Diana (211)
Children categories
The Forgotten Sins of Sodom (1)
All have centered on INAPPROPRIATE SEX as the sin of Sodom. In our Spiritual Refection this week we are looking at THE FORGOTTEN SINS OF SODOM.
God delights in Isaiah 58 on an egalitarian nation
Our Prayer is that God will enable us to be his ambassadors here on earth. To CARE FOR THE NEEDY
Z. D. ADU BINEY
View items...
MY MIND MATTER: The Bible and Mental Health by Apostle Diana Adu (0)
In light of MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS UK 2020 join me as we discuss How does the Bible address mental health issues? Join/watch discussion on FBLIVE/SCARLET ADU-CHRISTO.
Apostle Diana Adu
View items...
( 1 Chronicles 4:9-10; Matthew 8:28-31)
"Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother named him Jabez saying, "Because I bore him with pain." 10Now Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, "Oh that You would bless me indeed and enlarge my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from harm that it may not pain me!" And God granted him what he requested."
The above, happens to be the prophecies giving to us by the Lord Almighty, in the beginning of the year 2014, and as events unfolded, I recognized that every undertaking and victory or success gained this year (which has been manifold), was a manifestation of the prophecies spoken according to the Word of the Lord in 1 Chronicles 9:10 which is, “ENLARGE MY TERRITORY”! Praise God!
This is why my dear brother or sister, I want to encourage you that, it doesn't matter what darkness that surrounds you, the light of the Lord, through his word is about to break and tear away the veil of death and usher you into a new season, in the name of Jesus Christ!
Jabez was a man like you and I, but bible says that he PRAYED! he travailed as Elijah the man of God did! He prayed as Jacob the man of God did, and God granted him his request. May God answer you in the day of trouble! May the God of Israel, the God and father of our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ, answer you in this season, this time, this month, this day, this hour, I mean this very minute, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord!
Jabez (Affiction). Easton's Bible Dictionary
(1.) A descendant of Judah, of whom it is recorded that "God granted him that which he requested" (1 Chronicles 4:9, 10).
(2.) A place inhabited by several families of the scribes (1 Chronicles 2:55).
JABEZ ja'-bez (ya`bets, "sorrow" ("height): (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)
(1) Place: A town probably in the territory of Judah, occupied by scribes (1 Chronicles 2:55). For an ingenious reconstruction of the passage see EB, under the word
(2) Person: The head of a family of Judah, noted for his "honorable" character, though "his mother bare him with sorrow" (1 Chronicles 4:9, 10), ya`bets being interpreted as if it stood for ya`tsebh, "he causes pain." The same play upon words recurs in his prayer, "that it be not to my sorrow!" His request was granted, "and the sorrow implied by his ominous name was averted by prayer" (Dummelow, in the place cited.).
Strong's Hebrew 3258. Yabets -- a descendant of Judah, also a place in Judah. Transliteration: Yabets Phonetic Spelling: (yah-bates') Short Definition: Jabez. ... /hebrew/3258.htm - 6k
The Prayer of Jabez, A prosperity gospel?
1 Chronicles 4:9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers: and his mother named him Jabez, saying, "Because I bore him with sorrow."
1 Chronicles 4:10 Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, "Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that it not be to my sorrow!" God granted him that which he requested.
It is sad to think that many seeking to attack men and women of God who they see as “prosperity preachers”, have ceased on the Holy Scriptures and on only the first part of the prayer of Jabez rather than focusing on what the Spirit of God is saying t His Church or even the mind of God on the prayer of Jabez or even seek to know the motive behind this prayer. Every true Believer will immediately not that, this is not a prayer of some wretched poor man seeking to fill his pot-bellied insatiable fleshly desires but a prayer of a holy man who seeks to lay hold on the promises of God, trusting his whole being to Him. The prayer of Jabez was an “emergency prayer that needed an emergency attention”. With the eye of the Spirit, the Prayer of Jabez is like a patient lying at the emergency unit whose only hope hangs on the arrival of the surgeon. It is a life rich with promises that is unable to enjoy to the fullest degree because of a life sucking disease called “SORROW”.
Yet, Jabez has been compared to the "prosperity gospel" and has received the reproaches often addressed toward that doctrine, e.g. that the Jabez prayer suggests that God ought to do what man wants, instead of man following God's will. Some have taken issue with the form of the prayer, citing Jesus' admonition against "vain repetitions" in Matthew 6:7-9. The commercialization of Jabez has also attracted criticism from books such as "The Cult of Jabez... and the falling away of the church in America", a book which claims to expose the un-biblical premise and exegesis of Wilkinson's book. Book Review: (Find book review on google - The Prayer of Jabez, by Bruce Wilkinson Reviewed by Greg Gilbert)
Here is a quote from an unknown author. It says : "Reading the words of the prayer of Jabez (and Wildinson's commentary on it) alongside the covenant prayer presents starkly contrasting visions of the Christian life. One is about the self-fulfillment, the other self-denial; one is about changing God's mind, the other about submitting to God's purpose; one is personal, the other is corporate; one is in harmony with a culture of acquisition and consumption, the other is in conflict with expanding markets and egos". (The Mantra of Jabez : A Christian Parody by Douglas M. Jones (Canon Press, ISBN 1-885767-88-9) was published in 2001.)
But unto us who will dare to believe in this timely prophecy, the Prayer of Jabez is the Prayer of not just a Believer, but of a “faithful servant”, who desire not to slothfully ignore nor foolishly and egoistically waste on God0s resources, but whose sole desire is to “see His kingdom come” by working with the talent giving, knowing that, “a charge to keep I have, a God to glorify, a never ending dying soul that will give account of what he did with the resources God gave him on earth.
Supporting Scriptures:
THE FAITHFUL SERVANT
Matthew 25:45 "Who, then, is the faithful and wise servant? The master will put that person in charge of giving the other servants their food at the right time. 46 That servant will be blessed if his master finds him doing this job when he comes. 47 I can guarantee this truth: He will put that servant in charge of all his property (in heaven and on the whole earth for such belongs of God).
THE WICKED SERVANT
The “Wicked Servant” is one who does not lay hold on the promises of God. Not for him or herself, nor for the benefit of others.
48 That servant, is wicked, for he thinks that it will be a long time before his master comes and 45 though he will not do nothing with the blessings (talent) left for him, he also will go ahead to terrorize those who will dare to believe and lay hold of the promises. These wicked servant may begin to beat the other servants (by criticizing them with their tongue) and or hinder them from reaching out to take what Christ laid in store for them even through witchcraft (eat and drink with the drunks). But to such, bible says in verse 50 of Matthew 25 that, His master will return unexpectedly. 51 Then his master will severely punish him and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where these wicked servant (of God), will cry and be in extreme pain there.
THE PARABLE OF THE WICKED AND FAITHFUL SERVANT
Unless a man is born again, he cannot see (be enlightened or understand the principle behind what we do in) the Kingdom of God for bible says again in Matthew chapter 25:14-19 that, "The kingdom of heaven is like a man going on a trip. He called his servants and entrusted some money to them. He gave one man ten thousand dollars, another four thousand dollars, and another two thousand dollars (which are symbolic of the benefits laid down for the Believer through the blood of Christ). Each was given money based on his ability. Then the man went on his trip. "The one who received ten thousand dollars invested the money at once and doubled his money (laid hold on the promise of God, became fruitful, multiplied and replenished the earth for the glory of God). The one who had four thousand dollars did the same and also doubled his money. But the one who received two thousand dollars went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money. "After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.
The one who received ten thousand dollars according to Scriptures, brought the additional ten thousand. He said, ‘Sir, you gave me ten thousand dollars. I’ve doubled the amount.’ "His master replied, ‘Good job! You’re a good and faithful servant! You proved that you could be trusted with a small amount. I will put you in charge of a large amount. Come and share your master’s happiness.’ "The one who received four thousand dollars came and said, ‘Sir, you gave me four thousand dollars. I’ve doubled the amount.’ "His master replied, ‘Good job! You’re a good and faithful servant! You proved that you could be trusted with a small amount. I will put you in charge of a large amount. Come and share your master’s happiness.’ (Matthew 25:20-23)
BUT "Then the one who received two thousand dollars came and said, ‘Sir, I knew that you are a hard person to please. You harvest where you haven’t planted and gather where you haven’t scattered any seeds. I was afraid. So I hid your two thousand dollars in the ground. Here’s your money!’ "His master responded, ‘You evil and lazy servant! If you knew that I harvest where I haven’t planted and gather where I haven’t scattered, then you should have invested my money with the bankers. When I returned, I would have received my money back with interest. Take the two thousand dollars away from him! Give it to the one who has the ten thousand! To all who have, more will be given, and they will have more than enough. But everything will be taken away from those who don’t have much. Throw this USELESS SERVANT outside into the darkness. People will cry and be in extreme pain there.’ Matthew 25:26-30
"When the Son of Man comes in his glory and all his angels are with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. The people of every nation will be gathered in front of him. He will separate them as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right but the goats on his left. "Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, my Father has blessed you! Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me into your home. I needed clothes, and you gave me something to wear. I was sick, and you took care of me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ (Matthew 25:30-37)
"Then the people who have God’s approval will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you or see you thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you as a stranger and take you into our homes or see you in need of clothes and give you something to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 37-39)
"The king will answer them, ‘I can guarantee this truth: Whatever you did for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did for me.’ "Then the king will say to those on his left, ‘Get away from me! God has cursed you! Go into everlasting fire that was prepared for the devil and his angels! I was hungry, and you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me nothing to drink. I was a stranger, and you didn’t take me into your homes. I needed clothes, and you didn’t give me anything to wear. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t take care of me.’ "They, too, will ask, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or as a stranger or in need of clothes or sick or in prison and didn’t help you?’ "He will answer them, ‘I can guarantee this truth: Whatever you failed to do for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you failed to do for me.’ "These people will go away into eternal punishment, but those with God’s approval will go into eternal life." (40-46)
In Matthew 6:33 bible (God’s Word Version) says, “ But first, be concerned about his (God’s) kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you.” The Bible in Basic English says, “But let your first care be for his kingdom and his righteousness; and all these other things will be given to you in addition.”
Some of the “these other things” that bible talks about according to Matthew 6 verse 25 include? " (So I tell you to stop worrying about) what you will eat, drink, or wear. That is food, clothing and shelter for indeed, there are some Ministers of God, that are not seeking first the kingdom of God but seek their kingdom first. God delights and is magnified by the prosperity of His saints. It is a manifestation of his presence amongst his people. But all “these things comes when a man’s ways pleases God. All “these things” are added by God because the Believer “seeks first “ the Kingdom of God!
The Lord in assuring his people says in Matthew 6 verse 25 that, “ life is more than food and the body more than clothes”! illustrating to us how he cares for even the birds and flowers who was not made in the image and likeness of God but which carries “the breath of God”, saying 26 "Look at the birds. They don’t plant, harvest, or gather the harvest into barns. Yet, your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they?27 "Can any of you add a single hour to your life by worrying? 28 "And why worry about clothes? Notice how the flowers grow in the field. They never work or spin yarn for clothes. 29 But I say that not even Solomon in all his majesty was dressed like one of these flowers. 30 That’s the way God clothes the grass in the field. Today it’s alive, and tomorrow it’s thrown into an incinerator. So how much more will he clothe you people who have so little faith?
