Nazarene journal

Have you ever wondered if ministry is for “special” people only? Is it something only a few can do… or does God call us all? The Bible doesn’t leave us in the dark on this. It tells us plainly: You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood a holy nation, God’s special possession… 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV) And again: To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV) Scripture makes it clear: every believer has a part to play in God’s mission. Whether you’re preaching from a pulpit or serving behind the scenes you’ve been called to minister. Yet, there is also a distinct calling a unique assignment that God gives to some: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers…”— Ephesians 4:11 (NIV) This is where the Church of the Nazarene brings both clarity and conviction: The Church of the Nazarene recognizes all believers are called to minister to all people. We also affirm Christ calls some men and women to a specific and public ministry even as He chose and ordained His 12 apostles. When the church, illuminated by the Holy Spirit recognizes such a divine call the church endorses and assists the individual’s entry into a lifetime of ministry.”— Manual ¶500 So is everyone called? Yes.Are some called in a specific way for public leadership? Also yes.God equips the whole body to serve — and He calls some to lead that body forward with authority humility and lifelong devotion.

Can someone declare themselves a minister? What if you feel called, but no one else sees it? Who confirms that calling — and how? Paul wrote: And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?— Romans 10:15 (NIV) And again we see that Paul and Barnabas were set apart by the Spirit — but confirmed by the Church: While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.— Acts 13:2–3 (NIV) There’s the balance: God calls… the Church confirms. The Church of the Nazarene honors this pattern with deep reverence: When the church, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, recognizes such a divine call, the church endorses and assists the individual’s entry into a lifetime of ministry.— Manual ¶500 This means a genuine call to ministry is not a private matter. It is affirmed by the Spirit and recognized by the community of faith. You can sense the call — but the Church helps confirm it. Together we listen. Together we discern. Together we send.

Have you ever wondered how the Church of the Nazarene became a global movement? Maybe you’ve asked: Which countries first welcomed the message of holiness? Where did Nazarene missionaries first go? How did it all begin? If that’s been on your mind, you’re not alone. And yes — this article might be helpful. Let’s walk through the first ten countries where the Church of the Nazarene established a presence. You may be surprised by some of them! But first… What Do We Mean by “Entered First”? In this article, we’re talking about the first countries where the Church of the Nazarene officially entered with missionaries, established a church, or organized ministries under the name “Church of the Nazarene.” Most of these events happened in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This list is based on available records of missionary activity and church planting recognized by the denomination. Top 10 Countries the Church of the Nazarene Entered First 1. India — 1898 India was the first country outside the U.S. where the Church of the Nazarene began official work. In 1898, missionaries carried the message of holiness and entire sanctification to the Indian subcontinent — long before the denomination was even officially organized in 1908. 2. United States — 1887 (Founding Work) While technically the birthplace of the Church of the Nazarene, the U.S. comes second on our list in terms of missionary reach. The movement began in Los Angeles in 1895 (and earlier holiness movements in 1887), forming the foundation for what would become a global church. 3. Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) — 1901 Cape Verde was the first African country where the Church of the Nazarene entered. This early mission field opened up opportunities for growth across the African continent. Today, Cabo Verde remains one of the strongest Nazarene regions in Africa. 4. Canada — 1902 The Church of the Nazarene entered Canada shortly after forming in the U.S. This marked its first expansion into another North American country and established strong congregations that continue to grow today. 5. Cuba — 1902 Just one year later, the Church moved into Cuba, making it one of the earliest nations in the Caribbean to receive the holiness message. Cuba became a hub for regional outreach. 6. Mexico — 1903 The mission in Mexico marked the church’s early entry into Latin America. Mexico remains one of the strongest and most vibrant Nazarene regions in the world today. 7. Japan — 1905 Japan was the first Asian country to receive Nazarene missionaries after India. Entering in 1905, the Church established a foothold that later expanded to other parts of East Asia. 8. Argentina — 1909 Argentina was among the first South American nations to receive the Church of the Nazarene. The mission quickly grew into a thriving district that continues to influence the region. 9. United Kingdom — 1909 The UK marked the church’s entry into Europe. Early Nazarene missionaries found support in the British Isles and helped establish congregations that still operate today. 10. South Africa — 1919 Although it came slightly later than some others, South Africa became an anchor for African missions, offering strategic support for expanding ministries throughout southern Africa. What Does This Tell Us? The Church of the Nazarene didn’t stay in one place for long. From its earliest days, it has been a global church with a global mission. Our message of holiness, entire sanctification, and compassionate ministry quickly crossed borders — not just as an American export, but as a call to Christlikeness that could take root in any culture. At Nazarene Journal, we focus on highlighting this rich history and the beliefs that make us who we are. Which country surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments — or explore more about Nazarene missions on this site.

Have you ever come across this question? Have you been asking it yourself? Maybe you’re a layperson who feels called to do more. Maybe you’ve been serving faithfully in your church but now sense God nudging you toward something beyond your local congregation. What do you think—can a lay minister actually serve outside their home church? If you’ve wondered about this, you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place. This article might be helpful. But First… What Is a Lay Person? Before we go too far, let’s define who a lay person actually is—both in everyday language and according to the Church of the Nazarene. 📖 The Dictionary says: A lay person is “a non-ordained member of a church.” In other words, they’re not a pastor or clergy—but they’re still very much part of the church. 📘 The Church of the Nazarene Manual says: “A lay minister is a member of the Church of the Nazarene who desires to serve the church but does not hold credentials as a district licensed or ordained minister.” — Manual, Paragraph 503 So a lay minister is a non-ordained believer who serves in ministry with the church’s recognition and blessing—but not as a pastor. Now that we know who a lay minister is, let’s go back to the main question. Can a Lay Minister Serve Outside Their Local Church? The short answer is: Yes, but under guidance. Let’s look at what the Church of the Nazarene Manual says: “A lay minister may be assigned by the district superintendent, with the approval of the District Advisory Board, to a ministry beyond the local church. The lay minister shall report annually to the district assembly through the District Ministerial Studies Board and the district superintendent.” — Manual, Paragraph 503.7 This paragraph gives us some very important truths. ✅ What This Means: A Breakdown 1. Yes — Lay Ministers Can Serve Beyond Their Local Church This includes ministries in: Other congregations District events or projects Community outreach Specialized ministries (youth, teaching, music, etc.) So if you’re a layperson with a calling that reaches beyond your local church—you’re not disqualified. In fact, the Church makes room for that. 2. District Leadership Is Involved A lay minister doesn’t simply decide to serve wherever they wish. They must be assigned by the district superintendent—and that assignment must be approved by the District Advisory Board. Why? Because ministry is never done in isolation. It’s always within the context of accountability, unity, and spiritual oversight. 3. They Remain Under Supervision Even when they serve outside their local church, lay ministers remain accountable to: The District Superintendent The District Advisory Board The District Ministerial Studies Board This supervision is important to protect both the minister and the people they serve. 4. They Must Report Annually to the District Each year, lay ministers are required to report their activities and progress to the district. This ensures their ministry stays: Spiritually healthy Doctrinally sound Fruitful and aligned with the mission of the Church This is a form of spiritual stewardship. 5. When Their Assignment Ends, They Return to Their Local Church When the district no longer needs their service elsewhere, or if the assignment comes to an end, the lay minister returns to their home church. That’s where their renewal, ministry life, and further reporting continue. 🔎 Why Does This Matter? Because some people feel called to serve in bigger ways, but don’t see a clear path if they’re not ordained. This section of the Manual reminds us: You don’t need a title to be used by God. You don’t need to leave your church to make a difference. You do need spiritual oversight and accountability. 🟡 Final Thoughts The Church of the Nazarene takes lay ministry seriously. It provides room for spiritual calling —even beyond your local congregation— but it also provides structure and support. So if you’re sensing that call… You’re not strange. You’re not alone. You might just be in the right place. At Nazarene Journal, we’re here to help you understand the calling, the structure and the beliefs of the Church of the Nazarene — because sometimes, you’re already part of something you just haven’t fully discovered yet.

Have you ever wondered where pastors, missionaries, and Christian leaders from the Church of the Nazarene are trained? Or maybe you’ve asked yourself: Where can I study from a Nazarene perspective? Is there a university connected to the Church of the Nazarene in my region? How far does Nazarene higher education really reach? You’re in the right place. This article might be the answer you’ve been searching for. Let’s Begin with the Mission The Church of the Nazarene takes Christian education seriously. In fact, it’s part of our global mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations — not just in churches, but in classrooms, lecture halls, and libraries. That’s why we have a system of Nazarene colleges, universities, and seminaries across six continents, serving more than 43,000 students each year. These institutions are empowered and supported by the International Board of Education (IBOE) — the Nazarene church’s global education network. So, What Is the IBOE? The International Board of Education exists to: Advocate for Nazarene educational institutions Support their spiritual and academic integrity Ensure they stay aligned with the church’s mission and theology These aren’t just schools. They are centers for spiritual formation and leadership development. They train pastors, teachers, medical professionals, and other servant-leaders — all with a Nazarene worldview and a kingdom purpose. What Makes Nazarene Education Unique? From a Nazarene viewpoint, education isn’t just about degrees. It’s about discipleship. It’s about holiness in life and learning. It’s about preparing people to serve in churches, communities, and nations — wherever God calls them. Where Are These Schools? Here’s a glimpse at the 50 Nazarene-affiliated colleges, universities, and seminaries spread across the globe: Ambrose University (Canada) Eastern Nazarene College (USA) MidAmerica Nazarene University (USA) Mount Vernon Nazarene University (USA) Nazarene Bible College (Online, USA) Nazarene Theological Seminary (USA) Northwest Nazarene University (USA) Olivet Nazarene University (USA) Point Loma Nazarene University (USA) Southern Nazarene University (USA) Trevecca Nazarene University (USA) Africa Nazarene University (Kenya) Nazarene Bible College of East Africa (Kenya) Nazarene Theological College (South Africa) Nazarene Theological College of Central Africa (Malawi) Nazarene Theological Institute (Senegal) Seminário Nazareno de Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Seminário Nazareno em Moçambique (Mozambique) Southern Africa Nazarene University (Eswatini) Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (Philippines) Central Philippine Nazarene College (Philippines) Chapman International College (Thailand) Indonesia Nazarene Theological College Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary Korea Nazarene University Melanesia Nazarene Bible College (Papua New Guinea) Melanesia Nazarene Teachers College (Papua New Guinea) Nazarene College of Nursing (Papua New Guinea) Nazarene Theological College (Australia) Philippine Nazarene College South Pacific Nazarene Theological College (Fiji) Taiwan Nazarene Theological College European Nazarene College (multi-site) Nazarene Theological College – Manchester (UK) Nazarene Nurses Training College (India) South Asia Nazarene Bible College (India) Caribbean Nazarene College (Trinidad) Seminario Nazareno Mexicano Instituto Bíblico Nazareno (Guatemala) Séminaire Théologique Nazaréen d’Haiti Seminario Nazareno de las Américas (SENDAS, Costa Rica) Seminario Nazareno Dominicano Seminario Teológico Nazareno (Guatemala) Seminario Teológico Nazareno Cubano (Cuba) Seminario Bíblico Nazareno Chile Seminario Nazareno Boliviano Seminario Teológico Nazareno del Cono Sur (Argentina) Seminario Teológico Nazareno del Perú Seminário Teológico Nazareno do Brasil Seminario Teológico Nazareno Sudamericano (Ecuador) What Does This Mean for You? If you’re thinking about education, ministry, or leadership — and you want that training to be deeply rooted in Wesleyan-Holiness theology and Nazarene doctrine — these institutions are for you. Whether you feel called to pastor, teach, nurse, evangelize, or lead — the Church of the Nazarene has a place to help you grow and serve. 💡 The Nazarene Journal exists to highlight Church of the Nazarene beliefs, institutions, and global mission — helping people like you better understand what makes this church unique. So, Have You Been Asking: Where can I grow deeper in Christ and in calling? Where can I study holiness, theology, and mission? Is there a Nazarene school near me? You’re not alone. You are the Church. And the Church is ready to equip you.

Have you ever wondered how far back the Church of the Nazarene’s global mission goes? Have you been surprised to hear that in some countries, the Church has been ministering for more than a century? If you’ve asked questions like these, you’re in the right place, and this article might be helpful. Wait—let’s start by understanding what kind of church this is. 🌍 What Is the Church of the Nazarene Known For Globally? The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant Christian denomination that’s deeply committed to: Spreading the message of Jesus Christ Making Christlike disciples in the nations Serving communities with compassion and holiness While some people think of it as a local church near home, the truth is—it’s a global family, and in some nations, it has been serving faithfully for over 100 years. Let’s take a quick journey through time and geography to see where the Church of the Nazarene has had a long and lasting presence. 🗺️ Countries Where the Church Has Been Active for Over a Century. 1. India – Since 1898 Did you know that India was one of the first international mission fields of the Church of the Nazarene?Missionaries arrived in 1898, even before the denomination was officially organized. Today, India remains a vital part of the Nazarene world. 2. Cape Verde – Since 1901 An island nation off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde received Nazarene missionaries in 1901. It’s one of the earliest mission fields, and to this day, the Church continues to thrive there with a strong legacy of faith and leadership. 3. Canada – Since 1902 The Church entered Canada in 1902 and has had a consistent and growing presence ever since. Through local churches and compassionate ministries, Canada has played an important role in Nazarene missions. 4. Cuba – Since 1902 Since its beginning in Cuba in 1902, the Church has persevered through challenges, offering hope and faith to generations. It remains an important field with vibrant congregations and committed members. 5. Mexico – Since 1903 Mexico was one of the first Latin American countries reached by the Church of the Nazarene. Since 1903, the Church has expanded across the nation, supporting families and communities through evangelism, education, and service. 6. Guatemala – Since 1904 In 1904, Guatemala welcomed Nazarene missionaries. Over time, it became one of the strongest fields in Central America. Today, there are thousands of members and hundreds of churches across the country. 7. Japan – Since 1905 In 1905, the Church of the Nazarene sent its first missionaries to Japan. Over 100 years later, the Church continues to minister with quiet strength in Japanese communities, honoring both cultural sensitivity and biblical holiness. 8. Argentina – Since 1909 The Church entered Argentina in 1909, making it one of the earliest South American mission fields. From that small beginning, the Church has grown and impacted many through schools, churches, and outreach ministries. 9. Peru – Since 1914 In 1914, Peru joined the Nazarene story. A century later, Peru has a flourishing Church, with hundreds of congregations and an ever-expanding mission to reach every corner of the nation. 10. United States – Since 1887 (Organized in 1908) Although the Church of the Nazarene was officially organized in 1908, its roots in the U.S. trace back to 1887. From revival meetings and holiness preaching, the Church has grown into a global movement with its headquarters still based in the U.S. 💡 Why This Matters Many people don’t realize how global and historic the Church of the Nazarene really is. It’s not a new or passing movement—it’s a century-old expression of the Christian faith that has adapted to serve diverse cultures while staying rooted in the message of holiness, mission, and compassion. At Nazarene Journal, our goal is to help people understand what the Church of the Nazarene believes and how it continues to grow around the world. If you’re just discovering the Church, you may already share many of its values without realizing it. 🔗 Want to Learn More? You can explore a visual history of Nazarene missions here: 📺 Watch on YouTube This summary is adapted from Howard Culbertson’s detailed records of Nazarene missions and is shared under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Is There Still Healing? Pain. Sickness. Weakness. Suffering. We know them well. But the Church is not left without hope. What Do We Believe About Healing? “We believe in the biblical doctrine of divine healing and urge our people to offer the prayer of faith for the healing of the sick.”— Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 14 Healing is not just a wish.It’s a doctrine.It’s in the Bible.It’s in the heart of God.We believe: God heals Healing is biblical Prayer matters James tells us:“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them… The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.”— James 5:14-15 What Should We Do When the Sick Suffer? “…urge our people to offer the prayer of faith for the healing of the sick.”— Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 14 We are not passive.We pray.We believe.We hope.God hears.God heals.From Naaman’s cleansing (2 Kings 5:1–19)to Jesus’ miracles (Matthew 4:23–24)to apostolic power (Acts 5:12–16) —healing flows through Scripture like a river of mercy. What About Doctors? “We also believe God heals through the means of medical science.”— Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 14 We do not reject medicine.We do not fear science.We affirm: God works through prayer. God works through people. God works through knowledge. The healer may wear a robeor a white coat —but God is still the Healer. God Is Not Silent in Our Suffering.Sometimes He speaks by removing the pain.Sometimes by redeeming it.Sometimes by sustaining us through it.Paul knew this: “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’”— 2 Corinthians 12:8–9 God Still Heals.Sometimes instantly.Sometimes gradually.Sometimes eternally.But always lovingly.Always wisely.Always for His glory. Key Scriptures to Reflect On: Psalm 103:1–5 – He heals all your diseases Matthew 9:18–35 – Jesus raises the dead and heals the multitudes Acts 9:32–42 – Peter raises Tabitha; Aeneas is healed James 5:13–16 – Call the elders, pray in faith We pray. We trust. We give thanks whether He heals today or sustains us until tomorrow. Because the Church believes in divine healing and the Healer is Jesus.

