Title 2018

A Call to True Discipleship

When Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples, heard from the others that Jesus had risen from the dead, he made a bold statement:

John 20:25 (ESV)

Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.

At first glance, we may assume Thomas was doubting without reason. But his desire wasn’t to mock—he needed evidence that the Jesus who appeared was the same Jesus who was crucified. He wanted confirmation of the resurrected Christ, the One who bore the marks of suffering and death.

When Jesus later appeared to him and showed him the scars, Thomas believed and proclaimed:

John 20:28 (ESV)

My Lord and my God!

This confession was one of the strongest declarations of Jesus’ divinity in the New Testament. But notice what led Thomas to that confession: it was the wounds of Jesus—the marks of His suffering.

The Cost of Following Jesus

Jesus makes the cost of discipleship crystal clear:

Luke 9:23 (ESV)

If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

This verse outlines the daily discipline of a believer:

Deny self – Abandon personal desires and submit to God’s will.

Take up your cross – Be willing to suffer and even die if necessary.

Follow Jesus – Imitate His life, character, and mission.

The “cross” is not a symbol of inconvenience. In the Roman world, the cross was an instrument of death. To carry your cross is to embrace a life of sacrificial obedience, even to the point of suffering for righteousness’ sake.

What Is the Cross in the Life of a Believer?

The cross represents trials, persecution, rejection, and loss that a Christian endures because of their faith.

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV)

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

Persecution is not a probability—it is a promise. The moment you decide to live for Christ, a spiritual war begins. The enemy resists your every step, and the world will not applaud your transformation.

Many new believers are surprised when opposition arises after they commit to Christ. They might experience:

Family rejection (Matthew 10:34–36)

Financial hardship

Loss of friends or reputation

Spiritual battles

Slander or mockery

Jesus didn’t hide this reality. He told His followers plainly:

John 15:18–20 (ESV)

If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you… If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.

Testing of Faith Is Inevitable

Every genuine follower of Christ will have their faith tested.

1 Peter 4:12–14 (ESV)

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you… But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings… If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

These trials are not punishments—they are refining fires that produce spiritual maturity:

James 1:2–4 (ESV)

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness…

Romans 5:3–5 explains this further, teaching that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope. God uses trials to shape us into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

Biblical Examples of the Wilderness Journey

The Israelites did not enter the Promised Land immediately after leaving Egypt. God led them through the wilderness to test, humble, and teach them.

Deuteronomy 8:2 (ESV)

And you shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart…

Likewise, God allows seasons of dryness, difficulty, or delay—not to destroy us—but to prepare us for what He has promised. A Christian’s life will often go through a wilderness before entering Canaan (the fullness of God’s promises).

The Marks of a True Disciple

If we claim to follow Jesus, our lives must bear marks of His suffering—not physical wounds, but real, observable signs of sacrifice and obedience. Paul understood this deeply.

Galatians 6:17 (ESV)

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

What about us?

Where have you suffered because of your faith?

Where have you been mocked, rejected, or persecuted?

What have you lost for the sake of obedience to Christ?

If there are no scars, we must ask ourselves honestly: Are we truly carrying the cross? Or have we settled for a comfortable Christianity that costs us nothing?

Self-Examination: Religion or Relationship?

Paul encourages us:

2 Corinthians 13:5 (ESV)

Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves…

Are you following Jesus—or just a tradition? Have you truly left Egypt (the world) or are you simply singing hymns from the comfort of Pharaoh’s court?

Jesus warned that many would think they followed Him, but He would say, “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:21–23). The fruit of our lives must reflect the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.

Hope in the Midst of Suffering

Let us not forget that suffering is not the end of the story.

1 Peter 5:10 (ESV)

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace… will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

God is working through your pain for a glorious purpose. You may be rejected now, but you will be crowned later. The cross always comes before the crown.

Final Charge

So dear brother, dear sister:

If you have taken up your cross—stay the course.

If you’re being mocked or hated—rejoice.

If you feel discouraged—be strengthened.

You are walking the narrow path that leads to life.

And if you realize today that you’ve been wearing the name of Christ without carrying His cross—there’s grace for you. Repent, and follow Him wholeheartedly.

Let your life declare, like Thomas did—not out of doubt but from a place of deep conviction:

“My Lord and my God!”

Be blessed and strengthened in Christ.

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The Bible frequently compares believers to trees that bear fruit, emphasizing that each of us is expected to produce spiritual fruit for God. Jesus said, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples” (John 15:8). However, Scripture also warns us that trees which do not bear fruit will be cut down, just as Jesus illustrated in Luke 13:6-9:

6 “He told this parable: A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came looking for fruit on it but found none.

7 So he said to the gardener, ‘Look, for three years I’ve come looking for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down. Why should it waste the soil?’

8 But the gardener answered him, ‘Sir, leave it alone for one more year. I’ll dig around it and fertilize it.

9 If it bears fruit next year, great! But if not, then cut it down.’

In this parable, the fig tree represents individuals who have been given ample time to repent and produce spiritual fruit. The vineyard owner symbolizes God the Father, while the gardener reflects the role of Jesus Christ, who intercedes on our behalf, asking for more time and grace. The fig tree was given three years to bear fruit, but it failed. The owner wanted it cut down, but the gardener requested a one-year extension, a year of grace.

This teaches us a profound lesson: God has graciously given us time to repent and bear fruit for His Kingdom. The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

God’s grace allows us time to change, but that grace is not unlimited. The Bible clearly warns that we are not guaranteed tomorrow: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes” (James 4:13-14).

The question, then, is: since you first heard the Word of God, have you borne fruit for Him? Or have you delayed, thinking, “Not yet, I still have time”? It is crucial to remember that today is the day of salvation, and if you continue to ignore God’s call, you may be living in an extended period of grace without realizing it. Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”

If you are living in this extended grace period, do not delay. 2 Corinthians 6:2 reminds us, “For he says, ‘In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

If it has already been a long time since you first heard the gospel and there is no change in your life, you are in danger of being cut off, just like that fig tree. Romans 11:22 warns, “Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.” You may be resisting the Holy Spirit, hardening your heart, and disregarding the conviction that God is placing in your conscience.

It is only by God’s mercy that you are still alive today and still have the opportunity to repent. Romans 2:4 reminds us that “God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance.” But that kindness will not last forever. There will come a time when God’s voice calling you to repentance will be silenced, and you will be left to your own devices.

If you resist His call for too long, you may experience spiritual death. In Hebrews 6:4-6, we read: “For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” This passage highlights the danger of rejecting God’s grace after experiencing it. If you harden your heart too much, there may come a point when you can no longer respond to His call.

Consider what happens to those who persist in sin without repentance. Even if you fall into sin—whether it’s drunkenness, immorality, or selfish indulgence—it won’t bother you. You’ll start dismissing the things of God, and the gospel will seem irrelevant to you. The more you resist, the harder your heart becomes, until eventually, you will be spiritually dead, unable to recognize the need for salvation.

The Bible speaks of those who refuse to repent as being spiritually dead. Ephesians 2:1-3 says, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.” Without repentance, we remain dead in sin, separated from God.

Ecclesiastes 11:3 says, “If a tree falls to the south or to the north, wherever it falls, there it will lie.” Once a tree is cut down, it cannot be moved. If you die in your sin, there will be no turning back. Hebrews 9:27 reminds us, “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.”

• If you are cut down and fall into drunkenness, you will remain there until hell.
• If you are cut down and fall into sexual immorality, you will stay there until the day of judgment.
• If you are cut down and fall into a life of indulgence, you will stay there until hell.

Therefore, the Bible encourages us to bear fruit while we still can. God has given us grace, and we are called to respond by living lives that reflect His goodness and holiness. Matthew 3:8 calls us to “Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.” Let your life reflect the transformation that Christ has made in your heart.

Proverbs 28:13 reminds us, “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.” Repentance leads to life, while continuing in sin leads to destruction.

Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Our lives are to be lived in a way that glorifies God and produces lasting fruit for His Kingdom.

Revelation 3:19 says, “Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.

Let us use the grace God has given us wisely, by turning to Him, bearing fruit, and living in His will. Today is the day of salvation—don’t delay.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

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As we know, there are three stages in human life: Childhood, Youth, and Old Age. The stage at which a person is most likely to make the pivotal decisions about the future of their life is Youth. The Bible says in Jeremiah 21:8b: “…Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.” These two paths are placed before a person when they reach the stage of youth. This is when wisdom and God’s guidance are absolutely necessary to choose the right path.

