Revelation Chapter 4, At This Point is the Church Already in Glory?

Part 1, Revelation chapter 4

On this Christmas Eve, I wish y’all a Merry Christmas. Remember, Christ is the reason for the season. Enjoy responsibly and reasonably.

Today I’d like to take up Revelation chapters 4. It marks a dramatic change of scene. Many bible expositors believe that at this point Christ has already taken the church. In other words, rapture has already taken place! I agree with this school of thought because rapture precedes tribulation period that’s covered from chapter 6-18. Why do I believe that at this point rapture has already taken place? Let me show you, the bride i.e. Christ’s church appears in chapter 19:7-8 already with Christ in heaven just before He returns to earth to give judgment and to reign in the millennial kingdom. I also believe rapture precedes great tribulation because Jesus promised the Philadelphian church and all the believers that they’ll be kept from the worldwide hour of trial. Check out the following verses, (Rev. 3:10; 19:7-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:2-10 and finally, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, “…after that we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the lord in the air….” First, let me explain what this rapture is all about. Rapture is derived from a Latin word raptu which means “caught up.” 1 Corinthians 15 describes the catching up of the church from the earth to meet Christ in the air. The rapture delivers the church (believers in Christ) from all distress, persecution, oppression, from the realm of sin and death and the coming wrath according to 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 5:9.

So back to chapter 4, it introduces us to vision of Christ sitting on the Throne. This passage also introduces us to the 24 thrones for the 24 elders dressed in white robes and having crowns of gold on their heads. Before the thrones were also 7 blazing lambs; a sea of glass, clear as crystal and finally 4 living creatures covered with eyes. Let’s ask ourselves a few questions at this point? First we have already ascertained that rapture has already taken place and that it precedes great tribulation. So, who are these 24 elders and who do they represent? Why do they wear crowns of gold? Who are the 4 living creatures? Why do the 24 elders and the 4 creatures occupy a prominent position around the Throne?

Well, I might not be able to explain all the above because my own understanding is limited. However, I’ll try to pick what the scriptures say to answer some of the questions. I also invite you to contribute. Many people believe that the 24 elders are representatives from the 12 tribes of Israel as per the names written on the gates of Jerusalem (Rev.21:12) and the 12 apostles written on the 12 foundations of the city (Rev. 21:14). Others believe that they are angels. Personally I don’t agree on them being angels. Why I don’t agree is because from scriptures, I haven’t come across any scriptures that elect angels occupying thrones or wearing victor’s crowns, also the term elder (presbuteroi-presbyter) in scripture refers to men not angels.

A throne is a place of sovereignty and a place of judgment as well. The Magnificent One sits on the throne as the Sovereign Judge. The 24 elders also sit on “lesser” thrones. Is put lesser thrones to mean that Christ Throne is above the 24 other thrones. Does this suggest they are reigning/judge with Christ (Rev 2:26-27; 20:4; Matthew 19:28 and Luke 22:30?

The thunder, lighting and voices calls us to attention and brings us to a solemn time. The throne is already set in heaven and it’s time for the one who sits on the throne to administer judgment on the wicked. I simply cannot explain the four living creatures with six wings each and covered with eyes. This is metaphorical and my mind cannot comprehend the reality. Could they be the exalted order of angels in charge of worship? I just cannot decode it with human understanding. But it seems that the duty of the four living creatures is primarily that of worship. The Sea of glass clear as crystal remain a mystery to me. However all I can say that with Christ on the throne He is able to see everything crystal clear with glorified eyes. He is such an intelligent God.

In conclusion, the 4 living creatures, day and night they never stop saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come” (Rev 4:8). This verse emphasizes the holiness as an eternal attribute of God.  The 24 elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever, they lay before Him their crowns and say, “You’re worthy, our Lord and God to receive glory and honor and power.” They pay homage to Him as the Creator King (Rev 4:11).

Tomorrow we take part 2 of the heavenly scene- the Lamb and the seven sealed scroll.

Mingi love,

Kachel Nzaku

Inspired to inspire: Introduction to the Book of Revelation

Inspired to inspire: Introduction to the Book of Revelation: Before broaching into the Christology of Revelation, let’s first discuss a few fundamental matters. First, the genre of the book of Revelat...

Introduction to the Book of Revelation

Before broaching into the Christology of Revelation, let’s first discuss a few fundamental matters. First, the genre of the book of Revelation is apocalyptic literature (apocalyptic comes from Greek word apokalypsis meaning a revelation or a disclosure or uncovering from God concerning the imminent coming of the end of this age and the final advent of God’s kingdom. It is the very first word that opens the book, “The revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place.”

