Monthly Archives: May 2026

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: Dragging Church Members into Hypocrisy by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice we can add to the list of things that damage the Lord’s church is the act of dragging other brethren into hypocrisy and error. This problem is not new; it has existed since the days of early Christianity and has caused great divisions, stumbling blocks, and spiritual harm within the body of Christ. When brethren with influence, leadership, or spiritual reputation engage in conduct contrary to the will of God, they often end up negatively influencing other members of the congregation. For this reason, the Bible exhorts every Christian to live with integrity and carefulness, recognizing that our actions affect those around us.

The apostle Paul wrote the following to the brethren in Galatia:

“But when Peter came to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed. For before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocriste with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy” (Galatians 2:11–13).

Many of us know what happened in this context. The apostle Peter, out of fear of certain Jews, began to act hypocritically by withdrawing from the Gentile Christians. Paul had to confront him publicly because his conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel (Gal. 2:14). The purpose of this article is not to analyze every detail of the context, but to consider one of the most dangerous consequences of hypocrisy: the negative influence it can have on other Christians.

The text states that “even Barnabas was carried away by their hypocrisy” (Gal. 2:13). The word carried away implies being led along with others into wrong behavior. The term hypocrisy denotes acting falsely together with others—pretending or participating collectively in an improper practice. This teaches us a very serious lesson: sin and hypocrisy can spread quickly within a congregation when they are not confronted Biblically.

The case of Barnabas makes this incident even more striking. Barnabas was known as an exemplary Christian. The Bible presents him as a generous man who helped the needy (Acts 4:36–37), a brother who supported the apostle Paul when many were afraid of him (Acts 9:26–27), a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith” (Acts 11:24), and a faithful defender of the gospel (Acts 15). Yet even a man as spiritual as Barnabas could be negatively influenced by the conduct of others. This shows that no Christian should think he is completely immune to the danger of being dragged into error (1 Cor. 10:12).

The same thing happens today in many congregations. Some brethren possess great influence because of their seniority, Biblical knowledge, close friendships, or position within the church. When such brethren begin to practice sinful attitudes or promote ideas contrary to sound doctrine, others end up following them blindly. Some drag others into discouragement, constant criticism, division, doctrinal liberalism, worldliness, favoritism, rebellion against Biblical authority, or spiritual apathy.

The Bible repeatedly warns about the danger of bad influences:

  • “Bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33).
  • “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Gal. 5:9).
  • “Do not participate in the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Eph. 5:11).
  • “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled” (Heb. 12:15).

It is sad to observe how some congregations have suffered divisions and conflicts because certain influential brethren persuaded others to follow the wrong path. At times, respected brethren use their influence to sow discontent, speak evil of others, question Biblical decisions, or promote carnal attitudes. Such actions deeply damage the unity and spirituality of the church. Paul urged the brethren: “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them” (Rom. 16:17).

We must also recognize that hypocrisy not only harms the one who practices it, but also new converts and those who are weak in the faith. Jesus spoke severely about those who cause others to stumble:

“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6).

Every Christian must carefully examine the impact of his example. Our words, attitudes, and actions can strengthen or destroy the faith of others. For this reason, Paul wrote: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Every Christian should strive to be a godly influence and not a stumbling block to the church.

What lessons can we learn from Galatians 2:13 regarding the danger of dragging others into hypocrisy?

  1. Even faithful brethren can be led into error.

No one should place excessive confidence in himself (1 Cor. 10:12).

  1. Brethren with influence can affect others positively or negatively.

Example carries enormous power within the congregation (1 Tim. 4:12).

  1. We must not follow any man blindly.

Our supreme loyalty must always be to Christ and His Word (Acts 5:29).

  1. When a brother walks disorderly, he must be exhorted with love and firmness.

Paul corrected Peter publicly because the damage was public (Gal. 2:11–14).

  1. Hypocrisy can spread quickly within the church.

Tolerated sin ends up contaminating others (1 Cor. 5:6).

  1. Every Christian must guard his influence.

Jesus taught that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matt. 5:13–16).

