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How A Mission Trip Changed Our Lives

On Mission
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How A Mission Trip Changed Our Lives

At Our God Given Mission, we take Missions very seriously. Our mission is to help young people discover Jesus and to empower them to make Jesus known. As part of this, every year, we take multiple groups of people on Mission. From the 28th of October to the 1st of November 2021, we took a group of young people over on a missionary trip to Tenerife. Beforehand we trained on ZOOM, completed an evangelism course and met for the first time at the airport for the trip. We saw amazing things happen in Tenerife and we are excited to share with you some snippets of the kind of things that happened.

Day One

Words by Temi Oluwadare 

We arrived at Tenerife very early in the day. Our first goal was to leave the airport and pick up the bus we would be using to get around. This first stop was Fasina, in the more remote parts of the Island! Honestly, for me the drive was a bit wild – but the accommodation there was on some beautiful mountains away from the busyness of the Tenerife strip.

Once we arrived at the halfway house in Fasina, we were able to spend some time with John and Natasha who run a halfway house for those nurturing a relationship with Jesus after facing hardship. After this, we relocated to our accommodation nearer to the strip. Along the way to our new accommodation, we stopped in Lidl to pick up some key essentials!! Lots of snacks, pasta, breakfasts and a vast amount of juice. The plan was that this food would keep us going throughout the week.

After we arrived at our accommodation and we had all settled in. We went to El Cordero for a late lunch/early dinner. The atmosphere was lovely and this was the first time that we could all sit together as a team and begin getting to know each other. We used this space to discuss our personal lives, what we do and more. I loved this time because it was great for us to start building relationships. After we ate, we went to explore the strip, Las Americas – there were countless nightclubs and bars. It was exciting for us to see where we would be going to minister to people. I think at this point, we were all quite excited. After this, we went back to our apartment to have a Bible study. The study looked at ‘the ability to stay hot’ and we explored the dangers of familiarity and how it could hinder us from learning from people around us.

After this study, we continued to learn more about each other. We played a game that encouraged us to consider 3 items that summarise us well. But also a song game where we all shared our favourite songs and had to guess who’s song was whose. I loved this day because it set the tone so well of what the week would look like. Love, laughter & Jesus.

Day Two

Words by Oladipupo Joseph

The 2nd day of the retreat was possibly the most packed day. We were able to sleep earlier the previous night, so we got ready to go for our first prayer walk at 9 am. By God’s grace, our accommodation was close to a beach of sorts which was perfect for reflection and prayer. I really enjoyed the walk there; the open air and lovely weather encouraged the group’s conversations as we got to know each other before we separated to speak to God and it marked the beginning of a day filled with His Presence.

Afterwards, we got back home to have our showers and eat breakfast. Temi and Deborah handled most of the cooking which was truly kind of them. Tenerife has a lot of mountains which are honestly so beautiful to behold. As we stepped out of the house, climbing one of these was our first destination. We first got drinks from a nearby shop and made our way up the mountain. It wasn’t too steep and took us probably about 20-30 minutes to get to the top and remained there for about the same period. I remember the view made me feel so grateful and my problems so small. It was impossible to not admire the beauty of creation and feel at one with everything, I won’t forget that anytime soon.

We climbed down the mountain and walked down to the van to head to our next destination Golf del Sur. The experience here was more of a continuation of the beach. We were closer to the ocean as well with there being a large beach nearby so we could clearly see the flow and harmony it possessed even as it crashed into the sculpted rocks by the shore. Unfortunately, we could not go on the beach, but it was a worthwhile experience, nonetheless. We then headed to the strip to survey and acquaint ourselves with the area.

We journeyed back home afterwards to get some rest in preparation to go evangelise at night-time. I think we played a game or two but mostly talked and read books. After we regained some energy, we prayed and set out to the strip for the first time. We separated into pairs with a boy and girl- with Trudi and me at the front. Looking back, we must have looked like soldiers setting forth in some battle formation. At first, I had feelings of hesitance mixed with excitement as we approached the first person we spoke to. However, that night was one of the best I have ever had.

I got to meet and speak to so many different people, who engaged us in different ways and although some conversations felt more fruitful than others, I had a general sense of dropping seeds after we left each one. As we met up at the end of the night to debrief and share our experiences, I experienced even more beautiful conversations that the rest of our group had. We then prayed for them all and prepared for bed. However, we ended up playing games till about 5 am and honestly, I would not have minded that day going on forever.

Day Three

Words by Deborah Brown

After a Friday night of intense competitive games (post evangelism), we reconvened in the morning early as usual. We were reminded of the life of discipleship that we were committed to; being submissive in learning from our Lord Jesus and from the more mature in the faith. We were also reminded of our due diligence to offer that same discipleship to others – being poured out as a drink offering.

All that before lunch! Together, we enjoyed the European delicacy spaghetti bolognese courtesy of the amazing Tems and Trudi (who thankfully spotted that the supposed bottle chilli actually said ‘food colouring’). This was followed by a calming walk to the beach, a semi-dip in the sea and yet another game of Mafia (with unsurprisingly zealous participants).

Then came another Bible Study session on the 86% Christian – who, by the way, doesn’t actually exist!!! There is no such thing! We go all in! Nothing but 100% is acceptable! We’re also encouraged by the fact that this 100% Christlike living is by His grace. Grace through faith – the same faith by which we are saved. We live our lives committed to Him, dependent on Him.

With this in our hearts and minds we set out back to the streets of Tenerife that night preaching the Good News of Christ to people – one having no plan and no way forward for his life; another being stuck in a rut feeling like he wants to commit to Jesus but thinking he won’t be able to give 100% and will go back to the world; and another seemingly knowledgeable but oh so confused. We preached the Gospel to such as these, and continue in prayer for their hearts and souls to come Him, knowing that whom the Son sets free is truly free indeed.

