The Bedrock of Belief: Why Faith is Essential in Christianity

Christianity, at its core, is a religion built on faith. It's the foundation upon which all other aspects of Christian belief and practice rest. But what exactly is faith, and why is it so essential for Christians?

The Bible offers several definitions and metaphors for faith. In Hebrews 11:1, it's described as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Faith allows us to believe in things that cannot be proven with absolute certainty, yet hold them as true with unwavering conviction. It's a trust in God's character and promises, even when we can't fully understand them.

Here are some key reasons why faith is essential in Christianity:

Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God: The Bible tells us in Ephesians 2:8-9 that “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, so that no one can boast.” Salvation, the act of being saved from sin and its consequences, is a gift from God received through faith. We cannot earn it through good works or perfect behaviour. Our faith is a demonstration of our trust and dependence on God's grace.

Faith allows us to believe in the unseen: Christianity is centered on the belief in God, a being we cannot see with our physical eyes. We believe in Jesus Christ, God's son who came to earth, died on the cross, and rose again. These are all foundational tenets of the faith that cannot be empirically proven. Yet, through faith, we accept them as true based on the scriptures and the impact they have on our lives.

Faith provides hope and comfort: Life is full of challenges and uncertainties. Faith allows us to trust that God is in control, even when we don't understand what's happening. Romans 8:28 assures us that “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse doesn't promise an absence of difficulty, but it offers hope that God will use even the challenging times for our good.

Faith is the key to spiritual growth: The Bible encourages us to grow in our faith. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Just as a plant needs water and sunlight to flourish, our faith needs to be nurtured through prayer, studying the Bible, and fellowship with other believers.

Faith inspires us to live a Christ-like life: James 2:17-18 tells us that “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” True faith isn't just mental assent; it translates into action. Our faith compels us to love others, serve our communities, and live according to the teachings of Jesus.

In conclusion, faith is the bedrock of Christian belief. It's the cornerstone of our relationship with God, allows us to believe in the unseen, provides hope and comfort, and inspires us to live a meaningful life. While doubts and questions may arise, Christians strive to cultivate a faith that is unwavering, a faith that allows them to fully embrace the promises and transformative power of their religion.

Alan Raju John

Embracing Faith in a Modern World

In a world obsessed with data, algorithms, and the tangible, the concept of faith can feel antiquated. Yet, this very modern world, with its constant barrage of information and relentless pace, is precisely where faith becomes most crucial. It's the bridge between the seen and unseen, the anchor in the storm, the source of courage that compels us to take that critical leap forward.

The Call to Adventure

The Bible is replete with stories of individuals taking leaps of faith. Abraham, the father of faith, uprooted his entire life based on God's promise of a new land (Genesis 12:1-4). Stepping out of his comfort zone, he embarked on a journey that would shape the course of history.

Similarly, we too experience a call to adventure, a yearning for something more. It may be a nudge to pursue a dream career, a prompting to mend a broken relationship, or a whisper to finally start that creative project. This inner voice, often described as a calling, can be faint at first, but it grows stronger with each passing day. Proverbs 27:18 reminds us, “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Ignoring this inner voice, this intuition, can lead us down paths of regret.

Faith is a Muscle

Taking a leap of faith isn't about blind recklessness. It's about calculated risk, fueled by a belief in something bigger than ourselves. It's the entrepreneur who pours heart and soul into a new venture, the student venturing abroad for the first time, the artist finally sharing their work with the world. Hebrews 11:1 beautifully defines faith: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

This “confidence” isn't passive; it requires action. Just as a muscle needs exercise to grow stronger, faith flourishes when we take those initial steps. The Bible is filled with examples of this active faith. David facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17) or Esther approaching the king (Esther 4) – both took action despite the odds stacked against them. Their faith wasn't a guarantee of success, but it propelled them forward.

The Tightrope Walk of Fear and Faith

Taking a leap of faith doesn't negate fear. Fear is a natural human emotion, a primal instinct that keeps us safe. However, we cannot let fear paralyze us. 2 Timothy 1:7 assures us, “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and love and self-control.”

Think of faith as a tightrope walk. Fear is the wind that buffets you from side to side, threatening to throw you off balance. But faith is the pole you grasp tightly, the anchor that keeps you tethered. It's the unwavering belief that even if you stumble, there's a net to catch you, a force propelling you forward.

