Bishop's Blog

Posted on March 11, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

Jesus didn’t just teach prayer — He lived it. He didn’t pray out of religious duty — He prayed because He understood the power and purpose of prayer. And when the disciples saw the results of Jesus’ prayer life, they didn’t ask Him, “Lord, teach us how to heal” or “Teach us how to work miracles.” No — they said, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1).

Why? Because they realized that prayer was the source of Jesus’ power.

And the early church fathers understood this too. Tertullian — one of the great defenders of the faith — called prayer the Christian’s greatest weapon. He said prayer is more than words — it is a force that moves heaven and shapes the earth!

So today, I want to help you rediscover the true purpose and power of prayer. To add a Title to this text i’ll call it  Kingdom Gems”The Power and Purpose of Prayer.

 We’re going to learn from the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom of Tertullian. Tertullian was the first Christian writer to face a serious attack concerning the nature of God. In response, he outlined a formula summarising the Biblical teaching on this, and was the first to use the word trinitas / Trinity in a technical way to describe the relation of God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Tertullian was a prolific early Christian author from Carthage in the Roman province of Africa. He converted from his pagan background and devoted himself to writing impassioned books — more than 30 in total — in defense of the true faith. He attacked the pagan religions of the Roman Empire, and challenged heretical versions of Christianity.

By the time we finish, you’re going to walk out of here knowing how to pray with authority and how to see results in your life! Jesus didn’t give us the Lord’s Prayer as a cute religious poem. He was giving us a Kingdom blueprint. Let’s look at it again:

“Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name,
Your kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven…”
(Matthew 6:9–13)

Notice how Jesus starts: “Our Father…” That’s relationship. That’s intimacy. Jesus is telling us that prayer is not just about asking for things — it’s about relationship with the King.

But then He says, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done.” Now we’re getting to the core purpose of prayer. Prayer is not about convincing God to do something for you — it’s about aligning yourself with what He already wants to do through you!

You see, prayer is not begging God to act — it’s giving God permission to establish His will in the earth. God gave humans authority over the earth (Genesis 1:26). That means He works through us — and prayer is how we give Him legal access to operate in our lives and in the world.

Tertullian understood this! He said, “Prayer is the wall of faith, our shield and weapon.” In other words, prayer is not passive — it’s an act of spiritual authority! You are not powerless. When you pray, you are standing in your Kingdom authority as a son or daughter of the King.

Elijah didn’t ask God to do something random — he aligned his prayer with Heaven’s agenda, and the weather changed! That’s the power of prayer. James 5:17–18 reminds us:

“Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain.”

Now here’s where most Christians get it wrong — they come to God timid and hesitant, unsure if He’s going to answer them. That’s not how Jesus taught us to pray!

Jesus said:
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
(Matthew 7:7)

That’s confidence! That’s boldness! Jesus wasn’t telling us to come begging; He was telling us to come with expectation!

Tertullian got this. He wrote:
“Shall we not approach God with confidence when the Lord Himself has taught us how to pray? He who would not have taught us to pray unless He intended to hear our prayers?” Let me break it down for you — God is not reluctant to answer you. He’s waiting for you to ask! Prayer is the legal mechanism by which Heaven’s resources are released into your life. You’ve got to stop praying weak prayers like, “Lord, if it’s your will…” No! Jesus already told you God’s will — He wants His Kingdom to come on earth as it is in Heaven! That means healing, that means provision, that means peace, that means deliverance!

In Isaiah 38, King Hezekiah was told by the prophet Isaiah, “Set your house in order, for you shall die.” But Hezekiah didn’t accept that report —the Bible says that he turned his face to the wall and prayed:

“Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully…”
(Isaiah 38:3)

And guess what? God responded and said:
“I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will add fifteen years to your life.”
(Isaiah 38:5)

Hezekiah’s prayer changed the outcome of his life! Prayer can shift your destiny. So when you pray, you’ve got to come with authority! Come like you know who you are — a child of the King!