Day Four

Words by Trudi Auletta

We woke up early on Sunday morning for our last full day in Tenerife – we began, like other mornings, with a prayer walk, before coming back and getting ready for Church!

We had the privilege of participating in the service at the Tenerife Family Church – with myself (Trudi) being able to share my testimony of coming to faith and a bit about the encounters we had so far during our time in Tenerife, and M.T delivering the sermon on the topic of ‘How To Change The World’. The members of the church were very hospitable towards us and it was lovely to speak to some of them about their experiences in ministry and missions.

Before we went out evangelising on the strip, we visited The Living Room – a supportive drop-in centre that “support people, listen to people, share testimonies with people and often pray with people”, run by Rachel from the Tenerife Family Church and located on the strip. Rachel shared some inspiring stories that she has witnessed in her 12 years as a missionary in Tenerife and gave us some exciting insight into the future of The Living Room. We chilled together, prayed together, grabbed some dinner, and then we finally went out onto the strip one last time.

Our final evening of evangelising continued to be fruitful just like the rest of the nights, as we were able to proclaim the good news to many people! It was particularly interesting as this night happened to fall on Halloween. There was once again lots of unique encounters and conversations that were held and we are trusting God to continue His work in all of those individuals.

Once we headed home, we prayed for all of the interactions and thanked God for His faithfulness during the trip, and prepared for our departure the following morning. (Preparation may or may not have involved a few more rounds of mafia).

Day 5

Words by Daniel Atere

As a group we knew there was only one way to start this day….at 1 am playing mafia. Once again for the fourth time, Deborah and Ladi were mafia’s but we all knew it was Deborah’s tactic that won the game. After many “one more games” we went to bed to take a quick nap to be up for 7 am. This wasn’t going to be an ordinary morning though, as Nana made the decision to get baptised as a public declaration of his faith and his obedience to God’s command in the Bible. We first walked down to the beach to do our morning prayer, we thanked God for all He had done on this trip and what He is yet to do.

Before Michael and I baptised Nana, we all had to adjust to the waters temperature step by step until the water got up to our waist, we prayed for Nana and baptised him. It was a wonderful experience as Nana came out of the water, just the knowledge that a new and wonderful life is ahead of him is something we were all joyful about. When we go back home, we were in good time to pack the rest of our things, shower and have breakfast and of course, one more game of cheat (which Nana won, clearly because of the baptism). After, we had to get the airport time to make sure there weren’t any issues with documentation and all of that. Now, I hadn’t yet done my lateral flow test to get my certificate to fly but I was sure the results will come out negative so before arriving at the airport I was as calm.

When I did the test, we all went through security and waited for the results. As I opened the e-mail I was sure it was negative so you can imagine my disappointment when I saw positive, my chest was beating, palm-sweating but I held on the God’s promise to get me back with negative results. As I told the others, there was suddenly a realisation that I could be here for another week or so. I went back out through security and attempted to take another test at the same place but the ladies there were not having it because of the company policy of only doing the test once. I asked around the airport and no one had any other alternative apart from doing another test. Mike made a few calls and in a matter of minutes Neil a guy from the local church was there to help me.

We first drove back to his house and I met his lovely family, and the way they embraced me as if they were also sure that my results were negative was mind-blowing. I thought they would have wanted me to keep my mask on and stay in a corner but no, the first thing they asked me to do was to remove my mask and assure me everything will be fine. After making a few calls, Neil found a local clinic that was still open, before we went his wife prayed for me and prayed that the test will come back negative and because God is faithful to these promises the result did come back negative. I got my certificate to fly and booked a direct flight to London leaving that evening. This whole trip, especially the start and the finish taught me that if God says He’ll do something, He will do it, maybe not how we envision it or when we expect it but He will do it. KB a Christian rapper once said to “write your plans in pencil and allow God to write his in pen”, more than ever before I’m learning to trust God’s word and allow His say to be the final say, and even when I feel fear, I’ll still do it in faith anyways. This whole trip has been a whole experience and the people that I went with were absolutely amazing and I wouldn’t have had it any other way!

Are you going to go on mission?

Jesus’ instruction was simple and clear. When He was leaving the earth to be with the Father, He gave us the Great Commission. He commanded us all to preach the Gospel and to make disciples of all nations. Whether you do this in a different country or at your workplace, or in your family, that’s for you to work out. However, the command is non-negotiable. It’s for all.

If you are interested in coming on future mission trips then please email hello@ourgodgivenmission.com and express your interest. Our next mission trip will be in the second quarter of 2022. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Lessons From King Solomon About Backsliding

Chinedu Agwu
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Lessons From King Solomon About Backsliding
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I am sure we have all at some point read or heard a passage from the book of Proverbs, Song of Solomon or Ecclesiastes- books that carry threads of wisdom through them. As we know King Solomon had the honour of being the wisest King in the Bible. However, to who much is given, much is expected. Through examples such as that of Samson or even King David, we see men who were entrusted with a gift or a position of power and abused it. Despite the great gift King Solomon was bestowed with, he was still subject to sin and unlike his father, he drew further away from God. Essentially, he ended up backsliding…so how did he get there?

God’s Relationship with Solomon

God gave Solomon wisdom, very great insight, and understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore. Solomon’s wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the people of the East, greater than all the wisdom of Egypt. He was wiser than anyone — wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, sons of Mahol. His reputation extended to all the surrounding nations

1 Kings 4:29-31

In this Solomon requested wisdom and this was given to him. God even commended the humble nature of his request and exceeded his request by adding wealth and honour to the list! (1 Kings 3:10-14) and it was such a good thing that he attained that wisdom. We are certainly reaping from it today.