  1. True unity can exist only when all walk according to the truth of the gospel.

Unity without truth does not please God (John 17:17; Eph. 4:1–6).

The Lord’s church in many places has been hurt and hindered in its spiritual work because of brethren who do not conduct themselves according to God’s will and who also negatively influence others. For this reason, every Christian must constantly pray to God never to become an instrument of division, hypocrisy, or stumbling within the congregation.

Let us instead strive to be faithful Christians who encourage others to remain firm in truth, love, and spiritual purity. May our example always lead others closer to Christ and never away from Him.

Willie A. Alvarenga | (817) 681 4543 | btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: “IMITATING THE LIFE OF JESUS” by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One of the greatest challenges young Christians face today is imitating the life of Jesus. We live in a society where many young people look to artists, athletes, singers, or celebrities as role models, forgetting that the only perfect example worthy of imitation is Christ Jesus. The apostle Paul wrote to the saints in Corinth: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). The verb “imitate” is in the imperative mood and present tense, indicating that following the example of Paul and Christ is not an optional suggestion, but a continual command for all Christians.

The Bible clearly teaches that the Christian must not conform to the ways of this world. Paul exhorted: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). Sadly, many young people allow fashions, social media, wrong friendships, and fleshly desires to influence their lives more than the Word of God. The apostle John warned: “Do not love the world or the things in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). Everything the world offers is temporary and can lead young people away from God. Moses understood this truth when he chose to suffer with the people of God rather than enjoy “the passing pleasures of sin” (Heb. 11:25).

Faithful young Christians must strive daily to imitate the virtues and character of Christ. Jesus Himself declared: “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you” (Jn. 13:15). The disciple of Christ must reflect His life in every aspect of conduct.

The young Christian must imitate Jesus in:

  1. His obedience to the Father.
    Jesus always did the will of God. He said: “For I always do those things that please Him” (Jn. 8:29). Even in the midst of suffering, Christ perfectly obeyed the Father (Heb. 5:8-9; 10:7-9). The young person who desires to please God must learn to obey His Word without reservation (Jn. 14:15).
  2. His perseverance through trials.
    Jesus endured rejection, mockery, and persecution, yet He never abandoned His mission. Peter wrote: “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” (1 Pet. 2:21-25). Many young people face social pressure, criticism, and temptations, but they must remain steadfast in the faith (Jas. 1:12).
  3. His love for others.
    Christ demonstrated incomparable love toward all people. He taught: “Love one another; as I have loved you” (Jn. 13:34-35). Christian love is demonstrated through actions, service, patience, and compassion (1 Cor. 13:4-7).
  4. His prayer life.
    Jesus devoted constant time to prayer. Mark 1:35 states that early in the morning He sought solitary places to pray. In Gethsemane He also demonstrated complete dependence upon the Father (Mt. 26:36-46). Young people need to develop a strong spiritual life through continual prayer (1 Thess. 5:17).
  5. His compassion for lost souls.
    Jesus had compassion on the multitudes because they were “like sheep having no shepherd” (Mt. 9:36-38). Christ came to seek and save the lost (Lk. 19:10). Young Christians should be concerned about sharing the gospel with friends and family (Mk. 16:15-16).
  6. His willingness to forgive.
    Even while hanging on the cross, Jesus said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Lk. 23:34). Young people must avoid bitterness and practice forgiveness (Eph. 4:31-32; Col. 3:13).
  7. His self-control in overcoming temptation.
    Jesus overcame Satan’s temptations by using the Word of God (Mt. 4:1-11). Today, young people face temptations related to immorality, bad friendships, drugs, corrupt language, and sinful entertainment. Nevertheless, God provides a way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13). Self-control is an essential characteristic of the faithful Christian (Gal. 5:22-23).
  8. His humility and spirit of service.
    Jesus, though the Son of God, came to serve and not to be served (Mk. 10:45). He washed His disciples’ feet as an example of humility and service to others (Jn. 13:3-5). Young Christians must reject pride and learn to serve others with sincerity and love (Phil. 2:3-5).
  9. His purity of life.
    Christ lived without sin (1 Pet. 2:22). In a world filled with moral corruption, young people must remain pure in thought, word, and conduct. Paul exhorted Timothy: “Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12).
  10. His faithfulness to the truth.
    Jesus always taught divine truth without compromise (Jn. 17:17). Today many change the truth in order to please the world, but the young Christian must remain firm in sound doctrine (2 Tim. 1:13; Jude 3).

