Are there unbelievers in the church?
Welcome back
to my blog. Thank you for taking time to read it.
We have
started a series on discovering exciting research findings from Teleios! A list
of potential benefits in the Bible as shown by Teleios research is found on our
home page of our website (www.teleiosresearch.com).
started a series on discovering exciting research findings from Teleios! A list
of potential benefits in the Bible as shown by Teleios research is found on our
home page of our website (www.teleiosresearch.com).
Today let’s
look at the compelling findings of a recent survey Teleios performed that
explored the incidence of tares in the church. A tare is a plant that resembles wheat but
cannot be correctly identified until harvest; so, Jesus’ term means those who
appear as a Christian, but really are not true believers. Please read last week’s
blog which discussed this fascinating topic.
look at the compelling findings of a recent survey Teleios performed that
explored the incidence of tares in the church. A tare is a plant that resembles wheat but
cannot be correctly identified until harvest; so, Jesus’ term means those who
appear as a Christian, but really are not true believers. Please read last week’s
blog which discussed this fascinating topic.
To investigate
the incidence of tares in the church, we performed a survey of users of the
Instagram account, Instapray, often visited by young adult Christians. In total,
1526 individuals participated and 73% described themselves as evangelicals.
Just over half had at least some college education and the average age was 23.
the incidence of tares in the church, we performed a survey of users of the
Instagram account, Instapray, often visited by young adult Christians. In total,
1526 individuals participated and 73% described themselves as evangelicals.
Just over half had at least some college education and the average age was 23.
The key
finding in the survey was that while 94% of participants, when prompted by the
correct answer, indicated they were saved by grace, while only 16% (78%
difference) had the confidence in the knowledge of their salvation to provide a
correct answer without a written prompt. Was there a difference in the personal
characteristics of the confident group of individuals who indicated without
prompting they are saved by grace?
finding in the survey was that while 94% of participants, when prompted by the
correct answer, indicated they were saved by grace, while only 16% (78%
difference) had the confidence in the knowledge of their salvation to provide a
correct answer without a written prompt. Was there a difference in the personal
characteristics of the confident group of individuals who indicated without
prompting they are saved by grace?
Participants
who most confidently identified themselves as saved by grace:
who most confidently identified themselves as saved by grace:
- Adhered
more closely to the practice of their faith (prayer, praise, fellowship,
outreach, Bible study, sharing the Gospel) - Had greater
confidence in the security of their salvation - Indicated
better personal general wellbeing but also specific measures of wellbeing
such as: contentment, peace, joy and purpose - Enjoyed
reduced guilt levels
The Teleios
survey reflects wonderfully how knowing and believing God’s word can impact a
person’s wellbeing. Scripture indicates that our great salvation is by faith
alone (Ephesians 2:8-9) and those who understand this well enough to confess it
without prompting, as well was believing that it cannot be lost, on average
enjoy better wellbeing.
survey reflects wonderfully how knowing and believing God’s word can impact a
person’s wellbeing. Scripture indicates that our great salvation is by faith
alone (Ephesians 2:8-9) and those who understand this well enough to confess it
without prompting, as well was believing that it cannot be lost, on average
enjoy better wellbeing.
Participants
who most confidently identified themselves as saved by grace also indicated
they had less feelings of guilt. The reduced guilt levels might have resulted by
this group’s better understanding of the complete sufficiency of Christ’s forgiveness
and that there is no sin so horrendous for which Christ’s precious sacrifice
did not atone. Indeed, what a great Savior we have who provides for us every
benefit not only to salvation but also a mentally healthy life!
who most confidently identified themselves as saved by grace also indicated
they had less feelings of guilt. The reduced guilt levels might have resulted by
this group’s better understanding of the complete sufficiency of Christ’s forgiveness
and that there is no sin so horrendous for which Christ’s precious sacrifice
did not atone. Indeed, what a great Savior we have who provides for us every
benefit not only to salvation but also a mentally healthy life!
Summary: This Teleios
survey suggests that if a young adult who identifies themselves as evangelical
can express confidently that they are saved by grace, and actively practice
their faith, they may possess higher levels of wellbeing than those who do not.
More results are on the Teleios website at: http://stage.teleiosresearch.com/index.php/gospel-survey/.
survey suggests that if a young adult who identifies themselves as evangelical
can express confidently that they are saved by grace, and actively practice
their faith, they may possess higher levels of wellbeing than those who do not.
More results are on the Teleios website at: http://stage.teleiosresearch.com/index.php/gospel-survey/.
Thanks for
visiting my blog today. I’ll look for you again next week.
visiting my blog today. I’ll look for you again next week.
WC
Stewart
Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
What is a tare and why is that a big deal?
Welcome back to my blog. Thank you for taking time to read it.
We have started a series on the exciting research findings from
Teleios! A list of potential benefits is found on our home page of our website
(www.teleiosresearch.com). Today let us explore the incidence of “tares” in the church.
Teleios! A list of potential benefits is found on our home page of our website
(www.teleiosresearch.com). Today let us explore the incidence of “tares” in the church.
Christ promised in Matthew 13 that there would be tares in the
church. A
tare is a plant that resembles wheat but cannot be correctly identified until
harvest); so,
Jesus’ term means those who appear as a Christian, but really are not true
believers. Christ indicated tares would be difficult to differentiate from true
believers until the end times. Nonetheless, since the church includes
unbelievers, we should try our best to discern their identity so we might help
them come to faith (1 John 2-4).
church. A
tare is a plant that resembles wheat but cannot be correctly identified until
harvest); so,
Jesus’ term means those who appear as a Christian, but really are not true
believers. Christ indicated tares would be difficult to differentiate from true
believers until the end times. Nonetheless, since the church includes
unbelievers, we should try our best to discern their identity so we might help
them come to faith (1 John 2-4).
We investigated the potential incidence and effect of tares in the
church by surveying users of the Instagram account, Instapray, often visited by
young adult Christians. In total, 1526 individuals participated and 73%
described themselves as evangelicals. Just over half had at least some college
education and the average age was 23.
church by surveying users of the Instagram account, Instapray, often visited by
young adult Christians. In total, 1526 individuals participated and 73%
described themselves as evangelicals. Just over half had at least some college
education and the average age was 23.
We evaluated the potential incidence of tares by asking
participants how they were saved in a multiple-choice question which included no
responses indicating ‘saved by grace’. To answer the question correctly the
participant had to choose ‘other’ and supply the correct answer.
participants how they were saved in a multiple-choice question which included no
responses indicating ‘saved by grace’. To answer the question correctly the
participant had to choose ‘other’ and supply the correct answer.
The second question then asked respondents if they were ‘saved by
grace through faith alone.’ After seeing this participants could not return to
the prior question and change their answer.
grace through faith alone.’ After seeing this participants could not return to
the prior question and change their answer.