The Unexpected Gifts of Leaping

The greatest rewards in life often lie on the other side of our comfort zones. By embracing faith and taking that leap, we open ourselves up to a plethora of possibilities. We discover hidden strengths, forge new connections, and experience the exhilarating joy of personal growth.

Perhaps the leap leads to the dream job you never dared to pursue, or maybe it strengthens a bond you thought was lost. The beauty lies in the unknown, the element of surprise that life throws our way.  Isaiah 43:19 tells us, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Taking a leap allows us to witness these unexpected gifts, the new paths God carves out for us.

Faith in a Modern Context

In a world that prioritizes logic and reason, faith can seem out of place. But true faith isn't blind belief; it's a deep trust, a knowing that there's a force for good working in the universe. It's the belief that even in the face of uncertainty, there is hope.

This faith can translate into various aspects of our modern lives. It's the trust we place in a friend even when they make mistakes, the unwavering belief in ourselves even when faced with setbacks, the hope for a brighter tomorrow even amidst global challenges.

Alan Raju John

Changing your Focus Can Change Your Life

I'm reminded lately of the Power of Gratitude and spending Quiet Reflection Time and the impact it can have in our lives! In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Between work, family obligations, and endless to-do lists, finding moments of peace and reflection can feel like a daunting task. However, incorporating practices such as gratitude journaling and quiet time spent listening to God (not just praying to ask for requests) can significantly transform our mindsets and spiritual journeys.

Gratitude journaling has gained popularity for a good reason. Not only does it remind us of what is meaningful in our lives, but it also helps shift our focus from what we lack to what we abundantly have. As Cheryl Shepherd from Balanced WorkLife recently discussed, keeping a gratitude journal serves as a constant reminder of our values and what truly matters in life.

[1]

Reflecting on gratitude helps anchor our minds in positivity and faith. When we write down what we're thankful for, we begin to see the world through a different lens. Suddenly, mundane moments are filled with grace, and we start to appreciate the little blessings that often go unnoticed.

Start by setting aside a few minutes each day (preferably before bed each night) to jot down three things you're grateful for. It could be as simple as a kind word from a friend, a beautiful sunset, or a moment of laughter with a loved one. Over time, this practice will create a tapestry of God's goodness woven into your everyday experiences. Then write down what you three goal or “big wins” will be for tomorrow. This will set a road map for what you want to achieve and what we think about is what we automatically move towards. 

In addition to gratitude journaling, spending quiet time with God is crucial for spiritual growth and inner peace. Cheryl Shepherd highlights the significance of resting in God's presence and surrendering control over our lives.

[2] In these moments of stillness, we can hear His voice more clearly and receive His guidance for our paths.

Set aside a specific time each day for this sacred practice. It could be in the morning before the rush begins, or in the evening when everything settles down. Find a quiet corner, free from distractions, and simply be still. Use this time to pray, meditate on scripture, or simply listen. God often speaks in a gentle whisper, and it is in these quiet moments that we can truly tune into His heart.

Combining gratitude and quiet time can create a powerful spiritual practice. As you reflect on what you're grateful for, take a moment to thank God for each blessing. This will not only deepen your sense of gratitude but also enhance your connection with Him.

Cheryl emphasizes replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations, grounded in scripture and prayer, to combat anxiety and fear.

[3] Use your quiet time to reflect on God's promises and let them wash over you, renewing your mind and spirit.

Incorporating gratitude and quiet time into your daily routine can lead to profound changes in your outlook and spiritual life. As you consistently practice these disciplines, you'll find that your heart becomes more attuned to God's goodness and guidance.

Start today and watch as your life transforms with each moment of thankfulness and stillness before the Lord.

Cheryl Shepherd

[1]: Source: Balanced WorkLife Cheryl Shepherd , February6, 2024.
[2]: Source: Cheryl Shepherd's reflections, February 7, 2024.
[3]: Source: Full Circle Moments Discussion on positive self-talk and spiritual growth, February 5, 2024.

Sharing My Special Birthday Wall Moment With YOU!

