DOMINION IS NO MORE

2Corinthians 1:24
Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

What is Dominion?

Synonyms for Dominion; supremacy, ascendancy, dominance, domination, superiority, predominance, preeminence, hegemony, authority, mastery, control, command, power, sway, rule, jurisdiction, sovereignty.

Dominion can be defined as; dependency on one. It could be in terms of a territory, province which is not if not for the other (colony, protectorate).

It can also be defined as; the power or right of governing and controlling a sovereign authority. The power to rule or control an entity.

Paul wrote about not having dominion over one's faith in the second letter to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:24). You can even realize that when he said this, he had already written so much to the Corinthians in the first letter seeking to guide them in the way of Christ.

But you also note that even in the first letter, he had tried to desist from presenting himself as the infallible and seeming to command rather than to guide. When he gave advice by or from his intuition, he would state it clearly so he could avoid misdirecting the true gospel of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 7:12).

Paul stressed it that he never loved it that their faith rests on the wisdom of men and on the excellence of speech, but on the power of God (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

For Jesus who is the founder and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2) preached the gospel of freedom. It is this freedom which translates into freedom from sin (John 8:34).

The ruins of the Corinthian Church premises

Paul must have been well aware or realized that he had preached a gospel of freedom and grace away from being held under the stringent dictates of the law, not again to subject the Christians to himself as if he had become the law but in a disguised or non-seeming way. For the law demands and if you don't, then it punishes severely.

For the law allows not for the process of transformation. It does not consider if one has knowledge of what to do. For it judges equally (but unfairly) both those in knowledge as those in total oblivion. On the other hand, though, grace says; yes you can, don't be bogged down by what seems impossible, rather dare it. And if you dare it, grace says: "I will add on you strength and you will surely overcome it".

So when Paul wrote this to the Corinthians, he wanted to desist from the connotation that because they (the Corinthians) had been entrusted to him as their spiritual leader, so were they answerable to him. For he wanted them to learn that everything is because of Jesus, and that it is all by the grace in and of Jesus that one can make it to the finishing line.

On this then, Paul sought to reassure the Corinthians that there had been no such attempt and intent as to seem to dominate anyone's faith, but to help them come to the fullness of their joy and of the knowledge of God. So, the Corinthians were not to perceive Paul's guidance as seeking to have dominion over their faith. Yet he was not only to say so, but to be practical as not to seem to have such intent.

Jesus is the Mediator between men and God (1 Timothy 2:5). Meaning Jesus is the only way to be saved and without whom there is no any other form of spiritual salvation (John 14:6). Jesus is the light of the world (John 12:46), (John 8:12). Yet when He taught, He left His listeners freedom and space to think and choose for themselves (Mark 4:9), (Matthew 13:9). For He had guided them and it was up to one to choose what would be befitting to them.

Equally so, as a minister, take it that you can only guide, but you can't dictate anything thereof. For it is by faith in Christ that whoever is Born Again is. Let everyone bear the brunt of their decision making, more so if they have been guided the right way to go (John 3:19). But to play one into something is wrong. So as a minister, desist from seeking to personally influence one's decision making. And avoid spying on one's freedom which comes but with submission to Christ (Galatians 2:4). Freedom in Christ is the clearest indicator that we are of and in Christ (Galatians 5:1). A Christian must desist anything that takes their freedom away which is but to draw them back to slavery.

Why did Jesus come?

Jesus came to set us free (John 8:36). He came to set us free from the stringent dictates of the law (not that we should live lawlessly). For the law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus (John 1:17). By whom your faith is, so are you answerable to. Those who adhere to the law of Moses so are they answerable to Moses. That the law of Moses is the lead reference. And so it is that the Pentateuch is by Moses. Yet one who chooses to go for grace and truth is answerable to the one by whom they came and that is Jesus Christ. As that, grace is not by the law and it is not in it that the truth is.

Jesus nailed the law of Moses on the cross

In this, that the law came by Moses, so it is that he dominates the faith of whoever believes in the law. Thus the Jews always referred Jesus to the law of Moses whenever He taught what seemed to be contrary to the dictates of the law of Moses (John 8:5), (Matthew 19:7), (Matthew 22:23-24). But because the truth came by Jesus, He always taught them it was not about the law of Moses but the truth which He was teaching them. It is on this fact that Jesus taught that you can't patch an old cloth with a new one, nor can you put new wine in old skins because they are totally incompatible (Mark 2:21-22), (Matthew 9:16-17).

The hot new wine tears up the old skin bottle.