Now don’t miss this, Now listen— prayer is not just about you. It’s about advancing the Kingdom. God didn’t give you prayer so you could just ask for a bigger house, a better car, or a new job. No — prayer is a Kingdom tool for advancing God’s agenda on earth.

Jesus said, “Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” Why? Because prayer is a Kingdom tool, and the Kingdom of God operates on love and forgiveness.

Tertullian wrote that prayer should be made “not only for ourselves but for others, even for our enemies.” He said, “Prayer is to be made for kings and governors, and even for those who persecute us.”

That’s heavy! Why would God tell us to pray for our enemies? Because prayer transforms not only our situation — it transforms us. You’re not just called to pray for people you like — you’re called to pray for your enemies. Why? Because when you pray for others, you open the door for God to work in their lives and in yours! When you start praying for your enemies, your heart (Mind) begins to change. You begin to see them as God sees them. And you start walking in love and authority. You see, prayer isn’t just about changing your circumstances — it’s about changing you!

Job’s restoration didn’t come when he prayed for himself — it came when he prayed for others! That’s Kingdom order! Job 42:10 says: “After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.”

Let’s go deeper. Jesus, the Son of God, prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Why? Because true prayer is not about bending God’s will to match your desires, True prayer is not about convincing God to do what you want — it’s about aligning yourself with God’s will! That means prayer is not about manipulating God — it’s about surrendering to Him. When you pray, you are giving God permission to establish His Kingdom order in your life.

Daniel’s prayer activated angelic help! When you pray according to God’s will, you release Heaven’s resources. It says this in the book of Daniel “Since the first day you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.” And let me tell you — when God’s Kingdom order shows up, sickness has to leave, confusion has to go, and lack has to bow! Why? Because the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17)!

Church, the power of prayer is not in the words you say — it’s in the authority behind the words – prayer is not passive — it’s a weapon! God is not reluctant to answer you — He’s waiting for you to ask. Your victory is not in your strengthWhen you pray in the name of Jesus, you are not speaking from your own authority — you are speaking as an ambassador of Heaven!

If prayer changed the weather for Elijah…

If prayer added 15 years to Hezekiah’s life…

If prayer restored Job’s fortune…

What could happen in your life if you prayed with boldness and faith?

God wants to partner with you through prayer. Heaven is waiting for you to speak! Your victory is not in your strength — it’s in your prayer life.

Posted on February 18, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

Life presents us with pivotal moments when we encounter daunting challenges that seem impossible to overcome, and the glimmer of success feels unattainable. Yet, amidst these turbulent periods, if we anchor our faith and trust in the Lord, we will discover He illuminates our path. As we navigate through chaos and uncertainty, we find ourselves transformed, ultimately witnessing the unfolding of a hard-fought victory once thought distant.

In the preceding chapter, we observe King Jehoshaphat diligently engaged in the reform of his kingdom. He worked tirelessly to ensure that justice was administered fairly and that the practice of religion was upheld with utmost reverence. With high hopes, he anticipated a reign marked by peace and prosperity. Yet, just as life’s unpredictability would have it, he soon found himself in a web of distress. This turmoil, however, paved the way for a breathtaking deliverance that served as a golden testament to his unwavering faith and devotion.

Facing a formidable invasion from the Moabites, Ammonites, and their allies, Jehoshaphat felt the weight of impending battle as his forces appeared outnumbered. In his most profound anxiety, he turned inward, seeking divine guidance and wisdom. This pivotal decision embodies the essence of trusting in the Lord—a reminder that, in our vulnerability, we can look to a higher power for strength. By relinquishing our fears and seeking His counsel, we position ourselves to witness the remarkable ways God unravels our struggles, revealing His marvelous loving-kindness.

In verse 16, the command comes: “Tomorrow go down against them.” This crucial direction may have led some to think that, with assurance from 2 Chronicles 20:15, Judah might not need to engage in battle. Yet, God wanted them to confront the enemy, using their participation in the struggle.

