“Twin Grants: To Believe And To Suffer…!”

“Twin Grants: To Believe And To Suffer…!”(Phi. 1:27-30).
When Christians crisscross the continent what are they looking for? Surely it is not a quest for the message of salvation. The message of salvation is abundantly available everywhere within the continent. The crisscrossing is a frantic search for healing, financial breakthrough, freedom from so-called generational curses, etc.
Two things which Paul says have been granted to believers on behalf of Christ are right at our doorsteps and one of them is what most of us will vehemently deny that it is not our portion. Against it we will shout, “I reject it in the mighty name of Jesus!”
Paul writes, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him…”
Like already mentioned above, we do not have to cross rivers to go hear the messages that will make us believe in Christ. We do not also go to those places in search of where we will suffer for Christ.
It is true that Jesus says he came that we may have life and have it in abundance. But he also tell us to deny ourselves, carry our crosses and follow him.
Paul was in chains for the sake of the gospel. Some who were envious of Paul took advantage to preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but there were those who preached out of goodwill, knowing that Paul was suffering for the sake of Christ. For Paul, “the important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.”
The fragmentation of the body of Christ should not be the reason for “dog eat dog” ideology plaguing the body of Christ as we have it today. It is enough that the world contains enough atheists and many other religions that challenge the body of Christ. Where we have such opposition to the gospel, believers should stand as one, instead of spending energy fighting each other for denominational supremacy. Paul advises that we should “stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you…” We are saved, despite the opposition that undermines our beliefs.
Dear friends, whatever the situation, as believers, “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ “
Prayer: Holy Spirit give us the courage to accept suffering for Christ. Amen!
Have a blessed day! Peace be with you!
Rev Babila Fochang.