Title July 2018

In ancient construction, the cornerstone was the most important stone in a building. It was a large, precisely cut stone placed at the corner where two walls met. This cornerstone set the foundation for the rest of the building; it ensured the structure was square, stable, and strong. Without this cornerstone, the entire building would be unstable and eventually collapse. Imagine a bicycle or motorcycle without a kickstand—it simply cannot stand on its own.

This cornerstone was not just any stone—it was carefully chosen for its strength and durability, often more valuable than all the other stones combined.

The Bible teaches us that this cornerstone symbolizes Jesus Christ.

In Ephesians 2:20-22 (ESV), Paul explains:
“…you are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”

This passage reveals profound theological truths:

• Jesus Christ is the foundational cornerstone of the Church, the spiritual temple where God dwells.

• The apostles and prophets laid the foundation by proclaiming God’s revelation, but Jesus Himself is the essential cornerstone, the one who aligns and holds everything together.

• Believers are like living stones, individually and collectively being built into this temple, the dwelling place of God’s Spirit.

The cornerstone is described as “chief” or “main” (Greek: ἀκρογωνιαίος, akrogōniaios), meaning the most crucial stone that determines the building’s shape and stability. Without Jesus as this chief cornerstone, no other spiritual work or human effort can stand firm.

Each person is a builder of their own life. We all make daily choices that shape our spiritual structure. But to build a life that endures, we must choose the right cornerstone. So, the key question is: What is your cornerstone?

Many choose false cornerstones:

• Some place their trust in Satan, darkness, and occult practices (witchcraft, superstition). These are temporary, deceptive foundations leading to destruction. The Bible calls Satan “the god of this world” who blinds unbelievers (2 Corinthians 4:4), but his kingdom is destined to fall.

• Others trust in wealth and possessions, thinking material things give life meaning. However, Jesus warns against storing treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19-21) because such treasures are temporary.

• Some rely solely on education, talents, or human wisdom, rejecting the gospel of Christ as foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). Yet Scripture shows that true wisdom and salvation come only through Jesus Christ.

The apostle Peter offers a clear contrast between the true cornerstone and rejected stones in 1 Peter 2:4-8 (ESV):
“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house… For it stands in Scripture: ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.’”

He continues:
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.”

This passage highlights:

• Jesus was rejected by many (“the builders”), including religious leaders who failed to recognize Him as the Messiah.

• Despite rejection, God chose Him as the precious cornerstone upon which salvation and the Church rest.

• For those who reject Him, Jesus becomes a “stone of stumbling” — a cause of judgment and downfall.

Building on anything other than Christ is futile and dangerous. People may work hard to build their lives on false foundations, but they will face regret and ruin. The story of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16) illustrates the eternal consequences of trusting earthly wealth rather than God.

Where are you building your life?

• Do you rely on superstition or local traditions when life is hard, ignoring the gospel?

• Do you dismiss the message of Jesus as irrelevant or outdated?

• Are you putting your faith in your talents, education, or material success?

The Bible warns that rejecting Christ’s cornerstone leads to judgment. But for those who receive Him, He offers forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life.

How can you choose the right cornerstone today?

• Repent of trusting false foundations and turn to Jesus Christ in faith.

• Accept that He is the Son of God, who died for your sins and rose again (Romans 10:9-10).

• Be baptized as a public declaration of your faith (Acts 2:38).

• Commit to following Jesus, building your life according to God’s Word and Spirit.

By doing this, you will be part of the living spiritual temple, secure and growing in God’s presence. Jesus Christ will be your firm foundation, unshakable now and forever.

May God bless you as you build your life on the true cornerstone, Jesus Christ.

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In the Old Testament, God’s anger was especially provoked not by the sins of the nations at large but by the sins of His covenant people, Israel. This distinction highlights the holiness and responsibility that comes with being God’s chosen nation. The Ten Commandments, for example, were given exclusively to Israel, underscoring their unique covenant relationship with God (Exodus 20:1-17). They alone were accountable to uphold God’s law perfectly.