In Scripture, we can observe two distinct examples of young men who made key decisions that shaped their future. By reflecting on their stories, we can gain insights into how the choices made in youth can impact not just the present, but eternity.

THE FIRST YOUTH: THE RICH YOUNG RULER

Matthew 19:16-22 (NKJV)

“16 Now behold, one came and said to Him, ‘Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?’

17 So He said to him, ‘Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.’

18 He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’ Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not bear false witness,

19 Honor your father and mother, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’

20 The young man said to Him, ‘All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?’

21 Jesus said to him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’

22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

This young man, often referred to as the “Rich Young Ruler,” came to Jesus seeking the key to eternal life. He was sincere in his question and genuinely believed that keeping the commandments was not enough. Yet, when asked to forsake his wealth to follow Jesus, he was unable to do so. The Bible tells us he went away sorrowful because he had great possessions.

Theologically, this passage highlights the tension between earthly wealth and spiritual treasure. Jesus didn’t condemn wealth, but He pointed out that wealth can easily become an idol, a barrier between us and God. Matthew 6:24 says, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” The young man loved his wealth more than he loved the eternal treasures Christ offered, revealing that his heart was not truly set on eternal life.

Theologically, this passage calls us to examine our hearts: What do we love most? 1 Timothy 6:9-10 warns, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil…”

Had the young man made the right choice, he would have received eternal life and far greater riches than anything this world could offer. Jesus promised that anyone who forsakes all for His sake will receive a hundredfold in this life and inherit eternal life (Matthew 19:29). But the young man failed to grasp that Mark 8:36 reminds us, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”

THE SECOND YOUTH: MOSES

Now let’s consider Moses, a young man who made the opposite choice. He grew up in Pharaoh’s palace, enjoying the privileges of royalty. However, when he came of age, he chose to identify with the enslaved people of Israel rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of Egypt.

Hebrews 11:24-27 (NKJV)

“24 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter,

25 choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin,

26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.

27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.

Moses had the wealth and status of Egypt at his fingertips, but he chose to endure suffering with God’s people. He regarded the reproach of Christ as greater riches than the treasures of Egypt. This highlights the principle that true wealth is found in Christ alone, and not in earthly treasures or positions of power.

Hebrews 11:26 is theologically significant because it connects Moses’ choice to “the reproach of Christ.” This is a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that Christ would make on the cross. Moses, in his time, saw the eternal reward of being associated with God’s people and identified with Christ’s suffering, despite not knowing the full scope of Christ’s work.

Moses’ story is a powerful reminder that the kingdom of God offers an eternal reward that far outweighs the transient pleasures and wealth of this world. Moses is counted among the heroes of faith because he endured hardships for a future promise, just as we are called to do. The Bible reminds us in Romans 8:18: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

THE LESSON: WORLDLY WEALTH VS. SPIRITUAL TREASURE

The contrast between these two young men—one who chose earthly wealth and one who chose spiritual wealth—teaches us profound theological truths about what it means to follow Christ. The call of Jesus to “follow Me” is a call to forsake all else, not because God wants to take away our joy, but because He knows that true joy is found in His presence, not in the fleeting pleasures of this world.

In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus teaches:

“19 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;

20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.

21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

This passage is theologically significant because it reveals the true nature of wealth: eternal treasures are imperishable, unlike material wealth that is temporary and can be lost. The riches of the kingdom of God are far greater than anything this world can offer. Matthew 13:44 says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Theologically, this calls us to reorient our priorities. What do we value most in life? Is it wealth, status, pleasure, or the Kingdom of God? If we are to be disciples of Christ, we must be willing to follow Him, just as Moses and the apostles did, counting everything else as loss for the surpassing value of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8).

CONCLUSION: THE DECISION YOU MUST MAKE

Just like the young man in Matthew 19 and Moses, we too are faced with decisions that will determine the trajectory of our lives. The choice to follow Christ is not always easy, and it may require us to give up things we hold dear, but the rewards are far greater than anything this world can offer.

As young people, this is the time to make the right choice. In Ecclesiastes 12:1, the Bible says:

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them.

And in Lamentations 3:26, we are encouraged:

It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke in his youth.

Making the right decision now will set the course for your future, both in this life and in the life to come. My prayer is that you will choose wisely, just as Moses did, and store up treasures in heaven.