Secondly, various scholars suggest possible dates for the apocalypse. Some date it during the reign of Claudius (A.D 41-54), others during the administration of Nero (A.D 54-68) and others during Domitian reign (A.D 81-96). “Irenaeus, who wrote in 190-200 CE, is the earliest extant witness to the date of Revelation. He writes that the book was written near the end of Domitian’s reign who was a Roman emperor from 81-96 CE (Slater, Thomas B. 1999. Christ and Community: A Socio-Historical Study of the Christology of Revelation. p. 22). In addition, “Price suggests that Domitian’s reign corresponds the establishment of the imperial cult at Ephesus” (ibid).

Thirdly, the Book of revelation is addressed to seven churches in Asia and in general the body of Christ in all generations and all over the world-to rebuke compromise and sin and makes a clarion call to repent; under the shadow of imperial persecution Revelation was given to the churches to strengthen their faith and to inspire believers to remain faithful even unto death; finally to reveal the events during the 7 years (Great tribulation) preceding Christ’s second coming. The island of Patmos was the place John received the visions.

Fourth, the content of Revelation seems to be a medley of imagery and symbols. There is a progressive development of action that pervades it from beginning to the end. I suppose the reason why many people shun reading the book of Revelation is because of the difficult in interpretations. There are four main types of interpretation that make attempts to explain this book.

1. Preterist interpretation-views Revelation as descriptive of the historic conditions of the Asian churches at the end of the 1st century.

2. Historicist interpretation- assumes that the book of Revelation depicts the entire course of Christian history from the time of John until the consummation of ages.

3. Idealist interpretation-assumes the visions of the apocalypse are allegory not actual events.

4. Futurist interpretation-approaches chapter 4-22 as prophecy concerning events that will occur in the future.

Personally am of the futurist perspective because undoubtedly a large segment of Revelation is intended to describe the future “Come up hither, and I will show you what must soon take place (Rev.4:1).

As a preterist; I shouldn’t forget that most biblical prophecy has both immediate and a future application. As a Futurist view; I should not assume that I have “figured out" the future. Jesus said that no one will know the day of his return before it happens. As a Historicist; I should be careful before identifying currents events or leaders as fulfilling aspects of the book of Revelation. And as an Idealist, I should not avoid the book completely because it is difficult. I should try to understand Revelation within its broader literary context.  Addition on genre, there is much debate about the exact genre used in the book: 1. Some view it as purely epistle that the primary method is that of a letter, though prophetic material is given in the letter. 2. Others view it as Prophecy, thought it contains 7 individual letters, the primary literary form is that of prophecy similar to the prophecies found in the OT. Reason being that the primary purpose of the book was to describe events in the future. 3. Others believe this is apocalyptic literature. However not everyone agrees on the definition of apocalyptic literature. Although Ezekiel and Daniel and other OT prophets contain some apocalyptic characteristics, they were written to offer assurances to their readers that the Kingdom of God will triumph though there would be great persecution and trouble in the meantime. Their worldview is nearly always characterized by a dualistic conception of this present world and the world to come. 4. It is generally thought that Revelation contains elements of all the 3 of this. It is certainly written in an epistolary format; it appears to contain prophecy and it certainly contains some elements of apocalyptic literature from that period time” (Sammy Koech)

Fifth, the obvious emphasis or theology of this book is eschatology (future events of the church in the divine plan). There is also emphasis on the centrality of God’s throne, personality and God’s sovereignty; Christology; the destinies of both the believer and non-believers are clearly defined; angelology; demonic world of evil under domination of Satan and finally personal spiritual experience. All the above doctrines are related to the divine program.

It is my hope that the exposition of the book of revelation will be a great blessing and we will be able to understand what God is saying to us in this contemporary world.

Regards,

Kachel Nzaku Nashipae

The Message to Christ's Church

Today we are journeying through Revelation chapter 2 and 3, let’s have a glimpse of the social, political, economic and political milieu of the 7 churches. Some of the cities were rich while others were impoverished and some were of commercial importance. Laodicea was the wealthiest city. Sardis was also a city of great fame and wealth. Thyatira which stood at crossroads was known for its trade guilds. Philadelphia a city of commercial importance was located at the gateway to the high central plateau and had flourishing vineyards. From the detailed hints in the two chapters, there is evidence of harassment especially by the adherents of the imperial cult who expected some sign of reverence for the emperor cult and Jewish groups who disliked the Christians because of their belief that Jesus was worthy of divine honour. Mistreatment of Christians seems to have been spasmodic and periodically escalated into very serious regional persecutions. The pagan expectations caused tension to the social detriment of Christians. The letters hint that some Christians considered taking a more accommodating, less exclusive stance toward pagan society. As mentioned in the introduction, imperial cult was practiced strongly in Asia and in most of the eastern Mediterranean regions of the Roman Empire. Cities competed vigorously for the privilege of being declared neokoros, an official centre for imperial cult. A neokorate symbolized for these cities civic pride and devotion to the imperial cult.