The analogy of a husband’s jealousy over his own wife’s faithfulness (Jeremiah 3:14) illustrates God’s righteous jealousy over Israel’s unfaithfulness. God’s covenant love is deep and personal, and when His people commit spiritual adultery by worshipping other gods or living in sin, His jealousy is kindled (Exodus 34:14; Nahum 1:2).

In Ezekiel 8, the prophet is shown visions of Israel’s secret sins — sun worship, idol worship, and defilement in the temple by priests who burned incense to foreign gods (Ezekiel 8:1-18). This illustrates Israel’s spiritual apostasy and the gravity of idolatry, which breaks the first commandment (Deuteronomy 5:7-9). Moreover, Ezekiel 9 reveals God’s judgment: six executioner angels are sent to destroy the wicked, but a man clothed in linen is instructed to mark those who “sigh and groan over all the abominations” (Ezekiel 9:4, ESV). This mark symbolizes divine protection and distinction for the faithful remnant.

This judgment was historically fulfilled during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25), when most of Israel was destroyed or exiled, but a faithful remnant was preserved. Theologically, this speaks to God’s justice and mercy: He punishes sin but preserves those who are faithful and repentant (Romans 11:5).

In the New Testament era, similar themes apply within the Church. The “house of God” (1 Timothy 3:15) is meant to be holy, but many sins—such as idolatry, hypocrisy, false teaching, and moral failure—persist even among believers. For example, the veneration of saints or Mary that borders on worship is criticized in Scripture (1 Timothy 2:5; Colossians 2:18). The presence of false teachers and lukewarm faith is condemned in Revelation 3:14-20, where the church of Laodicea is warned to repent or face rejection by Christ.

The Bible teaches that God’s wrath will be poured out not on those ignorant of Him but on those who claim His name yet persist in unrepentant sin (John 15:6; 2 Peter 2:1-3). This evokes the principle of greater judgment for greater light and opportunity (Luke 12:48).

Before executing judgment, God always distinguishes His faithful by “marking” them. This is symbolic of God’s seal on believers—often identified with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14)—who persevere in holiness and faith. The faithful remnant is protected spiritually and ultimately glorified (Revelation 7:3-4).

The examples of Noah and Lot illustrate this principle: they were righteous individuals who warned of impending judgment and were spared (Genesis 7; 2 Peter 2:7-8). Jesus referenced these days as a parallel for the end times, emphasizing sudden judgment amidst widespread sin (Luke 17:26-30).

Today, the Church is in the era represented by Laodicea, characterized by spiritual complacency and lukewarmness (Revelation 3:14-20). Jesus exhorts believers to repent, to seek true riches refined by fire (spiritual gold), and to walk in holiness (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Believers are called to be “salt and light” in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), living lives set apart from worldly corruption (James 1:27). The “mark” or seal of God on their foreheads signifies a life committed to holiness, sanctification, and perseverance in faith (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).

In summary:

• God’s covenant people bear special responsibility and face serious consequences for sin.

• God’s jealousy is a reflection of His covenant love and holiness.

• God distinguishes and protects the faithful remnant through a spiritual mark.

• Judgment comes on the unrepentant, including those inside the Church who live in hypocrisy.

• The Church today is called to genuine repentance and holiness in the spirit of Laodicea’s warning.

• The “mark” of God symbolizes the sealing presence of the Holy Spirit on believers who persevere.

May we heed these warnings, pursue holiness, and remain faithful, trusting in God’s mercy and justice.

Selected Bible References (English Standard Version – ESV):

• Jeremiah 3:14 — “Return, O faithless sons; I will heal your faithlessness.”

• Ezekiel 8:1-18; 9:1-11 — Visions of Israel’s sin and God’s judgment.

• Revelation 3:14-20 — The message to the Laodicean church.

• 2 Kings 25:8-12 — Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem.

• Romans 11:5 — The faithful remnant.

• Luke 17:26-30 — Days of Noah and Lot as a sign of coming judgment.

• Ephesians 1:13-14 — The seal of the Holy Spirit.

• 1 Timothy 3:15 — The Church as the household of God.

• John 15:6 — Warning about fruitlessness and rejection.

