CBC Theological and Christian Education Department

The CBC 2023 theme has had some nuances in how people have rendered actually creating a situation of two themes! What is the difference? The primary distinction between "The church as the moral conscience of society" and "The church as the moral conscience of the society" lies in the inclusion of the definite article "the" before "society" in the second theme. The first theme emphasizes the church's role as a moral compass within society at large. In contrast, the second theme, by using "the society," may suggest a more specific or localized context, highlighting the church's moral influence within a particular societal framework. The nuance may reflect a focus on a specific community or social context. We have advocated the former. However, a significant number of people freely use the latter. We just hope the intent is in terms of the former. What do you think? Ngalla Godlove

BE PRODUCTIVE TILL He COMES
(Luke 19:11-27)

TCED THIS WEEK

CHRISTIANS NEED MONEY TOO: SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS

INTRODUCTION
Financial literacy is essential for responsible money management, yet Christians, like many others, may face misunderstandings or lack sufficient knowledge in this area. Misinterpretation of biblical teachings, cultural and denominational differences, and a potential fear of intertwining faith and
finances contribute to these misunderstandings.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS
Savings and investing are both financial strategies aimed at achieving specific goals, but they differ
in their purpose, risk, liquidity, and potential returns.

BIBLICAL WISDOM ON SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS
We can glean eight key principles on savings and investments from Scriptures as follows:
1. Wisdom in Consumption (Proverbs 21:20). The wise exercise prudence by storing and
managing resources carefully, avoiding impulsive and wasteful consumption.

2. Long-Term Planning and Generational Legacy (Proverbs 13:22). Encouragement for
individuals to think beyond their immediate circumstances and consider the financial wellbeing of future generations, emphasizing the importance of a lasting legacy.

3. Financial Planning and Budgeting (Luke 14:28). Stressing the significance of meticulous financial planning and budgeting before embarking on any significant financial endeavor, promoting foresight and preparation.

4. Wise Stewardship and Multiplication (Matthew 25:14-30). The parable of the talents
illustrates the responsibility of wisely using and multiplying the resources entrusted to
individuals, emphasizing active stewardship and the potential for growth.

5. Family Provision and Stewardship (1 Timothy 5:8). Emphasis on the duty to provide for one's family, tying financial stewardship to the broader context of familial responsibility.

6. Diligence and Preparation (Proverbs 6:6-8). Drawing inspiration from the ant's industrious nature, this principle underscores the value of diligence and preparation in
managing resources.

7. Eternal Focus and Lasting Treasures (Matthew 6:19-21). While not directly addressing savings, this passage encourages a shift in focus from accumulating earthly wealth to seeking eternal treasures, promoting a perspective beyond temporary gains.

8. Warning Against Debt (Proverbs 22:7). The verse warns against the potential pitfalls of
debt, highlighting the importance of financial prudence and avoiding enslavement to
lenders.

These principles, rooted in biblical wisdom, collectively provide a comprehensive guide for
individuals navigating the realms of savings and investments, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates wise stewardship, long-term vision, and responsible financial planning.

PRACTICAL STEPS ON HOW TO SAVE AND HOW TO INVEST
In the pursuit of long-term financial security and growth, mastering the dual art of saving and investing is paramount. This guide provides a roadmap for individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of financial planning.

How to Save:
Set Clear Goals;
Create a Budget;
Automate Your Savings;
Emergency Fund;
Cut Unnecessary Expenses;
Use High-Interest Savings Accounts;
Avoid Debt;

How to Invest
Educate Yourself;
Set Clear Investment Goals;
Diversify Your Portfolio;
Start Small;
Consider Retirement Accounts;
Long-Term Perspective;
Review and Adjust;
Seek Professional Advice.

CONCLUSION
Achieving financial well-being requires a harmonious integration of both saving and investing. While saving provides a safety net for emergencies, investing acts as the engine for long-term financial growth. Striking a delicate balance between these two practices is the key to unlocking your financial aspirations and securing a prosperous future.

Contact us for the complete Article.

TCED THIS WEEK

Today's Reflection
Text: Song of Solomon 2:8-15
Topic: Catch the Little Foxes that Creep into Work and Family Relationships Unoticed

Foxes are little clever, crafty animals that appears unharmful but can be very destructive.

Foxes in this context are little things that we overlook meanwhile they can easily destroy our values.

Foxes are little pride, jealousy, selfishness, complaints, dishonesty, laziness that may appear to be unharmful but are very destructive.

It is also important to note that the call to Catch Little Foxes comes in a bloomy situation not a chaotic situation. Do not wait for the whole vine to be destroyed before you start dealing with the foxes.

Deal with your own little foxes before they deal with you.

TODAY'S TEAM CONFERENCE

The presentation was on Building Healthy Communities.
The key text: Acts 2:42-47

Building Healthy Communities is a process of people working together to create conditions in which all people are spiritually, mentally and physically healthy. The workspace is a community. Building a healthy community is making the workspace a place that promote connection with each other.

We can build healthy a community by:
1. Making our community a learning community (v.42)

2. Making our community a place of sincere fellowship (v.42). The fellowship here is togetherness; synergy. Romans 15:5-6 should be the constant prayer concern.

3. Making our community a praying community (v.42)

4. Making our community a place where God is reverenced (v.43)

5. Making our community a place where things happen (v.43)

6. Making our community a place where sharing take place (v.44)

7. Making our community a happy place (v.46)

When we build a strong community people will desire to partner with us (v. 47) just like the early church enjoyed the favor of people.

GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

TODAY'S TEAM CONFERENCE

The presentation was on Office Ergonomic.

The focus was on sitting hazard. Adapting the right position while sitting increases productivity.

Sitting Risks:
When you sit, you use less energy than you do when you stand or move;
Sitting for too long increases your risk of chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers;
Too much sitting can also be bad for your mental health;

How to control Sitting Risks:
Avoid prolong sitting;
Try to sit upright as much as you can;
Take frequent breaks of standing (if your work requires sitting spend 40% of your work time standing)
Stand while talking on the phone;
If you work at a desk, try a standing desk — or improvise with a high table or counter;
Position your work surface above a treadmill — with a computer screen and keyboard on a stand or a specialized treadmill-ready vertical desk — so that you can be in motion throughout the day.

Keynote Speaker 2

Topic: Conducting Peer Review to Enhance Collaboration and Collective Excellence among Formal and Non-Formal Theological Educators

Rev Dr Ndongndeh Godlove Nkwain

Symposium on Non-Formal Theological Education and Parachurch Ministries

Day Two

Presentation of Ministries
Navigators

Presenter: Mr. Taniform Vincent

Presentation of Ministries
TNet Cameroon

Presenter: Rev Dr Ndiformumbe Johnson

Presentation of Ministries
NETS Center for Church Planting and NETS Africa

Presentation done by Rev Dr Shadrach Vegah NETS Africa Coordinator

Keynote Speaker 1

Topic: The Significance of Non-Formal Theological Education, The Role of Parachurch Ministries, And The Value of Collaboration with Established Seminaries

Speaker: Rev. Prof Wilfred Fon

You can still join us
@ Pessi Hotel Bafoussam

We are one week to this great program. You can still plan to attend it.

No registration is required.

GOOD NEWS GOOD NEWS !!!!!!!!

The long awaited Building Godly Teenagers Volume 3 is now available. Building Godly Teenagers Volume 3 are lessons carefully prepared taking into consideration the language, the challenges and the needs of teenagers.

This volume focuses on general issues affecting teenagers. The concept of Love a very relevant topic among teenagers has been explained in two sections of the book. General issues such as unwanted pregnancy, STD's, depression, drug abuse, and cultism have been viewed with biblical lenses and some practical steps suggested to deal with them. Social issues such as dating, chosing a life partner, deliquency, use of social media, games and gambling have also been explored. We have also suggested lessons that can help teenagers to grow in their Bible study and prayer life.

Contact the Christian Supplies Service in Bamenda (Baptist Center) or the Christian Supply Center in Douala ( Field office) or the Supplies Service Manager (Contact: 671 893 198) for your copies.

Pastor Menjoh Ringyu Roland
OPR Assistant TCED

No registration is required.

Good teaching must be slow enough so that it is not confusing, and fast enough so that it is not boring.

William Arthur Ward

TCED THIS WEEK

Today's TEAM CONFERENCE Discussion

PROMOTING PRODUCTIVITY AND COMMITMENT AT WORK: A THEOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT

By Ngalla Godlove

ABSTRACT
In today's dynamic work environment, the psychological contract has emerged as a crucial yet often unspoken element that shapes the relationship between employees and employers. This article examines the multifaceted nature of the psychological contract and its profound impact on workplace commitment and productivity. Rooted in the realms of psychology and organizational behavior, this concept encapsulates the implicit expectations, beliefs, and perceptions that individuals hold about their employment and the reciprocal promises made by the organization. The article explores key dimensions of the psychological contract, including job security, career growth, work-life balance, recognition, and the work environment.

The "psychological" aspect of this contract underscores its intangible nature, delving into the intricate interplay of emotions, perceptions, and experiences that characterize the employee-employer relationship. Unlike traditional formal contracts, this agreement operates at a subjective level and adapts to evolving circumstances. It is closely linked to trust and fairness, and when expectations align with reality, it engenders positive outcomes such as job satisfaction and commitment. However, disparities can lead to feelings of violation and decreased motivation.

A unique perspective introduced in this article is the concept of "Covenantal Commitment," drawing inspiration from theological covenants between individuals and God. This perspective extends the spiritual commitment to the realm of human relationships within organizations, emphasizing mutual respect, shared values, and ethical considerations. Within church organizations like the Cameroon Baptist Convention, Covenantal Commitment takes on special significance, going in line with core values and promoting an environment where work becomes an expression of faith and service.

The article concludes with the assertion that understanding and nurturing the psychological contract are critical for creating a committed and engaged workforce. Organizations can address factors such as job security, career growth, work-life balance, recognition, and the work environment, to promote a positive psychological contract that leads to enhanced productivity and job satisfaction. Ultimately, the psychological contract serves as a bridge between personal expectations and organizational realities, contributing to the success and well-being of both individuals and institutions.

For the full article contact this number 6 73 50 40 30

Picture: Bible Teacher's Workshop in Fields

TCED THIS WEEK
Today's Team Conference was centered on building strong relationships.

Summary
The strong relationship that existed between Jesus and his inner circle (Peter, James and John ) should motivate us to build strong relationships (Luke 5:4-11; 8:49-56; Mark 9:2-3; Matt 26:36-38).

The ingredient that is needed to build strong relationships is love. Love can only be genuine when we know each other beyond the surface. When we are open to each other and when we are flexible with each other.

TCED THIS WEEK

This week during our maiden Team Conference we were looking at the vision of the Department.

Vision of the Department: Till Christ is completely former in every believer.
Text: Galatians 4:19

The department desire to see Christians become mature in Christ. This maturity should be in relationships, morality and theology (Michael S. Lawson).

As we serve the church having in mind our vision, these are three prayer points from the department. You can join us as we pray.

1. In 1 Timothy 1:5, Paul intends his teaching to produce Love in the lives of the students. Until that was accomplished, the goal for his instruction was not achieved.
We pray that God will enable those who use our literature to love. They will have good relationships, from a pure heart, a good conscience and a sincere faith (This should also be the prayer of every Bible teacher).

2. In Hebrews 5:14 mature disciples are able to take solid food and are able to distinguish between good and evil.
We pray that our literature should be solid food for the christians, and that it will help them to think God's thoughts so that their judgements on matters of life will become more godly.