So then, to seek to dominate one's faith, it is as if one intends to bring back the era and order of the law but in camouflage. For if the law of Moses was used in reference to Moses, so it is that you seek to present yourself as a reference in place of Jesus Christ. That what you haven't said is not and should not be! This totally places you off the balance.

For by the death of Jesus on the cross, we are set free from the curse of the law that we might all who come to Christ share in the blessing which was promised and granted to Abraham (Galatians 3:13-14).

The law is but for sinners (1Timothy 1:9-10). Yet that one is in Christ, they are no longer sinners but are counted righteous by way of having Christ's righteousness imputed to us (Romans 3:21-22, 5:17, 10:4), (1Corinthians 1:30), (2Corinthians 5:21). It is thus counted liberty and more glorious to us that in Christ, we are accountable to none else but to Him who is but our glorious God.

For When Moses delivered the Ten Commandments tablets to the children of Israel, he was pretty covered in the glory of the ten commandments, so that the Israelites could never look him in the face. They covered their eyes so as to avoid direct rays of the shining from him (Moses).

Thus to ask; if the ministration of death and condemnation (which is but the law) was that glorious, how much more exceedingly glorious should the ministration of the spirit and righteousness be? (2Corinthians 3:7-8, 3:9-11). And by implication, how much more will you succeed in the things of God if you cease from tagging your faith on an individual but on Jesus Christ? You will surely go much further!

Moses carrying the Ten Commandment tablets

For to insist on the ministration of the law is to seek to remain blind folded and therefore can't have a clear view of the spiritual blessing we have in Jesus. That the Israelites covered their faces and could not look in Moses' eyes when he descended from the Mt. Sinai with the Ten Commandments tablets should no longer be held in glory to us who are in Christ (2Corinthians 3:12-13). 

The veil (which covered the Israelites to avoid looking Moses in the face so as to avoid the rays from his shining eyes) still does cover whoever relishes the ministration of the law (2Corinthians 3:14-15). That veil can't be for our spiritual well being. For the mind of such one is blinded so that even when Jesus (by His death) removed that veil (and rose from the dead on the third day), they insist to remain blind to the blessing we receive in Jesus. That veil is until to date on their hearts. Yet that veil should now be done away with that we are in Christ.

The love of Jesus versus the condemnation of the law

That Jesus came, there should be no more spiritual bondage. To insist on the ministration of the law is to seek to keep unsuspecting innocent souls in spiritual blackout and with their hands tied behind their backs. Yet where the Spirit of God is, there is liberty (2Corinthians 3:17). 

So, as a leader in a Christ Church, it is mistaken for you to seek to have a shining of the ministration of the law (as Moses was) so as to restrict people from seeing beyond you. For the ministration of the law hides the state of the inner man, but the spirit searches in the deepest inside of us (1Corinthians 2:10-16). 

For the order of the priesthood of the OT, more so of Moses which was but for condemnation is no more. Yet there is assured mercy and grace in the new order of our High Priest in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-15). That is; desist from being a Christian servant and seek to remain in the order of the Moses Priesthood. Do not seek to keep the souls Jesus has set free in continual slavery. For the law is about what God demands, but grace entails what God provides.

So, if Christ has dealt with this, is it you who wants to condition people's faith to yourself? That if you are not, so one's faith is not? We are only by faith in Christ the Savior (Hebrews 10:38), (Habakkuk 2:4), (Galatians 3:11), (Romans 1:17).

Recall that when Jesus gave up the ghost, the separating veil in the temple was torn in between from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). Jesus grants us spiritual freedom. We are because of Jesus (Matthew 1:21), (Colossians 1:13; 2:6-15), (1 Thessalonians 1:10), (Hebrews 12:2). For Jesus is the cornerstone (Matthew 21:42).

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WHAT PROVES ONE A TRUE SERVANT OF GOD?

2 Kings 1:12
But Elijah answered them, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty." Then the fire of God came down from heaven and consumed him and his fifty".

If one performs a miracle or prophesies and it comes to pass, should this be enough proof one is a true servant of God?

As if when Elijah replied to the captain that if I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume thee with your fifty (2 Kings 1:12), he wanted to prove he was a man of God?

So, it is a proven fact that a spectrum of people would love to be proven they are servants of God by way of having miracles performed in their hands.

Jesus taught that; "Unless you see miracles and wonders, you will never believe" (John 4:48). But He also cautioned that when the evil one comes, he will work spectacular, miraculous signs and perform wonderful things, and he shall deceive, if possible the very elect (Matthew 24:24).

What then proves one is a true servant of God?

Not every servant of God is to be proven by possessing powers to perform miracles and wonders. For according to scripture, we aren't all gifted the same. Not even when are we gifted the same, that we follow the same pattern. Say if we are all gifted as prophets, how each prophesies can never be similar to how another does/did it. So, each one has been called in a unique way.

