Praying Boldly

In a world where challenges and uncertainties are inevitable, there is one thing that stands out as both a comfort and a call to action: bold prayer. The kind of prayer that doesn’t shy away from the truth but faces it head-on, seeking divine intervention with unwavering faith. It is this boldness in prayer that transforms not just the individual but entire communities. Bold prayer is not about timid requests or vague hopes; it’s about standing in the gap with confidence, knowing that the God we pray to is sovereign and powerful.

Recognizing God’s Sovereignty

Understanding the sovereignty of God is the foundation of bold prayer. When we approach God, we do so knowing that He is in control of all things. This is not just a theological concept; it is the reality that shapes how we pray. Recognizing God’s sovereignty means that we trust in His ultimate plan and purpose, even when it doesn’t align with our desires. It means that our prayers are not about convincing God to do what we want but aligning ourselves with His will. This recognition shifts our perspective from mere supplication to a deep, trusting relationship with the Creator.

The Impact of Prayer on Our World

Prayer has the power to change the course of history, not because it manipulates God, but because it aligns us with His will, enabling us to act in faith. The early church understood this when they prayed for boldness in the face of persecution. They didn’t ask for safety or comfort; they asked for the courage to continue spreading the message of Christ. This kind of prayer moves mountains because it is rooted in the knowledge that God’s purposes will prevail, and we are privileged to be a part of that work. When we pray boldly, we are asking God to use us as instruments of His will, trusting that He will guide our steps.

Living Out Our Bold Prayers

The call to bold prayer is not just about what happens when we pray but also about how we live afterward. Bold prayer should lead to bold living—actions that reflect the confidence we have in God’s sovereignty. It’s easy to go through the motions of life, but bold prayer challenges us to step out in faith, to speak the truth in love, and to act with the assurance that God is with us. Whether it’s sharing the gospel with a friend, standing up for what’s right, or simply living a life that honors God, our prayers should propel us into action. After all, the prayer of the early church was not just words; it was a declaration of their unwavering commitment to God’s mission. And their boldness in prayer led to a boldness in life that changed the world.

Bold prayer is a powerful tool that God has given us to participate in His work. It requires us to recognize His sovereignty, to trust in His plan, and to live out our faith with courage. As we commit ourselves to prayer, let us do so with the confidence that our sovereign God hears us and will act according to His perfect will. And let our bold prayers lead to bold actions that reflect the truth and love of Christ in our world.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Living in Love: Love Perfected

As christians, it’s crucial to remember that our true essence is found in our relationship with the divine. At the core of our being, we are loved unconditionally by God, and this love is not just a comforting thought—it’s a transformative reality. Our ability to love others stems from this deep, unshakable truth. When we truly understand who we are in Christ, our actions naturally begin to reflect that love. This is not merely a call to be loving; it’s a call to recognize that we are already loved beyond measure. Once this truth is internalized, loving others becomes an overflow of the love we have received.

The Power of God’s Love in Action

God’s love isn’t just a passive, comforting presence; it’s an active force that empowers us to love others. The ultimate proof of this love was demonstrated when God sent His Son to atone for our sins, removing the need for us to make sacrifices to appease His wrath. This selfless act of love sets the standard for how we should love one another—unconditionally and sacrificially. When we embrace this love, we become vessels through which God’s love is made visible to the world. Our love for others is not just a reflection of God’s love; it’s a continuation of His work, completing the picture of His perfect love here on earth.

Living Boldly Without Fear

One of the most profound effects of God’s love is the freedom it gives us from fear. In God’s love, there is no room for fear because His perfect love casts out all fear of punishment. This doesn’t mean that there are no consequences for our actions, but it does mean that we no longer live under the looming threat of condemnation. Through Christ, we are invited to approach God with confidence, knowing that His love for us is secure. This boldness should inspire us to love others fearlessly, as we have been loved. The security we have in God’s love should propel us into action, loving others without hesitation or reservation.

The Power of Love

Our capacity to love others is a direct reflection of our relationship with God. The more we immerse ourselves in His love—through prayer, engaging with His Word, and living in community with other believers—the more our love is tested, refined, and perfected. This process is akin to a master craftsman shaping a piece of wood; it takes time, patience, and intentionality. As we grow in love, we become better reflections of God’s character, displaying His love to a world in desperate need of it. Our love for others becomes a testimony of God’s transformative power at work within us, drawing others closer to Him.