Christians who held that Christ not Caesar was Lord were facing increasing hostility. For instance, the Smyrna church is warned against the coming opposition; Philadelphia is told of an hour of trial coming on the world; John is already exiled to the island of Patmos because of the testimony of Jesus Christ and so on. In such situations, some of the believers began to advocate for compromise. John writes to encourage the Christians to resist staunchly emperor worship and stay faithful even to the point of death (Rev. 2:10).

The first letter is to the church in Ephesus. The city was famous for its temple of Diana or Artemis, (Acts 19:27). The temple priestesses were dedicated to cult prostitution. Jesus affirms the Ephesians’ positive actions-their deeds, hard work and perseverance and also notes their shortcoming-they had forsaken their first love. They no longer had the same passion for Christ as when they first believed. Their work was no longer motivated by love. He then calls them to repent and do the things they did at first (Rev. 2:5). In addition, He warns His church of impending judgment if they did not repent and at the same time adds another commendation concerning their doctrinal purity (they hated Nicolaitan teachings). Finally, He then promises a blessing to those who heed the word, that is, tree of life and the paradise of God.

The second letter is to Smyrna church. Jesus starts by acknowledging their trials, poverty and a spiritual wealth that no one could take away. After commending the church in Smyrna for their spiritual victories, Jesus warned them of coming persecution. However, He gives hope to His church and calls them to remain faithful in their suffering. He then makes a final promise to the believers in Smyrna that he who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death (Rev. 2:11).

The third letter is to the believers in Pergamum. On its acropolis, Pergamum had dedicated a high altar to Zeus and a temple to Athena and was the first to support the imperial cul. First, Jesus affirms the church’s positive actions-they did not renounce their faith in Jesus. The believers lived in a difficult place, surrounded by pagan influences, yet they held fast to Christ’s name and did not deny Him during difficult times. One Christian in Pergamum named Antipas was killed as faithful witness. Nevertheless, Jesus took note of their sin-some of the people held to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality and the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Jesus then issues a clarion call to repent of their sin. Finally, He makes a promise to the overcomers-hidden manna, a white stone, and a new name.

The fourth letter is Christ’s message to the church of Thyatira. Thyatira was a wealthy industrial town. Jesus affirms the church’s positive actions-their deeds, love and faith, service and perseverance. Then He also notes their sin-they tolerated that woman Jezebel who by her teaching she misled Christ’s servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols (Rev. 2:20). It seems the church was engaging in sexual immorality and dipping into in idolatry. Jesus calls the church of Thyatira to repent of their sin and encourages those who had remained faithful. Finally, Jesus registers His promises to the believers in Thyatira-to him who overcomes and does Christ’s will to the end, will be given authority over the nations and victory over all enemies, and the Morning Star (Jesus Himself).

Sardis was one of the oldest and best defended cities in the region. It was a strong pagan religious center. The fifth letter was addressed to the church in this city. Jesus condemns the lifeless state of the Sardis church-they had a reputation of being alive, but were spiritually lifeless (Rev. 3:2). Jesus then calls them to repent lest they be caught off guard when Christ returns. After the warning, He encourages the faithful remnant who had remained faithful and had not soiled their garments. Jesus makes a final promise to the believers in Sardis-that those who overcome will be dressed in white and their names will never be blotted from the book of life

The sixth letter is to the Philadelphian church. Philadelphia was a center of pagan worship and was known as ‘Little Athens’ indicating the philosophy, religion, and immorality of the large city of Athens were present in Philadelphia. Jesus affirms the church’s positive actions that though they had little strength, they kept Christ’s word and did not deny His name (Rev. 3:8). Because of this, the Lord promises them an open door of blessings. He then condemns the enemies of the Philadelphian believers; those who persecuted the believers. Jesus encourages the Philadelphian believers regarding His future coming so to hold on to what they have. Their faithful endurance would serve as a blessing. Jesus provides a final promise to the believers in Philadelphia and to all believers-him who overcomes He will make a pillar in the temple of His God.

The seventh and the last letter is addressed to the church in the city of Laodicea. Laodicea had no water supply, so water from hot springs six miles south of the city was brought through aqueducts to serve the community. By the time this water reached the city it was lukewarm. So when the Lord calls them Lukewarm, they could easily identify with the Lord’s reaction to their lukewarmness. In contrast to the other six churches, Jesus begins the message with condemnation-“you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!” (Rev. 3:15-17). With their indifference came a spiritual blindness; they claimed to be rich, blessed and self-sufficient. Jesus calls the Laodicean church to repent of its sin. Their material wealth had no eternal benefit, so Jesus commands them to come to Him for true, spiritual riches. He then makes a promise to the believers-that to him who overcomes, He will give the right to sit with Him on His throne.