How many of us miss opportunities because we remain still when God calls us to move? Out of misguided fear, we deceive ourselves into thinking we are “waiting on the Lord,” neglecting what He has commanded us to do. These are tough questions we must ask ourselves.

Like Jehoshaphat, we must earnestly seek the Lord’s face, taking our households along in this pursuit. Even in fear, he turned to the Lord with his care. This recurring theme in 2 Chronicles emphasizes leaders who earnestly seek the Lord. We can expect great things when His people pursue Him, especially their leaders. Others who sought the Lord in 2 Chronicles include the faithful remnant of Israel, the people of Judah under King Asa, Jehoshaphat early in his reign, King Hezekiah, and King Josiah.

We are called to earnestly seek the Lord and encourage our households to do the same. This essence is captured in the word ‘seek,’ which reflects a deep call to worship and discovering God’s will. This principle defined Jehoshaphat’s reign and teaches us to trust in God rather than our resources, embracing what the Lord has in store for us and believing in fulfilling His promises.

As beautifully expressed, “If the Lord provides it, He will sustain it; if you force it under your own power, it becomes your burden to carry.” In this truth lies wisdom in trusting what the Lord has spoken to us. “You will not need to fight in this battle.” Such a profound statement from the Lord encourages us, reminding us that the battle is already won and the victory has been decided.

We hold a promise in John 16:33, where Jesus proclaims, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” In Revelation 21:6, it says, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty, I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.”

This battle is already won. Our trials and tribulations are merely fleeting shadows compared to our victory in Jesus’ name. As instructed by the Word of God, our calling is to stand firm. While we may not engage in physical battles, our strength lies in the resolute act of standing firm and holding our ground in the face of adversity.

In this moment, we stand at the threshold of a remarkable opportunity to boldly embrace the victory the Lord has granted us. It is time for us to unite as a passionate community of believers and step fearlessly into the battlefield of life. We will be led by the powerful and resounding voices of worshippers whose songs can shake the foundations of fear. With every step we take, we will lift our hearts and voices in unwavering praise, confidently proclaiming, “Praise the LORD, for His mercy endures forever!” This powerful refrain will be the heartbeat of our collective worship, resonating in our spirits and guiding our actions.

We will not rely on our merits, the good works we may have accomplished, or even the exceptional faith of significant figures like Abraham, Moses, or David. Instead, we will place our unwavering trust in God’s enduring mercy—a mercy that surpasses all understanding and unites us in hope and strength. This truth empowers us, and we will move forward with conviction.

May the Shalom and the Blessing of the Lord be with you now and forever more. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Posted on February 11, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

There are limits placed on everything we do, most of which serve a good purpose. As adults, we set boundaries for our children to protect them from harm. Yet, what about the limits we place on God? Why do we think we can confine the word of God? Who are we to dictate how to worship? While some may argue that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, they are correct—He is. Hebrews 13:7-8 encourages us to remember our leaders who shared God’s word with us and to reflect on their faith. However, we often allow our traditions to restrict what He can accomplish in our lives.

Staying stuck in the past hinders our progress in the Lord. Just because previous generations worshipped in a certain way doesn’t mean we must follow that path or enforce it on our children. Christ came to fulfill the law, not abolish it (Matthew 5:17-19). We risk creating a path of blindness when we place traditions above Jesus. In doing so, we might inadvertently elevate others over Him, forgetting that our access to the Father flows through Christ.

As 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 reminds us, we don’t have to wear a veil over our hearts; turning to the Lord removes that veil, granting us freedom in His Spirit. To move beyond limitation, we must direct our focus on Jesus and access the Father through Him (John 14:3-7).

The bottom line is to step out from behind the veil, remove the limitations, and allow the Lord to fulfill His extraordinary plans for your life.