For consider that the prophets of the Bible days can be categorized as Messianic prophets and non-Messianic prophets. For example; well as Isaiah was a Messianic prophet, Jeremiah was never such a prophet. So, upon this, each one ought to follow the pattern how we have been called, but how we would want to be called (1Corinthians 12:28).

Yet despite all this, it is pretty clear that everybody is craving to have a miracle or wonder performed in their hands (many a time much in disregard of what calling they are). For all seem to think it is only when you perform a miracle or a wonder that you are affirmed an indisputable servant of God.

A servant in the body of Christ begins with being Christian. With that then, one is only proven a servant of God if they are Christian. He (a servant) must have faith in the one in whose name he is to serve. It is thus much more important to live first as a child of God before we are servants. That is; to be Christian should supersede anything else.

The key factor therefore is being Christian or Born Again for that matter. For Heaven is only accessible by way of being Born Again and not by way of being servants. But if we are to be servants, we have to be servants of Christ Jesus for that matter.

Every human needs Christ

Character testifies we are for Christ, and not ministry (Matthew 7:15-20). Rather, it is not that we are servants that we are justified. We are justified because we have surrendered to Christ. For it is one thing to be called to serve, it is another to be proven to be a servant of God.

Before He performed a single miracle, Jesus had to be proven a servant of God. He was baptized and thereafter, He was led to the mountain to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1-11), (Luke 4:1-13). This was an approval process. Thus to say; the calling is not an end in itself. 

A servant must be proven he is a servant. For the calling is not only in the spiritual, but in all areas of our lives. Many people who have been called to serve have failed to reach their predestined heights simply because they fear or don't want to go through the approval process. 

At one time, we were sinners and already condemned. We are only saved by the unceasing grace of God through His Son Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:5-8). If you are ware that you are saved but by God's grace, then you are pretty much on the right way. For our calling can only be shaped just how God has called us.

Short of knowing and understanding the fact that we are saved but by God's abundant grace, you will always be faced with struggles in your Christian life and ministry. For you ought to note that just as you are only saved by the grace of God, so are you a servant of God only by God's grace and appointment (1Timothy 1:12), (Ephesians 3:7), (Colossians 1:25), (Romans 1:1). There is no one Christian, or servant of God for that matter ever had the right, ever deserved it, or ever merited it to be what they are if it is not for God's grace through Jesus Christ His Son.

Resist conceit

It is important that as servants, (more so as Christians) to desist from conceit. For there should be not the slightest reason for any one to be conceited because none could have ever done a thing to save a zero soul. For the proof that we are servants of God is by humility and not by over perceiving ourselves. For humility breaks walls but pride isolates us.

As a servant of God, you must consider that you are nothing more than that (1Corinthians 3:1-11, 3:5, 4:7). Desist from being conceited (Galatians 6:3), (1Corithians 8:2), (1Timothy 3:6, 6:3-4), (Romans 12:16). Subject yourself to love to learn more and you will be getting yourself better than if you limit yourself to who you are.

For the process of proof demands that we desist from corrupting God's word and from being self seekers (2Corinthians 2:15-17). For it is by adhering unto the truth of the word that you are a sweet savor of Christ.

In this then, a prophet is no more than a teacher of the word. For by character, we are proven and not by the calling (1Timothy 3:1-13), (Titus 1:7-9).

Scripture likens us in Christ to the different parts of the human body (Romans 12:4-9), (Ephesians 4:11), (1Corinthians 12:12-20). That just as every single body part has its own function it plays, so are we in Christ.

The hand can't do the walking, the ear can't do the talking. And it is that every part of the body will only function how it is designed. The source of confusion is in one body part seeking to function how it is not designed. This is the source of endless conflicts in Church.

Why are the two gifts (miracles and prophecy) so craven for and so attractive?

The two gifts are fiercely craven for because they are about real life matters. For we all love to see our lives improve in literal terms and whoever gives hope they will stands a chance to draw much of one's attention. A healing miracle for example, or financial breakthrough for that matter can be a cracker.

It indeed it is of God that a miracle is performed. But Jesus taught that; what is at hand is to save the soul and all the rest are simply additions (Mark 8:36), (Luke 12:16-21), (Matthew 16:26; 6:33). For a man's life is not in the abundance of the things he possesses (Luke 12:15).

Yet Jesus Himself performed miracles. So the issue is not the miracles per Se, for they a sign that God is, but they are never an end in themselves. For that, we should not be working for miracles, but that we have the hope of eternal life. For our hope in Christ should never only be placed in the perishable things of this world (1Corinthians 15:19).

