Category: What do you think?

The Peace That Comes from Jesus

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FLOYD ROGERS

The kind of peace Jesus gives is not like what the world offers. It comes directly from Him and reflects His close relationship with God the Father. Jesus said that He and the Father are one, so the peace He provides is godly. It comes from heaven.

This peace can’t be found through people, possessions, or even quiet surroundings. It is found only through knowing Jesus personally. When someone enters into a real relationship with Him, they begin to experience a peace that is steady, even when life is uncertain or difficult.

This peace does not depend on what is happening around us. It remains, even when we face struggles. It is a gift that Jesus gives to those who trust in Him.

Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful.

John 14:27

The Fullness of Life Found in Christ

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AMY TURNER

In a letter to the Colossians, Paul speaks about Jesus using powerful words. He explains that the complete nature of God lives in Christ, and those who trust in him are made whole. Paul is showing that everything about Jesus is shared with his followers.

Christ is not lacking in any way. He is more than enough for the needs of the heart, the body, and the mind. Through him, people are able to live the life that God intended for them. Christ is not empty or missing something.

Jesus is the head over all power and authority, and those who are in him share in this fullness.

and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over every ruler and authority;

Colossians 2:10

Understanding the Role of Apostles in the Early Church

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JEFF TURNER

In 1 Corinthians 12:28, the Bible lists different roles in the church, starting with apostles. This order is important because it shows the special place apostles had in the early Christian community.

Apostles were the first group chosen by Jesus. There were twelve of them, all witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection. After Judas left, Matthias took his place. These men were the first to preach the gospel and teach what Jesus had shown them. The teachings they shared became known as the apostles’ doctrine. Early Christians would meet to learn from these teachings, which formed the foundation of the church.

The apostles also received special messages from God and wrote much of the New Testament. Because of their role, they are given a unique honor in Christian history. Paul is also counted among the apostles, even though he was not one of the original twelve.

After the apostles came prophets, who were early preachers who received guidance from God to help the church. Next were teachers, who helped explain the faith clearly. These roles are similar to today’s pastors and teachers. Evangelists, who focus on sharing the gospel with those outside the church, also play a key part, as seen in Ephesians.

The apostles hold a special place as the foundation of the church, a group that cannot be repeated. The church was built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. I hope this understanding helps explain how the early church was organized and why apostles had a unique role.

having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone,

Ephesians 2:20

A Willing Heart to Hear God

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FLOYD ROGERS

To hear God’s voice, we must first admit that we need to learn. This begins with having a teachable spirit. We need a heart that is open and humble. When someone believes they already know everything, they close themselves off from growth. Pride becomes a barrier to hearing from God.

Being teachable means being ready to receive truth, not just from personal reading or prayer, but also by learning from others. It means being willing to try, to apply what we learn, and to grow from experience. This kind of attitude invites God to speak, because it shows that we are ready to listen.

If we want to hear from God regularly and clearly, we need to stay open, eager, and honest before Him.

Therefore, ridding yourselves of all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.

James 1:21

God Provides for Those Who Give

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AMY TURNER

Many people hesitate to give because they worry they will not have enough left for themselves. This fear comes from forgetting what God has already promised. Scripture tells us that the Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. God is the source of every resource.

If He is the One who creates and sustains life, then we can trust Him not to abandon those who choose generosity. The call to give is not about losing, but about trusting that God will continue to provide.

God enriches us in many ways so that we can use those blessings to be generous.

And my God will supply [a]all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19