Solomon Turns from God

King Solomon loved many foreign women in addition to Pharaoh’s daughter: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women from the nations about which the Lord had told the Israelites, “You must not intermarry with them, and they must not intermarry with you, because they will turn your heart away to follow their gods.” To these women Solomon was deeply attached in love – 1 Kings 11:1-2

Foreign women were Solomon’s vice and idol and he never actively tried to wean himself off them. He didn’t even exercise or tap into the gift of vast wisdom that was given to him- but instead, he sought vices out. He allowed these women to take precedence in his heart and turn it towards other gods. His devotion to God gradually deteriorated.

Solomon did what was evil in the Lord’s sight, and unlike his father David, he did not remain loyal to the Lord…The Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice.

1 Kings 11:6, 9

The Lord appeared to King Solomon twice first in a dream for Solomon to make a request from Him (1 King 3:5). He also appeared to Solomon a second time saying if Solomon obeyed His command and lived according to His will, that He would establish the throne of Solomon’s kingdom over Israel forever (1 Kings 9:2). In God’s latter appearance to Solomon, He blesses him but also issues a warning: “But if you or your descendants turn away from me and do not observe the commands and decrees I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name” (1 King 9:6-7).

Solomon did not observe what the Lord said, which made the Lord angry. To expound on this point further, when in right living with God we can experience fruitful moments where God can bless us richly, where we walk intimately with God and receive His favour. However, when we go against His commands, out of love, God can chastise us. If we don’t honour Him with our lives, He can remove certain gifts and responsibilities from us. As a consequence of Solomon living according to his own desires and not God’s desires, God said He would remove the kingdom from his lineage leaving his son Rehoboam only with Judah (out of love for his grandfather David). God also raised adversaries to rebel against Solomon.

Lessons on backsliding

1) Solomon neglected His time with God – which gave way to various forms of idols forming within him. Our time with God allows us to be purified and refined by the word (John 15:1-4).

2) In that neglect, Solomon sought after what God had warned him against, leading him to sin. We are warned to flee from temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

3) Solomon’s gift could not cushion him nor protect him from the sin that dwelt within and the temptations of the world (1 Kings 11:11).

4) Our disobedience can impact our bloodline, we need to think carefully about the seeds we sow in our lives as this will reap blessing or disaster for our offspring. It was the obedience of King David that saved King Solomon’s son Rehoboam (1 Kings 11:12)

5) 1 Kings 11’s account of Solomon’s love for his sin acts as a warning to all of us. Matthew Henry puts it, “Though we have reason to hope that he repented, and found mercy, yet the Holy Ghost did not expressly record it, but left it doubtful, as a warning to others not to sin. The guilt may be taken away, but not the reproach; that will remain. Thus it must remain uncertain to us till the day of judgment, whether or not Solomon was left to suffer the everlasting displeasure of an offended God.“

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love.

Romans 8:39 (b)

Whilst King Solomon was not in close fellowship with God, it didn’t mean that God’s love for him died. It is important to mention that no one is too far gone for salvation. When we sincerely repent of our sins and turn away from our wicked ways, we can approach God’s throne of grace with boldness (Hebrews 4:16). If as Christians we backslide and then become aware of this, as long as there is breath in our lungs we can still cry out to our Father as He waits for us with a patient and steadfast love (2 Peter 3:8).

God’s Glory In Diversity

Oluwaseyi Sobogun
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God’s Glory In Diversity
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All of us are made in the image of God- male and female He created us (Gen. 1:27). Every one of us is made in this image, our skin colour included. Nevertheless, we are not all to be the same, look the same or talk the same. Each one of us distinctively represents a part of the image of God and that is how God created it. God’s great goal in all of history is to uphold and display the glory of His name for the enjoyment of his people from all nations. There is a solid biblical conviction that ethnic diversity in the church is a beautiful thing, and part of God’s ultimate design for his people.

All one in the body

In 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Paul explains how each body part is important to the whole body, illustrating the symmetry with us as Christians. As unique as our features are to our body, is how each individual is to God’s family (v.27). Every member with a different yet vital role to play belonging to this body. We are all part of the church, the body of Christ (Col. 1:18). God designed it that each member of our body functions conjointly with the other (v.18). As a puzzle that fits precisely together once completed is the semblance of the body of Christ when working together as one.

If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.

1 Corinthians 12:16-17
Puzzle with missing piece

Similarly, the gifts we have been given by the Spirit for use in the body are different for each person. Although the gifts are distinguishable, they collectively work in harmony for the glory of God (1 Cor. 12:11). Regardless of the differences, we all function under one Spirit, being united in our diversity.

There are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all

1 Corinthians 12:4-6

This is the same with our community as Christians. All of our talents, gifts, personalities and characteristics are joined together to share and preach the Gospel of Christ. And all people, creed, nation and body is connected to reflect and be His body, the Church, to the world. We are united under one name, Jesus Christ, with one indwelling Holy Spirit serving one God, in three Persons.

All nations to be saved

The Gospel is for all people, for the Jews first then the Gentiles, everyone not a Jew (Rom. 1:16). Saying that, under Christ, we are all one, neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female (Gal. 3:28). There is no exclusion of salvation for any one race, nation or people, God desires that everyone should be saved (1 Tim. 2:4). For us to then to try to exclude anyone from receiving the Gospel or spreading a message that some groups are not included is incorrect and false. No one is left out. In 1 Corinthians 9:22, Paul says he has become all things to all people in order to share the Gospel. He expresses the need to understand and relate personally to the different personalities and cultures of the people he wishes to share the Gospel with.