What is the relevance of the above to the contemporary church and to every individual Christian? Each of the messages in the letters to the seven churches in Asia includes information appropriate to each church, and from these messages we can draw lessons applicable to our individual lives today and the body of Christ in every generation. We are called to heed the word, repent and make appropriate changes in our individual lives and in the body of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. For instance, like the Ephesians church, we can easily fall prey to a cold, mechanical observance of religion; we may tend to focus solely on doctrinal purity and activities, to the exclusion of true love for Christ; there are myriad of teachings that are contrary to God’s word. Today sexual compromise-homosexuality and prostitution has become a normal thing and many religions have become complacent and are accommodating immoral people in the church. Jesus desires purity among His people, and I believe church leaders have a responsibility to rebuke and remove false teachers from the church. Today’s church, is full of unsaved people going through the motions of religion but are spiritually dead. It’s time the church preaches the true gospel like the early apostles did. Finally, for the churches which are flourishing, rich and secure, we should never allow the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things to come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. The desired response to God’s reproof is zealous change and true repentance. In addition, no amount of zeal for the truth or moral righteousness can replace a heart full of love for Jesus.

What is the Lord saying to you through the above letters to the 7 churches in Asia?

Mingi pendoz,

Kachel

The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation 1)

There is an incredible variety of literary techniques that God used in His Word to convey what He wanted to reveal to us. Symbolic language is one of the chief characteristics of apocalyptic literature, of which the book of Revelation is an outstanding example. It contains the account of visions in symbolic and allegorical language. At this point, let me mention that Revelation contains a variety of rhetoric or literary techniques namely metaphor, simile, personification, symbolism, imagery, hyperbole and chiasm among others. We will encounter these techniques and it is of paramount importance to understand so that we do not misinterpret scriptures. 

Here is the prologue or the initial opening remarks of the book of Revelation. "1.The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to shew unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand." The above opening verses are very significant. This prologue describes the source, contents, and audience of the book. First, this book is the revelation of Jesus Christ. 

Yesterday I mentioned that the Greek word for revelation is apocalypsis which mean to uncover. It takes the cover off the hidden things of God. First, the source of the revelations is God. He gave Jesus these revelations. He gave them to show his servants what must happen soon. Second, this is a revelation about Jesus. It is the revelation of the person of Jesus Christ. He is the one who rose from the dead, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. It is a revelation of God’s glory and power. Third, this revelation gives a certainty of the things that must soon take place. Well, am sure someone will wonder, how soon is soon? In my view soon could mean that it will happen in the near future or to mean the certainty of what must happen. I can’t speculate when soon is soon but all I know is that God has said it, it will happen. As for the precise time, I don’t know. So what must you and I do as far as this revelation is concerned? Acknowledge that the source of this message is God Himself and that as verse three say, God will bless the person who reads, hears and keeps the words of this message. John warns that there is not much time left. Verse 4, introduces us to the seven churches and seven spirits of God. These representative churches are mentioned by name in Rev 1:11, and each is the recipient of a message (Rev 2:1–3:22). We are being informed that John sends the message to the 7 churches in the region called Asia. So, does that mean that it not applicable to the contemporary church? Certainly no! Seven is the biblical number suggesting fullness and completeness; thus the seer is writing for the whole church. Seven is a sign of something perfect or complete. John starts his letter with a prayer for grace and peace from the eternal God (who is, who was and is to come. The Alpha (first letter of the Greek alphabet) and Omega (the last letter of the Greek alphabet)).

In the following verses, John introduces himself and the glorified Christ to us, “ I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus,Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.” 12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. 19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” 

Verses 12-16, Jesus is portrayed in all His glorious appearance. He is clothed with a garment right down to His feet, and girded with a golden girdle, thereby emphasizing His priestly and royal dignity. His hair, white like wool, symbolizes His wisdom, while His eyes that are as a flame of fire, symbolizes that nothing is hidden from His sight. His feet like fine brass as if they burned in a furnace, depict His absolute holiness and purity. As for the seven stars and lambstands are clearly explained. In verse 20, "The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” Christ Himself is the Lamp. 

Let me pose a question who are those angels? I'll answer that tomorrow as we look at the individual churches. 

Baraka,
Kachel

The Red Sea and the Jordan River Must Give Way For The Children of God to Move On into Their Destiny

In my devotion today I read about the Crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 13:17-14:31) and the Jordan River (Joshua 3:1-4:7). I thought about the many obstacles that stand in our way to prevent us from entering into our rest and destiny. The various obstacles we face each day can cripple us, make us hopeless, discouraged and prevent us from living and fulfilling our life's purpose. At the sight and/or in the middle of these obstacles it is easy to feel afraid, dismayed and hopeless. After reading the above bible passages, I became confident and hopeful that the Red Sea and the Jordan River must give way for me to plunge into, move on and cross over to my destiny and that God must be glorified in and through it all. 

I took note of the following:

1. God's Presence

Moving on in and being in the presence of God must be our number one priority. In Exodus 33:15, Moses prayed to God, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here." Never venture into anything unsure of God's presence. 