• 2 Peter 2:1-3 — False teachers in the church.

• Matthew 5:13-16 — Salt and light.

• James 1:27 — Pure religion is to keep oneself unstained.

• 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 — God’s sealing of believers.

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In the time of Noah, humanity had fallen into great wickedness, provoking God’s righteous judgment. The flood was God’s means of cleansing the earth from pervasive sin, sparing only Noah and his family who were found righteous before Him. After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah, his descendants, and every living creature, promising never again to destroy the earth by floodwaters. As a sign of this everlasting covenant, God placed the rainbow in the clouds:

“I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth… When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant…”
— Genesis 9:13–15 (ESV)

This covenant demonstrates God’s faithfulness and mercy—despite human sin, God restrains judgment and maintains His creation. The rainbow, with its seven distinct colors, symbolizes the perfection and completeness of God’s promises.

Theological Significance of the Rainbow and the Covenant

Psalm 12:6 (ESV) says:

“The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.”

This alludes to the absolute purity and reliability of God’s Word and covenants. The seven colors of the rainbowpoetically reflect this perfection and the thoroughness of God’s promise. Thus, the rainbow is not merely a natural phenomenon but a visible reminder of God’s unbreakable promise.

This Old Testament covenant finds its fulfillment and ultimate expression in the New Covenant, sealed through the blood of Jesus Christ (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:15). The rainbow’s sign now points to the eternal and unshakeable covenant of grace through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection.

The Covenant’s Protective Power for Believers

As Christians, we enter into this covenant spiritually by faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, water baptism in His name, and being filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). This covenant grants us security in all circumstances—whether in abundance or need, in health or sickness, in trials or triumphs. Romans 8:33–39 (ESV) assures us:

“Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies… Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation… or anything else in all creation? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

This passage underscores that no external or spiritual force can sever us from the covenantal love of God once we are in Christ.

The Journey of Faith and God’s Faithful Presence

Christian life is likened to a journey through varied terrain—mountains, valleys, sunshine, and storms (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). The presence of hardships does not mean God has abandoned us; rather, God walks with us and sustains us through every season. The covenant assures believers of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness amid adversity.

Invisible Deliverance and Spiritual Warfare

Much of God’s protection is unseen. The believer may not notice every instance of divine intervention against spiritual attacks or physical dangers. Scripture teaches that spiritual forces oppose believers (Ephesians 6:12), but God’s covenant provides divine shielding against harm, often without our awareness. This spiritual reality corresponds with the rainbow’s symbolic presence in even the smallest aspects of life.

The Necessity of Being in Christ

Outside the covenant established by the blood of Christ, there is no true security or eternal life (John 14:6). Genuine salvation involves more than a verbal confession; it requires repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name, and a holy life empowered by the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4). Only then does one truly partake in the covenant’s blessings and protection.

Final Encouragement

If you have entered into this covenant, rest assured that God’s promise sustains you through every trial, large or small. The covenant’s sign—the rainbow—is a continual reminder of God’s unfailing commitment to His people.

If you have not yet entered into this covenant through Jesus Christ, know that God calls you to repentance and faith. His mercy and grace are extended to all who believe, inviting you into the eternal safety of His covenant.

May the Lord richly bless and keep you in His covenant love.

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Matthew 24:23–26 and Luke 17:23 warn us that a time is coming when many people will claim that Christ is here or there. Jesus clearly tells us not to believe them. He explains that false Christs and false prophets will appear, performing impressive miracles and signs—so convincing that even true believers (the “elect”) could be misled if they’re not careful.

These warnings from Jesus show us that we’re living in a dangerous spiritual time, especially in these last days. True Christians will need to stay firmly grounded where God has placed them for the safety of their souls. This means holding fast to the truth of God’s Word and refusing to be swayed by the many spiritual distractions and false teachings out there.

Jesus told His disciples that the last days would be similar to the days of Noah. So let’s briefly look at what happened in Noah’s time.