Young people who choose to imitate the life of Jesus will be a light in the midst of darkness (Mt. 5:14-16). Their lives will positively influence others and glorify God. Although the Christian life is not always easy, it is worthwhile to follow in the footsteps of the Savior. Peter asked: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (Jn. 6:68).

All young people are encouraged to seek God daily through prayer, diligent study of the Scriptures, and faithful obedience. If they allow Christ to live in them, then the world will see the character of Jesus reflected in their lives (Gal. 2:20). The young person who imitates Christ will find purpose, strength, and eternal hope.

Willie A. Alvarenga | (817) 681 4543 | btsop2004@gmail.com

PRACTICES THAT HURT THE LORD’S CHURCH: WIVES MISTREATING THEIR HUSBANDS by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that we can add to the list, and one that has seriously harmed the Lord’s church, is wives mistreating their husbands. This has been a very serious problem for a long time and, sadly, it continues to affect many Christian homes. God designed marriage to be a relationship of love, respect, mutual help, and spiritual edification (Gen. 2:18; Eph. 5:22-33). When a wife fails to fulfill the responsibilities, God has given her, she not only affects her marriage, but also the spiritual stability of the home and the well-being of the church.

The mistreatment of husbands by wives can be observed in many ways: (1) Not showing respect toward their husbands (Eph. 5:33; 1 Pet. 3:1-6), (2) Not submitting to them according to the order established by God (Eph. 5:22-24; Col. 3:18), (3) Being quarrelsome and contentious with their husbands (Prov. 21:9; 27:15), (4) Being wrathful and controlled by anger (Prov. 21:19), (5) Speaking evil of their husbands before others (Eph. 4:29; Mt. 12:36-37), (6) Refusing to live as the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31, (7) Being foolish women who tear down their homes with their own hands (Prov. 14:1), (8) Failing to honor marital faithfulness (Heb. 13:4; Mt. 5:28), (9) Neglecting the home and family responsibilities (Tit. 2:4-5), (10) Becoming a stumbling block to their husbands by failing to encourage them spiritually (Job 2:9), (11) Refusing to demonstrate a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God (1 Pet. 3:4), and (12) Failing to fulfill their marital duties (1 Cor. 7:1-5).

In some cases, the behavior of certain wives has become one of the reasons many husbands do not live happily with them. It also prevents husbands from properly fulfilling the duties they have within marriage. This should never be the case; nevertheless, sadly, it often is. Many husbands suffer emotionally and spiritually because of the mistreatment they receive from their wives. These wives do not always consider the great harm they cause when their behavior is not in harmony with the will of God.

The Bible clearly teaches that the home must be characterized by peace, love, and mutual edification. Colossians 3:19 commands husbands to love their wives and not be bitter against them; likewise, wives should seek to have a conduct that helps and strengthens their husbands. Marriage was not designed to be a relationship of competition, manipulation, or disrespect, but rather a union where both glorify God (Eccl. 4:9-12).

In what ways does the mistreatment of husbands by wives affect the church? Consider the following consequences:

  1. Husbands are hindered from fulfilling the responsibilities God has entrusted to them.
  2. Some husbands do not become preachers because their wives do not wish to support them in the work of the Lord.
  3. Some are unable to serve as elders because of the unfaithful or disorderly conduct of their wives before God (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Tit. 1:6-9).
  4. Others cannot become deacons because of a lack of spiritual support in the home (1 Tim. 3:12).
  5. Many cannot fully participate in certain ministries because of constant conflicts within the marriage.
  6. The church receives reproach from the world when it observes the unfaithful conduct of some wives.
  7. The Word of God is blasphemed because of wives who fail to fulfill their God-given duties (Tit. 2:5).
  8. Children are negatively affected when they grow up in homes filled with conflict and disrespect.
  9. The spiritual atmosphere of the home is weakened, affecting prayer, Bible study, and faithfulness to God.
  10. Satan takes advantage of these difficulties to divide homes and weaken the church (1 Pet. 5:8).

This is a very serious matter with painful consequences. The church is hurt when married Christian women do not conduct themselves as God commands in His Word. It should always be the case that God’s people strive to live in such a way that He may be glorified in the lives of all the members of the church (Mt. 5:16; 1 Cor. 10:31).

Thanks be to God, change is possible. Our heavenly Father has provided everything necessary for wives to develop a godly and pleasing character before Him. Through the study of the Word, prayer, humility, and a sincere desire to obey God, every wife can become a blessing to her husband, her home, and the church. All wives are encouraged to strive every day to become the kind of wife God commands them to be. This can truly be accomplished!

Willie A. Alvarenga | btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: NOT GIVING IN TO THE PRESSURE OF THE WORLD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One of the greatest challenges young people face today is not giving in to the pressure of the world. We live in a society where sin, immorality, disobedience to God, and the rejection of Biblical values are constantly promoted. Young people are bombarded daily through social media, friendships, entertainment, and modern culture, all of which often seek to draw them away from God and His will.

The wise man wrote: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not” (Prov. 1:10). The term “consent” denotes the act of allowing oneself to be seduced or influenced by someone; yielding to their demands or voluntarily accepting a certain course of action as a sign of obedience or submission. God desires for young people to have the courage to say “no” to sin and to remain steadfast in the midst of a corrupt generation (Phil. 2:15).

The pressure of the world can manifest itself in many ways: pressure to participate in impure conversations, consume sinful entertainment, dress immodestly, engage in bullying, use drugs or alcohol, participate in sexual immorality, lie in order to be accepted, or abandon faithfulness to God in order to fit in with others. Many young people have yielded to this pressure because they desire acceptance from others. However, the Bible clearly teaches that “evil companionships corrupt good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33).

Moses understood that the pleasures of sin are temporary. Hebrews 11:25 says that he chose “rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.” The world offers temporary pleasure; however, such pleasure always brings painful consequences. Romans 6:23 teaches that “the wages of sin is death,” and James 1:13-15 explains that sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth spiritual death.

The Christian young person must remember that he cannot love the world and please God at the same time. The apostle John wrote: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). James also declares that “friendship with the world is enmity with God” (Jas. 4:4). For this reason, the faithful young Christian must strive to live a holy life separated from sin (1 Pet. 1:14-16).

What can the Christian young person do in order not to give in to the pressure of the world? The Bible offers practical principles that will help one remain faithful:

  1. Pray constantly to God in order not to fall into temptation and ask Him for wisdom (Mt. 26:41; Jas. 1:5-6; Phil. 4:6-7).
  2. Put on the whole armor of God in order to resist the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:10-18).
  3. Imitate the example of faithful young people such as Joseph, who fled from immorality (Gen. 39:7-12), and Daniel, who purposed not to defile himself (Dan. 1:8).
  4. Fill your mind with the Word of God, because it helps overcome sin (Ps. 119:9-11; Col. 3:16).
  5. Choose wise and spiritual friendships that will help you draw closer to God (Prov. 13:20).
  6. Remember that the things of this world are temporary and will soon pass away (1 Jn. 2:15-17; 2 Cor. 4:18).
  7. Develop a deep love for God with all your heart (Mk. 12:30), for those who truly love God will seek to obey Him (Jn. 14:15).
  8. Stay busy in spiritual matters, faithfully participating in worship, Bible study, and good works (Heb. 10:24-25).
  9. Think before acting, remembering that every decision has consequences (Gal. 6:7-8).
  10. Trust that God will always provide a way of escape in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:13).

The Christian young person is not alone in this struggle. God promises to strengthen those who remain faithful. Paul wrote: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil. 4:13). Although the pressure of the world may be great, the power of God is far greater. Therefore, the young Christian must remain steadfast, courageous, and faithful, always remembering that in Christ “we are more than conquerors” (Rom. 8:37-39). Therefore, never give in to the pressure of the world.

