Scripture Reading: Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and  a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.
—Matthew 5:38-41

Summary: The teachings and example of Jesus Christ demonstrate a life of love and nonresistance. Disciples of Christ are called to follow His example and meet evil and injustice with prayer, love, and forgiveness rather than with force and violence. God’s church historically and presently renounces military service .

Definitions: Nonresistance—The policy or practice of not resisting violence or established authority by force, even when tyrannical (dictionary.com).
Pacifism—Refusal to bear arms on moral or religious grounds (Merriam-Webster).

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Scripture Reading: Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the LORD your God, and cry unto the LORD. —Joel 1:14

Summary: Fasting is a long-held practice of God’s people in both the Old and New Testament and is a needful part of a Christian’s life today. It is an outward act of self-denial that can help focus the mind, body, and spirit on the things of God. It is a channel of power with God for deliverance, guidance, anointing, and spiritual growth.

Definition: While Christians should practice self-denial in many areas, the word “fasting” in the Bible means specifically to abstain from food.Read more

Scripture Reading: Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. — Isaiah 53:4-5

Summary: Part of Christ’s purpose is to minister to the physical and emotional needs of mankind. His ministry, and that of the apostles, was full of healing the sick. Jesus made provision on the cross for the healing of the body. Trusting in the Lord for healing is still a wonderful, active privilege of God’s children today.Read more

Scripture Reading: Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. —2 Corinthians 13:5a

Definition: Self-examination is the study and examination of one’s own behavior, qualities, conduct, and motivations; introspection.

Summary: It important to examine our own spiritual life lest we justify ourselves and become hypocrites, deceived, and ultimately miss heaven.

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Scripture Reading: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word [Jesus], and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. —1 John 5:7

Summary: There is one and only one God, eternally existent in the union of three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While these persons are distinct from one another in individuality and function, they are one in essence and nature.

Definition: The Trinity, formed from the words “tri” and “unity,” describes the state of being threefold and yet one. It is the theological term employed to signify the doctrine of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit being three coexistent, coeternal persons and yet one God.Read more