Deathbed Conversion: The Reality of Accepting Jesus Christ as Savior!

Deathbed Conversion: The Reality of Accepting Jesus Christ as Savior!

Deathbed conversion is a terminology invented by the early Catholics and Anglicans to describe the repentance of someone who has few moments to give up the ghost. Invitation of priests or pastors for such ministration is not usually done without a fat envelope for the minister.

The commercialization of this act made deathbed conversion beliefs acceptable in the Christian community. But the truth is that accepting the doctrine of a deathbed conversion can never make any soul enter the kingdom of God. Today’s message will give a scriptural explanation about the reality of accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior.

The Misconception of Scripture to justify Deathbed Conversion

It is not new that the false teachers always create misconceptions of Bible verses to justify their deceitful doctrines. The teaching about deathbed conversion was only justified by the story of the thief beside Jesus Christ on the cross. The false teachers lied that he repented from his sins and made confession to Jesus Christ, which led to his acceptance into heaven.

Luke chapter 23 verse 39 to 43 says:

“Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save yourself and us.””

“But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?””

“And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.”

“Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.””

“And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.””

1. Verse 39 was the statement of the first thief crucified beside Jesus Christ. His statement reveals his usual arrogant way of getting things he wants from anyone. He desperately wants freedom but doesn’t believe in Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus Christ didn’t respond to him because He had suffered enough mockery for that day.

2. Verse 40 and 41 are the expressions of the second thief on the cross who acknowledged that Jesus Christ was not a criminal.

3. Verse 42 revealed that the second thief was also desperate, but his request was not arrogant like the first thief. He didn’t confess his sins but asked Jesus for an uncommon favor.

4. Jesus’ authoritative response to the second thief was shocking, unexpected, and truly controversial!

5. Jesus’ declaration to the second thief was personal and specific, and Jesus didn’t refer to it as a Christian doctrine.

6. The second thief never confessed his sins on the cross and never went through repentance, but he desperately asked for an uncommon favor, which was granted.

7. That the second thief will be with Jesus in Paradise was a specific conversation to him only and was never a message to be conveyed to the world to encourage deathbed conversion.

Biblical Perspective: Is Deathbed Conversion Realistic?

Don’t fall into the deceit of the devil by postponing your spiritual seriousness with the LORD to your old age or to a few minutes after your passing away!

The following biblical scriptures do not support the theological debate of deathbed conversion:

1. Matthew chapter 7 verse 21 to 23, in which Jesus states, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

This verse underscores the necessity of genuine, consistent faith and suggests that mere verbal acknowledgment of Christ in one’s final moments may not be sufficient.

2. Hebrews chapter 6 verses 4 to 6, which speaks to the gravity and responsibilities of true faith. According to these verses, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance.”

This perspective underscores the difficulty of reconciling a sudden, deathbed conversion with the depth of ongoing spiritual commitment that characterizes genuine faith.

3. Luke chapter 13, verses 24 to 27, provides further insights. Here, Jesus warns, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.

“When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from,’ “then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’

“But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.’””

This parable emphasizes the significant effort required for salvation and the inherent insincerity of last-minute pleas when they lack a lifelong commitment to faith.

Salvation is not merely an endpoint but a transformative journey that involves repentance, renewal, and an ongoing relationship with the Holy Spirit.

The juxtaposition of a hurried, deathbed conversion against the biblical call for genuine faith and spiritual relationship questions the authenticity and acceptability of such an eleventh-hour decision.

This subject matter is like the false teaching of “eternal security,” in which the false teachers tell you to just accept Jesus Christ as your savior and you will gain heaven despite any form of lifestyle you persist to live.

Hmm! Don’t be confused. It is not a matter of contradiction, but it is simply the manifestation of unquestionable authority by Jesus Christ, so never copy the act of the favored thief because it will blow you up.

“Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” (Galatians 6:7-8)

Controlled by Demons? 10 Signs to Know Someone Filled with Dark Spirits

Controlled by Demons? 10 Signs to Know Someone Filled with Dark Spirits

Someone controlled by demons does not necessarily run mad and they can act powerfully like a servant of God. Have you wondered how some people act strangely in church? Today’s message explains some signs you need to watch out for to make it easy for you to distinguish the manifestations of evil spirits from the Holy Spirit.