Jesus Christ came to save the soul and not the perishable flesh as it may intend to be perceived. According to Jesus, we should not rejoice because we perform miracles, but because our names are written in the book of life (Luke 10:17-20). For if miracles had been an end in themselves, all the people of Jesus days should have believed in and Him. But they did not, because it is not all about miracles, but faith in Christ Jesus.

Many Bible servants of God can give us a clear view. Take for example the case of the Prophet Jeremiah. There is no literal miracle I know of which was performed in the hands of the Prophet Jeremiah. Yet he is indeed a proven man of God.

Take also the case of John the Baptist. Is there literally any life miracle that was ever performed in the hands of John the Baptist? Yet crowds followed him to the deserts despite the miserable life he literally lived. Jesus testified of John the Baptist that he was such a precious and lovely servant of God, yet the least in heaven is greater than John (Luke 7:24-30). As that, despite having not been seen perform a miracle, John is an indisputable servant of God.

 What is most important?

Character is paramount, and not the ministry thereof. Jesus loves us for the soul, and not for the perishable body. It is even wiser to approve yourself a servant of God before seeking to be approved by others (Galatians 1:10), (Ephesians 4:1), (2Corinthians 6:3-10).

Yet you should never labor to please men but God (John 5:44). Desist from laboring to please anybody but work tirelessly to be proven a servant of God In the same vein, present yourself to those you have been called to serve (2Timothy 2:15). 

A servant is no more than his master (Matthew 10:24), (John 13:16, 15:20). For a servant (regardless of what calling they are) is simply a steward, and which is but only by God's grace (1Corithians 4:1-2), (2Corinthians 3:1-6, 4:5), (Luke 17:7-10). It would therefore only be prestigious to have a miracle performed in one's hands if that is what their calling/anointing is.

So, it is God who makes us acceptable to everybody. And that is how we keep to the right path. Otherwise, one should be content with the calling wherewith they have been called and desist from stage managing. If you insist to carry on stage managing, be made to know that you are not at all helping yourself but tarnishing both yourself and the calling thereof.

Conclusively then, what is at hand is you having embraced Jesus Christ and consequently a Christian and not a servant. A true Christian servant should much more importantly be a true Christian. As that, your pride should come from being a true Christian much more than being a servant. Are you such a person?

For if I have been used mightily, if I have moved mountains, raised the dead, healed the sick and have wrestled giants down but with no assurance to the resurrection of eternal life, of what meaning is that to me? (1Corinthians 15:32). It surely makes no meaning to have a great name but all ends up with that. The supreme promise is only that of eternal life and not the great name I assume upon how I have mightily been used.

Have you had a miracle performed in your hands? Was it so because you are such a faithful servant? No not at all. How are you a servant of God? Whichever way, you are no more than unfaithful servant.

For what is it about? Is it the miracle or the truth? What are we servants for? Are we servants for miracles or for the truth? Do you have answers to these questions? Well, I do. For we are not servants for miracles and wonders but for the truth. The truth is Jesus Christ who is our only hope of resurrection.

Scripture is rather clear that we are proven by living exemplary lives, and being equipped with the knowledge of the word of God and not by performing miracles and signs (2Timothy 2:1-5, 2:14-15). For though they can be as good, miracles and signs are but for the hard heartened and the non-believers (1Corinthians 1:22).

For take a closer look at the character of the people who asked Jesus for miracles and signs, and the reasons for which they did ask for those miracles and signs. They more often than not did so to tempt Jesus rather than to believe Him (Matthew12:38-41). It is on this fact that many believers (who have not been rooted in the gospel) have rather been swayed by the uncontrollable greed for miracles and wonders (no matter where from and how they are done).

For that you speak God's word, that you speak life and hope in people's lives can be just enough. Do you notice that the people of Nineveh did not need to see miracles and signs to dress in sackcloth and break down in tears of repentance? (Jonah 3). The word of God spoken by Jonah was just as good to change lives. The word of God can be effective even when not accompanied with miracles and signs. Just keep steadfast in it.

Jesus Christ is the spine of our faith. Rather to seek to be like Elijah who called fire from heaven and it did come, or to seek to be like Peter who witnessed the death of Ananias and Sapphira, it would be more edifying, and of more spiritual profit to seek to be like Jesus whose record is clear and free of sin.

For much as he called the fire from heaven and indeed it did come and burnt up the captain and his fifty, we can't say this was the best way Elijah was to demonstrate the anointing upon his life.

