"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Jesus Christ." Philippians 3:13-14

ministry Leader: Sister Vera Barnes

the Women’s Ministry provides an opportunity for women to fellowship and enhance their knowledge of the Word of God. Through study and fellowship, women can better understand the Bible and Christian principles, while emphasizing spiritual growth. Through this ministry, participants also contribute to benevolence and community services.

THE EPISTLE OF JAMES – CHAPTER I

In the 1st chapter, James the writer of this letter or epistle, and believed to be the brother of Jesus, greets his audience and identifies them as “the twelve tribes (of Israel) which are scattered abroad.”  This epistle was written to the entire church, the New Israel.  James encourages faith and humility, telling the Christian to count it as joy when we go through trials, for it is this testing of our faith that develops patience or perseverance.  It is through this strengthening of our faith that we are able to hold on through trials and adversities.  It helps us to mature, acquiring spiritual wisdom with practical insight.  True wisdom comes from God and is available to all who seek and ask, in faith, believing and trusting the Lord.

There is a Blessing, the Crown of Life, promised to those who persevere, in faith, through trials.  All Believers have eternal life, but not all Believers are rewarded with the Crown of Life, it is reserved for those who are faithful unto death.(Rev.2:10)  To win the incorruptible Crown of Life, the Believer must: 1) deny self of anything that would weigh him down and hold him back.(Heb. 12:1); 2) he must keep his eyes fixed on Christ and not look right or left.(Heb. 12:2);  3) he must find his strength in the Lord.(Eph. 6:10-18);  4) he must place his all upon the altar of the Lord.(Rom. 12:1-2); and,  5) the Believer must, by faith, refuse anything that would impede spiritual progress.(Heb. 11:24-29)

James also exhorts the Believer to be doers of the Word and not hearers only.  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.  Man’s anger doesn’t bring about the righteousness of God, get rid of all that doesn’t reflect God, and humbly accept the Word planted in you, which can save you.  Those who obey the “Perfect Law”, the moral and ethical teachings of Christianity, are given joyous freedom, and the promise that “he will be Blessed in what he does.” (James 1:25)  All Believers are also expected to act in a Christ-like manner, which includes controlling our tongues, looking after orphans and widows, and keeping ourselves from being polluted by the world, through the power of the Holy Spirit, by faith.

Because of our 91st Anniversary Revival, the Evening Ministry will meet next Wednesday, May 22nd, at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary. Please come study James, CHAPTER TWO, this month.

Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!