31 "Don’t ever worry and say, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ 32 Everyone is concerned about these things, and your heavenly Father certainly knows you need all of them. 33 But first, be concerned about his kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you. 34 "So don’t ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
And so, now that the Lord has granted us understanding on the principles of Prosperity, Matthew 7 verse 1 - 5 follows with a strong admonishment saying to those who have judged the prayer of Jabez: "Stop judging so that you will not be judged. Otherwise, you will be judged by the same standard you use to judge others. The standards you use for others will be applied to you. So why do you see the piece of sawdust in another believer’s eye and not notice the wooden beam in your own eye? How can you say to another believer, ‘Let me take the piece of sawdust out of your eye,’ when you have a beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! First remove the beam from your own eye. Then you will see clearly to remove the piece of sawdust from another believer’s eye.”
To the Believer who will dare to Believe on the promise of God and pray as Jabez prayed, bible says in Matthew chapter 7 verse 6 - 8 "Don’t give what is holy to dogs or throw your pearls to pigs (i.e. don’t allow demonic infested philosophies scare you away from praying the prayer of Jabez. Otherwise, they will trample them and then tear you to pieces. "Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive. The one who searches will find, and for the one who knocks, the door will be opened. “ Because just as when your child asks you for bread, and you will not give him a stone? Or when your child asks for a fish, and would you give him a snake? So also is it with God. Compare the face that, even though humans are evil, yet they know how to give good gifts to your children, much more will our Father in heaven not give good things to those who ask him? (Matthew 7: 9-11)
The Principle of living a godly and prosperous life and in the protection of what God gives us, is to "Always do for other people everything you want them to do for you and "Beware of false prophets who come to you disguised as sheep, but truely are vicious wolves in their hearts. You will know them by what they produce. "People don’t pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles, do they? In the same way every good tree produces good fruit, but a rotten tree produces bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a rotten tree cannot produce good fruit. Any tree that fails to produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into a fire. So you will know them by what they produce. "Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ (who confesses to be a follower of Christ and who preaches his words) will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the person who does what my Father in heaven wants. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name? Didn’t we force out demons and do many miracles by the power and authority of your name?’ Then Jesus will tell them publicly, ‘I’ve never known you. Get away from me, you evil people.’ 12, 15-24
It is my prayer therefore, that as you set yourself aside to listen in to or watch this timely prophecies you will be like those who hears the words of Christ and obeys it. Such according to bible, is like a wise person who builds a house on rock. When (evil or testing) Rains are poured, and (evil or testing) floods come or when (evil or testing) winds blew and beat against that house (i.e, your life), you shall not collapse, because your foundation was on rock – you built your life on the WORD OF GOD and believed in this timely prophey! (Matthew 26:25)
Those on the other hand who may feel that this prophecy is just a prosperity message and choose to watch or listen in but will care less are compared to those who hears what Christ says but don’t obey it. Such according to scriptures will be like a foolish person who built a house on sand. Rain poured, and floods came. Winds blew and struck that house. It collapsed, and the result was a total disaster.!" I pray this shall not be your portion in Jesus’ mighty name!
Be not anxious for your life (μη μεριμνατε τη φυχη υμων). This is as good a translation as the Authorized Version was poor; "Take no thought for your life." The old English word "thought" meant anxiety or worry as Shakespeare says: "The native hue of resolution Is sicklied o’er with the pale cast of thought." Vincent quotes Bacon (Henry VII): "Harris, an alderman of London, was put in trouble and died with thought and anguish." But words change with time and now this passage is actually quoted (Lightfoot) "as an objection to the moral teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, on the ground that it encouraged, nay, commanded, a reckless neglect of the future." We have narrowed the word to mere planning without any notion of anxiety which is in the Greek word. The verb μεριμναω is fromμερις, μεριζω, because care or anxiety distracts and divides. It occurs in Christ’s rebuke to Martha for her excessive solicitude about something to eat #Lu 10:41. The notion of proper care and forethought appears in #1Co 7:32 12:25 Php 2:20. It is here the present imperative with the negative, a command not to have the habit of petulant worry about food and clothing, a source of anxiety to many housewives, a word for women especially as the command not to worship mammon may be called a word for men. The command can mean that they must stop such worry if already indulging in it. In verse 31, Jesus repeats the prohibition with the ingressive aorist subjunctive: "Do not become anxious," "Do not grow anxious." Here the direct question with the deliberative subjunctive occurs with each verb (φαγωμεν, πιωμεν, περιβαλωμεθα). This deliberative subjunctive of the direct question is retained in the indirect question employed in #Mt 6:25. A different verb for clothingoccurs, both in the indirect middle (περιβαλωμεθα, fling round ourselves in #Mt 6:31, ενδυσησθε, put on yourselves in#Mt 6:25). Notes on Matthew 6:33
For your life (τη φυχη). "Here φυχη stands for the life principlecommon to man and beast, which is embodied in the σωμα: the former needs food, the latter clothing" (McNeile). φυχη inthe Synoptic Gospels occurs in three senses (McNeile): eitherthe life principle in the body as here and which man may kill#Mr 3:4 or the seat of the thoughts and emotions on a par with καρδια and διανοια #Mt 22:37 and πνευμα #Lu 1:46 Joh 12:27 13:21 or something higher that makes up the real self. #Mt 10:28 Mt 16:26 16:25 Lu 9:25 φυχη appears in two sensesparadoxical use, saving life and losing it.
“Be anxious for nothing” also means “do not be sorrowful”: This is what Jesus thought us in Matthew 6:33 and this is what Jabez whose name means trouble, pain sorrow (also meaning, depression, anxiety, misfortune, disappointments, etc. means) prayed to God for. He was laying hold of the promise of God. He was walking in kingdom principles.
It is remarkable that Jabez should be introduced as it is in Scriptures without description, or patronymic, as if a well-known personage. We can only suppose that he was known to those for whom Chronicles was written, either by tradition, or by writings which have perished. (Barnes)
Jabez — was, as many think, the son of Coz, or Kenaz, and is here eulogized for his sincere and fervent piety, as well, perhaps, as for some public and patriotic works which he performed. The Jewish writers affirm that he was an eminent doctor in the law, whose reputation drew so many scribes around him that a town was called by his name (#1Ch 2:55); and to the piety of his character this passage bears ample testimony. The memory of the critical circumstances which marked his birth was perpetuated in his name (compare #Ge 35:15); and yet, in the development of his high talents or distinguished worth in later life, his mother must have found a satisfaction and delight that amply compensated for all her early trials.
In #1Ch 4:10 Jabez alludes to his name, “sorrowful” (margin): “Grant that the grief implied in my name may not come upon me!”
Jabez was the Head of the families of scribes who lived at the city belonging to the tribe of Judah and named after him. These families were the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, the Sucathites. These are the Kenites who came of Hammath, the father of the house of Rechab. (1 Chronicles 2:55).
The School of Scribes
Jabez, the Adam Clarke Commentary points out, was also called “Othniel, the son of Kenaz. And he was called Jabez, because in his council he instituted a school of 31 disciples; they were called Tirathim, because in their hymns their voice was like trumpets; and Shimaathim, because in hearing they lifted up their faces, i.e., in prayer; and Suchathim, because they were overshadowed by the Spirit of prophecy. These Salmaei were the children of Zipporah, who were numbered among the Levites who came from the stock of Moses, the master of Israel, whose righteousness profited them more than chariots and horses” (Targum, quoted by Adam Clarke Commentary on I Chron.2:55).
The book of First Chronicles says, “And Jabez was more honorable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, O that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested” (I Chron.4:9-10).
The Septuagint has this passage, “And Igabes was more glorious than his brethren . . . And Igabes invoked the God of Israel, saying, If in blessing thou wilt bless me, and enlarge my borders, and thy hand be with me, and wilt give me understanding not to depress me: and God brought about all that he requested.”
The Syriac has it – “And one of these was dear to his father and to his mother; and he called his name ainei, MY EYE. And he said to him, In blessing may the Lord bless thee, and enlarge thy boundary; and may his hand be with thee; and may he preserve thee from evil, that it may not rule over thee; and may he give to thee whatsoever thou shalt request of him!”
The Arabic version declares– “And this one (Hastahar or Harum) was beloved of his father and his mother: and they called his name aina, MY EYE; and they said unto him, May the Lord bless thee, and multiply thy people, and may his hand be present with thee, because thou wast born in Beth-lehem!”
The Chaldee has the passage this way – “And Jabets also, he is Othniel, honourable and skilled in the law beyond his brethren, whose mother called his name Jabets, because she had borne him with sorrow. And Jabets prayed to the God of Israel, saying, O that in blessing thou wouldest bless me with children, and enlarge my borders with disciples; and that thy hand may be with me in business, that thou mayest make me like to my companions, that evil concupiscence may the less grieve me! And the Lord granted that which he prayed for.”
Jabez according to The Geneva and the Adams Clarke Commentary is called Othniel, # Jud 1:13 (Geneva). If this be so, then his prayer which is here recorded, like Jacob’s, was made in the form of a vow (#Ge 28:20). This seems to have been uttered when he was entering on an important or critical service, for the successful execution of which he placed confidence neither on his own nor his people’s prowess, but looked anxiously for the aid and blessing of God. The enterprise still according to Adams Clarke was in all probability the expulsion of the Canaanites from the territory he occupied; and as this was a war of extermination, which God Himself had commanded.
If this be some, then Jabez made no strange prayer that that which God had commanded them to and to which they were accustomed to, both he, his wife and his children. (see Judges 1:13)
Jabez or Othniel was the first judge of Israel and brother of Caleb, (Jud 3:9) “ And when the children of Israel made prayer to the Lord, he gave them a saviour, Othniel, the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.”
In Joshua chapter 15:17 he was an able military commander and warrior who like Caleb his brother, would not cow down, but lay hold on taking the territories of canaan. – “And Othniel, the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s brother, took it: so he gave him his daughter Achsah for his wife.”
Jabez even got a woman to marry by taking territories for his father-in-law! And with concerns to the wife of Jabez, Bible says in Judges 1 verse 18 that, “ Now when she came to him (Jabez), he put into her mind the idea of requesting a field from her father: and she got down from her ass; and Caleb said to her, What is it? 19 And she said, Give me a blessing; because you have put me in dry south-land, now give me springs of water.” So he gave her the higher spring and the lower spring."
Halleluia! This is why God put that small piece of scripture, in there in the bible. It was to teach every Believer, to “come boldly before God’s throne of grace and receive mercy in time of need”!: As Ezra chronicles in the 1 Chronicles chapter 4 verse 10 that Jabez prayed to God “to truly give him a blessing, and make wider the limits of my land, so did he teach his wife to ask his father to “give her a blessing”, knowing that whatsoever we ask of him he will do it!
God answered Jabez request. Caleb answered his daughters request. Ask for it is God who is judge. Promotion comes from him It is he who shall decide when you give you what you need, when you need it!
Territorial Spirits
Jabez’s blessing could be the more reasonably asked and expected in preserving them from all the evils to which the undertaking might expose him. Paul asked the church to pray for him for though God had opened a great door of opportunity for him, many are the adversaries. Bible says in Matthew 8:28 that,” When he (Jesus) arrived in the territory of the Gadarenes on the other side of the Sea of Galilee, two men met him. They were possessed by demons and had come out of the tombs. No one could travel along that road because the men were so dangerous."
These grave demons or evil spirits invoked out of the tombs were also the cause to the “storms” that had previously threatened to capsize the boat in which Christ and his disciples were travelling in or using to crossover to the region where these spirits dwelt.
“ ¶ Jesus’ disciples went with him as he left in a boat. Suddenly, a severe storm came across the sea. The waves were covering the boat. Yet, Jesus was sleeping. So they woke him up, saying, "Lord! Save us! We’re going to die!" Jesus said to them, "Why do you cowards have so little faith?" Then he got up, gave an order to the wind and the sea, and the sea became very calm.The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the wind and the sea obey him!" Matthew 8:23-27
But after Christ had dealt with those demons by overcoming them in the realms of the spirit, the physical manifestation which followed was: “ When he arrived in the territory of the Gadarenes on the other side of the Sea of Galilee, legion of evil spirits that had fought him with storms came out from their holes (the tombs), to also physically impede him as they have been doing with all that they are able to overcome spiritually. But verse 29 -31of Matthew 28 says that when they saw Christ, “ They shouted, "Why are you bothering us now, Son of God? Did you come here to torture us before it is time?" A large herd of pigs was feeding in the distance. The demons begged Jesus, "If you’re going to force us out, send us into that herd of pigs."
This was the secret to the prayer of Jabez. He knew that without the Captain of Israel’s host who is the captain of his army, he could in no wise and under no circumstance overcome the demon inhabiting the regions in Canaan which God had given to them and instead of thinking and seeing himself as a mere cockroach and seeing the demonic spirits as giants, he believed in the words of Caleb and Joshua who said “we are more able”!! and sought for the guidance and power of the God of Israel.
Therefore, In these words, "that it may not grieve me," and which might be more literally rendered, "that I may have no more sorrow," there is an allusion to the meaning of his name, Jabez, signifying "grief"; and the import of this petition is, Let me not experience the grief which my name implies, and which my sins may well produce, or let not the enemy find a door way through my name to inflict pain or defeat on me.
Though Jabez was a man of fame, honour, wealth and possessions, who was even named after a city - even a place at which the families of the scribes resided who belonged to the families of the Kenites. (1 Chronicles 2:55) and that his name occurs in the genealogies of Judah, (1 Chronicles 4:9,10) in a passage of remarkable detail inserted in a genealogy again connected with Bethlehem. We believe that, Jabez, A descendant of Judah, named a high distinction among his brethren because of his prevalence in prayer, (1 Chronicles 4:9-10). He fully laid on the advice of Christ and watched over his soul until sorrow would not hinder him from faithfully serving God with his “talent”.
Yet many are they who have misconstrued or mistranslated the good prayer of Jabez which was a heavenly, kingdom, divine counsel from Christ our Lord himself, saying that “be anxious for nothing means, do not take any thought for your life – don’t have dreams, aspirations and don’t even worry if you have no house, no cloth, no job, nothing. But “Be not anxious for your life” (μη μεριμνατε τη φυχη υμων) according to the Barnes commentary, is as good a translation as the Authorized Version was poor; "Take no thought for your life." The old English word "thought" meant anxiety or worry as Shakespeare says: "The native hue of resolution Is sicklied o’er with the pale cast of thought." Vincent quotes Bacon (Henry VII): "Harris, an alderman of London, was put in trouble and died with thought and anguish." But words change with time and now this passage is actually quoted (Lightfoot) "as an objection to the moral teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, on the ground that it encouraged, nay, commanded, a reckless neglect of the future." We have narrowed the word to mere planning without any notion of anxiety which is in the Greek word. The verb μεριμναω is fromμερις, μεριζω, because care or anxiety distracts and divides. It occurs in Christ’s rebuke to Martha for her excessive solicitude about something to eat #Lu 10:41. The notion of proper care and forethought appears in #1Co 7:32 12:25 Php 2:20. It is here the present imperative with the negative, a command not to have the habit of petulant worry about food and clothing, a source of anxiety to many housewives, a word for women especially as the command not to worship mammon may be called a word for men. The command can mean that they must stop such worry if already indulging in it. In verse 31, Jesus repeats the prohibition with the ingressive aorist subjunctive: "Do not become anxious," "Do not grow anxious." Here the direct question with the deliberative subjunctive occurs with each verb (φαγωμεν, πιωμεν, περιβαλωμεθα). This deliberative subjunctive of the direct question is retained in the indirect question employed in #Mt 6:25. A different verb for clothingoccurs, both in the indirect middle (περιβαλωμεθα, fling round ourselves in #Mt 6:31, ενδυσησθε, put on yourselves in#Mt 6:25).
For your life (τη φυχη). "Here φυχη stands for the life principlecommon to man and beast, which is embodied in the σωμα: the former needs food, the latter clothing" (McNeile). φυχη in the Synoptic Gospels occurs in three senses (McNeile): eitherthe life principle in the body as here and which man may kill#Mr 3:4 or the seat of the thoughts and emotions on a par with καρδια and διανοια #Mt 22:37 and πνευμα #Lu 1:46 Joh 12:27 13:21 or something higher that makes up the real self. #Mt 10:28 Mt 16:26 16:25 Lu 9:25 φυχη appears in two sensesparadoxical use, saving life and losing it.
Jabez the wise man prayed to God. He would not allow his adversaries and religious leaders to bury him in the grave of sorrow before his time. He would not allow their intimidation to slowing produce fears, anxiety, sleeplessness, that will cut short his life. How many are the lives that have wasted away through sorrow. Bible says sorrow does not only break the heart but it causes innumerable diseases and has been the cause of countless deaths! Learn more on the hidden pearls in the prayer of Jabez and bodly pray with us this month by telling God not only to ENLARGE YOUR TERRITORY, but to,
1.BLESS YOU (truly give you a blessing),
2.And ENLARGE YOUR COAST(territory, region, or make wider the limits of my land)
3.And that His hand (POWER and PRESENCE) might be with you
4.And that God will KEEP YOU FROM EVIL (S07489) - giving pain, unhappiness, misery, wickedness, mischief, trouble, sore, affliction, illness, adversity, harm, noisome, grievous, bad, disagreeable, malignant, unpleasant, sadness, displeasing , calamity, adversity, wrong, distress, injury, whatever is hurtful, bad, unkind (vicious in disposition), in general, of persons, of thoughts, or whatever is worst (comparison)
5.And that SORROW and all that comes with it may not grieve (06087 בצע ‘atsab aw-tsab’ AV - displeased, hurt or be vexed by it but more also, I ask to not WORSHIP the demon of sorrow by being overcome by it through my wresting with it. May sorrow not hurt, vex, torture or cause me pain and may I NOT BE FASHIONNED, MODELLED, MADE, FORMED OR STRETCHED INTO ITS SHAPE (TWOT) meaning to “worship”!
“And God granted him that which he requested.” MAY GOD GRANT YOUR RESQUEST NOW IN THE MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS! Watch the video, send the link to friends and family members and enjoy the sermon not forgetting to push through the promises of God!
Apostolic ProphetessDr. Diana Adu Biney
9-05-2014
www.dianaadu.com
find other sermons by Prophetess Diana on YOUTUBE
sermon may be reproduced/republished ONLY when source is cited
Tagged under
Host: THE DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS
Date: 18-20TH APRIL , 2014
Venue: AC HOTEL, BRESCIA (Behind Freccias Rosa)
Speakers: APOSTLE GEORGE HOOPER, MRS EMELIA NANA KWATENG
Clergy for Consecration: APOSTLE GEORGE HOOPER, APOSTLE NANA BINEY, BISHOP PETER O'MONDAY, BISHOP ISAACE AINOO, PROHETESSDR.DIANA ADU BINEY
Worship/Praise: JULIANA ESSEL, LOVETH ABONGHAE, GIOVANNA BINEY
If your heart is to rise up as part of hte mighty company of women God is establishing in this hour, do not miss this amasing event. Leading women are gathering to receive fresh oil to emerge as mightier than ever before and as it was in the days of old, so shall it be in our time when the Spirit of Deboarah and Jael is awakened in the church of Christ.
Come and receive divine impartation from the mighty army of Apostles and Prophets sent out in this season to ground you! You are called to your next level and to your appointed throne! This is the time to ARISE and celebrate WOMEN ON THE FRONTLINES
"The servant of God must not stife".... if you have ever read this quotation, then it would not be suprising to you to know that God laid down principles guarding the scared office of the those he commissions, calls, and consecrates.
This is sometimes called ethics. The mandate of the DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS is to allow herself to be used by God in commissioning the five fold and all other offices to fulfill Ephesians 4:11, so that they in turn will fulfill the divine mandate in bringing the church to the stature of Christ. If this be so, then we will begin with Christ's earthly moral standard of living.
Scriptures is not silent on this and had laid down principles to guide the minister and the office. This is why in some sectors, it is said that, it is not the office that sanctifies the minister, but the minister that sanctifies the office.
Ethic is considered as the moral principles, regulations and rules that help guide somebody’s behaviour, performance and actions in life and profession.
TV Segment for the month of April
The number fourteen and the Symbolism of the Institution of the Washing of the Feet by Christ.
Jesus did something which was unexpected as he ate with his disciples (including women and children according to Jewish tradition), at the last feast. Instead of the ritual of washing of hands, He washed the disciples' feet. Passover is celebrated on the 14th of Nisan. [Exodus 12:6; Leviticus 23:5]. According to Philo of Alexandria,the first century AD Jewish theologian, (Jewish feasts in Special Laws II and in comments on the Feast of Passover in # 145-149-), "At the Passover, which the Hebrews call pascha [fouth festival after the new moon..], the whole people celebrated on the 14TH day of the month, which consists of two periods of seven, in order that nothing which is accounted
worthy of honor may be separated from the number Seven. It says that this number (14), IS THE BEGINNING OF BRILLANCY AND DIGNITY TO EVERYTHING.
Jews were commanded (mitzvah) washed their hands daily in the morning and before eating, symbolizing the removal of impurity and the renewal of spiritual integrity. But instead of their hands, Jesus washed the disciples' feet, and says:
'At the moment you do not know what I am doing, but later you will understand.'If I do not wash you, you
can have no share (be like me) with me.' Jesus then after, makes this profound declaration, "YOU ARE CLEAN! [katharoi]."
14is a number of BRILLANCY and DIGNITY. Jesus by he power of the baptism of the feet, restores his disciples to their divine BRILLANCY and dignity. I pray heaven that any uncleanness that has hindered your brilliancy and dignity in this year which is number 14, be washed away by the WORD, even as we prepare for the PASSOVER, so you may share in the inheritance laid for you, by the blood of Christ.
You don't want to miss the Broadcast, showing every Sunday in the month of April, (a month of new beginnings) on TV!
Tagged under
The Anointing is not your property. The Anointing cannot be bought, hired, rented, posted. The Anointing is the manifestation of God's power here on earth through the material, the flesh. It is the tangible presence of the holy Ghost!
The Anointing is God presence upon man to enable him or her to execute divine mandate here of ne earth.
The anointing is what makes you a caretaker of God's divine nature.
The anointing is what turns an ordinary person to an extraordinary person- "another man".
The Anointing is God and his presence can depart from you if you continue to be disloyal to the mandate.
The anointing is not your property so you cannot decide to give its o whom you prefer a d you cannot take it away from those you don't like.
Here is a short summary of a man who was uniquely anointed but who lost his anointing because he did not know God.
King Saul Hunted David for 4 years( 1018 - 1014 BC). And kept David and his family in hiding at Ziglag, for four years! David was 22-30 years old during this 8 year period according to 1 Samuel 21-31 and 2 Samuel 1, these years also happened to be Saul's last 8 years on earth.(1018-1010 BC).
Some of the agonizing prayers made by David in those times, include:
“After whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog, a single flea? … just as one hunts a partridge in the mountains.” (1 Samuel 26:20; 24:14).
"They hated me without a cause"
"My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (David said when Saul surrounded him).
"Trust in shadow of God's wings" (spoken by both David's grandparents, Boaz and Ruth: Ruth 2:12; 3:9)
These are the times that Saul mockingly said to David when he had him surrounded, "Commit yourself to the LORD; let Him deliver you; let Him rescue you, because He delights in you" .
David on the Run from Saul (1 Samuel 21-311018-1014 BC)
Saul, the psychotic king (upon whom the spirit of God had departed nada n evil spirit had started to torment), drove himself insane not only because David had been anointed king over Israel but also because he saw the manifestation of the anointing, even before David sat not hep physics throne as kind of Israel.
Saul hunts David -The setting:
Young David had spent 7 years in Saul's palace and will now spend 4 years being hunted by Saul, then another 4 years at Ziglag until Saul dies on Mt. Gilboa. These 8 years can be broken down into two sets of four years: The first four years Saul hunts David until he enters Gath the second time and then lives at Ziklag.
b. The Ark of covenant is at Kiriath-jearim.
c. After 76 years, the Mosaic Tent of Meeting is moved from Nob to Gibeah
In 1018 BC, Saul killed the entire priesthood at Nob in a psychotic fit of rage against them giving David help.
The Tabernacle remained at Gibeah until it was extinct 59 years later in 959 BC when Solomon finishes the Temple. After Saul kills the priests and moves the Tabernacle to Gibeah, it functioned with out a high priest until after Saul died. Abiather,
the only survivor of Saul's rage at Nob, travelled with David until Saul died. Samuel was likely the overseer of the tabernacle during this period.
The man who on his zeal, when had moved the Tabernacle to Gibeon, killed ( punished) all the sorcerers and mediums and murdered the non-Hebrew Gibeonites (2Samuel 21) who had an oath of protection from Joshua, now sought the help of witches and magicians.
Saul became a hater of righteousness and a friend of evil doers. He lost the anointing, became demon possessed and killed anyone that dared not just rob each. Friend but help of David. He killed God's holy priests
and none officiated and after killing all that he could kill, he turned his sword upon himself so he would not die in they hands of the uncircumcised.
Saul’s royal palace was Gibeah of Benjamin, also called Gibeah of Saul. This is where altars at Ramah (Samuel's), Bethel (Jacob’s
Gen 35:1), Gilgal and at the two Levitical cities of Gibeon and Geba were built.
This first Royal city and altar built by Saul, Gibeah is also called the "second Sodom" because in 1290 BC (Judges 19:22), the men of the city (from the tribe of Benjamin, they ride of Saul, committed acts of sodomy and rape that closely parallels the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Gen 19. This is where the
Levite priest had his Bethlehemite wife raped and murdered and he cut in pieces and sent through Israel. The result was a call to war and the tribe of Benjamin was almost
wiped out, save 600 men. Saul was a descendant of those men and chose Gibeah, his home town, as his Royal city.
Echoing the woman being cut up 250 years earlier from this same spot, Saul cuts up oxen in pieces and sends them throughout Israel as a call to war to defend the men at
Jabesh-Gilead who were under attack of Moab.
In 1052 BC, Samuel was 52 years old when he anointed Saul at age 30 year old as king. 1 Sam 13:1
d. In 1040 BC, David is born when Jonathan is about 27 years old and Saul is 42.
e. In 1025 BC, Saul had been king for 27 years but had failed to obey God twice and is told another will replace him. (David)
f. 1025- 1018 BC: David’s time in the Saul’s palace at Gibeah of Benjamin: 7 years
g. 1018-1014 BC: David’s time on the run: 4 years.
h. In 1008 Samuel dies an old man, likely 90 years old. 1 Samuel 25:1.
i. In 1010 BC Saul and Jonathan die.
i. Saul was 72 years old when he died
ii. Jonathan was 57 years old when he died.
iii. David was 30 when he began to reign as king in Hebron between 1010-1003 BC
j. In 1003 BC David captures Jerusalem and begins his reign at age 37.
k. In 999 BC, Solomon is born.
4. This 4 year period was a time of persecution for David and laid the foundation of many antitypes echoed by Christ and
Christians in general. The collection below is a partial list, but these are the ones where the title of the Psalm actually tells us the context of when and where it was written. For a complete list of these see the end just before the conclusion and then a general summary in the conclusion.
The Psalms written by David when Saul Hunted him between 1018-1010 BC, include
Psalm 7 where The LORD is implored to Defend the Psalmist against the Wicked. A Shiggaion of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush, a Benjamite.
Protection from Saul: Cush the
Benjaminite refers to Saul the son of Kish
Psalm 59 Prayer for Deliverance from Enemies. For the choir director; set to Al-tashheth. A Mikhtam of David, when Saul sent men and they watched the house in order to kill him.
1 Sam 19 when Michal let David escape from the house out the window.
Psalm 56 Supplication for Deliverance and Grateful trust in God. For the choir director; according to Jonath elem rehokim. A Mikhtam of David, when the Philistines seized him in Gath. David had to resort to faking insanity to escape Achish, king of Gath after being captured (56&57 are considered twinpsalms)
Psalm 34 The LORD, a Provider and Deliverer. A Psalm of David when he feigned madness before Abimelech [Achish], who drove him away and he departed. (Psalm 34 title)
David at a point hast or Ben fake madness to Achish, the pagan king.
Psalm 52 Futility of Boastful Wickedness. For the choir director. A Maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him,“David has come to the house of Ahimelech.”
Doeg the Edomite kills the 85 priests of Nob, to please Saul.
Psalm 63 The Thirsting Soul Satisfied in God. A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness ofJudah.
1 Samuel 22:5 when Gad the prophet ordered David back to Judah to rely upon
God.
Psalm 54 Prayer for Defense against Enemies. For the choir director; on stringed instruments. A Maskil of David, when the Ziphites came and said to Saul, “Is not David hiding himself among us?”
Ziphites betray David 3 times
Psalm 18 The LORD Praised for Giving Deliverance. For the choir director. A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD, who spoke to the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.
When Saul surrounded David but was recalled to fight the Philistines:
“Saul went
on one side of the mountain, and David
and his men on the other side of the
mountain; and David was hurrying to get
away from Saul, for Saul and his men were
surrounding David and his men to seize
them. But a messenger came to Saul,
saying, “Hurry and come, for the
Philistines have made a raid on the land.”
So Saul returned from pursuing David and
went to meet the Philistines; therefore they
called that place the Rock of Escape.” (1
Samuel 23:26-28)
Psalm 57 Prayer for Rescue from Persecutors. For the choir director; set to Al-tashheth. A Mikhtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave.
(Psalm 57 title) When David was in the cave at En Gedi and cut the robe of Saul. (56&57 are considered twin psalms)
Psalm 142 “Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer.” (Psalm 142:title)
When David was in the cave at En Gedi and
cut the robe of Saul.
Summary overview of 1 Samuel chapters 21-31:
1. David flees from Saul’s Palace at Gibeah to Samuel in Ramah.
2. David flees to Nob where he eats the bread of Presence.
3. David seeks refuge with Achish, king of Gath, but fakes insanity.
4. David flees to Adullam & 400 disaffected men join him.
5. David seeks refuge in Kir-Hareseth in Moab for his parents but
Gad, the prophet, orders David back home to Judah.
6. David returns from Moab to Hereth forest , starts writing Psalms.
7. Saul kills 85 priests at Nob, Abiathar flees to David later at Keilah.
8. Saul kills the gentile Gibeonites (2 Sam 21) & banishes mediums in preparation for Tabernacle being moved from Nob
to Gibeon.
9. David liberates Keilah from the Philistines but the city betrays David to Saul and he flees.
10. David lives in the hill country of the wilderness of Ziph in the“Horesh” .......
WHAT WILL YOU DO WITG THE ANOINTING?
Tagged under
Preparation towards the Call and the Consecration
"So Elisha left him and went back. He took his
yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned
the plowing equipment to cook the meat and
gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set
out to follow Elijah and became his servant."
A I was seeking the face of God for instructions with concerns to our LEADERSHIP Worshop coming on Thursay, 27th March, 2013, my spirit was quickened on the scripture which says, Many are called, but few are CHOSEN. Jesus said, whoever follows me ( becomes My disciple) will have to give up all his own possessions (mentioned in Matthew chapter 19:29 as houses, brethren, sisters, father, mother, wife, children, lands).
This is telling us that, there are many people who have been called but are not chosen. The chosen are they that go through the above named sacrifices. The chosen are the ones who hold the plough and don't look back.
In our present age, many do not allow themselves to be chosen because of the cares of this world. Because of a house problem, a sister problem, a mother or father problem, a spouse problem and all kinds of tentacles thrown in their path to hinder them from FOLLOWING. Jesus says "anyone of you who does not detach himself from all that belongs to him cannot be a disciple of mine."
In Matthew 4:19, when Jesus said to Peter, Follow me and I will make you fishers of men," he answered by an immediate act of sacrificial
obedience Likewise, bible says with concerns to the other disciples, that,, "they straightway forsook their nets and followed Him." (cf. Matt. 4:19) The other Apostles also followed with a sacrificial obedience, unlike the
rich young ruler.
Maybe like Peter, you are asking, "If we forsake all, and follow the call, What shall we have? (Matthew 19:27)
To such an one, Jesus' answer to you is in Matthew 19:28, " Verily I
say unto you that ye who have followed me, in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit on the
throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
And in verse 29, He says, " And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit EVERLASTING LIFE."
Therefore, my dear brother or sister who has been called but resisting to be chosen, remember that, the rich young ruler bypassed the greatest investment deal he could ever make: 1.) he exchanged the hundreds of houses, lands and new extended spiritual family for the few houses, lands and family members he already had; 2.) he exchanged everlasting life
with the Lord for the brief 70 or 80 years he may live on this earth;
and 3.) he exchanged his desire to please God to hold onto his
bankrupt soul.
Evidently, all believers (who chose to obey and follow Christ will share a part in rule and judgment during Christ's Kingdom on earth. cf. Dan. 7:18-27; 1 Cor. 6:1-4; Rev.3:21; 2:26; 20:4, compare with Jesus' parable in Matt. 25:14-30. But a special rule will be given to the twelve Apostles (or the CHOSEN) over the twelve tribes of Israel. cf. Luke 22:28-30.
6. The Gospel of Mark adds, that with persecutions (cf. Mark 10:30), as
Jesus wanted the Apostles to keep in mind that suffering would be
characteristic of this age, even through rewards also come.
“Anyone who lays his hands to
plow (who is called into ministry or who starts ministry and gazes behind him (whose mind keeps resting on his or her problems be it rent, house, spouse, marital, economical, low self esteem or other weights), is NOT fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
The Call of Elisha, Jehu and Hazael
Bible tells us in the book of 1 kings chapter 19 from verse 15 that, "The LORD said to the prophet Elijah, “...Go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, 1. anoint HAZAEL as KING over Aram. In verse16, God tells his prophet, also 2. anoint JEHU son of Nimshi as KING over Israel, and 3. anoint ELISHA son of Shaphat from
Abel Meholah to succeed you as PROPHET.
