Title 2018

The Sin That Caused Satan to Fall

Many of us know what happened before the events in Eden: the devil—Satan—rebelled against God and was cast down from the exalted position he once held. The Bible describes him as “the anointed cherub who covers,” highly honored and exalted on God’s holy mountain, above other angels. He was perfect in beauty, full of wisdom, and blameless in his ways—until the day iniquity was found in him (Ezekiel 28:12–17).

Because of the abundance of gifts, wisdom, and honor surrounding him, Satan’s heart became proud, and he desired to exalt himself to be like God. Isaiah 14:12–14 recounts his ambition:

“How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!
… You said in your heart: ‘I will ascend to heaven;
I will exalt my throne above the stars of God;
… I will make myself like the Most High.’”

Who deceived Satan?

The answer is simple: no one deceived Satan—he deceived himself. Seeing how God had exalted him, he longed for even more. Pride entered his heart, and though he was warned, he refused to turn back. Eventually, he was cast out of heaven, losing his place in God’s glorious presence. Yet God did not destroy him immediately, nor did He strip away his wisdom, beauty, or power—only his heavenly position.

Like a commander removed from his rank but still retaining his military expertise, Satan retained his abilities. Many mistakenly imagine that when Satan fell, he became a grotesque, horned creature incapable of rational thought. In truth, what he lost was the glory of God that once shone through him. Without God’s glory, spiritual death set in (Ezekiel 28:18).

The rise of the kingdom of darkness

By the time God created the first man, Adam, Satan had already established his rebellious kingdom—the kingdom of darkness—set against God’s kingdom (Colossians 1:13). Everything Satan does is in opposition to God’s purposes. Knowing that Adam was given a high position in God’s plan, Satan sought to extend his rebellion by bringing humanity down.

How? By planting in humans the same thought that caused his own fall—the desire to “be like God.”

Genesis 3:4–5 records the serpent’s deception of Eve:

“You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

Satan tempted Adam and Eve with the very ambition that led to his own downfall. Instead of becoming like God, they lost their privileged position and were expelled from Eden—just as Satan had been expelled from heaven.

Satan’s unchanged strategy: Pride

Satan has not changed his tactics. The same spirit of pride that caused him to fall is what he uses to lead humanity astray today. Pride dethroned him, and he knows it is the surest way to bring people down.

Even within the church, Satan works to plant pride:

  • He stirs flattery and excessive praise toward pastors, teachers, or leaders, tempting them to believe they are superior.

  • He manipulates spiritual experiences—such as deliverances—where demons themselves flatter a servant of God: “We fear you! You are the only one who can torment us!” Forgetting that Satan is “the father of lies” (John 8:44), the minister may unknowingly fall into pride.

Jesus warned in Luke 14:11:

“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Guarding against the spirit of pride

We must remember that wealth, beauty, status, talents, spiritual gifts, or ministry should never cause us to think we deserve special honor or that we stand next to God Himself. Pride remains the very weapon Satan uses to cause many to fall.

The Bible warns:

“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” (1 Corinthians 10:12).

The antidote to pride is humility.
1 Peter 5:5–8 commands:

“Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you.
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

A call to repentance

Has the pride of life led you to believe that even salvation itself is not important? Repent today. Turn to Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38). Only in Christ can we resist the schemes of the devil and walk in victory over pride.

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).

Stay humble, stay alert, and walk in the grace of God 

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The Highway of Holiness: A Theological Exploration

 

Isaiah 35:8 (NKJV) proclaims:

“A highway shall be there, and a road, and it shall be called the Highway of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it, but it shall be for others; whoever walks the road, although a fool, shall not go astray.”

This passage offers profound theological insights into the nature of salvation, sanctification, and the exclusive path to God’s presence.


