ANC Blog

Prayer is a very important practice in Christianity as it helps people to communicate with God, look for guidance and express gratitude. However, believers often get confused on how to pray, what to say while praying and also how they can make their prayers more meaningful. We will address some of the most widespread questions about prayer and provide biblical insights that can help guide your journey.
What Purpose Does Prayer Serve?
In essence, prayer is about developing a relationship with God. It does not only involve asking for things or trying to solve problems but rather aligning our hearts with His will. Through praying we acknowledge our reliance on Him, worship Him and bring Him into every aspect of our lives. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that “do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
How Should I Pray?
Is there a right way to pray? Matthew 6:9-13 contains the Lord’s Prayer which is considered as the standard model for praying according to Jesus himself. This prayer serves as a template, highlighting key components of prayer: adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication.
Adoration: Start by praising God for who He is.
Confession: Acknowledge and repent of your sins.
Thanksgiving: Express gratitude for God’s blessings and faithfulness.
Supplication: Bring your requests and needs before God.
While this model is helpful, it’s important to remember that prayer is personal. God invites us to come as we are, speaking to Him honestly and openly.
Why Does It Sometimes Feel Like My Prayers Go Unanswered?
Unanswered prayers can be challenging and may lead to feelings of doubt or frustration. It’s essential to remember that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Sometimes, what we perceive as unanswered prayer may be God working in ways we don’t yet understand. Trusting in His timing and plan is crucial.
James 4:3 also reminds us to check our motives: “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” Reflect on whether your prayers align with God’s will and seek His wisdom.
How Can I Make Prayer a Consistent Part of My Life?
Consistency in prayer can be challenging amidst the busyness of life. Here are some practical tips to help you cultivate a regular prayer habit:
Set Aside Time: Designate a specific time each day for prayer. Whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or before bed, find a time that works for you and stick to it.
Create a Prayer Space: Find a quiet, comfortable place where you can focus and connect with God without distractions.
Use Prayer Journals: Writing down your prayers can help you articulate your thoughts and track how God answers them over time.
Incorporate Prayer into Daily Activities: Pray during your commute, while exercising, or when doing household chores. These moments can be opportunities for prayer.
Conclusion
Prayer is a powerful and transformative discipline that deepens our relationship with God and aligns our hearts with His will. By exploring these common questions and applying biblical principles to our prayer lives, we can experience a more meaningful and fulfilling connection with our Creator. Remember, prayer is not about perfection but about persistence and openness to God’s presence. As you seek to grow in prayer, may you find comfort, strength, and joy in the presence of our loving Father.

We are looking forward to our upcoming Trials of Job sermon series happening this fall! Pastor Sean will take us through the entire book, providing us not just sound teaching but tangible application for our life. To help situate ourselves, this blog post will provide some important background information o help with our study and interpretation of the book.

Author
The authorship of the Book of Job remains one of the great mysteries of biblical literature. Unlike many other books in the Bible, Job does not provide explicit information about its author. Traditional Jewish and Christian scholarship has offered various theories, with some attributing the book to Moses, Solomon, or even Job himself. However, most modern scholars agree that the author is unknown. The text’s linguistic style and theological depth suggest that it may have been composed by a highly educated individual, well-versed in wisdom literature and the cultural context of the ancient Near East.
Date
The dating of the Book of Job is equally complex. Estimates range from as early as the patriarchal period (around 2000-1700 B.C.) to as late as the post-exilic period (around 500-400 B.C.). The book’s setting, which includes references to patriarchal figures, desert life, and the absence of the Mosaic Law, might suggest an early date. However, the language and themes align more closely with later wisdom literature, leading some scholars to propose a date during or after the Babylonian exile. Despite the uncertainty, the timeless nature of the book’s themes allows it to transcend specific historical contexts, making it relevant across the ages.
Theological Themes
The Book of Job explores several key theological themes that will be explored in this sermon series:
The Problem of Suffering: At the heart of Job is the question of why the righteous suffer. Job, a man described as “blameless and upright,” experiences unimaginable loss and pain, leading him to wrestle with the justice of God. The book does not provide easy answers but instead invites readers to reflect on the complexity of suffering and the limitations of human understanding.
The Sovereignty of God: Job underscores God’s ultimate authority over all creation. Throughout the dialogue between Job and his friends, and especially in God’s response from the whirlwind, the book emphasizes that God’s ways are beyond human comprehension. God’s sovereignty is not diminished by human suffering, and His purposes, though mysterious, are always just and good.
The Mystery of Divine Providence: The Book of Job challenges the simplistic idea of retributive justice, where the righteous are always rewarded, and the wicked are always punished. Instead, it presents a more nuanced view of divine providence, where God’s plans and actions are hidden from human eyes. This theme invites believers to trust in God’s wisdom and goodness, even when circumstances seem unjust or incomprehensible.
Faith and Integrity: Job’s unwavering faith and integrity, even in the face of immense suffering, serve as a powerful example for believers. His refusal to curse God, despite his friends’ accusations and his wife’s urging, highlights the importance of maintaining faithfulness and trust in God, regardless of life’s trials.

General Structure
The Book of Job is structured in a way that combines narrative, poetry, and dialogue, creating a rich tapestry of literary forms:
Prologue (Chapters 1-2): The book opens with a narrative prologue, introducing Job as a wealthy and righteous man. A cosmic challenge occurs in the heavenly court, where Satan questions Job’s motives for serving God. God allows Satan to test Job, leading to the loss of his possessions, children, and health.
Dialogue (Chapters 3-31): The bulk of the book consists of a poetic dialogue between Job and his three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Each friend presents a different perspective on Job’s suffering, often suggesting that it is a result of hidden sin. Job defends his innocence and laments his suffering, questioning the justice of God.
Elihu’s Speeches (Chapters 32-37): A fourth character, Elihu, enters the scene and offers his own perspective on Job’s suffering. Elihu’s speeches provide a transition between the dialogue and God’s response, emphasizing God’s justice and the need for humility before Him.
God’s Response (Chapters 38-41): God finally speaks to Job out of a whirlwind, challenging him with a series of rhetorical questions about the creation and governance of the world. God’s speeches highlight the vastness of His knowledge and power, underscoring the limitations of human understanding.
Epilogue (Chapter 42): The book concludes with a narrative epilogue, where Job repents in dust and ashes, acknowledging God’s sovereignty. God restores Job’s fortunes, blessing him with even greater prosperity than before.

The Book of Job remains a timeless exploration of the human condition, inviting readers to grapple with the mysteries of suffering, the nature of God, and the challenge of faith. Its profound theological themes and intricate structure offer a wealth of insights for believers, encouraging a deep and enduring trust in the sovereignty and goodness of God, even in the face of life’s greatest trials. Whether studied for its literary beauty, theological depth, or spiritual wisdom, the Book of Job continues to speak powerfully to the hearts and minds of those who seek to understand the ways of God in a complex and often painful world.

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
— Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

Change is one of the few constants in life. Whether we like it or not, things are always evolving, transforming, and shifting around us. For some, change can be exciting and full of potential, while for others, it can be intimidating and overwhelming. Regardless of how we feel about change, it is often necessary for growth, renewal, and progress.
1. Understanding God’s Perspective on Change
Isaiah 43:19 offers us God’s perspective on change. God speaks through the prophet Isaiah, declaring His intention to do something new. The verse reminds us that God is not only aware of change but is also actively orchestrating it for our good. He is creating “a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland,” signalling that He is bringing life and hope to places that seem barren and hopeless.
When we face change, it is comforting to remember that God is at work, even when we can’t see the bigger picture. His plans are often beyond our understanding, yet they are always for our ultimate benefit.
2. Recognizing the Opportunities in Change
The phrase “Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” challenges us to be attentive and open to the new opportunities that change can bring. It’s easy to focus on what we are losing or the uncertainty that change brings, but God invites us to shift our perspective.
Change can open doors to new relationships, experiences, and growth opportunities. It can help us break free from old patterns that are no longer serving us and lead us toward a more fulfilling path. Embracing change with a sense of curiosity can transform our fear into excitement and our resistance into acceptance.
3. Trusting God’s Provision and Guidance
God promises to make a way in the wilderness and provide streams in the wasteland. This imagery is powerful because it assures us that God will provide for us and guide us through uncertain times. Just as He provided for the Israelites in the desert, He will provide for us in our personal deserts.
Trusting God’s provision means believing that He will meet our needs, even when the path is unclear. It means relying on His wisdom and timing, knowing that He is faithful and His plans are perfect.
4. Taking Practical Steps to Embrace Change
Pray for Guidance: Begin by seeking God’s wisdom and guidance through prayer. Ask Him to reveal the new things He is doing in your life and to help you align your heart with His will.
Reflect on Past Experiences: Consider previous times when you’ve experienced change and how God has led you through those seasons. Reflecting on past experiences can help build your faith and remind you of God’s faithfulness.
Be Open to New Opportunities: Approach change with an open heart and mind. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and explore the new opportunities that come your way.
Stay Connected to Community: Surround yourself with a supportive community of friends and family who can offer encouragement, prayer, and guidance as you navigate change.
Trust in God’s Timing: Remember that God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with your own expectations. Trust that He knows the best time for new things to unfold in your life.

