In Remembrance of Christ

Did you know that December 25th is not the actual birth date of Jesus Christ? 

Did you know that it was originally a celebration of Christ that was established by the Roman Catholic Church when they initiated a Mass during the same season that many civilizations were already engaged in various winter solstice celebrations of the sun god? 

That's how the term Christ Mass was established. It was all part of an effort to covert people to Christianity. However they failed to steer the people away from the sun god rituals in spite of the new church-initiated Mass to celebrate the Son of God.

We share this with you because many skeptics use this well established historical fact to attack Christians who are ignorant of church history. They feel that this discrepancy, concerning the birth of Christ, gives them leverage to deny the Bible and the Son of God.

We're just providing a little more understanding as to why there is so much confusion and controversy surrounding December 25th.

Many Believers already know that the Bible never says that Christ was born in December. The point is that it doesn't matter that He wasn't born on December 25th. We assert that this church-initiated celebration was never an attempt to mark December 25th as Christ's date of birth. 

It was intended to celebrate the REALITY and PURPOSE for His coming.

Since millions of people have come into the Faith as Protestants, they have never been aware of the history behind December 25th. Most of that history is very negative and even involves an annual persecution of Jewish people on that day.

Over the years, the Christmas (Christ Mass) celebration has embraced many not-so Christian-like traditions and those traditions have become disconnected from historical facts and understanding. Of course the history is far more complicated than this, but we really don't have space to cover every detail in a simple newsletter. Hopefully, this will get you started in pursuing answers in your own personal study.

As a side note, many Biblical historians believe that Christ was actually born at a much more significant God-ordained time (perhaps in the Spring when sheep were giving birth). However, for most Jewish people, December 25th is directly connected with a negative history of persecution, and it is a 24-hour celebration declaring that there is another way to come to Jehovah God; so they want no part of it.

Over the past few weeks, we have been offering very important points for you to consider for making Godly responses to the sun-god-worship origins of December 25th. As Community life coaches and Spiritual leaders, we have decided to provide practical answers and solutions for you and your family.

Here are the four points we asked you to consider for responding to people who are caught in the midst of this controversy:

1.) Become all things to all men - 1 Corinthians 9:18-23

2.) Don’t allow your freedom to cause your brother to stumble - 1 Corinthians 8:4-13

3.) Use the opportunity (holiday) to bless your enemies - Matthew 5:43-45; and

4.) Continue in the early church lifestyle of giving to others/ helping the poor - Acts 2: 40-47

This week we are offering the fifth response:

5.) Consider a foundational Christian celebration: Partaking of the Lord's Table in Remembrance of Christ (Luke 22:14-20).

Jesus instructed His followers to partake of the communion table in remembrance of Him (Luke 22: 14-20). The holiday season is another perfect opportunity to place emphasis on Jesus Christ by gathering to do what HE instructed us to do. That's what we choose to do every year with our Fruitful Life Learning Community.

Millions of Believers will gather in sanctuaries or in their homes to partake of Holy communion and truly reflect upon the reason Christ came into the world.

These special gatherings remind us that the Son of God is not to be merely thought of as a baby lying in a manger, but as our Savior who was brutally beaten and nailed alive to a wooden cross. We should remember that He rose again from the dead to usher all of us into the Family and Kingdom of God.

As we stated last week, we are simply trying to communicate that in spite of the historical facts, controversies and conflicts that surround December 25th, CHRIST must truly become YOUR reason for this season and all year round.

The world will continue to celebrate the sun god (in all of its many names and forms) as part of their annual winter celebrations. WE must celebrate the SON of God and give a Godly RESPONSE to our non-believing family and friends, and to our Christian brothers and sisters who may not have this insight.

Enjoy the day and enjoy the season!

Giving Is Already Our Lifestyle

In the midst of a global pandemic people are struggling trying to find a way to celebrate the holiday season. The entire year has been challenging and even as it wraps up, it still shows no sign of letting up on the relentless assault on our lives.

In years past, people of various faiths and religious beliefs have furiously battled over the appropriate way to deal with the holiday season. Even within Christianity there are debates about the way December 25th  should be celebrated, or if it should be celebrated at all.

Over the past few weeks we have been offering very important points for us to consider for making a Godly response to the pagan origins of December 25th. As Faith Leaders and Community Life CARE Coaches, we have decided to provide practical answers and solutions for you and your family.

Here are the three points we asked you to consider for responding to people who are caught in the midst of the Christmas controversy:

1.) Become all things to all men - 1 Corinthians 9:18-23 

2.) Don’t allow your freedom to cause your brother to stumble 

- 1 Corinthians 8:4-13

3.) Use the opportunity (holiday) to bless your enemies - Matthew 5:43-45

This week we are offering the fourth of five responses:

Response #4: Continue steadfast in the early church lifestyle of giving - Acts 2: 40-47

In the early church, they developed a lifestyle of sharing with others and making intentional efforts to help those in need. This was not a practice that came out of pagan rituals. The Church did this as part of the overflow of the life of Christ within them.

Never think of gift-giving and helping the needy as only a holiday thing. It's simply a Godly response. Christmas just happens to be a great time to do what should come naturally for Believers all year.

Many people claim that they give presents to others because December 25th is Jesus' birthday. Hopefully, we have made it clear that Christmas was never intended to be celebrated as the birth date of Christ, but instead, the celebration of the fact that Christ came into the world to take away the sin of humanity.

Therefore, even though the reasoning behind the gift-giving claim is a bit misguided, the practice of gift-giving is not.

Today, we are urgently trying to communicate that in spite of the historical facts, controversies and conflicts that surround December 25th, Christ must truly become YOUR reason for this season and all year round. 

The world will continue to celebrate the SUN god (in all its many names and forms) as part of their annual winter celebrations. WE must celebrate the SON of God and give a Godly RESPONSE to our non-believing family and friends, and to our Christian brothers and sisters who may not have this insight.

Many religious leaders are preaching strongly about the negative issues that surround the winter holiday season. However, we believe that it is one thing to expose all the problems with December 25th, but it is another thing to actually offer a way for people to RESPOND in this season and bring Glory to God the Father.

Yes, we must speak the truth about December 25th, but what does it matter if we cannot present TRUTH in LOVE and take advantage of the opportunity to lead people to a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ?

Giving gifts and helping the needy is more than a December 25th thing; it's a Godly thing. God gave us the gift of His son. For God so loved the world that He gave.....

The Gift of Forgiveness

A couple weeks ago we started discussing the controversies surrounding various December celebrations and traditions; and how we, as Believers, must stop merely REACTING to the negative origins of December 25th and begin making a wise RESPONSE to this season. 

We are offering at least Five Godly Responses to December 25th. 

So far we have presented two responses:

#1: Become All Things to All Men from 1 Corinthians 9:18-23 (NKJV)

#2: Don’t allow your freedom to cause your brother to stumble from 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 (NKJV) 

This week we’re offering response #3 - Use the opportunity (holiday) to love, bless, do good and pray for your enemies, haters and persecutors. 

In years past, (before our current Covid-19 lock downs) many people were giving in to the pressure to buy gifts and they’d run up huge credit card bills to do it. During one holiday season, we saw a celebrity on a talk show and he said the only thing he asked his family and friends to give him was a gift that doesn’t cost any money. So he simply asked for a letter, a poem, a song, a phone call, etc. It is truly amazing how one of the richest people in America has a request for the most important things in life. Meanwhile, many financially struggling people in America try to spend money. 

We plan to enjoy the holiday by spending time with one another. We are focusing on our relationships; even the relationships that are not doing so well. We encourage you to do the same. 

In Matthew 5:43-45 (NKJV), Jesus said: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." 

This may seem radical, but we believe that we can use this holiday season as an opportunity to bless those who are our enemies. 

What a marvelous time to do something so completely unexpected that it truly personifies what it means to be a child of our Father in heaven. Just like HE provides sunshine and rain (both of these are blessings) to evil and good people, we can express His goodness and mercy in a tangible way as well. 

For many of us, we don’t have to think too hard to come up with a name or two of people whom we could bless in this way. Before covid-19, many people were going to scramble through shopping malls trying to find the perfect gift for someone who is very special to them. But what if they had included in those lists, a couple of people who don’t like them very much? 

In these harsh economic times, most people don’t have very much money for purchasing gifts and the holiday season has become more of a burden of obligation. However, we encourage you to consider those who spitefully used you or even persecuted you. It might be something as simple as sending a greeting card or sending a text message or greeting. 

One year the Holy Spirit showed me that I had buried unforgiveness regarding a childhood bully. Just mentioning his name brought up old feelings of anger and resentment. So the Lord impressed upon me to start the cleansing process by sending a Christmas card with a letter. It was to be the first step in blessing someone who persecuted me long ago. 

What names and faces come into your thoughts as you consider this Godly response? Don’t hesitate. Take advantage of this season to respond like a child of God. Give the gift of forgiveness. 

Respond by blessing your enemies.

A Matter of Conscience

It might be difficult to conceive, but there are millions of people who have real issues with December 25th. 

Last week we began discussing some of the controversies surrounding December 25th and how we, as Believers, can stop merely REACTING to the negative origins of that date and begin making wise RESPONSES to this season.

We are offering at least Five Godly Responses to December 25th.

Last week we presented response #1: Become All Things to All Men, according to 1 Corinthians 9:18-23.

This week we offer Response #2: 

Don’t cause your brother to stumble - 1 Corinthians 8:4-13 (NKJV)

In his first letter to the church in Corinth, Paul was dealing with a matter that was very similar to the controversial December 25th issues. Some Believers were participating in the practice of eating food that was offered to idols. They didn’t feel restricted because they knew that the idols were not real gods and they also knew that what goes into a person is not what defiles them.

It’s the same for Christian Believers today who participate in modern December 25th rituals that have proven historical foundation in idol worship. They feel, just as those early Believers, that they are free in Christ Jesus. Therefore, they have no problem with the negative origins.

However, Paul admonished those early Believers to not allow their freedom to cause another brother to stumble. He explained that due to his brother's conscience, he did not have internal permission to participate in that practice of eating food offered to idols.

If another Believer is struggling with our practices, it may wound their conscience. Paul actually says that we sin against our brother and Christ. The sin is not the practice itself, but it is in how the participation affects our brothers.