Hey there! This is Tony Francis, author of Healed Nations Ministries. I'm excited to share a special moment with you – my upcoming birthday! On June 7th, 2024, I'll be completing my thirties and turning 40. I want to celebrate this milestone with you by offering some giveaways and discounts as a token of my appreciation. I've also set up a comment section for us to interact. Whether you want to wish me a happy birthday, offer a prayer or prophecy, or bless my ministry that's reaching people around the world, feel free to drop a message. Praise God! I can't wait to see your name on the birthday wall! God bless you.

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A Letter to Fear By Joyce Meyer

Dear Fear,

I only refer to you as “dear” because of our long-term intimate relationship and certainly not because you are dear to me in any way. In fact, you've been a tormenting influence from start to finish. You have told me lies and prevented me from doing the things I wanted to do and should have done. You are indeed a miserable, wretched companion, and one that I am no longer willing to be involved with.

I'm writing you this letter to let you know that from this point forward, I will not fear. Although I may feel your presence, I will not bow down to your demands. I have a friend whose name is Jesus, and He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me, but to be with me always. He is indeed a powerful friend, and although you do have some power, His is by far much greater than yours. You can come against me, but Jesus lives in me, and the power of the One who is in me is greater than you are.

Now, although I cannot prevent you from coming to visit, I do want to give you notice that you will be ignored from now on. I'm far too busy now fellowshipping with my new friend Jesus and developing an intimate relationship with Him to give any of my time to you. The more time I spend with Jesus, the more courageous I become. He's teaching me a new way to live, one that's exciting and adventurous, one that is fearless.

I also want to inform you that since I have so much experience with you now and know how self-defeating it is to listen to you, I intend to tell as many people as I can what a thief and a liar you are. The years I have wasted with you will be redeemed, and I will bear much good fruit. Thank you, dear fear, for driving me to Jesus. You see, you made me so miserable that I sought a way to be free from you, and Jesus met me where I was and set me free.

Now, should you decide to waste your time and try to visit me even after my letter, I'm letting you know ahead of time that you will be met by faith in God and determination that I will not fear.

Sincerely and determined,

[Your Name]

“Letter to Fear” is taken from Joyce Meyer's Living Courageously book.

Let us know in the comments below if you are struggling with fear now or had and how you overcame it. Also if you need a prayer for this, readers here can pray for each other, and as a ministry, we will pray for you! 

How To Obtain Real Faith? A Powerful Teaching by Kathryn Kuhlman

 

Volumes have been written and spoken about faith, yet we understand so little about it. Each of us desires faith, but it's not something we can work up or carry around like a handkerchief. It's a gift from God, a fruit of the Spirit.

When will the world stop its foolish struggles and simply believe? If you've been trying to manufacture faith, just stop. Faith doesn't come from our mental and intellectual gymnastics; it must come from God.

We are capable of belief but incapable of exercising biblical faith. This is why many mistakenly think belief is faith. Belief is cold, intellectual, and mental. The devil believes, but that doesn't save him. We need to understand this clearly: belief and faith are not the same.

Faith is living, moving, operating, and sweeping away the enemy of our souls. You only need faith the size of a mustard seed if it's God's faith. If you sincerely want faith, He will impart it to you.

The Jericho Road without Jesus is just a road. With Jesus, it becomes a shining highway of salvation and healing. It takes the presence of Jesus to transform our lives.

The blind man didn't sit and say, “I believe I can see.” He cried out to Jesus for help. Jesus asked him, “What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?” The blind man wanted to see, and Jesus granted his request through faith.

Where did the blind man get this faith? Jesus gave it to him. Just like a watch given as a gift, the faith belonged to Jesus before He imparted it to the blind man.

Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. It's His matchless grace and love. We are like tiny seeds that can grow into something noble and beautiful for God.

Once, a tiny acorn shed its overcoat and grew through the winter with Mother Nature's care. But a man placed a heavy rock over it, hindering its growth. The little tree didn't struggle to move the rock; it simply grew until one day the rock was lifted.

You and I are like that little seed. We can grow through the challenges of life. The power of faith can be manifested in us until men and angels wonder.

When the battle is over and victory is won, don't boast of your own accomplishments. Kneel at Jesus' feet and say, “Is it not wonderful that His grace and faith should be manifested in me?”