Posted on February 7, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

As we think about the cost of discipleship, we turn our focus to the great commission and love. It’s essential to recognize that when we become true disciples of Christ, not everyone will understand or support our journey. In the past, when we were part of the world, those around us were accepting; however, now that we embrace God’s path, we might face criticism. This response is to be expected from those still living in the world.

But what about those within the church? Could they also harbor negativity towards us, just as the world does? When we are led by the Holy Spirit, while others pursue different guidance, conflict may arise. We may face slander and accusations, much like our Lord Jesus did—who faced blasphemy and ridicule but chose to fulfill the Father’s will above all.

Fellow disciples, as we align with the Father’s will and deny ourselves to follow Christ rather than man, we stand on solid ground. Trust that the Lord will bless us with mentors—those who have also denied themselves to follow Christ, pouring the goodness of Jesus into our lives for our growth. When the time comes for us to be sent out, they will support us wholeheartedly, even celebrating our new journey.

Remember, while some may hate you, they hated Jesus first. Embrace this truth, for vengeance belongs to the Lord.

Reference Verses

John 15:18-20

18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.

Luke 14:25-27

25 Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.

Romans 12:19-21

19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it[i] to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Posted on February 4, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

In times of spiritual warfare, we confront unseen challenges. Tuning into the voice of the Lord, we hear His reassuring words: do not be afraid or discouraged. The Bible reminds us that the battle belongs to God. In 2 Chronicles 20:17, Jehoshaphat seeks the Lord’s guidance, reflecting on His promise to deliver them as they approach a daunting battle, outnumbered and in need of divine intervention. Judah is facing the nations they had spared on their journey from Egypt, and Jehoshaphat humbly admits their powerlessness and need for help against ungrateful attackers.

As he prays, the Spirit of the Lord empowers a Levite to bring comfort to the assembly, repeating the message: do not be afraid or discouraged. The Lord assures them that the battle is not theirs; they need not fight. Instead, they must take their positions and trust in Him. This profound truth remains for us today. As believers in the army of the Lord, we stand against spiritual enemies, relying on the God of peace to make us more than conquerors. Our trials will transform into triumphs, and all glory must be given to the Lord.

Reflecting on God’s faithfulness assures us that these spiritual battles are not ours but His. We are called to take up the positions He instructs us to. So, I challenge you: embrace the positions the Lord has set for you and step forward with confidence.

Posted on January 31, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

A voice echoes through the vast expanse of the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord.”

This powerful proclamation, first heralded by John the Baptist and rooted in the prophetic words of Isaiah 40, invites us to explore two profound dimensions—one physical and one spiritual. In Isaiah 40, this call to prepare emphasizes the imminent arrival of the Word into the world, a presence destined to carry the burden of humanity’s sins. This voice serves as a clarion call to those lost and spiritually desolate, urging them to ready themselves for the transformative journey that lies ahead.

It beckons us to acknowledge that the way, the truth, and the life are approaching, prepared to enter the land and instill healing and hope into its weary heart. The promise of salvation and restoration stands before us, inviting each of us to partake in the divine reconciliation unfolding in our midst.

As we navigate uncertain times, we must prepare our hearts to welcome the Lord Jesus Christ into our lives. We must learn true repentance, which means turning away from the things the Lord tells us not to do and embracing His forgiveness and acceptance. True repentance is a change of heart that leads to a lasting transformation in a person’s life. It involves acknowledging and rejecting sin, choosing to live in a way that honors God. This encompasses a heartfelt conviction of sin, turning away from it and toward God, fostering a change in character and life, and developing a hatred for sin for the sake of Jesus.

Repent—While this word strictly denotes a change of mind, it relates here to the sense of sin that compels the sinner to flee from impending wrath, seek relief from above, and eagerly embrace the provided remedy. (Jamieson et al.)

