How to Fast for God

What Does the Christian Bible Say About Suicide?

What Does the Christian Bible Say About Suicide?The Bible does not explicitly address suicide as it is understood today, but it provides teachings about the sanctity of life and the value of hope in God. The Bible affirms that life is a gift from God, and it encourages believers to seek God’s help in times of despair, rather than resorting to taking their own lives.The Sanctity of LifeIn Psalm 139:13-16, David expresses the value of human life, saying, "For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb." This passage emphasizes that life is precious to God, and He is intimately involved in the creation and purpose of each person.Hope in Times of DespairIn 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul speaks of God as the "God of all comfort" who comforts us in our trials, so that we can comfort others. The Bible teaches that, even in the darkest moments, believers are encouraged to turn to God for comfort and healing rather than giving in to despair.Why This MattersThe Bible calls believers to value life, trust in God’s promises, and seek help when facing despair or suicidal thoughts. Suicide is not the answer, and the Bible encourages people to find hope, comfort, and healing in God’s presence.

What Are the Denominations of Christianity?

Understanding the Denominations of ChristianityChristianity has a rich and diverse history, resulting in various denominations that share core beliefs while differing in doctrine, worship styles, and practices. These denominations can broadly be categorized into:Roman Catholicism: The largest Christian denomination, emphasizing tradition, the sacraments, and the authority of the Pope.Protestantism: Includes denominations such as Baptists, Lutherans, Methodists, and Presbyterians, focusing on scripture as the ultimate authority (2 Timothy 3:16).Orthodox Christianity: Known for its ancient liturgical traditions and emphasis on icons and the teachings of early church fathers.Key DifferencesDenominations often differ in areas such as baptism, the Eucharist, and governance. For example, Protestants emphasize faith alone for salvation, while Catholics include works as part of faith.Unity Amid DiversityDespite these differences, most denominations affirm essential Christian beliefs, including the divinity of Jesus, the resurrection, and salvation through Him (John 14:6).Why Denominations ExistDenominations reflect Christianity’s adaptability across cultures and eras, allowing believers to express their faith in unique ways while remaining united in Christ.

Are the Members of the Episcopal Church’s General Committee Paid?

Do Episcopal Church General Committee Members Receive Payment?The Episcopal Church’s governance structure includes various committees and councils, such as the General Convention, which oversees the church’s policies and mission. Whether members of these committees receive payment depends on the specific role they hold and the scope of their responsibilities.Understanding Roles and CompensationClergy and Staff: Clergy and staff who serve in administrative or advisory capacities may receive salaries or stipends aligned with church policies.Lay Volunteers: Many committee members, especially laypersons, volunteer their time without financial compensation. However, expenses such as travel, lodging, and meals during meetings are often reimbursed.Professional Consultants: In some cases, external experts or consultants hired to support committee activities may receive payment for their services.Biblical Perspective on Compensation1 Timothy 5:18 supports fair compensation for work: "The labourer is worthy of his reward." This principle is often reflected in church practices, balancing stewardship with respect for the contributions of those who serve.While financial payment is not guaranteed for all roles, members of the General Committee contribute significantly to the church’s governance and mission, whether compensated or not. Their dedication reflects a commitment to serving the church community in alignment with God’s calling.

What Is the NIV Bible?

What Is the NIV Bible? The New International Version (NIV) is one of the most popular and widely used modern translations of the Bible. First published in 1978, the NIV aims to balance accuracy with readability, making it accessible to a broad audience. The Philosophy Behind the NIV The NIV is considered a "dynamic equivalence" translation, meaning it focuses on conveying the meaning of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts in clear, contemporary language. Unlike "literal" translations like the NASB, which strive for word-for-word accuracy, the NIV emphasizes understanding while preserving the essence of the original scriptures. Key Features of the NIV Some of the distinctive features of the NIV include: Readability: The NIV is known for its smooth and easy-to-read text, making it ideal for personal devotion, study, and public reading.Faithfulness to the Original: While focusing on readability, the NIV remains faithful to the original manuscripts and attempts to retain the meaning of the text.Inclusive Language: The NIV uses gender-neutral language where appropriate, aiming to reflect the inclusivity of the original texts. Common Usage The NIV is frequently used in churches, personal devotions, and Bible study groups. Its accessible style makes it suitable for both new believers and seasoned Christians. Scriptural Foundation The NIV accurately reflects key biblical truths, such as Romans 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”