Beloved, I have no faith of my own. It's not something I can manufacture or send to you. Faith is a gift from God. It comes from Him and is a gift He gives to you and me.

By Kathryn Kuhlman

You can listen to Miss Kuhlman's original message “The Real Faith” on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4ShaU6Jqk8

Powers of Christ Death and Resurrection

Christ’s death has spiritual significance as well as physical significance. Christ’s death and resurrection is being celebrated across the world, especially in Christendom, in the name of Easter, but very few really understood the meaning of His death and resurrection, and it physical and spiritual impart.
Let’s really look at it, is it not absurd to tell a man ‘Christ died for you’, Christ who died by crucifixion more than two thousand years ago and the man probably his lineage has never been born by then. Pray, tell, how do you think it sound? Ridiculous, I suppose!

True, Christ death is for all human beings, living by then and by now, being born into the world by then and by now, and yet to be born. It was not just death on the cross, great power of God was released at his death, powers that completely put to destruction ‘special forces of Satan that were holding them world against God; serving as barriers between Him and man, subjecting the world into occult, sin and death. The Bible said, “From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land … And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people,” (27:45-53, NIV).

Closely observe this passage, “…he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.” If the death of Christ wrought such physical events, then think of what transpired in the spiritual realm at His death. Each of these has meaning, for people with understanding mind to comprehend. At His death, or the power of God that was released at his death, wrought great destruction to the powers of darkness in the celestial realms. Special forces (demons and evil spirits) of Satan the devil that enslaved the world (even though the world was ignorant of this, for this transcended far beyond the physical and natural world), serving as barriers between God Almighty and human being living by then and being born into the world by then, fell to destructive power of Christ death; as the barriers were broken. The temple curtain torn, a spiritual significant that the door to God Almighty is now open widely for every human being to come to Him with no barrier (except barriers made by humans themselves who loves sin and its vain pleasure than God and Christ). Hades and Death (the most dreadful and one of the most powerful plane in the kingdom of forces of darkness on earth and in heavenly places) lost their overwhelming powers as Christ death freed the dead that has fallen to their powers (few saints actually, with spiritual significant that death has no more hold on the saints of God, those redeemed by Christ through their willingness to come to God through Christ the only True Way). From the time of Christ death onward to our presence days and far into the future, every human beings living in the world and being born in the world is no longer under the powers of these ‘special evil forces’ (except through human-created medium through sins and evil practices) – this is part of the source of the saying that ‘Christ died for you and I’ even after more than two thousand years his crucifixion took place.

Christ Himself did not remained dead for ever, he resurrected from the dead. The scripture accounted that, “In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me,” Matthew 28:1-10. Glory be to God in the Highest, Christ Himself, whose death freed the dead saints from the powers of Hades and Death, did not remained dead for ever – He broke the power of death over him!

His resurrection completed the total defeat of Satan and his forces of darkness, now there is no other name than that of Jesus Christ that one can be saved from the wrath of God Almighty coming furiously upon the sinful world. Christ Jesus is the True Way, a burden bearer and a friend of all sinners who is ever ready to share in our sorrows, problems, pains and affliction. May God the Father be praised forever for giving His only Son Jesus Christ, who has redeemed mankind back to Him; reconciling the gap sin and its powers had wrought between Him and humankind.

Samuel Akinola

Divine Surrender

I've been learning lately about surrendering to God. It's a weird place where I am right now, but what God is telling me to do is to surrender to Him. When thoughts in my mind are overwhelming, God is saying, “Surrender. Put your will at the cross and take mine.”

A week ago, the Lord told me, “My will and your will can co-exist, but it will limit what you get from me. The less of you in you and the more you surrender the rest to me, the more I'll be in you.” If you want to live with the fullness of grace, you'll have to give up anything that stands in your way to achieve that. So, if you want to go this far, well, you have to give up your own will to God.

God is way bigger than you can ever imagine. The visions He wants to give you are much greater than what your eyes can see. The same goes for the dreams He wants to give you, for the glory He wants to manifest in your life. So, if you depend on yourself, you'll fall short. Surrender your eyes, your mind, your whole self: body, soul, and spirit.

They always say to expand the limits of your expectations when it comes to God. But what's the difference between putting an infinite God in a small tent or in a gigantic temple? Nothing. He still doesn't fit; He's INFINITE. So don't expand anything; break those limits down! Expect God to break the limits of your expectations, for He's so good!