1. The Highway as God’s Provision

The “Highway of Holiness” is not a human invention but a divine provision. It signifies a path established by God for His people to walk in holiness and righteousness. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that salvation and sanctification are works of God’s grace, not human effort (Ephesians 2:8–9).(biblehub.com)


2. Exclusivity of the Path

The passage emphasizes that the unclean shall not pass over this highway. This underscores the necessity of holiness and purity to approach God’s presence. In the New Testament, this exclusivity is affirmed through Christ’s atoning work, which cleanses believers from sin and enables them to walk in holiness (1 John 1:7).(biblehub.com)


3. Christ as the Fulfillment

Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the “Highway of Holiness.” In John 14:6, He declares,(answerthebible.com)

“I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

Christ is the only way to the Father, and through Him, believers are sanctified and empowered to walk in holiness.


4. The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling believers to walk the Highway of Holiness. He convicts of sin, empowers for righteous living, and guides believers in truth (John 16:13). Without the Spirit’s work, walking this path is impossible.


5. Eschatological Hope

The Highway of Holiness points to the eschatological hope of the New Jerusalem, where God’s people will dwell in His presence forever. Revelation 21:27 (NKJV) states,(biblehub.com)

“But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”

This highlights the necessity of holiness for eternal communion with God.


6. Theological Significance

Theologically, the Highway of Holiness represents:Sanctification: The process by which believers are made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit.(biblehub.com)Exclusivity: The path to God is through Christ alone, and it requires holiness.Eschatological Fulfillment: The ultimate destination is eternal life in God’s presence, free from sin and defilement.


7. Application for Believers

Believers are called to walk the Highway of Holiness by:Pursuing Holiness: Striving to live according to God’s standards, empowered by the Holy Spirit.Remaining in Christ: Recognizing that apart from Him, walking this path is impossible (John 15:5).Anticipating the Future: Looking forward to the eternal joy and communion with God in the New Jerusalem.


Be blessed!

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Launch Into the Deep

 


Launch Into the De

Scripture (Luke 5:1-7, NIV):
1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around Him and listening to the word of God.
2 He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets.
3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then He sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets.”
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.


Theological Reflection:

This passage is rich with spiritual significance beyond its literal meaning. Jesus standing by the shore teaching the crowds (v.1) reflects His role as the Divine Teacher, the Logos the Word incarnate (John 1:1-14). The crowd listening to God’s Word illustrates humanity’s hunger for truth, yet it’s from a humble fisherman’s boat that Jesus ministers, symbolizing God’s use of ordinary, even seemingly insignificant, vessels for His extraordinary purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

The “boats” here symbolize our lives, skills, and resources what we depend on for sustenance and livelihood. Jesus choosing an empty boat (v.3) to preach from is deeply symbolic: God often chooses those who feel empty, weak, or exhausted to display His power, highlighting that success comes from divine empowerment, not human effort alone (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Peter’s initial hesitation (v it.5) reflects human doubt and weariness. He had labored all night without success an apt metaphor for those who toil in life or ministry without immediate results. Yet, Peter obeys Jesus’ command to cast the nets again “because You say so.” This is a profound act of faith and submission, echoing Proverbs 3:5-6 trusting God’s guidance even when circumstances seem discouraging.

The resulting miraculous catch (v.6-7) demonstrates the abundant blessing and provision God gives when we cooperate with His will. The nets breaking and boats nearly sinking show that God’s blessings can overflow beyond what we imagine or can contain (Malachi 3:10).


Applying the Lesson Today

If you feel like you’ve worked hard but seen little fruit whether in your career, ministry, or personal lifethis passage reminds you that God sees your efforts and can turn your “empty boat” into a vessel of blessing.The Boat as Your Means of Livelihood: Your skills, education, business, property, or other resources are like Peter’s boat. Even if they seem “empty” or unproductive right now, God can use them in unexpected ways.God Uses the Ordinary: Jesus did not choose the best or busiest boat, but the empty one. Similarly, God often works through those who feel inadequate or overlooked.Obedience Despite Doubt: Like Peter, obeying God’s word “because You say so” is essential. Faith does not always come with visible evidence but trusting God’s promises leads to breakthrough.Overflowing Blessings: The miracle teaches us that God’s blessings can be abundant and overwhelming sometimes requiring others to share in those blessings (Ecclesiaste 4:9-10).


Practical Examples of Applying This Truth:If you have a skill or profession, such as construction, IT, cooking, gardening, or security, offer your talents to serve God’s work without expecting immediate payment. This is your “boat.”If your church building or ministry needs practical help repairing walls, plumbing, electrical systems, or organizing spaces volunteer your skills as an act of worship.If you have unused space, open it for prayer groups, Bible studies, or ministry gatherings.If you have a business or property that seems dormant, surrender it to God’s use and watch for His favor to come.


A Word of Caution

Beware of trying to “buy” blessings through rituals, anointing oil, or salt without surrendering your own resources and life to God. True blessings come from a heart surrendered and obedient to God’s will (James 4:3-8).


Final Encouragement

God says, “Draw near to Me, and I will draw near to you” (James 4:8). If you have been laboring hard with little to show f


May God rich.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LEAVE DENOMINATIONS?

 

John 16:13 (ESV):


“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”

This verse teaches us the ongoing role of the Holy Spirit not just at conversion, but as a continuous guide into God’s truth. Without the Spirit, one cannot truly know God.

Romans 8:9 (ESV):


“You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”

It is impossible to genuinely know and follow God without the Spirit. Yet, many believers receive the Holy Spirit at conversion but later quench Him, often unknowingly. This is evident when people say, “I was once on fire for God, but now I’ve cooled off.” The Bible warns:

1 Thessalonians 5:19 (ESV):


“Do not quench the Spirit.”

Quenching the Spirit means suppressing or resisting His work in our lives. The Spirit is quenched when we resist His leading, especially in growing in truth.


RELIGION AND DENOMINATIONALISM: THE MAIN OBSTACLES TO THE SPIRIT’S WORK

What often causes people to quench the Spirit? The answer is religion and denominationalism.

When Jesus ministered, He found many people bound by their religious systems particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees (Matthew 23). They were diligent in observing God’s law but missed the fuller revelation Christ brought. Their Torah (Law) was incomplete, and they rejected Jesus because He challenged their traditions.

They refused to allow the Holy Spirit to teach them more and lead them into all truth, instead clinging to their religious identity and system.


GOD’S PLAN FOR UNITY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST

In the New Testament era, God has never established denominations. The church is one body, united by:

  • One faith

  • One baptism

  • One Spirit

  • One Lord

  • One God

Ephesians 4:4-6 (ESV):


“There is one body and one Spirit just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call  one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

Yet today, many different denominations exist, often dividing believers over doctrinal preferences and traditions. Paul addressed this problem:

1 Corinthians 1:12-13 (ESV):


“What I mean is that each one of you says, ‘I follow Paul,’ or ‘I follow Apollos,’ or ‘I follow Cephas,’ or ‘I follow Christ.’ Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?”

True Christian unity is in Christ, not in denominational labels.


THE HOLY SPIRIT’S ROLE IN REVEALING TRUTH AND THE DANGER OF DENOMINATIONAL BINDING

When the Holy Spirit wants to lead a believer deeper into truth such as understanding proper baptism by immersion in Jesus’ name (Acts 2:38) the person should prayerfully study Scripture and seek the Spirit’s guidance.

John 3:5 (ESV):


“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

However, many rush to their denominational traditions instead of Scripture. If their tradition rejects what the Spirit reveals, they reject it too, quenching the Spirit’s work.


CALL TO COME OUT OF RELIGION AND DENOMINATIONS

When Scripture says:

Revelation 18:4 (ESV):


“Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, and lest you share in her plagues,”

it calls for a spiritual separation from religious bondage and error, not just physical separation.

2 Corinthians 6:15-18 (ESV):


“What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?
What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.’
Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you,
and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.”

Believers are called to leave behind false teaching and practices tied to denominationalism that hinder spiritual growth.


THE END TIMES AND THE MARK OF THE BEAST

Denominations will be instrumental in forming the “mark of the beast” system in the end times. Jesus described two groups of believers in Matthew 25: the wise and foolish virgins.