A person holding a globe

As Christians, we can never look down on any other group because of our place in Gods family. Although we are now part of the family, we did not always have this position. We are saved by grace alone, through our faith in Christ Jesus alone (Eph. 2:8). Once we were like the ones who did not know God, but now that we do, we should have even more grace for those yet to find Him. Our faith should not drive us to pride in any capacity, if anything, it should lead us towards more humility. As salvation is something we did not earn and did not deserve, however, God chose us, loved us and welcomed us into His family (Eph. 1:4-5). And He can do the same for the person next to us, or in a different country or someone who does not even speak our language. Salvation transcends all boundaries, it is for all mankind.

God Is Not A White Man: And Other Revelations by Chine McDonald (Book Review)

Chinedu Agwu
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God Is Not A White Man: And Other Revelations by Chine McDonald (Book Review)
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“The Kingdom of God is a mosaic…”

What does it mean when God is presented as male? What does it mean when – from our internal assumptions to our shared cultural imaginings – God is presented as white?

These are the urgent questions Chine McDonald asks in a searing look at her experience of being a Black woman in the white-majority space that is the UK church – a church that is being abandoned by Black women no longer able to grin and bear its casual racism, colonialist narratives and lack of urgency on issues of racial justice.

Part memoir, part social and theological commentary, God Is Not a White Man is a must-read for anyone troubled by a culture that insists everyone is equal in God’s sight yet fails to confront white supremacy; a lament about the state of race and faith, and a clarion call for us all to do better.

I felt a personal connection to this book because I could relate to many of the experiences vulnerably shared, in some cases, it was like I was reading my own life story. Being a memoir, the writing was vulnerable and intimate yet also being social/theological commentary gave a very holistic view to faith, race, and the church, which helped to challenge readers. What I think the author did particularly well highlighted a range of issues related to white supremacy, be it in art, politics colonialism, music, or the media. Painting the picture through her words and research and allowing us as engaged readers to connect the dots and come to our own conclusion.

“Imago Dei – the idea that every human, no matter their colour, has a special quality that resembles the divine beauty of God.” She provides countless examples of where black is considered inferior and as a result undermined e.g., in childbirth, sport, education and in interracial relationships. This quote is a reminder that we are all made in the image and likeness of God, that regardless of how Jesus or God are depicted we are His creation, fearfully and wonderfully made.

A section that stood out to me was in the chapter “Africa is not a country” where she wrote the lyrics to the Igbo Christian song “Imela” in a cathedral rather than giving a speech just indicating that some emotions can’t be articulated but are better sung. Not necessarily a critique but a part I lost a bit of interest was extensive chapters on the “other revelations” such as discussions on the treatment of young black children in education, childbirth for black women, Africa is not a country, black death, black sisterhood. Whilst these are profound topics, they have been covered excessively by other authors and for me personally, the most striking part of this whole book is how Chine McDonald craftily and meticulously demonstrated to us that the Kingdom of God is a mosaic, bursting a lot of myths and reaffirming a lot of readers who may have felt inferior within church settings. Contributions from pastors with multicultural or all-white/ all-black congregations would have been an interesting addition to the book content.

Overall, this book was immaculately written, well researched and heartfelt. Chine McDonald through her command of the English language takes us on a journey of faith, self-discovery and personal revelation. I think anyone who has ever doubted their place in the church due to their race should read this book but also pastors of interracial/all-white/all-black churches, however, anyone looking for an insightful read would enjoy this book.

Rating: 4/5

You Don’t Have To Have The Answer To Every Question

Chinedu Agwu
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You Don’t Have To Have The Answer To Every Question
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When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say

Luke 12:11-12

In this life on earth, we can find ourselves asking many questions but also being asked many questions to which we may fail to have answers. Sometimes as Christians, we may think once we “say yes to Jesus” that we suddenly gain premium access to all the answers to life’s mystery. I can confirm that this is not the case. These burning questions can cause fear, doubt, and frustration to stir up within us. However, a big part of being a Christian is living a surrendered life, where we trust God but most importantly, we partner with Him; doing our part and allowing God to be God in our lives.  We aren’t called to understand or agree with everything that we see or experience on this earth, but we are called into intimate fellowship with God and obedience to His commands. So how do we navigate a world full of questions?

We are not All-knowing

Only God is omniscient, He is all-knowing. This is an important fact to remember, which sets God apart from us humble humans! Part of the Great Commission is to “go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation” Mark 16:15; however, sometimes we can be afraid about being asked difficult questions and so avoid evangelism altogether. The very idea of it can seem intimidating because how can you share the gospel, whilst you’re also grappling with questions of your own?

Another instance is where something happens in your life which shakes the foundations of your faith for example a death in the family, natural disasters, losing your job etc. These are not light matters at all and can challenge your personal walk with God; you may wonder why God let these things happen.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight

Proverbs 3:5-6

It is impossible to have all the answers

Let me tell you this, we were never meant to be all-knowing and seeing, this revelation is reassuring, and I’ll tell you why. There is a burden and a responsibility that comes with being all-knowing, that we were not built for. Instead, we are encouraged to cast our cares unto God (1 Peter 5:7). This was God’s intended purpose, for us to lean into Him and depend on Him. Furthermore, another reason that it is good for us not to have all the answers, is that it allows us to rely on Holy Spirit even more. When we lean on our own understanding, it can rob us of our peace.

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

Hebrews 11:1

What do I do with my doubts/questions?

