Answer:
To understand this well, it’s important to recognize that the Bible speaks about different kinds of oaths, and not all oaths are sinful or forbidden.
For instance, the Apostle Paul calls God as a witness to confirm his words:
“But I call God to witness against me—it was to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.” — 2 Corinthians 1:23
“For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son…” — Romans 1:9
From this, we see there are two main categories of oaths:
These oaths are solemn promises made before God, often called vows or covenants. They bind a person spiritually and morally. For example, if someone vows to God to do or not do something until a certain purpose is fulfilled, this is serious. Failing to keep such a vow is considered sin (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5):
“When you make a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools; pay what you vow.” — Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
Marriage is another example of a sacred covenant. When two people marry according to God’s design, they are bound by a holy oath to remain faithful until death:
“What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” — Mark 10:9
Whether the couple publicly declares their vows or not, the marriage covenant is established before God.
In courts or official agreements, people are often asked to swear or affirm the truth of their statements or their commitment to uphold contracts. These oaths serve a practical purpose—they confirm honesty and build trust. They are not about proving moral perfection or superiority but about affirming truthfulness and accountability.
God forbids rash, arrogant, or prideful oaths—those made carelessly or out of pressure. For example:
Such oaths are often spoken in anger or pride and are meaningless because humans do not have authority over these things. Jesus warned against this:
“But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God…” — Matthew 5:34
Instead, Jesus taught that we should speak simply and truthfully:
“Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” — Matthew 5:37
Therefore, Christians are encouraged to speak honestly and straightforwardly, letting their “yes” mean yes, and their “no” mean no (James 5:12):
“But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your ‘yes’ be yes and your ‘no’ be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.” — James 5:12
May God bless you as you seek to live with integrity and truth.
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ANSWER:
After Eve disobeyed God by eating the fruit from the tree He had forbidden, God pronounced judgments on the serpent, the woman, and the man. One specific consequence for the woman was this:
“Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.” — Genesis 3:16
At first glance, this might sound like romantic longing or affection, but a deeper theological and linguistic understanding reveals that it refers to something much more complex—a desire to control or dominate, leading to a power struggle in the marriage relationship.
When Satan tempted Eve in Genesis 3:5, he appealed to her ambition:
“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” — Genesis 3:5
This temptation stirred in her a desire to rise above her God-given position—to gain wisdom, power, and independence from God’s command. Theologically, this reflects the sin of pride, which is the root of many other sins (Isaiah 14:12–14; Proverbs 16:18). This desire to be “like God” was not just about knowledge, but about control and self-rule.
Adam, although created first (1 Timothy 2:13), did not display this same ambition. His failure was passivity, not pride. But for Eve, this desire for autonomy and dominance became central—and it was this tendency that God addressed when He said, “Your desire will be for your husband.”
The Hebrew word used here for desire is “teshuqah”, which appears only a few times in Scripture. The most relevant parallel is in Genesis 4:7, where God says to Cain:
“Sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” — Genesis 4:7
In both cases, the word “desire” (teshuqah) implies a controlling or dominating urge, and “rule” implies conflict over authority. This clearly shows that the “desire” mentioned in Genesis 3:16 is not about affection, but about power and influence—a struggle for control in the relationship.
This verse marks the beginning of relational disorder between man and woman—a distortion of God’s original design (Genesis 2:18–25). Sin introduced rivalry where there was once unity. The woman would desire to control, but the man, in turn, would dominate her—often harshly. This was not God’s original intent but a consequence of sin.
It’s crucial to understand that Genesis 3:16 is a description of the fallen condition, not a prescription for how relationships should be. It’s not God’s command for men to rule over women by force—it’s a revelation of what happens when sin governs relationships.
That’s why, in the New Testament, we see a redemptive model of marriage through Jesus Christ.
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” — Ephesians 5:25
“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.” — Ephesians 5:22
This isn’t oppression—it’s mutual submission under Christ (see Ephesians 5:21). Husbands are called to lead in love and self-sacrifice, not in domination or pride. Wives are called to follow in humility and trust, not in fear.
