Living the Christlike Life!

Before we explore what it means to live a Christlike life, I want to acknowledge that writing about these teachings does not mean I have mastered them. We are all a work in progress, continually growing in faith and allowing God to transform us. As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:12, we must keep pressing forward, pursuing spiritual maturity until Christ is fully formed in us (Galatians 4:19). This means moving beyond simply knowing God's Word to putting it into practice through our love, attitudes, and actions. The goal is not merely to appear Christian but to become increasingly Christlike. As we reflect on Romans 12:9–21, let us do so with humility, recognising that we are still growing and that becoming more like Jesus is a lifelong journey that requires God's grace.

Seeing Beyond the Surface

“For man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7

One of the greatest dangers in our walk with God is making spiritual decisions based solely on what we can see, hear, feel, or understand naturally. What we see may be real, but what we see is not always the whole truth. Our eyes can perceive appearance, but they cannot always discern motives. Our ears can hear words, but they cannot always perceive intentions. Our minds can process information, but human understanding alone cannot reveal everything that is taking place in a person’s heart or in a situation. This is why we need discernment.

Christ Lives in Me!

“My old identity has been co-crucified with Christ and no longer lives. And now the essence of this new life is no longer mine, for the Anointed One lives his life through me—we live in union as one!” — Galatians 2:20 TPT

The Harvest Is Great: Will You Be a Labourer?

“The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.” — Luke 10:2 (KJV)

Self-Control and Direction from the Holy One!

There is a powerful connection between self-control and divine direction. When we lose sight of God as our King, we can easily lose our sense of restraint, discipline, and direction. The Bible says:

Losing Ourselves to Gain Christ!

One of the greatest paradoxes of the Christian life is this: we truly find life only when we lose it. To the natural mind, this seems contradictory. The world teaches us to pursue self, promote self, trust self, and preserve self. Yet the call of Christ is altogether different. He calls us to lose ourselves so that we may gain Him.

Saved by Grace, Called to Serve!

Brothers and sisters, when we consider the greatness of our salvation, we cannot help but stand in awe of the grace of God. Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:9-10 that God "hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began."

The Ultimate Goal of Self: To Be Like God!

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…” — Galatians 2:20

The greatest enemy of spiritual growth is not always Satan directly, but the fallen nature called “self” or “the flesh.” The ultimate ambition of self is to replace God, resist His authority, and become an alternative god.

Those Serving with Tears!

“Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” (Psalm 126:5–6)

Abandoned to Self: The Cost of Rejecting God!

Scripture reveals a sobering truth: when people consistently reject God, He may eventually allow them to have what they insist on — themselves. This is not an act of cruelty, but a righteous judgment rooted in divine holiness and human responsibility.

The Amazing Love of God!

The love of God is not merely something He does; it is who He is. “God is love” (1 John 4:8). From eternity, love has been the very nature and essence of God, and everything He does flows from that love. Scripture reminds us that “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Our response to God is always rooted in His prior, initiating love toward us.

Giving in the Kingdom: What Jesus Really Teaches About Money, Grace, and Freedom

There are few topics in the Christian life as misunderstood—and as misused—as giving. Many sincere believers long to honour God, yet walk under burdens He never placed on them. Some give out of fear of judgment, others out of pressure from people, and some even hand over money they do not have—believing this somehow makes them more spiritual or earns God’s favour. But not only is this picture of God unhealthy—it is completely unbiblical.

Silent Battles: Encouraging Men Facing Emotional Pain in Marriage

In many societies, men are expected to be pillars of strength—unshakable, stoic, and always in control. Yet behind closed doors, countless men quietly endure emotional pain, rejection, and even abuse within their marriages. They suffer in silence because admitting such pain is often seen as weakness rather than humanity.

PTDF Releases List of Successful 2025/2026 Scholarship Recipients (UK, Germany, France & Malaysia) (MSc/PhD)

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is pleased to announce the release of the list of successful awardees for the 2025/2026 UK Split-Site Programme as well as the Germany, France, and Malaysia (GFM) Strategic Partnership Scholarships (MSc/PhD).

The Story Behind “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

The hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" carries a deeply moving and powerful story—one rooted in faith, persecution, and unwavering devotion.

2025/2026 PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship (UK, Germany, France, Malaysia, and CPESK Nigeria)

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), a Federal Government agency mandated to develop indigenous human capacity, Research and technology for the oil and gas industry, invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for the Overseas MSc and PhD scholarships to specific programs at selected institutions under its Overseas Scholarship Scheme for the 2025 academic session.

The Greatest Baby Dedication Ever!

The dedication of baby Jesus, recorded in Luke 2:21-40, reveals themes of obedience, prophecy, and redemption. It contrasts modern idealized Christmas celebrations with the humble and challenging conditions of Jesus’ birth, emphasizing God’s faithfulness. 

Beyond Death: Unveiling Hades, Hell, Paradise, and the Mysteries of the Afterlife!

The afterlife has captivated humanity for centuries. The Bible sheds light on what happens after death, yet terms like Sheol, Hades, Hell, Paradise, Abraham’s bosom, and the Lake of Fire often raise questions. When someone dies, it is not the end but rather the separation of the soul and spirit from the body. This transition leads individuals to a temporary realm called Hades, where spirits without bodies are contained. Hades has two compartments—Paradise for the righteous and Hell for the unrighteous (distinct from the Lake of Fire). These temporary states last until God’s final judgment. Let us explore these biblical concepts to gain clarity. 

Seven Evidences of Christ’s Resurrection!

The significance of Easter is often overlooked or distorted. All too often, Easter Sunday is more of a “coming out” ritual, a part of the celebration of the commencement of Spring, than it is an observance and celebration of the resurrection of our Lord. Once a year church attenders can show up to shock the preacher, and to give him his annual “shot” at them as they attend. Do you really trust the fact that Jesus rose from the dead! Here are seven evidences of it: 

Life-Giving Words From a Loving Saviour!

Jesus has just endured a horrible night. He has been unemotionally betrayed by one disciple and forsaken by all the rest. He has been unjustly arrested and charged. He has been inhumanely tortured and unceasingly mocked. He has been inequitably traded like so much merchandise for a common murderer. Finally, he has been unconscionably condemned to crucifixion. The account in Luke 23:26-31 teaches us that Jesus extends mercy to those who are unmerciful. As we celebrate Easter this year, we reflect on the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a reminder of the importance of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Without Him, none of this would be possible. 

God And Your work – Word For Today

‘I have chosen Bezalel.’ Exodus 31:2 NIV

"Every occupation has its own honor before God. Ordinary work is a divine vocation or calling." - Martin Luther.

The first person in the Bible who was said to be ‘filled with the Spirit of God’ was Bezalel. And if his name doesn’t ring a bell, it’s because he wasn’t a prophet, priest, king, or apostle. He was a craftsman, skilled in design. He had an eye for colour and a flair for management, and when it came time for building the tabernacle, he oversaw the job. Here is what God said about him: ‘I have chosen Bezalel…and…filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills – to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts’ (Exodus 31:2-5 NIV).

Part 2: Using Sex as a Weapon!

Sexuality is a wonderful part of our humanness, yet its importance in the success of a relationship is often overlooked or simply avoided. In the months and years leading up to marriage, a couple’s sex life can be hot and steamy, adding a heady level of passion to the relationship. Over time, long term damage can result by oversight and neglect. When sex is used to make war rather than to make love, the effects can be devastating. On a neurobiological level alone, the body is deprived of the truly positive effects of several neurochemicals, including the bond-building oxytocin. Instead, negative sexual war tactics build levels of stress-related neurochemicals, such as adrenaline and cortisol.

Word For Today: You Have Only Two Options: Forgiveness or Bitterness

The Bible says, ‘Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him…“up to seventy times seven”’ (Matthew 18:21-22 NKJV). Seventy times seven equals 490 times. And it’s your ‘brother’, someone you have to live or work with, whom you’re called to forgive. In essence Jesus was saying, ‘Forgive, and keep on forgiving if you want to have a relationship with this person.’

