“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:” (James 1.1) This letter of James, brother of Christ in His humanity, is directed to believers (many were Jewish Christians scattered during the Diaspora) in contact with many different religions; belief systems like Judaism, the Asian religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, and the Gnostic sects influenced by Platonic thought, etc. James addresses that religion which is an external facade, ritualistic, ceremonial and marked by outward observance with the Greek word “Threskeia” / θρησκεία in Ch. 1.26-27. In contrast that which springs from a true relationship with God, and the subsequent life or fruit which grows as a response to this communion is used with two different words (theosebeia / eulabeia); that is to say, a reverent and pious worship of God. The world is awash with false ideas and concepts about how to know and relate to God (Threskeia). Many have bought the insidious lie of “universalism” which suggests that there are many ways to know God, as if God were somehow schizophrenic, and couldn´t make up His mind. A popular definition of religion is man´s attempt to know God, while God´s initiative through the Cross of Jesus Christ is His merciful overture to man. Are we hopelessly embracing man-invented notions and ideas of knowing God (humanism), or are we trusting, resting and rejoicing in God´s way (Christianity)? When Jesus rejected man-made religion and presented Himself as the only Savior for humanity´s sins, the majority of the people wanted Him crucified. Why? We love our sins and our religious customs, and we proudfully disdain anyone who suggests that salvation is God´s gift of grace, not a work of man. We want to be in control, we want the credit, and we want to crucify rather than be crucified. “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ´If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me,´” (Matthew 16.24). The offer is still good today…

MINISTRY THIS YEAR

Seminary Seban:
I have just finished teaching Evangelism and Discipleship for the first semester, and will rest the second semester. The course went well as we combined theory with practice. Generally speaking, I taught a proper definition of the Gospel, presenting the Gospel, and participation in the Gospel.  

Christian Missionary Alliance Church:
Our group of young professionals is named “Strong Tower”. We recently had a great camp entitled “COMMANDOS FOR CHRIST II” with 58 young professionals (PLEASE SEE ATTACHED PICTURES). Also, the challenges we confronted at the beginning of the year have by and large, been answered by the grace of God. I am working with seven house pastors (three are new), twenty-seven leaders, and approximately eighty participants. Here are some key dates to pray for: