ACK Gatunguru Confirmation Service and Kitchen OpeningSermon: The Two Paths and Wisdoms: A Call to Choose Life
Scripture Readings: Psalm 1; Mark 9; James 3-4
Two Paths: Which Will You Choose?
Psalm 1 offers a powerful contrast between two paths:
- The Path of the Righteous leads to a blessed and flourishing life. Those who walk this path are like trees planted by streams of water, constantly nourished.
- The Path of the Wicked, however, is fleeting and destructive, like chaff blown by the wind. This way ultimately leads to ruin.
The final words of the psalm are a striking reminder: God watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.
The Power of Humility: Uplifted or Destined to Fall?
In Mark 9, Jesus teaches us that there are two ways to approach life:
- The Way of Humility: Those who humble themselves will be uplifted by God. Jesus shows us that true greatness comes from serving others.
- The Way of Pride: Those who seek to exalt themselves will be brought low.
Bishop urged Christians to walk the path of humility, as it is the only way to experience true upliftment by God.
Two Wisdoms: Earthly vs. Heavenly
James 3-4 presents a compelling choice between two kinds of wisdom:
- Earthly Wisdom: Driven by selfish ambition and envy, this wisdom leads to disorder and every evil practice.
- Heavenly Wisdom: This wisdom is pure, peace-loving, and full of mercy and good fruit. James outlines four key characteristics of heavenly wisdom:
- Submissive: True wisdom surrenders to God’s will, obeying His Word and walking in His ways.
- Resistive: Heavenly wisdom empowers believers to resist the devil, who lurks in every corner. Christians must stand firm and resist his tricks.
The bishop referenced The Blue Kanyoni by Wangui from Kiangombe, a story about a woman tempted to visit a witch doctor. This is a reminder to resist the enemy’s deception. (Get a copy from the bishop—the story is relevant to many real-life struggles faced by Christians today). - Draws Us Closer to God: Heavenly wisdom brings us into deeper fellowship with God. We do this by reading His Word, praying constantly, and sharing testimonies of His goodness.
- Purifies: Heavenly wisdom cleanses our hearts and minds from sin, making us more like Christ.
A Call to Choose Heavenly Wisdom
James warns us that earthly wisdom leads to death, while heavenly wisdom leads to life. The choice is clear: choose the way of God, cleanse your heart, and come closer to Him.
Final Appeal: An Invitation to Salvation
The bishop concluded with a heartfelt altar call, urging the congregation to choose life in Christ. He invited those present to accept Jesus as their personal Savior, emphasizing that it’s never too late to come to Jesus.
