Grace Church Broken Arrow OK Alumni: Understanding Moral Character and Helping Others
This article explores the importance of moral character and how individuals can navigate life's challenges with faith and guidance. Drawing upon the insights of alumni and figures associated with Grace Church and related ministries, it offers perspectives on various topics, including character development, sexuality, marriage, and personal growth.
The Significance of Moral Character
Dave Beebe, a former instructor at RBTC and National Director of RAA/RMAI, emphasizes that character, not charisma, is the defining trait of a faithful and productive Christian. He points out that the apostle Paul spoke more about character than charisma. Many Christians mistakenly believe that their gifts or calling are sufficient for God's purpose. Beebe cautions that ministers who are called and anointed but lack strong character are ill-prepared for the temptations they will inevitably face. He argues that individuals with strong moral character should be able to resist temptations such as adultery or other sins.
Check Up On Yourself: Reflect on the principles of moral character discussed above and consider how they apply to your own life.
Navigating Sexuality and Identity
Chuck McConkey, Director of Biblical Counseling at Grace Church in Tulsa, offers guidance on understanding sexuality from a faith-based perspective. He addresses the challenges faced by individuals struggling with unwanted feelings, emphasizing that choices, not inherent sexuality, often lead to certain lifestyles. McConkey refers to Proverbs 23:7, which states, "As [a man] thinks in his heart, so is he," as a key to understanding these struggles. He suggests that feelings of difference in childhood can contribute to these challenges.
McConkey asserts that homosexuality is a sin and that God has provided a path to deal with sin. He encourages individuals to find their identity in Christ rather than in their behaviors, desires, or feelings. This involves aligning oneself with God's definition of who we are. McConkey recommends resources such as Robert S. McGee's Search for Significance and John Eldredge's Wild at Heart to aid in this process.
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Brian Bohrer, pastor of Living Bread Church, emphasizes the importance of renewing one's mind through scripture. He suggests that meditating on scriptures that reveal our identity in Christ can transform our desires. Bohrer highlights the different wiring of men and women and the need for honesty and careful monitoring of what we allow into our minds through our eyes and ears. He cautions against twisted thinking and encourages mastering one's thoughts by taking them captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Check Up On Yourself: Consider whether you are being honest with yourself by daily renewing your mind, being careful about what you see and hear, and mastering your thoughts. Take proactive steps, such as moving your computer to a public place or using a monitoring system, if needed.
God's Design for Marriage
Joe Cameneti, author of God's Opinion on Today's Hottest Sex Topics, addresses the challenges faced by married couples. He acknowledges that while sex outside of marriage may seem appealing, the pleasure is fleeting and can lead to regret. Cameneti notes that many couples find themselves in mediocre relationships, which can lead to the temptation of seeking fulfillment elsewhere. He emphasizes that adultery is never an option within a God-centered marriage.
For wives, Cameneti clarifies that submission, as described in Ephesians 5:22-24, does not mean blind obedience or domination by husbands. Instead, it is a response to husbands who are themselves submitted to God and prioritize their wives. Wives should also avoid trying to control their husbands.
For husbands, Cameneti stresses the importance of loving their wives as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25). This love should be unconditional and demonstrated daily.
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Check Up On Yourself: Reflect on your focus within your marriage and whether you are prioritizing God's principles for a successful relationship.
Expanding Ministry and Global Impact
Erich Engler, Senior Pastor of Grace Family Church in Bubikon, Zurich, Switzerland, has expanded his ministry through the Internet. His online ministry reaches a global audience, with his messages downloaded tens of thousands of times each month. Engler emphasizes the importance of both the written Word and being led by the Spirit, focusing on areas such as love, faith, healing, grace, and prosperity. His goal is to see people saved, healed, and empowered to live victorious lives.
Dr. David Graves, an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene, has dedicated his life to ministry. He served as director of Sunday School ministries for the Church of the Nazarene and has received numerous accolades for his contributions.
Dr. Suzanne Bell, a professor of industrial and organizational psychology at DePaul University, exemplifies professional success. She has collaborated with top Russian space scientists and received a $1 million grant from NASA for research on team composition for long-distance space exploration. Bell credits Olivet for preparing her for graduate school and life.
Community Outreach and Support
The Grace Church community and its alumni are actively involved in a wide range of outreach and support initiatives. These include organizations focused on:
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- Community development
- Youth mentorship
- Disaster relief
- Homelessness prevention
- Healthcare
- Education
- Family support
- International missions
- Addiction recovery
This extensive network of organizations demonstrates a commitment to serving diverse needs and making a positive impact on communities both locally and globally.
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