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THEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF BAPTISM IN THE NAME OF JESUS

The New Testament consistently emphasizes the importance of baptism performed in the name of Jesus Christ. In Acts 2:38, Peter instructs, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Similarly, in Acts 8:16, it is noted that the Samaritans “had been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 10:48 recounts Peter commanding Cornelius and his household to be baptized “in the name of Jesus Christ.” Furthermore, Acts 19:5 describes disciples of John the Baptist being baptized “into the name of the Lord Jesus.”

These passages underscore the apostolic practice of baptizing in the name of Jesus, aligning with Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19 to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” The apostles, guided by the revelation of Jesus’ identity, understood the singular name that encompasses the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to be Jesus. Thus, they baptized in His name, reflecting the unity and authority of the Godhead.

The act of baptism in Jesus’ name signifies the believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Romans 6:3-4 states, “Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” This passage highlights baptism as a means of participating in the redemptive work of Jesus, symbolizing the believer’s cleansing from sin and the commencement of a new life in Him.

THEOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS OF INFANT BAPTISM

Infant baptism is a practice observed in various Christian traditions; however, the New Testament does not provide explicit examples of infants being baptized. Baptism, as depicted in Scripture, is closely associated with personal repentance and faith. In Acts 2:38, Peter calls individuals to “repent and be baptized,” indicating that baptism follows a conscious decision to turn from sin. Similarly, in Acts 8:37, the Ethiopian eunuch professes, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God,” prior to his baptism. These instances suggest that baptism is intended for those capable of personal faith and repentance.

Furthermore, the New Testament emphasizes the necessity of personal decision in matters of salvation. In Romans 10:9, Paul writes, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This confession and belief presuppose an individual’s ability to understand and respond to the gospel message. Since infants are incapable of such understanding and decision-making, they do not meet the criteria for baptism as outlined in Scripture.

Additionally, the practice of infant baptism lacks direct biblical precedent. While some interpret passages like Acts 2:39, which speaks of the promise being “for you and your children,” as supporting infant baptism, this interpretation is debated. The context suggests that the promise is for all who are called by God, not specifically for infants. Therefore, the absence of explicit examples of infant baptism in the New Testament implies that the practice is not biblically mandated.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the New Testament presents baptism as an essential step in the believer’s faith journey, symbolizing repentance, identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, and the reception of the Holy Spirit. Baptism is to be administered in the name of Jesus Christ, reflecting the unity and authority of the Godhead. Infant baptism, however, lacks direct biblical support and does not align with the scriptural pattern of baptism following personal faith and repentance. Therefore, for those seeking to align closely with New Testament teachings, baptism should be administered to individuals who are capable of personal faith and repentance, and it should be performed in the name of Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

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UNTIL THE FULFILLMENT OF THE NATIONS COMES

The grace that we, the people of the nations, now enjoy didn’t originate with us. It was first extended to Israel, but when it was taken from them due to their rejection, it was given to us. Israel, as God’s chosen people, was meant to experience the fullness of God’s salvation, yet this was delayed due to their rejection of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

Israel’s Rejection and God’s Plan for the Nations

Israel had already reached the height of enjoying the blessings of God’s salvation, which was to come through the Messiah, the Savior they had awaited for centuries. Jesus Christ, the promised Savior, came to redeem Israel from sin and oppression. However, they rejected Him as the Messiah, and instead of benefiting from the fruit of their labor and the fulfillment of their promises, they forfeited it.

When Jesus, the Savior of their souls, came, God allowed a spiritual blindness to fall upon them so that they could not recognize Him. This was done for a very specific purpose—to allow the nations (the Gentiles, like you and me) the opportunity to receive grace and salvation. As Paul writes in Romans 11:7-8, “What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded. Just as it is written: ‘God has given them a spirit of stupor, eyes that they should not see and ears that they should not hear, to this very day.”

God’s plan was to extend salvation to the Gentiles, drawing them into His covenant and kingdom. The rejection of Christ by Israel allowed the gospel to spread to the nations.

