Present Truth # 1
God's Letter to You

Heaven's Pledge - Our Assurance
At some stage in life, individuals question their existence and purpose in life. A young mind generally has hopes and aspirations for the future. A discontented or discouraged mind finds it hard to accept a purpose or reason for life. Then there are the lonely, the empty, the unhappy. How can your life become more fulfilling, healthy, interesting? What lies after death? Is it possible to receive eternal life? Human hearts of every walk of life question the uncertain, yet desire an answer to satisfy their needs of security and contentment. No doubt at times such questions enter your mind. Are there answers to life's vital questions? Where can you find them? We all have some beliefs or ideas, but how accurate are they? No book ever written reveals so well the answer to these and many other fundamental questions except the Holy Bible. It reveals how life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest. This is a promise.

Who Wrote the Bible?
Some critics have claimed that the Bible is only a book written by ordinary men, and therefore is just like any other book. The first part of this assertion is partly true but the latter is false. Yes, the book was written by men, but they had one different characteristic to most authors.

“ . . . holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.

God selected righteous men to pen His messages. They were not naturally creative writers, but events and messages were recorded as they were revealed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. Visions and thoughts were received and these holy men, knowing these were from God, faithfully wrote in their own language what they were shown.

Thus there is a variety of style and of expression in the Bible, but no contradictions. There is a common theme throughout the collection of writings and a unity of beliefs.

“The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2.

No one was entrusted to write God’s sacred messages without receiving divine assistance.

Actually the Bible is a compendium of books and its real Author is the Almighty. Throughout all these sacred writings is the theme of salvation from sin and its consequences, if we accept God's provisions and counsels.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

The Scriptures also tell us of God and His loving character. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

Divisions
Sixty-six books were written by nearly 40 writers during a period of approximately 1,600 years. Thirty-nine of the books constitute what is known as the Old Testament and twenty-seven comprise the New Testament. Whenever Jesus referred to Scripture, He quoted the Old Testament (the New Testament had not yet been written).

The Old Testament has three major sections. Jesus said, “. . . These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44.

“The law of Moses” refers to the first five books of the Bible. They were written by Moses and are often referred to as “the law,” because they contain all the laws that were given to ancient Israel. The ceremonial laws were symbolic and terminated at the cross. But there is far more to “Moses” than just the ceremonial system. Primarily it consists of the doctrines and principles of establishing God's church on earth. First there is the moral law as given by God Himself, then nature's laws, health, and doctrines of order and organization.

“The prophets” refer to all the prophetic books. Some books in other classifications also have prophetic sections but, for ease of identification, each book is only placed in one category. For instance, Jesus used this type of terminology when talking with two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

One of the most compelling tests of the authenticity of the Scriptures is the evidence of prophecy, for true prophecy is the recording of history in advance. Many of the prophecies of the Bible were written hundreds of years before their fulfilment, others are occurring now, some refer to our future. So important is prophecy that God challenges anyone to accurately predict the future in detail as He does.

“Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.” Isaiah 41:21-23.

“Psalms” or poetry. The poetical books are Job, the Song of Solomon, and the Psalms. Some translations of the Bible record all the poetical sections in poetical format rather than prose. Although the meter is lost in translation from the original language, the beauty, majesty and pathos of the poetry of the Bible is still apparent and may be readily appreciated.

The Power and Purpose of the Bible
The power of God's word is demonstrated in many ways. When we scan the heavens and behold the sun, moon, planets and the myriads of stars, all orbiting their appointed trajectory through the immense expanse of space, we are witnessing the power of the Word of God!

“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9.

Yet a still greater power is contained in the living Word. Jesus, the son of God said, “. . . the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. What is this power? What is its purpose?

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.

“The word” has within itself power, deep, abiding, and eternal. It leads us to see ourselves as we really are. It searches our inmost failures and yearnings, and provides the power to raise us from the lowest degradation. It has power which is able to make and keep men right, something we cannot do for ourselves. The Bible is able to transform our character and to make each person radiant, joyous, and full of hope.

The Psalmist testified of this marvelous transforming power: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11.

How long will the word of God endure? Christ declared: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35.

Comparing the short life span of man with the Word of God, the apostle Peter wrote: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever . . . ” 1 Peter 1:24, 25.