Embracing change can be challenging, but it can also lead to incredible growth and transformation when viewed through the lens of faith. Isaiah 43:19 reminds us that God is doing something new, and we are invited to perceive it and embrace it with confidence and trust.
As we face the inevitable changes that life brings, may we hold onto the promise that God is with us, guiding us and providing for us every step of the way. Let us be open to the new things He is doing, knowing that He is making a way for us in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Do you ever feel like your problems are too insignificant for God to notice? It’s easy to think He has more pressing matters than our personal struggles. But there’s a story in 2 Kings 6 that challenges this notion, highlighting God’s care for seemingly small people with small problems.
God’s Attention to the Overlooked
In 2 Kings 5, we meet Naaman, a powerful military commander. Following his story, we encounter the king of Syria (2 Kings 6:8–33), both significant figures. Yet sandwiched between their narratives is a story about “the sons of the prophets,” a group of ordinary men learning from the prophet Elisha. These men are not famous or influential; we don’t even know their names.
Still, their story is important enough to be included in the Bible. This highlights a recurring theme: God’s interest in the everyday lives of ordinary people. The Bible frequently focuses on unnamed characters, reminding us that God cares deeply about each person, regardless of their status or recognition.
Small Problems, Big Concerns
The first issue the prophets face is a cramped living space. “The sons of the prophets said to Elisha, ‘See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us’” (2 Kings 6:1). They propose a solution: “‘Let us go to the Jordan and each of us get there a log, and let us make a place for us to dwell there.’ And he answered, ‘Go’” (2 Kings 6:2). This illustrates how God often works through our efforts, guiding us as we solve our problems.
The second problem involves a lost axe head. “But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, ‘Alas, my master! It was borrowed’” (2 Kings 6:5). To this man, the issue is significant. Elisha’s response shows God’s concern for small issues. He performs a miracle, making the iron axe head float, demonstrating that no problem is too minor for God.
No Prayer Too Small
Psalm 147:3–4 reminds us that God “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names.” God’s power spans from creating stars to caring for the brokenhearted.
So, bring your concerns to Him. He wants to hear from you, no matter how small the problem seems. When God became human, born as a fragile baby, He showed that He cares deeply about each of us. Let’s bring our worries to Him, trusting in His love and attention.

In our fast-paced world, taking a sabbath—a day of rest and rejuvenation—can seem like a luxury few can afford. However, this ancient practice has significant benefits, both historically and in modern times. We find God commanding the Israelites to take a sabbath every 7 days, and even God himself displaying this practice when He takes a breath after creating the world in 6 days.
A sabbath can provide the much-needed break from the daily grind, helping to restore balance and vitality. In this post, we will explore practical tips to help you incorporate a Sabbath into your routine, making it a sustainable and enriching practice.

Preparing for Your Sabbath
Choosing a Day

Traditionally, the Sabbath is observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening in Judaism, and on Sunday in Christianity. However, you can choose any day that fits your schedule and allows for consistency in practice. The key is to select a day you can commit to regularly.
Planning Ahead Preparation is essential for a stress-free Sabbath. Complete necessary chores and errands beforehand to avoid distractions. Inform family and friends about your Sabbath plans so they can respect your time of rest. Setting clear expectations helps create an environment conducive to relaxation.
Activities to Embrace During the Sabbath
Rest and Relaxation Use the Sabbath to rest and recharge. Enjoy a nap, meditate, or take leisurely walks in nature. These activities help reduce stress and restore energy.
Spiritual Practices Engage in spiritual practices that are meaningful to you. This could include prayer, reading your Bible, or attending our Sunday services. These activities can provide a sense of peace and connection.
Quality Time with Loved Ones Spend quality time with family and friends. Share meals, have meaningful conversations, and participate in activities that strengthen your relationships. The Sabbath is an excellent time to nurture these connections.
Personal Enrichment Dedicate time to personal enrichment through reading, journaling, or engaging in hobbies. These activities can foster creativity and personal growth, adding to the restorative nature of the Sabbath.
What to Avoid on the Sabbath
Work-Related Tasks Avoid work-related tasks such as checking emails, attending meetings, or planning projects. The goal is to take a complete break from professional responsibilities.
Stressful or Demanding Activities Steer clear of intense exercise, household chores, and errands that can be postponed. The Sabbath should be a time of rest, not stress.
Negative Influences Limit exposure to negative influences like news consumption, social media debates, and contentious discussions. Protecting your mental space is crucial for a restful Sabbath.
Overcoming Challenges
Dealing with Guilt or Anxiety It is common to feel guilty or anxious about taking a break. Remember that rest is essential for productivity and well-being. Reframe the Sabbath as a time for rejuvenation rather than an indulgence.
Balancing Family or Social Obligations Communicate your Sabbath plans to family and friends, setting clear boundaries. This helps manage expectations and ensures your time of rest is respected.
Adjusting to a New Routine Be patient with yourself as you adjust to this new routine. Start small and gradually integrate more aspects of the Sabbath into your life. Over time, it will become a cherished part of your weekly rhythm.
Conclusion
Taking a Sabbath offers numerous benefits, including improved mental and physical health, enhanced relationships, and personal growth. Start small, and gradually make it a consistent part of your life. Embrace the Sabbath as a time for rest and renewal, and witness the positive changes it brings.

As my wife and I arrived home from a long day at Moonlight Beach, I was finally able to let out a long sigh of relief. All the months of planning, meetings, shopping and preparing candidates, culminating in a 3 hour long event. It had been easy for those few hours to worry about making sure that everything was just right, ignoring the wondrous occurrence happening right in front of me. The Plunge has been an annual event that All Nations Church has participated in since 2011, where people publicly declare their faith in a baptism on the shores of Ramsey Lake. And there are a lot of wins we can celebrate from this event.

In a display of unity, faith, and joy, the Plunge Event, a city-wide baptism celebration, unfolded with unparalleled success (except it was a little wet). Organized collaboratively by 7 local ministries (All Nations Church, First Baptist Church, New Life Christian Centre, Grace Family Church, KFM, ShareWord Global and Restoration Church) and supported by countless others, the event served as a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal. With 56 enthusiastic baptizees, and the unique opportunity to share the message of faith with a wider audience through a public venue, the Plunge Event truly left a mark on everyone.

Unprecedented Church Unity:
The hallmark of the Plunge Event was the remarkable unity demonstrated by the 7 ministries involved. Putting aside denominational differences, they united under a shared purpose: to celebrate and strengthen their faith together as one body of believers. Through tireless collaboration, they transformed what would have been individual baptisms into a grand, city-wide spectacle of faith. This powerful display of unity set an example for the entire community, demonstrating the potential of working together towards a common goal.

A Joyful and Diverse Assembly of Baptizees:
The heart and soul of the Plunge Event were the 56 individuals who eagerly stepped forward to declare their faith through baptism. These baptizees came from diverse backgrounds, representing a beautiful tapestry of cultures, ages (from 10 to 85), and life experiences. Their shared joy and enthusiasm were infectious, inspiring all present to reflect on the universality of faith and its ability to unite people across boundaries.

Spreading the Message of Faith:
What made the Plunge Event even more remarkable was the decision to hold it at a public venue. By choosing a venue frequented by members of the community, the event had a unique opportunity to reach those who might not have encountered the message of faith in a conventional church setting. As the ceremony unfolded, curious onlookers were drawn in, leading to meaningful conversations and interactions that sparked interest and curiosity about Christianity.

The resounding success of the Plunge Event stands as a testament to the power of unity, faith, and outreach. As the ripples of the Plunge Event continue to spread throughout the community, it is evident that this remarkable celebration has sown seeds of hope, unity, and faith that will bear fruit for years to come. Through such initiatives, the Christian community can inspire others to come together, embrace diversity, and share the message of Jesus with love and compassion.

Evangelism can be a word that strikes fear into the heart of Christians. The concept of having to share and defend our faith with others can be difficult and confusing, with many of us not even knowing where to start. With the recent ShareWord Global conference, I’ve been doing a lot more thinking about how to share my faith and did a little bit of research. I happened across the Barna group’s recent research on what people of no faith were looking for in conversations with Christians.

These conversations of faith can come out of curiosity or certainty, but are ripe with potential. Relationships between Christians and individuals of no faith are common, with 65 percent of those without faith have personal acquaintances who embrace the teachings of Christ, and 45 percent engaging in heartfelt discussions about their Christian journey. Based on the research, it clear what they seek in those conversations: they yearn for listeners, not judges. Honest reflections on doubts and questions, devoid of coerced convictions, form the cornerstone of meaningful discourse. The canvas upon which these dialogues unfold is painted with strokes of care and consideration.

However, reality often presents a stark contrast to these aspirations. Despite the warmth of one-on-one exchanges, explicit expressions of faith can sometimes fall on deaf ears. Many individuals of no faith recoil from further discussions about Jesus, feeling unheard or imposed upon. These encounters, though well-intentioned, fail to foster the desired sense of closeness and understanding.

In moments of reflection, it becomes evident that the efficacy of spiritual conversations is intricately intertwined with the fabric of relationships. A poorly navigated dialogue not only stifles curiosity but also jeopardizes the bond between individuals. In light of these insights, the call to action resonates loud and clear: Christians must hone the art of building relationships and engaging in conversations that honour mutual care, respect, and authenticity.

Guided by the wisdom of scripture, here are a tips at we seek to grow relationally and share our faith with others:
Listen Without Judgment: Proverbs 18:13 reminds us, “To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.” Approach conversations with humility, seeking to understand rather than to impose.
Embrace Honest Doubt: In John 20:27, Jesus extends compassion to Thomas, acknowledging his doubts. Embrace questions with empathy, recognizing that doubt can be a pathway to deeper understanding.
Cultivate Genuine Care: Galatians 6:2 urges us to “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Approach conversations with a genuine desire to understand and uplift, fostering an environment of mutual care and support.
We have the unique responsibility and opportunity as Christians to speak into people’s lives, showing them the love that Christ has for them. Ensuring that we do that respectfully is so important to help others come into Christ’s family!

As youth pastor, I try to consume as much information as I can about teenagers and their culture. Many think that means that I make sure to know all the Tik Tok memes and the slang they use, but it goes beyond that. I try to understand how teenagers develop and think, what bothers them about the world and how that impacts their view of Christ.

As a part of this research, I read a very insightful book called 3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager by Kara Powell and Brad M. Griffin. Navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence can be challenging for both teenagers and their parents. It’s a time of rapid change, self-discovery, and a quest for identity and purpose. This book offers invaluable guidance for parents seeking to support their teens through this transformative period. In order to gather their information, the two authors in partnership with the Fuller Youth Institute researched 2,200 teenagers using interviews, surveys and four groups. They found that all teenagers struggle with the same 3 questions in this period of their life. Let’s look at the three profound questions that they outline and explore how you can empower your teenager to navigate them with confidence and clarity.

Who am I?
Adolescence is a time of identity formation, where teenagers grapple with questions about who they are and who they want to become. As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your teen explore their identity. Most teenagers fit into the following four categories:
-I am what others expect
-I am not ________ enough
-I am my image
-I am more than my label

Encourage them to embrace their interests, passions, and strengths. Provide opportunities for self-reflection and exploration, whether through journaling, hobbies, or volunteering. Remind them that it’s okay to be themselves and that their uniqueness is something to celebrate, not hide. Point them back to Christ – that through Him, they are ENOUGH.

Where do I fit?
Teenagers often wrestle with a sense of belonging and acceptance. They yearn to find their place in the world, whether among peers, family, or society at large. Research finds that the 3 most common answers are:
-I fit where I feel safe to be me
-I fit where we share __________
-I fit where I feel like I am needed

Foster a supportive and inclusive environment at home where your teen feels valued and accepted for who they are. Encourage them to explore different social groups and activities that align with their interests and values. True belonging comes from being a part of God’s people. This goes beyond just church or youth group, but seeing themselves as having belonging that goes beyond a clique.

What difference do I make?
Adolescence is a time of discovering one’s purpose and significance. Your teen may wonder about their impact on the world and how they can make a difference. They will typically answer the above question with one of the following:
-I make a difference when I am helping others
-I make a difference when I follow the script
-I make a difference when I get to make decisions about my life
-I make a difference when I’m headed towards a good future

Encourage them to explore their passions and talents, and to channel them towards meaningful pursuits. Depending on how they would answer the above questions, there will be different ways to support them best. Through it all remember to remind them that they have been invited to be a part of God’s greater story, and that is how they can make a difference.

Navigating the three big questions of adolescence requires patience, empathy, and open communication. By engaging with your teenager in meaningful conversations and providing unconditional love and support, you can empower them to discover their identity, find their place in the world, and make a positive impact. Remember that every teenager’s journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Embrace the journey together, and celebrate the growth and discoveries along the way. Your guidance and encouragement can help shape your teenager into a confident, compassionate, and purpose-driven individual ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

If you are interested in reading the book for yourself, I would definitely recommend it! I do also have a copy that I can lend to you as well!

With the Plunge fast approaching, we are looking forward to baptizing many individuals who are proclaiming their new life in Christ! But it’s also around this time that we receive lots of questions. “Should I be baptized in general?” “Do I have to do it around of other people?” “What about if I was baptized as a child?”
Here at All Nations Church, we believe in believer’s baptism. This means that we feel that individuals should be baptized once they place their faith in Christ. Baptism is not just a religious ritual; it holds immense spiritual significance. Baptism is like a public proclamation of faith, a symbolic act that represents dying to our old selves and rising to a new life in Christ. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of baptism, drawing insights from the Bible to shed light on its transformative power.
Obedience to Christ’s Command: In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus instructed His disciples, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” By embracing baptism, we demonstrate our commitment to follow Christ’s teachings and honour His command.
Identification with Christ’s Death and Resurrection: Romans 6:3-4 beautifully captures the essence of baptism: “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” Through baptism, we symbolically identify with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. As we are immersed in the water, our old self dies, and as we rise from the water, we experience a new life in Him.
Forgiveness of Sins and Spiritual Renewal: Acts 2:38 emphasizes the connection between repentance, baptism, and forgiveness: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Baptism serves as a profound moment of surrender and spiritual cleansing. It symbolizes our repentance and signifies the forgiveness of our sins. We are born anew, experiencing a spiritual renewal through God’s grace.
Unity within the Body of Christ: Galatians 3:27 beautifully illustrates the unifying nature of baptism: “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Through baptism, we become part of the body of Christ, the global church. It’s an act that binds us together with fellow believers, providing an opportunity for communal growth, support, and joint participation in God’s mission.
Public Testimony and Witness: Baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It is a powerful testimony of our faith in Jesus and His work in our lives. By publicly declaring our commitment through baptism, we invite others to consider the life-changing message of the gospel. It becomes an opportunity to share the love and truth of Jesus with those around us.
Baptism is more than a mere religious ritual; it is a deeply significant step on our spiritual journey. By obeying Christ’s command, we identify with His death and resurrection, experience forgiveness and renewal, find unity within the body of Christ, and bear witness to the transforming power of God. Let us embrace the sacred waters of baptism, recognizing its profound impact on our lives as we embark on a path of faith and discipleship.
As Mark 16:16 reminds us, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” We encourage you to get baptized at this year’s Plunge event occurring on June 23 at 1pm at Moonlight Beach. This event has been going on for over a decade and sees churches from across the city come together to celebrate baptism. If you have questions or would like to be baptized don’t hesitate to reach out to Pastor Brandon at bmartel@allnationschurch.ca

In a world filled with noise and conflicting voices, it can be challenging to navigate the delicate balance between speaking the truth and expressing love. As followers of a compassionate and truthful God, we are called to embody the essence of both these virtues in our interactions with others.
The Scriptures teach us that “speaking the truth in love” is not just a suggestion but a divine command. Ephesians 4 says “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
This passage encourages us as leaders to share the truth of the Bible and the gospel with others, willing to speak out against deceitful teaching, but doing so with love. But this can be challenging.
Here are some tips to lead us in the right direction in having those conversations that require us to speak the truth in love.