When the Israelites left Egypt, God was with them. By day, He went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light. These pillars never left their place in front of the people (Ex. 12:20-22). When they were crossing River Jordan, the Ark of Covenant (God's presence) went ahead of them and the moment the priests carrying it put their feet into the flooded river, the waters were cut off and they crossed over to the other side on dry land (Josh. 3:14-17). There is something about the Presence of God-it gives protection, guidance and victory.

2. Do not be afraid/dismayed

I hear theologians say that there are 365 bible verses that say "do not fear." Well, personally I have not counted them but I have read a number of them and I believe that indeed God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. When the Israelites lifted their eyes and saw the chariots of Pharaoh marching after them, they were terrified and cried out to the LORD. Ex. 14:13-14, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 

As long as you are in God's presence, you've nothing to fear. Though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging, do not be afraid but be still and know that He is God. God is with you and He is your fortress (psalm 46). 

3. Do not forget His benefits

The Old-hymn, "Count your blessings name them one by one..." Psalm 103:2 says, "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits." If you start to count you will discover that God has been and is good to you all the time. Personally, I have tasted of the Lord and I know that He is good. He has done me well. I am blessed. After moving on and crossing over, do not forget His benefits. Praise Him, raise to Him a memorial, an altar and worship Him. Honor and acknowledge Him. After crossing the Red Sea, Miriam and Moses led the Israelites into a song and dance for the YAHWEH (Ex. 15). In Josh 4, when they finished crossing the River Jordan; they picked stones in the middle of the River to serve as a memorial forever that God was with them and tasted His goodness and saw His power. Do you have a song and a dance for the LORD? Do not forget His benefits.

The Red Sea and the Jordan River must give way for the child of God to move on and cross over.

With love,

Kachel

The Love of a Child

Have you ever sat down looking at your phone wishing that someone would give you a call? Last night I needed that call and yes my phone rang, it was one of my Sunday schoolers who I haven't seen for some months.

My caller, "Sasa teacher Kachel. Nimekumiss. How have you been?
Me: I'm fine. How you doing? ...sema?
My caller: "Me niko poa. Nlikuwa tu nataka kukusalimia nijue ka uko poa, nimekumiss na ninakupenda."
Me: Awwwww, thanks baby...."

A few gifts are as wonderous as the love of a child.

Inspired to inspire: Self-Confidence

Inspired to inspire: Self-Confidence: We all carry treasures in fragile containers. Have you ever confidently done something and expected that someone who matters to you will ...

Self-Confidence

We all carry treasures in fragile containers.

Have you ever confidently done something and expected that someone who matters to you will affirm you? How did it go? How did that affect you?

Let me share two experiences that made a tremendous impact in my life. My early formative years I grew up in the country-side. Enrolled in a school where we were taught in the native language. Your guess is right! My inflection was affected. In my native language, we omit letter H where it’s supposed to be and of course insert it where it’s not supposed to be-my name betrays me! Long story short, in class six I changed school from country-side to the capital city. I was so excited. My day one in my new school was traumatizing. I was asked to introduce myself in class and because usually I am bubbly. I did my thing confidently but noted my classmates were giggling. I didn’t give a care. So during our Swahili lesson, I offered to read a passage in class... I pronounced a certain word badly and all the class was Rolling-On-The-Floor –with-Laughter (ROTFL) blame it on the mother-tongue effects! That killed my confidence and I never made any attempt to answer questions or read passages in class. My esteem went down because everyday my class-mates teased me. I became extremely shy (yea, for those who have always known me as a bubbly parrot, I once was a very shy girl). On the positive side, I worked hard to ensure that my inflection and nuance was perfect. Today I must say that my twang is good, but do I say! I’m confident whenever I have an audience to do my public speech.

The other story that changed my story for good... after I cleared high school, I enrolled for a certificate course “HIV/AIDS Training and Counselling” with Kenya Youth and Orphans Empowerment Program (KYOEP). After I successfully completed the course, I was posted in 3 training centres-Madaraka, Kahawa-West and Wangige as a Trainer and Counsellor. It’s at Wangige Training Centre where my public speaking skills and teaching abilities were commended. My oldest student was a 72year old man and this man gave me the greatest single gift-self-confidence. He said, “Young girl, you are gifted. You are a great teacher. Your nuance is perfect. Your pronunciation so clear. You will go far....” The confidence gave me the courage to be who I am today. I have had opportunities to speak to big and small audiences-tens, hundreds and thousands of people.

One of my favourite bible memory verses was Jeremiah 1:5 and 2 Timothy 1:7. I always told myself that I am God’s spokesperson to nations and that God has not given me a spirit of fear. I memorized these verses each day and looking back, what shall I say! Today, more than enough times I have been called to speak in different forums and I have been paid handsomely. I have taught God’s word in Schools, Universities and Colleges and in Churches. I carry a treasure in a fragile container. I can’t thank God enough for the gift of self-confidence.