The Lesson from Noah’s Ark

Before the flood, God instructed Noah and his family to enter the ark. When they were safely inside, God Himself shut the door behind them. This act showed that once God places you in a safe spiritual place, you should not leave until He says it’s time.

Later, as the floodwaters started to recede, Noah became curious and opened a window to check if it was safe to leave. He released two birds:

1. A raven, which flew back and forth and never returned.

2. A dove, which returned because it couldn’t find a place to land.

These birds represent two different kinds of spiritual influences:

• The raven symbolizes deceptive spirits. It seemed like everything was fine outside, but it was not. If Noah had trusted the raven’s signal, he might have led his family into danger.

• The dove represents the Holy Spirit. It didn’t land because there was still no life outside. When Noah sent it again seven days later, it came back with a fresh olive leaf, a sign that new life had begun. Only then did Noah know it was truly safe to leave the ark.

How This Applies Today

Just like Noah, God has placed true believers in a “spiritual ark”—that is, His Word. When you are born again, God expects you to remain grounded in the truth of the Bible, not to follow emotional feelings, strange doctrines, or popular teachings that sound good but contradict Scripture.

If you step outside God’s Word, you open yourself up to deceiving spirits—represented by the raven. These spirits try to convince you that everything is okay, that God is no longer judging the world, and that you can live however you like. They tell you:

• “There is peace and prosperity outside.”

• “God understands—you don’t need to change.”

• “The old ways are outdated; God is doing something new.”

But these are lies meant to pull you away from the safety of God’s truth.

On the other hand, the dove (the Holy Spirit) leads gently and truthfully. He doesn’t shout or push, but He brings evidence of life—just like the olive leaf. When it’s truly God’s time to move, the Holy Spirit will show you clearly. He will never lead you to rebel against God’s Word.

The Modern Problem: Another Gospel

Today, many preachers are preaching another Jesus—a Jesus who doesn’t care about sin or obedience. They say:

• “It doesn’t matter how you dress or behave—God only looks at your heart.”

• “You can be saved even if you live like the world.”

• “There are many ways to get to God; Jesus is just one of them.”

But the Bible teaches differently. Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). The apostles preached repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name, and receiving the Holy Spirit(Acts 2:38). But today, many churches focus only on material success and personal comfort—not on holiness, judgment, or heaven and hell.

These modern teachings are like the raven—they mislead people and give them false hope.

The True Work of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit, symbolized by the dove, is not loud or forceful. He won’t tell you to run to one preacher or another. Instead, He confirms truth quietly within you. He brings peace and assurance at the right time.

Luke 17:21 says: “The kingdom of God is not here or there, but it is within you.”

A Final Revival Is Coming

Before the Rapture (the taking away of the true Church), God will send a final, powerful revival of the Holy Spiritaround the world. It will be like the dove bringing the olive branch—a clear sign to God’s people that the time has come.

This final move will bring a special revelation (Revelation 10:4 speaks of seven thunders yet to be revealed). This truth will prepare the Bride of Christ with the faith needed for the Rapture. Remember, Jesus asked in Luke 18:8: “When the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

So, What About You?

Are you truly saved?
Are you being led by the Holy Spirit (the dove) or by deceiving spirits (the raven)?

Romans 8:9 says: “If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.”

Now is the time to repent, give your life to Jesus, and stay grounded in His Word. Don’t follow man-made religion, or emotional teachings, or every preacher who claims to speak for God.

Instead, stay inside the ark of God’s Word, and wait for the Holy Spirit to lead you into all truth.

May God bless you richly.

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“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:1–2, ESV)

May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be forever praised and exalted.

There is a common misconception that God’s pleasure toward a person begins only when they start active ministry—such as preaching, leading others to Christ, praying, or serving in some spiritual capacity. Many assume that God’s favor is contingent on visible works of service. But Scripture reveals a deeper reality.

Our Lord Jesus Himself invites us to learn from Him: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me…” (Matthew 11:29, ESV). When exactly did God declare His pleasure in Jesus? The Gospel of Mark tells us: “And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased’” (Mark 1:11, ESV). Notice this declaration occurred at Jesus’ baptism—before His public ministry began, before miracles were performed, and before preaching commenced.

