After The Fall Ministries
The Kingdom of Heaven
Responsibility
Created by Bishop A. Johnson
In the previous study, “Natural vs. Spiritual, it’s understood that before we can comprehend the spiritual world that lives within the believer we must be born again by God’s Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our guide and helper. He helps us to discern the word of God, the bible. The Bible is written in an everyday, earthly style, but its spiritual significance can only be truly grasped by an individual's own spirit.
Once we have entered the kingdom of heaven, we are given the responsibility to grow in the spirit. “Like newborn babies crave pure spiritual milk so that by it you may grow up in your salvation now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
Wisdom
What does wisdom have to do with our responsibilities in the kingdom of heaven? First, it’s essential to look at what wisdom means because it forms the foundation for understanding our obligations. Gaining wisdom is key to unlocking deeper truths about our spiritual journey within God’s kingdom.
The Hebrew word chakam (H2449) is often translated as "wisdom." According to Strong's Hebrew and Greek concordance, one of the meanings of the word from H2449 is "wisdom" (in a good sense), which includes "skillful," "wisdom," and "wisely." This highlights the positive connotations of the term and its significance in understanding the qualities associated with wisdom in biblical context. We see that one of the Hebrew words to describe wisdom is SKILLFUL. Skillful means having the learned ability to master a task.
Life is about skill development. This takes effort on our part. We are here to learn the skills of life, true life. John 10:10 speaks about the abundance of life that Jesus died so that we may have. However, this scripture isn’t just speaking of material abundance, but the spiritual abundance Adam and Eve had before the fall. God said, "Now we will make humans, and they will be like us.
We will let them rule the fish, the birds, and all other living creatures." Rulership is a responsibility. Responsibility simply means to respond to the abilities that God has placed within us. Man faced responsibility even before his creation. “no grass or plants were growing anywhere. God had not yet sent any rain, and there was no one to work the land.”
The natural reason for man’s existence is centered on personal growth, the pursuit of wisdom, and fulfilling the responsibilities bestowed upon us. Our existence finds meaning in developing our abilities, seeking understanding, and contributing positively to the world around us. In the context of the kingdom of heaven, this purpose is reflected in our continual effort to gain wisdom (skillfulness), allowing us to respond to the gifts and abilities God has placed within us. Spiritual responsibility is what we will be looking at in this study.
When reading the Word of God, The Bible, we must understand that there natural and spiritual dimensions in each text. We will examine the term "wisdom," which is characterized by the attribute of being skillful. Each season of our life requires wisdom, and the gaining of understanding helps us to see through to the next season of our earthly journey. “All wisdom comes from the LORD, and so does common sense and understanding.”
It is important not to become discouraged by setbacks encountered while learning a new task. “God gives helpful advice to everyone who obeys him and protects all of those who live as they should.”
God created man in his image and his likeness. Man, is universal to include male and female. All individuals share a responsibility to make use of their abilities in a thoughtful and accountable manner. “My child, you must follow and treasure my teachings and my instructions.”
❖ Scriptural References1 Peter 2:2,3; Genesis 1:26; 2:5; Proverbs 2:1,6,7.
Insights
Without spiritual understanding, the Bible will always look like a natural history book. But when studied with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Scripture becomes a living revelation that reshapes our thinking, our decisions, and our entire walk with God.
Accountability
The first skill that every human must learn is the skill of balance and equilibrium. The Wisdom (skillfulness) to learn how to balance is both a spiritual and natural connotation. A toddler falling and becoming discouraged is natural. The spiritual is that move to try again. Trying again is the only way to learn the skill (wisdom) of balance.
During the toddler’s season of standing and falling, the skill of balance is at work. The mind is pushingthoughts of progression. The brain is working to understand this skill after each fall. Back in the day many infants learned to walk by walking along the side of the wall or using furniture to get to their destination.No matter how this skill is learned, Wisdom is in motion. In other words, the mind is determined to learn this skill and the brain is taking notes.
The skill of balance
1. You must remain focus on skills that God has blessed you with. Your skills are knowledge gained from life experience(s).
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
God is remarkably diverse. Within each of us there is talent and skill. Wisdom is called skill in Hebrew I believe because without it there is no development, no progressiveness in life. Wisdom is the obtaining of knowledge. If individuals do not acquire knowledge from their experiences, they will not develop wisdom. Your talents and skills will not develop.