Whilst it is easy to say that we can’t know everything and are not required to have all the answers, it doesn’t stop questions or doubt arising. Yet again in the bible, there are examples where biblical teachers asked questions (John 3:1-15), even when a question was asked and answered incorrectly (Matthew 8:28-30). There are even examples where people wrestled with doubt whilst having faith (John 20:24-29, Mark 9:24). And the beautiful conclusion from all of this is that Jesus met them at their point of faith, He responded in love and guided them. God is not afraid of our questions or doubt, He will not disown you or abandon you, He understands that we are human and we can be fickle! He created us after all. Yet He promises that He is faithful, even when we are faithless (2 Timothy 2:13). Below are some suggestions on how we can process our questions/doubt in a healthy and God honouring way:-

  1. Fasting and Prayer > what is the root of these questions i.e. think about your circumstance/people around you
  2. Find a trusted friend, family member or elder in church who can help unpack your question further and help you navigate your emotions
  3. Write your questions down on paper/in a journal, sometimes it is good to just get it out of your head!
  4. Remind yourself of why you became a Christian, was it to have all your questions answered? Or to follow Christ and glorify Him on earth. Sometimes we also need to know when our questions/doubt is consuming us and derailing us from our faith

We are limited and finite as human beings, we must recognise and accept that. It is not our duty to have all the answers to our own or other people’s questions, we do what we can and give room for God to move. We are His ambassadors on this earth to be a beacon and carry out His mission on earth, we make ourselves available to be used to carry out His good works. Whilst we may not always know what the future holds, we know who holds our future and that my friend, is enough.

How Do I Overcome Peer Pressure As A Christian In The World?

Oluwaseyi Sobogun
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How Do I Overcome Peer Pressure As A Christian In The World?

We are in the world but not of the world. Though we are not of the world that does not exempt us from pressures to act like people of the world. And we are also called to minister to people in the world. So, how does one do that without compromising when we are exposed to all kinds of pressures that go against our belief system. How do we manage that pressure and our reverence to Gods word?

We are in the world

To reach the people of the world, we may have to enter the places we would not usually go. In 1 Corinthians 9:22, Paul says he has become all things to all people so that he might save them. Even so, Paul never allowed himself to be pressured into living or behaving contradictory to what he believed. People will often ask us to do things that go against what we believe and at times, what they ask from us can be appealing, seem easy and appear to be without consequences. However, we must remember that though we are in the world, we are not of the world, just as Jesus is not of the world (Jn. 17:14).

You may be thinking then what is the point? The point is to show there is a better way – the way, the truth, and the life (Jn. 14:6). Jesus Christ, who came to this earth, not of the world but in it, as we are. He displayed exactly how to live and we are blessed to have His example in the Word. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us (Jn. 1:14) so we could see that living in this world is possible. It is not easy, but attainable. Jesus said in this world we will have trouble but to take heart, He has overcome the world (Jn. 16:33). He has overcome. Our hope is a saviour who overcame the pressures of life for our sake.

We are not of the world

The pressures of the world may not appear as obvious and the compromises we make do not often seem damaging. In fact, sometimes the offer is not appealing to us yet the pressure is high – our friends ask us to lie to our parents about our whereabouts, we indulge in something we don’t particularly like to avoid looking different. We choose the path of least resistance to fit in. Whatever it may be, in the world we can face pressure that causes us to compromise or go against our beliefs. And when we do not conform, we risk being ostracised or looked at differently.

Nonetheless, we should remain steadfast in our choices to stand for our faith. When we defy the norms and customs created by the society around us to live according to the word of God, we will most likely experience resistance. People will not understand why we choose to live how we do or make our decisions and they will try to push us to conform but we must not be afraid. We have a choice to make when we are pressured. Will we choose Jesus or the world?

For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel will save it. For What will it profit a man to gain the world but lose his soul

Mark 8:35-36

Living in but not of the world

In the book of Daniel during the exile and captivity of the children of Israel by King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon, we are introduced to Daniel and his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. These young healthy men and many others were taken to a foreign land with foreign customs to serve in the King’s palace. They were to be given the Kings delicacies and wine then trained to serve before him. However, Daniel and his friends had purposed to not defile themselves with the King’s food and wine. Thankfully, in spite of their choice, they received favour from one of the Kings guards who allowed them to request the type of food they would eat. They made a deal to eat only vegetables and drink water for 10 days (Daniel 1:11-21) while many of their peers enjoyed what the King offered.

Later in the book, in another situation, King Nebuchadnezzar creates a statue of himself and commands everyone to bow down before it (Daniel 3:1-7). The young men refuse to obey the King and the punishment for this defiance is to be thrown into a fiery furnace heated seven times hotter than usual (vs.15,19). Coincidentally, the person who heated the furnace perished but the young men did not. They were unsinged and a fourth figure was revealed to be in the furnace with them which the King saw.  

Look, he answered I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire and they are not hurt and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God!

Daniel 3:25

Despite the pressures to go against their belief system, Daniel and his friends were obedient to God over the King of the land who seemed to have their lives in his hands.  And at this moment, the young men, by not being conformed to the world proved what was the good and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2).

Lessons we can learn from this story

  1. Know what you believe before you’re challenged and stand on it even if you are the only one – Daniel 1:8
  2. Learn how to say no to the things that go against what you believe in and don’t be afraid to say no – Daniel 3:18
  3. God will always be with us – Daniel 3:25

Harriet Tubman: A Woman After God’s Voice

Ayo Stephen
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Harriet Tubman: A Woman After God’s Voice
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Here is a brief insight, detailing the life of Araminta Harriet Ross, who later changed her name to Harriet around the time of her marriage. She was an American abolitionist and political activist, also known as the ‘Moses of her people.’ 