This truth reveals a foundational theological principle: God’s pleasure is first rooted in a life of obedience and holiness, not merely in visible works or achievements. Jesus, fully God and fully man (John 1:14), lived thirty years of humble obedience in Nazareth, faithfully fulfilling the Father’s will before the commencement of His redemptive mission.

Though the Gospels give scant details about these years, intentional divine silence invites us to seek the character and sanctity cultivated in this hidden period (Luke 2:52). Theologically, this period of preparation demonstrates kenosis—Christ’s self-emptying (Philippians 2:6-8)—where He submitted fully to the Father’s plan and timing.

To understand Jesus’ life, we must consider His genealogy (Matthew 1:1–17). Far from a mere list of names, this lineage reveals God’s providential work through history, fulfilling covenant promises and Messianic prophecy. From Abraham—the father of faith (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4)—to David, the king after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22), each ancestor points to the nature and mission of Jesus.

For example, Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac (Genesis 22) prefigures the sacrificial death of Jesus, the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). King David’s life of trial and worship foreshadows Christ’s suffering and ultimate kingship. David’s psalms, especially Psalm 22, find direct fulfillment in Jesus’ passion (Matthew 27:46).

Jesus’ life before ministry—marked by simplicity, obedience, and holiness—exemplifies righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). Though He “had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2, ESV), He was “holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners” (Hebrews 7:26).

God’s declaration at Jesus’ baptism (“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased”) confirms the Father’s delight in His perfect obedience, reflecting the heart of true worship and the essence of righteousness.

This teaches us that pleasing God is not primarily about ministry titles or visible achievements, but about a consistent life of faith, holiness, and submission to God’s will (Romans 12:1–2).

Do we love God “with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our mind” (Matthew 22:37, ESV) as Jesus did? If so, God is pleased with us even before we visibly serve Him. He desires that our daily lives reflect His holiness, whether in public ministry or private devotion.

Now is the time to decide to live fully for God, doing His will in every circumstance—whether we face rejection or acceptance, blessing or hardship (James 1:2-4).

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17, ESV).

May God empower and bless us all as we seek to live lives that are truly pleasing to Him.

Bible References: English

The Importance of Living a Life Pleasing to God Today

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:1–2, ESV)

May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be forever praised and exalted.

There is a common misconception that God’s pleasure toward a person begins only when they start active ministry—such as preaching, leading others to Christ, praying, or serving in some spiritual capacity. Many assume that God’s favor is contingent on visible works of service. But Scripture reveals a deeper reality.

Our Lord Jesus Himself invites us to learn from Him: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me…” (Matthew 11:29, ESV). When exactly did God declare His pleasure in Jesus? The Gospel of Mark tells us: “And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased’” (Mark 1:11, ESV). Notice this declaration occurred at Jesus’ baptism—before His public ministry began, before miracles were performed, and before preaching commenced.

This truth reveals a foundational theological principle: God’s pleasure is first rooted in a life of obedience and holiness, not merely in visible works or achievements. Jesus, fully God and fully man (John 1:14), lived thirty years of humble obedience in Nazareth, faithfully fulfilling the Father’s will before the commencement of His redemptive mission.

Though the Gospels give scant details about these years, intentional divine silence invites us to seek the character and sanctity cultivated in this hidden period (Luke 2:52). Theologically, this period of preparation demonstrates kenosis—Christ’s self-emptying (Philippians 2:6-8)—where He submitted fully to the Father’s plan and timing.

To understand Jesus’ life, we must consider His genealogy (Matthew 1:1–17). Far from a mere list of names, this lineage reveals God’s providential work through history, fulfilling covenant promises and Messianic prophecy. From Abraham—the father of faith (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4)—to David, the king after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22), each ancestor points to the nature and mission of Jesus.

For example, Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac (Genesis 22) prefigures the sacrificial death of Jesus, the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). King David’s life of trial and worship foreshadows Christ’s suffering and ultimate kingship. David’s psalms, especially Psalm 22, find direct fulfillment in Jesus’ passion (Matthew 27:46).

