Title July 2019

THE BLOOD OF ZACHARIAH SON OF BARACHIAH


Based on Matthew 23:29–36 (ESV/NIV)

In Matthew 23:29–36, Jesus confronts the scribes and Pharisees, calling them hypocrites for honoring the prophets whom their ancestors had killed, while claiming they themselves would never have been guilty. Jesus reveals the truth: they are the spiritual descendants of those murderers.

“Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes, some of whom you will kill and crucify, and some you will flog in your synagogues and persecute from town to town,
so that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar.”
— Matthew 23:34-35 (ESV)

1. The Blood of Abel: The First Righteous Martyr

Abel was the first man recorded in Scripture to be murdered unjustly, slain by his brother Cain out of jealousy (Genesis 4:1–16). Abel’s offering pleased God, but Cain’s did not, leading to hatred and murder.

“By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.”
— Hebrews 11:4 (NIV)

Abel’s blood “speaking” is understood as God’s ongoing testimony against violence and injustice (Genesis 4:10). The innocent blood of the righteous demands divine justice.

2. Zechariah Son of Barachiah: The Priest Martyred in the Temple

The Zechariah mentioned here is identified as the son of Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 24), not the prophet Zechariah who authored the book bearing that name.

Jehoiada was a faithful priest who helped restore worship in Judah. After his death, the people rebelled, returning to idol worship. Zechariah courageously rebuked the people and the king for their disobedience:

“Then the Spirit of God came on Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, ‘This is what God says: Why do you disobey the Lord’s commands? You will not succeed. Because you have abandoned the Lord, He has abandoned you.’”
— 2 Chronicles 24:20 (NIV)

For this, Zechariah was stoned to death in the temple courtyard (2 Chronicles 24:21). His death symbolizes the rejection and murder of God’s messengers, even within His own house.

3. The Ongoing Cry of the Righteous Blood

The shedding of innocent blood is not forgotten by God. The righteous blood of Abel, Zechariah, and countless others cries out for justice.

This is echoed in Revelation:

“When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained.
They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?’”
— Revelation 6:9–10 (NIV)

4. Historical and Present-Day Application

Throughout history, faithful believers have been persecuted and killed for their faith. The Holocaust saw millions of innocent Jews murdered because of their heritage. Christian martyrs throughout history—many at the hands of corrupt religious leaders—also bear witness to this ongoing reality.

Jesus’ warning applies to all who reject God’s truth and persecute His people: judgment will come.

5. The Call to Repentance and Salvation

Anyone outside Christ is under the domain of darkness and subject to judgment (Colossians 1:13; John 3:18). Salvation through Jesus Christ cleanses from sin and breaks the power of death:

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
— 1 John 1:7 (NIV)

6. God’s Final Judgment on Those Who Shed Innocent Blood

God’s righteous judgment on those who persecute His saints is certain:

“The third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they turned to blood.
Then I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: ‘You are righteous, O Lord, The One who is and who was, the Holy One, because you have judged these things.
For they have shed the blood of your saints and prophets, and you have given them blood to drink as they deserve.’
And I heard the altar respond: ‘Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.’”
— Revelation 16:4–7 (NIV)

May God bless you with repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
Please share this message to warn others and encourage a heart that honors God’s justice and mercy.

If you want, I can help you format this into a Bible study or sermon outline. Would you like me to do that?

 

THE BLOOD OF ZACHARIAH SON OF BARACHIAH
Based on Matthew 23:29–36 (ESV/NIV)

In Matthew 23:29–36, Jesus confronts the scribes and Pharisees, calling them hypocrites for honoring the prophets whom their ancestors had killed, while claiming they themselves would never have been guilty. Jesus reveals the truth: they are the spiritual descendants of those murderers.

“Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes, some of whom you will kill and crucify, and some you will flog in your synagogues and persecute from town to town,
so that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar.”
— Matthew 23:34-35 (ESV)

1. The Blood of Abel: The First Righteous Martyr

Abel was the first man recorded in Scripture to be murdered unjustly, slain by his brother Cain out of jealousy (Genesis 4:1–16). Abel’s offering pleased God, but Cain’s did not, leading to hatred and murder.

“By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.”
— Hebrews 11:4 (NIV)

Abel’s blood “speaking” is understood as God’s ongoing testimony against violence and injustice (Genesis 4:10). The innocent blood of the righteous demands divine justice.

2. Zechariah Son of Barachiah: The Priest Martyred in the Temple

The Zechariah mentioned here is identified as the son of Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 24), not the prophet Zechariah who authored the book bearing that name.

Jehoiada was a faithful priest who helped restore worship in Judah. After his death, the people rebelled, returning to idol worship. Zechariah courageously rebuked the people and the king for their disobedience:

“Then the Spirit of God came on Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, ‘This is what God says: Why do you disobey the Lord’s commands? You will not succeed. Because you have abandoned the Lord, He has abandoned you.’”
— 2 Chronicles 24:20 (NIV)

For this, Zechariah was stoned to death in the temple courtyard (2 Chronicles 24:21). His death symbolizes the rejection and murder of God’s messengers, even within His own house.

3. The Ongoing Cry of the Righteous Blood

The shedding of innocent blood is not forgotten by God. The righteous blood of Abel, Zechariah, and countless others cries out for justice.