For many Christians who have not labored to envisage Jesus' mission still relish that we can have a prophet (in these days of the New Testament of grace) after the manner of Elijah. Yet for the days of a prophet after the manner of Elijah and the character thereof will not come again.

Elijah commands fire from heaven

When Jesus was faced with the same challenge as Elijah was, and He was asked to do the same in a similar manner as Elijah had done, He declined it and said He hadn't come to destroy men's life but to save it (Luke 9:52-56). Meaning God's power is but to save life. For the spirit of Satan is but to destroy, but the where there is the Spirit of God, there is liberty (2Corinthians 3:17).

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THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS

The blood of Jesus is the price for the remission of sin. For by the shedding of the spotless blood of Jesus, it is made possible for us to repent and are instantly forgiven. The blood of Jesus creates a way for us to escape eternal death.

The blood of Jesus is one of the three components which make salvation of human kind a reality. Among the three components are the following;

• The person of Jesus

• The blood of Jesus

• The Cross. 

All these three are indispensable for Christianity. Yet the person of Jesus is at the center of them all. Meaning without Jesus, blood and the cross become groundless. For if the cross and the blood are, they are because of Jesus. Yet Jesus required them if to make salvation a reality.

In general terms, the significance of blood can be traced back in the Old Testament. It is so important that it was forbidden to eat it (Leviticus 7:27), (Genesis 9:4), (Deuteronomy 12:23).

For in blood is the life of the flesh (Leviticus 17:11-14). When an animal was slaughtered, blood had to pour out of it or it had to be collected in a vessel and presented at the altar.

In this, besides the beatings and the subsequent Crucifixion, the blood of Jesus had to pour out in a similar manner when He was pierced in the ribs (John 19:33-34). For by letting it flow signifies that as it flows, it washes and cleanses away the sin. For this was pretty significant for the remission of sin.

The blood of animals was used simply to cover upon sin (atonement). Why so? For man had sinned and his blood was equally infested. You can never use dirt to cleanse away dirt.

On the other hand, the blood of animals was cleaner and would be an acceptable option to God. Yet animals lacked in measure with humans and their blood equally could never wash away sin as does the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:4). Yet the use of animals as a tool for atonement was always significant, right from the fall of man. For you can recall that God covered Adam and Eve with animal skin (Genesis 3:21).

It thus required Jesus the Son of God whose blood is the blood of God. The blood of God is pure. Thus to say; the blood of Jesus speaks better than the blood of Abel (Hebrews 12:24).

For the blood of Abel only spoke for itself, because it lacks in the quality that the blood of Jesus is., but that of Jesus speaks for all. Whatever amount of blood, it would have never equated to the blood of Jesus. It never requires much of it, but the quality of it. The blood of Jesus has all it takes.

But further to that; the blood of Jesus is so significant in the Christian faith because it surpasses and sums up all the animal sacrifices which had to be made for individual families or persons every after a period of time at Jerusalem (Hebrews 9:12).

With the blood of Jesus, it doesn't matter poor or rich, it doesn't matter wherever. It only matters calling on His name and right away; Jesus Himself, His blood, and the cross will directly apply in you (Romans 3:25), (Ephesians 1:7).

So, much as it can all be said to be blood, and look more or less like so; the blood of Jesus benefits everybody everywhere. It continues to flow endlessly to save every individual who calls on the name of Jesus (Hebrews 10:3-14). For this is how possible Jesus has made it that everybody everywhere is made a child of God with no struggle at all and at barely no cost. If it wasn't for Jesus, countless of souls would have been destined to eternal condemnation and eventual eternal spiritual death.

Nonetheless, in additional terms; we learn the following from the blood of Jesus;

It seals and signifies God's new covenant which had been prophesied in the Old Testament (Jeremiah 31:31). This is further affirmed by the writer of Hebrews (Hebrews 10:16).

Yet more significantly, the same is confirmed by Jesus Himself (Luke 22:20), (Matthew 26:28). Thus to say; without the blood of Jesus, there wouldn't have been such a covenant.

It is the new covenant which makes it possible for the gentiles to become children of God. For whoever draws near God through His Son Jesus Christ becomes a child of God (John 1:12-13). We only become children of God by the blood of Jesus.

The blood of Jesus brings God's life in us and in all this, the pattern of the Old Testament was closely followed (Hebrews 13:11-12), (Revelation 1:5-6; 12:11; 7:14-17). Recall that the blood of Jesus is the blood of God. The blood of God is pure.

In opposition, though, the blood of man is infested with sin by way of being the offspring of the first man; Adam who rebelled against God. By this, man was counted spiritually dead. Man had been detached from God by sin. But the blood of Jesus makes it that by calling on the name of Jesus, the life of God is imputed on us. This is only made possible because of the blood of Jesus (Romans 3:25-26).