In living out these truths, we embody the love of God in a tangible way, making His presence known in our daily interactions. Let your life be a testament to the love you have received, and in doing so, draw others into the divine embrace of His perfect love.

— AARON DININNY

Executive Director - [Multiply]

Father’s day 2024: The Goodness of god

Nowadays, it's easy to become disconnected from our source of spiritual strength. Just as a battery weakens when left uncharged, so too does our faith when we distance ourselves from Christ. The Apostle John, writing in the late first century, emphasized the importance of abiding in Jesus. By staying close to Him, we draw the courage and strength needed to navigate life’s challenges. Proximity fosters a healthier relationship, and this principle applies to our spiritual walk as well. Prioritize prayer, immerse yourself in the Word, and engage with fellow believers to maintain a vibrant and robust faith.

The Assurance of Salvation

Abiding in Christ not only strengthens our faith but also assures us of our salvation. John’s letters remind us that our faith is evidenced by how we live and love. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, our lives reflect His light more clearly. This process, known as sanctification, brings us closer to the image of Christ. When we wonder why our faith feels weak or why we lack courage in our Christian walk, the answer often lies in our proximity to Jesus. Reconnecting with Him through spiritual disciplines ensures that our faith remains strong and vibrant.

Discovering Our Identity as Children of God

One of the most profound truths in John’s writing is our identity as children of God. This identity is grounded in His great love for us. Despite the world’s skepticism and the pain of earthly fatherlessness, we have a heavenly Father who loves us deeply and unconditionally. This reality is transformative. Knowing we belong to God reshapes our self-perception and how we relate to others. It calls us to live in a way that reflects our divine heritage, loving others as God loves us.

Living in Anticipation of Christ’s Return

John speaks of the hope we have in Christ’s return. This future promise should inspire us to live pure and holy lives today. We are called to anticipate the day when we will see Jesus face-to-face, transformed into His likeness. This anticipation is not just a distant hope but a present motivation. As we look forward to His return, we are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith, pursuing purity and righteousness. Philippians 1:6 assures us that He who began a good work in us will carry it to completion. This promise gives us the confidence to live out our faith boldly and joyfully.

Strength in Spiritual Fatherhood

John also highlights the importance of strong male presence in both the family and the church. Statistics show the profound impact of fathers on their children's spiritual journey. Men are called to rise to the occasion, embodying the love and strength of Christ in their homes and communities. By doing so, they lead their families toward a deeper relationship with God. The church thrives when men embrace their role as spiritual leaders, setting an example of faith and love.

Running to the Father

As we navigate our spiritual journey, let’s remember to run to our heavenly Father with the eagerness of a child returning home. Abiding in Christ, we find strength, assurance, and joy. Embrace your identity as a child of God and live in the hope of His return. Fathers, step into your role with confidence and love. Together, let’s cultivate a community that reflects the light of Christ, drawing others into the fullness of joy found only in Him.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

True Joy: Standing Firm in Faith and Truth

In our fast-paced lives, the pursuit of joy often feels elusive. We chase fleeting pleasures and momentary satisfactions, only to find ourselves yearning for something deeper. But there is a profound source of joy available to us, one that surpasses all worldly delights: the joy found in a true relationship with Jesus Christ. John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, emphasizes this in his writings, urging us to embrace this divine joy by living a life of faith and obedience. He reminds us that our joy is made complete in Christ, who invites us to put away the darkness of sin and walk in the light of His truth.

The Battle Against Deception

We live in a world where false teachings abound, constantly challenging the truth of the gospel. John's message is clear: resist these false teachings and cling to the truths of Scripture. The presence of false teachings is a testament to the reality of Christ and the ongoing spiritual battle for our souls. As the gospel spreads, so too do the deceptions of the enemy. Yet, there is hope and victory in this battle. The presence of these falsehoods only underscores the truth and power of the gospel. We must be vigilant, discerning, and rooted in the truth to navigate these challenges.

The True Test of Faith

What we believe about Jesus Christ is the most crucial aspect of our faith. John warns that anyone who denies that Jesus is the Christ is propagating a dangerous error. These false teachings seek to redefine and diminish the true nature and work of Jesus. Recognizing Jesus as the Son of God, the Savior, and the perfect sacrifice is essential for a right relationship with God. How we perceive Jesus directly impacts how we live our lives. If we acknowledge Him as our Savior and Lord, it compels us to devote our lives to Him, offering our time, talents, and treasures in service to His kingdom.