For the kingdom of heaven is at hand—This sublime phrase, found in this uniquely Jewish Gospel nearly thirty times, echoes Daniel’s grand vision of the Son of Man coming in the clouds to receive His investiture in a world-wide kingdom (Da 7:13, 14). It serves both to meet national expectations and to redirect them. A kingdom that requires repentance as its proper preparation must be fundamentally spiritual. Deliverance from sin, the great blessing of Christ’s kingdom (Mt 1:21), can only be valued by those for whom sin is a burden (Mt 9:12). Hence, John’s great work was to awaken this feeling and offer hope for a speedy and precious remedy. (Jamieson et al.)

Work Cited

Jamieson, Robert, et al. “Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible,.” logos, Logos

Research Systems, Inc., 1997, https://app.logos.com/. Accessed 30 January 2025.

Posted on January 14, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

Let us be the light and an example to others, using our testimony to guide them on their journey. It is up to them to make the change for the better. Do not carry the weight of failure when it seems they are not choosing the right path. Remember, one plants, one waters, but only God brings the increase. This reminds us that while we can plant the seeds of faith, we may not see the change or growth ourselves. We must trust that the Lord is leading our steps in our mission to bring them into the light of His salvation.

Continue to be an example even when it appears they are not absorbing the lessons from your life. Ministering to others requires great perseverance and patience; thus, we must remain steadfast in offering the right words at the right times. You are not doing anything wrong by sharing the Word of God and living out your testimony.

When you engage with them, seek ways to connect their life situations to the Word, helping them gain understanding. Use relatable parables to make the Word accessible and reliable. This is reflected in our testimony, as shown in the Word of God and in their own lives.

Remember, those you minister to often view their life through a narrow lens. We must help them see their circumstances from different perspectives, weaving these insights into the Word. It may not always be easy, but it is effective; keep in mind that we might not witness the full extent of their growth.

Do not be discouraged in doing good for them. Continue to invest in their lives, for change will surely come. You’ve mentioned that they recognize the prophetic words you share, affirming the spoken Word of God over their lives. Remain steadfast, Prophet; speak the word in season and out of season, and know that you are fulfilling God’s will.

Posted on January 8, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

(Short Answer) – Yes, loyalty can exist without idolatry.

(Long Answer with an explanation of my thoughts)

True loyalty is characterized by unwavering commitment and support without placing anyone or anything on an uncritical pedestal, which veers into idolatry. Healthy loyalty fosters critical thinking and constructive feedback while steadfastly upholding essential values of support and allegiance.

Loyalty itself is not a problem; issues arise when it is practiced blindly, ignoring potential consequences, or applied without thoughtful consideration. Unidirectional loyalty—where one person is devoted to another who does not reciprocate—can be particularly problematic. It’s crucial to recognize that loyalty often operates within a framework of mutual expectations, reinforcing the need for balance and reciprocity in any loyal relationship.

The notion of submission to authority has become increasingly unpopular in contemporary Western society, marked by a notable shift in moral perspectives. This transformation is so significant that if Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, were to interact with an audience in 21st-century America, his straightforward and often critical evaluations of moral failings within his community might easily be construed as excessively harsh or even abusive. He addressed various forms of immoral behavior among his followers with a frankness that many today might find unsettling or intolerant.

In the modern context, loyalty and unwavering commitment to others—qualities once seen as virtues—are frequently misinterpreted as forms of idolatry. This reinterpretation can lead to the dismissal of deep, meaningful relationships as somehow inappropriate or unhealthy. For example, consider the profound and complex friendship between David and Jonathan. In today’s cultural climate, their bond might be labeled as an “idolatrous relationship,” stripped of its historical and emotional significance.

Take a moment to reflect on David’s unwavering respect for Saul, whom he repeatedly referred to as “my father,” even in the face of Saul’s relentless pursuit to kill him driven by jealousy and fear. This exemplifies an extraordinary loyalty that is often overlooked in our current era. Similarly, the prophet Samuel displayed remarkable fidelity to Eli, his mentor, even after receiving a direct prophecy from God that condemned Eli’s behavior. This kind of steadfastness appears increasingly rare in a world that often prioritizes individualism over allegiance to authority figures or traditions.