In verse 17, God then gives further direction with concerns to the specific ministry of each of the three people. That is to say, the PURPOSE for their ANOINTING. Why God is sending the Prophet Elijah to ANOINT THEM.
The purpose of the oil that was to be poured first on 1. Jehu was to empower him with divine ability "to PUT TO DEATH any who escape the sword of Hazael, and the purpose of the oil that was to be poured on 2. Elisha, was to enable him with divine (supernatural) ability to PUT TO DEATH any who escape the sword of Jehu.”
ELISHA IS CHOSEN
Bible says in1 Kings 19:19- that,
"So Elijah went (after God had spoken to him), from there and FOUND Elisha son of Shaphat. HE WAS PLOWING (he was mnistering) with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him
and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then (LEFT, FORSOOK, DETACHED HIMSELF from), his oxen and ran after (followed) Elijah. “Let me (return to my house and) kiss my father and mother goodbye,” he said, “and then I will come with you.” But on hearing this, the prophet of God replies: “Go back,” “What have I done to you"? that is to say", you are not fit to follow me"... Elijah recognizes that he is faced with a choice and makes up his mind an what to do
ELISHA FORSAKE by Buring his OXEN and IMPLEMENTS
21 So Elisha left him and went back. (And instead of kissing his mother and father), he took his yoke of
oxen and slaughtered them (either in sacrifice to God force Grace and favour he had been bestowed, or to destroy what would stand between him and his new mandate . Secondly, He burned THE PLOWING EQUIPMENT to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate (This was the fiction of the Priest or the Prophet). Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant."
All the above named three men executed their office but ELISHA'S ministry was distinct.
Many are Called but a few allow themselves to be CHOSEN. But to all those who would follow the process of being CHOSEN as ELISHA did, Jesus is saying to you, "and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property--along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life."
Many will be Called and yet few will be CHOSEN. In our study, we have learnt not only of the Called and the Chosen, but also, of the FUNCTION OF THE PROPHET AND PROPHETESS. This is my CALL and my OFFICE. And as confirmed also amongst the Prophets who helped lay the foundation of the early church, this is how I operate. Partner with the DIANA ADU MINISTRIES and partake of our next leadership conference to take place in Brescia on the 20th of April, 2014
OBEDIENCE, The mark of the TRUE Minister.
Every MINISTER can choose to be A SLAVE to GOD, a SLAVE to men, or a SLAVE to satan, because who you obey is who you worship (serve). "Don’t you know that you are slaves of anyone you obey? You can be slaves of sin (Satan or men) and die, or you can be obedient slaves of God and be acceptable to him." To this, the early church when faced with threats from the then religious leaders to stop serving Jesus, says:
But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority(beings).
As a MINISTER OF GOD, you owe your first allegiance to God and then, to men because, "when you submit yourselves to someone by obeding what they say as opposed to what God says, you become their slaves and they become your Lord. The person you obey (follow) is your master and you are slaves to the one you obey]. Romans 6:16
You can now STOP faltering between two opinions and make a better decision. Follow the call of God, forsake your fears and allow him to make you what he wants you to be!
Write to me at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
or visit our ministry website, that is: www.dianaadu.com. There, you will also find ministry resources that will be of great help to your ministry and in equipping your people.
God Richly bless you
REV. DIANA ADU (PROPHETESS)
for the DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS
All rights reserved
The content may be used ONLY as reference in Christian studies.
Tagged under
Preparation towards the Call and the Consecration
"So Elisha left him and went back. He took his
yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned
the plowing equipment to cook the meat and
gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set
out to follow Elijah and became his servant."
A I was seeking the face of God for instructions with concerns to our LEADERSHIP Worshop coming on Thursay, 27th March, 2013, my spirit was quickened on the scripture which says, Many are called, but few are CHOSEN. Jesus said, whoever follows me ( becomes My disciple) will have to give up all his own possessions (mentioned in Matthew chapter 19:29 as houses, brethren, sisters, father, mother, wife, children, lands).
This is telling us that, there are many people who have been called but are not chosen. The chosen are they that go through the above named sacrifices. The chosen are the ones who hold the plough and don't look back.
In our present age, many do not allow themselves to be chosen because of the cares of this world. Because of a house problem, a sister problem, a mother or father problem, a spouse problem and all kinds of tentacles thrown in their path to hinder them from FOLLOWING. Jesus says "anyone of you who does not detach himself from all that belongs to him cannot be a disciple of mine."
In Matthew 4:19, when Jesus said to Peter, Follow me and I will make you fishers of men," he answered by an immediate act of sacrificial
obedience Likewise, bible says with concerns to the other disciples, that,, "they straightway forsook their nets and followed Him." (cf. Matt. 4:19) The other Apostles also followed with a sacrificial obedience, unlike the
rich young ruler.
Maybe like Peter, you are asking, "If we forsake all, and follow the call, What shall we have? (Matthew 19:27)
To such an one, Jesus' answer to you is in Matthew 19:28, " Verily I
say unto you that ye who have followed me, in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit on the
throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
And in verse 29, He says, " And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit EVERLASTING LIFE."
Therefore, my dear brother or sister who has been called but resisting to be chosen, remember that, the rich young ruler bypassed the greatest investment deal he could ever make: 1.) he exchanged the hundreds of houses, lands and new extended spiritual family for the few houses, lands and family members he already had; 2.) he exchanged everlasting life
with the Lord for the brief 70 or 80 years he may live on this earth;
and 3.) he exchanged his desire to please God to hold onto his
bankrupt soul.
Evidently, all believers (who chose to obey and follow Christ will share a part in rule and judgment during Christ's Kingdom on earth. cf. Dan. 7:18-27; 1 Cor. 6:1-4; Rev.3:21; 2:26; 20:4, compare with Jesus' parable in Matt. 25:14-30. But a special rule will be given to the twelve Apostles (or the CHOSEN) over the twelve tribes of Israel. cf. Luke 22:28-30.
6. The Gospel of Mark adds, that with persecutions (cf. Mark 10:30), as
Jesus wanted the Apostles to keep in mind that suffering would be
characteristic of this age, even through rewards also come.
“Anyone who lays his hands to
plow (who is called into ministry or who starts ministry and gazes behind him (whose mind keeps resting on his or her problems be it rent, house, spouse, marital, economical, low self esteem or other weights), is NOT fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
The Call of Elisha, Jehu and Hazael
Bible tells us in the book of 1 kings chapter 19 from verse 15 that, "The LORD said to the prophet Elijah, “...Go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, 1. anoint HAZAEL as KING over Aram. In verse16, God tells his prophet, also 2. anoint JEHU son of Nimshi as KING over Israel, and 3. anoint ELISHA son of Shaphat from
Abel Meholah to succeed you as PROPHET.
In verse 17, God then gives further direction with concerns to the specific ministry of each of the three people. That is to say, the PURPOSE for their ANOINTING. Why God is sending the Prophet Elijah to ANOINT THEM.
The purpose of the oil that was to be poured first on 1. Jehu was to empower him with divine ability "to PUT TO DEATH any who escape the sword of Hazael, and the purpose of the oil that was to be poured on 2. Elisha, was to enable him with divine (supernatural) ability to PUT TO DEATH any who escape the sword of Jehu.”
ELISHA IS CHOSEN
Bible says in1 Kings 19:19- that,
"So Elijah went (after God had spoken to him), from there and FOUND Elisha son of Shaphat. HE WAS PLOWING (he was mnistering) with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him
and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then (LEFT, FORSOOK, DETACHED HIMSELF from), his oxen and ran after (followed) Elijah. “Let me (return to my house and) kiss my father and mother goodbye,” he said, “and then I will come with you.” But on hearing this, the prophet of God replies: “Go back,” “What have I done to you"? that is to say", you are not fit to follow me"... Elijah recognizes that he is faced with a choice and makes up his mind an what to do
ELISHA FORSAKE by Buring his OXEN and IMPLEMENTS
21 So Elisha left him and went back. (And instead of kissing his mother and father), he took his yoke of
oxen and slaughtered them (either in sacrifice to God force Grace and favour he had been bestowed, or to destroy what would stand between him and his new mandate . Secondly, He burned THE PLOWING EQUIPMENT to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate (This was the fiction of the Priest or the Prophet). Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant."
All the above named three men executed their office but ELISHA'S ministry was distinct.
Many are Called but a few allow themselves to be CHOSEN. But to all those who would follow the process of being CHOSEN as ELISHA did, Jesus is saying to you, "and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property--along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life."
Many will be Called and yet few will be CHOSEN. In our study, we have learnt not only of the Called and the Chosen, but also, of the FUNCTION OF THE PROPHET AND PROPHETESS. This is my CALL and my OFFICE. And as confirmed also amongst the Prophets who helped lay the foundation of the early church, this is how I operate. Partner with the DIANA ADU MINISTRIES and partake of our next leadership conference to take place in Brescia on the 20th of April, 2014
OBEDIENCE, The mark of the TRUE Minister.
Every MINISTER can choose to be A SLAVE to GOD, a SLAVE to men, or a SLAVE to satan, because who you obey is who you worship (serve). "Don’t you know that you are slaves of anyone you obey? You can be slaves of sin (Satan or men) and die, or you can be obedient slaves of God and be acceptable to him." To this, the early church when faced with threats from the then religious leaders to stop serving Jesus, says:
But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority(beings).
As a MINISTER OF GOD, you owe your first allegiance to God and then, to men because, "when you submit yourselves to someone by obeding what they say as opposed to what God says, you become their slaves and they become your Lord. The person you obey (follow) is your master and you are slaves to the one you obey]. Romans 6:16
You can now STOP faltering between two opinions and make a better decision. Follow the call of God, forsake your fears and allow him to make you what he wants you to be!
Write to me at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
or visit our ministry website, that is: www.dianaadu.com. There, you will also find ministry resources that will be of great help to your ministry and in equipping your people.
God Richly bless you
REV. DIANA ADU (PROPHETESS)
for the DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS
All rights reserved
The content may be used ONLY as reference in Christian studies.
Tagged under
Redefining SECRETS TO GREATNESS
The secret of GREATNESS is in the sacred mistery of SERVANTHOOD. Matthew 20:20-28; Act 8:9:24; Mk 10:43; Philippians 2:3
MARK 10
"Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be turned over to the high priests and scribes, and they will sentence Him to death, and will turn Him over to the heathen, and they will make sport of Him, and spit on Him, and flog Him, and kill Him, but three days after He will rise again." 33-34
35 And Zebedee’s two sons, James and John, came up to Him and said, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask." 36 He asked then, "What do you want me to do for you?"
37 They answered Him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your splendor."
38 Jesus said to them, "You do not realize what you are asking for. Can you drink the cup that I am drinking, or endure the baptism of agony that I am to endure?"
39 They answered Him, "We can." Jesus said to them, "Yes, the cup that I am drinking you will have to drink, and the baptism of agony, that I am enduring you will have to endure,
40 but seats at my right and at my left are not mine to give, but they will be given to those for whom they have been prepared."
41 When the other ten heard of it, they were at first very indignant at James and John.
42 Then Jesus called them to Him, and said to them, "You know that those who are supposed to rule the heathen lord it over them, and their great men rule as despots over them; 43 but this is not to be the case among you. Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to hold the first positions among you must be everybody’s slave.45 For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life a ransom price to set many free."
46 ¶ Then they came to Jericho. And as He was leaving Jericho, with His disciples and a great crowd followed.....
