB).

2. Confession Matters: Our confession shapes our reality. When we declare God’s promises—whether for healing, provision, or strength—we align ourselves with His truth. It’s not about how we feel; it’s about what God has declared.

   • Need healing? Confess: “I am healed by the stripes of Jesus.”
   • Need provision? Declare: “My God supplies all my needs.”
   • Need strength? Affirm: “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

Unwavering faith isn’t blind optimism; it’s rooted in God’s character and promises. So, let’s hold fast, knowing that He who promised is faithful¹. Our unwavering faith bridges the gap between what we hope for and what we cannot yet see.

This faith is steadfast, immovable trust in God, regardless of circumstances or challenges. It is characterized by an unshakeable belief in God's promises, His character, and His sovereignty, often demonstrated through obedience, trust, and perseverance even in the face of adversity.

Let us look on what the Scripture says:

1. James 1:6-8:

   • "But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do."

2. Hebrews 11:1:

   • "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

3. Hebrews 11:6:

   • "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."

4. Romans 4:20-21:

   • "No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised."

5. Mark 11:23:

   • "Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him."

6. Proverbs 3:5-6:

   • "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

7. Psalm 125:1:

   • "Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever."

8. Isaiah 26:3-4:

• "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock."

QUALITIES OF UNWAVERING FAITH

1. Trust in God's Promises: This involves believing in God's promises without doubting. An example can be seen in Abraham, who trusted God's promise of a son despite his and Sarah's old age.

    Genesis 15:6 - "And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness."

2. Persistence in Prayer: It involves persistently praying and trusting in God's timing and will.  Daniel continued to pray faithfully despite the decree against it.

   Daniel 6:10 - "When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously."

3. Courage in Adversity: It involves displaying courage and confidence in God during difficult times. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego trusted God's deliverance from the fiery furnace.

   Daniel 3:17-18 - "If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."

4. Obedience to God's Word: It involves obeying God's commands faithfully. Noah obeyed God's command to build the ark.

   Genesis 6:22 - "Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him."

5. Hope in God's Provision: It involves trusting that God will provide, even in challenging circumstances. Elijah trusted God to provide food during the drought.

   1 Kings 17:6 - "And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook."

6. Steadfastness in Trials: It involves remaining steadfast and unwavering in faith during trials. Job  remained faithful to God despite losing everything.

   Job 1:21 - "And he said, 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.'"

7. Faithfulness in Witnessing: It involves being a faithful witness and testimony of God's work. Paul continued to preach the gospel despite persecution.

   Acts 20:24 - "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."

These qualities of unwavering faith are exemplified throughout the Bible, showing how individuals trusted God in various circumstances, ultimately relying on His faithfulness and power.

A Free verse Poem

In the quiet of the dawn, when the world still slumbers, 

I find solace in the delicate dance of light and shadow. 

The sun, a golden promise, rises above the horizon, 

casting its warm embrace upon the earth. 

It is here, in this gentle moment, that faith blooms.

Faith, like a fragile blossom, unfurls its petals within us. 

It is not loud or boastful; rather, it whispers softly, urging us to believe in the unseen, the intangible. 

It is the unwavering trust that anchors our souls, 

even when storms rage and doubts assail.

I see faith in the dew-kissed leaves, trembling yet resolute. 

They know that the sun will return, that life will surge forth once more. 

And so, they cling to their branches, steadfast in their conviction.

In the quiet of the dawn, I too find my faith. It is not in grand gestures or lofty proclamations. 

Instead, it resides in the ordinary: the first sip of morning tea, 

the touch of a loved one’s hand, the whispered prayers that rise like incense.

Faith is the bridge between what is and what could be. 

It spans the chasm of uncertainty, connecting us to hope, to possibility. 

It is the compass that guides us through the labyrinth of existence, 

pointing toward a distant, shimmering truth.

So let us hold onto our faith, dear friend. Let it be our lantern in the darkest nights, our refuge in the tempests. 

For in its quiet strength lies the promise of a new day, a fresh beginning. 

And as the sun rises once more, we shall rise with it, unwavering and full of grace.

By Rev Dr Rolando E Santiago DD, DPM, ThD
President- EaglesNest Christian Academy and School of Theology

Putting off and Putting on......