Let’s read the letter: “Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live.

However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse.

But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols? And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.”

We realize that even though there are many things that are okay for Chris and Carol to do, but as Spiritual coaches and spiritual leaders in this community, they are not always expedient. Some things are not wise for us to do. Some things are not beneficial for us to do. There are many things that we were at liberty to say and do in Missouri that have proven to be offensive in Pennsylvania. So we don't do them for the sake of our brothers and sisters in this region and their culture.

Why abstain? Well, because we have an extremely important mission and purpose for being in Pennsylvania. Some of our freedoms could go beyond merely offending another brother, and could actually cause them to stumble. Paul says that some of our freedoms could actually wound another brother’s conscience. Our freedoms can even cause others, who are outside of the Faith, to continue in their ungodly practices. 

So, we have learned that some things are just not worth it. Why risk losing potential brothers and sisters or wounding current brothers and sisters?

What are we saying to you today? We're saying, please be very careful of what you practice in this controversial season. Allow the Holy Spirit to give you the 'yea and nay' about what you do. Don't question Him. Just obey Him.

We cannot, do not, must not, and will not dictate what goes on in your home. We’re not the December 25th police! God knows who is in your family and He knows the people who are part of your life. You might be connected to people with whom your response is based upon what we mentioned last week ….I have become, to those who are without law, as without law.

Most of today’s December 25th practices don’t cause people any internal conflict because they have no knowledge of the history. But if you are closely connected with family members who have issues with these things, be very wise and sensitive to where they are in their conscience. They would require the response from last week's scripture .…I become to those who are under the law, as under the law.

Remember, a person’s beliefs are often deeply rooted in teachings, personal understanding, personal interpretation, cultural or familial upbringing, history and life-long experiences. 

It really is a matter of their conscience. Don’t force someone to violate their own conscience. It’s not simply a matter of whether THEY are right or wrong about December 25th. Don’t let your freedom cause your brother to stumble.

Respond with understanding, patience and love.

The Holiday Challenge

It’s that time again. It’s the holiday season. Even in the midst of a pandemic, Americans are still trying to make time for family, fellowship, food and festivities. 

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us we're going to start talking about December 25th. That's because, the day after Thanksgiving is the traditional start of the holiday shopping season. Therefore, we're going to take advantage of this annual launch to start talking about December 25th and what it truly means in America today.

Did you know that many people feel that Christmas should not be celebrated?

When you learn about some of its history you can understand why. Here are just a few reasons why it is not celebrated in many sectors of American society. You might have family or friends who feel this way:

1.) December 25th is just a capitalistic marketing ploy to manipulate the masses to spend money.

2.) There is no Christian church validation that Jesus was really born on December 25th.

3.) December 25th is a day on which Jews have been shamed, tortured and murdered.

4.) Many of the most popular December 25th customs – including trees, mistletoe, stockings and Santa Claus – are modern reincarnations of pagan rituals.

5.) Most December 25th customs evolved from pagan rituals and practices and, therefore, should never be observed.

We agree that these are all very strong arguments for not participating in the festivities of the holiday. Many preachers across America will accurately and systematically destroy any reason a Christian Believer could possibly be connected to this season of the year.

However, as you know, we have built a reputation on diving into controversial topics and we’re about to add more fuel to that fire.

Many Christians and religious people have taken the position that it is wrong to embrace things that were perverted and sinful in their origins. They feel we should never attempt to use these things for God. 

However, that's exactly what God did with us. Even though we were born in sin and shaped in iniquity, Christ died for us while we were still sinners. For anyone who receives Him, He gives them the power to become children of God. He changes us and sets us apart for His purpose. He didn't allow our sinful origins to keep us away from His divine purpose.

Now, as His children, we have the opportunity to take advantage of a season that has very negative origins and highly commercialized, money-making schemes. This is one of the special times in which our families can be exposed to the reality of Jesus Christ and the true reason why He came to earth.

We believe that we must do much more than just debate about all the reasons why we should not celebrate December 25th. Most people simply REACT to the negative aspects of this date. We believe that we need to provide Believers Godly ways to RESPOND to this season.

Beginning this week, and up until Christmas Day, we want to give you Five Godly Responses to the Pagan Origins of December 25th.

This week we’re presenting response #1: 

Become All Things to All Men.

In 1 Corinthians 9:18-23, Paul writes, "For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you."

We see the Christmas season as the perfect opportunity to connect with many different kinds of people. This scripture does not mean that we become hypocrites and pretenders in order to indulge in secular practices. This is talking about connecting with people ON THEIR LEVEL of understanding. This is about identifying with them, the same way Christ identified with all of mankind.

Don't shun people because of what they believe or practice during this season. Don't isolate yourself from the office party or the family gathering because they may have traditions or rituals that are against your beliefs. Become all things to all men, so that you might by all means save some.

We'll give you a week to ponder over these thoughts! Please watch for next week's posting as we provide another way to avoid merely REACTING to, but instead, wisely RESPONDING to the pagan origins of December 25th.

Changing the Cancel Culture with CARE

How do you have a conversation with people who have a political, social or religious view that is different from your own?

How do you connect with someone who has no faith tradition or they have a non-traditional faith practice?

How do you handle life's awkward encounters?