Interestingly, in the first question only 25% knew the correct
response was not available and supplied an answer under ‘other’. Of these,
approximately 60% included some statement regarding being ‘saved by grace or
faith without works’, approximately 16% of the total survey population.
response was not available and supplied an answer under ‘other’. Of these,
approximately 60% included some statement regarding being ‘saved by grace or
faith without works’, approximately 16% of the total survey population.
In contrast, the second question, which provided the right answer
as a choice, was selected by 95% of participants. These two questions created a
spread of 16% – 95% (79% difference) between those who could express salvation by
grace without a written prompt versus having to read the correct answer.
as a choice, was selected by 95% of participants. These two questions created a
spread of 16% – 95% (79% difference) between those who could express salvation by
grace without a written prompt versus having to read the correct answer.
This is important to pastors and lay teachers because, it suggests
at a minimum, a significant percent of people identifying as church attending
evangelicals do not clearly and/or confidently understand their salvation; and
might be a tare. Additional survey questions found that these potential tares
often demonstrated several other attributes:
at a minimum, a significant percent of people identifying as church attending
evangelicals do not clearly and/or confidently understand their salvation; and
might be a tare. Additional survey questions found that these potential tares
often demonstrated several other attributes:
- Reduced
adherence to the Christian faith - Lower
levels of wellbeing - Greater
levels of guilt - Less
favorable opinions of church leadership
Why is this
information important? It may explain some of the difficulties in the modern church
in accomplishing efficient and effective ministry. We found through our prior
surveys that a significant minority of congregants come to church with
alternative agendas than a biblically based purpose which include reasons of especially
power and self-seeking attention.
information important? It may explain some of the difficulties in the modern church
in accomplishing efficient and effective ministry. We found through our prior
surveys that a significant minority of congregants come to church with
alternative agendas than a biblically based purpose which include reasons of especially
power and self-seeking attention.
If the church considers those with persistent
alternative agendas, may not actually be Christian, it might help the
leadership know how to help them. They need to hear the gospel! All the
attention and approbation in the world will not solve their problem. 1 John chapters 2-4 are clear that those who do not agree with the basic doctrine of Christ,
do not show love or obedience, other church membership should lovingly question
their salvation.
alternative agendas, may not actually be Christian, it might help the
leadership know how to help them. They need to hear the gospel! All the
attention and approbation in the world will not solve their problem. 1 John chapters 2-4 are clear that those who do not agree with the basic doctrine of Christ,
do not show love or obedience, other church membership should lovingly question
their salvation.
Thank you for joining me today. We’ll discover
more about the Tare survey results in next week’s blog. Please join me then.
more about the Tare survey results in next week’s blog. Please join me then.
WC Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
Wellbeing – extended, specific helps from scripture
Welcome back to my blog. Thank you for taking time to read it.
We have just started a new series on discovering exciting research
findings from Teleios! Our first evidence, presented over the last several
weeks, was that peer-reviewed and Teleios sponsored scientific studies support
improved wellbeing with Christianity in both healthy individuals and those
suffering with disease! A list of benefits is found on our home page of our
website (https://teleiosgrant.com/).
findings from Teleios! Our first evidence, presented over the last several
weeks, was that peer-reviewed and Teleios sponsored scientific studies support
improved wellbeing with Christianity in both healthy individuals and those
suffering with disease! A list of benefits is found on our home page of our
website (https://teleiosgrant.com/).
Today let us continue this exciting journey of the benefits of
scripture by exploring four specific markers for wellbeing in the medical
literature that also are noted in scripture: forgiveness, gratitude, hope and
empathy.1
scripture by exploring four specific markers for wellbeing in the medical
literature that also are noted in scripture: forgiveness, gratitude, hope and
empathy.1
This journey is important because God has
given us His wisdom to life and salvation through the scriptures for which we
can depend. Consequently, we have a bright light in our lives for which we can
have confidence over and above what is offered from society which scoffs at us.
We are right in what we believe.
given us His wisdom to life and salvation through the scriptures for which we
can depend. Consequently, we have a bright light in our lives for which we can
have confidence over and above what is offered from society which scoffs at us.
We are right in what we believe.
Importantly, the articles in the medical
literature describing these four characteristics of wellbeing do not
necessarily mention religion, even while recognizing their importance to health.
But this is vital information for believers because these characteristics are actually
based in scripture, as part of the benefit of our Christian walk and spiritual
fruit from the Spirit. Therefore, the basis of these four characteristics
originate is scripture and the medical literature recognizes their importance. In
contrast, these concepts are not generally emphasized in Greek, humanistic or
atheistic traditions.
literature describing these four characteristics of wellbeing do not
necessarily mention religion, even while recognizing their importance to health.
But this is vital information for believers because these characteristics are actually
based in scripture, as part of the benefit of our Christian walk and spiritual
fruit from the Spirit. Therefore, the basis of these four characteristics
originate is scripture and the medical literature recognizes their importance. In
contrast, these concepts are not generally emphasized in Greek, humanistic or
atheistic traditions.
Accordingly, we reviewed
the effect of forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy in the medical literature and they
improve an individual’s wellbeing. These helpful effects:
the effect of forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy in the medical literature and they
improve an individual’s wellbeing. These helpful effects:
· Were found from
pre-adolescent years to older adults.
pre-adolescent years to older adults.
· Demonstrated as a
positive influence among important societal issues including: social
relationships, delinquent behavior and physical health.
positive influence among important societal issues including: social
relationships, delinquent behavior and physical health.
Although our review
focused on the effect of forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy on the
individual themselves and not the effect on a recipient, we might speculate that
any increase in wellbeing among the evaluated individuals allowed also for a
greater sense of personal benefit to others.
focused on the effect of forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy on the
individual themselves and not the effect on a recipient, we might speculate that
any increase in wellbeing among the evaluated individuals allowed also for a
greater sense of personal benefit to others.
The source of the four
parameters (forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy) also were evaluated. The
results surprised us because only two primary sources were found in the
analyzed articles: training and religious faith.
parameters (forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy) also were evaluated. The
results surprised us because only two primary sources were found in the
analyzed articles: training and religious faith.
· Training – We found 3 of the 4
parameters could be taught, at least to some degree, through secular based training.
Hope has not been evaluated in a such a manner to our knowledge.
parameters could be taught, at least to some degree, through secular based training.
Hope has not been evaluated in a such a manner to our knowledge.
· Religious faith – A person’s
individual faith or their involvement in a community of believers, appeared
positively associated with these 4 measures. How the measure was derived was
not always clear. Perhaps the parameters could have developed from:
individual faith or their involvement in a community of believers, appeared
positively associated with these 4 measures. How the measure was derived was
not always clear. Perhaps the parameters could have developed from:
o
The
knowledge obtained from the scriptures
The
knowledge obtained from the scriptures
o
Through
self-learning
Through
self-learning
o
Sermons
Sermons
o
Through
interactions with church members
Through
interactions with church members
o
The
Holy Spirit building into us God’s character as we mature through His power
based on the Bible
The
Holy Spirit building into us God’s character as we mature through His power
based on the Bible
The religion was not
typically specified in these reports; however, almost all the studies were
performed in predominantly Christian countries. Therefore, we assume that most
of the participants were either nominally or seriously practicing Christians.
typically specified in these reports; however, almost all the studies were
performed in predominantly Christian countries. Therefore, we assume that most
of the participants were either nominally or seriously practicing Christians.
