Prayer, Evangelism and Worship

Below are expanded theological and lexical notes on each Greek term from Colossians 3:5–14 . These notes draw from major lexicons (BDAG, LSJ, TDNT), Greco-Roman usage, Jewish background, and Paul’s theology. COLOSSIANS 3:5 — “PUT TO DEATH” THE EARTHLY VICES 1. πορνεία — porneía (“sexual immorality”) Lexical Notes Root πορνή means “prostitute”; verb πορνεύω means “to engage in illicit sexual intercourse.” In Greco-Roman culture, often used for prostitution, extramarital sex, or promiscuity in general. In the Septuagint (LXX), closely tied to covenant unfaithfulness , both literal and metaphorical. Theological Notes Paul uses porneía as a broad category for all sexual sin outside God’s covenant design. For Paul, sexual sin uniquely unites the body (which belongs to Christ) with another in a disordered way (1 Cor 6:15–20). Connected with idolatry and pagan religious practices. 2. ἀκαθαρσία — akatharsía (“impurity”) Lexical Notes Literally “uncleannes...

Every believer needs someone to guide them.  At times, they need someone to remind them and yes! to rebuke them.   Rebuking plays an important role in the life of a believer, particularly in maintaining spiritual health and integrity within the Christian community. The Bible makes clear that rebuke (or correction) is necessary for growth, correction of wrongdoing, and restoration. However, it also outlines important guidelines for how to go about it properly, ensuring it is done with love, humility, and the goal of restoration rather than punishment. Here’s an overview of the biblical perspective on rebuke and the guidelines for practicing it: 1. Rebuke with the Goal of Restoration Purpose: The goal of a rebuke should always be restoration, correction, and healing rather than condemnation. Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:1 — “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or ...

Growing in Christ is exciting and challenging.   There are five areas (six here) you need to grow and accelerate on.  And there are four suggested levels you grow from grace to grace.    Bible Read (Joshua 1:8) Understand/Study/Rehearse (Col. 3:16) 66 books Christ's Story Future Things Old Testament Memorization / Remember (Ps. 119:9 & 11) Application (Psalm 1:2-3) Prayer Regular - time with the Lord, accompanied by bible reading and study (Ps. 55:17)  Immediate - You are praying immediately to opportunities (1 Thes. 5:17) Sustained - You are seeking to pray for others (Eph. 6:18) Public (1 Tim. 2:1-2) Worship Committed Sunday (Heb. 10:25) Giving / Generosity (Prov. 3:9) Daily worship in Song / Word / Prayer (Ps. 63:3-4; Rom. 12:2) Assist in Service during Worship (Neh. 10:39; Acts 2:42-47) Service/Ministry Available (Ps. 100:2) Training / Identify (1 Tim. 4:6-8) Opportunity (1 Pet. 4:10) Selfless Service Spontaneous and Sacrificial (john 15:13; Phil. 2...

Hello!  Here are some thoughts on Matthew 3. As you read, take time to write a short journal entry and reflect on what God may be speaking to your heart. Matthew 3 focuses on the baptism of Jesus. The writer draws a clear contrast between Jesus’ genuine obedience and the Pharisees’ lack of sincerity. Imagine if Jesus hadn’t had the courage to step forward in obedience—where would we be? In the same way, each of us is called at some point to take a step of faith and courage. Now, read Matthew 3 and spend a few moments reflecting on it with the questions below.    Matthew 3:2 says, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” – How do you think drawing closer to God could bring peace or renewal to your life right now? Matthew 3:16–17 describes how the Father’s voice declared Jesus as His beloved Son. – What would it mean for you to remember that God sees you, too, as His beloved daughter, even in your struggles? John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by calling pe...

God is moving and he is intending to bring you to your next steps of mission.   Here are  few things to remember:  Oahu Baptist Network Annual Meeting - Fri, Oct 24, 5pm Registration.  Register here.  This event is open to all churches and members.    Events of Outreaches to consider and visit:  Trunk or Treat and Hallelujah Events of Oct 31:  FBC of Wahiawa, Mililani Baptist Church, Waipahu Community Christian Church, Malama Christian Fellowship in Nanakuli Sports Events:  Gani with Waipahu Community Christian Church;  Pastor Page Ayalde at Mililani Fil-Am Baptist Church, Hoopes Ministry every Sunday evening; Living Faith BC have Badminton; Olivet BC has Pickleball Ministries Outreach Events:   Giving To The Community - FBC of Wahiawa on Nov 15 Aloha Harvest - Waipahu Community Christian Church every 2nd and 4th Thursdays Seafarers Ministry - FBC of Wahiawa, Oct 23, 6:00pm at Pier 17, POC is Belinda Catingub.  P...

I pray that Matthew 1 was a good passage to get you seeing how the scripture is alive.  And the timing is perfect since Christmas is just around the corner.   Here are some questions for Matthew 2 after you read it.  Don't forget to journal your answer and then make your observations a prayer before God.   Question on the Flight to Egypt (Protection and Sacrifice): Joseph is warned in a dream to immediately flee to Egypt to protect his family from Herod's toxic and deadly threat (Matthew 2:13–15). This was a sudden, inconvenient, and likely expensive move to a foreign land. How does the urgency of this divine command- to prioritize safety -  affirm you in your choices you have to make for yourself and your family?   ​ Question on the Gifts of the Magi (Unexpected Provision): The Magi arrive from the East and offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). These highly valuable gifts are given before  Mary and Joseph's f...