The Mystery of Israel’s Hardening

This blindness wasn’t permanent. The apostle Paul describes it as a temporary hardening that would last until the “fullness of the Gentiles” comes in. In Romans 11:25, Paul writes:

For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.

This period, during which the Gentiles are called into the kingdom, is a time of God’s mercy for the nations. Israel’s spiritual blindness was, and still is, the means by which salvation was made available to the Gentiles. But this blindness will not last forever. There will come a time when Israel’s eyes will be opened, and the nation will recognize Jesus Christ as the Messiah, the Savior they had once rejected.

The Paradox of Israel’s Rejection

Paul’s writing in Romans 11:11-12 illustrates the paradox of Israel’s rejection. He says,

I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.

Through Israel’s failure to recognize Christ, salvation was extended to the nations. However, Paul also points out that Israel’s rejection was not permanent. The time will come when Israel will be restored and “jealous” of the salvation that the Gentiles now enjoy. Romans 11:12 goes on to say:

Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!

The “fullness” of Israel refers to the time when all of Israel will come to faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior. This will mark the final stage in God’s redemptive plan for humanity. The rejection of Christ by Israel is not the end but part of God’s sovereign plan to bring about the salvation of the nations.

The Olive Tree Parable: The Grafting of the Nations

The apostle Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to illustrate God’s dealings with Israel and the Gentiles. Israel is the cultivated olive tree, while the Gentiles are the wild olive branches. When Israel rejected the Messiah, God cut off some of the natural branches (Israel) and grafted in the wild branches (Gentiles) to partake in the blessings and promises given to Israel. Romans 11:17-18 says:

And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.

This means that the Gentiles have no grounds for pride, as they are grafted into the blessings that originally belonged to Israel. They are partakers of God’s promises but must remain humble and faithful, understanding that they are supported by the root (God’s covenant with Israel). Paul warns that if God did not spare the natural branches (Israel), He may also not spare the Gentiles if they do not remain faithful.

Israel’s Restoration: God’s Promises Are Sure

The time will come when God will restore Israel to Himself. Romans 11:26-27 states:

And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, and He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; for this is My covenant with them, when I take away their sins.

This is a prophecy that speaks of the national repentance of Israel. God will remove their spiritual blindness and bring them to faith in Jesus Christ. This prophecy is confirmed in Zechariah 12:10, where it says,

And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.

This is the moment when Israel will recognize Jesus as their Messiah and mourn for having rejected Him. The Spirit of grace will be poured out upon them, and they will embrace Christ as their Savior.

The End Times: The Rapture and the Tribulation

The restoration of Israel will coincide with the closing of the age for the nations. Before this time, there will be a dramatic event known as the Rapture, where the church (the body of Christ) will be taken to meet the Lord in the air. This will signal the end of God’s dealings with the Gentiles. Following this, a time of tribulation will come upon the earth, during which the Antichrist will rise to power, and God’s wrath will be poured out on a world that has rejected Him.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 speaks about the Rapture:

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an 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.

During this time of tribulation, the Antichrist will deceive many, and the nations that rejected God will face judgment. However, Israel will be restored, and the kingdom of God will be established on earth.

The Urgency of Salvation

As believers in the gospel, we are called to share the message of salvation before the door of grace is closed. Jesus, in Luke 13:24, tells us,

Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.

Now is the time to receive the grace of God. The door of salvation is still open, but it will not remain open forever. 2 Corinthians 6:2 reminds us:

For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

Let us not delay, for the time is near. The Rapture could occur at any moment, and the nations’ opportunity for salvation is running out. God has extended His grace to us—let us receive it with open hearts.

 

 

 

 

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Remember the Goodness of God: A Call to Spiritual Reflection and Endurance

Introduction

One of the greatest spiritual disciplines a believer can cultivate is the intentional remembrance of God’s past faithfulness. Forgetting what God has done opens the door to doubt, disobedience, and discouragement. The Bible repeatedly calls God’s people to “remember” to anchor their present trust in God’s past actions.

1. Forgetfulness: A Spiritual Weakness

The Israelites in the wilderness are a powerful example of what happens when we forget God’s faithfulness. Although they experienced dramatic miracles deliverance from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, manna from heaven they consistently reverted to grumbling and unbelief when facing new challenges.

Psalm 106:13 (ESV)
“But they soon forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel.”

God’s frustration with Israel was not due to their questions, but their forgetfulness and failure to trust Him based on His proven track record. When they faced the Red Sea, instead of recalling His power over Pharaoh, they panicked.

Exodus 14:11-12 (ESV)
“They said to Moses, ‘Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness?’”

The same pattern occurred days later when they lacked water:

Exodus 15:24 (ESV)
“And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, ‘What shall we drink?’”

These complaints revealed a deeper issue: a lack of spiritual memory. Faith that does not remember quickly becomes faith that does not endure.

2. The Theology of “Chewing the Cud”: Clean and Unclean Animals

In Leviticus 11, God distinguished clean animals from unclean. One of the key criteria for a clean land animal was that it must chew the cud and have a split hoof.

Leviticus 11:3 (ESV)
“Whatever parts the hoof and is cloven-footed and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat.”

While these were ceremonial laws given to Israel, they also carry spiritual significance. Animals that chew the cud are those that re-digest their food symbolically, a reminder for believers to meditate on God’s Word and works, not just hear once and forget.

This reflects the discipline of biblical meditation actively revisiting and digesting God’s truth until it becomes part of us.

Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night…”

To fail to meditate is, symbolically, to become spiritually “unclean” forgetful, ungrateful, and vulnerable to deception.

3. Hearing and Doing: The Mirror of the Word

James warns believers not to be passive hearers of the Word, but active doers, lest they forget their true spiritual identity.

James 1:22–25 (ESV)
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.
But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres… he will be blessed in his doing.”

This passage aligns with our earlier principle: spiritual memory leads to spiritual maturity. Forgetting the Word means forgetting your true self in Christ.

4. Practicing Remembrance: A Daily Spiritual Discipline

God knows our human tendency to forget, which is why Scripture repeatedly calls us to “remember” (Deut. 8:2, Ps. 103:2). The antidote to forgetfulness is active remembrance through journaling, testimony, public thanksgiving, and daily meditation on Scripture.

Psalm 103:2 (ESV)
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

You might recall times when God healed you, answered prayers, or protected you from harm. These are not just memories they are spiritual resources for future battles.

5. The Power of the Word in the Heart

Scripture should not only be read it must be cherished, internalized, and obeyed. Solomon and David both emphasized this:

Proverbs 7:2–3 (ESV)
“Keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye;
bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.”

Psalm 119:97–100 (ESV)
“Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.”

Final Encouragement

If you want to endure in faith, you must learn to “chew the cud” spiritually to revisit, reflect, and rejoice in all that God has done for you. Write down His faithfulness. Reflect on His Word. Let it shape your heart and behavior.

When trials come, you will not be shaken because your confidence will rest, not in what you see now, but in what you remember God has already done.

Lamentations 3:21–23 (ESV)
“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Be blessed!

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WHEN TWO OR THREE ARE GATHERED IN HIS NAME

“My brother and I have long held the practice of meeting regularly to share and meditate on the Word of God. To avoid distractions, we often leave busy places and go somewhere quiet where we can focus on Scripture and encourage each other in our Christian journey.

One afternoon around 7 o’clock, as we walked and discussed spiritual matters, we noticed three donkeys on the road ahead not far from us tied together and pulling a cart loaded with grass. A man was guiding them. What caught our attention was that there were three donkeys pulling the cart, when usually only two are used for such a load.

As we approached to get a better look, the donkey in the middle suddenly disappeared, leaving only two donkeys pulling the cart. We were puzzled by this. Then, when they reached a ditch that was difficult to cross because of the heavy load, the man struck the donkeys with a stick to encourage them. Despite the burden, they managed to get the cart across and continued on their way.

This prompted us to ask: What had we really seen? Was it merely animals, or was there a deeper spiritual truth?

Matthew 18:20 (NIV) states:

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

This verse emphasizes the real presence of Jesus when believers come together in His name. The two donkeys symbolize us my brother and me while the third donkey in the middle represents the Lord Jesus Himself.

The load the donkeys carried symbolizes God’s law, which is heavy and challenging to bear alone. When two or more believers come together, God binds them with His yoke (Greek: zugos), a symbol of partnership and shared burden (see Matthew 11:29). Jesus is in the middle to help carry this load, making obedience to God’s commands lighter and more manageable.

Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) beautifully echoes this:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Here, Jesus contrasts the heavy yoke of legalistic religious practices with His gentle, empowering yoke, highlighting the relational and supportive nature of discipleship under Him.

To live a life counter to worldly values is indeed the burden of Christ, which He places upon His followers (Galatians 6:14). This burden is often misunderstood by outsiders as restrictive or heavy, but in reality, it is liberating and light because Christ is with us.

Ministry and service to God carry their own burdens, yet Christ empowers us, especially when we work together (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). This explains why Jesus sent out His disciples two by two (Mark 6:7), emphasizing the importance of companionship and mutual support in spiritual work.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, it is vital to have companions who share your faith. When two or three gather in Jesus’ name, His promise is fulfilled; He is there among them. This spiritual unity forms a bond, a yoke of grace and strength, making it easier to live according to God’s commands than when you are alone.

Gathering with fellow believers invites a unique presence of God. Comfort, encouragement, protection, sharing, and revelation flow from such fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). This also diminishes the enemy’s power to tempt us because we have others standing with us (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) states:

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

May the Lord richly bless you.”

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Don’t Insult the Spirit of Grace

There is a profound danger in taking the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ for granted or treating it lightly. In the Old Testament, when God spoke to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, His glory was so overwhelming and terrifying that the people refused to approach the mountain directly. Their fear was so great that they begged Moses to be their mediator. The mountain was enveloped in fire, smoke, and thunder signs of God’s holy presence and even animals that touched it had to be put to death (Exodus 19:12-13).

This Old Testament imagery is contrasted in the New Testament book of Hebrews, where the author explains that believers today approach a greater and heavenly reality. The author of Hebrews, writing to Jewish Christians familiar with Sinai, presents Mount Sinai as a symbol of the Old Covenant marked by law, fear, and judgment, while Mount Zion represents the New Covenant, characterized by grace, the presence of Christ, and the assembly of the redeemed.

Hebrews 12:18–25 (ESV) says:

“For you have not come to what may be touched, a blazing fire and darkness and gloom and a tempest,
and the sound of a trumpet and a voice whose words made the hearers beg that no further messages be spoken to them.
For they could not endure the order that was given, ‘If even a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned.’
Indeed, so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, ‘I tremble with fear.’
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering,
and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect,
and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.”

This passage underscores a key theological truth: Under the New Covenant, we come not to a physical mountain with terrifying judgment, but to Mount Zion, the heavenly city where God’s presence is mediated through Jesus Christ. This new covenant is established by the blood of Jesus, which speaks better than the blood of Abel a reference to Jesus’ perfect sacrifice that brings true reconciliation, unlike the unjust bloodshed of Abel’s murderer (Genesis 4:8-10).

The author warns believers to not reject the voice of Christ who speaks from heaven, because rejection leads to a judgment far worse than that experienced by those who refused God at Sinai.

This brings us to a vital New Testament exhortation found in Philippians 2:12–13 (ESV):

“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,
for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

Here, “work out your salvation” doesn’t mean earning salvation by works but living it out with reverence and seriousness. The “fear and trembling” reflects awe and respect for God’s holiness and the real spiritual consequences of our choices. Salvation is a divine work initiated and empowered by God Himself, but it requires our continual cooperation and careful obedience.

The grace we receive through Jesus Christ is truly a gift, but it is not a license to sin. Grace is often misunderstood as God’s leniency that allows ongoing sin without consequence. However, Scripture clearly teaches otherwise.

2 Peter 2:20–22 (ESV) warns:

“For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first.
For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy command delivered to them.
What the true proverb says has happened to them: ‘The dog returns to its own vomit,’ and, ‘The sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire.’”