Our review of the
medical literature suggests that forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy may
improve general wellbeing, pro-social and positive relational behavior and
demonstrate positive health effects. These measures are biblical principles
that are built into us when we live a faithful Christian life.
medical literature suggests that forgiveness, gratitude, hope and empathy may
improve general wellbeing, pro-social and positive relational behavior and
demonstrate positive health effects. These measures are biblical principles
that are built into us when we live a faithful Christian life.
Please join me again next week as we continue to
review scientific data that supports our faith and helping us to have
confidence in the truth of the Bible.
review scientific data that supports our faith and helping us to have
confidence in the truth of the Bible.
WC Stewart
1. Stewart WC,
Reynolds KE, Jones LJ, Stewart JA, Nelson LA. The source and impact of specific
parameters that enhance well-being in daily life. J Rel Health
2016;55:1326-1335.
Reynolds KE, Jones LJ, Stewart JA, Nelson LA. The source and impact of specific
parameters that enhance well-being in daily life. J Rel Health
2016;55:1326-1335.
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
Teleios, Inc. All rights reserved.
Wow, Practicing Christianity Helps Wellbeing!
Welcome
back to my blog. Thank you for taking time to read it.
We are starting a new series on the exciting research findings from
Teleios! Our first evidence was that peer-reviewed scientific studies support
improved wellbeing with Christianity!
Teleios! Our first evidence was that peer-reviewed scientific studies support
improved wellbeing with Christianity!
Today
let us continue this journey through the benefits of scripture by
exploring scientific findings found at Teleios. Our data are important
because they extend the information on Christianity and wellbeing found in the
medical literature and might help you with your own life and Christian walk.
Please consider the following results from Teleios:
let us continue this journey through the benefits of scripture by
exploring scientific findings found at Teleios. Our data are important
because they extend the information on Christianity and wellbeing found in the
medical literature and might help you with your own life and Christian walk.
Please consider the following results from Teleios:
· General good wellbeing – Both college
students and adult Christians note high ratings for wellbeing. However, our
data are more specific to evangelicals1 whereas the medical
literature would include social Christians as well.
students and adult Christians note high ratings for wellbeing. However, our
data are more specific to evangelicals1 whereas the medical
literature would include social Christians as well.
· Evangelicals – This group has
better wellbeing than social Christians2 or Christians Seekers3.
better wellbeing than social Christians2 or Christians Seekers3.
· Evangelical and saved
by grace
– College students who self-describe as evangelical, but also saved by grace, profess
better wellbeing than evangelicals alone.
by grace
– College students who self-describe as evangelical, but also saved by grace, profess
better wellbeing than evangelicals alone.
· Evangelical, saved by
grace and adherent –
Evangelicals who indicate they are saved by grace, and adhere to their
Christian faith (i.e., practice the 5 tools to maturity: prayer, praise, fellowship,
Bible study and teaching others [Acts 2:42,47]) have even better wellbeing. In
one of our college surveys, not a single student who was characterized by being
evangelical, saved by grace and adherent, suffered poor wellbeing.
grace and adherent –
Evangelicals who indicate they are saved by grace, and adhere to their
Christian faith (i.e., practice the 5 tools to maturity: prayer, praise, fellowship,
Bible study and teaching others [Acts 2:42,47]) have even better wellbeing. In
one of our college surveys, not a single student who was characterized by being
evangelical, saved by grace and adherent, suffered poor wellbeing.
· Practicing the faith – In separate
research, Teleios demonstrated those who practice the Christian faith according
to Acts 2:32, 37, as noted above, enjoy better wellbeing than those who do not.
research, Teleios demonstrated those who practice the Christian faith according
to Acts 2:32, 37, as noted above, enjoy better wellbeing than those who do not.
o
Just a little helps – Even the practice of one to two of the
measures in Acts provides better wellbeing
Just a little helps – Even the practice of one to two of the
measures in Acts provides better wellbeing
o
More is better – Further, the more a person adheres to the
five tools to maturity, the better generally is their wellbeing.
More is better – Further, the more a person adheres to the
five tools to maturity, the better generally is their wellbeing.
o
Looking outward – Those learning and teaching the Bible
directly (verse by verse), and those serving in their church or community also
possess enhanced wellbeing.
Looking outward – Those learning and teaching the Bible
directly (verse by verse), and those serving in their church or community also
possess enhanced wellbeing.
· Eternal security – Those who are
confident in their salvation also note better wellbeing.
confident in their salvation also note better wellbeing.
So how
can we summarize the exciting information we have learned the past two weeks?
Christians generally have better wellbeing. Further, those who identify as evangelicals,
especially if they also indicate they are saved by grace, confident and their
salvation and practice the Christian faith, possess even better wellbeing! Wow,
great information for our lives.
can we summarize the exciting information we have learned the past two weeks?
Christians generally have better wellbeing. Further, those who identify as evangelicals,
especially if they also indicate they are saved by grace, confident and their
salvation and practice the Christian faith, possess even better wellbeing! Wow,
great information for our lives.
We have
such a wonderful God who cares and loves us, and has given us such wise
literature to help us navigate our time on earth. Join us again next week as we
continue to investigate scientifically based findings from Teleios.
such a wonderful God who cares and loves us, and has given us such wise
literature to help us navigate our time on earth. Join us again next week as we
continue to investigate scientifically based findings from Teleios.
1Evangelical Christian = An individual
saved by grace having been forgiven their sins through faith in Christ
saved by grace having been forgiven their sins through faith in Christ
2Social Christian = An individual who
identifies mostly with Christian culture or society while not being
overly religious
3Christian
Seeker = An individual seeking to know the truth about Christianity
identifies mostly with Christian culture or society while not being
overly religious
3Christian
Seeker = An individual seeking to know the truth about Christianity
WC
Stewart
Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Encircled by Evil? Encourage the GOOD! Part 2
Thank
you for visiting my blog. We are taking a quick break over two weeks from our
series exploring the exciting results of Teleios’ research to discuss the
intense cultural wars that Christians face.
Last
week we described our enemies, the evil forces (defined as one world
totalitarians, socialists and atheists) aligned against us. This week let us
discuss simple ways that Christians can fight against globalists attacking Christianity
and our culture.
week we described our enemies, the evil forces (defined as one world
totalitarians, socialists and atheists) aligned against us. This week let us
discuss simple ways that Christians can fight against globalists attacking Christianity
and our culture.
Whether
we choose to recognize it or not, we are in a huge battle for our culture and
for the future of our children. If we do not engage in this struggle, at least
at some level, we may doom subsequent generations to living under a tyrannical,
anti-Christian regime with its accompanying loss of religious, political and
economic freedom.
we choose to recognize it or not, we are in a huge battle for our culture and
for the future of our children. If we do not engage in this struggle, at least
at some level, we may doom subsequent generations to living under a tyrannical,
anti-Christian regime with its accompanying loss of religious, political and
economic freedom.
Therefore,
Christians should energetically enter this fight with some part of their lives!
With all of us working together, and the help of our almighty God, we can
change our culture for good! How can we do this in a practical and doable way?
Here are some thoughts.
Christians should energetically enter this fight with some part of their lives!
With all of us working together, and the help of our almighty God, we can
change our culture for good! How can we do this in a practical and doable way?
Here are some thoughts.
· We are right – Realize that you
are correct in what you offer society. For too long Christians have cowered
in the face of a supposed all accepting, diversity-loving society. They made us
feel guilty by defining us as narrow and judgmental.
are correct in what you offer society. For too long Christians have cowered
in the face of a supposed all accepting, diversity-loving society. They made us
feel guilty by defining us as narrow and judgmental.
Now all pretense is off! It is obvious that
they were suppressing us by guilt and intimidation while taking control of
society to usher in a tyrannical, anti-Christian globalists government.
they were suppressing us by guilt and intimidation while taking control of
society to usher in a tyrannical, anti-Christian globalists government.
What we offer in biblical wisdom has been
shown by Teleios research, and others, to provide excellent wellbeing and
enhanced service to society. In contrast to the hatred, violence, vitriol, and
Orwellian control from the globalists; why would we ever think that what we
offer to society is not substantially better?
shown by Teleios research, and others, to provide excellent wellbeing and
enhanced service to society. In contrast to the hatred, violence, vitriol, and
Orwellian control from the globalists; why would we ever think that what we
offer to society is not substantially better?
· Prepare – Learn God’s
valuable word and to articulate its advantages in your conversations with
others. At the very minimum learn the gospel and other key advantages of Christianity.
If helpful, use the home page of the Teleios website which presents the gospel
in a succinct form and numerous linked infographics and studies as why we are
correct (www.teleiosresearch.com).
valuable word and to articulate its advantages in your conversations with
others. At the very minimum learn the gospel and other key advantages of Christianity.
If helpful, use the home page of the Teleios website which presents the gospel
in a succinct form and numerous linked infographics and studies as why we are
correct (www.teleiosresearch.com).
· Change the world – Engage on 3 basic
levels:
levels:
o
Personal – Consider your dear
family, friends, and colleagues and with whom you could begin to discuss these
serious issues facing our culture and the answer that Christ brings. Encourage
and educate others. Share the gospel so God can change people’s hearts. Again,
my past blogs offer some help and how to do this (see blogs posted September
14-October 5, 2016 and October 26-November 30, 2016).
Personal – Consider your dear
family, friends, and colleagues and with whom you could begin to discuss these
serious issues facing our culture and the answer that Christ brings. Encourage
and educate others. Share the gospel so God can change people’s hearts. Again,
my past blogs offer some help and how to do this (see blogs posted September
14-October 5, 2016 and October 26-November 30, 2016).
o
Institutions – Consider donating
to institutions that help support Christianity in our culture such as American
Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ, https://aclj.org) or Judicial Watch (http://www.judicialwatch.org).
It is only by sharing the gospel and changing people’s hearts that ultimately
our culture will change while we sustain it with political action.
Institutions – Consider donating
to institutions that help support Christianity in our culture such as American
Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ, https://aclj.org) or Judicial Watch (http://www.judicialwatch.org).
It is only by sharing the gospel and changing people’s hearts that ultimately
our culture will change while we sustain it with political action.
o
Political – Consider engaging in the political process
by financial support of elected officials that support freedom of expression
and religion as well as a limited role of government in our lives. Write
letters to these elected officials!
Express your views and encourage them to stand firm for what is good and
right!
Political – Consider engaging in the political process
by financial support of elected officials that support freedom of expression
and religion as well as a limited role of government in our lives. Write
letters to these elected officials!
Express your views and encourage them to stand firm for what is good and
right!
President
Trump was right when he recently said that after freedom-loving people win
elections they often disappear… only to reappear at the next election. This
makes sense as we all are busy with work, church and family duties. However,
this is the time we need to encourage each other, convince others and press our
elected officials to keep moving towards victory. We can change our culture!
Trump was right when he recently said that after freedom-loving people win
elections they often disappear… only to reappear at the next election. This
makes sense as we all are busy with work, church and family duties. However,
this is the time we need to encourage each other, convince others and press our
elected officials to keep moving towards victory. We can change our culture!
Thank
you for reading my blog and your own belief in Christ. May God help us live to please
Him and pass our religious freedoms successfully to the next generation. Join
me again next week as we continue our exciting review of Teleios’ research
findings.
you for reading my blog and your own belief in Christ. May God help us live to please
Him and pass our religious freedoms successfully to the next generation. Join
me again next week as we continue our exciting review of Teleios’ research
findings.
WC
Stewart
Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Encircled by Evil? Encourage the GOOD! Part 1
Thank
you for visiting my blog. I want to take a quick break from our series
exploring the exciting results of Teleios’ research to discuss the intense
cultural wars that Christians face. This week let us consider the oppressive
forces we face.
Christians
in the United States have many blessings with which to serve God including:
freedom of expression and assembly, a pro-Christian president and
administration, safety within our shores, amazing access to electronic knowledge
sources and communication, unprecedented financial wealth, wonderful biblical
learning tools, and a robust church all of which provide opportunities for wellbeing,
fellowship, learning and service. However, as in every past and future generation,
Christians face challenges to our community and freedoms.
in the United States have many blessings with which to serve God including:
freedom of expression and assembly, a pro-Christian president and
administration, safety within our shores, amazing access to electronic knowledge
sources and communication, unprecedented financial wealth, wonderful biblical
learning tools, and a robust church all of which provide opportunities for wellbeing,
fellowship, learning and service. However, as in every past and future generation,
Christians face challenges to our community and freedoms.
Our
enemies
– We are surrounded by a totalitarian,
big-government culture which hates us. This should not surprise us
because Christ promised the world would hate us (John 15:18-24).
enemies
– We are surrounded by a totalitarian,
big-government culture which hates us. This should not surprise us
because Christ promised the world would hate us (John 15:18-24).
I
struggle to coin a name for these forces, but they have evolved from the
historical political left and now manifest strong elements of socialism, one-world
totalitarianism, and atheism. For this blog, I will call them “globalists”
because I believe the term encompasses the characteristics noted above.
struggle to coin a name for these forces, but they have evolved from the
historical political left and now manifest strong elements of socialism, one-world
totalitarianism, and atheism. For this blog, I will call them “globalists”
because I believe the term encompasses the characteristics noted above.
The
globalists’ hatred is visibly demonstrated by the current violence, death
threats, and verbal abuse against Christians and against a president who supports
Christian values, as well as law and order. Indeed, it appears the unified
underlying motives driving the evil intentions of the globalists, is their hatred
of Christ and biblical principles. Sadly, they generally promote:
globalists’ hatred is visibly demonstrated by the current violence, death
threats, and verbal abuse against Christians and against a president who supports
Christian values, as well as law and order. Indeed, it appears the unified
underlying motives driving the evil intentions of the globalists, is their hatred
of Christ and biblical principles. Sadly, they generally promote:
· Eliminating Christian
access to the public square
access to the public square
· Limiting free speech
· Early sexual exposure
· Abortion
· Race-based bigotry
· Blurring of the
genders
genders
· Men using women’s
restrooms
restrooms
· Destruction of borders
to dilute American society and its exceptional benefits
to dilute American society and its exceptional benefits
· Forcing jihadi
immigration into America to destroy our culture
immigration into America to destroy our culture
· Jihadi violence
against women and homosexuals, and mutilation of young girls
against women and homosexuals, and mutilation of young girls
Their
goal
– Globalists replace individuality and personal freedoms by demanding that each
person depends on the government for their job, residence, social benefits, and
wellbeing. They fight to replace God, communities and family with an
all-powerful government.
goal
– Globalists replace individuality and personal freedoms by demanding that each
person depends on the government for their job, residence, social benefits, and
wellbeing. They fight to replace God, communities and family with an
all-powerful government.
Their
Methods
– In short, ‘Just shut up!’
Methods
– In short, ‘Just shut up!’
Christians
often mistakenly believe that globalists think like we do, based in the same
values, and try to engage in the public square in a mutually respectful way.
Nothing could be further from the truth! While Christians generally treat
others and their views respectfully, globalists use repressive tactics with an
‘ends justify the means’ ethic to destroy those with whom they disagree.
often mistakenly believe that globalists think like we do, based in the same
values, and try to engage in the public square in a mutually respectful way.
Nothing could be further from the truth! While Christians generally treat
others and their views respectfully, globalists use repressive tactics with an
‘ends justify the means’ ethic to destroy those with whom they disagree.
So what
are their specific methods of culturally cleansing Christians?
are their specific methods of culturally cleansing Christians?
· Shame – The classic argument
from a humanistic standpoint is that Christians are narrow-minded, unloving, judgmental
people in contrast to globalists who are all accepting of all and everything.
In reality, however, globalists themselves are very narrow-minded and
inflexible in their views, and condemn strongly those who disagree with them.
from a humanistic standpoint is that Christians are narrow-minded, unloving, judgmental
people in contrast to globalists who are all accepting of all and everything.
In reality, however, globalists themselves are very narrow-minded and
inflexible in their views, and condemn strongly those who disagree with them.
· Intimidation – They seek to
silence us by threatening violence and verbal abuse.
silence us by threatening violence and verbal abuse.
· Name calling – Of course, any
disagreement with a globalist earns one a title of homophobic, racist,
misogynist, anti-science or fascist. They cover their own agenda by calling us
exactly what they are themselves.
disagreement with a globalist earns one a title of homophobic, racist,
misogynist, anti-science or fascist. They cover their own agenda by calling us
exactly what they are themselves.
· Corruption (anything is fair) – They intend to eliminate
our influence in the public square by using voter fraud and by forced
integration of migrants to dilute our communities, destroy our liberty, and depress
our Christian culture.
our influence in the public square by using voter fraud and by forced
integration of migrants to dilute our communities, destroy our liberty, and depress
our Christian culture.
Thank
you for reading my blog. Quite a challenge, but we have a big God! May we be
people of faith! Join me again next week as we discuss what our reaction should
be!
you for reading my blog. Quite a challenge, but we have a big God! May we be
people of faith! Join me again next week as we discuss what our reaction should
be!
WC
Stewart
Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Wow, religion (Christianity) actually helps wellbeing!
Welcome
back to my blog. Thank you for taking time to read it.
We just started
a new series on the exciting research findings from Teleios! Our first topic
was discussing the reasons for our passion at Teleios to explore the veracity
of scripture. Today let us set off on a journey to discover the actual
scientific data about how the Bible helps us. It is amazing!
a new series on the exciting research findings from Teleios! Our first topic
was discussing the reasons for our passion at Teleios to explore the veracity
of scripture. Today let us set off on a journey to discover the actual
scientific data about how the Bible helps us. It is amazing!
Our
first topic is perhaps the most vital: that Bible-based Christianity generally
improves wellbeing. These data come from two main sources.
first topic is perhaps the most vital: that Bible-based Christianity generally
improves wellbeing. These data come from two main sources.
· Teleios – We have found
through prospective surveys and studies that Christianity helps wellbeing both
generally and from specific measures. We will discuss those findings next week.
through prospective surveys and studies that Christianity helps wellbeing both
generally and from specific measures. We will discuss those findings next week.
· The medical literature – Peer-reviewed scientific
studies support improved wellbeing with Christianity! As we began our research
at Teleios this was a surprise to us. We found many studies indicating wellbeing
was improved by the practice of religion. Importantly, almost all these medical
studies were performed in historically Christian countries. This indicates that
most all the patients in the studies would have been either social or believing
Christians. Many of these studies can be seen in our published reviews and are
available on our websites https://teleiosgrant.com/index.php/research-initiatives/publications.
Otherwise they can be searched on Pubmed.
studies support improved wellbeing with Christianity! As we began our research
at Teleios this was a surprise to us. We found many studies indicating wellbeing
was improved by the practice of religion. Importantly, almost all these medical
studies were performed in historically Christian countries. This indicates that
most all the patients in the studies would have been either social or believing
Christians. Many of these studies can be seen in our published reviews and are
available on our websites https://teleiosgrant.com/index.php/research-initiatives/publications.
Otherwise they can be searched on Pubmed.
So let’s
examine the medical literature. The findings are impressive and have shown that
wellbeing is improved with religion in:
examine the medical literature. The findings are impressive and have shown that
wellbeing is improved with religion in:
·
Demographics – All age groups (10 years and older), both
genders, and African-American as well as Caucasian races.
Demographics – All age groups (10 years and older), both
genders, and African-American as well as Caucasian races.
·
Broad wellbeing effect – Specific wellbeing related measures
such as: sense of purpose, satisfaction, hope, stronger social relationships,
and ability to forgive.
Broad wellbeing effect – Specific wellbeing related measures
such as: sense of purpose, satisfaction, hope, stronger social relationships,
and ability to forgive.
·
Social measures – Vital areas of life such as the family,
career, a sense of community and socialization.