That selfconfident girl,

Kachel

Kid's are Precious

Late one evening of the 1800s, D. L. Moody arrived home from speaking at a meeting. His wife askd him,"So how did it go...?" Moody replied,"Pretty well. Two and a half converts." His wife was silent for a while pondering. With a smile she said, "That's sweet. How old was th child?" Moody answered, "No. It was two children and one adult.
Children have their whole lives in front of them while the adult's life is already half gone."

Many times when missioners come from the mission fields&when giving reports I hear them say, "1,2,3,10 or 100 men and women got saved." Mostly, children are never accounted for! My Question is, is it that we don't see their significance or is it that they are not acknowledged and led to Christ or is it that we think they're too young to be born again?

‪#‎ChildrenMatterToGod‬

Inspired to inspire: The Power of Forgiveness

Inspired to inspire: The Power of Forgiveness: How easy it is to preach and tell people about the power of forgiveness! Well,in my opinion, it is easy said than done! I h...

The Power of Forgiveness

How easy it is to preach and tell people about the power of forgiveness! Well,in my opinion, it is easy said than done! I have been hurt by people I considered my close friends. I have been betrayed by people I trusted. I have been disappointed by people I went out of my way to help. I have been despised by people I treasured! I can go on and on.... I know how it feels to struggle with forgiveness! Logic says, "Tit-for-tat is a fair game." Or "If you hurt me once, I ain't going to let you hurt me again!" Forgiveness says, "If you hurt me I will still love you. I'll take a risk of loving you again even though you may not love me back." 

Er, what about when someone keeps harming/hurting you and never say sorry? Tough! Nevertheless, one must be willing to forgive with or without an apology! In my devotion and reflections tonight, I've read Genesis 33. If I were Esau and my brother Jacob checks in unceremoniously! Considering he conned me my birthright some 10+ yrs ago, would I run to meet, embrace and kiss my con bro? Would I be merciful and gracious to him? Come with me and let's look at Luke 6:29: Matt 5:39. It says, "If someone strikes you on one cheek,turn to him th other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic." Am not sure how easy this is but am hopeful,Ezekiel 36:26 is applicable, "I (LORD) will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." 

After reading and reflecting on the above passages I can say this: 

1. Forgiveness defies logic 

2. Forgiveness goes beyond our natural bend. It's not natural. 

3. Forgiveness makes us feel as if we are appearing weak to others. As we show love to those who've hurt/despised us, we heap coals of fire upon their head. 

4. Forgiveness requires risk. If you love, u put yourself in a position to be disappointed,rejected,taken for granted. 

I've realized that I tend to pull back to guard myself from any further pain or disappointment whenever someone hurts me. And this brings me my last point that: 

5. To forgive requires work. It's not an instant event in the mind but an ongoing act. 

In conclusion, I admit it's not easy,I know this too well because I have had my share of struggle to forgive some people. I realize that forgiveness is not about how good you feel about forgiving someone but it's about obedience to God. Only God can work in our hearts and prepare us to embrace and kiss people who've hurt,despised,betrayed us. Only the Holy Spirit can help us. 

Forgiveness brings healing, unspeakable joy and peace in our hearts. 

With love 

Kachel

Inspired to inspire: Children Matter to God

Inspired to inspire: Children Matter to God: I read this point in a book am reading "Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions" that the moral and spiritual foundation of...

Children Matter to God

I read this point in a book am reading "Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions" that the moral and spiritual foundation of children are generally determined by the time an individual reaches age nine. 

How significant? 

The author of this book states that children matter on the battlefront. "Satan's single-minded purpose is to destroy God and rule the universe. He puts his most destructive resources well packaged into play. He knows too well that if the character and the hope of children is destroyed,he rules the world! He's very intelligent and sharp enough to realize that if you win over children,you've won generation(s). We are busy battling homosexuality, abortion,garbage imbedded in music and movies,pornography, gambling and drugs abuse etc but the battlefront is in the mind,heart and soul of children. Satan knows the easiest way to inflict the maximum possible pain on God is by winning over children to himself, resulting in a lifetime of unrighteous behavior! Children have a special place in God's heart&Satan knows God's "weakness" is that He loves children."

So? Train children to love God with all their heart, mind, strength and soul, then we'll no longer invest time battling over moral and spiritual issues such as stated above. Godliness will be entrenched in their heart, mind and soul. If we effectively teach them God's principles and expectation; instill in them a thirst for righteousness and a passion for God & develop a biblical worldview in them, generations will be won for God's glory! What if every parent/guardian, teachers, pastors and church ministers invest in training children in godliness? 