This is echoed in Revelation:

“When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained.
They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?’”
— Revelation 6:9–10 (NIV)

4. Historical and Present-Day Application

Throughout history, faithful believers have been persecuted and killed for their faith. The Holocaust saw millions of innocent Jews murdered because of their heritage. Christian martyrs throughout history—many at the hands of corrupt religious leaders—also bear witness to this ongoing reality.

Jesus’ warning applies to all who reject God’s truth and persecute His people: judgment will come.

5. The Call to Repentance and Salvation

Anyone outside Christ is under the domain of darkness and subject to judgment (Colossians 1:13; John 3:18). Salvation through Jesus Christ cleanses from sin and breaks the power of death:

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
— 1 John 1:7 (NIV)

6. God’s Final Judgment on Those Who Shed Innocent Blood

God’s righteous judgment on those who persecute His saints is certain:

“The third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they turned to blood.
Then I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: ‘You are righteous, O Lord, The One who is and who was, the Holy One, because you have judged these things.
For they have shed the blood of your saints and prophets, and you have given them blood to drink as they deserve.’
And I heard the altar respond: ‘Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.’”
— Revelation 16:4–7 (NIV)

May God bless you with repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
Please share this message to warn others and encourage a heart that honors God’s justice and mercy.

 

Print this post

The Blood of Zechariah son of Berechiah

1. Jesus’ Rebuke to the Religious Elite

Matthew 23:35 (NKJV):
“That on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar.”

In this verse, Jesus issues one of His strongest warnings to the scribes and Pharisees. By referencing Abel and Zechariah, He encapsulates the entire Old Testament history of violence against God’s messengers—from Genesis (Abel) to Chronicles (Zechariah), which was the last book in the Jewish Hebrew Bible at the time.

These men represent not only individual martyrs but also a pattern of systemic rejection of truth—a warning to every generation.

2. Abel: The First Martyr and the Voice of Innocent Blood

Genesis 4:8 (NKJV):
“Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and… Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.”

Hebrews 11:4 (NKJV):
“By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain… and through it he being dead still speaks.”

Abel’s blood cried out for justice (Genesis 4:10). Though he was the first martyr, his voice still symbolically speaks for all the righteous who suffer unjustly. Theologically, Abel’s death is the prototype of innocent bloodshed, and a foreshadow of Christ’s own death.

3. Zechariah son of Berechiah: Identity Clarification

While Jesus refers to “Zechariah son of Berechiah,” biblical scholars largely agree He was referring to Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest, recorded in:

2 Chronicles 24:20–21 (NKJV):
“Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest… So they conspired against him, and at the command of the king they stoned him with stones in the court of the house of the Lord.”

Why the different name?
In Jewish tradition, genealogical references often skip generations. “Son of Berechiah” could be an alternate family name or even refer to a grandfather or ancestor. What matters theologically is the act—Zechariah, a righteous priest, was murdered in the sanctuary, desecrating the very heart of Israel’s worship.

4. The Weight of National Guilt

Matthew 23:31–32 (NKJV):
“Therefore you are witnesses against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers’ guilt.”

Jesus identifies a generational pattern of rejecting God’s prophets. This isn’t merely historical—it reflects spiritual hardness that transcends time. Jesus declares that the blood of the martyrs will come upon that generation—fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70.

5. The Cry for Justice in Heaven

Revelation 6:9–10 (NKJV):
“…I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God… and they cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge…?’”

These martyrs are not forgotten. In God’s justice system, blood has a voice. The altar in heaven is a direct theological parallel to the altar in the temple—the very place where Zechariah was slain.

6. Divine Vengeance and Theological Justice

Revelation 16:5–6 (NKJV):
“You are righteous, O Lord… For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.”

The Bible teaches that God is just (Deuteronomy 32:4) and will avenge the righteous (Romans 12:19). When human courts fail, divine justice remains. God’s judgment is not vengeful in human terms; it is a response to unrepentant sin.

7. The Gospel Response: Jesus’ Blood Speaks Better Things

Hebrews 12:24 (NKJV):
“…to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.”

While Abel’s blood calls for justice, Jesus’ blood calls for mercy. The cross is the ultimate answer to the cries of righteous blood—it is God’s offer of forgiveness to even those who killed His prophets.

8. A Call to Repentance and Spiritual Awakening

Hebrews 2:3 (NKJV):
“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…?”

Today, many still reject God’s messengers, though not by stoning—but by indifference, false doctrine, or institutional compromise. Refusing salvation through Christ aligns one with those who resisted God in ages past.

Salvation demands that we:

  • Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31)
  • Repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38)
  • Walk in holiness and love (Romans 12:1–2)

Conclusion: Whose Blood Will Cover You?

All through Scripture, two types of blood cry out:

  1. The blood of the innocent, calling for justice.
  2. The blood of Jesus, offering mercy and redemption.

To escape divine judgment, one must be covered by the blood of Christ—the only blood that reconciles us to God (Colossians 1:20).

Psalm 23:4 (NKJV):
“…Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Let His shepherding rod lead you into truth—and away from judgment.

May the Lord bless you, give you discernment, and draw you fully into the covering of the blood that saves.

Print this post

REJECT SATAN AND HIS HUMAN-CENTERED THINKING

 

Based on Mark 8:31–33

“And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. And He said this plainly. And Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But turning and seeing His disciples, He rebuked Peter and said, ‘Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.’”
— Mark 8:31–33, ESV

This moment in Jesus’ ministry marks a critical theological teaching on spiritual discernment and the nature of Satan’s deception. Christ reveals how Satan manipulates human thinking—even among His closest followers—by redirecting their focus from God’s eternal plan to temporary, worldly concerns.

1. Satan’s Deception Often Sounds Compassionate—but Contradicts Scripture

Peter thought he was offering support when he rebuked Jesus for speaking about His death. His intentions seemed good. But despite his loyalty, Peter had unknowingly become a mouthpiece for Satan.

This shows us that Satan doesn’t always come with horns and threats—he often comes disguised in well-meaning thoughts. The Apostle Paul warns us:

“And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.”
— 2 Corinthians 11:14, ESV

Jesus had just revealed the divine necessity of the cross—that the Son of Man must suffer, die, and rise again. This was not just a prediction but the fulfillment of prophecy and the redemptive plan of God (Isaiah 53:5–6). Peter’s reaction contradicted that plan, even though it sounded caring. That’s why Jesus sharply rebuked him.

2. Spiritual Warfare Begins in the Mind

When Jesus said, “You are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man,” He revealed that the battleground is our thoughts. Satan doesn’t need to possess us to influence us—he only needs to inject a deceptive idea.

The Bible teaches that every believer must guard their mind:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God.”
— Romans 12:2, ESV

“For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 10:4–5, ESV

Even Peter—who had just confessed that Jesus was the Christ (Mark 8:29)—failed to recognize when his thinking was out of alignment with God’s will. Why? Because, at that moment, he didn’t weigh his thoughts against God’s revealed Word.

3. Satan Promotes Earthly Thinking Over Eternal Truth

Jesus identifies Satan’s core strategy: to fix our minds on temporary, human concerns instead of eternal ones. The enemy wants us preoccupied with safety, success, comfort, and survival, rather than sacrifice, obedience, and eternity.

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
— Colossians 3:2, NIV

Satan doesn’t want you to think about death, judgment, or eternity. He wants you to plan for retirement—but never for what comes after. That’s why Jesus called out Peter’s rebuke—it wasn’t aligned with God’s redemptive mission.

This also explains why Satan resists funerals, suffering, or any situation that might prompt spiritual reflection. The wise, however, embrace these moments:

“It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart.”
— Ecclesiastes 7:2, ESV

“The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.”
— Ecclesiastes 7:4, NKJV

4. Rejecting Satan’s Thoughts Requires Sound Doctrine and the Holy Spirit

Jesus did not rebuke Peter himself, but the influence behind him. And that’s key: we must learn to discern between the person and the spirit or idea motivating them. Scripture makes it clear:

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers… against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
— Ephesians 6:12, ESV

So how do we fight back?

➤ Step 1: True Repentance

Turning from sin in heart and action (Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19).

➤ Step 2: Biblical Baptism

Full immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins:

“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
— Acts 2:38, ESV

➤ Step 3: Receiving the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit becomes our daily guide and teacher:

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit… He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
— John 14:26, ESV

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

5. The Word of God Is Your Weapon

Peter was rebuked because he failed to understand the Scriptures fully. If he had known Isaiah 53 or Psalm 22, he would’ve realized that the Messiah must suffer. This lack of scriptural knowledge left him vulnerable to Satan’s “compassionate” but dangerous suggestion.

That’s why Scripture is described as a sword:

“Take… the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
— Ephesians 6:17, ESV

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…”
— Hebrews 4:12, ESV

Knowing the Word gives you the power to identify and reject satanic ideas. Without it, you’ll mistake Satan’s lies for human empathy.

Conclusion: Fix Your Eyes on the Eternal

Don’t fall for Satan’s trap of living only for this world. His goal is to blind people from thinking about eternity (2 Corinthians 4:4). But God calls us to prepare not just for this life—but for the next.

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
— 2 Corinthians 4:18, NIV

Reject Satan’s thoughts. Reject temporary thinking. Embrace the mind of Christ. And keep your heart set on God’s eternal purpose.

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 2:5, KJV

May the Lord bless you and give you discernment to reject every thought not aligned with His truth.
Stay rooted in Scripture. Be filled with the Spirit. And fix your eyes on.

Print this post

WHEN A TREE FALLS, IT STAYS WHERE IT LANDS

Ecclesiastes 11:3b (NKJV)
“…If a tree falls to the south or the north, in the place where it falls, there it will lie.” 

The Bible uses the image of a tree to represent the finality of our lives. When a tree falls—whether because it’s old or because someone cuts it down—it doesn’t get to decide where it lands. The direction it falls depends on how it’s been growing all along. Even a tree that appears straight may have been leaning slightly in one direction, and you only discover that lean when it falls. Once it’s down, it stays there. A fallen tree cannot get up or move. It’s final.

This is a powerful picture of our lives. If the return of Jesus (the Rapture) doesn’t happen in our lifetime, then each of us will face physical death

 (Hebrews 9:27:

“It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”).

And just like the tree, the way we lived determines where we end up for eternity. There’s no chance to change sides after death.

Many people believe they can live however they want and turn to God at the last minute. But that’s a dangerous mindset. The way you’re living now reveals the direction you’re spiritually leaning—either toward God or away from Him. And when your time on earth ends, you will “fall” in that direction.

If changing direction at the last moment were easy or guaranteed, God wouldn’t have called people to follow Him from childhood

 (Proverbs 22:6: “

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”).

He wouldn’t have sent prophets, apostles, or even His Son to call people to repentance. He would have simply waited until people were dying. But that’s not how salvation works. Salvation is not a momentary decision at the point of death—it is a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, one that shapes every day of our lives

(Luke 9:23:

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”).

Just as a tree lies where it falls, your eternal destiny is sealed at death—whether it’s toward eternal life or eternal separation from God. Jesus taught this clearly in Luke 16:19–31 through the story of the rich man and Lazarus. After death, each man went to a fixed place—one to comfort, the other to torment—with a great chasm between them that no one could cross. No second chances. No middle ground.

That’s why it’s vital to examine your life now. Which direction are you leaning? Toward God—or away from Him? The Bible tells us to “examine ourselves to see whether we are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). If your life were to end today, would you fall into the hands of a loving Savior—or into eternal separation from God?

If you haven’t surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, the opportunity is still available now. The Bible says, “

2 Corinthians 6:2

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” 

You can turn to Jesus today. Repent of your sins (Acts 3:19), believe in Him as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9–10), and receive His forgiveness.

Then, follow through in obedience by being baptized—just as the early church did—in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38). And God promises to fill you with the Holy Spirit, who will guide, comfort, and strengthen you every day of your life (John 14:26, Romans 8:14).

God is offering you life today. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Be blessed.

For prayers, counseling, or worship service schedules, please contact:
📞 +225693036618 / +225789001312

 

Print this post

IT’S NOT THE DEVIL — IT’S YOU! (CHOOSE WHAT IS RIGHT)

 

One of Satan’s most effective deceptions is convincing people that they are never responsible for their own sins. He works tirelessly to shift the blame onto himself, making people believe that he alone is the cause of all human problems.
That’s why when someone commits adultery, they say, “It’s the devil!” When someone steals or kills, again—“The devil made me do it!” But the Bible shows that Satan himself fell without being tempted by anyone. His downfall came from his own heart:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” — Jeremiah 17:9, NKJV

In other words, just like Satan, many people are led astray not by external forces, but by the evil within their own hearts.
Even in Isaiah 14:12–14, we learn how Satan fell by saying in his heart, “I will ascend into heaven… I will be like the Most High.” Pride and rebellion originated within him.

🌿 Sin Is a Choice—Not a Force

Most people blame Satan when they sin, but in reality, they choose sin willingly. Satan didn’t create sin—he only promotes it. The possibility of evil was allowed by God to make free will meaningful. Without the option to disobey, there would be no true obedience.

“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.” — Deuteronomy 30:15

God placed the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in Eden not as a trap, but as a symbol of choice. Even if Satan had not tempted Eve, she still had the free will to eat from it. Satan was just a tempter, not the creator of sin.

“Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.” — James 1:15

The source of sin is the desire in the human heart, not an outside force overpowering someone. Satan takes advantage of the desires that are already within us.

🛑 Personal Accountability on Judgment Day

When someone sins, they are not being forced by Satan. They are making a personal decision to obey the desires of the flesh.

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” — Galatians 6:7

“So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” — Romans 14:12

The Bible is clear that we will each stand before the judgment seat of Christ, and give an account of what we have done—not what Satan did through us:

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” — 2 Corinthians 5:10

No one will be able to say, “It wasn’t me—it was Satan!” That excuse will not hold.

“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” — John 3:19

People don’t sin because Satan is powerful—they sin because they love darkness more than light.

⚖️ God Rewards and Punishes According to Your Choices

Just as God promises to bless those who choose good, He also warns of curses and judgment upon those who choose evil. This was true even in Eden:

“To the woman He said: ‘I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children.’… Then to Adam He said… ‘Cursed is the ground for your sake.’” — Genesis 3:16–17

Notice—it wasn’t Satan who cursed Adam and Eve—it was God. Why? Because they made the choice to sin.
In the same way today, when you choose sin, the consequences come from God, not Satan.

“He who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.” — Colossians 3:25

🛍️ A Marketplace Analogy: You Choose What You Buy

Life is like walking into a market with two shops—one offers garments of righteousness (white robes), and the other offers garments of sin (darkness). Both shopkeepers invite you in, but only you can decide what to purchase.
If you choose sin and later suffer the consequences, you can’t blame the seller—the decision was yours.

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life…” — Deuteronomy 30:19

You are fully responsible for the choices you make.

🧠 People Claim Good Works for Themselves but Blame Evil on Satan

Have you noticed how people take credit when they do good, saying things like, “I just felt like helping that poor person”—yet when they sin, they quickly say, “It was the devil!”?
If we take credit for the good, we must also take responsibility for the bad.

“Be not wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil.” — Proverbs 3:7

“If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; But if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword.” — Isaiah 1:19–20

God will not judge Satan for your actions—He will judge you. Yes, Satan tempts, but you choose.

🕊️ There Is Hope—Jesus Chose Righteousness

There is one Man who never gave in to sin. Jesus Christ lived in perfect obedience to God and chose good in every situation:

“Curds and honey He shall eat, that He may know to refuse the evil and choose the good.” — Isaiah 7:15

He is the only one who can teach us how to walk in righteousness. He invites all who are weary from sin and burdened by guilt to come to Him:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me… For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” — Matthew 11:29–30

Whatever sin you are bound in—whether it’s sexual immorality, pornography, addiction, gossip, corruption, abortion, fear, or spiritual oppression—Jesus is calling you today. Come to Him as you are, and He will receive you.