The blood of Jesus is the currency which God used to purchase His people back to Himself (Acts 20:28). For the devil had used shrewdness and treachery to get himself the allegiance and attention of man from God. No matter what this cost man, it was never an issue to the devil.

Yet it was pretty an issue to God. As that, much as the devil had lost nothing to get himself the attention and allegiance of man, God could have never done nothing to get him (man) back to Himself. This required to pour out not simply blood, but the divine blood of Jesus. His blood brings hope.

If salvation is (as surely it is), it is the blood of Jesus which makes it so. It is now a fact that man can have his sins washed and cleansed away. All because of the blood of Jesus.

There is power, healing, hope, deliverance etc in the blood of Jesus. What would we have done if Jesus had not come? Where would we be? That Jesus came and shed His blood, all such questions are satisfactorily answered.

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THE POWER OF THE TONGUE/WORDS

The power of words is immense and the Bible teaches so. God created the world with His word (Genesis 1). Jesus is also the word of God. Scripture tells us that; without Jesus, nothing would have ever been (John 1:1-3).

Words can be in three forms:

• Sound form, 

• Silent form

• Written form. 

But we are more intent on words in sound form than any other from. For a word in sound form can boomerang more than any other word. On this then, we may be compelled to use either "tongue" or "word" as need may be.

But it is not also an exaggeration to say; one could be saying much more in the heart than literally to sound it or write it. Yet whether in sound form, silent form, or written form, words can be lethal and deadly if used with little or no care.

The tongue or the mouth for that matter is one of the gate ways of human beings. And Jesus taught that what comes out of the mouth is simply an overflow of the heart (Matthew 15:11-18). For this is a vital part of any person.

Scripture instructs us not to be reckless with the tongue (Matthew 12:36). Scripture goes on to warn that; It is by our words that we will either be justified or condemned (Matthew 12:37). Why is it so? For every word everybody utters will be revealed on the day of judgment (Luke 12:2-3).

Upon this, I ought to consult my inner person before I utter a word. That is; I have to be careful with my utterances because I am held responsible for each word I do utter. I should not be chasing my words, they should rather be chasing me. For words speak my inner man, except for pretense or double standards. Even then, it is reckless to pretend and it is potentially condemnable.

Consider the case of one of the dearest but sometimes controversial disciple who is Peter. Despite having been one of the loveliest and mightily used disciples, it took him time to learn not to let his words fly out of his mouth unintentionally. For much as he is one person who was quick to get mysterious revelations of who Jesus is, he would equally easily put himself in a position to be easily made use of by the devil (Matthew 16:13-19).

Peter would not allow for meditation before he uttered a word. For immediately after having had the commendable revelation of who Jesus is, it is the same Peter (by his words) who tried to discourage Jesus from accomplishing His mission (Matthew 16:21-23). You realize that it was always Peter who would make rather unthoughtful responses (or had spearheaded it) than to mediate upon it.

Peter was always very quick to commit himself, but he was also very quick to deny he had said any such a thing. Recall when he spearheaded the commitment that he would never deny Jesus whatsoever (Matthew 26:35), (Mark 14:31). But Jesus having read the mind of Peter and that of his fellow disciples, He responded by telling Peter he would have denied Him three times before the cock crew (Matthew 26:34), (Luke 22:34), (Mark 14:30). And indeed it was so (Luke 22:54-62), (John 18:15-27), (Mark 14:66-72).

Why did Peter deny Jesus despite having committed never to forsake Him (Jesus)? It had not been with Peter's intention that he had said it. Rather Peter did not mean it and it was not planted in his heart. It only flew out of Peter's mouth and he had to chase it so he could limit the damage. Many of us Christians would or have found ourselves in such situations. Making many mistakes in speech because we lack patience to meditate before we utter a thing.

But we also learn the lesson how long it takes us to realize we are giving the devil an opportunity to use us. Consider for example that it took Peter a while to realize he was making empty commitments. He was only lucky that Jesus had given him an indicator if he had not kept his (Peter's) commitment. Peter had an opportunity to repent, it may not be so to another (Matthew 26:75). For it is all a matter of unthoughtful talk. 

With seeming mere words, the devil deceptively convinced Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit. With the same seemingly mere words, Eve convinced Adam to eat of it as well (Genesis 3). What seemed to be simple mere words have since brought suffering to the whole world.

Take for another example the case of the prophet Elijah and Ahab's wife Jezebel. Elijah was a mighty man of God. He performed one miracle after the other.  Elijah commanded that there was no rain in Israel for three years and it was indeed so (1Kings 17:1). Mark you, he re-affirmed it by saying; "as my word is". He was being fed by the ravens (1Kings 17:2-6).

