It is interesting to note that in the Greek language there are two words for time: chronos, which refers to the ongoing forward movement of time, and kairos, which refers to opportunity, or a favorable time. Jesus’ brothers wanted to push him into prominence (see John 7:1-8). Jesus knew that there was a right 'time' (Greek kairos) for him and … Continue reading Kairos – The Time of Opportunity
The Prophetic Ministry
The ministry of prophecy is to be an important part of the local church and the development of every church leader. This is a biblical concept and was used often in the appointment of leaders to various roles and ministries in the early church (see Acts 13:1-3. 1 Timothy 1:18-19; 4:14). The Prophetic Ministry A … Continue reading The Prophetic Ministry
Knowing God’s Will for Your Life
Knowing God's Will for Your Life God communicates to us in many ways, but all through the Spirit. These include: 1. Prayer. God wants to speak to you in your personal time with him. Take time to listen (tune in) to his voice. What are the desires of your heart and the gifts he has given … Continue reading Knowing God’s Will for Your Life
Responding to the Prophetic Word
Last week we had prayer and prophetic ministry over 430 of our church leaders. It was a terrific time of encouragement, challenge and ministry. This was the culmination of a season of prayer and fasting in our church. For those who received a prophetic words, here are some suggested steps for following that up: Responding … Continue reading Responding to the Prophetic Word
Prayer and Fasting (June 2013) – Day 12
Today's theme is JESUS CHRIST. Read Colossians 2. * Pray for a fresh revelation of Christ in your own life (Col.2:1-10). Pray that you would know Him better and more intimately - that you would know his heart and mind. Jesus calls us to be his friends. * Pray that God would expose any idols … Continue reading Prayer and Fasting (June 2013) – Day 12
Freedom in Christ
Jesus ministry had three major components (Luke 4:14-5:26): Teaching, healing and setting people free from spiritual bondage. Jesus confronted demonic powers and freed people from their influence (Luke 4:31-37, 41). The early church carried on the ministry of Jesus as the apostles focused on these same three areas of ministry (Acts 5:12-16). We should do … Continue reading Freedom in Christ
Experiencing God
Our mission as a church is to “raise up fervent followers of Jesus Christ who will reach out and impact communities, cities and nations for the kingdom of God.” A “fervent follower” is someone who experiences God, engages with others, equips themselves and others, and expresses their life purpose. This is all about being and … Continue reading Experiencing God
Like an Eagle …
During my sabbatical last year, I saw an eagle on at least five different occasions. The first time was a huge wedge-tailed eagle that flew near the tree tops not far from our house while we were on a walk. The others I saw while travelling in various places. Eagles are so beautiful and majestic to … Continue reading Like an Eagle …
Rob Bell’s Book: “What We Talk About When We Talk about God.”
Rob Bell's latest book is called What We Talk About When we Talk About God. Mark Galli, editor of Christianity Today, has recently reviewed the book and offers these insightful thoughts ... As far as I can tell, any classic, middle-of-the-road Christian can offer a hearty "Amen" to a great deal of Rob Bell's theology. … Continue reading Rob Bell’s Book: “What We Talk About When We Talk about God.”
The Joy of Not Knowing It All
I was reading the apostle's Paul's first letter to the Corinthians last week and came to chapter 13, the great love chapter, a chapter I have read hundreds of times. The following statement jumped off the page at me: 1Cor.13:12. Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will … Continue reading The Joy of Not Knowing It All
Henri Nouwen on Finding Our Identity in Christ
From Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen (1932-1996): “Aren't you, like me, hoping that some person, thing, or event will come along to give you that final feeling of inner well-being you desire? Don't you often hope: 'May this book, idea, course, trip, job, country or relationship fulfill my deepest desire.' But as long as you … Continue reading Henri Nouwen on Finding Our Identity in Christ
3 Great Questions to Start the Day
I like to start each day with some time alone ... with God. I read and reflect on the Scriptures (check out the CityLife Bible reading schedule for 2013) as a means of connecting with God. I also like to write my thoughts out in a journal. Sometimes I'll just record what has been happening … Continue reading 3 Great Questions to Start the Day
Doing Life With God
Another day begins. What's in store? What could God be up to? What would it look like if we did life together with Him? The apostle Paul once wrote … Col.3:17. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the … Continue reading Doing Life With God
Choose Your Own Adventure
Life as Adventure Have you ever thought of your life as an adventure? Our kids used to love reading the Choose Your Own Adventure book series when they were younger. The stories are formatted so that, after a couple of pages of reading, the reader, as the main character in the story, faces two or three … Continue reading Choose Your Own Adventure
The Spiritual Discipline of Fasting
At CityLife Church, we are about to commence a two-week season of prayer and fasting. Jesus fasted for 40 days at the beginning of his ministry, releasing great power into his ministry (Matthew 4:1-2), and he assumed that his disciples would fast also (Matthew 6:16-18). Fasting can be a powerful personal discipline to train our will, to … Continue reading The Spiritual Discipline of Fasting