Do nothing from rivalry, but in humility, count others significant more than yourself. " Philippians 2:3
While reading this daily scripture on my App. I bowed my head immediately, in asking for forgiveness. For it is in the blood of humans to access greatness as being lord over others. But this scriptures demonstrates the divinity surrounds the call of every man or woman of God.
Church history has not given us no better example. Popes poisoning other popes so as to take the throne. Absalom demanding his father's exile so as to be king. Bishops taking other ministers who they see as a threat to the fetish priest, Saul demanding the death of David!!! And mothers whose sincere desire to see their children make it, manipulating them till who they want to be first or who they heard God said would be first, comes first. Otherss if not checked by God, would go to the extend of bribing heaven or Satan to push others aside so their children may be first!!! And the list goes on, and on and on... from bible episodes, men struggle in church to be first. Humans struggle in politics to be first. Humans struggle their families, even killing their own blood JUST TO BE FIRST!
THE ROAD TO GREATNESS
For this purpose, Christ did not miss words in admonishing his disciples, when this toxic virus raised its head among them in demanding who was the greatest amongst them. He said HE THAT DESIRES TO BE GREAT IS THE ONE THAT DESIRES TO BE THE SERVANT.... Thus greatness among your peers and greatness in ministry is not measured by your long years in service. That makes u a veteran. Greatness in ministry is not when you take a microphone and shout that you are the first. That makes you dangerous, a threat and a bully.
According to Scriptures, greatness is when your are humble enough to esteem those new ministers, more than yourself.
Yet God allowed me to see that, even in our time, we all need to refresh our minds again in redefining Christian principles with regards to the SECRET TO GREATNESS! For God does not see as man sees and many times those whom he calls and chooses are those who are esteemed low amongst their people.
In our prophesy for this month, God is saying that all of us are BORN TO BE GREAT! He also in his divine wisdom is telling us through his Word that, there are two roads to greatness. One is through the philosopy of men and the other is through his philosopy.
Please follow this short teaching and watch the TV teachings on the prophecy and then get ready to by the new book I am working on titled BORN TO BE GREAT!!
GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU!!
MATTHEW 20
¶ And as Jesus was about to go up to Jerusalem, He took the twelve disciples aside, and said to them while on the road, "Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be turned over to the high priests and the scribes, and they will sentence Him to death, and turn Him over to the heathen to mock and flog and crucify, but on the third day He will rise again." 17-19
¶ Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came up to Him with her sons, kneeling to Him and asking a favor of Him. And He asked her; "What do you want?" She answered Him, "Give orders that these two sons of mine may sit one at your right and one at your left in your kingdom." But Jesus answered, "You do not realize what you are asking for. Can you drink the cup that I am about to drink?" They answered, "Yes, we can." 20-22
23 He said to them, "You will drink the cup that I am to drink, but seats at my right and at my left are not mine to give, but they will be given to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father."
24 When the other ten heard of it, they were indignant at the two brothers.
25 But Jesus called them to Him and said, "You know that the rulers of the heathen lord it over them, and their great men rule as despots over them. 26 It is not to be so among you, but whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to hold first position among you must be your slave, 28 just as the Son of Man has come, not to be served but to serve, and to give His life a ransom price to set many free."
QUALIFICATIONS FOR GREAT MEN IN THE BIBLE
The next person who clearly elaborates what KINGDOM GREATNESS is, is The Apostle Paul... He takes glory not in big cars and congregation, but of his sufferings and scars as marks of his greatness!
(The Apostolic Office)
In vindicating the marks of his Apostleship, St. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 11, that, if he must boast (as if he is out of his mind and since many are boasting like people unbelievers, then he will boast about the things that shows his WEAKNESS and SUFFERINGS. As compared to those who claimed to be super Apostles,
1. He worked harder,
2. Being prisons more frequently
3. Been flogged more generally
4. Been exposed to death again and again
5. For five times he received 40 lashes minus one
6. Three times he was beaten with rods
7. One time he was stoned
8. Three times he was shipwrecked
9. He spent one night and a day in open sea
10. He has been constantly on the move
11. He has been in danger from rivers, bandits, and his own country men. He has Benn in danger of Gentiles, in danger in the city, in the country, at sea and in danger of false brethren
12. He laboured and toiled and often went without food, water, and sleep, shelter and clothing (which are the basic necessities for man).
13. Besides all these, he faced the daily pressures of his concernvfor all the churches under him.
14. He felt went and tempted to sin (burned inwardly).
15. Cities were barricaded for his arrest (Damascus), but he always slipped out of their hands
16. He was multiple gifted and grace with abundantly revelation, which according to him was put in check by a thorn in the flesh ( whom he calls a messenger of satan). And though he pleaded to be set free from this pain, God told him that His grace was sufficient for him and His power was made perfect through the very weakness.
For this purpose, St. Paul boast of the marks of Apostleship as being, sufferings, insults,, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties. He doesn't brag about his long years in service, (since he reckons himself as one born untimely and the least). He does not brag about his big congregation and properties. Paul according to 2 Corinthians 12:12, finally add to the mark of his apostles as SIGNS, WONDERS AND MIRAClES. 2 CORINTHIANS 11
SIGNS OF AN APOSTLE
The Hardships of Paul - The emblem of his call. 2 Corinthians 11:22-25
Part one
We're going to begin looking at 2 Corinthians chapter 11 verse 22 and following. You can open to that section in your Bible while I make a few introductory remarks. If I were to title this portion of Scripture, I might title it "Humble Boasting...Humble Boasting." Frankly, boasting and humility are generally mutually exclusive, incompatible if not, in fact, opposites. But the apostle Paul does a marvelous job here of humble boasting. He boasts defending his own superiority to the other teachers and apostles, false apostles who had come to Corinth. And while boasting of his superiority, maintains his humility at the same time. This is a great challenge and Paul feels the tension of being forced to defend himself, being forced really to show himself superior to the false apostles and at the same time not compromise his humility. Doing such a carefully balancing act is not easy and for him was undesirable, even to attempt it, but he finally is forced into it.
In doing so he gives us what turns out to be one of the most wonderful and insightful sections of Scripture anywhere in his writings and, I think, maybe the richest example of humility anywhere in the New Testament, apart from our Lord Himself. Here is the real test of a man's humility, can he be humble when he's boasting about what is true of himself? He is forced here to show his superiority to the false apostles and does so yet never compromises his humility. It is a remarkable, remarkable portion of Scripture.
I don't need to remind you, but for those of you who haven't been here, just briefly to say this. Second Corinthians was written to the church of Corinth by Paul in defense of his ministry because some false apostles had come in preaching a different gospel, a different Jesus. They were agents of Satan. They were disguised as ministers of light. They were disguised as servants of righteousness. They were the agents of hell and false doctrine. They brought in damning lies. The Corinthians were seduced by them, began to believe them,give them the pulpit, let them preach and teach. Paul confronts that, deals with it the best he can with a personal letter, even a visit. And when he starts to see things turn back toward him, he writes this letter to affirm permanently in their minds his credibility. Remember, the false apostles in order to gain a hearing had to discredit Paul because the people loved Paul. Paul had founded their church, spent nearly two years with them and he had been their teacher. He was the servant of God and the messenger of the truth. And so in order for them to teach their lies, they had to destroy Paul and so they assassinated his character every way they could. It was successful in the minds of some people and they had turned from Paul to the false apostles forcing Paul, finally, to this self-defense. Now he has been throughout 2 Corinthians saying a lot of things about the nature of his ministry, the character of his ministry, the character of his life. He's been answering a lot of the accusations but finally here in 2 Corinthians 11:22 he actually compares himself to the false apostles. Heretofore he hasn't done that, but here he does it in no uncertain terms. And the purpose of this section, and actually begins in verse 22 and runs all the way down to verse 13 of chapter 12, so it's a long section, the purpose of this section is to show Paul as superior, he is better than the false apostles.
That's a hard thing for him to do because he's more comfortable talking about himself as the chief of sinners, does not like to talk about his superiority, even though it is true. He won't say more than is true, he made that very clear back in chapter 10 verses 13 to 15. He won't speak beyond what he ought to say. He won't overstate the case. He will speak truthfully but even speaking truthfully about what is true about him, about his real and genuine superiority is a hard thing for him to swallow. But the whole necessary defense must be done.
Now he's had a hard time getting started. Starting in chapter 10 he could have just launched into the comparison, but in verse 12 he said, "We're not bold to do this." We're not bold or eager or anxious to burst into this comparison. And so starting in chapter 10 verse 12 clear through chapter 11 verse 21 he's been giving a series of disclaimers, in effect saying...this is foolish...this is fleshly...this is forced and I don't want to do it. And he's just been saying that
over and over with all those disclaimers. He wants us to understand how distasteful it is for these false teachers to set an agenda for him that forces him to have to brag about himself. He doesn't like that. He doesn't have a model in Jesus doing that and he doesn't like to have to follow a model set by false teachers. But he has no choice. It is foolish. It is fleshly. It is forced. But it is necessary. It's necessary to preserve the gospel. It's necessary to protect the church. It's necessary to honor the Lord. He must show that he is superior to the false apostles so that they will be rejected and with the rejection of those men, the rejection of their lying message. It is distasteful. It is necessary.
Finally...finally we come to verse 22 and he is ready to present his apostolic redentials. And as I said, in doing so he gives us a powerful example of humility because he shows us humility in the midst of necessary boasting.
Now the section that we're going to look at really is a fascinating one. We're just going to get in to verses 22, 23, 24 and 25 briefly this morning. There's a distinction between verse 22 and the rest of the passage and I'll show you what it is. In verse 22, would you notice three times he says "so am I...so am I...so am I." However, in verse 23 he says, "I more so in far more, far more," there's a very great distinction there. In verse 22 he shows where he's equal with the false apostles. In verse 23 and following he shows where he is superior to them. So he starts out by talking about where they're equal...so am I...so am I...so am I he says in verse 22. Are they Hebrews? Are they Israelites?
Are they descendants of Abraham? I am too. There is equality there and a necessary equality because apostles needed to be racially in that heritage. But then in verse 23 he launches into his superiority, "I more so.." and from then on down to the end of verse 13 in chapter 12 he shows his superiority, but he starts with his equality. Verse 22 then puts him on an equal footing with them in terms of heritage. Look at it.
"Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I." It may well have been, by the way, that the false apostles were questioning this. It may well have been that they had spread some lies about Paul not having the right racial credentials. In fact, they may have said that since he was born in Tarsus he really didn't fit. All...all the original twelve apostles were Jews, therefore they were all Israelites, they were descendants from Jacob. They were all children of Abraham because, of course, Jacob came from Abraham. So they were all descendants of Abraham. They were all Israelites. And they were all Hebrews. That is to say they were of the nationality of the Hebrews and they spoke the language which is called Hebrew. So they would be classified then as Jews and Palestinian Jews as opposed to Greek Jews that spoke Greek or something else. They were all true
Jews, Palestinian Jews. And with the exception of Judas, by the way, they were all Galileans. They all came from the northern part of Palestine known as Galilee which is the more rural part, being north of the great metropolis of Jerusalem.
So all the apostles were Jews. All of them were Palestinian Jews and with the exception of Judas who was certainly disqualified as an apostle, all of them were Galilean Jews. Any one then claiming to be an apostle would have to show that he was a Jew and that he was a true Jew, a Palestinian Jew. The false apostles may have been accusing Paul of not fitting the qualifications of being an apostle because he was born in Tarsus which is a Gentile city and therefore indicating he did not belong. Tarsus, by the way, was in Cilicia which is along the northern part of the Mediterranean where modern Turkey exists today, it's outside Palestine and therefore they may have been accusing him of being an intruder into the apostolic realm since he didn't have a birthright credential.
