Category Archives: Religion

Religion

Life in God’s Kingdom

United Faith Church
Q&A Interview on the Kingdom of God with United Faith Church in Barnegat NJ – United Faith Church is led by Pastors Jerry and Janeth Santiago.

1. What is the Kingdom of God?

The Kingdom of God is the greatest, most powerful entity that ever was, is, and will be. The Bible refers to God’s Kingdom as the “Kingdom of Heaven,” the “Kingdom of Christ,” and the “Kingdom of God,” and they are all one and the same, describing an eternal, spiritual Kingdom that rules over all other kingdoms, powers, and governments- past, present, and future. We know from scripture that God the Father gave all authority over the heavens and earth into the hands of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:27, John 3:35). The Kingdom of God operates according to God’s ways, God’s timing, and God’s promises. It is unseen, yet governs over all that is visible, and those who find it truly find the “pearl of great worth” (Matthew 13:46).

2. Where is the Kingdom of God?

Is God’s Kingdom in Heaven? Is it here on earth? Can it be found in the hearts of men? Yes, yes, and yes. The Son, Jesus Christ, is seated at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, and the Holy Spirit has been sent to the earth to dwell in the hearts of men. The Bible states that Heaven is God’s throne and the earth is His footstool (Isaiah 66:1). EVERYTHING, EVERYWHERE belongs to God and is subject to Him. Therefore, God’s Kingdom can be experienced right here on earth, right now. This is why we pray, Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven (Matthew 6:10). When Jesus was asked when the Kingdom would come, he responded, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:20-21).

3. Why does Jesus use parables to describe the Kingdom?

It is difficult for our finite minds to grasp God. Jesus often used parables to help people envision just how immense, how powerful, and how miraculous the Kingdom of God truly is. The parables give clues into the characteristics, rules, promises, and eternal blessings of this supernatural Kingdom. For example, He speaks of it being a “hidden treasure,” that a man would seek out, spend everything he had to attain, and then boast about it to everyone he knows. Other parables speak of the righteous being separated from the evil in the end times, indicating that the Kingdom of God ultimately has the final say.

4. Who lives in the Kingdom of God?

The Kingdom of God is for those to whom God reveals it. Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” God is Spirit- His Kingdom is a spiritual Kingdom. Jesus states that to be born again is to be birthed by the Holy Spirit. As the chapter continues, John states that whoever lives by the truth comes into the light of God. Jesus is the Truth, He is the Light, and He is the Way to the Father. Those who have been born again by the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ, enter into the light, which is the presence of God. They trust and obey God because they can see His light, and it transforms them daily into His image. They see what the world can’t. They see God’s triumphant Kingdom.

5. How is the Kingdom of God different from the world?

The Kingdom of God is strikingly opposite of how the world works in the most incredible ways. When men tried to put the world’s rules and regulations on Jesus, he confounded them with God’s ways every time. When the Pharisees asked, “Doesn’t your teacher pay temple tax?” Jesus first pointed out the injustice of their ways, then demonstrated the Kingdom’s power over not only all the money in the world, but over nature itself when he sent a disciple to catch a fish and pull a coin from its mouth in order to pay the tax. On the verge of execution, when Pontius Pilate thought he had the power to decide Jesus’ fate, Jesus corrected him stating, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.” And of course we know the rest of the story… not even death, hell, or the grave could keep Jesus from rising victoriously. Those in God’s kingdom know that He is in charge of their lives no matter what trouble is happening in the world… that everything they have belongs to God… that their very lives are for Him, to serve Him and do His works. Pastors Jerry and Janeth Santiago have witnessed the power of the Kingdom of God through many miracles in the lives of their family and many others in United Faith Church.

6. What does it mean to be Kingdom-minded?

To be Kingdom-minded is to walk in the light in the midst of a dark world. To be in the light means to always be aware of God’s presence, seeing what He’s doing, hearing what He’s saying, seeking Him, following His leading, and forever worshiping and thanking Him for His goodness in everything. The Kingdom-minded view trouble in their lives as an opportunity for God to stretch them and grow them to be more like Jesus. They have the mind of Christ- always moving and growing from glory to glory, in obedience to God, the Father. United Faith Church has seen through Pastors Jerry and Janeth Santiago’s lives the great value in setting their minds on things above (Colossians 2:3). When our minds are set on God, the supernatural is possible; no matter what the situation or circumstance may be… God is faithful.