Short Biography

  • Born into slavery in the 1820’s in Maryland.
  • She escaped to freedom in 1849.
  • Tubman stole into the woods and, with the help of some members of the Underground Railroad, walked the 90 miles to Philadelphia where slavery was illegal, to freedom.
  • Tubman devoted her life to racial equality and fought for women’s rights.
  • Became a famous conductor of the Underground Railroad.
  • Tubman was the first woman to lead an armed expedition during the Civil War. 
  • She guided the Combahee River Raid, which liberated more than 700 slave in South Carolina. Dorchester County, Maryland Auburn, New York.
  • In 1844, Harriet married a free Black man named John Tubman – after separation, In 1869, Tubman married a Civil War veteran named Nelson Davis. 
  • In 1874 Davis and Tubman adopted a baby girl named Gertie.
  • Tubman quickly became an armed scout and spy for the Union Army.
  • Tubman died of pneumonia on March 10, 1913, surrounded by friends and family, at around the age of 93.
  • She was buried with military honors at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn.
  • The Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn and the Harriet Tubman Museum in Cambridge serve as monuments to her life. 
  • A 1978 movie, A Woman Called Moses, commemorated her life and career, and the 2019 film Harriet chronicled Tubman’s service as a conductor for the Underground Railroad.

Tubman and Faith

I always tole God, I’m gwine [going] to hole stiddy on you ‘an You’ve got to see me through

Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman not only was a woman of faith but a woman of absolute confidence in the voice of God. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett said of her, “I never met any person of any colour who had more confidence in the voice of God.” She was an honourable woman, who refused to go anywhere without first hearing the voice of God. Actively, she showed the fruits of being a follower of Christ, acting selflessly to rescue her fellow people from captivity, notorious for not losing a single person. Regardless of obstacles, she held on to her faith which helped her to become the fearless and brave woman she is known to be.

Tubman grew up during the second Great Awakening, a period of revival in the Christian Church in the United States, where membership flourished. In addition, what solidified her faith was when she came upon a horrific accident that led her to suffer from temporal lobe epilepsy. Upon this accident, she believed that her trances and visions were direct revelations from God and evidence of His involvement in her life. This tragic accident turned out for good as it led to the solidification of her worldview in Christ.

Humility is not antonymous with bravery

Harriet was a perfect display of both humility and bravery. She was humble enough to be selfless, to not neglect her people after she escaped, but to risk her life every single time to save over 700 slaves in North Carolina. Additionally, she was humble enough to not trust alone in her power, but the power of the Almighty and the voice of the Lord. With trusting came a lack of fear and a surplus in bravery. 

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7

There are many things we can learn from Harriet, ranging from not allowing societies standards to diminish or make you shy away from your purpose, or not allowing others to shy you away from the voice of the Lord. But the takeaway I want us to ponder on is trusting in the Lord. When we trust in the Lord, we are empowered. Fear is stripped away because we know that the Author and Founder of the universe is right behind us. Not just for our selfish needs, but for His need, for His glory, to help and save others who are in need of it. Harriet’s work may not have only have saved others physically but spiritually, as her fruits may have acted as evangelism to others. The amalgamation of her spiritual life and her physical work was what resulted in the nickname, ‘Moses of her people.’

Sources:

https://www.biography.com/activist/harriet-tubman

https://theconversation.com/faith-made-harriet-tubman-fearless-as-she-rescued-slaves-127592

https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/people/activists/harriet-tubman.html

Christianity First, Being Black Second

Chude Obuaya
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Christianity First, Being Black Second
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There are very few topics that are discussed in today’s cultural climate that are novel. Whilst the context of these topics such as abortion, spirituality and sexual ethics may differ, the content of such discussions remains largely the same. These topics often raise questions that form new perspectives that may change how a person views the world. For Christians, these questions can strengthen or weaken their faith; especially if the answers to their questions are unanswered or unsatisfactory.

One topic has caused division and identity crises for thousands of years, particularly amongst black Christians. ‘Am I a Christian first or a black person first?’ For some, the Christian faith pits your religion against your race. For others, the Christian faith doesn’t speak to racial issues at all. This topic has led many to leave the faith because they believe that Christianity isn’t for black people. But is this true? Do the scriptures provide answers to the questions that black people have?

The Curse of Ham

Christianity has often been accused of being the “white man’s religion”. These critics point to the events in history that have caused the denigration and the enslavement of black people, particularly at the hands of white “Christians”. In addition to these events, critics point to passages in Scripture that appear to illustrate that black people are cursed. In Genesis 9, after God created a covenant with Noah, he began to work the ground and drank of the wine he produced (Genesis 9:20). He became drunk and fell asleep naked (Genesis 9:21). Ham saw his father’s nakedness and seemingly sought to include his brothers in dishonouring their father (Genesis 9:22). Shem and Japheth instead cover their father’s nakedness (Genesis 9:24). Upon waking from his slumber, Noah realises what Ham has done and curses Ham’s son, Canaan (Genesis 9:25). There are different interpretations as to why Canaan was cursed and not Ham but none support the subjugation of black people.

The curse of Ham states that when Ham sinned, God turned his descendant’s skin black and subjected them to slavery. A careful reading of Genesis 9 is enough to distinguish the lie that the Curse of Ham is a curse upon black people. Here are a few reasons:

1) Ham wasn’t cursed, Canaan was cursed. This is very important to note. A careful reading of Scripture would be able to refute the false claim that Ham was cursed.

2) Being Black is not a curse. Ham had 4 children: Cush, Egypt, Put and Canaan. Cush, Egypt and Put are in what is known today as Africa. Canaan was in the Southwest of Asia. Cush was in what is known as Sudan today and is widely considered as the region in which black people derive.