3. In Ephesians 4:11-14 Paul's words seem to suggest both a goal and a result. We achieve the goal of maturity and we reap the result of theological stability.
We pray that our literature will be theological sound so that those who use them will have theological stability.

For the full article you can contact this number 671 487 857

TCED THIS WEEK
BALANCING WORK, FAMILY AND CHURCH

The demands of life exercise alot of pressure on us daily. Work, family and involvement in the life of church in the context of a local church are three strong pillars of our lives. How can we strike a balance so that one area will not suffer?

Don't miss Family Week Lessons

You can also get a copy for yourself and your family.

TCED THIS WEEK

Only a family that is founded in Christ can stand as oaks of righteousness in a society.

Grasp a copy of this year family week lessons and get more details.

TCED THIS WEEK
Christian families are to set an example for society. For christians families to remain ever green in a fading society, they are to be deeply rooted in Christ to the point where they are secured against all the storms of life.

You are encouraged to get a personal copy of this year family week lessons.

2023 Family Week Lessons are now available.

The lessons seek to call on Christian families through the
different topics to be mindful of their witness in society. Building a strong church that will be the moral conscience of society starts with building healthy famillies.

There are five lessons structured as follows:
LESSON 1: FIGHTING AGAINST THE MIXTURES OF LIGHT AND
DARKNESS
LESSON 2: PRACTICING THE CHRISTIAN VIRTUE OF SUBMISSION
LESSON 3: BALANCING WORK, FAMILY, AND CHURCH
LESSON 4: RESISTING THE TRAP OF DIVORCE
LESSON 5: SECURING THE FUTURE BY RAISING GODLY CHILDREN

These lessons are available at the CBC Supplies Services.

Les leçons de la Semaine de la Famille 2023 sont maintenant disponibles.

Les leçons ont pour but d'interpeller les familles chrétiennes à prêter attention à leur témoignage dans la société. Pour battit une église forte qui sera la conscience morale de la société, nous devons d'abord établir des familles saines.

Les cinq leçons sont structurées comme suit :
LEÇON 1 : LUTTER CONTRE LES AMALGAMES DE LUMIÈRE ET D'OBSCURITÉ
LEÇON 2 : PRATIQUER LA VERTU CHRÉTIENNE DE LA SOUMISSION
LEÇON 3 : CONCILIER LE TRAVAIL, LA FAMILLE ET L'ÉGLISE
LEÇON 4 : RÉSISTER AU PIÈGE DU DIVORCE
LEÇON 5 : ASSURER L'AVENIR EN ÉLEVANT DES ENFANTS PIEUX

Ces leçons sont disponibles au Supplies Services de la CBC.

TCED THIS WEEK
Reflection: l'Enseignant de la Parole qui Enseigne pour Transformer les Vies

"....Si vous voulez devenir un bon enseignant de la Parole, vous devez avant tout développer une passion grandissante et sainte pour les gens qui vous entourent."1

Apprenez à connaître et à aimer les personnes que vous enseignez. Ceux qui n'ont pas un coeur pour les gens qu'ils enseignent ne doivent pas enseigner.

1. David Helm, La Prédication Textuelle (Lupien, Québec : éditions Cruciforme, 2017), 114.

TCED THIS WEEK

REFLECTION: Teach Adults as Adults

I sat recently in an Adult Sunday School Class for men. The teacher was a male youth. He was delegated to teach the class. The teacher taught as if he was in his normal youth class. He was busy telling them what he knows with so much passion and refusing to give them opportunities to express their minds. His illustration had nothing to do with the challenges men go through daily. He ignored the context of his learners. He studied his text, but didn't study the people.

Let me suggest to you some key points necessary for teaching adults as highlighted by Duane H. Elmer in his book Inductive Teaching: Strategy for the Adult Educator:

-Structure learning experience that brings the learners into some kind of cognitive and/or physical interaction with the lesson content
- believe learning can happen when you are not talking
- ask probing, even provoking questions
- guide conversation and discussion without closing it down
- listen for understanding rather than evaluation
- engage in open dialogue
- handle spontaneous issues and questions
- be vulnerable, communicate that you are a trustworthy and safe person
- tolerate ambiguity
- be comfortable with silence
- interact while also communicating acceptance
- be willing to take some risks.