The wise virgins, representing Spirit-filled believers, carried extra oil symbolizing the Spirit’s revelation and ongoing guidance so their lamps stayed lit. The foolish virgins, representing those content with religious traditions and lacking the Spirit’s fullness, ran out of oil and were shut out from the feast.


God  bless you


 

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HAVE YOU TRULY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT?

Today, many Christians believe they have received the Holy Spirit simply because they can speak in tongues, prophesy, or perform miracles. However, the Bible reveals that there is a difference between being anointed by the Spirit and being baptized or indwelt by the Spirit. The presence of spiritual gifts does not necessarily mean someone is born again or sealed for eternal life.


⚠️ THE ANOINTING VS. THE INDWELLING

It is possible to be used by the Holy Spirit outwardly—preaching, casting out demons, healing the sick—and yet not be indwelt by Him. Even Judas Iscariot performed miracles along with the other disciples, but he was not saved.

Matthew 10:1
“And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.”

Yet, Jesus said this to the same group:

Acts 1:4-5 
“…wait for the promise of the Father… For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”

This shows that spiritual power can be given before someone is truly baptized with the Holy Spirit. This is a crucial distinction in biblical pneumatology (the study of the Holy Spirit).


SIGNS AND WONDERS DO NOT GUARANTEE SALVATION

Jesus warned us not to rely on miracles as proof of salvation:

Matthew 7:22-23 
“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

This shows that spiritual gifts can function in people who are not truly converted. What matters is relationship with Christ, not mere activity.

Luke 10:20 
“Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”


🧠 VESSELS OF POWER VS. VESSELS OF SALVATION

God can use anyone—even unwilling or unrighteous people—for His purposes.

Numbers 22:28 
“And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee…?”

If God used a donkey, He can use anyone. This is instrumental use, not relational indwelling.

Many people today are used by God but are not known by God.

Romans 11:29 
“For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.”

This verse teaches that God’s gifts are irrevocable, meaning someone may retain spiritual gifts even if they fall away from the truth. This reinforces the need to examine one’s spiritual condition, not just gifting.


🔥 TRUE EVIDENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: A TRANSFORMED LIFE

The primary sign of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling is not tongues, prophecy, or visions—but a changed life.

2 Corinthians 5:17 
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Romans 8:15-16
“For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption… The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”

A believer who has received the Holy Spirit walks in obedience, grows in Christlikeness, and seeks holiness.

Galatians 5:22-23 
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…”

The fruit—not the gifts—are the true marks of spiritual maturity and indwelling.


IS SPEAKING IN TONGUES THE ONLY EVIDENCE?

Some denominations teach that tongues are the only proof of receiving the Holy Spirit, but Scripture disagrees.

1 Corinthians 12:29-30 
“Are all apostles? are all prophets?… do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?”

The answer is no. The Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different members of the Body of Christ. Tongues may occur, especially at initial baptism in the Spirit (Acts 2:4), but they are not a requirement or the only sign of His presence.


💡 HOW TO RECEIVE THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is not earned by works, religious acts, or spiritual displays. He is given to those who believe in Jesus, repent of their sins, and ask with a sincere heart.

Acts 2:38-39 
“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”

Luke 11:13 
“…how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”

Receiving the Spirit requires a repentant heart, genuine faith, and submission to Christ.


🔐 SEALED FOR SALVATION

The Holy Spirit is God’s seal upon the believer—a mark of ownership and guarantee of redemption.

Ephesians 4:30 
“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

Romans 8:9 
“Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.”

This verse confirms the theology of regeneration: without the Holy Spirit, there is no salvation.


EXAMINE YOURSELF

Ask yourself honestly:

  • Have I truly repented of sin?
  • Do I walk in holiness and truth?
  • Has my life been transformed by Christ?
  • Is the fruit of the Spirit growing in me?

2 Corinthians 13:5 
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves…”

Don’t settle for spiritual activity. Seek true transformation.


🙏 DON’T BE DECEIVED BY SIGNS

Miracles, tongues, and power may be present in someone’s life, but that doesn’t always mean they are truly saved. God can use anyone, but only those who are born again and filled with the Holy Spirit will enter His Kingdom.