10 Signs that Someone is Controlled by Demons

1. Drastic Personality Changes

One of most alarming signs that someone’s soul may be controlled by demons is the occurrence of drastic personality changes. These changes often manifest suddenly and without a clear explanation, leaving friends and family bewildered by the stark contrast in behavior.

For instance, a person who is typically calm and composed may begin to exhibit extreme aggression, lashing out without provocation. Similarly, an individual known for their cheerful disposition might suddenly become overwhelmed by profound sadness or irrational fear.

These drastic personality changes are distinct from ordinary mood swings or emotional fluctuations that can result from stress, fatigue, or other everyday factors.

2. Unexplained Physical Ailments

One of the more alarming indicators that an individual is controlled by demons is the presence of unexplained physical ailments. These symptoms often manifest as chronic pain, fatigue, or recurring illness that lacks a medical explanation.

It’s crucial to note that these physical ailments should first be thoroughly examined by healthcare professionals to rule out any possible medical conditions. Only after exhaustive medical evaluations fail to provide a diagnosis should one consider the possibility of demonic influence.

3. Love for Religious Materialism

This was common among many prophets and pastors in the Christendom. ‘Powerful’ people controlled by demons always want to use ‘mediums’ during prayers. They want to connect to the ‘supernatural’ through materialism such as candles, water, oil, perfumes, rods, handkerchief, soap, rosary and the likes.

Everyone controlled by demons practices idolatry in a subtle way because they find it impossible to pray and worship God without holding a material or reciting repeated words in the form of speaking in tongues.

I don’t say speaking in tongue is demonic but if no one is interpreting the tongues you better watch out if the languages are from the demonic realms. John warned us to test all spirit!

4. Supernatural Abilities or Knowledge

This ability by someone controlled by demons is very confusing with someone controlled by the Holy Spirit. But don’t be confused because Jesus Christ says that by their fruits you shall know them.

Many false prophets and pastors fall in this category. They can perform many miracles. They can give detailed information about distant events, personal details of strangers, or insights into complex subjects without any prior learning or experience.

But it was under the influence of the demons. A typical example is the magicians performing miracles just as Moses did before the king.

5. Cause Disorderliness in midst of Saints

People controlled by demons are always uncomfortable amid children of God praying or gathering for bible studies. So, they always put up malicious behavior, cause disrespect and all forms of scenarios that could cause chaos in the holy gathering.

Watch out for people who speak in tongues in the gathering without edification causing confusion and disorderliness. It may amaze you that that is the order of the day in many churches today and it is a signal to know the numbers of demon in their midst.

6. Auditory Hallucinations

Hearing voices that others cannot perceive, especially those that command harmful actions, is a strong indication of demonic influence. These voices often instill fear or encourage self-destructive behavior.

7. Visual Hallucinations

Seeing disturbing images or entities that are not visible to others can also be a sign of demonic presence. These visions may be terrifying and persistent, impacting the individual’s mental state.

8. Sudden Changes in Voice

A significant alteration in one’s voice, including speaking in different tones or languages unknown to the person, can signal demonic possession. This change is often accompanied by an aggressive demeanor.

9. Unnatural Physical Strength

Demonstrating strength far beyond normal human capability, especially during episodes of rage or distress, is a classic sign of someone controlled by demons.

10. Seductive and Abuse of Power
Most of them are highly seductive with the motive of polluting the hearts of people. They enslave those who respect them and very selfish and greedy in character.

Jesus Christ says: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves…A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit…Therefore by their fruits you will know them. (Matthew 7:15-20)

You can identify people controlled by demons through the points I mentioned above, and you have to be watchful so that you can be safe.

Atonement of Jesus: 10 Benefits and the Power for Your Life

Atonement of Jesus: 10 Benefits and the Power for Your Life

Atonement of Jesus Christ was the final New Testament plan of the Almighty LORD to put an end to the separation between HIM and everyone because the Old Testament sacrifices were not sustainable.

Have you ever thought of permanent freedom from sin? Did you find it difficult to believe that GOD can relate to you like a Father to His child? Today’s message about atonement of Jesus Christ will broaden your spiritual understanding about the power in the Blood of Jesus Christ.

What is Atonement of Jesus Christ?

To “atone for” means to make amendments. So, Jesus Christ played a vital role in changing our cursed status to blessings. The shedding of Jesus Christ’s blood on the cross and His death atones for our spiritual death and gives us eternal relationship with the LORD.

Atonement was GOD’s plan after the spiritual death of Adam in the Garden of Eden.