Always ask more questions, seek clarification and actually listen. It’s so easy for us to want to just pounce on someone when they say something that is counter to what we believe. But sometimes we must step back, and be willing to accept communication issues, as opposed to theological differences.
Pray before, during, and after you say what must be said. The Bible tells us to ‘pray without ceasing’ (I Thessalonians 5:17) and when one is about to confront another on some sensitive issue, prayer must be the starting point.  Prayer should also be going on during and after the discussion.  It is always a dangerous endeavour when one sets out on a task without asking for God’s guidance and blessing.  When we operate apart from a close connection with Him, we cannot be assured that we will say or do the right thing.  Only when we are fully surrendered to the guidance of the Holy Spirit can we know we are doing what He wants us to do.
Make sure God wants you to say anything at all. We need to make sure that it is God who wants us to say something to the other person/people rather than it just being our own idea.  Sometimes our pride or our ego is really the motivation for us confronting someone.  We must be sure that we are motivated by God’s love and not our selfish motives. As well, we need to realize we’re first called to bring people to Jesus, and then have them change their ways, not the other way around
We should have a relationship with the person with whom we are going to talk. Developing a relationship with the person, or people, with whom you are going to talk creates an openness in which you will more likely be heard.  It does not have to be a deep relationship or take long to build, but it must be a relationship that allows you to say what you are going to say.  The person to whom you speak should sense that you are speaking out of love for him or her.
We should attempt to conduct the conversation either with the individual alone or with just a few people. People are more likely to have a reasonable conversation when there are no crowds around.  Many times, if crowds are present, it becomes more of an opportunity to show off than to have an honest heart-to-heart discussion.  As was mentioned before, we are not confronting anyone just to boost our own ego; our desire should be to help the person to whom we feel led to speak.
What we say must be the truth. We must be sure that what we are about to say is what God wants us to say.  We should be convinced that it is God approved, as it were.  Much prayer should be prayed before any words are uttered.  We must not use this as an opportunity to attempt to manipulate anyone (Philippians 2:3).  Our goal is to share the truth, and help the other person to understand it.
We must make sure we are speaking from an attitude of love. Too many people say they are speaking out of love when they are merely using that as an excuse to blast someone.  The entire encounter must be done out of a motive of love and carried out in the spirit of love.  It cannot be a heavy handed, holier-than-thou, confrontation that does more harm than good.  We should be seeking to help the one with whom we are speaking.  We must seek to build the person up and glorify God at the same time.
We must guide those to whom we speak back to God, and the Bible. Our opinions and feelings must not guide our discussion.  Neither do we simply want to make the person we speak to feel better.  The reason we are confronting the person in the first place is because God has laid a truth on our hearts concerning another person’s beliefs or actions that need to change.  Merely, turning a person’s focus in on himself or herself, instead of toward God, is not helpful.  We should not promote a cure that consists of fixing the symptoms to make a person feel better without addressing the real problem.  A doctor would not be very effective if he/she merely covered up the symptoms of an illness while never addressing the actual illness itself.  This would be deception of a most dangerous kind.  Let us apply this to spiritual things: How much more dangerous to convince someone that they are innocent, or good enough, in God’s eyes when in reality they are guilty (Romans 3:10) and deserving of His judgment? When a person believes that ‘all he needs is within him’, he relies on himself and actually cuts himself off from the true source of life…God.  The power needed to change the heart is spiritual power that only comes through an intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  Apart from God, we can do nothing to rescue ourselves or anyone else (John 15:5).

Whenever we seek to counsel, console, or reprove anyone we need to maintain the balance between truth and love.  We must not sacrifice the truth in the name of love, nor should we deliver the truth in a less than loving manner. By “speaking the truth in love”, we are able to encourage people in their relationship with God and not push them away from Him by employing a mean-spirited, judgmental attitude.

We must make sure the person to whom we are speaking knows he or she is not in a hopeless situation.  No matter what the issue is that prompted the need for confrontation, God is the cure.  He forgives us, gives us understanding, and empowers us to live the way He wants us to live.  Anytime we ‘speak the truth in love’, the ‘truth’ must be God’s truth, the ‘love’ must be God’s love, and we must be His faithful servants as we share both with those to whom we speak.

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV).