Wow it's been quite a while since my last post. I must confess that I was getting a bit discouraged in the way things were going in my life and the ministry in which the Lord has called me to and I got a bit lazy on the Lord. Things just didn't seem to be progressing the way "I" thought they should be. I started questioning whether or not I was even in the Lords will by stepping out into ministry. My body has been riddled with aches and pains, above and beyond that of the normal aging process causing me to have to remove myself from the Jail ministry that I love so much. I was no longer able to make the climb up the many flights of stairs required to get to the inmates. From that point everything seems to have went down hill. One thing after another getting in the way of me doing the work of my Father. I now recognize this as an attack from the enemy (why it took me so long I don't know) and bind it up in the name of Jesus.
While at church today our Pastor brought a message from Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."
"Call unto Me", although I'll pray for someones problems at the drop of a hat I neglect to do the same for myself. Not purposefully mind you. I live a life that I pray is pleasing to my Lord and Savior, I study and bring forth messages reminding others to trust in the Lord, to call upon Him at all times. Reassuring them that the Lord cares for them and has not forgotten them no matter what the circumstances. All the while I allow satan to put a bit of doubt in my mind about how the Lord cares for me too. Its not a matter of practicing what I preach as it is receiving the messages for myself that God has given me. Applying them to my life. The Lord has given me a strong sermon on The Full Armor of God. I have an understanding of it's power and importance in our everyday walk with Christ, but ignorantly, some days I fail to apply it and off I go into the battlefield without the proper protection.
Today, having done all to stand, I stand! I take my stand against the attack of the enemy in Jesus name. I raise my standard to that which the Lord requires of me. "He" is my refuge, my fortress. In him I trust.
by: Tony Bowman
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Women of the church
I’m about to embark on a subject that is controversial for men and women alike, so I would ask you to pray before reading this and to approach it with an open mind.
Let me start by saying “I love Women.” If it weren’t for the women in my life I may have never turned my life over to Jesus. They were the greatest influence in my decision to follow Him. Through their diligent prayers and their living example I was able to see the love of Jesus through them. I feel that a lot of us men would have to admit we would have never gone to church if not for the women in our lives! Much like it was in scripture. In all the gospel accounts women were the first to go to the tomb and see that Jesus was no longer in there! Where were the men? My guess is the men were all back in the city in a meeting scratching their heads, among other things, trying to figure out what to do now. They all had to hear the news from the two Marys. And they still had to run to the tomb to see it for themselves.
Before I had totally submitted myself to the Lord I had my own beliefs in how things were suppose to be and was pretty set in my ways, (imagine that) so being shown something different was hard for me. Like most men I was (and use the word “was” very loosely) hardheaded.
Before ever actually reading and studying Gods word for myself, I heard “MEN” quote scriptures like, 1 Timothy 2:11-14 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. In hearing these things, as a man I was “Puffed Up” as the Apostle Paul would say. Needless to say I had let things like this influence my opinion. I just did not agree with women preaching or teaching.
We read in scripture that the people called Jesus “Teacher” believe me when I say He still is, and a patient one at that. After surrendering to the Lord I found myself visiting a church unlike any church that I had ever been in. There were two Pastors, a man and his wife. I found it very hard to refer to her as pastor so I just called her by her first name. This church was moving and flowing in the gifts and as I had just recently received the baptism of the spirit, it was refreshing to be in a church that welcomed the move.
Although things were good they were just not right. I feel God was teaching me discernment. Over the next few weeks of visiting this church it was evident that it was out of Gods order for the church.
1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
This is where I may start to offend some but I share only what I have learned. There is a reason that God created man first and then the woman. This should not be degrading to the women out there because it is Gods way. His way is not always easy to follow nor understand but rest assured, ITS ALWAYS RIGHT!
By this woman having authority over her husband and in turn, over the church, it was not operating in Gods order and is set to fail unless set straight in Gods order. Some would use the scripture, Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. This is truly how Christ sees us, in the supernatural but we “live” in the natural.
We soon moved to another church that was very similar to the one I’ve just mentioned in that it is operating in the gifts of the spirit, the contemporary praise and worship and the freedom. It is also operating under the authority of a pastor and his wife, as should be.
1 Timothy 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
Bishop- From the Greek word Episkopos meaning: Christian officer in charge of a (or the) church. Superintendant, overseer.
Also notice it says “HUSBAND”. No need for definition!
Pastors David and Debra Coleman are the “Pastors” of Harvest Worship Center, the church of which I am a member. Now wait a minute, did I just contradict myself and the scripture? No I did not. This is what the Lord had to teach me by humbling me down. When I submit myself to his authority (Pastor David) likewise I submit to hers (Pastor Debra). She operates under her husbands’ authority, under his covering of the church. When a man and woman are joined in holy matrimony, they become one. She is a minister, a teacher, a leader and spiritual mother to the congregation. We also have many women teachers (my wife being one of them) that are very anointed and gifted teachers as well.
We can find many women throughout the scriptures that were mighty women of God. They were used by God to preach, teach and evangelize.
Romans 16:1-4 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. Give my greetings to Priscilla and, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches.
This is one of the many examples and I use it because it actually shows Phoebe as being a deacon, which blows some denominational beliefs out of the water and I just love doing that. There is nothing that separates the body of Christ the way denomination does but that’s another study.
Whenever we study Gods word we have to remember when it was written. I know Hebrews 13:8 says Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever, and that is so true, but times are forever changing. If we look at 1 Corinthians 11:16 the Apostle Paul says: But if anyone wants to argue about this, I simply say that we have no other custom than this, and neither do God’s other churches. And 1 Corinthians 7:6 I say this as a concession, not as a command. Concession meaning; Fellow knowledge, permission.
This clearly shows that some of the things Paul wrote were not commandments from God but written out of necessity of the day. We also have to look at the fact that the letters to the Corinthians were answers to letters that were written to Paul concerning problems that had arisen in the church since his departure.
1 Corinthians 1:11 For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters.
Paul was being the spiritual father of these churches by addressing their problems. Think about it as in today’s times. Would the pastor of your church sit back and let wrong go on inside the church? I certainly hope not. If our pastors are not spiritual fathers then they too are out of Gods order and their church is soon to follow.
1 Corinthians 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
There are many women out there today that have very successful ministries, Joyce Myers, Beth Moore and Sheila Isom only to name a few, and their ministries will continue to flourish as long as they stay in Gods order. The same can be said for the men as well. It is our ultimate goal to be at one with Christ and whatever we can do to make that happen should be our main focus.
Ephesians 5:16-33 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the Saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
After my studies and the revelation that the Lord has given me it is my belief that a woman should not be the sole pastor of a church. I feel that every church should be under the authority of a husband and wife. I know that my belief in this matter is not popular with some, however I believe it to be true and proven through the scriptures. Most of us will agree that God set the man to be the head of the household, head of our homes and families. Why would He do any different in His house.
Remember, the colored texts are not my words. These are the written words inspired by God Himself. It is our choice to follow them or to rebel against them.
by Tony Bowman
Let me start by saying “I love Women.” If it weren’t for the women in my life I may have never turned my life over to Jesus. They were the greatest influence in my decision to follow Him. Through their diligent prayers and their living example I was able to see the love of Jesus through them. I feel that a lot of us men would have to admit we would have never gone to church if not for the women in our lives! Much like it was in scripture. In all the gospel accounts women were the first to go to the tomb and see that Jesus was no longer in there! Where were the men? My guess is the men were all back in the city in a meeting scratching their heads, among other things, trying to figure out what to do now. They all had to hear the news from the two Marys. And they still had to run to the tomb to see it for themselves.
Before I had totally submitted myself to the Lord I had my own beliefs in how things were suppose to be and was pretty set in my ways, (imagine that) so being shown something different was hard for me. Like most men I was (and use the word “was” very loosely) hardheaded.
Before ever actually reading and studying Gods word for myself, I heard “MEN” quote scriptures like, 1 Timothy 2:11-14 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. In hearing these things, as a man I was “Puffed Up” as the Apostle Paul would say. Needless to say I had let things like this influence my opinion. I just did not agree with women preaching or teaching.
We read in scripture that the people called Jesus “Teacher” believe me when I say He still is, and a patient one at that. After surrendering to the Lord I found myself visiting a church unlike any church that I had ever been in. There were two Pastors, a man and his wife. I found it very hard to refer to her as pastor so I just called her by her first name. This church was moving and flowing in the gifts and as I had just recently received the baptism of the spirit, it was refreshing to be in a church that welcomed the move.
Although things were good they were just not right. I feel God was teaching me discernment. Over the next few weeks of visiting this church it was evident that it was out of Gods order for the church.
1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
This is where I may start to offend some but I share only what I have learned. There is a reason that God created man first and then the woman. This should not be degrading to the women out there because it is Gods way. His way is not always easy to follow nor understand but rest assured, ITS ALWAYS RIGHT!
By this woman having authority over her husband and in turn, over the church, it was not operating in Gods order and is set to fail unless set straight in Gods order. Some would use the scripture, Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. This is truly how Christ sees us, in the supernatural but we “live” in the natural.
We soon moved to another church that was very similar to the one I’ve just mentioned in that it is operating in the gifts of the spirit, the contemporary praise and worship and the freedom. It is also operating under the authority of a pastor and his wife, as should be.
1 Timothy 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
Bishop- From the Greek word Episkopos meaning: Christian officer in charge of a (or the) church. Superintendant, overseer.
Also notice it says “HUSBAND”. No need for definition!
Pastors David and Debra Coleman are the “Pastors” of Harvest Worship Center, the church of which I am a member. Now wait a minute, did I just contradict myself and the scripture? No I did not. This is what the Lord had to teach me by humbling me down. When I submit myself to his authority (Pastor David) likewise I submit to hers (Pastor Debra). She operates under her husbands’ authority, under his covering of the church. When a man and woman are joined in holy matrimony, they become one. She is a minister, a teacher, a leader and spiritual mother to the congregation. We also have many women teachers (my wife being one of them) that are very anointed and gifted teachers as well.
We can find many women throughout the scriptures that were mighty women of God. They were used by God to preach, teach and evangelize.
Romans 16:1-4 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. Give my greetings to Priscilla and, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches.
This is one of the many examples and I use it because it actually shows Phoebe as being a deacon, which blows some denominational beliefs out of the water and I just love doing that. There is nothing that separates the body of Christ the way denomination does but that’s another study.
Whenever we study Gods word we have to remember when it was written. I know Hebrews 13:8 says Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever, and that is so true, but times are forever changing. If we look at 1 Corinthians 11:16 the Apostle Paul says: But if anyone wants to argue about this, I simply say that we have no other custom than this, and neither do God’s other churches. And 1 Corinthians 7:6 I say this as a concession, not as a command. Concession meaning; Fellow knowledge, permission.
This clearly shows that some of the things Paul wrote were not commandments from God but written out of necessity of the day. We also have to look at the fact that the letters to the Corinthians were answers to letters that were written to Paul concerning problems that had arisen in the church since his departure.
1 Corinthians 1:11 For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters.
Paul was being the spiritual father of these churches by addressing their problems. Think about it as in today’s times. Would the pastor of your church sit back and let wrong go on inside the church? I certainly hope not. If our pastors are not spiritual fathers then they too are out of Gods order and their church is soon to follow.
1 Corinthians 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
There are many women out there today that have very successful ministries, Joyce Myers, Beth Moore and Sheila Isom only to name a few, and their ministries will continue to flourish as long as they stay in Gods order. The same can be said for the men as well. It is our ultimate goal to be at one with Christ and whatever we can do to make that happen should be our main focus.
Ephesians 5:16-33 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the Saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
After my studies and the revelation that the Lord has given me it is my belief that a woman should not be the sole pastor of a church. I feel that every church should be under the authority of a husband and wife. I know that my belief in this matter is not popular with some, however I believe it to be true and proven through the scriptures. Most of us will agree that God set the man to be the head of the household, head of our homes and families. Why would He do any different in His house.
Remember, the colored texts are not my words. These are the written words inspired by God Himself. It is our choice to follow them or to rebel against them.
by Tony Bowman
Sunday, April 12, 2009
EASTER
Happy Easter to all. This is the third day after they crucified my Lord and Savior, a most important day because when Marry looked into the open tomb, He was there no more! An angel said to her that He had risen. This day, among all the other days is the day that separates and brings truth to the fact that Jesus Christ is the Messiah! He is the one that has risen to sit at the right hand of the father. Praise be to God in all His glory.
Thank You Father God for sending Your Son. May we honor You this day in all we do and say.
Thank You Father God for sending Your Son. May we honor You this day in all we do and say.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Defining Moments
We have many opportunities to show the world and most importantly the Lord, that we believe what we say we believe. These opportunities come daily in our every word and deed. Believe me when I say, If you are a child of God, If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, then you are being watched by many to see if what you say is what you live!
1st: The Lord Himself is watching. (although He knows your heart)
2nd: Fellow Christians are watching. Scripture says you will be known by your fruit!
3rd: The lost are watching. Expecting and wanting to see something different than what they already have.
And lastly there is one that is watching, 1 Peter 5:8 says;
Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.
When things come our way, as they always do, it is how we react to them that is our defining moment. Weather it be troubles and trials, or even blessings and opportunities. What we do reflects what we BELIEVE.
Take Peter for instance. Here he is, someone that made the decision to follow Jesus, much like you and I, and he sees Jesus walking on the water toward him. Peter calls out, "If that is you Lord call me to you on the water" Jesus simply says "Then come".
Now here is Peters defining moment, The Lord has called him out of the boat, that all the other disciples were in I might add, and he goes believing that he too can walk on the water, and because the Lord had called to him, he did!
Peter reacted in such a way as we all should, immediately and boldly! BUT just as he got out there he started doubting. Peter had 2 defining moments within seconds of each other. By getting out of the boat he lived what he professed to believe, but at the first sight of trouble he fell.
We all, as Christians should act immediately to the Lords call and I'm sure that the Lord will honor our efforts, but lets see the whole thing through. Lets purpose in our hearts to run the race, to fight the good fight of faith and to shine in our "Defining Moment"!
1st: The Lord Himself is watching. (although He knows your heart)
2nd: Fellow Christians are watching. Scripture says you will be known by your fruit!
3rd: The lost are watching. Expecting and wanting to see something different than what they already have.
And lastly there is one that is watching, 1 Peter 5:8 says;
Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.
When things come our way, as they always do, it is how we react to them that is our defining moment. Weather it be troubles and trials, or even blessings and opportunities. What we do reflects what we BELIEVE.
Take Peter for instance. Here he is, someone that made the decision to follow Jesus, much like you and I, and he sees Jesus walking on the water toward him. Peter calls out, "If that is you Lord call me to you on the water" Jesus simply says "Then come".
Now here is Peters defining moment, The Lord has called him out of the boat, that all the other disciples were in I might add, and he goes believing that he too can walk on the water, and because the Lord had called to him, he did!
Peter reacted in such a way as we all should, immediately and boldly! BUT just as he got out there he started doubting. Peter had 2 defining moments within seconds of each other. By getting out of the boat he lived what he professed to believe, but at the first sight of trouble he fell.