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John 12:28-30 (NKJV)

“28 Father, glorify Your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, saying, “I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.”

29 Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to Him.”

30 Jesus answered and said, “This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake.”

In this passage, we see a heavenly voice speaking to Jesus, and yet the people around Him misunderstand it. Some think it’s just thunder, while others believe an angel spoke. This is a powerful example of how the voice of God can be perceived differently depending on the spiritual condition of the listener.

The Bible as God’s Voice

The Bible is described as the voice of God in written form. It is the revealed Word of God, not merely a collection of ancient stories or ethical guidelines. Before it was written, the Word was spoken by God’s Spirit. This is clear from the way the Bible speaks of itself in 2 Timothy 3:16:

2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.

The inspiration of Scripture means that God Himself is the ultimate author. The Apostle Peter also emphasizes this in his second epistle:

2 Peter 1:21 (NKJV)

For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

So, when we read the Bible, it is the voice of God we are hearing, yet we need the Holy Spirit to help us understand it properly.

The Voice Behind the Thunder

The Bible often speaks with a thunderous tone, especially in parts of Scripture that are hard to understand or that contain difficult truths. To the untrained ear, it can seem like “thunder,” as the people in John 12 mistook the divine voice for mere noise. This points to the necessity of divine revelation to understand the Scriptures.

In 1 Corinthians 2:14, Paul highlights this reality:

1 Corinthians 2:14 (NIV)

The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

Without the Holy Spirit, the Word of God is just a foreign language, a “thunder” to our ears. But when the Spirit opens our hearts and minds, we begin to hear the very voice of God speaking directly to us.

The Bible as a Sealed Book

The Bible itself is described as a “sealed book” that can only be opened by the Spirit of God. This is consistent with what we read in Daniel 12:4 and Revelation 10:4, where both Daniel and John are told to seal up certain things in their visions until the proper time, indicating that understanding these prophecies requires divine intervention.

Daniel 12:4 (NKJV)

But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.

Revelation 10:4 (NKJV)

Now when the seven thunders uttered their voices, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Seal up the things which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them.

These passages highlight that some things in God’s Word are hidden from plain sight and require the Spirit of God to reveal. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are able to understand the mysteries of God.

Understanding Parables and Mysteries of the Kingdom

Jesus frequently spoke in parables to convey profound spiritual truths, but only those with ears to hear could understand their meaning. After telling the parable of the sower, Jesus’ disciples asked Him why He spoke in parables. His response points directly to the need for divine revelation and understanding:

Matthew 13:10-16 (NKJV)

“10 And the disciples came and said to Him, ‘Why do You speak to them in parables?’

11 He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.

12 For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.

13 Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.

14 And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: ‘Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, and seeing you will see and not perceive;

15 For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.’

16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear.

Jesus explains that spiritual understanding is not something that comes naturally—it is a gift from God. The disciples were given the ability to understand because they were open to the Spirit’s leading. The crowds, however, were blinded because they were not seeking to understand, and their hearts had become hardened.

In Mark 4:11-12, Jesus makes this even clearer:

Mark 4:11-12 (NIV)

He told them, ‘The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside, everything is said in parables so that, ‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven.

This is a direct quote from Isaiah 6:9-10, and it shows that God’s Word can either illuminate or blind, depending on the receptivity of the listener.

The Need for Spiritual Discernment

As we read the Scriptures, we must approach them with a heart that is open to the Holy Spirit. The Bible is more than just a book; it is the living Word of God, as described in Hebrews 4:12:

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Without the Spirit of God, the Bible remains just words on a page, but when we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, it becomes the voice of God speaking into our lives, convicting, teaching, and transforming us.

Seek to Hear God’s Voice

If you read the Bible and your life doesn’t change, it may be because you’re only hearing the thunder, not the voice of God. True understanding comes from a heart that is willing to listen to God and be transformed by His Word. James 1:22 urges us to be doers of the Word, not just hearers:

James 1:22 (NIV)

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

When you hear the Word of God, let it penetrate your heart, and let the Spirit give you understanding. That’s when you’ll hear the voice of God clearly, and it will change your life.

Conclusion: Open Your Heart

Brothers and sisters, don’t treat God’s Word lightly. The Bible is more than a storybook—it is the living, breathing voice of God. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind to understand it deeply. When you do, you’ll begin to hear God speaking directly to you, not as thunder, but as a clear, life-changing voice.