Well Paul wants to answer that. It is right, true apostles are ethnically pure, Aramaic and Hebrew-speaking Jews of Palestine rather than Greek-speaking Jews of the dispersion. But Paul is going to answer that question and here's how he does it. "Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I." It's really three ways of saying the same thing, although we could break it up a little bit.
Hebrews sort of refers to the Jewish people ethnically and linguistically. They are the Hebrew people who basically are associated with the Hebrew language. The root of that is probably from Eber. In the genealogy of Genesis 11 verses 15 to 17 as you go through the genealogy of the Jewish people, there is a person there by the name of Eber of whom Abraham is a descendant. Eber probably is the one who contributed Ebrew which was the name given first to Abraham in Genesis 14:13. So it probably goes back to the fact that he was a descendant from Eber.
Foreigners used it of the Jews. They called them Hebrews, descendants of
Eber, and the Jews also used it of themselves. You'll find that in Genesis 40,and Genesis 43. Both the Jews used it and others used it of them as well. They accepted it as a moniker that stuck.
Paul born in Tarsus, however, was still a Hebrew in every sense. In Philippians 3:5 he calls himself "a Hebrew of Hebrews." ........ to be continued in part 2
25-02-2012
2. THE SCARS WE BEAR ARE NOT A SHAME BUT A MARK OF OUR HIGH CALLING. IT IS THE SEAL OF OUR FAITH, AND OUR PRICELESS POSSESSION. Therefore, I am not ashamed for my scars for they are born from a good cause. For what warrior is she that has no scars and what victor is she that bears no emblem of her battles. This is the seal of my calling and I will gladly bear it for the sake of the cross.
Probably because he didn't physically see Christ and maybe came from Taurus, the other disciples of Christ treated him as though he did not fit. But Saint Paul vindicated his Apostolship by the evidence of the SCARS he bore in his body for the sake of the gospel. For Christ himself was vindicated as the Author of Life by bearing the SCARS of our sins in his body.
John 20:25 GNT
So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!"Thomas said to them, "Unless I see the scars of the nails in his hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in his side, I will not believe."
Galatians 6:17 (AMP)
From now on let no person trouble me [by making it necessary for me to vindicate my apostolic authority and the divine truth of my Gospel], for I bear on my body the [brand] marks of the Lord Jesus [the wounds, scars, and other outward evidence of persecutions—these testify to His ownership of me]!
SIMONY - A DECEPTIVE ROAD TO GREATNESS
SIMONY is now taking on a vicious dimension through astral projecting to steal a desired spiritual gift. Simony is making of profit out deliberately attempting to buy or sell an office of the Church or a sacrament.The word "simony" does indeed come from the name Simon, but not from the name Simon Peter.It comes from the name of Simon the magician, who had heard the preaching of Philip in Samaria and had accepted baptism. In Acts 8:9-24 we find the account of this Simon, who offered money to Peter in exchange for the power to lay hands on people to confer the Holy Spirit. From Peter came an immediate and sharp rebuke. Ever since, the notion of buying an office of the Church or of buying grace has been referred to as simony.
The Encyclopædi Britannica defines simony as buying or selling of something spiritual or closely connected with the spiritual More widely, it is any contract of this kind forbidden by divine or ecclesiastical law.The name is taken from Simon Magus (Acts 8:18), who endeavoured to buy from the Apostles the power of conferring the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Simony, in the form of buying holy orders, or church offices, was virtually unknown in the first three centuries of the Christian church, but it became familiar when the church had positions of wealth and influence to bestow. The first legislation on the point was the second canon of the Council of Chalcedon (451). From that time prohibitions and penalties were reiterated against buying or selling promotions to the episcopate, priesthood, and diaconate. Later, the offense of simony was extended to include all traffic in benefices and all pecuniary transactions on
masses (apart from the authorized offering), blessed oils, and other
consecrated objects.
From an occasional scandal, simony became widespread in Europe in the 9th and 10th centuries. Pope Gregory VII (1073–85) rigorously attacked the problem, and the practice again became occasional rather than normal. After the 16th century, it gradually disappeared in its most flagrant forms with the disendowment and secularization of church property.
Catholic Encyclopedia- Simony is usually defined "a deliberate intention of buying or selling for a temporal price such things as are spiritual of annexed unto spirituals". While this definition only speaks of purchase and sale, any exchange of spiritual for temporal things is simoniacal. Nor is the giving of the temporal as the price of the spiritual required for the existence of simony; according to a proposition condemned by Innocent XI (Denzinger-Bannwart, no.1195) it suffices that the determining motive of the action of one party be the obtaining of compensation from the other.
The various temporal advantages which may be offered for a spiritual favour are, after Gregory the Great, usually divided in three classes. These are: (1) the munus a manu
(material advantage), which comprises money, all movable and immovable property, and all rights appreciable in pecuniary value; (2) the munus a lingua(oral advantage) which includes oral commendation, public expressions of approval, moral support in high places; (3) the munus ab obsequio (homage) which consists in subserviency, the rendering of undue services,
etc.
The spiritual object includes whatever is conducive to the eternal welfare of the soul, i.e. all supernatural things: sanctifying grace, the sacraments, sacramentals, etc.While according to the natural and Divine laws the term simony is applicable only to the exchange of supernatural
treasures for temporal advantages, its meaning has been further extended through ecclesiastical legislation. In order to preclude all danger of simony the Church has forbidden certain dealings which did not fall under Divine prohibition. It is thus unlawful to exchange ecclesiastical benefices by private authority, to accept any payment whatever for holy oils, to sell blessed rosaries or crucifixes. Such objects lose, if sold, all the indulgences previously attached to them (S. Cong. Of Indulg., 12 July,1847). Simony of ecclesiastical law is, of course a variable element, since the prohibitions of the Church may be abrogated or fall into disuse. Simony whether it be of ecclesiastical or Divine law, may be divided into mental, conventional, and real (simonia mentalis, conventionalis, et realis).
In mental simony there is lacking the outward manifestation, or, according to others, the approval on the part of the person to whom a proposal is made. Invconventional simony an expressed or tacit agreement is entered upon. It is subdivided into merely conventional,
when neither party has fulfilled any of the terms of the agreement, and mixed conventional, when one of the parties has at least partly complied with the assumed obligations. To the latter subdivision may be referred what has been aptly termed "confidential simony", in which an
ecclesiastical benefice is procured for a certain person with the understanding that later he will either resign in favour of the one through whom he obtained the position or divide with him the revenues. Simony is called real when the stipulations of the mutual agreement have been either partly or completely carried out by both parties.
To estimate accurately the gravity of simony, which some medieval ecclesiastical writers denounced as the most abominable of crimes, a distinction must be made
between the violations of the Divine law, and the dealings contrary to ecclesiastical legislation. Any transgression of the law of God in this matter is, objectively considered,
grievous in every instance (mortalis ex toto genere suo).For this kind of simony places on a par things supernatural and things natural, things eternal and things temporal, and constitutes a sacrilegious depreciation of Divine treasures. The sin can become venial only through
the absence of the subjective dispositions required for the commission of a grievous offense.
The merely ecclesiastical prohibitions, however, do not all and under all circumstances impose a grave obligation. The presumption is that the church authority, which, in this connection, sometimes prohibits actions in themselves indifferent, did not intend the law to be grievously binding in minor details. As he who preaches the gospel "should live by the gospel" (1 Corinthians 9:14) but should also avoid even the appearance of receiving temporal payment for spiritual services, difficulties may arise concerning the propriety or sinfulness of remuneration in certain circumstances. The ecclesiastic may certainly receive what is offered to him on the occasion of spiritual ministrations, but he cannot accept any payment for the same. The celebration of Mass for money would, consequently, be sinful; but it is perfectly legitimate to accept a stipend offered on such occasion for the support of the celebrant. The amount of the stipend, varying for different times and countries, is usually fixed by ecclesiastical authority (see STIPEND). It is allowed to accept it even should the priest be otherwise well-to-do; for he has a right to live from the altar and should avoid becoming obnoxious to other members of the gy.
It is simoniacal to accept payment for the exercise of ecclesiastical jurisdiction, e.g., the granting of dispensations; but there is nothing improper in demanding from the applicants for matrimonial dispensations a contribution intended partly as a chancery fee and partly as a salutary fine calculated to prevent the too frequent recurrence of such requests. It is likewise simony to accept temporal compensation for admission into a religious order; but contributions made by candidates to defray the expenses of their novitiate as well as the dowry required by some female orders are not included in this prohibition.
In regard to the parish clergy, the poorer the church, the more urgent is the obligation incumbent upon the faithful to support them. In the fulfilment of this duty local law and custom ought to be observed. The Second Plenary Council of Baltimore has framed the following decrees for the United States: (1) The priest may accept what is freely offered after the administration of baptism or matrimony, but should refrain from asking anything (no. 221). (2) The confessor is never allowed to apply to his own use pecuniary penances, nor may he ask or accept anything from the penitent in compensation of his services. Even voluntary gifts must be refused, and the offering of Mass stipends in the sacred tribunal cannot be permitted (no.289). (3) The poor who cannot be buried at their own expense should receive free burial (no. 393). The Second and Third action of a compulsory contribution at the church entrance from the faithful who wish to hear Mass on Sundays and Holy Days (Conc. Plen. Balt. II, no 397; Conc. Plen. Balt. III, no 288). As this practice continued in existence in many churches until very recently, a circular letter addressed 29 Sept., 1911, by the Apostolic Delegate to the archbishops and bishops of the United States, again condemns the custom and requests the ordinaries to suppress it wherever found in existence.
To uproot the evil of simony so prevalent during the Middle Ages, the Church decreed the severest penalties against its perpetrators. Pope Julius II declared simoniacal papal elections invalid, an enactment which has since been rescinded, however, by Pope Pius X
(Constitution "Vacante Sede", 25 Dec., 1904, tit. II, cap. Vi, in "Canoniste Contemp.", XXXII, 1909, 291). The collation of a benefice is void if, in obtaining it, the appointee either
committed simony himself, or at least tacitly approved of its commission by a third party. Should he have taken possession, he is bound to resign and restore all the revenues received during his tenure. Excommunication simply reserved to the Apostolic See is pronounced in the Constitution "Apostolicae Sedis" (12 Oct., 1869): (1) against persons guilty of real simony in any benefices and against their accomplices.
The sin of SIMONY - Part Two
Acts Chapter 8
Blessed partners, this morning, I shared parts of my homily preached at our ordination service today. This service as always pioneered by the Holy Spirit, had hidden heavenly packages, which kept on being unveiled according to the obedience granted to us the the Lord's good spirit.
As I rose early in the morning to take care of the household chores before giving myself to the study of the Word, I felt the Holy Spirit giving me interpretation to something which had taken place the night before. This is when he told me that what had happened in the spiritual battle that took place was a manifestation of the spirit of Simony.
This got my attention and I hurriedly finished my chores and sought for deeper revelation through the study of the word and prayer.
Simony as we simply studied, is the deliberate intention of covering and buying (offering money in exchange) a spiritual gift, office or privileged in the church. Simony again, is making ppersonal profit of an office in the church.