💧 Repent and Be Baptized in the Name of Jesus

Repent sincerely—not just in words, but with the commitment to turn away from sin completely. God promises to forgive you:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9

But don’t stop at repentance. To complete your cleansing, you must obey the Gospel by being baptized—fully immersed in water in the name of Jesus Christ:

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” — Acts 2:38

Through baptism, your past sins are washed away, and you are born again in Christ. Then the Holy Spirit will empower you to choose what is right and live a life that pleases God.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

🎺 The Last Days Are Here—Be Ready

We are living in the last days. The trumpet could sound at any moment. Those who belong to Christ will be caught up to meet Him (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). Let’s strive to be among those who are found faithful and ready.

“Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” — Revelation 19:7

🕊️ Will You Choose Light or Darkness?

The message is simple:
Don’t blame Satan. Take responsibility. Choose righteousness. Follow Jesus. Eternal life is in your hands—but only if you choose life.

“Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15

God bless you. Please share this message with others.

 

Print this post

THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE

Jeremiah 30:7 (KJV)

Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.

The Bible warns of a coming period so severe that no event in human history compares to it. This is the time the prophets called Jacob’s Trouble, a unique tribulation designed to refine and restore Israel, and to execute God’s final judgments upon the world

The Great Tribulation Foretold

The prophet Daniel was shown this dreadful time:

Daniel 12:1 (KJV)

And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

This aligns perfectly with the words of Jesus Christ:

Matthew 24:21-22 (KJV)

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

The elect in this context refers primarily to the faithful remnant of Israel (see Isaiah 45:4) and secondarily to those Gentiles who come to faith during the tribulation period.

The Restoration of Israel and the Setting of the Stage

Jeremiah foretold that before this time of trouble, Israel would be regathered:

Jeremiah 30:1-3 (KJV)

The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD God of Israel, saying, Write thee all the words that I have spoken unto thee in a book.

For, lo, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will bring again the captivity of my people Israel and Judah, saith the LORD: and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it.

This was fulfilled in part in 1948 when, after nearly 2,500 years, Israel became a sovereign nation once more (Isaiah 66:8). Yet this physical restoration is only the beginning; spiritual restoration will come through tribulation (Ezekiel 36:24-27).

The Holocaust: A Foreshadow of Jacob’s Trouble

World War II and the Holocaust give us a chilling glimpse of what lies ahead. More than six million Jews were murdered, many in gas chambers under Adolf Hitler’s evil regime. Yet, as horrific as this was, it was merely “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8, KJV).

During the tribulation, Scripture indicates that the Antichrist will unleash unparalleled persecution:

Zechariah 13:8-9 (KJV)

And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein.

And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.

The Role of the Antichrist and God’s Sovereignty

The tribulation will be marked by the rise of the man of sin, the Antichrist (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, KJV), who will establish a covenant with Israel, only to break it and demand worship (Daniel 9:27, Revelation 13:4-7). His reign will bring death, destruction, and desecration of the rebuilt temple (Matthew 24:15).

But even in wrath, God remembers mercy (Habakkuk 3:2). The tribulation is both judgment and a means of bringing Israel to true repentance.

The Rapture of the Church

Before this dreadful time begins, the true Church—the Bride of Christ—will be caught up to meet the Lord:

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (KJV)

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Christ’s Bride is not destined for wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:9). The rapture will occur before God pours out His judgments (Revelation 3:10).

The Fate of the Foolish Virgins

Those unprepared—like the foolish virgins in Jesus’ parable—will face this time of terror:

Matthew 25:10-12 (KJV)

And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.

But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Those who reject God’s grace now will find it absent in that hour, as His focus returns to Israel (Romans 11:25-27).

A Call to Decision

These are the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5). The signs of the times—the moral decay, natural disasters, wars, and global unrest—all point to the nearness of the end. Jesus said:

Luke 21:28 (KJV)

And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

Do not gamble with your soul. This is no time for half-hearted faith. Repent sincerely. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31). Be baptized (Acts 2:38). Receive the Holy Spirit, who seals you until the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14).

Final Exhortation

May the Lord bless you as you heed this message. Share it with others so they too may escape the coming wrath and be part of Christ’s glorious kingdom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print this post

IS BETTING/GAMBLING A SIN?

To determine whether betting is a sin, we must first understand God’s will. You cannot identify what displeases God unless you first know what pleases Him.

When God created human beings and all living creatures—including animals—He placed within us something called conscience. This conscience acts as an internal guide, helping us distinguish between right and wrong. It exists in all living beings (both humans and animals) and carries God’s moral laws within it.

The Role of Conscience in Morality

Even without God directly speaking to us about what is right or wrong, our conscience has the ability to recognize when something is not right.

For example, a lion may hunt and kill an antelope, but that same lion will never eat its own cub. Why? Because the conscience within it tells the lion that such an action is wrong. The lion has not been given a written law from God, yet it follows an internal moral law.

Similarly, you will never see a male dog mating with another male dog. Why? Because the conscience inside animals naturally guides them away from such behavior, even though they have physical urges.