How do you build a culture within your community and within your own heart that does not cancel people?

These challenges are answered in Chris and Carol Green's 19th publication titled Responding With Care: Listening, Lifting and Launching. 

In this powerfully relevant message for our time, embedded in a searcherdemic-based presentation, the Greens build a strong case for adopting the principles of CARE (Civility and Compassion, Awareness and Accountability with Respect and Empathy) in our personal and professional lives.

As the creators of the CARE-Ready Life Coaching® model and its initiatives, Chris and Carol Green, reveal their highly recommended, tested, proven and successful people-connecting strategy. Their innovative "Listen, Lift, Launch" approach to mentoring and life coaching (aka Discipleship) was built from years of successfully empowering those who live and work in underserved communities.

Coaches, mentors, counselors, pastors, community leaders and neighborhood helpers have been elevated higher than “assess and treat”.  Instead of trying to fix or reconstruct people, CARE is about listening for understanding, lifting  through skilled spiritual guidance, and launching people into new possibilities. 

With its Foreword written by La-Verna Fountain, a highly sought after communications and conflict resolution specialist who works with large scale organizations, we encourage you to get the CARE-Ready Handbook that's been 25 years in the making.

Order from Amazon Books HERE

STEP Forward Life Institute Highlighted in Global Magazine

Chris and Carol Green, along with ten other leaders and organizations from all over the world, were featured in a global magazine.

"We continue to make connections with leaders around the world through a powerful initiative that seeks to change the way we approach education in the 21st century," the Green's stated.

Their STEP Forward Life Institute, which administers their exclusive CARE-Ready Life Coach Certification program, was included in an internationally released online publication.

Productive Business Magazine highlights and shares productive business stories worldwide. This issue focused on "Searcherdemics" highlighting the journey of a "New Global Education System.”

Click the link below to read. (We're on page 6)

Productive Business Magazine Link

Fruitful Living in Every Season

We think about the different seasons that we went through in our life, and how we had seasons of prosperity and seasons of leanness; and now we describe them like the natural four seasons. 

We have been through seasons of autumn, when the leaves were falling and then there were seasons of winter, when everything just seemed to be dead. There were seasons of spring when life was returning. And then the seasons of summer when it was hot and things were happening. 

After we go through a summer season, then fall (autumn) returns, and many of us start to think that we failed. We feel like we've done something wrong, and we're out of God's will, because the same trees (ideas) that were bearing fruit, and flourishing, now we're watching the leaves turn brown and yellow, and they're falling off. And we’re like, “God, what happened?" 

Many people struggle when it comes to understanding seasons, but the reality is that it is not always spring and summer time.  It may be difficult to precisely define the season that you’re in, but that’s okay.  As you are reading through this book, you will gain discernment for where you are, and the determination to keep moving forward in God's purpose for your life.

Chris and Carol Green offer wisdom from their 30-year personal and pastoral journey, providing hope, faith and insight on how to be fruitful in every season.

Get in the flow at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1514327066

 

The Honor Role: Heartfelt Words from One Concerned Father

"In our world today, we honor and display what should be covered in modesty, and we ignore, shame and cover what should be Honored," author Chris Green comments in his latest publication. "The Role of Men should be honored and encouraged, not covered or shamed."

However, it is covered and even despised due the influence of evil in the heart of mankind that has distorted and perverted what God ordained to be an honorable role in the family, community, and all of society.

For Chris, it all began when he wrote a letter to the mayor of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, USA, back in the 1990's, in protest of several special interest groups who were presenting political views and social movements that, he felt, were detrimental to his efforts as a husband of a loving woman, and a father of three African American boys. It was his small effort to cry out against the special interest groups that were, in his humble opinion, contributors to the destruction of the Black family and community.

In his third solo authorship project, The Honor Role, Green challenges men to restore honor to the role of husband and father. 

"My newest book may surprise you because it does not take you through an outline of topical chapters and studies," Green explains. "As we moved into the empty nest time of life and then became grandparents, we also transitioned to a responsibility to pass on our knowledge and experience to our sons. So this compilation is not only for men in general, but to three men, specifically. 

My wife and I have released this book because we believe God gave us strategies for both building and guarding our families. We are witnesses that those who have embraced these strategies, have experienced the fulfillment of God's promise to rebuild, restore and renew their hearts and homes."

This book is a very special collection of Green's most significant messages to men; published with the intent to fortify those who are genuinely striving for excellence during an era in which negative stereotypes, current abuse, and horrible history are constantly aired and rehearsed, and male bashing is popular, applauded and rewarded.

Order a copy for you or your son(s) at   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GTNL8ZP

  

Our Hearts Were Broken: 9/11 Anniversary Tribute

 

Our Hearts Were Broken

9/11 Anniversary Tribute (Written 9/11/2011)

Ten years ago today our hearts were broken.

In horror we watched, no word could be spoken.

Time stopped, Could this be really happening?

My eyes can’t believe what I’m seeing.

Did the news flash really say what I'm hearing?

Sirens and screams in the background searing.

I cannot imagine what people are feeling.

As loved ones perish while thousands are fleeing.

Overwhelmed with grief, sickened by sorrow.

It’ll just be a nightmare when I wake up tomorrow.