Elijah prophesied food in the widow's house. After having had no hope but to eat the least they had and die, they had enough upon Elijah's prophecy (1Kings 17:1-15).

He called fire from Heaven and indeed it did, and burnt the sacrifice at Mt. Carmel (1Kings 18:25-38). Elijah also called for fire from Heaven and indeed it did descend and burnt the captains and their fifties (2Kings 1:10). All these miracles were performed in the hands of the prophet Elijah and they do confirm that he was indeed a proven man of God.

Yet a simple written threat from Jezebel scared Elijah even to seem to forget how mightily God had previously used him (1Kings 19:1-2). Elijah ran away in fear (1Kings 19:3-10). Much as one may stand to castigate Elijah for not having taken himself as a serious and mighty man of God, we can't miss to learn the lesson how seemingly mere words can totally change the whole perception. Words can be this powerful as not to remember a thing of yourself.

Elisha was another man of God who we could say never took his words seriously, or if  he did take them seriously, then he must have been that careless. For because children had made a comment of his baldhead, he cursed them and indeed two bears came out of the bush and tore forty two of them (1kings 2:23-24). More over, he did so in the name of the Lord. Additionally, he cursed Gehaz his servant and indeed Gezaz developed leprosy instantly (2Kings 5). For words can be as much as what a person is.

Faith comes by the word of God
 
Scripture tells us that; "...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). If to say; the word spoken may be figured as the spear that penetrates the mind and the heart. Yet in opposite terms, lack of faith also comes by hearing the negative word for that matter.

Salvation comes by confession of the name of Jesus

For with seeming mere words, salvation presents (Romans 10:10). Thus to say, to be saved is and should not be out of wrestle, for what appears so simplistic is what brings us the much treasured priceless gift of eternal life.

The Roman centurion

Scripture also tells us about the Roman centurion who begged Jesus to heal his servant. Jesus had insisted on getting to the centurion's home. But the centurion insisted that; Jesus' word would be enough to heal his servant.

Upon this, Jesus was amazed at the centurion's immense faith and did as he (the centurion) had asked (Matthew 8:5-10). A lot more miracles Jesus did perform with just saying; let it be, and it was. All this tells us how powerful words are.

Thus then, words should not be used recklessly because they could produce unintended and undesirable consequences. Or rather they should be used carefully, and they should be well intentioned.

Still then, scripture is clear about how we ought to be careful with the use of the tongue. The tongue is the outlet or the passage out of every being.

For not  to say something could be better than saying a thing because it is easier to stumble in word than if you held yourself (James 3:1-2). It is the tongue which bridles the whole body. A pilot controls a large ship with a seeming simple rudder. In a similar manner therefore, the tongue controls one's entire body.

A little match stick fire could set a large forest on fire. Similarly so, the reckless use of the tongue could set the entire body on fire in hell because it controls the entire body (James 3:5-6). On this then, it calls for extra care how one uses the tongue.

In simple language then, we ought to train and learn to use the tongue profitably. Not to say a thing with little or no care at all. We must avoid to say a thing unwillingly. But if to say something, it must be willful. Rather it should be well intentioned. That is not to say whatever and wherever (Leviticus 19:16). For in a multitude of words, sin may be unavoidable (Proverbs 10:19). David prays that God sets guards on his lips (Psalms 141:3), (Psalms 19:14).

Life and death is in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). A good soft answer can save one from danger, but rough words will stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1), (Proverbs 13:3).

Proverbs 10:20-21  
The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.  The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
 
Proverbs 10:31-32  
The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.  The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.
 
Proverbs 11:9  
An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

Proverbs 11:11  
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

Proverbs 12:6  
The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

Proverbs 12:13-14  
The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.  A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

Proverbs 12:18-19  
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.  The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
 
Proverbs 13:2-3  
A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.  He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
 
Proverbs 15:4  
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

Proverbs 15:7  
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

Proverbs 15:26  
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

Proverbs 16:13  
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

Proverbs 16:24  
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

Proverbs 16:29-30  
A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.  He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
 
Proverbs 17:20  
He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.

Proverbs 18:4  
The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

Proverbs 18:7  
A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

Proverbs 20:15  
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel

Proverbs 22:11  
He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

Proverbs 25:11  
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

Proverbs 26:28  
A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.


Proverbs 5:1-4
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.

Proverbs 6:1-5
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.

Proverbs 8:1-9
Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud: To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge.

Proverbs 9:7-9
Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.

Proverbs 10:8
The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.