7. How do I know I’m living in God’s Kingdom?

A simple test can indicate very quickly if we are living in God’s Kingdom, and it is found in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” For all who are living for the Kingdom of God, this is their vision for life and can be seen in everything they do. Their hearts race, their minds contemplate, and their bodies move swiftly for all things God! No longer are they preoccupied with the worries, cares, and attractions of this life on earth because those living for the Kingdom know that this world is not their home and will pass away. They are working to influence this world through the transforming power of God as they live to store up eternal treasures in Heaven, where their lives actually begin as they are united with their Father and with one another.

8. What are the benefits of living in the Kingdom of God?

Everyone wants to be around a winner. Those who live in the Kingdom rest assured that God’s Team is the winning team. This is what Paul meant when he said in Romans 8:31, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” In the Kingdom of God, God is king and he reigns in truth, justice, and mercy. Those who live in his kingdom reap the endless benefits of coming to know the Creator of the Universe. They do not need to worry about what they will eat, drink, or wear because God is the provider of everything they might need (Matthew 6). The ultimate benefit of living in the Kingdom of God is the great reward of being connected to Jesus. In God’s Kingdom there is light to see clearly the path to knowing Him and any traps or stumbling blocks that try to get in the way. The King is on their side and nothing is more powerful. They run to Him in danger, and He fights their battles and wins! Those in God’s Kingdom know His goodness, faithfulness, and power over all things. Their Daddy is ALWAYS bigger.

In God’s Kingdom, there is endless provision, blessings, favor, healing, restoration, power, love, and joy. United Faith Church has learned from Pastor Janeth Santiago and her family that the Kingdom of God is steadfast and sure, and when everything in the world fades away, God’s Kingdom will remain. The Kingdom of God endures forever and, therefore, the benefits are endless for those who trust and obey their God, who is King over all.

United Faith Church is led by Pastors Jerry and Janeth Santiago. For more info and articles, please visit www.unitedfaithchurch.org

Religion

Mendel Mintz Discusses the Ski to Live Program

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Mendel Mintz is executive director of the Chabad Jewish Community Center, which brings the Aspen Jewish community together. Several years ago, Mendel Mintz began a program called Golshim L’Chaim: Ski to Live, a program that brings wounded Israeli veterans to Aspen for a week of skiing and healing. Below, Rabbi Mendel Mintz answers questions about Ski to Live, a program that recently caught the attention of a documentary filmmaker.

Q: You founded Ski to Live several years ago. Can you explain the program?

Mendel Mintz: I’d be happy to! Golshim L’Chaim brings wounded Israeli veterans to Aspen for a week each year for Ski to Live. We teach them to ski and snowboard, as well as provide the experience to meet the great Jewish community at the center.

Q: You provide lodging and meals to these veterans while they’re in town?

Mendel Mintz: Yes, they stay with us while they’re in town and we provide all meals.

Q: How does the Chabad Community Center pay for Golshim L’Chaim?

Mendel Mintz: The program is funded through generous donations of our members and other members of the Jewish community who recognize the important role these soldiers played in defending their homeland.

Q: Tell us a little about Beyond the Boundaries.

Mendel Mintz: Beyond the Bound is a film that chronicles the journey of four injured Israeli vets as they travel to Colorado to participate in Golshim L’Chaim. It was directed by an award-winning director and it has been making the rounds of film festivals around the world. Nina Zale produced it and I highly recommend people see this inspiring film.

Q: Ski to Live isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding, is it?

Mendel Mintz: Ski to Live helps these veterans develop self-esteem and confidence, as well as give them a newfound feeling of independence and accomplishment.

Q: How much does it cost to bring soldiers over for Golshim L’Chaim: Ski to Live?

Mendel Mintz: The cost of sponsoring only one soldier for the week is $5,000, so every donation is put to good use.

Q: How do I get involved?

Mendel Mintz: To donate, go to jccaspen.com and fill out the form. Your money will go toward the 2013 Golshim L’Chaim: Ski to Live.

Rabbi Mendel Mintz lives in Aspen, where he helps inspire and educate the Jewish community. Mendel Mintz and the Chabad Community Center welcomes Jews of all backgrounds.

Religion

God’s Luv International Ministries Church: Going Too Far to Get the Power

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God’s Luv International Ministries Church’s Dr. Pierre Bennett has played many roles over the course of his life, but he values none more than his role as an Apostle for his Creator. As founder of God’s Luv International Ministries Church, Dr. Bennett and his congregation are carrying out a vision of worldwide ministry.