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: LEARNING TO STAY BUSY IN THE WORK OF THE LORD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is learning to stay busy in the work of the Lord. The distractions that this world presents to the young Christian are many. In most cases, these distractions keep young people from remaining active in the service to God. The Bible reminds us that Christians must not allow the world to pull them away from their faithfulness to God. 1 John teaches that we must not love the world or the things in the world because the world is passing away, but the one who does the will of God abides forever (1 John 2:15-17). Young Christians must remember that Satan constantly seeks opportunities to discourage them from serving God faithfully. For this reason, they must remain spiritually alert and steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

What are some activities in which young people should participate, but often fail to do because of distractions? The following are worthy of serious consideration: (1) Participating in the different privileges during worship to God such as singing, leading prayers, Scripture readings, assisting with the Lord’s Supper, devotionals, and other areas of service, (2) Participating in youth activities that strengthen Christian fellowship and spiritual growth, (3) Taking part in personal evangelism by sharing the gospel with friends, classmates, neighbors, and relatives, (4) Helping in congregational events such as lectureships, gospel meetings, seminars, vacation Bible schools, and evangelistic campaigns, and (5) Encouraging other young people to become active and faithful members of the congregation. Ecclesiastes reminds young people to “remember now your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Likewise, 1 Timothy teaches that young Christians can be examples “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

God has always been pleased with young people who take seriously the work of His kingdom. Throughout the Scriptures we read about faithful young servants such as Joseph, Daniel, and Timothy who remained faithful to God despite difficult circumstances and worldly pressures. Young person, you have great potential to serve our God faithfully. Never underestimate the value of your service in the kingdom of Christ. Therefore, you are encouraged to make every effort to keep the distractions of this world from pulling you away from offering acceptable service to God. Colossians exhorts Christians: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Colossians 3:23). To all the young people who are already active in the Lord’s work, thank you for your faithful service to God and for your example to others. Keep pressing forward, “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

PRACTICES THAT HURT THE LORD’S CHURCH – HUSBANDS MISTREATING THEIR WIVES by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another dangerous practice that we can add to the list—one that has seriously harmed the Lord’s church—is that of husbands mistreating their wives. This has been a very serious problem for a long time, and one that continues to cause pain, sorrow, and division in many homes. The mistreatment of wives by their husbands can be seen in the following ways:

  1. Failing to love their wives as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25)
  2. Treating their wives harshly (Col. 3:19)
  3. Failing to provide for the physical and spiritual needs of the home (1 Tim. 5:8)
  4. Failing to be the spiritual head of the home (Eph. 5:23)
  5. Not treating their wives as the weaker vessel (1 Pet. 3:7)
  6. Using words that wound and emotionally destroy (Eph. 4:29)
  7. Being unfaithful to them (Matt. 5:28; Heb. 13:4)
  8. Neglecting the time and attention they should give them (Eccl. 9:9)
  9. Acting with selfishness and pride (Phil. 2:3–4)
  10. Physically abusing their wives through domestic violence.

These are only some of the ways a husband can mistreat his wife. Such practices are sinful before God and completely contrary to the divine design for marriage.

Sadly, the mistreatment of wives by their husbands is something that has been observed even in some churches of the Lord. Beloved brethren, this must never be the case in our marriages. The Christian home should be a place where love, respect, understanding, and peace reign. It has never been God’s will for a wife to live in fear, sadness, or insecurity. Marriage was established by God for blessing and companionship (Gen. 2:18, 24), not for suffering or abuse.

The apostle Paul wrote the following to the saints in Ephesus:

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones” (Eph. 5:25–30).

Through this section we can observe how the apostle instructs husbands to:

  1. Love their wives with a deep, sacrificial love that imitates Christ’s love for His church,
  2. Always seek the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of their wives,
  3. Love and care for their wives as their own bodies, and
  4. Treat their wives with tenderness, patience, and consideration.