We all, as Christians should act immediately to the Lords call and I'm sure that the Lord will honor our efforts, but lets see the whole thing through. Lets purpose in our hearts to run the race, to fight the good fight of faith and to shine in our "Defining Moment"!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
New Year
My Pastor was preaching a sermon for new years and he said something that is so obvious but yet slapped me right upside the head, “The Lord has given us something NEW and UNTOUCHED, Something that has never been used!” He was speaking of the New Year, 2009, it has never been, nor will it ever be again. As the days and weeks roll on by it looses its newness, until we are looking at it like it’s almost over, and where did it go?
Sometimes I wonder why the Lord doesn’t just come on back now and get this all over with. The world around us is going to hell in a basket. Why not stop it before it is allowed to go further? Then I have to think back just a few short years ago, people were more than likely asking the same question. If He had come back then, I would be lost forever in hell! So, I thank Him that only He knows the hour and the day of His return and that He doesn’t come back one minute too early.
Now I find myself asking, “What am I going to do with this New Year the Lord has seen fit to give to us all?”
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas
Who is the jolly ole soul behind the beard? I'll give you all 3 guesses and the first two don't count! I have always enjoyed playing the role of Santa. My first opportunity was in 1991, only a month after my release from prison. A friend had two nieces that he wanted me to deliver their presents to them in a Santa suit, a very modest Santa suit to say the least. A pullover shirt and cotton balls everywhere! But the girls still got excited about the siting of Santa.I then came across a Santa suit in the year 2000 that I wore for my middle child, Sky's birthday party. It was a bit better than the first suit, it even had a real beard this time, and again the kids were all excited.
This year my wife and my mom went in together and bought me this suit for Christmas. It is the Old World Santa. As you can clearly see it is a professional quality suit and I have had the privilege to be Santa at 3 church events. Much excitement from adults and kids alike.
I wasn't sure about someone called to the ministry, someone dedicated to spreading the "TRUTH", portraying Santa Clause. I had to pray and seek the Lord about this. I even sought council from my Pastor as I am very serious about protecting the call on my life. What I heard was "do all things for the glory of God." So I then had a peace about it.
You have always heard the saying "get into the Christmas spirit". Well, what is the Christmas spirit if not the spirit of joy. If we all turn our attention to the birth of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, the beginning of our faith and salvation we would have no problem finding that very spirit of "JOY". We would be able to face this stressful time of family and travel with a smile on our faces. Through this time of economic down fall we would be able to say with conviction and confidence that He is our provider and will meet our every need.
So my family and I say "MERRY CHRISTMAS" to all and to all a good night!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Taking the next step!!
We are now preparing to take the next step in our ministry. We launched the ministry last year in the fund raising efforts for Heavens missions trip to South Africa. I feel the Lord is now asking us to use the ministry for the purpose in which He has called me to, and that is to witness and share what He has done in my life.
I started drug and alcohol use at the very young age of 11. I went through many years trying all the different varieties of drugs only to settle for the syringe. I had slowly become a junkie. There were two places I was headed living that lifestyle, Prison and hell. Through the grace of God, prison was the only hell I had to face.
Since my release from prison in 1991, I have been married 15 years, fathered 3 daughters, was delivered from drug and nicotine addiction, gave my life to Christ and was called to preach the gospel.
I have been studying and waiting for direction from the Lord and believe He is calling me out of my comfort zone to minister through scripture and testimony. I am searching for every open door and opportunity to share what God has called me to. I feel this word is timely and for everyone, young and old, men and women, saved and lost!
Through the direction and covering of my pastors at Harvest Worship Center, I am confident and anxious to go where the Lord may lead and I am asking you to pray for me that the Lord guide my every step and that I not get myself in front of the Lords will.
If you feel my testimony is something you or your church is in need of I ask that you pray first and seek the Lords will, then use the contact information provided. Thank you so much and may God bless you in all you do!
KOTKEM
P.O. BOX 504
Patrick Springs Va. 24133
E-Mail kotkem@yahoo.com
P.O. BOX 504
Patrick Springs Va. 24133
E-Mail kotkem@yahoo.com
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