This describes the tragic state of those who have genuinely known Christ and His truth, yet deliberately return to sinful living. Theologians call this “apostasy” a willful turning away from the faith. It is a grave spiritual danger.

Many today claim to live “under grace,” thinking this means God will overlook persistent sin. This is a serious misunderstanding. The devil exploits this false teaching to trap believers into spiritual ruin.

Hebrews 10:26–29 (ESV) delivers a sobering warning:

“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses.
How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?”

To “outrage the Spirit of grace” is to show contempt for the very Spirit who grants us forgiveness and empowers our holy living. This is not a light matter this passage warns of judgment so severe it eclipses Old Testament penalties.

May God bless you.

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Set Your Minds on Things Above, Not on Earthly Things”


Colossians 3:1–2 (NIV):

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

This is not a passive suggestion it is an active pursuit. We are called to prioritize the Kingdom of God in every aspect of our lives.

Seek the Kingdom Like a Hidden Treasure

Just as one searches diligently for treasure or precious metals, we are commanded to pursue divine wisdom with that same intensity. Proverbs 2:3–5 (NIV) says:

“Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.”

Let your daily pursuit be the eternal things not status, wealth, or fleeting pleasures.

Don’t Let Earthly Things Distract You from Eternal Life

The temporary pleasures and trials of this world can become stumbling blocks if we let them. But as Jesus warned in Matthew 16:26 (NIV):

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”

Whether you’re rich or poor, healthy or sick, God calls everyone to focus on eternity.

Examples from Scripture: Earthly Status Is No Excuse

1. Solomon – A Rich Man Focused on God

Though King Solomon was one of the wealthiest men to ever live, he deeply contemplated divine wisdom. In Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NIV), he concludes:

“Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all mankind.”

Solomon reminds us that material wealth is meaningless apart from a relationship with God.

2. Daniel – A Leader Who Prayed Without Ceasing

Daniel held a high political office in Babylon, yet he faithfully prayed three times a day. Daniel 6:10 (NIV):

“Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”

Even at great personal risk, Daniel prioritized his relationship with God above his position.

3. Lazarus – A Poor Man with Heavenly Riches

In Jesus’ parable (Luke 16:19–31), Lazarus was a poor man who had nothing in this life but gained everything in eternity. Luke 16:25 (NIV):

“But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.’”

Lazarus did not let poverty separate him from God he lived as a spiritual pilgrim.

4. The Suffering Saints – Trials Did Not Derail Their Faith

Many of God’s faithful have endured severe trials illness, persecution, or deep personal loss but kept their minds fixed on Heaven. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:17–18 (NIV):

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Final Reflection

So what about you?
Are you seeking the things above? Are your thoughts centered on Christ and His Kingdom? No matter your circumstances wealthy or poor, healthy or sick nothing in this world is worth losing your soul over.

Philippians 3:20 (NIV) reminds us:

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
—Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

God bless you.

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ARE YOU A TRUE SEED OF CHRIST?

Jesus spoke as follows:

Matthew 13:24-30 (NKJV)

24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field;
25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way.
26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared.
27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’
28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’
29 But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them.
30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

Matthew 13:36-43 (NKJV)

36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.”
37 He answered and said to them: “He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man.
38 The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one.
39 The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels.
40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age.
41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness,
42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

Understanding the Parable:

In this parable, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a man who sows good seed in his field. However, while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares (weeds) among the wheat. When the plants grew, the tares also appeared, leading the servants to ask if they should gather them up. The master replied to let both grow together until the harvest, at which time the tares would be separated and burned, and the wheat gathered into the barn.