The Power of Abiding in Christ

To remain steadfast in our faith, John encourages us to abide in the teachings of Christ. This means holding fast to the truths revealed in Scripture and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us. Believers are gifted with the Holy Spirit, who teaches and reminds us of all that Jesus has taught. By abiding in Christ, we have all we need for salvation and full joy. This abiding is not passive; it requires active engagement with God's Word and a commitment to living out our faith daily. As we do so, we are equipped to discern truth from error and stand firm against the deceptions of the enemy.

A Call to Action

In this spiritual battle, it is vital to remain rooted in the truth and vigilant against deception. The joy and assurance of our salvation in Christ empower us to live boldly and faithfully. Let us embrace this joy, resist false teachings, and abide in the truth of God's Word. By doing so, we not only secure our faith but also become beacons of truth and love in a world desperately in need of the gospel. Let us fix our hearts and minds on Jesus, the source of our joy and the foundation of our faith, and live in the fullness of His grace and truth.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

The Great Exchange: Discovering Our Identity in Christ

In the tapestry of human existence, few moments resonate as profoundly as the encounter between Mary and Jesus at the crucifixion. As Jesus, in His final breaths, entrusted His mother to the care of His beloved disciple John, He performed an act of deep compassion and ensured a new identity for both Mary and John. This poignant moment captures the essence of the "Great Exchange" — a divine transaction where Jesus offers us a new identity, rooted in His love and sacrifice.

The Apostle John, who witnessed this exchange firsthand, illuminates this transformative truth in his writings. Known for his deep personal relationship with Jesus, John’s message in his first epistle revolves around the identity shift we undergo when we embrace Christ. John, a man who experienced the fullness of Jesus’ ministry, from the miracles to the resurrection, urges us to understand and live out our new identity in Christ.

The Dual Nature of Jesus

John’s firsthand account is not just a historical record but a personal testimony of encountering Jesus as both fully divine and fully human. This dual nature of Christ is crucial. Jesus, the “Word of life,” was with God from the beginning and yet entered our world, taking on human flesh. John emphasizes this to counteract the false teachings of his time, such as Gnosticism, which denied the humanity of Christ.

By affirming Jesus’ humanity, John underscores the tangible reality of God’s love. Jesus was not a distant deity but one who walked among us, shared in our experiences, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for our sins. This reality invites us into an intimate relationship with God, bridging the chasm between the divine and the human.

Walking in the Light

John’s message is clear: to know God is to walk in the light. God is light, and in Him, there is no darkness at all. This light represents truth, purity, and life. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this light in our daily lives. Walking in the light means living in a way that aligns with God’s truth, acknowledging our sins, and allowing Jesus’ sacrificial blood to continually cleanse us.

Confession and repentance are vital in maintaining this walk. John warns against self-deception, urging us to confront our sins honestly. When we acknowledge our need for forgiveness, God, who is faithful and just, cleanses us from all unrighteousness. This ongoing process of cleansing is not about attaining sinlessness on our own but relying on Jesus, our advocate, who pleads our case before the Father.

The Transformative Power of Jesus

The essence of John’s message is that knowing Jesus personally transforms us. It’s not merely about adhering to a set of beliefs but about a profound relationship with the living Christ. This relationship brings fullness of joy, a joy that surpasses all circumstances and challenges.

John’s life and writings challenge us to examine our own identity. Are we living as those who are deeply loved by Jesus? Do we reflect the light of Christ in our interactions and decisions? This identity shift requires us to commit to God and His people, to stop delaying obedience, and to embrace the transformation that comes from living in the truth of who Jesus is.

Our New Identity

To live in this new identity, we must first submit to God’s transforming work in our lives. This begins with prayer, allowing God’s Word to shape us, and connecting deeply with His people. As we do this, we experience the fullness of joy that John speaks of — a joy rooted in the assurance of our salvation and the reality of our intimate relationship with God.

As we go about our lives, let us remember that we carry the light of Christ within us. This light is meant to shine in the darkest places, bringing hope and truth to a world in desperate need. By living out our identity in Christ, we not only find our own joy but also draw others into the transformative power of Jesus’ love.

John’s message is both a reminder and a call to action. It reminds us of the profound love and sacrifice of Jesus, which gives us a new identity, and it calls us to live out this identity with joy, integrity, and purpose. Let us embrace this great exchange and walk boldly in the light of Christ, knowing that we are deeply loved and called to share that love with the world.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director