“…but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die…” (Genesis 2:17)

The LORD gave the commandment of Atonement to Moses:

“The bull for the sin offering and the goat for the sin offering, whose blood was brought in to make atonement in the Holy Place, shall be carried outside the camp. And they shall burn in the fire their skins, their flesh, and their offal.” …

“This shall be a statute forever for you: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether a native of your own country or a stranger who dwells among you…” (Leviticus 16: 27-30)

At one point the LORD reached the conclusion that the sinless human sacrifice would put an end to the grievous power of sin bonded on everyone and that is the atonement of Jesus Christ.  

How Was the Atonement of Jesus Done?

Hmm, it was not an easy task of sacrifice for Jesus Christ. Shedding His blood to deliver us from the stronghold of sin is a tough decision. His death and resurrection give us the freedom from the shackles of sin.

The atonement of Jesus Christ involved the following process:

1. When no one in heaven could volunteer He made the choice to come.

“Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, “You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know.” (John 7:28)

2. He lived a sinless life among sinners and taught us the holy path to follow.

“And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:40)

3. Jesus felt great pity for Himself and for us too.

“Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose, I came to this hour.” (John 12:27)

4. He went through unexplainable emotional pain when lifting the burden of sin.

“And being in agony He prayed more earnestly. And His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Luke 22:44)

5. Jesus Christ was arrested like a criminal so He can lift the sin placed on Him at the Mount of Olives to the cross.

“Then the detachment of troops and the captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him.” (John 18:12)

6. He was put to public shame when His robe was pulled off and nearly naked. Jesus admitted our eternal shame at that moment.

“Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.””

7. Christ was mocked and flogged. The significance is to save us from eternal mockery and punishment into eternal fire.

“Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him…And when they had mocked Him… led Him out to crucify Him.” (Mark 15:19-20)

8. Jesus Christ was laid and nailed to the cross carrying the burden of sin with Him.

9. At that moment His body on the cross was raised up like a sacrifice on the high altar and His blood that dripped to the earth was the greatest sacrifice done forever.

10. The LORD forsook Him at that moment so Jesus could lift the burden of sin as a wholesome sacrifice.

“And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”” (Mark 15:34)

11. Blood from His body that dropped to the earth is a significant part of the sacrifice that pleases God to cleanse our sins permanently.

12. Jesus Christ died on the Cross like a sacrificial lamb so that the power of sin could be dead in us. Atonement of Jesus is immeasurable!

13. He resurrects on the third day after defeating the forces of sin and death!

“He will swallow up death forever, And the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces; The rebuke of His people He will take away from all the earth; For the LORD has spoken.” (Isaiah 25:8)

The atonement of Jesus Christ will work for you if you believe in Him and obey His teachings. And you will enjoy a holy and powerful life of victory on earth and in Heaven.

7 Bible Verses About the Atonement of Jesus Christ

1. “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.” (Hebrew 9:12)

2. “Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness–by whose stripes you were healed.” (1Peter 2:24)

3. “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

4. “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit.” (1Peter 3:18)

5. “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

6. “…and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood.” (Revelation 1:5)

7. “Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:18)

10 Benefits of the Atonement of Jesus Christ

1. Reconciliation with God: Through Jesus’ atonement, we are reconciled to God. The barrier of sin that separates us from God is removed, and you can have a restored relationship with the LORD.

2. Forgiveness of Sins: Atonement of Jesus provides forgiveness for sins. You can receive forgiveness and be cleansed from your transgressions.

3. Justification: Christians are justified before God through the atonement of Jesus Christ, and you are declared righteous in God’s sight, not because of your merits, but because of the work of Christ on the cross.

4. Redemption: Jesus’ atonement buys you back from slavery to sin and its consequences. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, you are set free from the power of sin and its eternal consequences.

5. Adoption into God’s Family: You join the children of God and have all the rights and privileges of being part of God’s household.

6. Access to God’s Presence: The atonement of Jesus grants you access to God’s presence. The veil that separated the Holy of Holies in the temple was torn in two when Jesus died, symbolizing that through His sacrifice, you now have direct access to God.

7. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Through Jesus’ atonement, you receive the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit lives in you, empowering you to live a life that is pleasing to God and enabling you to bear spiritual fruits.

8. Victory over the Enemy: The atonement of Jesus Christ brings victory over your enemies. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated sin, death, and the devil. So, you can now walk in the victory that Jesus Christ has already won.