The pervasive influence of humanism, which prioritizes human reason and individual agency, has spread rapidly across the globe, largely facilitated by the internet and social media. This advancement has accelerated the erosion of traditional values, replacing them with a more self-centered worldview. In stark contrast, many societies that are sometimes labeled as “primitive” maintain a strong emphasis on virtues such as devotion, loyalty, and a sense of community, which continue to be regarded with high esteem. This divergence in values highlights a fundamental shift in how relationships and authority are perceived in our contemporary landscape.

Again, Yes, loyalty can exist without idolatry.

Posted on January 7, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

Freedom transcends the boundaries set by religious doctrine, leading us to a deep and profound understanding of our true selves. This journey of reflection compels us to turn our attention toward the Western Church, particularly within the unique context of “American Christianity.” Here, the tendency to categorize sins into socially acceptable and unacceptable forms creates a landscape fraught with confusion and contradiction. While the church may not overtly address this dilemma, the actions it endorses and the prevailing cultural norms suggest an implicit acceptance of this flawed distinction. The very idea of acceptable sin stands in stark contrast to biblical teachings, which unequivocally assert that all sin holds equal weight, ultimately leading to spiritual death. This misguided classification complicates our pursuit of genuine freedom in Christ. Individuals might consciously strive to avoid overtly visible sins, yet they often become ensnared by those subtler sins that society deems acceptable but are equally insidious.

Idol worship serves as a particularly striking example of this phenomenon. An idol, in this context, is anything placed above our devotion to God. This form of worship infiltrates a myriad of aspects of American life, pervading realms such as sports, entertainment, and material possessions. Though the church may not explicitly advocate for idol worship, it inadvertently encourages the exaltation of these modern distractions. Frequently, church leaders prioritize sports events or alter service times, overshadowing the spiritual needs of their congregations. This misalignment may lead congregants to direct their prayers toward the fate of their favorite sports teams rather than the pressing needs of their community, thus reinforcing a cultural narrative where such priorities dominate our collective consciousness. The Bible calls us unequivocally to direct our devotion solely toward God, leaving no room for competing interests.

Forgiveness emerges as another crucial aspect often overshadowed by these concerns. The importance of embracing true and complete forgiveness cannot be emphasized enough. Failing to engage in this vital practice sows the seeds of discord and fosters gossip within our communities. Biblical wisdom powerfully reminds us, “But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” By cultivating a renewed commitment to forgiveness, we can significantly strengthen our church communities, particularly as many within the congregation may carry the weight of unresolved offenses. By rejecting the normalization of socially acceptable sins, we can nurture an environment where freedom in Christ is not merely acknowledged but celebrated and wholly embraced, creating a spiritual atmosphere rich with grace and understanding.

Posted on January 6, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

It is essential to embrace the individuals we are destined to become with unwavering conviction. The sacrifices made in the pursuit of fulfilling our purpose are considerable; nevertheless, we frequently derive joy from these sacrifices. What may appear imprudent to those who perceive the world through a secular lens possesses profound significance within the divine schema. The efforts we commit are genuinely meaningful, particularly when we witness even one individual experience the transformative grace of God through surrender. Consequently, every action we undertake must be aimed at glorifying the Father, and we take pride in publicly affirming His everlasting mercy and love.

We maintain the hope that our brothers and sisters who have deviated from their faith will ultimately return to God, embraced by a community that acknowledges their intrinsic worth. Our sincere prayer is for any place of worship—whether contemporary churches, intimate gatherings, or any setting that honors Him—to function as a sanctuary for all individuals, regardless of race, creed, background, or past experiences. It is disheartening to contemplate that a child of God might ever feel unwelcome within a church context due to their struggles.

It is particularly concerning to listen to those who have distanced themselves from their faith as a result of negative past experiences. It often appears that the doors of the church, which should remain open to all, have instead become obstructions. As followers of Christ, we are called to be His disciples, with the mission of inviting others into His embrace and worshiping the Father. This situation raises the question: why is it so challenging for us to fully accept this calling?