Proverbs 10:19-21
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment
.
Proverbs 11:9
With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape.

Proverbs 11:12-13
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.

Proverbs 12:1
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.

Proverbs 12:6
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.

Proverbs 12:14
From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.

Proverbs 12:15
The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.

Proverbs 12:18
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 12:19
Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

Proverbs 12:22
The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.

Proverbs 12:25
An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.

Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.

Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.

Proverbs 13:10
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

Proverbs 13:13
He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded.

Proverbs 13:14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.

Proverbs 13:18
He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.

Proverbs 13:20
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.

Proverbs 14:3
A fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.

Proverbs 14:7
Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips.

Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

Proverbs 15:4
The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

Proverbs 15:10
Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.

Proverbs 15:12
A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.
 
Proverbs 15:28
The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

Proverbs 15:31-32
He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.

Proverbs 16:23
A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.

Proverbs 16:27-28
A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.

Proverbs 17:4
A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue.

Proverbs 17:27
A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.

Proverbs 18:2
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.

Proverbs 18:6-8
A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.

Proverbs 18:20-21
From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.

Proverbs 19:1-2
Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse. It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.

Proverbs 20:19
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.

Proverbs 21:11
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.

Proverbs 21:23
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.

Proverbs 23:9
Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.

Proverbs 24:1-2
Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.

Proverbs 24:28
Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive.

Proverbs 25:11-12
A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.

Proverbs 26:4-5
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

Proverbs 26:7
Like a lame man’s legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

Proverbs 26:9
Like a thorn bush in a drunkard’s hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

Proverbs 26:22
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.

Proverbs 26:23-25
Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.

Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.

Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

Proverbs 28:23
He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue.

Proverbs 29:1
A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed– without remedy.

Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

Proverbs 30:5-6
Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.

Proverbs 30:10-11
Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it. There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers;

Have you labored to find out why your word no longer carries as much weight? For many a time when God has granted us the power to make our word effective, we have tended to use it to effect and express our selfish pride.

Consider that much as our Master who is Jesus kept on desisting from cursing but to bless (with the power in His word), those who believe in Him and pray in His name would love to use the same power they have assumed in God to express their selfish pride and ego which is only but to destroy.

The two disciples James and John had urged Jesus to call fire from heaven because they hadn't been received well amongst the Samaritans (Luke 9:53-54). Jesus having come to save rather than to destroy, He did not fulfill their selfish wishes.

As that, it is indeed true that the devil can take advantage of God's power in us (which should be but for God's work) to destroy than to give life (Luke 9:55-56). Jesus did not use a single bit of the power of His word to curse or to destroy. He knew His word carried power and He thus used it carefully and constructively. Will you use your words carefully and constructively? If you will, then be assured of God's power on your tongue.

Peter used the power of his tongue to effect the death of Ananias and his wife Sapphira (Acts 5:1-10). Well as many people would argue that it was in response to Ananias' unfaithfulness. But who is without sin? He who is without sin, let him be the first to cast a stone (John 8:7).

Do you recall that if Peter had strictly and closely been judged, he would have never made it? Peter was because he had been given time to transform. Couldn't he have better counseled Ananias than to castigate him? For Ananias and Sapphira died on the permission of Peter.

Do you realize that God would love to consult with many of us (His servants) (just as He consulted with Abraham before He destroyed Sodom Gomorrah) before He does a thing.

Abraham interceded that Sodom and Gomorrah be spared (Genesis 18:16-33). But to many of us, much of our opinion would be dictated by our selfish satanic emotions which are but to destroy.

It would only be a display of our continued selfish intentions. One would relish having such power as to have their word effected no matter what results it brings. God loves to give us His power to save rather than to destroy.

The entire human being is to be treasured. For it is equally important that we keep a pure heart, control the mind and become wholesome. For consider that it is not only what you have or haven't said loudly. Take for example that while you haven't said it, but in your heart, it is well known both to you and to God that you have said it.

Upon this, it is equally inexcusable to have imagined it even when not loudly sounded it. For to speak is simply an expression or the fruit of who exactly one is. Rather it is simply an overflow of what one is in their heart.

What matters then is the source from which it comes. Jesus taught that even when you do not seem to have literally done it, it is already counted as sin (Matthew 5:28). As that, to be wholesome is to bear the fruit of the Spirit. In this case, much more so the fruit of "self control" (Galatians 5:22-23).

For much as all the rest rather selfishly used the power in their word to curse, Jesus used the power in the same to save and bless. This is how Jesus is immensely the true Savior who was promised to us. Desist from chasing words. Let words chase you. INTEND IT WHEN YOU TALK.

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