With love Kalekye Nzaku

Inspired to inspire: The Tyranny of the Urgent

Inspired to inspire: The Tyranny of the Urgent: Lately I have been thinking about my priorities...  I stumbled upon an article by Charles E. Hummel-“Tyranny of the Urgent” and I must sa...

The Tyranny of the Urgent

Lately I have been thinking about my priorities... 

I stumbled upon an article by Charles E. Hummel-“Tyranny of the Urgent” and I must say I feel charged up to take an inventory of my priorities.

A few years ago I had a problem saying NO to invitations for missions. Sometimes someone would call me few hours to the mission day to ask me if I could take up the task, which I hardly said NO. I’d grab my bible, flip through the pages to get a sermon and step out for the mission. Obviously, not having done it prayerfully.  I couldn’t say NO. Almost all my weekends were fully booked and had no me/family/friends-time but worst, I had no time to sit quietly in God’s presence to wait for instructions. I remember one time a friend of mine wrote to me “You are too busy, ata God akija kuku-bless anapata ulishaenda Turkana...” Several times I had friends who told me to slow down but one friend sat me down and told me I needed to take a break and learn to say NO. That simple rebuke changed my life.

  

As I read through the Tyrant of the Urgent article, I assert that indeed there is what is important/priority and the urgent. Looking at the life of Jesus, the bible clearly states that Jesus finished the work the Father send Him to do. Really? Yes He did! What was the secret that kept Him free from the Tyranny of the Urgent? Jesus always spend quiet time in prayer, waiting for instructions from the Father. He totally depended on the Father. His mission was to do the will of the Father. He showed an amazing balance, a sense of timing and never did anything in haste or just because it seemed urgent. A classical example was when He got reports that Lazarus was sick and needed His urgent attention. Jesus didn’t stop everything else to rush to Lazarus! Actually He stayed 2 days longer. But, wasn’t that an important as well as an urgent matter? Well, according to His divine purpose, that was not so urgent from God’s point of view. The most important thing was to raise Lazarus from the dead.

It’s of paramount importance to take time to pray and wait for God’s instructions, to plan and do an inventory of your priorities. I want to be free from the Tyranny of the Urgent. You only have 24hrs in a day. Do what’s important a time and of course, learn to be reasonably flexible.

With Love,

Kachel

Inspired to inspire: Father-Daughter Relationship in My Lenses

Inspired to inspire: Father-Daughter Relationship in My Lenses: What's the color of my  lenses ?  On Father’s Day 2015, I woke up feeling empty and lonely. What a manner to start off the day! As ...

Father-Daughter Relationship in My Lenses

What's the color of my lenses? 

On Father’s Day 2015, I woke up feeling empty and lonely. What a manner to start off the day! As I flipped through facebook, reading through some posts for and about fathers, I noted that some of the posts were very sad while others very inspiring and worth of envy. Personally, I didn’t have anything to write about my own biological father, I felt lonely and sad! Yes, I have a father of course. I believe he is still alive somewhere and I sense he has a great family. I don’t know if he was excited about my arrival especially because there is a difference of almost 10 years between me and my elder sister. Well, I do not have those childhood memories of my relationship with him. I can’t remember if he is the one who taught me how to walk or something. I’m not sure if he ever kissed my forehead or stroked my tender cheeks. I’d wish to know if he bought me dolls, dresses and shoes. I can’t figure out if he was keen on my formative years bla bla bla.

Honestly, I was envious reading some of those facebook posts and the family photos with fathers holding their children. For once I really wanted to be with my daddy that Father’s Day morning and share some father-daughter stories and laughter...but if wishes were horses that day I’d have rode mine! However, I have a man who loves mommy and loves me too, he is such a great man, and I honor him. I sent him a happy Father’s Day message and also sent him a gift. Later in the day he called to say, “Thank you my daughter.” Aww!  That felt awesome, I had this warm glow in my heart that brightened my faceJ. Yea, I have a dad!

Where am leading at?

Recently I read some journals “The Case for Grace” by Lee Strobel and this statement caught my attention, “A young person’s relationship with his/her earthly father can greatly color his/her attitude toward God.” He further explains that some of the well-known atheists through history had felt abandoned or deeply disappointed with their fathers, making it less likely they would want to know a heavenly Father. They grew up believing that father’s hurt. Although more than enough times they have been told that they have a heavenly Father who loves them that doesn’t bring joy to them instead it brings pain because they are not able to discern the difference between a heavenly Father and an earthly father. I guess I understand and feel their pain. I remember some years back while in my primary school kids would share amazing stories about their family experiences over the weekend and those were my hardest seasons of life because a times I’d cry myself to sleep because I didn’t have a daddy to talk about with my schoolmates.

So do I have issues relating with my heavenly Father just because I didn’t have an earthly father great experiences?