But as the Scriptures say, “No one has ever seen, no one has ever heard, no one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9). So, does this mean that I shouldn't expect anything? Of course not, but know what to expect. Expect the result and not the way He'll do it. Expect that your financial needs will be fulfilled, not that someone will give you money. If the Holy Spirit leads you to expect a certain way, do it. But if not, then don't.

Here's one way to surrender to God: surrender your body to the Holy Spirit. When you're worshiping God, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your body moves and start moving your body as He guides you. For me, when I do this activation while dancing, I don't know what the next move is, but when the time comes, I feel what I should do, or I see myself in the spirit doing it before actually doing it. The Holy Spirit may guide you in many other ways.

Surrender your mouth by speaking in tongues, and you can also, while praying in a known language, ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in your prayer and pray. But this time, same as dancing, you don't know what the next sentence or idea is, but when its time comes, you'll feel or see or you'll just know what to pray.

You can also surrender your eyes and your whole self! Surrendering your body to God is amazing, but what's more important is surrendering your way of thinking and your will to God. Your will at even daily choices! The closer you are to Him, the more you'll be able to surrender yourself to Him, especially your will.

Bachir Samaha

Fill The Space

By Francisco Arboleda

Recently, while completing some tasks at home, I suddenly felt the presence of the Lord. It came so quickly and heavily that I had to stop and lean into His presence. I heard the Lord say, “Fill the space.”

Immediately, I put down what I was doing and went into a private room where I could begin to pray.

The Lord continued, “My mandates are not optional, they are my orders for my people; if you don’t fill the space someone else will.”

That word provoked me and brought the fear of the Lord with it. The thought of the enemy filling spaces that the children of the Lord leave open is troubling, to say the least.

I believe the Lord is bringing His people into a revelation of His authority like we have not seen before, and through this word, and others like it in the days to come, the Body of Christ will have an opportunity to engage with the Holy Spirit to activate the Lord’s mandates across the earth.

We are in challenging times in our nations. But as we choose to seek God above all else, the Bible promises that the whole earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord.

In this hour, it is of critical importance to remember the authority we have in Him… AND how to use that authority. It’s not for selfish gain. Remember, what the Lord gives, He gives for the benefit of all people.

I want to share some key insights so that you can engage with this word today.

“Fill The Earth”

In Genesis 1:28, we are told that “God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it….’” Fill the earth is another way to say fill the space that He has entrusted to us.

A key word in this text is “be.” He wants us to “be”-come what He has mandated. We do this through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The Lord will help us to “be” a multiplier of Kingdom authority on the earth.

So here is your question to ponder with Him this month: Where can you partner with the Holy Spirit to become a Kingdom multiplier and fill the space(s) He has entrusted to you?

Ask the Holy Spirit where you may have the opportunity to increase.

Part of understanding authority is to realize that, as believers, we are to steward the blessings of the Lord. Can the Lord trust you with the blessings of heaven?

When the Lord told “man” (male and female) to fill the earth and subdue it (i.e., rule and reign on His behalf), Adam and Eve had not done a thing to earn that authority, but they did have the opportunity within their relationship with God to grow in their ability to steward all He had blessed them with.

It is the same for us today.

You do not need to “earn” the authority God has given to you in the spaces (realms, spheres, territories, and assignments) to which He has called and entrusted you. But it is time for us to steward the things He has given us so that we can begin to see the increase.

Hint: It’s more about your willingness to learn than what you already know.

We are Set Under the Authority of Jesus

In Luke 7:8-9 the Roman officer says, “For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.’” When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed Him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”

Can you imagine Jesus saying this about you? I believe He wants to. According to the Bible, God’s entire plan is to use those who believe in Him to show others how it should be.

We are to be an example to the world around us and in this story, we see Jesus pointing out exactly that.

I love what the centurion says, “For I too am a man set under authority.” There are a lot of places we can go in the area of authority, according to this teaching. But what I see on display here is the humility shown by this man. With Kingdom authority, a Christ-like humility is required. Remember, Jesus came to serve and not be served and yet was given all authority. He came down from heaven to display the mercy of our heavenly Father, and in obedience, took our place on the cross so that we might be saved.