Humans are the same way. We also have an inbuilt conscience that carries God’s moral laws. A person may have no knowledge of the Bible or any religious teachings, yet they will still recognize that certain actions—such as killing, mistreating children, or stealing—are wrong.

The conscience does not require written laws to distinguish right from wrong. That is why even animals, despite their instincts, still follow certain moral boundaries.

For example:

  • A person instinctively knows that abortion is wrong because they understand deep inside that it is taking a life.

  • A person who takes drugs knows that they are harming themselves.

  • Someone who engages in masturbation or pornography feels guilt deep inside, even though they may not find a specific Bible verse explicitly calling it a sin.

  • A person involved in gambling or betting often feels hesitant before starting, sensing that something is not right.

Betting and Gambling—A Deceptive Trap

Betting is a form of gambling, which is legalized in many countries but remains morally questionable.

Most people who start betting feel an inner resistance at first. They experience unease, hesitation, and doubt about whether the practice is right. They may even ask others if it is acceptable. These signs should not be ignored. They indicate that their conscience is warning them against something harmful.

Once a person silences that inner voice and proceeds with betting, they eventually lose that initial discomfort and start seeing gambling as “normal.” However, this is a dangerous deception.

The Dark Side of Betting

Many global betting companies operate under hidden, sinister agendas. These organizations, often run by secret societies such as Freemasons and other occult groups, use gambling profits to:

  • Fund LGBTQ+ campaigns to promote sexual immorality.

  • Support abortion rights and the killing of unborn children.

  • Finance terrorism and criminal activities to create global instability.

Satan uses betting and gambling as a tool to trap people into financial ruin while enriching his kingdom. The Bible warns against the love of money and the desire for quick riches, as these are common tricks the devil uses to lure people into destruction.

Biblical Warnings Against the Love of Money

1 Timothy 6:9-10 (NIV)

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

Betting makes people obsessed with easy money, and this leads them into spiritual bondage. Many gamblers find themselves:

  • Addicted to gambling, always returning even after multiple losses.

  • Struggling financially due to money lost in bets.

  • Controlled by unseen spiritual forces that keep them in financial and moral ruin.

God’s Plan for Gaining Wealth

God does not want His people to seek quick, easy money through gambling. Instead, He teaches that wealth should be earned gradually, through honest work.

Proverbs 13:11 (NIV)

“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”

The Biblical principle is to work diligently and build wealth over time. Any method that promises instant riches, such as gambling or betting, is a trap of the devil.

Conclusion: Should Christians Bet?

The answer is NO. Betting is a deceptive scheme designed to enslave people financially and spiritually. It is controlled by satanic forces that use gambling profits to promote evil. Even if the Bible does not explicitly mention betting, the conscience within us warns that it is not right.

If you are involved in betting, the Bible calls you to repent and turn away from it. Instead of seeking quick money, trust in God’s provision and follow His principles for financial success.

2 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV)

“Therefore, ‘Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.’”

God bless you!

Print this post

GUARD, WHAT IS THE NEWS TONIGHT?

In addition to the responsibility of protecting, another key role of a guard is to sense danger from a distance. This is why we observe the behavior of dogs, which God created to protect us. While they are fierce, they are also gifted with an extraordinary sense of smell and hearing. This allows them to detect dangers or changes in the environment from far off. At night, dogs often bark a lot because they sense things beyond human perception—things that seem unusual, or things that we cannot see or hear. What might seem like a peaceful, safe time to us is often chaotic for them.

This analogy reflects the work of a spiritual watchman. A guard’s role isn’t only to protect when danger approaches; it’s also to perceive danger before it arrives. This requires vigilance, investigation, discernment, and often, patrol. The role of a spiritual guard is to be alert to the unseen threats and act before things escalate.

Isaiah 21:11-12 (NKJV)

“A prophecy against Duma. One calls to me from Seir,

‘Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?’

The watchman said,

‘The morning comes, and also the night. If you will inquire, inquire;

Return! Come back!'”

The watchman in this passage gives a clear response: the night is passing, but the danger is not over. There is a spiritual significance here that we must understand — as believers, we are not just watching for the passing of time but discerning the times in which we live. The spiritual “night” will soon end, and the day of the Lord will arrive.

Ezekiel 33:1-5 (NKJV)

The word of the Lord came to me:

‘Son of man, speak to the children of your people, and say to them:

When I bring the sword upon a land, and the people of the land take a man from their territory and make him their watchman,

when he sees the sword coming upon the land and blows the trumpet and warns the people,

then whoever hears the sound of the trumpet and does not take warning, if the sword comes and takes him away, his blood shall be on his own head.

He heard the sound of the trumpet, but did not take warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he who takes warning will save his life.

In this passage, we see the importance of a watchman: when a warning is given, it is for the salvation of the people. If they fail to heed the warning, the consequences fall on them. Similarly, we are called to be watchful and to warn others. As believers, our responsibility is to warn others about the danger of sin and the coming judgment.

Matthew 24:42-44 (NIV)

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.

But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into.

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

Jesus Himself compares His return to a thief in the night. This metaphor emphasizes the unexpectedness and suddenness of His second coming. No one knows the hour, so it is critical for Christians to live in a state of readiness. The role of the spiritual watchman (which we all have as believers) is to stay awake and alert for the signs of Christ’s return.