Let us not seek just the power of the Spirit—but the presence, the seal, and the indwelling that leads to eternal life.

John 3:5 
“Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.”

Have you truly received the Holy Spirit?

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The Role of Women in the Church

What is the proper role of a woman in the church? Can she serve as a pastor or bishop?

The Apostle Paul clearly instructs the church regarding women’s role in public worship and leadership:

“The women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.”
(1 Corinthians 14:34-35)

This passage reflects the created order God established, where women are not to assume authoritative teaching or governance roles over men in the gathered church. This order is not cultural but rooted in divine creation and God’s design for the church’s harmony (1 Corinthians 11:3).

Paul expands on this divine order in Ephesians:

“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, His body, and is Himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.”
(Ephesians 5:22-24)

This analogy demonstrates the spiritual representation of the wife to the church, illustrating mutual submission with distinct roles. The husband leads lovingly as Christ leads the church, and the wife follows as the church follows Christ.

Context on Authority and Creation

Paul’s instruction in 1 Timothy clarifies the reason for this order:

“Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor.”
(1 Timothy 2:11-14)

This passage grounds the church’s leadership structure in the creation narrative (Genesis 2-3), showing that God’s ordering of authority precedes the Fall and is tied to the roles He assigned at creation. Eve’s deception led to the Fall, but this does not diminish her worth or dignity—rather, it explains the reason for leadership roles as an expression of God’s sovereign order.

Spiritual Gifts vs. Church Offices

It is important to distinguish between spiritual gifts and church offices. Spiritual gifts (charismata) are diverse and given to both men and women for the edification of the church:

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
(1 Corinthians 12:4-7)

These gifts include prophecy, healing, speaking in tongues, and teaching gifts that edify the body but do not necessarily carry authoritative leadership over the church.

However, the fivefold ministry offices listed in Ephesians 4:11 —

“And He gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers…”
(Ephesians 4:11)

— are leadership roles responsible for building up the church’s structure and doctrine. Historically and biblically, these offices have been filled by men, reflecting God’s established order.

Consequences of Disobedience

Jesus Himself warned against false assurance based on miraculous works apart from obedience to God’s will:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”
(Matthew 7:21-23)

Thus, spiritual gifts or miracles alone do not validate a ministry outside God’s ordained order.


Summary

  • Women are called to learn, grow, and exercise spiritual gifts within God’s design.
  • Leadership offices (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, teacher) are biblically reserved for men.
  • Submission to God’s order reflects faithfulness and harmony in the church and family.
  • Spiritual gifts such as prophecy, healing, and tongues are available to both genders for edification.
  • True ministry success is measured by obedience to God’s Word, not by miracles or popularity.

May God bless your understanding and service according to His Word.

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THE RAPTURE

It is widely known that the rapture will be a sudden event— in the twinkling of an eye, millions of people will disappear, panic will spread across the earth, planes will crash, accidents will happen everywhere, and peace will vanish instantly. People will wail and mourn as the Antichrist rises from the abyss to bring destruction across the world.

But is this truly how the rapture will happen according to Scripture?

Let us read:

1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 – “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.”

Examining this passage, we see that the coming of the Lord Jesus for His Church involves three distinct stages:

  1. The Lord will descend with a SHOUT

  2. The Lord will descend with the VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL

  3. The Lord will descend with the TRUMPET OF GOD

This indicates that the rapture is not simply an instantaneous, chaotic event as commonly imagined. Instead, Scripture presents a sequence of stages that will unfold as the time approaches. Let us examine these three stages in detail.


Stage One: The SHOUT

The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 4:16, “the Lord will descend from heaven with a shout.”
The word “shout” here does not refer to an invitation to a social gathering, but rather a powerful commanding cry—a jubilant proclamation announcing the arrival of someone of great importance, such as a king or a bridegroom. It serves to awaken and prepare those who are waiting so that the event does not catch them unaware.

In the King James Version, it reads:

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a SHOUT…”

The term “shout” here implies a commanding call, awakening and alerting the intended hearers to prepare for the imminent event.