3) The curse has already been fulfilled. In Genesis 12, God promises Abram the land of Canaan. In the book of Joshua, nearly 500 years later, we see the promise fulfilled. Israel conquered Canaan and entered the land.

4) Don’t believe myths. The curse of Ham finds its origin between the 3rd and 5th centuries and became popularised during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. By holding the view that black people are cursed because of God is to be influenced by white supremacist thought. To interpret the reading of the text in this way is wrong and should be rejected.

Black People are Image Bearers

There is nothing more important than interpreting the Bible rightly. How we read the Bible will determine how we see God and others. Poor interpretation is what led scholars to develop lies that influenced the subjugation and enslavement of millions of black people. As humans we are limited in what we can know; however, we have a duty of getting as close as we can when interpreting what the Scriptures mean. In Paul’s letter to Timothy, Paul exhorts the young pastor to watch his doctrine and his life (1 Timothy 4:16). If we want to be faithful Christians, then whatever we think, feel, or do must be aligned to what the Scriptures teach. The Scriptures do not teach that black people are cursed or are mistakes or that they are subordinate to any other race. Instead, the Scriptures affirm that black people are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:28, 9:6), to show forth the glory of God (Psalm 8:5, 1 Peter 2:9) and rest in the presence of God (1 John 4:13).

Black people are no less valuable than any other ethnic group. To state such a thing is to call God a liar. God made black people purposefully and called them good, along with the rest of creation (Genesis 1). The issue that mankind faces is not the varying levels of melanin, but instead that we have sinned against God (Romans 3:23). But in Christ, we have a Redeemer who lived, died and rose again to save the whole world (John 3:16). Now anyone, no matter their ethnicity, who trusts in Christ as their life, will be saved and will be united to God forever (Titus 3:4-7). Then on that day, we will see the fulfilment of the promise that every nation, tongue, and tribe will be united in glory forever (Revelation 5:9-10).

Black Christians, there are some who want you to pit your Christianity against your ethnicity. You don’t have to, it’s a false choice. God didn’t accidentally make you black. In fact, God says your blackness declares His glory. So, the next time someone asks you “Are you a Christian first or Black first?”, let your response be yes. Your blackness is not in competition with Jesus. Instead, God plans to use your blackness along with all other ethnicities as the canvas to declare His Lordship over all.

6 Christian Books by Black Authors You Must Read

On Mission
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6 Christian Books by Black Authors You Must Read

We all know that representation matters and in celebrating Black History Month- the editorial team has compiled a list of must-read books by Black Christian authors. We hope that these books inform and encourage your faith and spur you further in your pursuit of God.

Black and Reformed by Anthony J Carter

Though from an African American centric view, this book is helpful for the black Christian who is either transitioning from or in white reformed circles. Antony J Carter writes this book with an understanding that the black individual understanding of reformed theology may have been marred by its history. Big figures within reformed circles such as George Whitfield, were supporters and affirmers of grievous sins carried out against black people such as slavery; hence why black reformed individuals may struggle with their with where their loyalties lie. In this book, Carter horns home to the struggling Christian that reformed theology is not encapsulated nor is it defined by what these men did or affirmed by Eurocentricity. He also teaches that there have been prominent black people within church history such as Saint Augustine. Reformed theology does not exist to ostracize black individuals or invalidate their experiences, but it is a display of God of how God uses egregious events for His glory and for our good.

A Young Woman’s Guide to Seeking God by Ayo Awotona

In this honest book, Awotona shares how she has navigated the trials in her faith and dealt with her past to walk into the new life. She speaks openly about her life and shares much-needed encouragement to young women on how to seek God in their daily lives. From waking up at 4 am to setting time in her schedule to meet with God, Awotona clearly explains the practical decisions she has intentionally made to deepen her relationship with God. She further expresses how these decisions have impacted her life in navigating the trials that she has faced. This book is a very encouraging addition to the Christian’s journey and will truly inspire you to be more intentional about seeking God.

Relational Intelligence: The People Skills You Need for the Life of Purpose You Want by Dharius Daniels

This book teaches the importance of defining relationships in our life. Even Jesus Himself was selective over His inner circle yet that didn’t stop Him from loving people. 4 categories are highlighted: Associates, Friends, Assignments and Advisors. In a world where our relationships are quite dynamic/fluid, this book helps us to understand the importance of seasons. In one season a person can serve you in one capacity but may not be able to play that same role in another season. Daniels teaches flexibility and appreciation in the different roles people in our lives life may play. They will not all serve the same purpose and that is okay. Either way, whether people are friends or not, still be kind and loving but don’t be afraid to set healthy boundaries and manage your expectations.

Whole, Competent and Consecrated by Christian Mutyambizi

Conceived from experiences within University campus fellowship and a desire to equip those who are tasked to lead these fellowships- this book is a much-needed guide for fellowship leaders. University Christian fellowships are a beautiful space for young Christians to gather and share life and their love for the Gospel but their leaders are oft unequipped in dealing with their roles and with the problems they may discover within themselves and their attendees. They find themselves plagued with the burden of care but unable to find helpful resources to help them in their leadership journey. In each chapter, Mutyambizi offers portions of wisdom derived from lessons he has learnt as a leader and practical steps for us to follow in the aim of employing healthy, biblical and Christ-like leadership. However, it must be stressed that this book is applicable to many spheres of leadership, not just University fellowships.