This list is not exhaustive. But it can guide as you teach Adults. It is also important to note that if you are a youth and you have been delegated to teach men, do not teach above your experience.

TCED THIS WEEK

Happy New Month
Keep Serving (1 Cor 4:1-5)

Keep serving God as a faithful servant and steward of God's mysteries. Also remember to be faithful to God (1 Cor 4:2), faithful with His word (2 Timothy 2:15) and also to be faithful with anything your hands are doing (Rom 12:11).

TCED THIS WEEK

We are all victims of an outdated educational system. No one has intentionally sabotage learning in the church. Ineffective teaching methods have been passed down from generation to generation. And we have continued to use them with all good intentions.

Thom and Joanie Schultz, Why Nobody Learns Much of Anything at Church: And How to Fix it (Loveland, Colorado: Group, 1993), 10.

TEE Leadership Seminar @ Cameroon Baptist Theological Seminary Kumba Campus

TCED THIS WEEK

The need for Christian teaching remains as great today as ever. Each generation, each new convert must start with little or no information and begin his walk with Christ afresh. Even growing Christians need reminding and encouraging as they move toward maturity. Our advance technological society has not reduced the need. The disciples of Jesus still require teaching and teachers.

Kenneth O. Ganged and Howard G. Hendricks, eds., _The Christian Educator's Handbook on Teaching_ (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book, 1988), 65.

The commemoration of the Passion of Jesus Christ usually keeps us humble and introduces a sense of solemnity and sobriety. This is because thoughts about suffering and the experience of the same bring us to the end of our resources, and open our eyes to the need of total dependence on God. We just intend to say again that the Passion (the suffering and death of Christ) should raise a passion (zeal) in the church for unstoppable exploits for God.

The Passion of Christ, A Passion for the Church is our latest production.

Copies are available at the CBC Supplies Services. You can contact us and it will be delivered to you.

Bible Teachers' Workshop in Magba Field @ Berean Baptist Church Magba
Going on now. Trust God for the impact of the workshop in this Field.

A Curriculum is supposed to enhance the teaching of the Bible, not obscure it. In chosing a curriculum teachers must care to ask if the curriculum is actually teaching the word of God or simply seeking to meet the objectives of a curriculum writer.
Lawrence O. Richard and Gary J. Bredfeldt

Bible Teachers' Workshop Day 2 @ Faith Baptist Church Lingam, Lingam Field
The Session is on going.

Bible Teachers are students aware. They know that the content counts, but it is students who they teach.

Bible Teachers' Workshop
going on now with more than 100 Bible Teachers
@ Faith Baptist Church Lingam, Lingam Field

Many teachers in our churches are information relayers. The intention of the workshop is to encourage teachers to fall in love with the Bible, get into the Bible with a level of confidence, prepare a lessons and deliver the lesson with confidence.

Pray along with us

TEE Leadership Seminar this week @ CBTS Ndu

This Seminar was to call the attention of the students to beware of the Theological dryness in the Church. They were also invited to engage the Church with theological education.

The aim of the Seminar wasn't to promote a program, but to expose the graduating students to all options of Church based theological education. The Discussion during the Seminar was done within the larger discussion of non formal theological education.

Graduating students left the Seminar determined to make use of every option available as far as Church based theological education is concerned, in order to equip the Saints for the works of ministry.

Bible Teachers' Workshop @ Bayelle CBC Church ended well. All glory to God.

Bible Teachers' Workshop
@ CBC Bayelle- Bamenda
Today February 6, 2023

The Department was invited by the church to impact Sunday School teachers for effective teaching in the church. More than 20 teachers in attendance. God keep doing great things. All glory to Him.
The workshop will continue next week on Monday February 13, 2023.