Jesus illustrated this in the parable of the ten virgins:

Matthew 25:1–6“At midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’”

At midnight all the virgins were asleep, their strength waning as they waited for the bridegroom. Suddenly, there was a loud cry awakening them: “Behold! The bridegroom is coming!” This cry parallels the “shout” of 1 Thessalonians 4:16—a spiritual awakening that rouses the Bride of Christ to prepare her lamp (symbolizing her life) and ensure she has oil (the Holy Spirit, along with spiritual revelation) in readiness.

The Historical Fulfillment of the Shout

Historically, the Church endured a long period of spiritual darkness—the so-called “Dark Ages”—as false doctrines and compromise infiltrated Christianity. The Bride was asleep. But as the time for Christ’s return drew nearer, God sent a series of revivals to awaken the Church:

  • Martin Luther (the fifth church age messenger, Revelation 3:1–6) brought the message of justification by faith, calling believers out of the false traditions of the medieval church.

  • John Wesley (the sixth church age messenger, Revelation 3:7–13) followed with the message of sanctification and holiness, further restoring the Bride’s readiness.

  • Finally, in the Laodicean age (Revelation 3:14–22), the seventh church age messenger, William Branham, sounded the final, loudest call, proclaiming, “Behold, the Bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet Him!”

This “shout” represents the end-time awakening—a call to holiness and separation from religious systems (Revelation 18:4: “Come out of her, my people…”), urging believers to trim their lamps and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Jesus warned in Luke 12:35–37:

“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching.”

Those who heed the shout will progress to the next stage. Those who ignore it—remaining content in religious forms without the Spirit—will find themselves unprepared, like the foolish virgins whose lamps went out.


Stage Two: The VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL

The second phase, mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:16, says: “the Lord will descend with the voice of the archangel.”

Who is this Archangel? Scripture identifies this mighty messenger as none other than the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. In Revelation 10:1–7, John saw:

“…another mighty angel coming down from heaven, clothed with a cloud… He had in his hand a little book open… and he cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roars. When he cried out, seven thunders uttered their voices… In the days of the sounding of the seventh angel… the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.”

The “mighty angel” holds the little book open, which represents the Book of Redemption—sealed with seven seals in Revelation 5, now fully opened. His roaring voice, like a lion’s, releases seven thunders, mysteries that John was forbidden to write (Revelation 10:4). These are end-time revelations given exclusively to the Bride, imparting the perfect faith needed to be translated.

Jesus is called the “Messenger of the Covenant” in Malachi 3:1:

“…the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple, even the Messenger of the covenant…”

This voice will not be heard by the entire world—only by the wise virgins who responded to the first stage (the Shout) and have prepared their lamps with oil.

The “voice of the Archangel” thus represents the final unveiling of divine mysteries, equipping the Bride with the rapturing faith needed for her transformation (Romans 10:17: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”).


Stage Three: The TRUMPET OF GOD

Finally, 1 Thessalonians 4:16 declares that the Lord will descend with the “trumpet of God.”
In Scripture, a trumpet signifies a summons to gather—for Israel, it was a call to assembly, warfare, or a holy convocation (Numbers 10:1–4).

At this last trumpet, “the dead in Christ will rise first” (1 Corinthians 15:51–52). Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. This is the final stage of the rapture, when mortality is “swallowed up by life” (2 Corinthians 5:4).

The trumpet signals the resurrection and translation of the saints—the completion of the redemption purchased by Christ.


A Final Warning

We are living in the separation hour:

  • The wise virgins are trimming their lamps, filled with oil and extra oil (the Spirit and fresh revelation).

  • The foolish virgins continue with empty lamps, distracted by traditions and worldliness.

Jesus warned:

Matthew 24:42 – “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”

Those who reject the Shout will miss the Voice, and without the Voice, they will never hear the Trumpet. Today is the time to respond—by receiving the Holy Spirit, walking in holiness, and living according to the revealed Word of God.