How could something so evil be unleashed on the world?

Snatching the innocence of every boy and girl.

We’ll never forget the moment the second plane flew in.

The exclamation of the commentator,

"O my God, It happened again!"

And panic begin to set in as we learned

The terror plot wasn’t done,

Another plane had crashed into the Pentagon.

We’ll never forget the thoughts as we watched events unfold.

Is this the fulfillment of Biblical prophecies, foretold?

Is it just the random deed of some religious maniac?

Is it the start of world war three, is our nation under attack?

We’ll never forget the moment

When those towers came crashing down.

Our hearts were crumbling with it,

Knowing lives were being snuffed out.

I wanted to scream, I wanted to cry,

But I could only kneel down.

I prayed to God, 

In whom peace and solace could be found.

God alone can avenge the taking of innocent lives.

For the first responders who left behind

Grieving children, husbands and wives.

For the mothers, fathers, sons and daughters

Who faded away with no warning;

For the brothers and sisters

Who did not see the next day’s dawning.

It’s taken me ten years,

To put words on these thoughts.

Ten years of processing feelings

Of profound sadness and loss.

I don’t think I’ll ever be able to fully express

What happened to us that day,

Except that I know we came to understand

The tears on God’s face!

For ions of time

He has watched mankind destroy one another.

He stepped in from the beginning

After one brother killed the other.

What religious view is so important

That so many lives need to be shattered?

What political agenda means so much

That nothing else matters?

America, America, 

God poured out His grace on Thee

As crying and wailing rang out 

From sea to shining sea.

Ten years ago our hearts were broken,

But I have to wonder somehow.

Where will we be within our hearts

Another ten years from now?

Chris Green, 9/11/2011

Chris Green wrote this song three days after the tragic events of 9/11. The lyrics are based upon the prophetic words of Jeremiah Chapter 5 (Will I not avenge myself on a nation such as this?). 

This song intends no disrespect to those who died and have suffered since that day.  However, it is a sobering message to people of Faith, that still resonates to this day.

This song is addressing the American Church and its responsibility to follow the life and mission of Jesus Christ in ministering to a nation in crisis.

WITH HIS PRESENCE

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

HIS THOUGHTS ARE HIGHER THAN OUR THOUGHTS

HIS WAYS ARE HIGHER THAN OUR WAYS

WHEN WE RECEIVE THEM

THERE WILL BE A DIFFERENCE

WITH HIS PRESENCE

THERE'LL BE SHOUTS OF JOY

WITH HIS PRESENCE

BY PEACE WE'LL BE LED

THE MOUNTAINS WILL BREAK FORTH BEFORE US

WE WILL BE FRUITFUL IN THE LAND

REVEAL THE THOUGHTS HIGHER THAN OUR THOUGHTS

REVEAL THE WAYS HIGHER THAN OUR WAYS

WHEN WE RECEIVE THEM

THERE WILL BE A DIFFERENCE

(CHORUS)

Trees of the field clapped their hands

Mountain and the hill skipped and danced

In His way no man can stand

‘Cause in His name we advance

By His presence we were led

To go somewhere no man has tread

Demons trembled and they fled

To hear His name just like He said

(CHORUS)

CHRIS GREEN

HEART OF THE NATION MUSIC, 1993, 2001

ANYWAY

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

Now I know the Lord will save

His anointed by His Grace

He will answer in the day

Of our trouble and our pain

Some will put their trust in man

And the strength of human hands

We will remember and call his name

We will always choose to praise Him

Anyway

I’m gonna lift the praise

Anyway

‘Cause I know you will answer

Every time I’ve been in this place

I lifted my voice and declared Your name

Anyway

Lord to You I lift my soul

You lead me and Your path You show

Let me never be ashamed

Since I’m trusting in Your name

The one who fears You teach Your Way

You pardon sin for Your Name’s sake

I seek the answer no other place

On You I will wait all the day

Anyway

Chris Green

Heart of the Nation Music, 1999

GOD IS AWESOME

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

GOD IS AWESOME! 

HE'S TOTALLY OTHER

THERE IS NO GOD LIKE HE

WHOSE PRESENCE IS MADE KNOWN

DISPLAYED THROUGH ALL NATURE

DECLARING HIS GLORY 

IN EARTH, SKY, & SEA

THE HEAVENS PROCLAIM THE GLORY OF GOD

THERE'S NO LANGUAGE 

WHERE THEIR VOICE IS NOT HEARD

EVERYDAY AS THEY GO FORTH THEY SPEAK

THEY CALL UNTO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

(THEY'RE SHOUTING!)

(Chorus)

IN THE HEAVENS HE PITCHED A TENT FOR THE SUN

A BRIDEGROOM COMING FOR THAT SPECIAL ONE

HE RUNS A COURSE FROM THE EAST TO THE WEST

A TESTIMONY TO EVERYONE

(IT'S SHOUTING!)

(Chorus)

HEAR THE TREES CLAP THEIR HANDS

THE OCEANS CRASHING ON THE SANDS

SINGING GLORY, GLORY PRAISE TO GOD

MIGHTY MOUNTAINS IN THEIR STAND

EVERYONE IN EVERY LAND

GIVE A SHOUT TO THE LORD OUR GOD

(God Is Awesome!)