Jesus’ life before ministry—marked by simplicity, obedience, and holiness—exemplifies righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). Though He “had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2, ESV), He was “holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners” (Hebrews 7:26).

God’s declaration at Jesus’ baptism (“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased”) confirms the Father’s delight in His perfect obedience, reflecting the heart of true worship and the essence of righteousness.

This teaches us that pleasing God is not primarily about ministry titles or visible achievements, but about a consistent life of faith, holiness, and submission to God’s will (Romans 12:1–2).

Do we love God “with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our mind” (Matthew 22:37, ESV) as Jesus did? If so, God is pleased with us even before we visibly serve Him. He desires that our daily lives reflect His holiness, whether in public ministry or private devotion.

Now is the time to decide to live fully for God, doing His will in every circumstance—whether we face rejection or acceptance, blessing or hardship (James 1:2-4).

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17, ESV).

May God empower and bless us all as we seek to live lives that are truly pleasing to Him.

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(Based on Luke 10:25–37 NKJV)

The greatest commandment given by God, as Jesus taught, is to love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind (Luke 10:27). Alongside this, we are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves. This is the foundation of Christian ethics, summarizing the entire Law and the Prophets (Matthew 22:37–40).

However, a lawyer challenged Jesus by asking, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29 NKJV), seeking to define the boundaries of this command. Jesus responded with the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37 NKJV), which profoundly expands our understanding of neighborly love.

The Parable Summary (Luke 10:30–37 NKJV):

A man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho was attacked by robbers who stripped, beat, and left him half dead. A priest and then a Levite—both respected Jewish religious officials—saw the man but passed by without helping.

Then, a Samaritan came along. Jews typically despised Samaritans due to historical, ethnic, and religious divisions (John 4:9). Yet, this Samaritan showed mercy: he bandaged the man’s wounds with oil and wine, lifted him onto his own animal, brought him to an inn, and paid for his care.

Jesus asked which of these was a neighbor to the injured man, and the lawyer answered rightly: the one who showed mercy. Jesus concluded, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37 NKJV).

Theological Reflections

1. Who Is Our Neighbor?
   The parable reveals that a neighbor is not defined by ethnicity, religion, or social status, but by active compassion and mercy (Micah 6:8). The Samaritan’s actions illustrate agape love—selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love—reflecting God’s own nature (1 John 4:7–8).

2. Priest and Levite: Religious Duty vs. Compassion
   The priest and Levite symbolize those who may fulfill religious duties yet fail to live out the heart of the law—loving others (Isaiah 1:11–17). Their avoidance could stem from ritual purity concerns or indifference, showing that religious observance alone does not equate to righteousness (Matthew 23:23).

3. The Samaritan: Crossing Boundaries
   The Samaritan breaks cultural and religious barriers, demonstrating that God’s kingdom transcends human divisions (Galatians 3:28). His willingness to sacrifice time and resources to care for a stranger exemplifies Jesus’ call to love enemies and those unlike us (Matthew 5:43–48).

4. Practical Application for Believers Today
   As followers of Christ, we are called to minister to those hurting and marginalized around us—not just in distant places or grand settings, but among our immediate communities (James 1:27). Loving our neighbor involves tangible acts of mercy, evangelism, and spiritual nurturing (Romans 12:13; Colossians 3:12–14).

5. Spiritual Healing and Growth
   The parable encourages not only physical care but also spiritual restoration. Applying “oil and wine” can symbolize the Holy Spirit’s healing power (Psalm 23:5; Luke 4:18), and taking the wounded man to an inn parallels bringing someone into the body of Christ for discipleship and growth (Ephesians 4:11–16).

Conclusion

The command to “love your neighbor as yourself” is radical and comprehensive. It challenges us to extend God’s mercy beyond boundaries, to be present with those in need, and to embody Christ’s love in practical ways. This parable calls every believer to examine who they consider a neighbor and to reflect God’s heart by acting with compassion and justice.

May God grant us grace to be true neighbors, reflecting His love in every relationship.