Theological Insights:

  1. The Field Represents the World:
    The field in the parable symbolizes the world, indicating that the kingdom of heaven is present and active in the world, not confined to a specific place or group. The good seed represents the sons of the kingdom, those who have received the gospel and are living according to God’s will. In contrast, the tares represent those who follow the evil one, living in opposition to God’s purposes .
  2. Coexistence of Good and Evil:
    A central theme of the parable is the coexistence of good and evil in the world. The presence of both wheat and tares growing together reflects the tension between the kingdom of heaven and the forces of darkness in the present age. While the kingdom has been inaugurated through Jesus Christ, it is not yet fully realized. In the interim, evil persists and threatens to undermine God’s work. However, God’s wisdom and timing allow both to grow until the final harvest .
  3. Divine Patience and Judgment:
    The master instructs the servants to let both the wheat and the tares grow together until the harvest. This reflects God’s patience and long-suffering nature, allowing time for repentance and redemption (cf. 2 Peter 3:9). However, the final judgment will come, and there will be a clear distinction between the righteous and the wicked. The tares will be burned in the fire, illustrating the certainty of divine judgment at the end of time .
  4. The Role of Angels:
    The parable emphasizes that the separation of good and evil is not the responsibility of humans but will be carried out by God’s appointed agents the angels. This reflects the principle that ultimate judgment belongs to God alone. While humans may not always discern the difference between the righteous and the wicked, God knows the hearts of all people, and the angels will execute His will perfectly .

May God bless you.

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FIRE DIES WITHOUT WOOD — AND SO DOES SEXUAL IMMORALITY

 

“Without wood a fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.”
— Proverbs 26:20 (ESV)

Just as a flame needs fuel, so sexual sin only thrives while we feed it. Stop supplying its “wood,” and it inevitably dies.

1. God’s Gift of Free Will and Human Responsibility

  • Created in God’s Image:
    We are made “in the image of God” (Gen. 1:27). This includes rationality and freedom—the capacity to choose good or evil.

  • No Coercion Even by God:
    Though omnipotent, God never overrides our will. He honors the freedom He gave us (cf. Deut. 30:19–20).

  • Personal Accountability:
    Scripture repeatedly affirms that each will “give an account” for their own deeds (Rom. 14:12; 2 Cor 5:10). If God forces no one, neither can Satan.

2. The Holy Spirit’s Role: Conviction, Guidance, and Empowerment

  • Conviction of Sin:
    Jesus promised the Spirit would “convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment” (John 16:8). Sexual sin particularly grieves Him (Eph. 4:30).

  • Sanctification Process:
    The Spirit not only convicts but empowers obedience (Gal. 5:16–18). As we yield daily—“walking by the Spirit”—we bear the fruit of self-control (Gal. 5:22–23).

  • Habitual Dependence:
    Our cooperation (synergy) with the Spirit transforms patterns of thought and desire over time (Phil. 2:12–13).

3. How Satan “Fuels” Lust — Four Primary Channels

  1. Pornography & Explicit Media

    • Spiritual Pollution: “Fill your minds with whatever is true, honorable… and think about these things” (Phil. 4:8).

    • Entrapping Snare: “Every excessive and impure urge” is a form of idolatry, enslaving rather than satisfying (Col. 3:5–6).

  2. Corrupt Conversations

    • Grievous Influence: “Bad company ruins good morals” (1 Cor 15:33).

    • Renewing the Mind: We must “take every thought captive to Christ” and replace worldly talk with “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (2 Cor 10:5; Eph. 5:19).

  3. Immodest Apparel

    • Heart Revealed: Clothing often reflects the heart’s motives (Matt. 15:18–20). Provocative dress can foster lust in self and others.

    • Holiness of the Body: Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit—called to honor God in word and deed (1 Cor 6:19–20).

  4. Worldly Music & Entertainment

    • Emotional Manipulation: Music and film shape affections. Paul warns believers not to “grieve” the Spirit by filling hearts with impurity (Eph. 4:29–30).

    • Feeding the Flesh: Constant exposure to sensual stimuli “gives the flesh no opportunity” to be crucified (Gal. 5:24).

4. Theological Foundations for Victory

  • Union with Christ:
    Through faith, we are “crucified with Christ” and “no longer live” but Christ lives in us (Gal. 2:20). Our old lusts are reckoned dead in Him.

  • Putting Off & Putting On:
    Scripture commands “put off” sexual immorality and “put on” compassion, kindness, and self-control (Col. 3:5, 12–14).