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Understanding Daniel’s Seventy (70) Weeks

The prophecy of Daniel’s seventy weeks (Daniel 9:24-27) is a foundational eschatological timeline focused on God’s plan for Israel and the coming Messiah. Each “week” represents seven years (a prophetic “week” = 7 years), making seventy weeks equal to 490 years (70 × 7 = 490).


Significance of the 70 Weeks

1. Divine Purpose for Israel:
God’s decree in Daniel 9:24 shows that these 490 years were appointed “to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.” This emphasizes God’s sovereign plan to redeem His covenant people, the Jews, and fulfill messianic prophecy.

2. The Role of the Messiah:
Daniel 9:25-26 outlines the coming of the “Anointed One” (Messiah), who will appear after the first 7 weeks plus 62 weeks (69 weeks total). The Messiah’s death (“cut off”) is prophesied, which Christian theology identifies as the crucifixion of Jesus Christ (cf. Isaiah 53:5; Acts 3:18).


Breakdown of the Timeline

First 7 Weeks (49 years):
The rebuilding of Jerusalem and its streets, including the Second Temple, occurred under Persian decree (Ezra 6:15). This period was marked by hardship but fulfilled God’s promise to restore Jerusalem Daniel 9:25

“Seven ‘sevens’ and sixty-two ‘sevens’; it will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.”.

Next 62 Weeks (434 years):
This period leads up to the appearance of the Messiah. The culmination is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, which theology teaches is the atoning sacrifice for humanity’s sin (Hebrews 9:26; Romans 5:8).

Final Week (7 years):
The last week represents a future period commonly associated with the end times and the great tribulation (Revelation 11:3-6; Matthew 24:15-21). The Antichrist (the “prince who is to come” in Daniel 9:27) will confirm a covenant with Israel for seven years, but break it halfway through, stopping temple sacrifices (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4).


Clarifications and Misunderstandings

  • The prophecy explicitly says the Messiah will be killed after the 62 weeks, not halfway through the final week (Daniel 9:26: “After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death…”).
  • The ruler who destroys Jerusalem (AD 70) is the Antichrist figure who comes after the Messiah’s death, not the Messiah himself (Luke 21:20-24).
  • The “abomination that causes desolation” (Daniel 9:27) points to the desecration of the temple during the tribulation (Matthew 24:15).

Application for Believers

Biblical Authority: Always test teachings against Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The prophet William Branham emphasized that the Bible is the ultimate authority and nothing should contradict it.

God’s Faithfulness: The timeline demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His promises and prophetic Word.

Hope in Christ: The prophecy centers on Jesus as the Messiah who brings redemption and justice.

Eschatological Vigilance: Believers are called to remain watchful and steadfast as the final week approaches (Matthew 24:42; 2 Peter 1:10:

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election…”).


May this clearer understanding encourage you to deepen your study of God’s prophetic Word and strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ.

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THE GOSPEL THROUGH THE LENS OF TECHNOLOGY

How Modern Inventions Are Echoing the Message of Jesus’ Return

God has always communicated with His people in different ways throughout history. While His character remains constant (Malachi 3:6), His methods often adapt to the generation He’s speaking to. In every age, God raises a message specific to that time—a message that must be spiritually discerned.

For instance, the message given to the early church was not exactly the same as that given in the time of Israel’s wandering in the wilderness. Likewise, the message for the last-day Church differs in focus and urgency.


Missing the Message of the Hour

When Jesus came in the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4), many religious leaders—Pharisees, Sadducees, and teachers of the Law—could not accept Him because they were stuck in past revelations. They honored Moses’ law, yet missed the One Moses spoke about.

Deuteronomy 18:15
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear.”

Jesus was that Prophet. Yet because they didn’t recognize the message of their hour, they clung to traditions and rejected the very Messiah they had been waiting for (John 1:11).


HOW GOD SPEAKS TODAY: LESSONS FROM TECHNOLOGY

Today, in this final generation, God is still speaking—through Scripture, through the Holy Spirit, through creation (Psalm 19:1–2), and even through technology. As strange as that may sound, if we look closer, we’ll see that the technological advancements of our day preach the Gospel in powerful symbolic ways.