References:

• Luke 10:25–37 NKJV

• Matthew 22:37–40 NKJV

• John 4:9 NKJV

• Micah 6:8 NKJV

• 1 John 4:7–8 NKJV

• Isaiah 1:11–17 NKJV

• Matthew 23:23 NKJV

• Galatians 3:28 NKJV

• Matthew 5:43–48 NKJV

• James 1:27 NKJV

• Romans 12:13 NKJV

• Colossians 3:12–14 NKJV

• Psalm 23:5 NKJV

• Luke 4:18 NKJV

• Ephesians 4:11–16 NKJV

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“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
(1 Corinthians 13:11)

As we grow in Christ, our understanding must also mature. Many know and believe in the Gospel of the Cross, which reveals how God saves sinners through Jesus. But the Bible also mentions another gospel—the Everlasting Gospel—which reveals God’s eternal judgment and calls humanity to worship Him. These two gospels serve different purposes and appear in different stages of redemptive history.

1. The Gospel of the Cross – The Message of Salvation (Soteriology)

This gospel is centered on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the salvation of sinners. It is the “power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). It is also known as the Gospel of Grace because it is based on God’s mercy, not human effort.

John 14:6 
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’”

1 Corinthians 1:18 
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

Paul warned against accepting any other gospel besides the true one:

2 Corinthians 11:4 
“For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached… or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!”

This Gospel is preached through human messengers—pastors, missionaries, and believers.

Romans 10:14–15
“How shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?…”

2. The Everlasting Gospel – The Universal Call to Worship (Natural Theology & Eschatology)

The Everlasting Gospel is found in Revelation 14:6–7 and is proclaimed not by people but by an angel, during the period of the end times—just before God’s final judgment is unleashed on the earth.

Revelation 14:6–7
“Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth… saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come…’”

Key theological theme:

• Natural Revelation – This gospel appeals to all creation, urging people to worship the Creator (cf. Romans 1:20).
• Eschatological Judgment – It announces God’s impending wrath, demanding immediate repentance and reverence.

Unlike the Gospel of the Cross, which offers salvation, the Everlasting Gospel issues a final call to worship God in light of imminent judgment. It is a gospel of accountability and divine justice.

3. Comparison of the Two Gospels

4. What About Those Who Never Heard the Gospel? (General Revelation & Accountability)

Some ask: What about those who never heard of Jesus?

Romans 1:19–20 
“…what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them… even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”

This refers to general revelation—God reveals Himself through nature, creation, and conscience. Even those who never heard the name of Jesus still have access to the knowledge of God.

Romans 2:14–15 
“…the Gentiles… show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness…”

This is why no one can claim total ignorance of God’s will. The Everlasting Gospel ensures that God is just in judging every person.

5. God Speaks Through Conscience – Don’t Ignore It

(Sanctification and Moral Theology)

The voice of conscience is part of God’s moral law written in our hearts. When we sin, we feel guilt—not just because society says it’s wrong, but because God’s Spirit convicts us.

• When you lie or steal, your conscience reacts.
• When you commit sexual immorality, something inside says, “This is wrong.”
• When you dress immodestly or act in rebellion, you feel unease.

John 16:8 
“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”

Those who continually ignore that voice become hardened.

Romans 1:28 
“Even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind…”

6. The Door of Grace is Still Open – For Now

(Dispensational Theology & Eschatology)

Right now, we live in the Age of Grace. This is the time for the Gospel of the Cross. But when the Church is raptured, this door will close. The message will shift to the Everlasting Gospel—one of judgment, not salvation.

2 Corinthians 6:2 
“‘Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.’”

Hebrews 3:15 
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”

7. Listen Before It’s Too Late

God is speaking—through His Word, through your conscience, and through His creation. Whether you’ve heard the Gospel of the Cross or are only aware of right and wrong through conscience and nature, God is calling you to repentance and faith in Christ.

If you ignore His voice now, you may only hear Him later in judgment.

Call to Action:

Romans 10:9 
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Come to Jesus today—not because of fear, but because of truth and love. The Gospel of the Cross invites you into eternal life, but the Everlasting Gospel warns that time is running out.

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