  • Armor of God:
    We stand firm by “girding the waist with truth” and “having shod your feet with readiness” from the gospel (Eph. 6:14–15)—practical truths applied to our sexuality.

5. Practical Steps of “Cutting Off the Fuel”

  1. Decisive Break

    • Remove access to pornography, unsubscribing from channels, deleting apps and browser history (Matt. 5:29–30).

  2. Accountability Relationships

    • Confess to trusted brothers/sisters and invite prayer (James 5:16).

  3. Fill & Occupy

    • Replace idle time with Scripture, prayer, and edifying fellowship (Ps. 1:2–3; Acts 2:42).

  4. Mind Renewal

    • Meditate daily on passages about purity (e.g., Phil. 4:8; Psalm 119:9–11).

  5. Reliance on Grace

    • In weakness, cling to Christ’s finished work. His grace is “sufficient” in our struggles (2 Cor 12:9).

Conclusion

“Fire goes out for lack of wood, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases” (Prov. 26:20).

 

Likewise, sexual sin dies when you stop feeding it. Trust the Spirit’s transforming work, take up the armor of truth and purity, and walk in the freedom Christ won for you.

 
 
 
 
 
 

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What Is Wisdom? And Where Can Understanding Be Found?

A Theological Reflection from Job 28 (NIV)

In a world overflowing with information, innovation, and intelligence, the Bible confronts us with a haunting question:

“But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell?” (Job 28:12, NIV).

Job 28 offers a poetic and deeply theological meditation on the mystery of wisdom its elusiveness and divine origin. It contrasts human ability to extract earthly treasures with our utter inability to discover true wisdom through our own effort.

Human Achievement vs. Divine Wisdom

Humankind has learned to mine precious metals, tunnel deep into the earth, and explore space:

“There is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined. Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore. People assault the flinty rock with their hands and lay bare the roots of the mountains.”
Job 28:1–2, 9 (NIV)

Today, this might include exploring space, manipulating DNA, and developing artificial intelligence. But for all our progress, the deepest question remains unanswered:

“But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell? No mortal comprehends its worth; it cannot be found in the land of the living.”
—Job 28:12–13 (NIV)

Even the natural world oceans, skies, mountains offer no answer. Wisdom is beyond nature and inaccessible to human endeavor.

“The deep says, ‘It is not in me’; the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’”
Job 28:14 (NIV)

“It cannot be bought with the finest gold… The price of wisdom is beyond rubies.”
Job 28:15, 18 (NIV)

This reminds us of the doctrine of divine revelation: certain truths cannot be discovered through reason alone but must be revealed by God.

Wisdom Belongs to God Alone

When all of creation and human effort fail to locate wisdom, the text climaxes with a powerful declaration:

“God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells.”
Job 28:23 (NIV)

This reinforces a central theme throughout Scripture: true wisdom is not a product of human inquiry but a gift of divine disclosure. Only God, who sees all and governs all, can reveal wisdom.

What God Revealed to Humanity

God does not leave us guessing. He tells us directly:

“And he said to the human race, ‘The fear of the Lord that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.’”
Job 28:28 (NIV)

This is one of the most theologically significant verses in the Old Testament, echoed throughout the Wisdom Literature:

  • The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)

The “fear of the Lord” refers not to terror, but to reverence, awe, and a life of obedience. It means honoring God as Creator, Lord, and Judge and living in alignment with His will.

Solomon: A Cautionary Example

King Solomon, though famed for his extraordinary wisdom (1 Kings 4:29–34), eventually failed to uphold the wisdom God gave him. He violated God’s commands by marrying foreign wives and worshiping their gods, despite God’s clear instruction:

“The king… must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray.”
Deuteronomy 17:17 (NIV)

His life illustrates that earthly wisdom and knowledge, apart from God, ultimately lead to vanity. Solomon lamented:

“I denied myself nothing my eyes desired… Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done… everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 2:10–11 (NIV)

In the end, Solomon’s final words summarize the truth of Job 28:

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NIV)

Christ: The Fulfillment of God’s Wisdom

The New Testament reveals something even deeper: Jesus Christ is the embodiment of God’s wisdom.