 

PUT OFF AND PUT ON

Several passages in the Bible command believers to put off certain behaviors and put on others, to “clothe themselves”, and to “let” or allow certain qualities to be manifested in their lives. Acting upon these passages will enable you to overcome practically every challenge you will face in your counseling as well as in your own life.

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace. (Romans 6:12-14)

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:8-10)

The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Romans 13:12-14)

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. (Romans 14:13)

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.

(Romans 14:19)

Therefore, as it is written: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31)

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. (1 Corinthians 13:11)

Do everything in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14)

Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. (2 Corinthians 7:1)

For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:53-58)

Put off the works of the flesh: The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)

Put on the fruit of the Spirit: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (Galatians 5:22-26)

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

(Ephesians 4:22-32)

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. (Ephesians 5:6-7)

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

(Philippians 1:27)

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7)

You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. 

Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:7-17)

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8)

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. (Hebrews 4:14)

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, (Hebrews 6:1)

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have… (Hebrews 13: 5)

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. (James 3:13)

…All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. (1 Peter 5:5-6)

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. (1 John 3:18)

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God (1 John 4:7)

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Korah and His Children

 

Korah and His Children

Korah and His Children: A simple Study

Who They Are

Korah: Korah was a Levite, a descendant of Kohath, one of the sons of Levi. This lineage is significant because the Kohathites had specific duties in the service of the Tabernacle, but Korah sought more authority and challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron.

Children of Korah: Korah's sons were Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph (Exodus 6:24). They were also Levites, involved in the religious duties of the community. Despite their father's rebellion, they did not perish with him and went on to have significant roles in Israel's history, particularly in the temple worship under David and Solomon.

The Rebellion

Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and On (from the tribe of Reuben), led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. They gathered 250 leaders from the community and accused Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves above the assembly of the Lord.

Verses:

• Numbers 16:1-3:

  Now Korah the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, with Dathan and Abiram the sons of Eliab, and On the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men; and they rose up before Moses with some of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty leaders of the congregation, representatives of the congregation, men of renown. They gathered together against Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?”

Consequences of the Rebellion

Moses challenged Korah and his followers to present themselves before the Lord with censers of incense. The Lord instructed Moses and Aaron to separate themselves from the assembly so He could destroy them instantly. However, Moses interceded, and the punishment was directed specifically at the rebels.

Verses:

• Numbers 16:31-35:

  Now it came to pass, as he finished speaking all these words, that the ground split apart under them, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up, with their households and all the men with Korah, with all their goods. So they and all those with them went down alive into the pit; the earth closed over them, and they perished from among the assembly. Then all Israel who were around them fled at their cry, for they said, “Lest the earth swallow us up also!” And a fire came out from the Lord and consumed the two hundred and fifty men who were offering incense.

What Happened to Korah's Children?

Despite their father's rebellion, Korah's children were spared. They later played significant roles in the religious life of Israel, particularly in the service of the temple. The descendants of Korah became famous for their musical contributions and compositions in the Book of Psalms.

Verses:

• Numbers 26:11:

  Nevertheless the children of Korah did not die.

Many of the Psalms are attributed to the sons of Korah, highlighting their importance in Israel's worship practices.

Verses:

• Psalms attributed to the sons of Korah: Psalms 42, 44-49, 84-85, 87-88.

Moral Lesson

The story of Korah's rebellion teaches several important lessons:

1. Respect for God-Ordained Leadership: Korah's challenge was not just against Moses and Aaron but against God's established order. The rebellion illustrates the importance of respecting divine authority and leadership.

2. The Consequences of Pride and Rebellion: Korah's pride led him to challenge God's chosen leaders, resulting in severe punishment. This serves as a warning against pride and rebellion.

3. God’s Mercy and Justice: While God punished the rebels, He spared the innocent, including Korah's children. This demonstrates God’s justice and mercy, highlighting that each individual is responsible for their own actions.

4. Redemption and Legacy: The descendants of Korah, despite their father's actions, went on to have a positive and lasting impact on Israel's worship. This underscores the possibility of redemption and the opportunity to create a new legacy despite a troubled past.