THE HOLY SPIRIT AS OUR WATCHMAN

The key reason why the watchman is so essential is because of the Holy Spirit that God has given to each believer. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a Helper and a spiritual guard who would guide us in these last days. This is not merely about keeping watch physically but spiritually, with a heightened awareness of the times we are in.

John 16:13 (NIV)

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

The Holy Spirit is actively guiding believers, alerting us to the dangers of the world and pointing us toward God’s truth. His role is to prepare us, warning us of the approaching dangers and encouraging us to stay alert.

In the last days, the Holy Spirit is our seal of protection (Ephesians 1:13). He is the one who empowers us to discern the times and gives us the strength to stay faithful in the face of trials. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive the wisdom and understanding necessary to navigate these perilous times.

THE SUDDEN COMING OF CHRIST

The return of Jesus will be sudden and unexpected, as the Bible clearly teaches. Many people will be caught unaware, especially those who have ignored the call to repentance and failed to heed the warnings. Jesus likened His return to the days of Noah, where people were going about their daily lives, eating, drinking, and marrying, until the flood came suddenly and took them away (Matthew 24:37-39).

Matthew 24:42-44 (NIV)

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.

But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into.

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

The call is clear: be prepared. Don’t wait until it’s too late. The urgency of Jesus’ warning is significant. Those who are spiritually unprepared will not be ready when He comes. The watchman’s job is to warn people before it’s too late, just as the prophets did in the Old Testament.

THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN LAST-DAY ALERTNESS

One of the most important gifts the Lord gave us before He ascended was the Holy Spirit, whom He called our “Helper” (John 14:26). He knew that in these last days, darkness would cover the earth, and spiritual sleep would set in, dulling the hearts of many. The Holy Spirit was sent to awaken us, to guide us into all truth, and to be our spiritual guard. Without Him, we would be as those who fall asleep spiritually, unaware of the danger.

Romans 8:9 (NKJV)

But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.

The Holy Spirit’s presence in the life of a believer ensures that we are sealed and secure in Christ, and He continuously alerts us to the signs of the times. This is why those who are filled with the Holy Spirit will not be surprised when Christ returns. They will recognize the signs and will be ready to go when the time comes.

Ephesians 4:30 (NKJV)

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

But for those who have not received the Holy Spirit, or have quenched Him, they will be spiritually unaware and will miss the warning signs. This is the tragedy of those who ignore the Spirit’s call, who refuse to listen to His voice.

THE SUDDEN END OF THE WORLD

The Bible is clear that the end of the world will come suddenly. The Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, catching the unprepared off guard. The world will be busy, thinking everything is fine, but suddenly, everything will change.

2 Peter 3:10 (NKJV)

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.

The suddenness of the coming judgment is a central theme in Scripture. Those who are not prepared, who are not watching, will face destruction.

CONCLUSION: BE ALERT AND READY

We are living in the last days. The signs are clear, and the warnings are all around us. As believers, we must remain vigilant, keeping watch and staying alert to the voice of the Holy Spirit. The day of Christ’s return is nearer than ever, and it will come suddenly. The question is: are you ready?

If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, today is the day. Repent, turn away from sin, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. When you do this, you will receive the Holy Spirit, and He will guide you through the challenges of these last days.

Romans 10:9-10 (NKJV)

That 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. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

May the Lord bless you, guide you, and keep you ready for His return.

 

 

Print this post

DENY YOURSELF, GOD’S CHOSEN ONE

Think about this: a geography textbook isn’t written for just anyone — it’s intended for students who are ready to learn that subject. The same is true for physics or biology books. If someone picks up those books without being a student of the subject, the information may not make sense to them or benefit them. And those books weren’t written to be skimmed like a magazine — they were written to be studied, to provide knowledge that helps students succeed in life and pass their exams.

If a student rushes through the book without understanding it — even if they manage to read the entire thing in one day — they’ll still fail the test. That’s because the authors intended for the material to be learned gradually, reflected on, compared with other knowledge, and applied. That’s why real learning often takes years.

In the same way, the Bible is the Book of Life, and it wasn’t written for casual readers. It was written for disciples — true students of God’s Kingdom. Some people read it like a newspaper and gain nothing. But the true follower of Christ reads it as the very foundation of their life. Their future depends on it; it is the key to eternal life. That’s why the Bible says:

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.

(Proverbs 4:13, NIV)

This isn’t talking about worldly education. The primary focus is on the wisdom of God — the teaching that leads to eternal life. As Jesus said:

Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.

(Matthew 13:52, ESV)

Where there is learning, there is a school. And where there is a school, there are teachers, students, and a curriculum. In the new life of a believer, the school is life in Christ, the Holy Spirit is the Teacher, and the Bible is the curriculum.

Who are the students? They are those who have been born again, who have chosen to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ wholeheartedly.

If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.

(Luke 9:23-24, ESV)

 

Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.

(Luke 14:27, ESV)

Just as a boarding student leaves behind family, comfort, and freedom to focus on learning, so a follower of Christ leaves behind the old life — even the desires of parents and friends — to pursue eternal life.

Christianity is not a life of constant ease and prosperity, as false teachers often claim. Jesus Himself warned:

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

John 16:33, NIV)

And Paul reminds us:

Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.

(Acts 14:22, ESV)

Just as schools require uniforms and discipline, so does the Christian walk require outward holiness that reflects inward transformation.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

(Romans 12:2, NIV)

If you are born again, your lifestyle, dress, and appearance will change to honor God. Paul writes:

I want women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.