On the midst of all the turmoil and strife of this present age, the Bible stands as an immovable, unchangeable beacon, with its light pointing to the true haven. It is a teacher and counselor of the highest order.

Can Everyone Understand the Bible?
For centuries it has been claimed by the clergy that the Bible should not be read by lay members because only learned theologians are able to interpret its doctrines. This withholding of the Scriptures from the people resulted in an intellectual, spiritual, and moral decline known, today, as the “Dark Ages.” “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6.

Contrary to the stated belief of “the clergy,” “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130.

Therefore, the Word of God is not only for intellectuals to understand, but if studied and obeyed, it will ennoble and elevate the humble searcher for truth, whatever his station in life. Christ declared that God's Word was more readily understood by those of open minds “babies” in trusting and absorbing just what God says, than by those who claim to be “wise.”

“At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” Matthew 11:25.

Often men of considerable learning, whether secular or theological, are too proud to admit wrong and thus disqualify themselves from understanding the truth of God. This is clearly illustrated in the Bible by the attitude of the learned scribes and Pharisees toward the teachings and person of Christ. Although they had theoretical knowledge, they could not accept the truth being presented to them.

The Lord sees those who are humbly seeking for truth: “. . . to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2.

As we have read before, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” In other words, the “Spirit of God” gave the messages to the various writers. In order to understand the Word of God aright, we need this same Spirit to guide our mind when we read the Bible.

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13.

The written Word of God is God's voice speaking to us. It should always be treated with respect and should be studied with genuine desire to understand truth and its messages. Time spent searching the Scriptures should be regarded as time being spent in contact with the Divine. Therefore, before opening your Bible always pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and believe that you will be directed and taught aright.

Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations of the Bible?
This question is often asked by skeptics as an argument that the Bible is unreliable. But are they right? What is the key to true understanding?

One reason is given by the apostle Peter: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16.

In addition the Bible reproves sin and lays open the hidden secrets of the heart. This is not agreeable to our human nature which seeks to obscure the Scripture's plain explanations. The apostle Paul prophesied: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, have itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.

It is impossible to come to a right understanding of the Bible if our hearts are not changed, because sinful human nature is opposed to the Spirit of God. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14.

Today men are eagerly seeking for personal advantage. For the sake of gaining riches, honor or power, they place the maxims, traditions and requirements of men above the requirements of God. From such the treasures of God's word are hidden.

Obedience is one key to a true understanding of the Scriptures. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17.

The Theme of Bible Inspiration
Many books have a central figure around which the story is woven. The Bible too has a central person in both the Old and New Testaments. Jesus said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

When conversing with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus after His resurrection, Jesus explained this vital truth to them: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

Will There Always Be Opportunity to Study God's Word?
Many people put off searching the Scriptures until they retire, or to some other time in the future. But they are making a fatal mistake!

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13.

This wonderful book—the Bible—will soon be of no use for men. There will be no more opportunities to understand it or to obey its teachings. The Holy Spirit will not then be available to help people know the truth. Nevertheless, today we still have opportunity. There is still time to become acquainted with God's plan for us.

Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference.

Gods Creation,100 / evolution, 0
THE INCREDIBLE DESIGN OF PILOT WHALE SKIN

Ships traveling through the ocean have to be regularly cleaned because barnacles attach themselves to the hull. If enough build up, they create drag and reduce the ship’s efficiency.

Whales can have the same problem. Barnacles are commonly seen clinging to the skin of several whale species, sometimes in large numbers. Some barnacles are even specially adapted for life attached to whales.

But pilot whales are remarkably free of them.

Researchers studying pilot whale skin discovered that part of the answer may be found at the microscopic level. The skin contains tiny pores surrounded by structures called nanoridges. Along with these structures, the skin produces a gel-like material with antifouling and antimicrobial properties.

Together, these features make it difficult for barnacle larvae to establish a secure grip while also helping protect the skin from microorganisms.

Human engineers have taken notice. Researchers have studied pilot whale skin for ideas that could lead to better antifouling surfaces for ships, potentially preventing barnacles from attaching in the first place.