Part 1: Using Sex as a Weapon!

Sex is the greatest gift of marriage; it is meant to be enjoyed, cherished, featured, and respected. It is what makes marriage unique among all other relationships—best friends with benefits—for life! Using sex as a weapon turns intimacy into warfare. In seeking “to win,” both men and women will lose. Trying to manipulate your partner will only drive the partner away. Using sex as a weapon is the primary cause of sexual dysfunction within marriage and both men and women are guilty of doing so. If not addressed, often leads to divorce.

Living a Life Worthy of Christ’s Calling?

When Jesus saved us, he didn’t just save us for heaven. He saved us to live for him, to do works in his name, to rule with him, and many other things. Much of the teaching in the first half of Ephesians is about our calling. We were elected and predestined before time, redeemed, and forgiven. We were dead in our transgressions and sins, but now, we have been raised and seated with Christ in heavenly places. How can we live in a manner worthy of all Christ did for us?

God’s Plan for Sexual Intimacy In Marriage!

“Would you rather be single and lonely or married and bored?” So asks one well-known comedian. From the world’s perspective, these are the choices when it comes to marriage and relationships. This suggests that the way to avoid both loneliness and boredom is to date but never commit to marriage. Sounds descriptive of our culture, doesn’t it?

Our culture glorifies sex outside of marriage, making it the “human experience.” However the church can go the opposite pathway of disparaging sex altogether.

Reasons Sex Is Important in Marriage!

The best thing about marriage is having a long-lasting shared attraction for one another. Sex is among the ways couples can be vulnerable and comfortable with one another.

Sold Out To The Gospel?

The word 'Gospel' comes from a Greek word euangelion, which literally means “good news.” What does it mean to be really sold out to the gospel? To be willing to give your life for the gospel. (2 Tim. 4:6-8).

Word For Today - Three Things A Leader Shouldn’t Do!

President Eisenhower once said, ‘Pull the string, and it will follow you wherever you wish. Push it, and it will go nowhere.’ As a leader, here are three things you shouldn’t do:

Word For Today - It’s Time To End The Standoff!

God created us to enjoy unbroken fellowship with Him and each other. That’s why Satan’s first ploy was to separate us from God – and from each other. Using things like pride, stubbornness, confusion, resentment, and selfishness, he drives wedges and polarises relationships. What starts out as a misunderstanding often ends in angry stand-offs or toxic silences that last for hours, days, and sometimes years.

Word For Today - The Resurrection Calls For A Decision!

‘Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time…Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. Last of all…I also saw him’ (1 Corinthians 15:3-8 NLT).

Word For Today - Learning To Confront!

We don’t enjoy confrontation, but it’s impossible to grow without it. Healthy confrontation calls for ‘speaking the truth in love’ (Ephesians 4:15 NIV) to those we value. Healthy confrontation calls for putting the other person’s well-being above your own interests. So how do you confront someone in the right way? By doing these three things:

Word For Today - Make Criticism Work For You!

There are two kinds of criticism:

1) Unfair criticism. There’ll always be people who love to rain on your parade; people who try to build themselves up by tearing others down. Mark Twain said, ‘Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.’

God's Plan of Salvation!

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. The one who has the Son has this eternal life; the one who does not have the Son of God does not have this eternal life. – (1 John 5:11-12).

Focus On What Is Good - Word For Today

Let’s face it, we don’t have to look very far to find things to complain about. God placed Adam and Eve in the garden of Paradise where they had everything they needed to be happy. But what did they focus on? The one tree they couldn’t have!

Part I: The Role of Politics in the Church!

Our church is experiencing a great deal of polarization, and even heated debate, over matters of politics. What does the Bible say to the church, and to the individual Christian, about the role of politics in the church?

Word For Today - Fishing Lessons!