Every husband who obeys these directives will keep himself far from mistreating his wife. However, every husband who ignores the commandments God has established for marriage will end up destroying his own home and drifting away from the divine will.

The Bible clearly teaches that the character of a Christian must reflect gentleness, self-control, and love. Paul wrote: “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice” (Eph. 4:31). He also wrote: “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Eph. 4:32). A husband who constantly lives in anger, shouting, threats, and violence is acting in a way that is incompatible with the Christian life.

The apostle Peter also instructed husbands, saying:

“Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Pet. 3:7).

This passage emphasizes that a husband must honor and respect his wife. The man who humiliates, despises, or mistreats his wife endangers his relationship with God, for his prayers will be hindered.

It is also important to remember that children suffer greatly when they witness violence and mistreatment in the home. A home filled with shouting, threats, and aggression leaves deep emotional wounds. Christian parents must raise their children “in the discipline and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4), showing by their example what a godly and God-pleasing marriage looks like.

Therefore, what else can be done to prevent the mistreatment of wives? Husbands, consider the following:

  1. Remember that your wife is a great blessing in your life (Prov. 18:22)
  2. Remember that your wife must be treated with love, dignity, and respect (1 Pet. 3:7)
  3. Remember that failing to treat your wife well will result in your prayers not being heard or answered by God (1 Pet. 3:7)
  4. Remember that true love “does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked” (1 Cor. 13:4–7)
  5. Remember that you will give account to God for the way you treated your family (Rom. 14:12; 2 Cor. 5:10), and
  6. Remember that mistreating your wife can result in the loss of your hope of eternal life if there is no genuine repentance (Rom. 6:23).

It is imperative to remember that mistreating your wife will prevent you from experiencing spiritual growth according to God’s will. Marriage is an institution established by God and, as such, must be respected and held in high honor (Heb. 13:4). God has already provided sufficient instruction to enjoy a beautiful and stable relationship in marriage. Therefore, let us always strive to show love, patience, respect, and faithfulness toward our wives. Only then will we have strong homes, healthy marriages, and congregations that are pleasing before God.

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: LEARNING TO PRAY AS JESUS PRAYED by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is learning to pray as Jesus prayed. Prayer is an essential part of the Christian life (Phil. 4:6–7; Heb. 4:16; 1 Thess. 5:17). One cannot live according to God’s will unless the practice of prayer is taken very seriously (Matt. 26:41). The Bible teaches much about our communication with God, showing that prayer strengthens faith, brings peace to the heart, and draws us closer to the Father (Ps. 55:17; Jer. 33:3). The apostle Paul emphasized the command to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17; Col. 4:2; Rom. 12:12), reminding us that prayer must be constant, persistent, and full of gratitude.

This practice of prayer was very close to the heart of Jesus. He is truly our greatest and supreme example to follow regarding prayer (1 Pet. 2:21; Mk. 1:35). Throughout the Gospel accounts according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we see that Jesus practiced prayer in different contexts and key moments of His life. For example, He prayed at His baptism (Luke 3:21), showing dependence on the Father from the beginning of His ministry; He prayed very early in the morning (Mark 1:35), demonstrating spiritual discipline; He prayed for long periods before making important decisions (Luke 6:12), teaching us to seek divine guidance; He prayed before eating (John 6:11), showing gratitude; He prayed for His disciples (John 17), demonstrating love and intercession; and He prayed during the most difficult moments of His life (Matt. 26:36–46; Heb. 5:7), revealing His complete submission to the will of God.

Furthermore, Jesus not only practiced prayer, but He also taught how to pray correctly. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructed His disciples about the proper attitude in prayer (Matt. 6:5–15), emphasizing sincerity, humility, and trust in God. He also taught the importance of perseverance through parables such as the persistent friend and the persistent widow (Luke 11:5–13; 18:1–8). Likewise, He showed that prayer must be offered with faith (Mark 11:24), according to God’s will (Matt. 6:10), and with a pure heart (Ps. 66:18).