What is a Man? by Ira Jackson Jr

“What is a man?” This age-old question is on the minds of many and in a society and a fallen world that so often misses the mark on answering this question, we find broken boys and misled men. This book aims to tackle the epidemic of lost men with missing identities by dismantling myths and rebuilding with the truth. As Jackson rightly puts it, “Most men have never been fathered, some have been fathered but not trained, some have been trained but not in the correct things.” With God and His word as the architects of each principle in this book, Jackson teaches us with a heart that is filled with a zeal for his fellow brethren to come to a true understanding and living confidence of who they are and what God has called them to do.

A Promises of God Series by Kim Cash Tate

If you are a sucker for Christian fiction or have never indulged in any, then this series is for you. Comprised of 5 books titled: Though I Stumble, If I Believe, If You’re with Me, When I am Tempted and As Long As I Cling- this series is a sure oasis to a parched soul grasping to find threads of hope when all seems to be lost. Each book follows the stories of teenage to middle-aged black individuals who are trying to navigate their way through life’s troubles whilst seeking God with every dilemma faced. From insecurities, death, romance, addiction, infidelity, teen pregnancies, church hurt and abuse- Tate sensitively threads each story with a human realism that is oft not realised in many Christian fictional books. Though some parts are predictable, these books will surely shed God’s promises in a greater light and make you wholeheartedly echo the same words as Christ, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible!”

Frederick Douglass – A Man on A Mission

Oluwaseyi Sobogun
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Frederick Douglass – A Man on A Mission

This is a short introduction into the life of Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, who later changed his last name to Douglass, after a famous poet. His journey to faith and what we can learn from his life and legacy.

Short biography

  • Born in the year 1818 into slavery. His mother was of black and Native American ancestry and his father was “almost certainly white”, according to the biographer David Blight.
  • Douglass was seperated from his mother, Harriet Bailey from a young age.
  • He first lived with his maternal grandmother, then at the age of 6 moved to Baltimore to live with a couple, Lucretia and Thomas Auld. Then was sent to work for Thomas’ brother, Hugh.
  • He was taught the alphabet by Sophia, Thomas’ sister-in-law, however Hugh did not want Frederick to learn, as it was forbidden to teach enslaved people to read or write.
  • Nonetheless, Douglass continued to learn to read and write by trading food for books and lessons from white children. He would later teach other slaves to become literate. He believed knowledge was the path to freedom.
  • As a result Thomas sent him to Edward Covey who was known for his harsh treatment of slaves.
  • During his time with Covey, Federick was regualrly whipped and treated poorly. After a while the tensions arose until an altercation between him and Covey. They fought and Douglass won. This he recounts, was a life changing moment.

This battle with Mr. Covey was the turning-point in my career as a slave. It rekindled the few expiring embers of freedom, and revived within me a sense of my own manhood. It recalled the departed self-confidence, and inspired me again with a determination to be free

Frederick Douglass
  • He escaped in 1838 dressed as a sailor with the help of a woman named Anna.
  • Moved to New York and married the woman who helped him escape, Anna, a free-born African American woman and they had 5 children.
  • Douglass was instrumental in the abolishment movement in America and social reform.
  • In his lifetime, he would write three autobiographies and publish multiple writings.
  • He advocated for womens rights, equality and human rights until his death in 1895.

Journey to Faith

The first interaction Frederick had with Christianity was listening to Sophia Alud read the book of Job one night. Douglass was interested in the story of the man, who even after going through such trials and tribulations to the point of losing everything, would still say “ Blessed be the name of the Lord”. He wanted to find out more about this man. Douglass joined a Methodist church where he was introduced to a Christ that was more than the pro-slavery gospel he had heard his whole life. After this, he continued to battle with the reality of his sin and the hope found in the Gospel. He fully converted to Christianity and found faith in Christ as “Redeemer, Friend and Saviour”.

Later as he worked in the field, he would see how other slaves were exposed to the false Christianity preached by the slave owners. He was one of the few slaves who actually received the true gospel from the Bible. He watched how the slave owners would treat the slaves poorly then attend church on Sundays.

We have men-stealers for ministers, women-whippers for missionaries, and cradle-plunderers for church members. The man who wields the blood-clotted cowskin during the week fills the pulpit on Sunday, and claims to be a minister of the meek and lowly Jesus. . . . Here we have religion and robbery the allies of each other—devils dressed in angels’ robes, and hell presenting the semblance of paradise.

Frederick Douglass

He condemned the hypocrisy, exclaiming, “Between the Christianity of this land, and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference.” Frederick was determined to share about the gospel and Christianity of Christ he learnt, not the false one used.

There was a time where he was unsure if God was displeased with the fight he had with Covey but reconciled that the fight against injustice was part of Christian living. A few likened Douglass to Isaiah in his way of preaching the gospel and dispelling the hypocrisy of the slave owners. He was a man on a mission to free the people from the bondage of slavery and the oppressive Christianity of the slaveowners.

Perseverance through suffering

We would agree to say that Frederick Douglass went through tremendous suffering. He was born as a slave with no knowledge or relationship with his mother. His childhood was a mix of being passed between different families and households. Although he was treated well until a point, he was still considered a lower class citizen of his time. He was whipped, beaten and worked to the bone until his escape. Even then, he had to fight for basic human rights and to be seen as an equal amongst his fellow man. During his journey as a Christian, Douglass learnt that the type of oppression he experienced was incompatible with the character and nature of God.

I love the pure, peaceable, and impartial Christianity of Christ

Frederick Douglass

Douglass saw more how the slaveowners were unable to love as Christ loved as they had been too ingrained and hardened with a system of racial oppression through slavery. They could not see their distorted view and how it dishonoured the word of God. Nevertheless, he implored Christians to walk the path of doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8).

And we should too. God sees us, he hears our cries as he heard the children of Israel and as he heard Frederick Douglass as well as the countless other believers.

Sources:

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