“The kingdom is also like what happened when a man went away and put his three servants in charge of all he owned.” You should read this parable found in Matthew 25:14-30 if you are not familiar with it.
❖ Scriptural reference; Ephesians 2:10 ESV
The Knowledge of …
2. You must be determined to master the skill that God has placed within you.
“Let every skilled and talented man among you come and produce everything that the LORD has commanded.”
The principal thing, or the expectable rule of conduct is Wisdom. Learning the skills that God has placed within you. We can get a deeper understanding taken from the illustration of an infant acquiring an understanding of physical balance.
Let’s review the first steps of the toddler previously spoken of. The skill of balance has now been learned. They can walk independently without requiring any assistance or support. Wisdom has mastered its task. This experience leads to greater understanding.
Understanding is your ability to progress to the next level. Spiritually speaking, understanding is the diligence needed to be progressive in the skill(s) that God has given.
With this knowledge we progress to understanding more about this newfound skill. As that toddler grows, they become “skillful” in the knowledge of balance.
The infant knows how to walk by mastering balance. Now it’s time to get understanding. They’re moved once again by the mind to see what other advantages can be learned from this skill. Have you ever noticed how much toddlers love to run?
Walking is one of the advantages but with this skill comes other advantages. Running, climbing, jumping and more. Understanding gathers the experiences learned from the skill of balance to progress. Until you master the skill of balance you will not receive understanding that there’s more to learn. The same is true when speaking on spiritual progression.
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection and unselfish love.”
Understanding the skill of balance will move you to master other things in life. Looking at it from a spiritual perspective we are to understand how to walk in the spirit and not in the flesh. This is the spiritual skill of balance. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and you will not fall into the lust of the flesh.”
We’re living in this world but have to understand that it’s not our home. It’s a responsibility given for man to learn from. Understanding how to advance in our spiritual skills. So, the question may be asked what spiritual skill(s) are we to learn and master? “But without faith no one can please God. We must believe that God is real and that he rewards everyone who searches for him.”
This is the starting point. Understanding how to use faith to advance you in the knowledge of God. The abundance of True life. The mastery of life’s tasks is getting to know our creator and walking once again in his spiritual image and likeness.
❖ Scriptural references; Exodus 35:10 AMP;
2 Peter 1:5-7 NET; Galatians 5:16; Hebrews 11:6 CEV.
Advance spiritually
3. Doing so much but not spiritually maturing in the knowledge of God.
“I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I have made you strong, though you have not known me: I am the Lord, and there is no other. I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things.”
We can have all the knowledge there is. However, what good is it if you don’t know nor acknowledge the God that gave it to you. Worshiping the gifts, talents, and skills more than the God that placed them within you.
Before spiritual advancement can take place, acknowledgment must be the first order of business. Our Heavenly Father must be acknowledged in all things. Pride takes our focus from truth and turns it to self. Pride tells us that we are in control of our destiny. We are the authors and finishers of our faith. We often assume the roles of both judge and jury when evaluating others, while neglecting to apply the same scrutiny to our own circumstances. We become demigods. We may be advancing in this physical world but regressing in the kingdom of Heaven.
The term Complacency refers to a sense of self-satisfaction or contentment regarding one's actions or accomplishments, often without critical evaluation. “The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” The Trojan horse virus of sin is pride.
There are natural and spiritual skills. Natural skill development plays an essential role in the growth of individuals, as well as the advancement of families, communities and cultures. It is the skills needed to survive in this world. However, there is an order, a process in the development of wisdom, be it in the natural or spiritual. You must first acknowledge that the skill was placed there by God.
Once again, “All wisdom (skills) comes from the LORD, and so do common sense and understanding.”
Secondly, all skills have a purpose and most of all an order or time. A baby must learn to crawl before they walk.
We are called to first seek, aim at, strive after His kingdom and His righteousness. Seek His ways and aim at walking in His righteousness—the attitude and character of God. Then God will bless you with the desires of your heart. Matthew 6:33 tells us our purpose. To seek God. Only he knows the time for spiritual advancement.
We can become stagnant in spiritual growth when we become captain of a ship we don’t own.
“The earth is the LORD’S, and the fullness of it, The world, and those who dwell in it.”
We can become successful in this world and fail to acknowledge that the skills used for success came from God. Complacent… You’ve gained the “world” but lost your soul.
❖ Scriptural references; Isaiah 45:5-7; Proverbs 16:5; Psalm 24:1
4. Operating from an old playbook.
What worked yesterday does not necessarily mean it will work today.
God is looking for spiritual progressiveness.
“Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold,
all things are becoming new.”
Once you’ve been born again, you must learn a new skill. You must learn to walk spiritually. Each day learning how to depend on Christ who is our example. Understanding that you have been bought with a price according to 1Corinthians 6:20. You have been saved by God grace because of the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross.
His Spirit lives within you and is teaching you how to walk within this new kingdom. Your old way of thinking and acting must change. A new spiritual skill must be learned. You are now learning what it is to live in the spiritual world. No longer an independent being but depend on God to show you his ways while walking this new spiritual path.
“When I was a child, I talked like a child I thought like a child I reasoned like a child but when I became an adult I set aside childish ways.” Before your new birth you were just a kid walking in accordance with your will and fleshly desires that would lead to death and eternal damnation. Now, you are a new creature, and it is your responsibility to learn how to mature spiritually into the person God has called you to be.
Scriptural reference; 2 Corinthians 5:17
5. Not seeking to take advantage of new opportunities.
Insanity is looked at as doing the same things repeatedly and expecting a different result. God will open the door to new opportunities but often our fears close them. This can be caused by passed experiences, listening to and being around the wrong people. The culture we grew up in and our unwillingness to explore new ones.
“ If you want to live give up your foolishness and let understanding guide your steps.”
“ Don't fool yourself. Bad friends will destroy you.”
Scriptural reference; Proverbs 9:6; 1 Corinthians 15:33
6. You’re not maintaining or building your contacts and relationships that are the currency of growth.
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you, do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”
Knowledge puffs up the Bible tells us. When a skill is found some begin to get big headed. Know it all’s. Willing to give advice but unwilling to receive it.
We are to Invest in each other. In truth and wisdom, discipline and good sense, and don't part from them. Love must be the motive as we share wisdom (skills) with others.
“For just as each of us have one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
Today our skills must be focused on Kingdom building, labors with Christ Jesus takes patience. Patience builds and strengthens our faith. And we need faith.
Scriptural reference; Romans 12:3-5 NIV.
Transformation.
7. Knowledge is gained as we exercise the spiritual wisdom given to all of mankind, the measure of faith. However, only the ones who have received Jesus will use their faith to build his kingdom.
“Don't be like the people of this world but let God change the way you think. Then you will know how to do everything that is good and pleasing to him. Romans 12:2 CEV
It’s important to understand that Jesus saved our spirit. He is saving our soul and will save our body. The spirit is saved. The Bible tells us in Romans 8:35-39 that nothing can separate us from the love of God… How? because our spirit has once again been united to the Father by the sacrifice of his son Jesus the Christ and the spiritual rebirth of that individual.
The soul is going through a metamorphosis. “be transformed by the renewal of the mind…” this is a process. The bible tells us to work out our salvation. This is done by changing our mind. “workout your own salvation with fear and trembling.” How is this done?
1. We must learn how to submit to the will of our Creator by:
a) Humbling yourself in the sight of the Lord. You are under His care, bought with the blood of Yahshua, Hebrew for Jesus. You are no longer your own. When you begin to recognize Jesus as the author and finisher of your faith, then the Lord will begin to spiritually lift you up.
References James 4:7; 1Corinthians 6:19,20
b) Study the Word (bible) so that you may be approved by God, a workman that isn’t ashamed of change, rightly dividing the Word of truth. For the Word reveals God’s will to you and for you.
Reference. 2Timothy 2:15
c) You are no longer dependent on self. Your spiritual journey is now in the hands of the Holy Spirit who lives within you. He will teach, guide you and comfort you into the will of God. However, you must be a willing vessel. “Not my will be done, but yours Lord.”
Reference, John 14:15; 16:13; Proverbs 3:5,6; Isaiah 41:13
d) By keeping your mind on what is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. Jesus instructed his disciples to apply in practice all that they had learned, received, heard, or observed from him. If this is done, then the peace of God will be with you
Refer. Philippians 4:8,9
2. The body is dying. As we summit to the will of God and study his Word our mind begins to bring our body into subjection. The Word tells us to present our body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service.
Jesus made the ultimate body sacrifice. Therefore, we are to think the same way that Christ Jesus thought. We are to have the same mindset as Jesus had. This mind that was in Christ was focused on mastering the skill of faith which is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we don’t see.