Social measures – Vital areas of life such as the family,
career, a sense of community and socialization.
·
Physical health – Healthy and patient populations. Specific diseases include: glaucoma, rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, chronic
pain, fatigue, diabetes, diabetic eye disease, congestive heart failure, and
HIV.
Physical health – Healthy and patient populations. Specific diseases include: glaucoma, rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, chronic
pain, fatigue, diabetes, diabetic eye disease, congestive heart failure, and
HIV.
Religion
has shown very few negative effects on wellbeing. Most commonly these have been
related to the limited expression of one’s faith to either internal or external
religious activities alone or to those who have an adversarial relationship
with God. The latter type of person might be one who does not understand grace
as a means to salvation, instead working to try to satisfy God.
has shown very few negative effects on wellbeing. Most commonly these have been
related to the limited expression of one’s faith to either internal or external
religious activities alone or to those who have an adversarial relationship
with God. The latter type of person might be one who does not understand grace
as a means to salvation, instead working to try to satisfy God.
Indeed,
it is striking to see that so many researchers have found, through scientific
studies, the benefit of religion on wellbeing in Christian countries. These
data are extensive and consistent enough that perhaps no other proof is needed
from a scientific standpoint. We have a great God who has benefited us with salvation
through Christ by grace, and provided scripture that through the power of the
Holy Spirit we can live useful and joyful lives.
it is striking to see that so many researchers have found, through scientific
studies, the benefit of religion on wellbeing in Christian countries. These
data are extensive and consistent enough that perhaps no other proof is needed
from a scientific standpoint. We have a great God who has benefited us with salvation
through Christ by grace, and provided scripture that through the power of the
Holy Spirit we can live useful and joyful lives.
Join us
again next week as we look at evidence from Teleios’ efforts demonstrate that
Christianity can improve wellbeing.
again next week as we look at evidence from Teleios’ efforts demonstrate that
Christianity can improve wellbeing.
WC
Stewart
Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Christianity and wellbeing on the college campus!
Welcome back to my blog. I’m glad you came to
visit. We have just finished a wonderful series on salvation and the Christian
walk to detail how to take advantage of good wellbeing associated with the Christian
faith. Prior
studies by Teleios and others have shown that personal wellbeing is better, on
average, among Christians than non-Christians, especially the more they adhere
to the practice of their faith, including church attendance (1-3).
Today, let us examine an exciting new study from Teleios.
We surveyed students at the University of Georgia regarding their wellbeing and
factors that influence it. In total, 247 students participated. An infographic
of the survey can be found on the Teleios website (https://teleiosgrant.com/index.php/new-research-atheism-religion-and-wellbeing-in-college-students). The full report has been submitted for publication to a scientific
journal.
We surveyed students at the University of Georgia regarding their wellbeing and
factors that influence it. In total, 247 students participated. An infographic
of the survey can be found on the Teleios website (https://teleiosgrant.com/index.php/new-research-atheism-religion-and-wellbeing-in-college-students). The full report has been submitted for publication to a scientific
journal.
Similar to our previous survey conducted at this same university
(internal data, Teleios), all groups in the new survey reported generally good
wellbeing. In the current survey the evangelical group had the highest ratings
for wellbeing. They also had a greater sense of purpose. Further, evangelicals
who were more adherent to their faith (e.g., religious activity, Bible study,
prayer, praise, and teaching) showed better wellbeing than non-adherent evangelicals.
(internal data, Teleios), all groups in the new survey reported generally good
wellbeing. In the current survey the evangelical group had the highest ratings
for wellbeing. They also had a greater sense of purpose. Further, evangelicals
who were more adherent to their faith (e.g., religious activity, Bible study,
prayer, praise, and teaching) showed better wellbeing than non-adherent evangelicals.
Although practices generally considered healthy
were chosen by all groups as important for enhancing wellbeing (including: good
health, university coursework, family and friends, a love interest, and career
goals), evangelicals more often depended on their relationship with God and
family as well as community service for improving wellbeing.
were chosen by all groups as important for enhancing wellbeing (including: good
health, university coursework, family and friends, a love interest, and career
goals), evangelicals more often depended on their relationship with God and
family as well as community service for improving wellbeing.
Fortunately, among all groups, only a low
minority of respondents were dependent upon drugs/alcohol, social media or
sexual relations for good wellbeing. Interestingly, evangelicals who indicated
they did not have good wellbeing (13%) were more likely to depend on sexual relations or drugs/alcohol (54% of
this group) for attaining good wellbeing than evangelicals noting good
wellbeing (17% depending on sexual relations or drugs/alcohol).
minority of respondents were dependent upon drugs/alcohol, social media or
sexual relations for good wellbeing. Interestingly, evangelicals who indicated
they did not have good wellbeing (13%) were more likely to depend on sexual relations or drugs/alcohol (54% of
this group) for attaining good wellbeing than evangelicals noting good
wellbeing (17% depending on sexual relations or drugs/alcohol).
Among atheists/agnostics, 40% noted they had
strong feelings of guilt. Unlike evangelicals, we could not identify a subset
of habits that predicted good wellbeing in the atheists/agnostics group. This
group was less likely to demonstrate their beliefs through discussions, action
or monetary giving. They more often expressed a desire for social activism and
a one world government as a source of hope.
strong feelings of guilt. Unlike evangelicals, we could not identify a subset
of habits that predicted good wellbeing in the atheists/agnostics group. This
group was less likely to demonstrate their beliefs through discussions, action
or monetary giving. They more often expressed a desire for social activism and
a one world government as a source of hope.
Students’ beliefs regarding entry into heaven
varied markedly between religious groups with 80% of evangelicals and 60% of
Catholics believing they would be admitted to heaven by faith in Jesus Christ.
In contrast, half of the atheists/agnostics group indicated there was no
heaven, but the rest were unsure or thought they would be admitted through
works or grace.
varied markedly between religious groups with 80% of evangelicals and 60% of
Catholics believing they would be admitted to heaven by faith in Jesus Christ.
In contrast, half of the atheists/agnostics group indicated there was no
heaven, but the rest were unsure or thought they would be admitted through
works or grace.
This new study shows that college students mostly
demonstrate good wellbeing, with evangelicals reporting the highest levels.
Overall, wellbeing and hope generally come from maintaining good health,
relationships with family and friends as well as career pursuits; evangelicals
especially are distinctive in their relationship with God through grace.
demonstrate good wellbeing, with evangelicals reporting the highest levels.
Overall, wellbeing and hope generally come from maintaining good health,
relationships with family and friends as well as career pursuits; evangelicals
especially are distinctive in their relationship with God through grace.
Although,
more work is needed to understand wellbeing among university students, this latest survey adds to the growing body of evidence of the
advantages of Christianity to providing good wellbeing through salvation by
grace and wise daily living.
more work is needed to understand wellbeing among university students, this latest survey adds to the growing body of evidence of the
advantages of Christianity to providing good wellbeing through salvation by
grace and wise daily living.