Who is Jesus? A good teacher? A moral man? A prophet? A martyr? No.He is more. Infinitely more. The Church of the Nazarene declares, in Article II, Paragraph 2 of our Manual: “We believe in Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Triune Godhead; that He was eternally one with the Father…” Jesus is not created.He is —eternally one with the Father,sharing the same divine essence. “…that He became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary…” He didn’t stop being God —He became God in the flesh.Fully divine.Fully human.Two perfect natures united in one Person: “…very God and very man, the God-man.” He lived the perfect life we could not.He embraced death that we might live. “We believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that He truly arose from the dead…” Not symbolically.Not spiritually.He truly arose — with His body —every part of human nature fully redeemed. “…took again His body, together with all things appertaining to the perfection of man’s nature, wherewith He ascended into heaven…” And He didn’t vanish.He ascended.He’s alive.And He’s active: “…and is there engaged in intercession for us.” Jesus is praying for you —even now. What Does Scripture Say?The Bible reveals this Jesus from prophecy to resurrection: Matthew 1:20–25 – Born of the Virgin, called Immanuel Luke 1:26–35 – The angel announces He is the Son of the Most High John 1:1–18 – “In the beginning was the Word… and the Word became flesh” Acts 2:22–36 – “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ” Romans 8:3, 32–34 – He condemned sin in the flesh and intercedes for us Galatians 4:4–5 – God sent His Son, born of a woman Philippians 2:5–11 – He humbled Himself unto death… God exalted Him Colossians 1:12–22 – All things created by Him… reconciled through His blood 1 Timothy 6:14–16 – The King of kings, immortal and dwelling in unapproachable light Hebrews 1:1–5; 7:22–28; 9:24–28 – The perfect High Priest, interceding eternally 1 John 1:1–3; 4:2–3, 15 – We have seen, heard, and touched the Word of life… He is the Son of God This is the Christ we confess: Eternal, Incarnate, Crucified, Risen, Ascended, Interceding. Jesus Christ — the God-Man.

Have you ever asked: “Are there Nazarene schools in Asia?” “Does the Church of the Nazarene train leaders in the Pacific Islands?” “Do we have universities that prepare teachers, pastors, and nurses in this region?” You’re in the right place — and this article might just surprise you. Yes, the Asia-Pacific Region is home to some of the most vibrant and mission-driven Nazarene educational institutions in the world. But before we list them… 📚 Why Nazarene Education Matters These are not just schools. They are centers of calling, where students are trained not only for careers — but for Kingdom impact. In these classrooms, students… Study theology Learn to preach, teach, counsel, and serve Train as nurses, educators, and leaders And most importantly — deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ They come from cities and islands, highlands and coastlines. But they leave with one mission: To serve Christ and to serve people. 🌏 Nazarene Universities, Colleges, and Seminaries in the Asia-Pacific Region Let’s take a closer look at where God is raising up leaders through education: 🇵🇭 Philippines Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary – A regional hub for graduate-level theological training. Philippine Nazarene College – A holistic Christian college nestled in the mountains of La Trinidad, Benguet. Visayan Nazarene Bible College – Serving central Philippines with Bible-focused training. Central Philippine Nazarene College – Equipping students for Christian service in the Visayas and beyond. 🇮🇩 Indonesia Indonesia Nazarene Theological College – Preparing pastors and leaders in one of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nations. 🇯🇵 Japan Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary – Forming leaders with deep roots in Scripture and Japanese culture. 🇰🇷 South Korea Korea Nazarene University – A full university offering degrees in theology, rehabilitation, education, and more — serving with global impact. 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea Melanesia Nazarene Bible College – Discipling future pastors across PNG. Melanesia Nazarene Teachers College – Equipping Christian educators to shape young minds. Nazarene College of Nursing – One of the region’s most trusted training centers for compassionate healthcare workers. 🇦🇺 Australia Nazarene Theological College – Located in Brisbane, this college provides solid theological education for Australia and the South Pacific. 🇫🇯 Fiji South Pacific Nazarene Theological College – Serving multiple island nations with extension centers and remote learning. 🇹🇭 Thailand Chapman International College – A multicultural college with programs in Thai, Burmese, and other languages. Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College – Training emerging leaders across Southeast Asia. 🇹🇼 Taiwan Taiwan Nazarene Theological College – Teaching Scripture and theology in Mandarin and preparing students to serve in a unique cultural setting. 💬 What Makes These Schools Special? They’re places of calling — where God confirms a student’s purpose. They’re culturally rooted — offering training that fits the local context. They’re globally connected — united by the mission of the Church of the Nazarene. They’re mission-focused — equipping students to serve where Christ is needed most. Whether it’s a pastor in Papua New Guinea, a teacher in Thailand, or a nurse in the Philippines, these institutions are forming leaders who go where the Church is called. 🙏 God Is at Work in Every Classroom From the tropical islands of Fiji to the bustling cities of South Korea… From the rice fields of Thailand to the highlands of the Philippines… God is moving. In every class, every prayer meeting, every outreach, every graduating student — the mission continues. This is Nazarene education in the Asia-Pacific Region. This is how the Church grows stronger.

This is the question that has haunted the human heart across all generations: What happens when we die? Is death the end? Is there a second chance? Do we just sleep? Will we rise again? The Church of the Nazarene does not guess. It speaks from Scripture, and this is what we believe: There Will Be a Resurrection “We believe in the resurrection of the dead, that the bodies both of the just and of the unjust shall be raised to life and united with their spirits—‘they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.’” — Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 16 No one stays in the grave forever. The just and the unjust The saved and the lost The righteous and the wicked All will rise. This is not symbolic. It is real. Bodies will be raised. Spirits will be reunited. There will be two resurrections: The resurrection of life The resurrection of damnation (See John 5:29) Will Everyone Face Judgment? “We believe in future judgment in which every person shall appear before God to be judged according to his or her deeds in this life.” — Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 16.1 Yes. No one is exempt. No one is overlooked. No one is misjudged. You. Me. All people. We will all stand before God, the Righteous Judge. “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” — Genesis 18:25 See also: Romans 2:6–11; 2 Corinthians 5:10 Our: Actions Words Hearts …will all be weighed. But this judgment is not random. It is just. It is holy. It is based on truth. Is There Hope? “We believe that glorious and everlasting life is assured to all who savingly believe in, and obediently follow, Jesus Christ our Lord…” — Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 16.2 Yes — there is hope. But not: In our goodness In our works Our hope is in Jesus Christ. If you believe in Him and follow Him, then your destiny is not fear — It is glory. Life with Christ Forever Resurrected Renewed Restored But What About Hell? “…and that the finally impenitent shall suffer eternally in hell.” — Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 16.2 This is a hard truth, but it is real. Hell exists. Not because God is cruel, But because God is just. Those who: Reject Christ Refuse to repent …will face eternal separation from God. See Luke 16:23–26; Revelation 20:14–15 God offers mercy now — But the door will not stay open forever. So, What Should We Do? Believe Repent Follow Jesus Live now in light of eternity. Worship with joy Witness with urgency Walk in holiness Because: Resurrection is coming Judgment is coming Glory is coming Choose life — today. 📖 Scripture Testifies: Daniel 12:2 – “Multitudes who sleep… will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame…” John 5:28–29 – “All who are in their graves will hear His voice…” 1 Corinthians 15 – “If Christ is risen, so shall we be also.” 2 Corinthians 5:10 – “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…” Matthew 25:31–46 – The separation of the sheep and the goats Revelation 20:12–15 – Books were opened… the dead were judged. This Is Not the End There is life after this life. There is judgment after our choices. There is a future — and it begins now.