This is the prayer life that every young Christian must imitate from Jesus. It is a challenge to live this way in a world full of distractions, but it is not impossible (Phil. 4:13). It requires discipline, spiritual desire, and a heart willing to please God (Col. 3:17). Constant prayer will help the young person overcome temptation, strengthen faith, and remain steadfast in the path of the Lord (Eph. 6:18).

Therefore, you are encouraged to pray to God for wisdom (James 1:5) and to learn to pray as He desires. Make prayer a daily priority in your life. The blessings you will receive by doing this will be great, for God hears His children and answers according to His perfect will (1 John 5:14–15).

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH – Parents Ignoring the Biblical Education of Their Children by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another dangerous practice that, throughout the centuries, has seriously harmed the Lord’s church is that of parents ignoring the Biblical education of their children. This has been a serious problem for a long time. From the days of the Old Testament, God has emphasized the responsibility of parents to instruct their children in His Word (Deut. 6:6–7; 11:18–19). However, despite this clear teaching, there are congregations that have been deeply affected because parents have failed to educate their children in the knowledge of God’s Word.

For example, there are parents who are content with simply sending their children to Sunday and Wednesday classes but fail to provide instruction in their own homes, forgetting that the primary responsibility rests on them and not exclusively on the church (Eph. 6:4; Prov. 22:6). There are parents who, when their children make mistakes, do not correct them properly—that is, according to the Word of God (Prov. 13:24; 29:15). There are also parents who do not believe in discipline to help their children; such have adopted the ways of the world instead of what God teaches through His Word (Heb. 12:5–11).

Likewise, some parents do not speak about God at home, do not read the Scriptures with their children, nor encourage spiritual conversations, thus neglecting one of the most important tools for shaping faithful hearts (Deut. 6:7; Ps. 78:4–7). Others allow worldly influences—such as bad company or inappropriate entertainment—to shape their children’s character more than the Word of God (1 Cor. 15:33; Rom. 12:2). All of this, in one way or another, affects the work of the Lord.

We must remember that children are the present and the future of the church. They are the ones who will continue the Lord’s work once their parents are no longer alive (Ps. 127:3–5). Therefore, parents must be concerned about the Biblical education of their children, since this will help them in their personal and spiritual lives, guiding them in the right path (Prov. 3:5–6; Eccl. 12:1).

In what ways can we take an active role in the Biblical education of our children? The following are some ways in which this can be accomplished.

We educate our children:

  1. By setting a good example of faithfulness to God (1 Tim. 4:12; Matt. 5:16; Phil. 3:17).
  2. By taking time to counsel them in the way of the Lord (Titus 2:6–8; Ps. 119:24; Prov. 4:1–4).
  3. By praying together as a family (Eph. 6:18; Col. 4:2; 1 Thess. 5:17).
  4. By encouraging them to memorize the Scriptures (Ps. 119:9, 11; Prov. 7:1–3; Col. 3:16).
  5. By encouraging them to be present at the worship services of the church (Heb. 10:24–25; Matt. 6:33; Ps. 122:1).
  6. By encouraging them to be diligent students of the Word of God (2 Tim. 2:15; Acts 17:11; 2 Tim. 3:14–15).
  7. By encouraging them to love God with all their being (Mark 12:30; Deut. 10:12; Josh. 24:15).
  8. By correcting and disciplining them with love according to God’s will (Eph. 6:4; Prov. 22:15; Heb. 12:7).
  9. By protecting them from negative influences and guiding them to choose good company (Prov. 1:10; 1 Cor. 15:33; Ps. 1:1–2).
  10. By teaching them to fear God and keep His commandments (Eccl. 12:13; Prov. 1:7).

These are only some of the ways we can be actively involved in the Biblical education of our children. I am more than sure that all parents desire for their children to do well and one day be in heaven with God. However, for this to become a reality, as parents we must continually be concerned that our children know God and remain faithful to Him in all things (John 17:3; Rev. 2:10).

If this is not done, we will suffer as we see a generation that does not know God nor the great works He has done throughout the ages (Judges 2:10–11; Hosea 4:6). May God grant us the wisdom to diligently care for the Biblical education of our children (James 1:5).