This takes me to teatime when I was a child. My father who was also a prophet, had various ministers serving under him. It came a time that some were grudged because they felt that my father favoured some ministers than others. He were told hat he left the church to start his oan because though he was the most faithful and long serving pastor of my father, he was embittered because he for years had desired that my father would transfer the spirit of prophecy, signs and miracles on him. He felt that should be the reward for his long service. He also said that my father had locked up spiritual Giddings so that he alone could be revered.
You might have heard of similar stories. Recently, a bishop was disgraced by a fetish priest in Ghana, who claimed that he had given the bishop powers to operate in the signs, prophecies and wonders.
In his book, Blessings ans Curses, Dereck Prince shared the testimony of a church bishop who was vying for an office in the church who resoeyed to the fetish priesthood his village, to kill his opponent, who was also a bishop!!! Crazy!!!
The root of the sin of Simonyi according to Acts chapter 8, is UNHOLY COVETEOUSNESS. I said unholy because bible says that we should covet spiritual gift, but it doesn't say we should covet the spiritual giftings of others nor cover their portion life. I personally have desired the spiritual fittings manifested in other men and women if God and have others who tell me point blank that they want to be like me, if they want what they think I have. They encouraged ministry through their admiration. Others chose to use the spiritual principles of servings so as to catch the mantle on me.
Jesus says when you give yourself to the unholy coveting other people's gifts, it is because you embittered with your portion and allows evil spirits to use you. This makes you an evil eyed person or one under the influence of demons, a witch (Baskaino).
There is a holy desire that makes you desire to be used by God or want to be used by God like like the way he is using another. God judges our hearts and the motive of this desire is to serve the church and humanity,the will freely give as appointed. This was not so with Simon the wizard. His desire for the spiritual gift was to make him great and dominate others.
Brethren, after so many years, the Holy ghost is telling us that SIMONY has taking a violent dimension of coveting and stealing of spiritual gift in the church.
People are no more interested even courting, wooing, making friends with you, nor offering you money to get your spiritual gifngs or office.
They would not even waste their time ti ask a fetish priest for magical powers to operate in the church nor for magical powers to oust you.
No, the Holy Ghost says they have taken a violent dimension by ASTRAL PROJECTING (is the out of body spiritual navigating) into the homes of the person whose gift they covet, and by incantation try to steal (what has been given by God).
The doors that opens for such to happen as we have heart is gifting or bribing. Bible says giftings and bribing corrupt the heart of a king. Therefore guard your heart with all diligence and watch over your spirit.
Bible says the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. No Christian should steal, kill or destroy another because of a position,officer or privileged in church. It is not only a shame, but satanic. The first to begin this was Satan whole stole Adams spuritualnposition by giving his wife an apple. This is the same spirit that manifest in Simon the magician and for which he was cursed!!
Last week, Jesus unveiled to us the secret to greatness. God desires to be great. Jesus said all have their appointed share in life which US distributed by God. He also serve this shall be manifested in the lives of those who will leave to serve.
In today's homily, we have learnt that everyone want to be great. And where the gospel is preached like it was done by Philip, those under the dominion of Satan and those whose destinies have been exchanged or stolen through magical posts are restored. This causes the servants of Satan such as SSimon to infiltrate into the church as surely born aging Christians and by their craziness obtain positions and offices in the Churchill Christ for one reason. To be seen as the greatest, to dominate others, and to rule over their destinies by hindering, binding and distorting them from being what God says they are.
Paul called such imposters ( which is rightly defined as magicians, enchanter). They were Apostles, Bishops, men and women were installed into the five fold.
But as the Lord lives, there come a day when Peter decides to visit the church. This is when these who have been able to fake around Philip, begin to show their true colors. What they cannot steal by astral projection and magical powers, they steal by offering the man or woman money gift for.
But as the Lord lives, bible says, and Peter whose name is also Simon, cursed Simon the magician fake believer saying, let destruction overtake you and your money!!!
By the powers that is in the blood of Jesus, I decree any" simonic" activity and operation against your appointed share in life, your destiny, your fittings, your abilities or your office into he church to FAIL. I assign every' simonic operations to destruction in the name of Jesus!!! I release every blessing and fittings locked up in the camp of Simon for you in Jesus name!! God richly bless you!!
But there was a man named Simon, who had formerly
practiced magic arts in the city to the utter amazement of
the Samaritan nation, claiming that he himself was an
extraordinary and distinguished person.
10
They all paid earnest attention to him, from the least to
the greatest, saying, This man is that exhibition of the
power of God which is called great (intense).
11
And they were attentive and made much of him,
because for a long time he had amazed and bewildered
and dazzled them with his skill in magic arts.
12
But when they believed the good news (the Gospel)
about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ
(the Messiah) as Philip preached it, they were baptized,
both men and women.
13
Even Simon himself believed [he adhered to, trusted in,
and relied on the teaching of Philip], and after being
baptized, devoted himself constantly to him. And seeing
signs and miracles of great power which were being
performed, he was utterly amazed.
14
Now when the apostles (special messengers) at
Jerusalem heard that [the country of] Samaria had
accepted and welcomed the Word of God, they sent Peter
and John to them,
15
And they came down and prayed for them that the
Samaritans might receive the Holy Spirit;
16
For He had not yet fallen upon any of them, but they had
only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.
17
Then [the apostles] laid their hands on them one by one,
and they received the Holy Spirit.
18
However, when Simon saw that the [Holy] Spirit was
imparted through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he
brought money and offered it to them,
19 Saying, Grant me also this power and authority, in order that anyone on whom I place my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
20 But Peter said to him, Destruction overtake your money and you, because you imagined you could obtain the [free] gift of God with money!
21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is all wrong in God’s sight [it is not straightforward
or right or true before God].
22 So repent of this depravity and wickedness of yours and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this
Contriving thought and purpose of your heart may be removed and
disregarded and forgiven you.
23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in a bond forged by iniquity [to fetter souls].
24 And Simon answered, Pray for me [beseech the Lord, both of you], that nothing of what you have said may befall me!
25 Now when [the apostles] had borne their testimony and preached the message of the Lord, they went back to Jerusalem, proclaiming.
(Amplified bible, biblegateway online.)
ProphetessDr Diana ADU
All rights reserved
24-02-2014
COPYRIGHT ©2014 DIANA ADU MINISTRIES
You may reproduce this DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS content for non-commercial purposes in accordance with THE DIANA ADU MINISTRIES AND MISSIONS' Copyright Policy.
All rights reserved
God richly bless you!!!!
Diana Adu, pluripremiata cantante Gospel, protagonista a livello internazionale da moltissimi anni di questo genere di musica definita anche Spirituale si esibisce da sola ed insieme ai suoi artisti/cori.
Grazie alla collaborazione ed ai contatti con numerosi cantanti sia italiani che internazionali, Diana è in grado di organizzare eventi e serate a tema di grande spessore artistico.
Ogni anno Diana presenta e si esibisce in prima persona il Gospel Fragrance Festival, presso l'auditorium del Conservatorio di Brescia. Un evento ad ingresso gratuito, patrocinato dal Comune di Brescia, con la partecipazione di artisti di spicco della musica Gospel e cori provenienti da tutta l'Italia.
Diana e il suo staff sono lieti di valutare collaborazioni e partecipazioni ad eventi e ad organizzare serate Gospel in tutta Italia.
Per informazioni e contatti: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Questa è la mia discografia e la mia produzione come autrice. Per informazioni sull'acquisto contattatemi all'indirizzo This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Our media ministries, offers books, cd's, dvd's at very low prizes. Please send us your order at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
BOOKS, CD's AND DVD's
Books
-
MYSTERIES OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
MYSTERIES OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
-
THE TABLE OF THE LORD
THE TABLE OF THE LORD
-
THE BLOOD OF THE ELOHIM Thanksgiving
THE BLOOD OF THE ELOHIM Thanksgiving
-
TONGUES ON THE DAY OF PENTECOST
TONGUES ON THE DAY OF PENTECOST
-
BAPTISM BY FIRE
BAPTISM BY FIRE
-
PSYCHOGENEANOLOGY AND PNEUMAGENEALOGY
PSYCHOGENEANOLOGY AND PNEUMAGENEALOGY
-
CONCEPT VITAE
CONCEPT VITAE
-
YOUR DESTINY MAKER
YOUR DESTINY MAKER
View the embedded image gallery online at:
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleriae18e1af4d3
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleriae18e1af4d3
CD's
View the embedded image gallery online at:
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleria405936da8e
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleria405936da8e
DVD's preaching
-
CHRIST THE DOOR Cristo è la PORTA
CHRIST THE DOOR Cristo è la PORTA
-
CROSSING OVER Oltrepassare
CROSSING OVER Oltrepassare
-
YOUR DESTINY MAKER
YOUR DESTINY MAKER
-
God is my Mother Dio mia madre
God is my Mother Dio mia madre
-
GOD IS MY CONFIDENCE Dio è la mia fiducia
GOD IS MY CONFIDENCE Dio è la mia fiducia
-
THE ESSENCE OF A WOMAN AND HER ROLE IN EVANGELISM
THE ESSENCE OF A WOMAN AND HER ROLE IN EVANGELISM
-
A MIRACLE AT CANA Un miracolo a Cana
A MIRACLE AT CANA Un miracolo a Cana
-
NO WOMAN DONT CRY Donna non piangere
NO WOMAN DONT CRY Donna non piangere
-
The Anointing of Blacks L'unzione dell'Africano
The Anointing of Blacks L'unzione dell'Africano
-
THE COVENANT KEEPING GOD Il Dio del Patto
THE COVENANT KEEPING GOD Il Dio del Patto
-
THE PURPLE ROBE La Tinica Rossa
THE PURPLE ROBE La Tinica Rossa
-
IL SIGNORE DELLA PIOGGIA Il Signore della Pioggia
IL SIGNORE DELLA PIOGGIA Il Signore della Pioggia
-
Prophetess Dayana in Piacenza
Prophetess Dayana in Piacenza
-
Mysteries of the Scarlet Thread
Mysteries of the Scarlet Thread
-
THE LAW OF GOD AND PENTECOST
THE LAW OF GOD AND PENTECOST
-
CHURCH UNITY
CHURCH UNITY
-
THE MYSTERIES OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
THE MYSTERIES OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
-
THANKSGIVING The Blood of the Elohim
THANKSGIVING The Blood of the Elohim
-
KEEP YOUR DRESS ON Dont loose your garment
KEEP YOUR DRESS ON Dont loose your garment
-
God Laughs at the Second Passover
God Laughs at the Second Passover
-
PROPHETIC PRAISE Lode Profetica
PROPHETIC PRAISE Lode Profetica
-
THE SECOND PASSOVER La seconda pasqua
THE SECOND PASSOVER La seconda pasqua
-
STRUGGLING WITH THE INVISIBLE Lotta con gli Invisibili
STRUGGLING WITH THE INVISIBLE Lotta con gli Invisibili
-
VESSEL UNTO HONOUR Un Vaso ad Onore
VESSEL UNTO HONOUR Un Vaso ad Onore
-
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT BLACKS
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT BLACKS
-
WHAT IS THE TIME Che tempo fa
WHAT IS THE TIME Che tempo fa
View the embedded image gallery online at:
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleriafb682c7849
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleriafb682c7849
DVD's gospel
View the embedded image gallery online at:
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleria4ad98d7ccb
http://www.dianaadu.com/index.php/component/k2/itemlist/category/2-diana?start=196#sigProGalleria4ad98d7ccb