“It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.”
1 Corinthians 1:30 (NIV)

In Christ are hidden “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). He is the wisdom that Job longed for, the wisdom that Solomon misused, and the wisdom that brings eternal life.

So when we ask, “Where is wisdom found?” the ultimate answer is not just in fearing God, but in coming to know Christ, in whom God’s wisdom is perfectly revealed.

God bless you.

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Do Not Remove the Boundary Marks Set by Our Spiritual Fathers

When the Israelites left Egypt for the Promised Land, they were a large nation composed of twelve tribes. To ensure peace and order, God commanded that the land be divided among the tribes with clearly defined boundaries. These boundary markers were not just physical landmarks but divine ordinances ensuring respect for God’s provision and covenant order. Any attempt to move or remove these boundaries was considered a serious offense, invoking God’s curse.

Moses commanded:
“Do not move your neighbor’s boundary stone set up by your ancestors in the inheritance you receive in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
— Deuteronomy 19:14 (NIV)

And again,
“Cursed is anyone who moves their neighbor’s boundary mark.”
— Deuteronomy 27:17 (ESV)
To which the people responded, “Amen.”

This reveals how seriously God viewed the respect of boundaries—not only for property but as a metaphor for divine order and faithfulness.

Spiritual Boundaries in the Church Today

Just as physical boundaries were set for the tribes, spiritual boundaries are set for the Church, which is the spiritual Israel (Galatians 6:16). These boundaries were established by the apostles and prophets under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Word of God serves as these immutable boundaries, defining true doctrine and practice.

Paul explains:
“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.”
— Ephesians 2:20 (ESV)

These foundational teachings form the non-negotiable boundaries of our faith. To cross or change them is to defy God’s revelation.

The Danger of Crossing Spiritual Boundaries

Paul sternly warns:
“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!”
— Galatians 1:8 (NIV)

This is a divine warning that altering the apostolic gospel is a grievous sin. The boundaries are clear and must be respected.

Examples of Boundary Crossing and Theological Reflections

  1. Baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ Alone
    Scripture clearly teaches baptism is to be done only in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins and reception of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; 8:16; 10:48; 19:5). Baptism is a sacramental seal of union with Christ (Romans 6:3-4). Deviating from this apostolic practice breaks the boundary and invalidates the ordinance.

  2. Idolatry and the Second Commandment
    God commands:
    “You shall not make for yourself an idol… You shall not bow down to them or serve them…”
    — Exodus 20:4-5 (ESV)
    Idolatry violates the exclusive worship due to God alone. Veneration of statues or images, even of saints, risks crossing into idolatry, which Scripture forbids and calls abominable.

  3. Order and Gender Roles in the Church
    The apostles, under God’s inspiration, set clear roles within the church. Women are instructed to learn quietly and not to hold teaching authority over men in the gathered assembly (1 Timothy 2:11-12; 1 Corinthians 14:34-35). This reflects God’s created order (1 Timothy 2:13-14) and guards church purity and order. Ignoring these directives crosses established boundaries and disrupts divine order.

  4. Marriage and Monogamy
    Jesus affirmed God’s original design for marriage: one man and one woman united as one flesh (Matthew 19:4-6). Polygamy contradicts this design and thus crosses God’s boundary. The unity of marriage reflects Christ’s relationship to the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32), making fidelity and exclusivity essential.

Contemporary Warnings and Consequences

Many today “remove boundary stones” by teaching false doctrines—denying hell, embracing moral relativism, accepting polygamy, promoting idol worship, or allowing immoral behavior. These teachings are condemned by Scripture and will bring God’s judgment:

“The leaders of Judah have become like those who move boundary stones; I will pour out my wrath on them like water.”
— Hosea 5:10 (NIV)

Final Exhortation

Beloved, remain firmly rooted in the Word of God alone as the source of truth and boundaries. Do not be swayed by teachings that add to or subtract from Scripture (Revelation 22:18-19). Obedience to God’s revealed will keeps us on the path of life and blessing.

May God bless and preserve you as you walk faithfully within His ordained boundaries.

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