Well, for many years have recited the Lord’s Prayer words, “Our Father who is in heaven...” Countless times consciously or unconsciously I pray, “Father, in Jesus name....” but really, is it mechanical-just because my Sunday school teachers taught me that I have to pray, “Father in the name of Jesus...” Did I have that intimate relationship with my heavenly Father to a point I understand what it is like to relate with Him? Is He really my Father? Does He really love me? Can I really sense His love all around me? Well, let’s just say I am beginning to understand what it is like to be an adopted daughter of the most high loving and caring Father...

This will be a story for another day, follow through. I will keep you in the loop about my ADOPTION into the Family.

With Love,

Kachel

Inspired to inspire: The Urgency of the Master’s Commission

Inspired to inspire: The Urgency of the Master’s Commission: Do you long for the second coming of Jesus? When will the end come? Matthew 24:14, “ And this gospel of the kingdom  will be preached in ...

The Urgency of the Master’s Commission

Do you long for the second coming of Jesus? When will the end come?

Matthew 24:14, ^“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Is there a soul in the world that has not received the good news of Christ? Mark 13:10 says: And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. 

A Malaysian young man converted to Christianity and was eager to see his family saved. As he talked to the missionary about his family, he asked, "What can I do for my Buddhist grandmother who died last year? She never heard of Jesus Christ. Is she lost and in hell?" What would you have said to the young man?

Are there people in the world today who have not heard about the saving faith in Jesus? The author of Romans says that no man has excuse because everything that can be known about God is already revealed! Furthermore, Romans 10:14-15 says, "How can they call on the One they've not believed in? How can they believe in One whom they've not heard about? How can they hear without someone preaching to them? How can someone preach unless they are sent? How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news?”

Quoted from The CBN.com,  (Christian Broadcasting Network) "Did you know that 2/3rds of the world's population is still unsaved? And it is estimated that 1.6 billion people have never heard the Gospel -- not even one time." 

According to a recent study (based on the 2010 world population of 6.9 billion) by The Pew Forum, there are:

• 2,173,180,000 Christians (31% of world population), of which 50% are Catholic, 37% Protestant, 12% Orthodox, and 1% other.
• 1,598,510,000 Muslims (23%), of which 87-90% are Sunnis, 10-13% Shia.
• 1,126,500,000 No Religion affiliation (16%): atheists, agnostics and people who do not identify with any particular religion. One-in-five people (20%) in the United States are religiously unaffiliated.
• 1,033,080,000 Hindus (15%), the overwhelming majority (94%) of which live in India.
•    487,540,000 Buddhists (7%), of which half live in China.
•    405,120,000 Folk Religionists (6%): faiths that are closely associated with a particular group of people, ethnicity or tribe.
•       58,110,000 Other Religions (1%): Baha’i faith, Taoism, Jainism, Shintoism, Sikhism, Tenrikyo, Wicca, Zoroastrianism and many others.
•       13,850,000 Jews (0.2%), four-fifths of which live in two countries: United States (41%) and Israel (41%).

If the above research is anything to go by then, there is a sense of urgency to take evangelism seriously!

Who is responsible? Jesus commissioned every BELIEVER. Look at these verses:

Matthew 28:18-20, Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” In that power and authority He commanded, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,.... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Marks 16:15-18, He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.... And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; ¹⁸ they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Luke 24: 46-48, The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, ⁴⁷ and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. ⁴⁸ You are witnesses of these things. ⁴⁹ I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” John 20:21-23, Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you.” ²² And with that He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³ If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” Acts 1:8, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

If you are a believer in Jesus, you must acknowledge the urgency of preaching the good news. You must do something, that is, you MUST share the good news of salvation through faith in the blood of Jesus. Start in Jerusalem, right where you are, in your home/family, in your neighbourhood, in your college/school, in the city and be willing and ready to cross the borders to the uttermost/remote parts of the earth till every ear hears and every soul calls upon the name of the Lord Jesus for salvation.

This is very urgent!

Kachel

The Blood of the Lamb

After the Garisa university attack a few months ago, News papers& Social media ran two very interesting stories. One of th stories was about a student who drank body lotion for two days to survive. Another story was about the one student who smeared herself with blood of dead student in order to survive. 

The second story is very paramount.... This student smeared herself with her dead friend's blood and played dead for hours if not days! Thank God she was saved to tell the story! Now,this is what am trying to illustrate: In Exodus 12, the blood of the Passover Lamb was smeared on the door frames to save the firstborn son of each Hebrew family from death. The blood of Christ has accomplished everything for me and you. Firstly and above all else, without the shedding of Jesus blood there's no remission of sins. Secondly, smeared with and immersed in the blood of Jesus you and I are safe and blessed. His blood speaks better things. Are you washed in the soul cleansing blood of Jesus? Are you soaked, immersed in, covered and smeared with the blood of the Lamb? 

There's power in the blood of Jesus. This name Jesus is a bloody name, call on this name and be saved. 

With love,
Kachel