Through Jesus, we are no longer slaves to the consequences of sin. Christ became a curse for us, so that we could be free from the curse of the fall:
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us…” — Galatians 3:13
This means that in Christian marriage, the pattern of power struggle can be broken. Husbands no longer rule by force, and wives no longer compete for control. Instead, both serve each other in love and reverence for Christ.
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28
This verse doesn’t erase gender roles—it restores dignity and equality in Christ, removing the strife caused by sin.
So when God said, “Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you,” He was describing the broken dynamics of marriage after the fall. But through the gospel of Christ, we are invited to something better—a marriage built on grace, love, and servant leadership, modeled after Christ and His Church.
In Christ, the curse is overcome, and true unity between man and woman can be restored.
Be blessed. — Answer rooted in Genesis 3:16, Ephesians 5, Galatians 3:13 & 28
REAL-LIFE STORY:
My grandmother told me about her brother who once married a woman, but he mistreated her. Eventually, he abandoned her, even after they had a child together. As the woman returned to her family in Arusha, hurt and rejected, she said: “This man will marry twelve wives, and the twelfth will be like a hyena who will finish him off.” Now, years later, the man has already married six women and continues to remarry.
So the question is: Were her words being fulfilled through God, or are they being fulfilled through Satan? Or something else?
Human beings have God-given creative power in their words—especially when spoken with faith. But faith operates in three distinct ways, and each has different spiritual roots and implications.
This is the kind of faith that is built upon trust in God’s Word. It aligns with God’s will and operates through the Holy Spirit. For example, someone may rebuke a sickness in the name of Jesus, and healing occurs. Or speak life to a dead body, and it comes back to life (e.g., John 11:43-44 – Lazarus’ resurrection).
“So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Be removed and be cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart… he will have whatever he says.’” — Mark 11:22–23
This is God-centered faith, and it brings about divine results that glorify Him.
Satan also imitates spiritual power. Some people (e.g., witches, sorcerers, or spirit mediums) speak words or make declarations powered by demonic forces. In such cases, evil spirits work behind the scenes to fulfill those spoken curses or predictions.
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age…” — Ephesians 6:12
That’s why some words spoken in rituals, spells, or curses do manifest—but not by the power of God.
This is often overlooked, but it’s real. It’s the type of faith or determination that comes from the human spirit—not directly from God or Satan. For example, when you decide to raise your hand, it moves. When people dreamed of flying or reaching the moon, they achieved it through inner willpower—not divine intervention.
This inner faith can even affect circumstances. Someone may speak something out of strong emotion and inner belief, and if God does not intervene, that word may come to pass.
“…if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” — Matthew 17:20
Many parental blessings or curses fall under this category. Even unbelieving parents can speak powerful words over their children. Their authority and strong emotion can make those words effective—even without knowing God.
If the woman in the story wasn’t a Christian and wasn’t using dark powers, she may have spoken those words from a place of deep emotional pain and inner conviction. That kind of word, spoken with soul-level belief, can still come true—especially if God does not override it in His mercy.
That’s why the Bible warns us to be very careful with our words:
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” — Romans 12:1
We may not fully understand how deeply our words can affect others.
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue…”
Yes, a person can speak something—good or bad—and it comes to pass, even if it’s not from God. But whether that word is being fulfilled through divine faith, demonic influence, or human will depends on its source and spiritual backing.
Let us choose our words carefully and follow the example of Jesus, who said:
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you…” — Matthew 5:44
May the Lord guide your speech and protect you from every careless or harmful word. God bless you.
The Holy Spirit’s work in a person’s life happens gradually. When God chooses to draw a sinner toward Himself, He sends the Holy Spirit to convict that person of sin (John 16:8). This conviction makes the person aware of their need to repent and turn to God. At this stage, the Holy Spirit is like a guide walking alongside them — encouraging and drawing them closer, but not yet fully dwelling inside (John 14:16-17).