(1 Timothy 2:9-10, ESV)

 

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

(1 Corinthians 10:31, ESV)

Christianity isn’t a matter of coming in and out as we please. Once you are in Christ, you are His. If you walk away, you’ve left His school. And the Holy Spirit’s discipline is directed toward those inside the school — His true children — not outsiders.

The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.

(Hebrews 12:6, ESV)

When you enroll in this school of Christ, you receive the curriculum (God’s Word) and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. But if you rely only on what you hear in church and never study the Bible yourself, you’ll fail when trials come. Paul urges:

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

(2 Timothy 2:15, ESV)

Just as graduation from school brings honor after hardship, so will perseverance in Christ bring eternal reward:

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

(James 1:12, NIV)

 

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

(Matthew 13:43, ESV)

Peter asked Jesus what reward there would be for leaving everything behind:

Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. (Matthew 19:28-29, ESV)

This is the great reward Christ holds out to His students!

When Christ calls you to repentance, to leave sin behind, to be baptized by immersion in His name, and to forsake the world, He is not trying to make life harder for you — He is enrolling you in His school, preparing you for a far greater honor than anything on earth.

And remember — no true school exists without rules. That’s why He says, “Deny yourself.” Let go of worldly fashions, immodest clothing, artificial adornments, and anything that draws attention to self instead of glorifying God.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.

(Titus 2:11-12, ESV)

In worldly schools, you obeyed uniform rules without argument. How much more should we obey the commands of Christ, our Chief Teacher! Don’t be deceived by the lie that God only looks at the heart and doesn’t care about the outside — the heart and body are connected.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?

(1 Corinthians 6:19, ESV)

Education is the key to life. Don’t think only about today — think about eternity. Don’t let old sins cause you regret forever. Become a student of Christ today.

May the Lord bless you richly as you follow Him!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print this post

YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN!

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NKJV)

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.

When you understand this truth, you will begin to honor and care for your body far more than before. Many people fail to realize that the bodies we live in are not our personal property. God has entrusted them to us, but He retains ownership. We have not been given complete control or sovereignty over them.

If our bodies were truly our own, we would be able to command them entirely. We could stop our hair from growing with a simple word. We could tell our hearts to stop beating, or our lungs to stop breathing, and they would obey as easily as our legs respond when we choose to walk or sit. But clearly, this is not the case.

We have very limited authority over our bodies. The internal processes — digestion, growth, heartbeat, breathing, cell regeneration — all operate under God’s design, not ours. As Psalm 139:13-14 (NKJV) says, “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”

A woman, for example, does not construct the baby in her womb. She simply discovers she is with child, and the process unfolds according to God’s plan. The growth of a child, the healing of a wound, the beating of the heart — all happen without our permission or power.

OUR BODIES BELONG TO GOD

God, the Creator, is the rightful Owner of our bodies. As the Lord declares in Ezekiel 18:4 (NKJV) — “Behold, all souls are Mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is Mine…” Similarly, He owns our bodies, and He sets the standard for how they should be used.

We have been given responsibility over external movements — the ability to walk, lift, see, speak — but this is only a small part of what happens in and through our bodies.

This is why Scripture warns us to glorify God in our bodies and with our bodies. The body is not meant for sin but for the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:13 (NKJV) says: “Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.”

THE ACCOUNT ILLUSTRATION

Think of your body like an account — for example, a social media account or a bank account. It’s given to you, protected by a password, but ultimately governed by higher authorities. You can use it freely, but if you violate the terms, it can be suspended or deleted without your consent. This is similar to our bodies.

Despite how private or personal your body may feel, God retains full authority. He can “close the account” — end your life — at any moment, according to His will. As Job 1:21 (NKJV) says, “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”

GOD’S COMMANDS FOR THE BODY

God has given clear instructions for how we are to treat our bodies:

✅ No tattoos or body markings for worldly purposes:

Leviticus 19:28 (NKJV)

You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.

✅ Dress with modesty:

1 Timothy 2:9 (NKJV)

In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing…

✅ Avoid sexual immorality:

1 Corinthians 6:18 (NKJV)

Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.

 

Ephesians 5:3 (NKJV)

But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints.

✅ Avoid harmful habits that defile the body:

These include drunkenness, smoking, drug abuse, and using the body as an instrument for sin (see Galatians 5:19-21).

Our bodies were designed to reflect God’s glory — not to promote sin or selfish desires. As Romans 12:1 (NKJV) urges: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

REPENTANCE AND RESTORATION

If you have misused your body in ignorance — through sexual sin, tattoos, substance abuse, or any other defilement — God offers forgiveness. This is your chance to repent and be restored.

Acts 2:38 (NKJV)

Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

True baptism is by full immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ. After repentance and baptism, God promises the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to overcome sin. John 14:26 (NKJV) calls Him our Helper, the One who teaches us all things and reminds us of the truth.

The Holy Spirit is essential. Ephesians 4:30 (NKJV) — “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” Without His help, no one can live a holy life.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

Brothers and sisters, remember: you are not your own. You were bought at the price of Christ’s blood (1 Peter 1:18-19). Therefore, glorify God in your body and your spirit, which are His.

May the Lord bless you and give you the strength to honor Him with your body. Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print this post

Archives

Search

Archives

Migawanyo