Think about that. Intelligent engineers face a difficult problem, discover that a whale already has an effective solution, study how it works, and then deliberately try to copy it.

We recognize intelligence when humans imitate the system, yet we're told the original arose through unguided evolutionary processes.

From a biblical perspective, there is no mystery about why nature contains engineering that repeatedly inspires our own. The creatures filling our oceans are the workmanship of a Creator whose wisdom far exceeds our own.

“O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.” — Psalm 104:24

The Heart of Prayer: Knowing God as Our Heavenly Father

One of the greatest parts of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount is His teaching about prayer. In Matthew 6:9, Jesus gives His disciples a powerful revelation about our relationship with God:

“Pray, then, in this way:
‘Our Father who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.’” — Matthew 6:9

Every word of this prayer carries deep meaning for those who long to know God and develop a personal relationship with Him. Jesus teaches us that we can approach the Almighty God as our Heavenly Father. This is a timeless truth for every generation and reveals the loving heart of God toward His children.

Jesus Himself revealed His unique relationship with the Father. He said, “The Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing” (John 5:19). He also declared, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working” (John 5:17). In John 10:36, Jesus spoke of Himself as the Son of God, a truth that religious leaders of His day rejected and considered blasphemous.

Jesus came into the world to reveal the Father’s divine nature, love, grace, mercy, and plan of redemption. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He opened the way for us to know God personally.

When Jesus teaches us to pray, “Our Father who is in heaven,” He begins with relationship. Then He says, “Hallowed be Your name.” This means that our deepest desire should be that God’s name be honored, magnified, and glorified through our lives. Prayer is not merely asking God for what we need; it is surrendering our hearts to His will.

Our Heavenly Father loves us, cares for us, forgives us, provides for us, and brings salvation, joy, and peace through Jesus Christ. Therefore, let us approach Him with the humble heart of a child, calling Him Father, seeking His will, and living to glorify His name.

Love God, love people, and let your life glorify your Heavenly Father.

DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 244
DATE: 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026
TOPIC: BECOMING BEFORE DOING_1
ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 1:26 (NKJV)
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion.
Devotional message:

The Bible records that God created man in His image and according to His likeness. This means that it is in our becoming like Him, through being conformed to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ, that we are able to function according to His nature and purposes. As we become like Christ, we are positioned to represent Him accurately and function in the authority He has entrusted to us.

It is our becoming like Him that positions us to exercise authority over principalities, powers, and rulers of darkness and to function in dominion over creation. You cannot effectively exercise authority over something you are yourself a captive of.

Therefore, before we focus on walking in power, healing the sick, casting out demons, and walking in dominion, we must first prioritize becoming like Christ.

Many of the things we desire from God are by-products of our becoming. As Christ is formed in us, our character, conduct, authority, and influence begin to reflect Him. Therefore, our greatest pursuit should not merely be what we can do for God, but who we are becoming in Him.

In the coming days, we shall continue looking at this series on BECOMING LIKE CHRIST and discover why becoming must come before doing, and why Christlikeness should remain at the centre of our walk with God.

God is more interested in who we are becoming than merely what we are doing. As we become like Christ, our authority, influence, character, and works should flow from that transformation.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,Conform me to the image of Your Son and let my character, conduct, and life reflect Jesus. May everything that flows through me be a product of what You are doing within me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING
Gen 1:26–28,Rom 8:28–29,2 Cor 3:17–18,Ephe 4:20–24,Gal 4:19

Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Contact :
Email : DominionvoicesminisrtyAnderson Mwila.com
Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026
© Dominion Voices Ministry

The prophets understood and warned us all.

”When we think the curse for violating God's Law is too severe, it's because we don't understand God or the nature of sin.”
Jerry Bridges

Romans 11:

"1 I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.
2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,
3 Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.
4 But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.
5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.
7 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded
8 (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.
9 And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:
10 Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway.
11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.
12 Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?
13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.
15 For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?
16 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.
17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;
18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.
19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.
20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.
22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.
24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:
31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.
32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen."

Soil Regeneration, Carbon, and Why Healthy Soil Matters

Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving ecosystem. Without healthy soil, forests decline, crops become weaker, water is lost more quickly, and biodiversity decreases.

At Two Roots Garden Cambodia, we believe that restoring soil is one of the most important actions we can take for the future of people and nature.

What Is Soil Regeneration?

Soil regeneration is the process of rebuilding living, fertile soil through natural biological processes rather than depending primarily on synthetic fertilizers.

Instead of simply feeding plants, we focus on feeding the entire soil ecosystem, including bacteria, fungi, earthworms, insects, and countless other organisms. These living communities recycle nutrients, improve soil structure, and help plants grow naturally.

Healthy soil is alive.

A single teaspoon of healthy soil can contain billions of microorganisms working together to support plant life.

Soil and Carbon

Plants remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere through photosynthesis.

They use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars that fuel their growth.

A significant portion of these sugars is transferred through the roots into the soil, where microorganisms convert some of this carbon into stable soil organic matter. This process stores carbon in the ground and helps build healthier soils.

When land is degraded through erosion, repeated burning, excessive tillage, or the loss of vegetation, much of this stored carbon can be released back into the atmosphere.

Regenerative farming practices help increase soil organic matter, which supports soil health and can contribute to greater long-term carbon storage.

Why Organic Matter Matters

Organic matter acts like nature's sponge.

It helps the soil:

- Store more water.
- Improve drainage during heavy rain.
- Reduce erosion.
- Feed soil organisms.
- Supply nutrients to plants.
- Build stable soil structure.
- Increase resilience during drought.

As organic matter increases, soils generally become healthier and more productive.

The Carbon Cycle in Our Garden

Every leaf, branch, root, and piece of mulch plays a role in the carbon cycle.

Instead of burning plant material or throwing it away, we return it to the soil.

Through composting, mulching, pruning, and careful biomass management, plant material is recycled into new life.

This creates a continuous cycle of growth, decomposition, and renewal.

In nature, nothing is wasted.

Biochar and Long-Term Carbon Storage

At Two Roots Garden, we also use biochar where appropriate.

Biochar is charcoal produced from plant material under low-oxygen conditions.

When added correctly to biologically active soil, biochar can improve water retention, provide habitat for beneficial microorganisms, and contribute to long-term carbon storage.

It works best when combined with compost or other organic materials rather than used on its own.

Why This Matters for Cambodia

Healthy soils can help farms and gardens become more resilient.

Regenerating soil can:

- Improve food production.
- Reduce erosion during heavy rains.
- Increase water-holding capacity during dry periods.
- Support biodiversity.
- Reduce dependence on expensive external inputs.
- Strengthen local food security.
- Improve the long-term productivity of family gardens.

What Volunteers Can Do

Every volunteer contributes to soil regeneration by:

- Applying mulch.
- Making compost.
- Planting diverse species.
- Protecting bare soil.
- Returning biomass to the land.
- Avoiding unnecessary disturbance.
- Observing and caring for the living soil.

Every handful of compost, every tree planted, and every layer of mulch contributes to a healthier ecosystem.

Healthy soil is more than dirt beneath our feet—it is a living community that supports forests, farms, wildlife, and people. By restoring soil, we help create resilient landscapes that can nourish future generations while supporting biodiversity and storing more carbon over time.

Most of us are now living with undue stress and fear. however the let’s see how the holy scripture helps us to understand “Fear”


The Bible contains several verses that encourage us not to be fearful, reminding us of God’s presence, support, and the strength He provides. Here are a few key verses along with their context and meaning.

1. Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
This verse comes during a time when Israel faced overwhelming challenges. God reassures His people that, despite their circumstances, they should not fear because He is with them. The promise of His presence is foundational; knowing that God walks beside us alleviates fear. He offers strength, help, and upholding through His righteous hand. This verse can serve as a powerful reminder that we are never alone in our struggles.

2. 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Here, Paul writes to Timothy, encouraging him to embrace the gifts God has given rather than succumbing to fear. This verse emphasizes that the nature of God’s spirit is not fear, but rather empowerment through love and sound judgment. It reinforces the idea that Christians are equipped to face challenges with courage, given the strength and wisdom from God.

3. Matthew 10:31: “Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
In this passage, Jesus reassures His followers of their value in God's eyes. He reminds them that if God cares for even the sparrows, which are of little worth, then He will surely care for them. The call not to fear is tied to our identity as beloved children of God. This reassurance fosters a sense of worth and confidence, knowing that God watches over us.

