Preparing for the Marriage of the Lamb?
You do not need high powered equipment to see that the world around us is in a seemingly unstable position and maybe in crisis. This likely being caused by the greater adoption of non-biblical practices in our nation and around the world. Regrettably some of these practices have been adopted by followers of Christ, practices that they have adopted in order to gain acceptance in the world around them, or through the influence of false teachings or just plain rebellion against past generations or the “institution”.
Amongst everything we have an increase of those predicting “the end is near” including “prophesies” from some others. However, as Jesus said “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is” Mark 13:32-33 [NKJV] and also (Matt. 24:36–44; Luke 21:34–36)
We, in the church, need to take care that those around us who know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour look to and are guided by the truths of the Holy Bible rather than worldly standards, which can dim and can even block out the light shining out God’s Spirit and Truth.
Man and woman are important to God for it was not until He had created them and presented woman to man did God say His creation was very good; He also gave clear instructions giving them dominion over fish..... Subsequently throughout scripture there are highlighted the rights and wrongs in marriage and bringing up a family. These truths hold fast for those who know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.
In St. Paul’s second letter to Timothy he warns him of the coming of perilous times, then encourages him to continue in the things that he has learned and states that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 [NKJV]
Within every church marriages and families are a fundamental part, just as they are of the immediate community, the nation and most importantly God’s plan, for ultimately we, all in the church will be party to the marriage of the Lamb and the subsequent marriage supper.
It is incumbent on us to teach/equip on marriage and family according to scripture, and minister to marriages and family in addition to children, the youth and young adults. Take a look at some of the ways in which such a ministry can be incorporated or revived so easily into the local church through this link
“Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you. They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
1 Peter 4:1-11 [NKJV]
Marriages and families have for a long period come under an increasing spiritual attack. We need not only to have on our full spiritual armour but ensure that our weapons, the prayers of the church are in full and constant use. But, we need to take care that we and those around us who know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour look to and are guided by the truths of the Holy Bible rather than worldly standards which can dim and can even block out the light which shines out God's Spirit and Truth.
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