In the case of the centurion, others responded to his authority, which was given to him by a superior authority. He also obeyed his superiors and carried out their orders. This earned him promotion within the ranks.

Similarly, Jesus is our Superior Authority, and the more we submit to Him, the more authority we carry into the world for the benefit of others.

Fill Your Space

Lastly, in the story of David and Goliath, the enemy is viciously taunting God’s people through Goliath, who is filling the space with mocking and taunts of defeat. The enemy was filling the space intended for the army of the Lord… God’s people cowered on the sidelines instead of defending their territory (space).

But all it took was one “David” to arise on behalf of God’s plans and purposes! Just one, who was willing to fill the space with truth, boldness, and confidence in the Lord. Just one, who was willing to step out into the “impossible” to take back the space and see the enemy defeated.

David learned to “fill the space” in the pastures and as an errand boy and worshipper. He came to know, love, and trust God in all things.

When you love God above everything – His ways, His commandments, His statutes – you discover how to let Him fill the space of your heart and mind. From there, we can then partner with Him to fill any space, realm, or territory on the earth.

It’s time to see an increase in the authority of the Lord in His people.

Are you ready to fill the space?

Are you ready to be a David? Are you willing to trust the Lord in all your ways? Are you willing to allow the authority of the Lord to grow in you as you move in obedience toward His mandates?

If so, join me in this prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your Word and Your promises… and that since creation, it was always part of Your plan that we would walk in the Kingdom authority You have given to us. Lord, help me to fill the spaces of my life with Your presence. I look to Your promises to follow You and lead others in the way we should go. I look to Your Word as orders for my life; I know You love me, and You’ll lead me where I should go. In Jesus’ name, help me to walk in Your authority and fill the spaces. Amen!

Francisco Arboleda

Francisco Arboleda is a key member of the Patricia King Ministries family.  He was hand-picked by Patricia to serve as the Pastor of Shiloh Fellowship – a church with both a global and local outreach. He has the heart of a true shepherd, caring for and covering every member of the congregation.  He is walking in his calling, and living his dream. His passion is to help others do the same.

A Theological Reimagining Of Altruism

The concept of altruism was first introduced by A. Comte which remained problematic despite a number of analyses. The crucial question as to what the relationship is between the good for other and good for oneself as a classic question of the relationship between altruism and egoism. This classic question has led many theologians and philosophers to envisage whether altruism is only a one-way act of giving from the side of one associated with a one-way act of taking from the side of another, and whether this the end of the act or it is reciprocity. However, this classical question has unattained philosophical and logical answer. In light with this classical question, has provoked me to explore it more from a theological dimension. The theme embarks us to revision which is existing, that is the concept of altruism to be re-visioned. The term re- visioning is the act of doing some revision, in other words the act or process of revising, which simply implies it is the process of revisioning what is existing. To revision altruism it requires to move beyond from the existing or transcend from the existing position, which is the concept of Kenosis therefore theologising this helps us to reimagine altruism theologically. self-interess

Transcending antails surpassing one's personal desire, needs, and concerns to prioritize the well- being of others or strive for a higher purpose The concept commonly associated with altruism compassion, and soffiessness, in religious and philosophical traditions, the notion of transcending self- interest considered to be a noble and virtuous pursuit, reflecting a commitment to the welfare of others and an acknowledgment of Interconnectediness and mutual responsibility. It can also be perceived as a spintual practice that fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

To transcend self-interest, individuals must develop empathy and compassion towards others comprehending By and empathizing with the needs and emotions of others, individuals can make choices that henefit the broader community rather than solely focusing themselves, Acting in the best interest of others, even wihen there is no immediate personal gain, can lead to greater fulfilment and satisfaction. By engaging in community service and offering assistance to these in need,own self-interest and play a role in creating a more harmonious society. To explore it further the below two important aspects helps us to explore the theme with different theological dimension.