Wow, as Christians we have a great Savior and a
fantastic true resource in the Scriptures!
fantastic true resource in the Scriptures!
Thanks
again for reading my blog. Join me again next week as we discuss more exciting
Teleios research.
again for reading my blog. Join me again next week as we discuss more exciting
Teleios research.
WC Stewart
1. MacIlvaine WR, Nelson
LA, Stewart JA, & Stewart WC. Association of strength of community service
to personal well-being. Community Ment Health J 2014;50:577-582.
doi.org/10.1007/s10597-013-9660-0
LA, Stewart JA, & Stewart WC. Association of strength of community service
to personal well-being. Community Ment Health J 2014;50:577-582.
doi.org/10.1007/s10597-013-9660-0
2. MacIlvaine WR, Nelson
LA, Stewart JA, & Stewart WC. Association of strength of religious
adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther
Clin Pract 2013;19:251-255. doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2013.05.001
LA, Stewart JA, & Stewart WC. Association of strength of religious
adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther
Clin Pract 2013;19:251-255. doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2013.05.001
3. Rizvi MA, Hossain MZ.
Relationship between religious belief and happiness: A systematic literature
review. J Relig Health 2016 Dec 1.
[Epub ahead of print] doi: 10.1007/s10943-016-0332-6
Relationship between religious belief and happiness: A systematic literature
review. J Relig Health 2016 Dec 1.
[Epub ahead of print] doi: 10.1007/s10943-016-0332-6
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Reach Out!
Welcome again to my blog. I am glad you can
visit.
Teleios and other authors have shown Christian
belief can improve personal wellbeing! Therefore, we are examining the
Christian life in more detail to see how biblical truth may improve wellbeing.
belief can improve personal wellbeing! Therefore, we are examining the
Christian life in more detail to see how biblical truth may improve wellbeing.
We are discussing currently the practice of
Christianity based in Acts 2:42-47. These wonderful verses describe the practice
of the Christian walk within the early church. They are repeated throughout the
Epistles and so are vital to us today. I
call them the ‘5 tools to maturity’: prayer, praise, fellowship, outreach and
Bible study.
Christianity based in Acts 2:42-47. These wonderful verses describe the practice
of the Christian walk within the early church. They are repeated throughout the
Epistles and so are vital to us today. I
call them the ‘5 tools to maturity’: prayer, praise, fellowship, outreach and
Bible study.
Last week we discussed Bible study. Today’s tool
is outreach.
is outreach.
Problem – Unfortunately, teaching others or sharing the gospel appears to rank
right below ‘going to the dentist’ among desired activities. Teleios’ research
has shown that people who fear sharing the gospel specifically report being
afraid of: social rejection, offending the other person, not knowing what to
say, or how to answer others’ questions.
right below ‘going to the dentist’ among desired activities. Teleios’ research
has shown that people who fear sharing the gospel specifically report being
afraid of: social rejection, offending the other person, not knowing what to
say, or how to answer others’ questions.
What
teaching is not – Teleios has examined people’s habits in
mentioning the gospel (a part of what we teach others). In a well-taught Evangelical
Church, attendees indicated they conveyed the gospel to others most commonly by:
teaching is not – Teleios has examined people’s habits in
mentioning the gospel (a part of what we teach others). In a well-taught Evangelical
Church, attendees indicated they conveyed the gospel to others most commonly by:
· Sharing their lives – 78%
· Praying for others – 71%
· Encouraging others – 70%
· Loving others – 68%
· Explicitly mentioning how to accept Jesus Christ as Savior – 30%
Although sharing our lives is important, it does
not replace actually telling someone the gospel or directly teaching the Bible.
People cannot guess what we are thinking. Scripture recognizes that we do not
have visual support to our faith until Christ comes again (Hebrews 2:8) so
others need to hear what to believe and someone must explicitly tell them (Romans10:14-17).
not replace actually telling someone the gospel or directly teaching the Bible.
People cannot guess what we are thinking. Scripture recognizes that we do not
have visual support to our faith until Christ comes again (Hebrews 2:8) so
others need to hear what to believe and someone must explicitly tell them (Romans10:14-17).
It is a command – We are told to teach others (2 Timothy 2:2, 15, 24-26, 1 Timothy 4:6,
16, Hebrews 5:12) which involves instructing others in the Word of God. However,
teaching also may include admonishing others to correct action or thinking (Colossians3:17, Ephesians 5:19).
16, Hebrews 5:12) which involves instructing others in the Word of God. However,
teaching also may include admonishing others to correct action or thinking (Colossians3:17, Ephesians 5:19).
Benefits of teaching
·
Better wellbeing – Teleios has found that people who teach and share the Gospel
actually enjoy better wellbeing than those who do not. What initially seems
fearful -is actually enriching after a person has shared the Gospel or taught
God’s Word.
Better wellbeing – Teleios has found that people who teach and share the Gospel
actually enjoy better wellbeing than those who do not. What initially seems
fearful -is actually enriching after a person has shared the Gospel or taught
God’s Word.
·
Good judgment – The ability to teach appears associated with accurate and efficient
judgment and avoiding nasty pitfalls in life (Hebrews 5:14).
Good judgment – The ability to teach appears associated with accurate and efficient
judgment and avoiding nasty pitfalls in life (Hebrews 5:14).
·
Maturity – Being able to teach is associated with maturity, especially the attributes
of an elder (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Hebrews 5:12).
Maturity – Being able to teach is associated with maturity, especially the attributes
of an elder (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Hebrews 5:12).
·
Uplifting the church – Further, the benefit of teaching others Scripture or the Gospel is
not just for the individual but to the church itself. Teaching the Bible and
the Gospel is the primary way that we can grow the church and influence our
culture generally (Colossians 1:5-10). Without Christians passing down the
precious words of our Father to the next generation, the church certainly can
suffer from lack of support as opposed to influencing and benefiting our
society.
Uplifting the church – Further, the benefit of teaching others Scripture or the Gospel is
not just for the individual but to the church itself. Teaching the Bible and
the Gospel is the primary way that we can grow the church and influence our
culture generally (Colossians 1:5-10). Without Christians passing down the
precious words of our Father to the next generation, the church certainly can
suffer from lack of support as opposed to influencing and benefiting our
society.
So, let us get to work! What we possess in the
Bible is true and good for our family and acquaintances as well as for our
society!
Bible is true and good for our family and acquaintances as well as for our
society!
That’s all for today. Thank you for joining me.
Come back next week when we continue to talk about the benefit of our Bible
Come back next week when we continue to talk about the benefit of our Bible
WC Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
Don’t Forget to Study
Welcome again to my blog. I am so happy you can visit.