A fellow believer encapsulated this sentiment effectively, asserting, “It is time to go to the streets and provide a safe haven for worship.” I strongly align with this perspective. In collaboration with my fellow believers, I am dedicated to reaching out to those who have experienced isolation from the modern church. If we can positively influence even one life and guide that individual back to faith, then every effort expended will be justified.

As a collective faith community, we are compelled to articulate the struggles and concerns of those who have felt overlooked and marginalized. It is our responsibility to confront the spiritual challenges that have taken root within our communities and to endeavor toward healing and restoration. Let us unite in prayer as we strive to dismantle the generational barriers that constrain us. With a resolute declaration, we will proclaim, “No more will you have dominion over this place.”

Posted on January 2, 2025 | By Carlton Howell

The Messiah embodies what many pastors seek, as highlighted in the Gospel according to Luke Chapter 14: “Now great multitudes went with Him.” Yet, this raises an essential question for us today: will you choose to share the truth of the Gospel, even if it means potentially drawing fewer people, or will you lean toward what I call the “Modern Day Preaching Checklist”?

1. Avoid discussing Hell.
2. Steer clear of confronting sin.
3. Prioritize not offending anyone.
4. Keep the message surface-level, and lastly,
5. Focus on encouraging a return visit.

It is essential to strike a delicate balance between extending compassion to individuals and upholding the integrity of the message we seek to convey. Every pastor is called to navigate this complex path with care, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere while earnestly endeavoring to communicate the profound, transformative power of the truth.

When we embrace Jesus as our teacher and guide, the answers we seek are embedded in his teachings. In the Gospels, we encounter a striking moment when Jesus turns to his followers and proclaims, “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.” This powerful statement is just one example of how the Messiah courageously delivered hard truths, challenging his disciples to reassess their priorities and commitments.

As modern-day messengers of God’s word, we, too, must be unflinching in our commitment to sharing these brutal truths with the people of God, resisting the temptation to dilute our message with comfortable, feel-good sentiments. Our Master, Jesus, did not shy away from hard conversations, and we must remember that we are not greater than Him. He has entrusted us with a vital message to deliver to his flock. As he began his ministry, the Scriptures revealed his proclamation: “Repent for the Kingdom of the Lord is at hand.” His call was an urgent invitation to turn away from sin and the distractions of the flesh.

Moreover, the apostles’ teachings urge us not to become ensnared by superficial displays or to fall prey to misleading doctrines. Instead, we should remain steadfast, adhering to the Gospel revealed by the Word Himself. This is the foundation upon which they built their ministry and must also serve as our guiding principle.

Therefore, we must be willing to discuss topics such as Hell and the Grave, confront sin head-on within our sermons, and encourage our congregations to delve deep into their faith, striving to study and show themselves approved before God. We must prepare for the possibility that some may take offense, understanding that persecution may arise due to our commitment to the truth. After all, it is written, “The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord,” and we must be ready to face being hated by all for the sake of His name.

Who is your Master? The Messiah or ??????????.

Posted on December 30, 2024 | By Carlton Howell

As this year comes to a close, just like every other year, the clock will transition from 11:59 PM to 12:00 AM on December 31st to January 1st. Many people now make promises to themselves, hopeful that these commitments will endure beyond February. Let us embrace this opportunity for genuine change, knowing we can make aspirations a reality with determination. The Bible tells us in Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” This is done in response to his command and under his authority, drawing strength from him to honor his glory and rely on his merit for accepting our good deeds and pardoning our shortcomings.

Thus, we discover two key takeaways for the Newness of the year.

1. The Lord Jesus must be the Mediator of our praises as well as of our prayers.
2. We must give thanks in all things; whatsoever we do, we must still give thanks. As Ephesians 5:20 says, “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;”

In Conclusion, Those who do all things in Christ’s name will never want a matter of thanksgiving to God, even the Father.