9. Transformation: Through Jesus’ atonement, you will experience transformation. The power of the Holy Spirit works within you to conform you to the image of Christ, producing godly character and enabling you to live a life that is pleasing to God.

10. Eternal Life: Through faith in Jesus Christ, you have the assurance of spending eternity with God in heaven, where there will be no more pain, suffering, or death.

The atonement of Jesus was a bloody sacrifice and a powerful influence of resurrection meant to deliver you and I from the bondage of sin and to reconcile us to the Almighty LORD forever.

I admonish you to believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ and your obedience to His commandments will make you enjoy forever and save you from eternal condemnation to lake of fire.

Jesus Christ says: “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes on Him who sent Me has everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but has passed from death to life.” (John 5:24)

Christian Disciple: 10 Helpful Steps Towards Discipleship!

Christian Disciple: 10 Helpful Steps Towards Discipleship!

Christian disciple is a status that involves your readiness to pay a huge price to discipline yourself to behave like Jesus Christ and follow His command in all circumstances of your life.

There is a strange error in our generation whereby there are many ‘Christian church goers’ but fewer Christian disciples. This article will be an eye-opener to the process of Christian discipleship and help you to know the right steps to take to become a Christian disciple that pleases the LORD.

7 Interesting Quotes on Christian Disciple

1. “The Christian life is the discipled life and the discipling life.”

― Mark Dever

2. “To be a disciple is to be committed to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and committed to following Him every day. To be a disciple is also to be disciplined in our bodies, minds, and souls.”

― Billy Graham

3. “Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.”

 ― Dietrich Bonhoeffer

4. “Until you have given up yourself to Him you will not have a real self…”

 –C.S. Lewis

5. “Discipleship entails a life of total self-denial, a humble disposition towards others, a whole-hearted devotion to the Lord alone, a willingness to obey His commands in everything, an eagerness to sense Him even in His absence, and a motivation that comes from knowing He is well pleased.”

– John McArthur

6. “Discipleship isn’t a program or an event; it’s a way of life. It’s not for a limited time, but for our whole life. Discipleship isn’t for beginners alone; it’s for all believers for every day of their life.”

―Bill Hull

7. “Discipleship is not an option. Jesus says that if anyone would come after me, he must follow me.”

Tim Keller

What is the Meaning of Christian Discipleship?

Christian discipleship is an active spiritual training of a genuine Christian who is ready to obey ALL teachings of Jesus Christ and to submit to ALL instructions given by the Holy Spirit so you can be like Jesus Christ.

It’s a lifestyle that involves comparing your thoughts, feelings and actions with the Word of God and His Revelations to you.

A Christian disciple is a God-fearing person who studies the Bible daily, obey the commandments of the LORD through Jesus Christ and prays to God consistently.

Followers of Jesus Christ love God unconditionally and the people around them such that they do everything to share the Gospel of Salvation.

Christian discipleship means Christian disciple obeying teachings of Jesus Christ through the tutoring of the Holy Spirit to become like Jesus Christ!

4 Major Cost to Become a Christian Disciple

“Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, “if anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”

“And whoever does not bear his cross and comes after Me cannot be My disciple.”

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it… “lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, “saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish…”

“So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.” (Luke Chapter 14:25-33)

Hmm, from Jesus’ statement above it shows that it is possible to start a Christian race and not finish well if such Christian disciple did not count the cost involved. This implies that Salvation is free, but Discipleship is not!

Cost 1: Don’t love anyone or yourself more than Jesus Christ!

The First Love in your life must be for the LORD. So, Jehovah should be the love of your life and any other love you have must fall under the First Love. No one, not yourself and nothing in your life must you take above your love for the LORD.

Cost 2: Take Responsibility for your tasks in life!

A Christian disciple does not give excuse, procrastinate, or expect Jesus Christ to come and do your own tasks. Followers of Jesus Christ are not lazy so you must bear your cross daily.

You don’t commit deliberate sins and tell God to overlook them or to blame the devil for your carelessness.

Cost 3: Follow Jesus Christ Every day!

You cannot make any independent decision without the approval of the LORD. So, every step you take and every action you do must be according to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

You don’t have the freedom to follow popular worldly styles or church doctrines and regulations which cannot be found in Jesus’s teachings. You won’t obey any ‘brilliant advice’ that contradicts the counsel of the Holy Spirit.

Cost 4: Give All Your Possession to the Poor!

Christian disciple is not a tithe giver, you must be ready to share your profits or earnings with the poor people. Followers of Jesus Christ share more than their tithes with the needy (Read Acts chapter 2 and 3).

You are not allowed to accumulate wealth on earth, and you are not allowed to enrich pastors by building mega-churches but to share your wealth with the poor in your community.          

4 Major Stages of Christian Discipleship

1. Stage of Decision Making

Not all Christians are disciples of Jesus Christ, so the first stage for you to become a Christian disciple is to make up your mind to follow Jesus Christ after you have counted the cost of discipleship.

It is a stage you set your mind to be a “Soldier of Christ” with a strong readiness to follow Jesus Christ and never to look back.

2. Stage of Research to Know God

Christian discipleship involves laying a strong spiritual foundation in Jesus Christ after surrendering everything about your life to the LORD.

This stage entails personal bible study from Genesis to Revelation and seeking the Holy Spirit to explain the mind of God related to the passages you read. For more than two decades I have been doing this stage and I am spiritually stronger every day despite the storms.

3. Stage of Yielding Fruits

This stage is consistent because Jesus Christ says by their fruits you shall know them. It is paramount that a Christian disciple obeys all the teachings of Jesus Christ everyday such that your attitude, speech and things you do are different from the unbelievers. Your fruits of the Holy Spirit and the spiritual gifts you have will be profitable to people around you.

4. Stage of Evangelism

This is also a continuous stage because your output in stage 3 will make it easier for you to preach the Gospel of Salvation to people and unbelievers can see and learn from your lifestyle as a genuine follower of Jesus Christ. The core function of a Christian disciple is evangelism and sharing your wealth with the poor.

“Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”” (Matthew 19:21)

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

7 Quality Characteristics of Christian Disciple

1. They don’t trade the fear of GOD to satisfy anyone.

2. Their love for GOD is absolute and they hate worldliness.

3. Christian disciple seek the presence of GOD daily and detest sin.

4. Selfless service to the LORD is their priority and never eye-service.

5. Follower of Jesus Christ believes GOD only and can never be deceived by false doctrines.

6. The watch word of Christian discipleship is ‘Obey GOD and not your appetites’.

7. A Christian disciple worships the LORD and not any man or comfort of this world.

Examples of Christ Follower in the Bible

1. Peter and Andrew

“And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him.” (Matthew 4:18-20)

2. Zacchaeus

“Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.” (Luke 19:8)

3. Young man who wants to bury father first.

“Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:59-60)

10 Benefits of Christian Discipleship

1. You will have a constant relationship with the Holy Spirit.

2. A Christian disciple wins souls for God’s kingdom.

3. Seeing GOD in His Glorious formation for your holy transformation.

4. Christian discipleship instill humility.

5. You cannot be spiritually deaf or blind, which is the current spiritual pandemic.

6. The spiritual training makes it easy for you to be righteous.

7. You cannot be deceived by science, witchcraft, false prophets, or the devil.

8. Christian disciples are blessed on earth and their greatest blessing is heavenly inheritance.

9. Spiritual victory is consistent.

10. A Christian disciple cannot be defeated by depression because they overcome tribulations through their spiritual strength.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ calls believers to be on track for Christian discipleship, so I encourage you to sustain your status as a Christian disciple.  

7 Deadly Sins: How Christians Can Avoid the Mess!

7 Deadly Sins: How Christians Can Avoid the Mess!

The seven deadly sins are set of behaviours that are considered to be particularly harmful to your spiritual and moral well-being with the LORD. In this sermon, I will explore each of the seven deadly sins and provide tips on how to avoid falling into the traps.

Proverbs chapter 6 verse 16 to 19 says:

“These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him:

A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood.

A heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil.

A false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.”

Why Are They Called “Deadly Sins”?

The seven deadly sins, also referred to as capital sins or cardinal sins, are believed to be the foundation of all other sins. These transgressions are considered to be the most dangerous to our spiritual growth and can lead to committing other immoral acts.

The seven deadly sins include pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth, and committing any of these sins can ultimately lead to the destruction of the soul.

The concept of the seven deadly sins has been around for centuries, with roots in early Christian theology. These sins are considered “deadly” because they can lead to spiritual death, separating us from our connection to God.

According to theologian Evagrius, our purpose as spiritual beings is to seek union with God, but indulging in these sins can sever that connection and prevent us from experiencing divine grace.

How to Overcome the 7 Deadly Sins

1. Pride: Practice Humility and Acknowledge Your Limitations

Pride is often considered the most dangerous of the seven deadly sins, as it can lead to arrogance, selfishness, and a lack of empathy for others. To avoid falling into the deadly sins of pride, it’s important to practice humility and acknowledge your limitations.

Recognize the fact that you don’t know everything and that you can learn from others. Be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and strive to be a team player rather than always seeking the spotlight. By practicing humility, the Holy Spirit will be your Counsellor and you can build stronger relationships with those around you.

2. Envy: Focus on Your Own Goals and Accomplishments instead of comparing yourself to others

Envy can make you have a lying tongue, leading to feelings of resentment and bitterness towards others. To avoid falling into the deadly sins of envy, it’s important to focus on your own spiritual and physical goals and accomplishments instead of constantly comparing yourself to others.

Remember that everyone has their own unique journey and path in life, and that success looks different for everyone. Instead of feeling envious of other faithful Christians, use their success as inspiration and motivation to work towards your goals.

Always praise GOD for your accomplishments and being happy about your progress, rather than constantly seeking validation from believers or unbelievers. By focusing on the power of Jesus Christ as you progress on your journey and spiritual growth, you can avoid the negative effects of envy and cultivate a more positive and fulfilling life.

3. Wrath: Learn to Manage Your Anger and Communicate Effectively

Anger is a natural emotion that everyone experiences from time to time, but when it becomes uncontrollable and destructive, it can lead to serious problems, such as shedding innocent blood.

To avoid falling into the deadly sins of wrath, it’s important to learn how to manage your anger and communicate effectively with others. This means taking a step back and assessing the situation before reacting, listening to the response of the Spirit of the LORD in you, and expressing your feelings in a calm and respectful manner.

It’s also important to listen actively to others and try to understand their perspective, rather than immediately becoming defensive or aggressive. By learning to manage your anger and communicate effectively, you can avoid damaging relationships and cultivate more positive and productive interactions with others.

4. Greed: Cultivate Generosity and Gratitude.

Greed is the desire for more and more material possessions, often at the expense of others. To avoid falling into the deadly sins of greed, it’s important to cultivate generosity and gratitude.

This means focusing on what you have, rather than what you lack, and being willing to share your resources with others. You can also practice gratitude by regularly reflecting on the things in your life that you are thankful for.

5. Gluttony: Practice Moderation in all Areas of Your Life.

Gluttony is the excessive consumption of food, drink, drugs or other substances. To avoid the deadly sins of gluttony, it’s important to practice moderation in all areas of your life.

This means not only watching what you eat and drink, but also being mindful of how much time and energy you devote to other activities. It’s okay to indulge in your favourite foods or activities occasionally, but it’s important to maintain balance and not let them consume your life.

By practicing moderation, you can avoid the negative consequences of gluttony and live a healthier, more balanced life.

6. Sloth: Live a Life of Work Plus Faith in the LORD

One of the seven deadly sins is sloth, which is characterized as spiritual laziness, and a tendency towards inactivity, frivolity and neglecting to do good, such as a heart that devises wicked plans. Lazy people won’t hesitate to bear false witness and they are experts in the act of lies.

You can overcome slothfulness by reading the bible daily, practicing the commandments of the LORD, getting your hands busy and be a faithful Christian.     

7. Lust: Always be Conscious of the Presence of GOD in You

Lust is a deadly sin I have suffered from in the past but I am glad the Spirit of the LORD set me free. Unclean sexual desires can destroy you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Lust is a strong weapon of the Devil to crush people to hell!

The best step that gives me victory which can also work for you is to set your mind to have the consciousness that your body belongs to the LORD. Whenever lustful thought fills your heart don’t give-in but ask yourself; what will Jesus Christ do in this situation?

So, always obey the commandment that tells you to flee from temptation. Take your eyes away from seduction and always remember that the Blood of Jesus Christ is so powerful to wash your dirty mind.

First Corinthians chapter 6 verses 18 and 19 says: “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

 

Finally, the LORD can forgive you any of the seven deadly sins above. HE told me to go and preach to the world that whosoever is ready to follow His will shall be forgiven no matter how big the sins committed. And the LORD says: “Peace and Mercy will be with those that obey the rules…the rules of holiness!”