CAROL AND CHRIS GREEN

HEART OF THE NATION MUSIC, 1993

BITTER AND SWEET

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

 

IN THE BITTER AND THE SWEET

IT'S DIFFICULT TO SWALLOW

THE HONEY TASTE OF TODAY

KNOWING THE TRIAL OF TOMORROW

 

TO WALK BY FAITH IS TO HEAR

AGREE AND OBEY.

WE FACE THE SOUR TIMES

WITH THE PLEASANT TASTE

 

AND HE SAID

"TAKE IT, EAT IT

DEEP INSIDE IT WILL BE BITTER

BUT IN YOUR MOUTH

THESE WORDS WILL BE SWEETER"

FOR YOU MUST PROPHESY AGAIN

THIS HOLY REVELATION

OF PEOPLES OF MANY TONGUES

OF KINGDOMS AND OF NATIONS

 

IN THE BITTER AND THE SWEET

IN MY SPIRIT THERE'S A LEAP

AND THE JOY IN MY HEART

FINDS ITS WAY TO MY FEET

 

THOUGH MANY BLESSINGS SURROUND ME

IN THE MIDST OF MY DEEP PAIN,

GOD ALONE CAN LIFT

THE HEAVY BURDEN'S STRAIN

CHRIS GREEN, DURING 40 DAY FAST 1996

WELL DONE

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

My pastor called a meeting

He had something to say

A list of things of which we all must turn away

As he read the list through 

One item caught me that day

To turn from making idols of sacrifices made 

The greatest songs are never heard

The greatest poems are not in words

The greatest drama can’t be seen

On a movie screen

And if there’s no Grammy for your voice

No Nobel Prize or People’s Choice

When you stand before the Holy One

He will say with open arms, “Well Done”

Sometimes I have a habit

Of feeling sorry for myself

I worship the greatness of my contributions

Place my trophies on a shelf

But when I see the cross

And the blood spilled for me

I toss my medals to the ground

And worship at His feet 

(Chorus)

(Bridge)

There will never be a substitute

No gift I give or treasure

And nothing will ever mean more

Than just to have His presence

STEP Forward Now An Accredited International Ministry and Searcherdemic Education Institution

The STEP Forward Institute is now one of six newly accredited international ministry and Searcherdemic education institutions through affiliation with United Graduate College and Seminary International (UGCSI). The official certificate of affiliation was presented to founder, Professor Chris Green, by the Chancellor of UGCSI during an online ceremony.

"This affiliation helps us by providing the recognition and validation that has come from God through UGCSI," Professor Chris explained to the online consortium of Searcher professors."Having this affiliation has given us a global platform that says, 'We have the evidence, we have the data, we have the proof that God's way of working with people, it works. "

STEP Forward is built on the understanding that you have a purpose, but you must be intentional about adding to your faith, embracing your unique process of success, and making certain you're prepared for once in a lifetime opportunities. If traditional paths of education don't work for you, consider the life prospectus way through (family & community) service and ministry certifications.

A prospectus outlines something that doesn't exist, and describes what it will become. Therefore, the Success Through Experience and Process (STEP) Forward Life Prospectus is not a business proposal, white paper, or mission statement, but it is a life development philosophy, process and education model that equips and empowers you to release God's solutions for your family and community.

STEP Forward is an online learning, faith-based, non-governmental, Biblical and educational platform that offers accredited ministry certifications that can strategically prepare and position you to fulfill your Kingdom Ambassador roles in your relationships, household, career, business or community outreach initiatives.

We have excellent biblically-based courses that will enable you to set yourself apart as an effective and creative contributor to the success of your community through Searcherdemics™  (Life education that is practical and relevant).  You can earn certifications through personal study, reading the required materials, accessing videos on demand, and completing assignments and/or exams. We encourage you to consider the STEP Forward Life Prospectus Institute for your community service and ministry education.

APPLY NOW at https://www.fruitfullifelearningcommunity.org/step-forward

Writing for God Alone

In the 1990’s, when we became the youth leaders in our local church, our writing exploded through the expression of songs. 

Chris would have dreams that he was listening to songs on the radio. He heard all the music and lyrics. He would wake up and record himself on a portable tape recorder so that he wouldn’t forget what he dreamed. Eventually, we kept a portable recorder on the nightstand. We used many of those songs, with their Biblically-principled lyrics, to reinforce the lessons in our weekly sessions with teenagers.

During those years, we also began writing songs that were embraced by our larger church community as our pastor recognized that our tunes contained lyrics that could impact more people beyond the youth in the congregation. We were given one Sunday each month to lead the entire congregation in songs of praise and worship, and we taught them the songs God was giving us.

We also brought the songs to the neighborhood in which our church resided. Every week our ministry had a food outreach. The neighbors were allowed to gather in the fellowship hall. While their groceries were being bagged, we assembled some of the teenagers as a small ensemble to sing to the people while they waited for their food. We literally taught the attendees our simple little tunes, and then prayed for everyone.

This outreach grew to the point where we had 50 families, (not just 50 people), yes, 50 families attending every week. They completely filled the hall. It was as if though we had another church meeting in the building. They were an incredible mix of black, white, old and young. Some said that they no longer came for the food. They were coming for the worship and the prayer. One such attendee was a young white girl who happened to be pregnant. Then, for several weeks, we didn’t see her.

Suddenly she returned with a little bundle of joy. Our volunteers and teenagers surrounded her as she kept saying, “Come see my miracle baby! See my little miracle!”

Of course, we wanted to know why she kept referring to her baby as a miracle. Then she shared her testimony and it forever changed our view of songwriting and worship.

She revealed that when the baby was born, the child died immediately afterwards. The baby was dead; gone. She said, “All I knew to do was just to sing the songs you guys taught me. So I just started singing those songs over my baby, and she came back to life. So here she is; my little miracle.”

Of course we all rejoiced with her.

From that moment to this one right now, we have not cared about trying to make it ‘big’ in the music industry. We don’t care if we are ever well-known, famous worship artists, worship writers, or any of those titles.  Our songs may never receive any awards or accolades in the Christian music industry or any other music industry. 

The highest level has already been reached and that was for them to be used by God in a powerful way. God had given us songs, and those songs of praise and worship had been instrumental in imparting faith into a new mother; in resurrecting her baby from the dead.

When it comes to writing songs, poetry, books, or anything else that we put down on paper or type into a computer, we realize God has allowed us to experience His purpose for our writing gifts. 

Only a small elite group of songwriters in this world will receive earthly awards and recognition, but this miracle was the highest honor. Our focus was set: We’re writing for God alone.

---Chris and Carol Green

Our Lyrical Life on Amazon Books

Ministry Certification Conferred Upon Fruitful Life Learning Community's First Home Church Pastor

Pennsylvania, USA --- The Founders of the STEP Forward Life Institute, Chris and Carol Green presented a Ministry Certification to Fruitful Life Learning Community's first Home Church Pastor, Madeline Clark. Affectionately known as Pastor Madeline, she has earned a Certification in CARE-Ready Life Coaching and Ministry, and the official acknowledgement as a Faculty Instructor and Certified CARE Minister.

"As we organized our various classes and courses for our online school of community service and ministry it was quite clear that she had already earned this certification," explained Prof. Carol Green, "Pastor Madeline earned the CARE-Ready Responder Certificate of Completion about four years ago, and she was certified as a Life Coach through our training partnership with United Graduate College and Seminary International (UGCSI).”

Pastor Madeline was presented her Ministry Certification during the live stream broadcast of the Fruitful Life Learning Community on Sunday, July 4, 2021.

She has been serving the Body of Christ and ministering God's word for over 30 years. In 2016, she began studying under Chris and Carol Green and the Fruitful Life Learning Community.

In December of 2018, she was ordained in Ministry Leadership with Fruitful Life Ministries because she had demonstrated decades of ministry experience. She had also served on various auxiliaries in the other Churches and ministries including: Evangelism and Outreach, Worship Team, Hospitality, ministry of Helps and Prison Ministry. She is has been a Client Specialist at a Homeless Shelter where she provided Life Skills classes and Life Coaching for women.

Madeline Clark is a pastor with a passion to help hurting and rejected women become born again in Christ, so that they can be the strong women of God that they are called to be.  She assists them by helping them to focus on the spiritual growth and development that’s needed to overcome their past. She has had to overcome a lot personally; and can identify with almost anyone she comes in contact with.  Her goal is to minister the love of God to all, that they may receive emotional healing and have restored faith in Him. 

"A few years ago, it was our honor to acknowledge her many years of service and provide ordination and covering for her ministry appointment as a pastor and teacher,” Prof. Chris Green disclosed during the online ceremony, “At that time we acknowledged her ministry role as a mature elder and overseer in the Body of Christ. Today we honor and acknowledge her life-education achievements as well."

Editors Notes:

STEP Forward is built on the understanding that everyone has a purpose, but one must be intentional when it comes to personal and professional development, understanding the process of success, and being prepared for those once in a lifetime moments that are coming. This Institute provides relevant education for the steps in that path.

A prospectus outlines something that doesn't exist, and describes what it will become. Therefore, the Success Through Experience and Process (STEP) Forward Life Prospectus is not a business proposal, white paper, or mission statement, but it is a life development philosophy, process and education model that equips and empowers you to release God's solutions (that which does not exist) into your family and community.

STEP Forward is an online learning, faith-based, non-governmental, Biblical and educational platform that offers accredited ministry certifications that can strategically prepare and position you to fulfill your Kingdom Ambassador roles in your relationships, household, career, business or community outreach initiatives.

It has excellent biblically-based courses that will enable students to be set apart as effective and creative contributors to the success of their communities through Searcherdemics™  (Life education that is practical and relevant).  Certifications are obtained through personal study, reading the required materials, accessing videos on demand, and completing assignments and/or exams. 

Chris Green Speaks at Fatherhood Academy Support Group Session

Pennsylvania, USA---- Fruitful Life founder, Dr. Chris Green (Hon. Causa) was the main speaker of today's session for the Fatherhood Academy Support Group. These weekly sessions are sponsored by Life Esteem, Inc, for men 18 years and older. This support group is especially helpful for men who are reuniting with their families involved in separation or divorce from their family, or simply to improve their parenting skills. 