A helpful analogy is that of courtship. Imagine a man courting a woman: he shows kindness, gives gifts, speaks lovingly, and tries to win her heart. But until she accepts his marriage proposal, they are not united. Similarly, the Holy Spirit can reveal things to a person and guide them, but the full indwelling of the Spirit comes only after genuine repentance and baptism.
Why baptism?
Baptism is the public and spiritual act that symbolizes a person’s death to sin and resurrection to new life in Christ (Romans 6:3-4). It is the moment the Holy Spirit takes full residence in the believer’s heart, sealing them as God’s own (Ephesians 1:13-14).
The Bible clearly teaches that baptism is essential for receiving the Holy Spirit:
Ephesians 4:30 “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” This “sealing” is a spiritual mark of ownership and protection.
2 Corinthians 1:22 “He has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” The Holy Spirit is described as a “deposit,” confirming our relationship with God.
Romans 8:9 “You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”
This verse highlights that without the indwelling Spirit, a person is not truly part of Christ’s body.
When a person genuinely repents — turning from sin and accepting Christ’s sacrifice — and then receives baptism according to Scripture, the Holy Spirit comes to live within them fully. This is like a spiritual “marriage,” a permanent union sealed by baptism.
What about those who are baptized but still sin?
Some may argue, “I know people who were baptized properly but still live in sin.” The answer lies in understanding human free will and spiritual maturity. Baptism does not guarantee perfect behavior immediately but marks the beginning of a transformed life (Philippians 1:6). Some may have been baptized superficially or for social reasons, not truly repenting. The effectiveness of baptism depends on a sincere heart.
May God bless you as you seek His truth.
The Pharisees and Sadducees were two prominent Jewish sects during the Second Temple period (516 BC – 70 AD). Though both adhered to the Torah (the first five books of Moses), they held divergent theological beliefs, especially regarding the resurrection, the afterlife, and spiritual beings.
Beliefs:
Affirmed the resurrection of the dead, judgment, and life after death (Daniel 12:2).
Believed in angels, spirits, and the existence of a spiritual realm.
Accepted not only the Torah but also the Oral Law (later codified in the Talmud) as authoritative.
Anticipated the coming of a Messiah who would establish God’s kingdom.
Scripture Support:
“And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.”Daniel 12:2, ESV
“…the Pharisees acknowledge them all.”Acts 23:8, ESV
Beliefs:Denied the resurrection, angels, and spirits.
Rejected the Oral Law and only adhered strictly to the written Torah.
Did not believe in an afterlife or divine judgment beyond this life.
Jesus’ Rebuke (Matthew 22:23–33):Jesus directly addressed the Sadducees’ denial of resurrection. He reminded them that God is “the God of the living,” referring to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob indicating they are still alive in God’s presence.
“I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”Matthew 22:32, ESV
Paul’s Use of Their Division (Acts 23:6–10):The Apostle Paul, a former Pharisee, used the doctrinal divide between the two groups to protect himself from unjust trial:
“…‘Brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial.’”Acts 23:6, ESV
This statement caused conflict between the Pharisees and Sadducees, essentially diverting attention away from Paul.
The term “Greek” in the New Testament refers to different groups depending on context. It’s crucial to understand these distinctions to interpret Scripture accurately.
These were ethnically Jewish people who lived in Greek-speaking regions of the Roman Empire. They often adopted Greek customs and language while still practicing Judaism.
Example: John 12:20–21
“Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. So these came to Philip… and asked him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’”John 12:20–21, ESV
These “Greeks” were likely Hellenistic Jews or proselytes (Gentile converts to Judaism) who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover.
Example: Pentecost (Acts 2:5–11)On Pentecost, Jews from all over the Roman world, including Greek-speaking areas, were present:
“Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven.”Acts 2:5, ESV
These were non-Jewish people from Greek or Hellenistic backgrounds. In the New Testament, many of them were considered “God-fearers” Gentiles who were attracted to Jewish monotheism but not fully converted.