The body is only interested in fulfilling its fleshly desires with the things it sees. However, as born-again spiritual beings we must now understand that the universe was created by the command of God. What we can see (all forms of matter) was not made from the visible but the invisible. Over 90% of everything that makes up the universe are invisible to the eye. We must change our focus, our mind from the natural visible world to the spiritual world. This body will return to the ground where it came from. If you follow the guidance of God's Spirit, you will begin to develop spiritual eyes and ears to discern the spiritual world that lives within you which is called the kingdom of heaven. We must live in this earthly body while in this world, but it is not to control our worldly appetites. We have a hope of receiving a new glorified body in eternity once this earthly journey has ended.
Refer. 1Corinthians 15:35-44
Insights
Without spiritual understanding, the Bible will always look like a natural history book. But when studied with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Scripture becomes a living revelation that reshapes our thinking, our decisions, and our entire walk with God.
Let’s review.
We were created spiritual human beings.
Genesis 1:26,27
Because of disobedience to God’s Word, humanity lost the power (authority, dominion) on the earth. The spirit of eternal life was removed, and death entered the heart and mind of humanity. The earth is now ruled by evil spirits.
Genesis 2:15,16; Romans 3:10; Ephesians 2:2; 6:12
God had a plan to redeem humanity back to himself. Grace would replace the law, and faith would be the prerequisite needed to enter God’s calling.
Ephesians. 2:8,9
To enter God's kingdom, one must be born of the Spirit.
John 3:5
Once we are born again of the Spirit, we must free our minds from the natural lifestyle that we once lived in. Our minds must be transformed into a spiritual mindset.
Romans 12:1,2; 2 Corinthians 4:16; Philippians 2:12
Insights
Without spiritual understanding, the Bible will always look like a natural history book. But when studied with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Scripture becomes a living revelation that reshapes our thinking, our decisions, and our entire walk with God.
Our next study will be “Responsibility” in the kingdom of heaven.
Sermons / Teachings
FAQ
What is After The Fall Ministries?
After The Fall Ministries is a Christ-centered life coaching ministry dedicated to encouraging, uplifting, and guiding individuals through life’s challenges. Our goal is to help you restore hope, deepen your faith, and walk confidently in God’s purpose for your life.
What types of coaching do you offer?
We provide:
- One-on-One Coaching – Personalized sessions tailored to your spiritual and personal journey.
- Group Coaching – Supportive group sessions for encouragement and shared growth.
- Prayer & Spiritual Guidance – Sessions focused on connecting with God, overcoming obstacles, and building faith.
Who can benefit from your services?
Anyone seeking encouragement, spiritual guidance, or a fresh start in life can benefit. Our ministry is especially helpful for those experiencing:
- Life transitions or setbacks
- Loss or grief
- Low confidence or self-doubt
A desire to grow spiritually and personally
Are your sessions faith-based?
Yes. All our coaching is rooted in biblical principles and guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. We integrate scripture, prayer, and spiritual encouragement into each session to help you grow holistically.
How do I schedule a session?
You can schedule a session by:
- Filling out the contact form on our website
- Sending an email to [your email]
- Calling us at [your phone number]
- We also offer virtual sessions if you are unable to attend in person.
How long is a typical coaching session?
Sessions typically last 45–60 minutes, depending on your needs. We also offer flexible options for follow-up or extended sessions.
Do you provide confidential support?
Absolutely. All coaching sessions are confidential, providing a safe and trusting environment for you to share openly.
What is your approach to life coaching?
Our approach combines:
- Biblical guidance – Using scripture and prayer to inspire and guide
- Practical strategies – Actionable steps to overcome challenges
- Encouragement and accountability – Supporting your growth and transformation
Is there a cost for your services?
Costs vary depending on the type of coaching session. Contact us to discuss your needs, and we will work with you to find a plan that fits your situation. Some spiritual guidance and prayer support are offered at no charge.
Can I attend if I’m not currently a Christian?
Yes. While our coaching is Christ-centered, we welcome anyone seeking encouragement, guidance, and personal growth, regardless of faith background.
“After The Fall Ministries helped me find hope when I felt completely lost. The coaching and encouragement I received gave me the strength to move forward and trust God’s plan for my life.”
— Angela M.
“I never realized how much I needed guidance until I connected with After The Fall Ministries. Their Christ-centered approach helped me rebuild my confidence and faith.”
— James T.
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