"We launched tonight's session by talking about the The Process of Success: 8 Key Elements to Fulfilling Purpose," Spiritual Life Coach and Minister Chris explained. "The conversation was so engaging that we only made it through 3 of the 8 elements. That's because this workshop is all about a self inspection; not for tearing men down, but to rebuild, restore and renew them. I felt the conversation was powerful and impactful."

Dr. Nathaniel Gadsden, who leads the weekly outreach, invited Dr. Green to return and continue the Process of Success workshop next week, encouraging the men to spread the word and bring a friend. 

"This discussion about process is real and raw," Chris Green concluded. "And it is revitalizing for men: husbands, fathers, brothers and sons. I look forward to this opportunity to serve Dr. Gadsden and work with the men in this community."

Editor's Notes:

Chris (and Carol) Green are authors, life educators, entrepreneurs, certified master CARE-Ready life coaches, leadership consultants, songwriters, poets, compassionate listeners, ordained ministers, traditional marriage and  family advisers, conflict resolution mediators, holistic wellness promoters, and human value advocates.

 

With over 30 years of urban community outreach experience, today they focus most of their energy and efforts connecting with local and international leaders who desire to make a meaningful impact when working in under-served and diverse communities. 

​

Through their CARE-Ready Leadership initiatives and their proven training models, they retool, equip and empower community, government and education leaders, human service organizers, business visionaries, and neighborhood dreamers, to be much more effective by embracing the principles of CARE-Ready Responding (Civility Awareness with Respect and Empathy) and CARE-Ready  Coaching (Compassionate  Accountability with Respect and Empathy) in their professional and personal lives.

​

Their community-supporting initiatives have included hosting free monthly group CARE coaching sessions in an unemployment center, on-call CARE coaching support and CARE-Ready coach training of the staff of a women's homeless shelter, CARE-Ready coach training of mentors in an ex-offenders program, consultation with local service organizations, and collaborating with various community outreach efforts.

 

For their community service, they were inducted in the 2021 World Book of Greatness. They also received the Harambee 2019 Community Leadership Award  and a United Way 2017 Volunteer of the Year Nomination. They received Urban Leadership Awards (2016) and Community Ambassador Awards (2015) from iChange Nations™, and Goodwill Ambassadors of World Peace Awards (2015) as part of the Interfaith Peace-Building Initiative to the United Nations through Golden Rule International.​​

 

They have also been the recipients of honorary doctorate degrees (conferred in 2016 and 2018) in Christian Leadership (Chris), Humanities (Carol), and Society & Human Rights (both) to acknowledge their many years of service and significant contributions to society and the field of life coaching.

 

Chris and Carol have been married over 40 years and have raised three sons. They have two daughters-in-law, two grand children, and a host of people throughout the world who call them 'mom and dad'. They make it a priority to give back to the community through their Network of Community Services.

STEP Forward Institute Awards Three Certifications to Fruitful Life's Longest Standing Member

Head Professors Chris and Carol Green presented the first official certifications from the STEP Forward Life Prospectus Institute to the Fruitful Life Learning Community's longest standing member, Mary Dennis. Affectionately known as Mom Dennis, she has earned a Certification in Biblical Foundations, Certification in Ministry and Community Service, and Certification in Family and Community Leadership.

"As we organized our various classes and courses for our online school of community service and ministry we realized Mom Dennis has already attended enough classes through the years to earn certifications," explains Chris Green, "When we explored the attendance records through the years, we calculated that she had already earned three of the four certifications that our Institute offers. She has also earned a certificate of completion in the Community CARE-Ready Responder Training.​"

Mary was presented her Certifications during the live stream broadcast of the Fruitful Life Learning Community on Sunday, May 2, 2021.

Mary Dennis came to Fruitful Life when it began in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in September of 2004. Before coming to Fruitful Life, she served faithfully in Emmanuel Church of God in Christ for over 40 years. Most notably she was known for her service in Intercessory Prayer. She held noon-day prayer gatherings in homes, before it was moved into the church facility. In one of those prayer gatherings, her daughter (Carol) was filled with the Holy Spirit. Little did she know that her daughter would become an ordained minister.

She was an appointed ministry gift to her church, serving in helps and administration. She assisted her sister, the late Willa Mae Barbee in the church’s food bank and served as the church’s secretary. She worked as a manager at Presbyterian Apartments, a complex specifically designed for senior citizens. There, God made her a gift of compassion and encouragement to elderly citizens. She was greatly loved and the residents absolutely hated to see her go when her employment came to an end there.

She has led in Intercessory prayer in Fruitful Life's weekly public gatherings and continues to stand in intercession for this ministry on a daily basis. 

"​It is was also our honor a couple of years ago to acknowledge her many years of service and provide ordination and covering for her ministry appointment in intercessory prayer," concluded Professors Chris Green disclosed during the online ceremony. "At that time we acknowledged her ministry role as a mature elder and servant leader in the Body of Christ. Today we honor and acknowledge her biblical education achievements as well."

Success Through Experience and Process (STEP) Forward Life Prospectus Institute is an online learning, faith-based, non-governmental, Biblical education platform that offers accredited ministry certifications. Students can earn these ministry accredited certifications by watching teaching videos, and completing assignments and/or exams based on their studies.