Example: The Syrophoenician Woman (Mark 7:26)
“Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter.”Mark 7:26, ESV
Though she was a Gentile, Jesus honored her faith, showing that salvation would also be extended to the nations.
Titus and Timothy
Pharisees were strict interpreters of the Law who also believed in resurrection, angels, and the spiritual world.
Sadducees were more aristocratic and skeptical, denying the resurrection and spiritual beings, accepting only the Torah.
Greeks in the New Testament may refer to either Hellenistic Jews or Gentiles from the Greek world.
Be blessed!
Shalom! To answer this question properly, we must begin with a foundational truth: God is omnipresent He exists everywhere and nothing is hidden from Him, not even the realm of darkness.
In Psalm 139:7–12 (ESV), David declares:
“Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!… Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.” (vv. 7–12)
This psalm reveals God’s unlimited reach and knowledge even the darkest, most hidden places are fully exposed to Him. This truth establishes that God can intervene or speak in any context, including situations involving darkness or rebellion.
Scripture reveals three main “realms” or “kingdoms” active in creation:
The Kingdom of God – The highest authority; holy, eternal, and sovereign (Luke 1:33, Matthew 6:10).
The kingdom of darkness – Governed by Satan, active in deception, witchcraft, rebellion, and sin (Colossians 1:13, Ephesians 6:12).
The kingdom of man – The physical realm we inhabit, influenced by the above two (Genesis 1:28, Romans 5:12).
Each of these realms has its own jurisdiction and influence, but only God’s Kingdom is supreme. He alone has full authority over all creation (Psalm 103:19).
“The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all.” Psalm 103:19 (ESV)
Even Satan acknowledged a form of temporal control over the earthly kingdoms when tempting Jesus:
“All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Matthew 4:9 (ESV)
This was not an empty boast. While God is sovereign, He allows limited authority to Satan within boundaries He controls (Job 1:12, Luke 22:31–32).
In 1 Samuel 28, King Saul, having lost favor with God and no longer hearing from Him through prophets, dreams, or the Urim, sought out a medium the so-called “Witch of Endor.” This was a direct violation of God’s Law:
“Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:31 (ESV)
“There shall not be found among you anyone who… practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens… For whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.” Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (ESV)
Despite this rebellion, something unusual happened Samuel appeared and spoke to Saul.
Now, theologians differ on whether this was truly the spirit of Samuel or a demon impersonating him. But the text itself (1 Samuel 28:12–20) strongly suggests God allowed Samuel to appear, not as a sign of approval, but as an act of judgment:
“Why then do you ask me, since the Lord has turned from you and become your enemy?” 1 Samuel 28:16 (ESV)
This was not divine endorsement of witchcraft. Rather, it was God using even a forbidden situation to declare judgment on Saul. Saul was already condemned for his disobedience (1 Samuel 15:23), and consulting a medium sealed his fate.
Theologically, yes God can speak through or in any circumstance, even in places or through means that are not godly. Why? Because He is sovereign (Romans 8:28, Daniel 4:35). But that does not mean He approves of the method or that the person is right with God.
In Numbers 22, Balaam, a pagan prophet skilled in divination, hears directly from God. God even uses Balaam’s donkey to speak a message! But Balaam’s intentions were corrupt, and he later led Israel into sin (Numbers 31:16). Despite hearing God’s voice, Balaam was ultimately killed in judgment (Joshua 13:22).
Lesson: Hearing from God is not the same as being right with God.
People who turn to witchcraft, fortune-telling, or other occult practices are not genuinely seeking God they’re usually looking for quick fixes to life’s problems. But Scripture warns:
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” – Proverbs 14:12 (ESV)
Saul didn’t go to the medium to seek God he went to get answers that God had withheld. This is a warning: trying to reach God through forbidden means invites judgment, not blessing.
God’s true method of communication and reconciliation with man is through His Son, Jesus Christ.
“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Timothy 2:5 (NKJV)“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6 (ESV)
Any attempt to approach God through idols, the occult, or alternative spiritual paths is rebellion and leads to destruction even if “answers” seem to come. Those answers are often deceptive or come with spiritual consequences (2 Thessalonians 2:9–12).