Each of these verses emphasizes a central theme: God’s presence and care dispel fear. Rather than allowing fear to govern our responses and decisions, we are encouraged to draw on the power, love, and the sound mind that God provides. This understanding can bring comfort and strength in our challenges, guiding us to rest in the assurance of His protection and love.

Guidelines for living.
August 31st, 2026

What is a Creed?

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

The industrialist Henry Ford used to say that he knew the Church was a divine institution because, contended Ford, no other organization so poorly organized and run would have survived for 2000 years. Going beyond the satire of what he said, there is a measure of truth in his statement.

After the resurrection, the followers of Jesus were left without an organization, with no financial base, and really without an organized plan for survival and growth. They had no buildings, no leader, and no game plan. It was almost fifteen years before Saul - known to history as the Apostle Paul - came on the scene. What held them together? What gave them cohesiveness?

John, one of the youngest of the Twelve, partly answered that question at the end of his life. He wrote, "We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us" (1 John 1:3). Simply put, two things were the basis of agreement and fellowship: what they had seen, and what they had heard, which began to be passed from generation to generation.

One of the challenges confronting the church is this old issue: What brings us together and what keeps us together? Music won't do it anymore; neither will a unified translation of the Bible, though the Bible itself is our age-abiding source of authority and belief. But is there more?

Shortly after the resurrection of Christ, men and women from different parts of the world began asking, "What do we really believe?" and "Is it the same everywhere?" The answers to those questions are contained in what are called the creeds of the church. Like you, perhaps, in the early years of my Christian experience, I thought of creeds and statements of faith as things that were rather dull and boring, of a historical nature. I wanted life and liberty.

But eventually I came to appreciate the fact that the historical creeds of the church are something like the steel or iron bands that held the staves of an old-fashioned wooden barrel together. Remember the old wooden barrels of bygone years that held cider and apples and that sort of produce? Around the world there are different groups with different cultures and sometimes differing views of the truth of God's Word. They are much like the staves of a barrel, but the concise statements of creeds are like the iron bands that hold it all together. Within is the treasure of what God has revealed in His Word.

In an age of diversity and fragmentation, we need to know what is important and why, which means taking a look at what has been believed from the days of the Early Church to the present.

The earliest creed or statement of faith was included in Paul's letter to the Corinthians about 56 AD. He wrote, "For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Pretty simple: Christ died, He was buried, He rose again the third day.

Over a period of years, especially when someone came along with strange or heretical beliefs, Christians said, "Whoa! Wait a minute! We don't believe that!" and they called church councils who took a hard look at what was commonly believed to be true, and the statement of faith expanded.

Usually, the councils of the church simply recognized what God's Holy Spirit had universally impressed upon people. What do you believe, anyway? It's an issue of tremendous importance, and you need to know.

Resource Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-19

Conflict and Courage.
Daniel 1

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 9:27.
As God called Daniel to witness for Him in Babylon, so He calls us to be His witnesses in the world today. In the smallest as well as the largest affairs of life, He desires us to reveal to men the principles of His kingdom. Many are waiting for some great work to be brought to them, while daily they lose opportunities for revealing faithfulness to God. Daily they fail of discharging with wholeheartedness the little duties of life....

In the life of the true Christian there are no nonessentials; in the sight of Omnipotence every duty is important. The Lord measures with exactness every possibility for service. The unused capabilities are just as much brought into account as those that are used. We shall be judged by what we ought to have done, but did not accomplish because we did not use our powers to glorify God.

A noble character is not the result of accident; it is not due to special favors or endowments of Providence. It is the result of self-discipline, of subjection of the lower to the higher nature, of the surrender of self to the service of God and man....

The body is a most important medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers....

The body is to be brought into subjection to the higher powers of the being. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified, by divine grace, is to bear sway in the life. Intellectual power, physical stamina, and the length of life depend upon immutable laws. Through obedience to these laws, man may stand conqueror of himself, conqueror of his own inclinations, conqueror of ... “the rulers of the darkness of this world,” and of “spiritual wickedness in high places.” 51Prophets and Kings, 487-489.