Conclusion

The story of Korah and his children provides profound insights into leadership, obedience, the consequences of rebellion, and the possibility of redemption. Through this narrative, we learn about the seriousness of challenging God’s established order and the hope for restoration and new beginnings even after great failures.

By Rev Dr Rolando E Santiago DD, DPM, ThD

President- EaglesNest Christian Academy and School of Theology

Walking with God

Walking with God

Introduction

Walking with God is a central theme in the Bible, representing a close and continuous relationship with Him. This study explores what it means to walk with God, using various scriptures to illustrate how believers can live a life that is pleasing to Him.

Outline of this Lesson

1. Obedience and Faithfulness:

  Example of Enoch (Genesis 5:24)**: Enoch's life is a powerful example of someone who walked faithfully with God. His walk was characterized by continuous fellowship and obedience, leading to him being taken directly by God.

Genesis 5:24: "Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away."

Noah (Genesis 6:9)**: Noah’s faithfulness and obedience to God's commands amidst a corrupt world highlight the importance of righteous living. His commitment to God’s instructions saved his family and preserved humanity.

 Genesis 6:9: "Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God."

2. Humility and Dependence**:

   - Micah 6:8: This verse emphasizes walking humbly with God, which means recognizing our dependence on Him and submitting to His will. Humility in our walk with God involves acknowledging that His ways are higher than our ways.

Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

3. Living by Faith:

   - Hebrews 11:5-7: This passage recounts the faith of Enoch and Noah, illustrating that walking with God requires a steadfast trust in His promises even when they are not yet visible.

4. Rooted in Christ:

   - Colossians 2:6-7: Walking with God in the New Testament context means living a life rooted in Christ. It involves continual growth in faith, being built up in the teachings of Christ, and expressing gratitude.

Colossians 2:6-7: "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."

 Practical Steps to Walk with God

1. Daily Devotion and Prayer

   - Spend time daily in prayer and reading the Bible. This builds a strong foundation of communication and understanding of God's will.

   Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16).

15But the news about Jesus spread all the more, and great crowds came to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16Yet He frequently withdrew to the wilderness to pray. 17One day Jesus was teaching, and the Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. People had come from Jerusalem and from every village of Galilee and Judea, and the power of the Lord was present for Him to heal the sick.…

2. Obey God's Commands

   - Strive to live according to the teachings of the Bible. Obedience is a crucial aspect of walking with God.

   Abraham's obedience to God's command to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4).

    1Now the LORD said to Abram,
        “Go forth from your country,
        And from your relatives
        And from your father’s house,
        To the land which I will show you;

2And I will make you a great nation,
        And I will bless you,
        And make your name great;
        And so you shall be a blessing;

3And I will bless those who bless you,
        And the one who curses you I will curse.
        And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.”

      4So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him; and Lot went with him. Now Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.

3. Practice Humility and Repentance

   - Humility involves recognizing our shortcomings and turning to God for guidance and forgiveness.

   King David’s repentance after his sin with Bathsheba (Psalm 51).

1Have mercy on me,a O God,

according to Your loving devotion;

according to Your great compassion,

blot out my transgressions.

2Wash me clean of my iniquity

and cleanse me from my sin.

3For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me.

4Against You, You only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in Your sight,

4. Community and Fellowship

   - Engage with a community of believers for mutual encouragement and accountability. Walking with God is not a solitary journey but one that benefits from communal support.

   - Early Christians devoted themselves to fellowship and the apostles' teaching (Acts 2:42-47).

42They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

      43Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; 45and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.

5. Live Out Your Faith

   - Demonstrate your faith through actions, such as serving others and sharing the gospel.

   -The Good Samaritan's act of kindness (Luke 10:25-37).

 25And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” 27And he answered, “YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” 28And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.”

Discussion Questions

1. What does walking humbly with God look like in your daily life?

2. How can you incorporate more time for prayer and Bible study in your routine?

3. What are some challenges you face in obeying God's commands, and how can you overcome them?

4. How does being part of a faith community help you in your walk with God?

Conclusion

Walking with God involves a daily commitment to faith, obedience, humility, and community. By following biblical examples and practical steps, believers can cultivate a closer relationship with God and live a life that reflects His will.

By Rev Dr Rolando E Santiago DD, DPM, ThD

President- EaglesNest Christian Academy and School of Theology