Revelation 3:20 (NKJV)

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

May you open your heart today to hear God’s voice, and may it transform your life to reflect His glory.

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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.

Sources

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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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Throughout Scripture and human experience, animals often symbolize traits reflected in individuals, communities, or nations. This symbolic use of animals serves as a vivid means for God to communicate spiritual truths.

For example, when Jesus called Herod a “fox” (Luke 13:32 NIV), He wasn’t insulting him but rather highlighting Herod’s cunning, predatory nature. Foxes are sly, cunning animals known for preying on smaller creatures and exhibiting promiscuous behavior traits evident in Herod’s murder of John the Baptist (Mark 6:17-29) and his immoral marriage to his brother’s wife (Mark 6:18).

Similarly, the prophet Daniel (Daniel 7 NIV) used four beasts to symbolize four kingdoms dominating the world until the end times:The lion represented Babylon, symbolizing strength and majesty (Daniel 7:4).The bear symbolized Media-Persia, known for power and ferocity (Daniel 7:5).The leopard represented Greece, noted for swiftness and cunning (Daniel 7:6).These animal symbols show how God uses creation to communicate kingdom characteristics.

Satan, the ultimate deceiver, is likened to a serpent (Genesis 3; Revelation 12:9 NIV) because of his cunning in tempting humanity to sin, starting with Adam and Eve’s rebellion by eating the forbidden fruit. This theme of deception continues throughout Scripture, with Satan leading the world astray (2 Corinthians 11:14 NIV).

JESUS CHRIST: THE LAMB OF GOD

In contrast, Jesus Christ is symbolized as the Lamb of God, a profound theological image rooted in both the Old and New Testaments.

Why a Lamb?Meekness and Humility: Lambs are gentle, unable to defend or lead themselves, completely dependent on the shepherd. This symbolism perfectly captures Jesus’ nature (Matthew 11:29 NIV), where He describes Himself as “gentle and humble in heart.”Substitutionary Sacrifice: The lamb represents innocent sacrifice. Old Testament sacrifices, such as the Passover lamb (Exodus 12), prefigure Christ, the ultimate Lamb who takes away sin (John 1:29 NIV).Dependence on the Shepherd: Unlike goats, which are independent and stubborn, lambs rely on the shepherd’s guidance (Psalm 23; John 10:11 NIV).

SCRIPTURAL SUPPORTS

John the Baptist’s declaration:

“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29 NIV)

This introduces Jesus as the perfect sacrificial lamb, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.

The Prophet Isaiah’s description:
Isaiah 53:3–7 (NIV) speaks prophetically of Jesus:

“He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain…
He was pierced for our transgressions…
Like a lamb led to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”

Isaiah’s prophecy emphasizes Jesus’ willing, silent submission to suffering and death for humanity’s redemption.

Zechariah’s prophecy about the Messiah’s humility:
Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) describes the King coming humbly, “righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey,” fulfilling messianic expectations of humility and peace.

The Holy Spirit as a Dove:
At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit descended “like a dove” (Mark 1:10 NIV), symbolizing purity, peace, and gentleness. The dove’s behavior resting only in peaceful places symbolizes the Spirit’s presence resting on Jesus, the “peaceful Lamb.”

BELIEVERS AS LAMBS

True followers of Christ are also likened to lambs, symbolizing humility, gentleness, dependence on God, and a peaceful spirit (1 Peter 2:25 NIV).

They exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23 NIV), living lives marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

GOATS VS. LAMBS: A DIVINE SEPARATION

In Matthew 25:31–46 (NIV), Jesus describes the final judgment, separating “sheep” (lambs) from “goats” based on their actions and hearts. The sheep, those who lived in obedience and compassion, inherit eternal life. The goats, who lived selfishly and rejected God’s ways, face eternal punishment.

This parable teaches that true faith expresses itself in love and service, following Jesus’ example.

CONCLUSION: WHICH ARE YOU?Are you a lamb? Gentle, humble, dependent on Jesus, bearing fruit of the Spirit, and walking in obedience?Or are you a goat? Independent, stubborn, self-led, and disconnected from the Shepherd?

The Holy Spirit will not rest on those who reject Christ’s lordship (Romans 8:9 NIV).

Be blessed!

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“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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