1. MOBILE PHONES & DIGITAL COMMUNICATION

Symbol of Instant Communication With God

Modern technology enables instant communication. Through a smartphone, you can speak face-to-face with someone across the world in real-time. Global news spreads in seconds. The world is, as people say, “a global village.”

This reflects a spiritual reality: in these last days, believers must have a direct and instant line of communication with God through the Holy Spirit.

John 16:13 
“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth…”

Just as you can’t function well in today’s society without a phone, you can’t navigate these deceptive last days without the Holy Spirit. The world is full of noise, misinformation, and false teachings. Only those led by the Spirit can remain anchored in the truth.

Jeremiah 31:33–34 
“I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts… they shall all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them…”

This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Covenant through the indwelling Holy Spirit (see also Hebrews 8:10–11). In this age, we are no longer dependent on priests or prophets to access God’s voice—we can hear directly from Him.


False Prophets and the Danger of Disconnection

In Matthew 24, Jesus warned of a time when deception would be so strong that even the elect could be misled.

Matthew 24:24–25 
“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand.”

In such times, having the Holy Spirit is not optional—it’s essential. The Spirit is both our teacher and alarm system (1 John 2:27).


Spiritual Application: Do You Have “Network Access”?

Just like a phone without a SIM card or network connection is useless for calls, so is a person without the Spirit—disconnected from divine instruction. Jesus said:

John 10:27 
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

If we don’t recognize His voice now, how will we respond when He calls us to meet Him in the air?


2. AIRPLANES & SPACE TRAVEL

Symbol of the Rapture and Preparedness

Air travel was once thought impossible. Today, humans fly not only across continents but into space. This mirrors a great spiritual event to come: the Rapture—when Jesus returns to take His Bride.

1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 
“Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air…”

Air travel teaches us a lesson about preparation. You can’t just show up at the airport and expect to fly. You need:

  • A ticket

  • Advance booking

  • Timely arrival for check-in

Likewise, your ticket to the Rapture is the seal of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 1:13–14 
“You were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance…”

If you don’t have the Holy Spirit, you haven’t “booked” your seat in the flight of the saints. Just like airlines won’t accept late or unregistered passengers, neither will the heavenly flight include those who aren’t ready.


What About You?

You wouldn’t dream of going without your phone in today’s world—yet many go days, weeks, or months without prayer, without the Word, and without seeking the Spirit. Do you think you’ll be ready for Jesus’ return with that kind of neglect?

Romans 8:9 
“…If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.”


THE FINAL CALL: REPENTANCE & READINESS

God has allowed these technological breakthroughs in our generation for a reason: to give us a living sermon. The smartphone preaches. The airplane preaches. The internet preaches. Are we listening?

Many people today are distracted by worldliness, immorality, spiritual laziness, and compromise. The Bible warns that such things grieve the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) and hinder fellowship with God.

2 Corinthians 6:14 
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers… What partnership has righteousness with lawlessness?”

If your closest friends are ungodly, if your lifestyle mirrors the world, and if your speech is full of gossip or vulgarity—how will the Holy Spirit live within you?

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit…?”

James 4:4 
“…Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?”


THE TIME IS NOW

You’ve heard the Gospel before. But hearing isn’t enough.

Romans 13:11 
“…It is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.”

You won’t be able to blame God if you’re left behind. Everything around you—even your phone—is testifying to the urgency of the hour.

There are true, Spirit-filled believers living in this very generation, overcoming sin and walking in holiness—and they will judge the world (1 Corinthians 6:2). If they can do it, so can you.


GET YOUR TICKET WHILE SEATS LAST

Jesus is not the one we’re waiting for. He is waiting for us. The spiritual airplane is ready. The final boarding call is near. But only those with the Holy Spirit will hear it.

Revelation 22:17 
“And the Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’…”

Don’t miss the flight. Don’t live offline from God. Don’t wait until the gates are closed.


Seek the Holy Spirit. He is the seal, the signal, the ticket, and the voice that will guide you safely home.

God bless you.

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