God is interested in your success. Peter knew Jesus was a great teacher and that He could even heal the sick. What he was about to learn, however, was that Jesus wants you to succeed in your career. Peter probably had the best nets, owned a good boat, and knew exactly where to catch the most fish. And his income depended on a good catch. 

Why Bad News Dominates The Headlines!

                                 
Why are newspapers and TV broadcasts filled with disaster, corruption and incompetence? It may be because we’re drawn to depressing stories without realising, says psychologist Tom Stafford.

When you read the news, sometimes it can feel like the only things reported are terrible, depressing events. Why does the media concentrate on the bad things in life, rather than the good? And what might this depressing slant say about us, the audience?

How To Recognize False Teachers!

“Watch out for false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are voracious wolves. You will recognize them by their fruit. Grapes are not gathered from thorns or figs from thistles, are they? In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree is not able to bear bad fruit, nor a bad tree to bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will recognize them by their fruit.
Matthew 7:15-20 (NET)

UK Clocks Go Forward Today!

The time has nearly come for us to turn our clocks forward – if you are working this weekend or going to Church, make sure you don’t get caught out by the change. This means at 1am on Sunday, the time will automatically change to 2am.
Once it is complete, we will be back in British Summer Time – and the days are already lighter, now that it’s officially spring.
Thanks to a man called William Willett, who suggested daylight savings time to avoid time being wasted in the mornings, we now fiddle with our clocks every March and October.

Grace Church Manchester - Online Service

Grace Church is a diverse and growing church that serves urban South Manchester. We love the city and the people in it. Most of all we love Jesus and the message He taught. We’re not able to meet in person but we are still meeting online!

Join us for our live streamed services every Sunday at 10:30am (GMT)

VIEW LIVE STREAM

If you can't see the live stream, go to our YouTube Channel

For more information please visit Grace Church Manchester

2020/2021 PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme In UK

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), the Federal Government agency with the mandate of developing indigenous human capacity and petroleum technology to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry, invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for Overseas MSc and PhD Scholarships to institutions under its UK strategic partnership initiative. Successful candidates will be awarded scholarships to study in UK commencing in the 2020/2021 academic session.

The Gifts of Christmas

Christmas is hard work and expensive! We celebrate Christmas because it is tradition and part of our culture. God doesn’t command it, nor do we earn brownie points for doing so. Is it really worth the trouble?

Pull Down That Stronghold! - Word For Today

‘The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.’ 2 Corinthians 10:4 NKJV

Step Back And See The Bigger Picture! - Word For Today

‘A great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.’ 1 Corinthians 16:9 NKJV

‘Do Right…Love Mercy…Walk Humbly’ - Word For Today

‘What does the LORD require of you? To act justly…love mercy and…walk humbly with your God.’ Micah 6:8 NIV

You’ll Be Rewarded! - Word For Today

‘Your labour is not in vain.’ 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

It’s easy to forget that this world isn’t your home, that you’re going to spend eternity with Christ in a home specially prepared for you, and when you get to heaven you’ll be rewarded for how well you fulfilled your God-given assignment here on earth. The Bible not only teaches this, it spells out the specifics. Here are three you need to keep in mind.

God’s Remedy For Depression! - Word For Today

‘Why, my soul, are you downcast?’ Psalm 43:5 NIVUK

When The Family Shatters! - Word For Today

‘Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you.’ Colossians 3:13 MSG
When divorce shatters your family, how can you help your children? First, stop talking about who doesn’t accept them, and surround them with people who do. As a parent your love can go a long way towards compensating for another’s neglect. Explain that sometimes people grow together, other times they grow apart.

How To Prepare A Good Sermon!

The answer to this questions should begin, in my opinion, with one’s philosophy of what constitutes good Bible exposition. Many believe in very shallow exposition where they simply seek to preach the big idea and embellish it with a lot of stories, illustration, humor, and devote a great deal of time to application. An occasional story or illustration and natural humor are fine, as long as this is kept to a minimum. We want our hearers to apply the truth to their lives, but many times when application is the emphasis it borders on heresy and manipulation.