Dr. Bennett took time from his leadership of God’s Luv International Ministries Church to talk to the staff of Zrylw about the fruitless struggle for power that exists in so much of today’s world.

Zrylw: Many people turn to God for worldly successes, but you regularly explain during your sermons at God’s Luv International Ministries Church that those people usually aren’t ready for those successes yet.

Dr. Pierre Bennett: As I tell my congregation at God’s Luv International Ministries Church, there’s a difference between the things we want for fleshly purposes and the gifts we receive as a product of being in a better place, spiritually.

Zrylw: At God’s Luv International Ministries Church, you talk about a jealousy of sorts related to faith.

Dr. Pierre Bennett: In my God’s Luv International Ministries Church sermons, I use the term “glow.” I mention that others might see that glow you have once you’ve gotten to that place of enlightenment. Others will see that and decidedly want what you have, whether or not they fully understand it. It is this principle that is the foundation of God’s Luv International Ministries Church’s ministry to others: a sort of “leading-by-example”, so to speak.

Zrylw:  In order to get that glow, they have to turn to God, Himself.

Dr. Pierre Bennett: Exactly. It is only in going to God and turning themselves over to Him that they can get that glow themselves, as I explain to my God’s Luv International Ministries Church members.

Zrylw:  I’m assuming this isn’t as easy as it sounds.

Dr. Pierre Bennett: It’s often a long journey, but I see some who come to God’s Luv International Ministries Church who want to take a shortcut to salvation. They feel that by latching onto someone who already has that goal, they can find the way themselves.

Zrylw: What advice do you give your members at God’s Luv International Ministries Church on how to handle that?

Dr. Pierre Bennett: I tell my congregation at God’s Luv International Ministries Church to not take it personally. These people may latch onto them and even try to hurt them once they realize the way to salvation isn’t as easy as just following another believer around. I tell God’s Luv International Ministries Church’s members to consider it  spiritual warfare.

Zrylw: You speak quite a bit about followers getting stuck during your sermons at God’s Luv International Ministries Church.

Dr. Pierre Bennett: In my leadership at God’s Luv International Ministries Church, I’ve found most followers come to a crossroad at some point in their journey. While some progress into the next realm, some simply get stuck without reaching their full purpose..

Zrylw:  Is there a way to get unstuck?

Dr. Pierre Bennett: They must first let go of old baggage. Those who aren’t willing, will likely remain stuck until they decide they are ready. All we, as followers, can do is present a good example and be good educators.

For more information about God’s Luv International Ministries Church, please call (703) 395-1430.

Religion

Apostle Pierre Bennett: The Prayer of Faith

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Apostle Pierre Bennett is the founder and pastor of God’s Luv International Ministries Church, a Virginia-based ministry with services twice a week. God’s Luv International Ministries shares Apostle Pierre Bennett’s vision of a worldwide ministry to help those in need.

Apostle Pierre Bennett explains to his congregation that God wants soldiers. He wants followers who will be there for Him one hundred and ten percent. In return, God will be there for them a thousand percent, Apostle Pierre Bennett says.

You came to God to be saved, but over time, you may have lost your original intent, according to Apostle Pierre Bennett. Being saved is a great retirement plan, Apostle Pierre Bennett believes. It means you’ll have eternal life. There are certainly benefits that come with being saved, but you may find you still aren’t where you want to be in your earthly life, Apostle Pierre Bennett adds.

You may consistently be praying to God though you’ve discovered His greatness and you’re following His Word, but you aren’t yet receiving the blessings you desire the most in your life. Apostle Pierre Bennett knows you’re probably wondering what you can do to bring these blessings. You want to get to that place where you’re fully walking with Him and are ready to receive the blessings He has for you in this life, Apostle Pierre Bennett adds.

God says being truly blessed means abundance, Apostle Pierre Bennett relays. Not just financial prosperity, according to Apostle Pierre Bennett, but abundance in every area of your life – excellent health, loving people around you, healthy happy family, a nice home, good job or career or business. As Apostle Pierre Bennett puts it, there are so many ways to have abundance in your life.

You can think of some people who may seem happy and prosperous but if you look closely into their lives there are usually one or two components that are not complete because they are not walking in the fullness of God.  You can’t have the total package unless you’re walking with the Creator of the total package, teaches Apostle Pierre Bennett.

Professional Profiles, Religion

Dr. Pierre Bennett: Never Give Up

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Dr. Pierre Bennett began his career in military service, eventually opening up his own resort travel club business. After experiencing great success in the business world, Dr. Pierre Bennett was called to found God’s Luv International Ministries in 2008.