1 Theological Praxis

The practical implementation of theological beliefs and principles in real life scenarios is referred to as theological praxis, it encompasses the active implementation of faith, whereby individuals actualize their religious convictions through concrete actions and behaviours. Theological praxis serves as a way to embody and express one's faith in a concrete and meaningful manner. The application of theological praxis has the potential to serve as a potentinstrumentin envisioning and revitalizing altruism. it offers a structure through which Individuals can comprehend the underlying significance and Intentionality of benevolent actions and empathy. Through anchoring altruistic conduct in theological precepts and ethics, Individuals are able to nurture a more profound and limpactful approach to altruism that is firmly grounded in their spiritual ideologies and beliefs. in the realm of reimagining selflessness, theological praxis encompasses the integration of theological perspectives on selflessness into one's actions and interactions with others. This may involve employing religious teachings or ethical principles to guide and inform selfless behaviour, actively engaging in acts of service or charity as a means of living out one's faith, and reflecting on how theological beliefs shape and influence one's approach to selflessness. Revisioning altruism through theological praxis goes beyond mere discussion or theoretical contemplation. It necessitates active engagement withaltruism In practical ways to explore how it can be reimagined, redefined, expanded, or improved upon. This may involve the implementation of new strategies to promote altruism, questioning existing norms or assumptions about altruistic behaviour or non-altruistic behaviour, and actively seeking opportunities to test and refine these ideas through practical action. James Cone while describing Black theology states no Christian theology could exist if it does not inentify with the bumiliated ad abused” therefore we nid to put our discussion lectures and teachings in praxis all teachings and lects must not be confined to ou lassrooms, seminars and urch but extend to the sorty, to the marginalized immunities, abused beings, numiliated Individuals and communities. Hence our theology must be in praxis, therefore, theological praxis in the context of revisioning altruism emphasize the importance of actively engaging with and applying the thoughts, ideas and approaches to altruism in order to create positive change and promote a more effective and meaningful practice of altruistic behaviour

De-othering

De-othering is the concept that highlights the importance of acknowledging and respecting the humanity and dignity of individuals who have been marginalized, stereotyped, or dehumanized. This concept involves breaking down the barriers that separate different groups and communities and so called “us” and “them”. These barriers and divisions are broken byde-othering which recognizes the common humanity that unites all individuals. In the context of revisioning altruism, de-othering holds utmost significance as it paves the way for fostering a more comprehensive and empathetic approach towards assisting others. By breaking the walls that separate individuals on the grounds of dissimilarities like race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or socio-economic status, people can nurture a profound understanding and bond with those who require aid.

2 De-othering

De-othering involves seeing beyond superficial differences and recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. It requires actively listening to so called others' stories, experiences, and perspectives, and working to dismantle stereotypes and prejudices that may hinder genuine understanding and compassion. By de-othering, Individuals can foster a more inclusive and equitable approach to helping others, rooted in a genuine recognition of shared humanity and a commitment to justice and solidarity. This process can lead to more meaningful and sustainable forms of support and empowerment for those in need, as well as contribute to building a more compassionate and just society. To reimagine altruism, de-othering provides space to look for commonality that underpin Christian theology such as love, compassion, justice, and forgiveness, towards those who are marginalized, and subjugated on the various ground day to day.

Conclusion

The theological relmagining of altruism through the lens of transcending self-interest offers a profound exploration of the interconnectedness between individual well-being and the welfare of others. This re-visioning, prompted by the theme “Re-visioning Altruism, urges a shift from conventional perspectives and calls for a deeper understanding rooted In theological dimensions. The concept of theological praxis emphasizes the practical Implementation of altruistic beliefs, guiding Individuals to embody selflessness in tangible ways. By integrating theological principles into actions and engaging with altruism actively, Individuals can create a more impactful and meaningful approach, grounded in spiritual ideologies. Furthermore, the notion of de othering is crucial in breaking down societal barriers, fostering empathy, and recognizing the shared humanity that unites us all. By acknowledging the dignity of marginalized Individuais and actively dismantling stereotypes, a more inclusive and compassionate approach to altruism can be cultivated, contributing to a just and equitable society. The theological reimagining of altruism Invites Individuals to go beyond theoretical contemplation and actively engage with altruistic practices. It advocates fora transformative journey that transcends self- interest, integrates theological principles into everyday actions, and promotes a more inclusive and compassionate society. In this pursuit, theology becomes a lived experience, extending beyond classrooms and churches to actively contribute to positive change in the wider community.

Sanjay Anand Raj G J