Teleios and other authors have shown Christian
belief can improve personal wellbeing! Therefore, we are examining the
Christian life in more detail to see if we can uncover in the Bible some of the
underlying causes of the improved wellbeing.
belief can improve personal wellbeing! Therefore, we are examining the
Christian life in more detail to see if we can uncover in the Bible some of the
underlying causes of the improved wellbeing.
We are discussing currently the practice of
Christianity for which we are using Acts 2:42-47 as a basis. These dynamic
verses describe the activities involved in the Christian lifestyle within the
early church. These descriptions are repeated throughout the Epistles and so
are vital to us today. I call them the
‘5 tools to maturity’ and can be summarized conveniently as: prayer, praise,
fellowship, outreach and Bible study. Last week we discussed fellowship.
Today’s tool for overview is Bible study.
Christianity for which we are using Acts 2:42-47 as a basis. These dynamic
verses describe the activities involved in the Christian lifestyle within the
early church. These descriptions are repeated throughout the Epistles and so
are vital to us today. I call them the
‘5 tools to maturity’ and can be summarized conveniently as: prayer, praise,
fellowship, outreach and Bible study. Last week we discussed fellowship.
Today’s tool for overview is Bible study.
We need to know
the Bible! Why? Can we just not memorize the most important verses and follow the
style of Christianity we learned in our college group or Sunday school and live
a good Christian social life? Social Christianity brings some good things to us
and our culture, no doubt. However, it is like settling for crackers when you
could be enjoying steak. Let’s examine what the Bible says.
the Bible! Why? Can we just not memorize the most important verses and follow the
style of Christianity we learned in our college group or Sunday school and live
a good Christian social life? Social Christianity brings some good things to us
and our culture, no doubt. However, it is like settling for crackers when you
could be enjoying steak. Let’s examine what the Bible says.
The Bible is an
authoritative source as it comes from God through the Holy Spirit by way of the
apostles (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21, 3:16).
authoritative source as it comes from God through the Holy Spirit by way of the
apostles (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21, 3:16).
· It is a command (Colossians 1:9)
· We cannot bear fruit or know what to do
without first knowing and understanding the Bible (Colossians 1:10). Accordingly,
to function as a Christian, like anything in life, we need to follow the
manual.
without first knowing and understanding the Bible (Colossians 1:10). Accordingly,
to function as a Christian, like anything in life, we need to follow the
manual.
· When we know the manual and know what to
do, then the process bears much fruit in our lives. We have better wellbeing
from a confident relationship with God. Teleios research has actually shown
that those who have more knowledge have better well-being and less guilt than
those who don’t (1)!
do, then the process bears much fruit in our lives. We have better wellbeing
from a confident relationship with God. Teleios research has actually shown
that those who have more knowledge have better well-being and less guilt than
those who don’t (1)!
It takes a little
work and time but the benefits are huge. We can have the joy of:
work and time but the benefits are huge. We can have the joy of:
· Bearing fruit in our lives such as: joy
and peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22).
and peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22).
· Seeing God work through us in others’
lives (Colossians 1:10).
lives (Colossians 1:10).
· Proving His Word and knowing Him better (Romans12:1-2, Colossians 1:10).
· Judging (i.e., assessing) what’s good and
bad in situations and people very quickly (Hebrews 5:14) thus keeping ourselves
out of life’s difficult situations.
bad in situations and people very quickly (Hebrews 5:14) thus keeping ourselves
out of life’s difficult situations.
· Not having to rely on our emotions so our
life becomes more stable and predictable (Hebrews 5:9-14). The Bible does not
state that we have a religion based in emotions and actually warns against it
(Ephesians 4:12-16, James 1:5-8).
life becomes more stable and predictable (Hebrews 5:9-14). The Bible does not
state that we have a religion based in emotions and actually warns against it
(Ephesians 4:12-16, James 1:5-8).
You may be
thinking ‘But isn’t listening to my pastor’s great sermons and watching an
effective video enough?’ As good as these learning experiences may be, we need
to study the Bible itself in some detail to fully understand and receive its
benefits.
thinking ‘But isn’t listening to my pastor’s great sermons and watching an
effective video enough?’ As good as these learning experiences may be, we need
to study the Bible itself in some detail to fully understand and receive its
benefits.
How then do we
effectively study Scripture? There are plenty of Bible study resources on
Amazon.com or on line that might be effective. Make sure they are Bible and
Christian based. In addition, someone in your church also may be able to help
you.
effectively study Scripture? There are plenty of Bible study resources on
Amazon.com or on line that might be effective. Make sure they are Bible and
Christian based. In addition, someone in your church also may be able to help
you.
You can start
with these basic steps:
with these basic steps:
· Download a web-based Bible study tool such
as eSword. It’s free and has multiple exciting resources to help understand Scripture
(www.e-sword.net).
as eSword. It’s free and has multiple exciting resources to help understand Scripture
(www.e-sword.net).
· Start with a power-packed epistle such as
Ephesians or Colossians that will give you essential information about Christ
and our Christian life in a concise manner.
Ephesians or Colossians that will give you essential information about Christ
and our Christian life in a concise manner.
· Slow down! Take your time and follow
these four basic study steps:
these four basic study steps:
o
Observation
– Ask questions
about the verse.
Observation
– Ask questions
about the verse.
o
Interpretation – Use resources on eSword to answer your
questions.
Interpretation – Use resources on eSword to answer your
questions.
o
Application – How should the first specifically
change your life?
Application – How should the first specifically
change your life?
o
Integration – What are other verses that support
your interpretation so you can confidently build what you know about the topic discussed
in the verse (e.g. salvation, the Spirit, etc.)?
Integration – What are other verses that support
your interpretation so you can confidently build what you know about the topic discussed
in the verse (e.g. salvation, the Spirit, etc.)?
That’s all for
today. The Bible is so rich and exciting! If you need help, contact us [email protected] and we will do what we can to assist you. Join us next week as we
talk about outreach.
today. The Bible is so rich and exciting! If you need help, contact us [email protected] and we will do what we can to assist you. Join us next week as we
talk about outreach.
1.
MacIlvaine, W.R., Nelson, L.A.,
Stewart, J.A., Stewart, W.C. (2013). Association of strength of religious
adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther Clin Pract, 19:251-255.
MacIlvaine, W.R., Nelson, L.A.,
Stewart, J.A., Stewart, W.C. (2013). Association of strength of religious
adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther Clin Pract, 19:251-255.
WC Stewart
Response policy – The purpose of the comment section is to promote discussion that
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
is encouraging, propels the further search of Scripture and raises interesting
and thought provoking Biblically related questions. You may feel free to
disagree with me in a constructive manner using appropriate language. I reserve
the right to remove your comments if they are profane, pornographic, libelous
or I do not consider them constructive or consistent with the policy
stated above. By posting you no longer own your comments and you are granting
me an unrestricted worldwide license to use your comments.
Copyright © 2016 Teleios, Inc. All rights
reserved.
reserved.