God, Dr. Pierre Bennett says, doesn’t want you to give up. Pointing to 2 Kings 13:19, Dr. Pierre Bennett quotes, “You should have struck five or six times.”

God doesn’t want you to give up. Sometimes we get stuck, Dr. Pierre Bennett reminds us, but those who truly love what they do never give up. Drummers keep drumming for as long as their bodies will let them, points out Dr. Pierre Bennett. Even carpenters keep working, says Dr. Pierre Bennett, recalling his uncle who worked as a bricklayer into his early 80s.

If artists can still create and bricklayers can still build, then warriors can still war, Dr. Pierre Bennett believes, especially warriors for God’s kingdom. Even though you have a choice at every level, you never give up, Dr. Pierre Bennett adds. You persevere.

According to Dr. Pierre Bennett, it’s also important to never become complacent. Even if you feel you’re next in line, never assume the good thing will come to you. Dr. Pierre Bennett adds that even though you always want to be open and honest with God, you still need to keep a repentant heart.

Wouldn’t it be sad to learn that if you’d only kept fighting a little while longer, you would have had it all? Dr. Pierre Bennett said God is trying to grant a blessing on your life. You can’t give up before you receive it.

In time, you’ll grow to love the fight, Dr. Pierre Bennett encourages. Once you’ve been a warrior for His kingdom long enough, it will become second nature to you. In fact, the more you fight, the more of a warrior you’ll become. You’ll fight until you think you can’t fight anymore, and with each fight you’ll become stronger in your faith. You’ll become a true warrior for God’s kingdom, promises Dr. Bennett.

Or you can stay stuck, Dr. Pierre Bennett states. You can stay in your safe place, refusing to fight the battle and miss the whole opportunity to grow. But Dr. Pierre Bennett points out that you’ll miss your inheritance, your mantle, like Gehazi, who was cursed. The mantle stayed with the one God gave it to, Elisha. No matter what, though, He will always get the glory.

Dr. Pierre Bennett can be contacted through God’s Luv International Ministries Church at 703-395-1430.

Religion

Pastor Pierre Bennett: Amos and the Plumb Line, Part 1

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Pastor Pierre Bennett is the founder and pastor of God’s Luv International Ministries, which has two weekly services in Virginia. With years of work serving others, Pastor Pierre Bennett is working hard to fulfill his vision of worldwide service through this ministry.

According to Pastor Pierre Bennett, sometimes God will show us things, and then ask us what we see. For an illustration of this truth, Pastor Pierre Bennett points to Amos 7:7, when God and Amos were standing on a wall made with a plumb line. When God asked Amos what he saw, Amos told God he saw a plumb line.

Of course! Pastor Pierre Bennett explains that God knew exactly what Amos was seeing. God was the One showing it to him, but He wanted Amos to describe it. Amos simply replied, “I see a plumb line, Lord.”

At the time, Amos was not a very popular prophet, Pastor Pierre Bennett points out. According to Pastor Pierre Bennett, Amos was prophesying against things that were popular at that time in Israel, and that caused the people to dislike him. Prior to this conversation between God and Amos, Pastor Pierre Bennett says that God had shown Amos a couple of visions.

One of those visions, Pastor Pierre Bennett states, was a swarm of locusts during the late crop. This frightened Amos, who begged God not to cause this destruction, relates Pastor Pierre Bennett. His pleading  got through to the Lord, who said, “It shall not be.”

However, God’s point was not really about locusts, but about the destruction of the traditional church, Pastor Pierre Bennett believes. In the same passage, Amos begs, “O Lord God, forgive, I pray! Oh, that Jacob may stand, for he is small.” Pastor Pierre Bennett explains that Jacob represents the church. God is talking about the destruction of the church and Amos is begging for its salvation, says Pastor Bennett.

When Amos described Jacob as small, according to Pastor Pierre Bennett, he meant small like a baby. Babies don’t know any better, and Amos was asking the Lord to save the church because it wasn’t aware of what it was doing, just as a baby wouldn’t know.

According to Pastor Pierre Bennett, God then showed Amos another vision. In the second vision, fire devastated the entire earth. Amos begged for the world’s salvation again, and simply by asking God, Amos was able to save the world from destruction. God said “okay,” Pastor Pierre Bennett recites. Because Amos prayed for it, God changed His mind.

The prayers of a righteous man, says Pastor Pierre Bennett, are powerful and when we keep ourselves in line with the will of God we should not hesitate to call on Him for our needs.