Yes, God is able to speak in any situation—even through darkness—because He is omnipresent and sovereign. However, that does not mean He endorses or approves of the methods used.
When He does choose to speak in such contexts, it is often a warning or a final word of judgment, not favor or guidance.
Key truth: God’s answers will never contradict His Word.
To seek God properly, we must come through faith in Jesus Christ, with a humble heart, and in obedience to His Word. Any other way is dangerous and leads away from truth.
Scripture References Used:
Psalm 139:7–12 – God’s Omnipresence (ESV)
1 Samuel 28:6–20 – Saul and the Medium of Endor (ESV)
Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10–12 – Prohibition of Witchcraft (ESV)
Numbers 22–24, 31:16, Joshua 13:22 – The story of Balaam
John 14:6, 1 Timothy 2:5 – Christ as the only way to God (ESV/NKJV)
Proverbs 14:12 – Deceptive paths (ESV)
2 Thessalonians 2:9–12 – Deceptive spiritual experiences (NIV
ANSWER:First, we must understand that it is not God’s will for us to experience suffering or evil. However, there are challenges and hardships that God allows for a purpose. These may be to teach us, show us His glory, or warn us. Ultimately, these hardships can lead to a good outcome, which is why the Apostle Paul wrote in
2 Corinthians 12:9:“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
There are also troubles caused by humans themselves. These are choices we make, and God cannot prevent all of them because He has given us free will. Just like a wise parent may give advice to a child who is about to make a wrong decision, but cannot force them to listen, God allows us to make our own choices. Even though He sees the consequences, He does not force us to obey. If we choose wrongly, He may warn us, but He respects our freedom to choose.
This is the same with God. He sees the harm that could come to us and wishes to prevent it, but the decision to follow or not is ours. God will warn us and show us the potential outcomes of our choices, but the decision to listen or ignore that advice is ultimately up to us.
God has given us the ability to choose. If a person chooses to continue in sin despite God’s warnings, He cannot force them to stop. For example, if someone continues in sinful behavior like adultery, even though God has clearly said that such people will not inherit the kingdom of God, He allows them to make that choice. While God knows the end result of their actions, He does not force them to change.
Even when Satan turned away from God, God warned him but did not force him to repent. Satan’s decision to rebel was his own choice. And similarly, we have the freedom to choose whether to follow God’s guidance or not. God does not force us.
God created us with the ability to make decisions. He gives us the option to accept or reject His advice. He is always there to warn us, guide us, and help us avoid the consequences of evil, but He will not force us to follow Him.
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QUESTION: After Cain killed his brother Abel, he fled to the land of Nod. I would like to understand, where did he find a wife and have children with her? (Genesis 4:16).
ANSWER: If you read Genesis 5:1-5 (NIV), it says:
“1 This is the written account of Adam’s family line. When God created mankind, he made them in the likeness of God.2 He created them male and female and blessed them. And he named them ‘Mankind’ when they were created.3 When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image; and he named him Seth.4 After Seth was born, Adam lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters.5 Altogether, Adam lived a total of 930 years, and then he died.”
If you carefully examine verse 4, you will see that, in addition to Cain and Abel, Adam and Eve had other sons and daughters. This means that Cain likely married one of his sisters or possibly a niece, as the Bible does not mention any other people being created by God at this point. The assumption that Cain married a wild animal or a non-human being is not supported by Scripture. Instead, it appears Cain took a wife from his own family.
In the early days of human history, there were no prohibitions against such marriages. The idea that one should not marry close relatives, such as siblings, came much later in the history of humanity. This leads to another important question: Was it lawful for Cain to marry a close relative, such as his sister?
ANSWER: Remember, Adam himself did not take a wife from another family, but from his own side. The Bible records that Eve was taken from Adam’s rib (Genesis 2:21-23). In terms of kinship, Adam and Eve’s relationship was more akin to a deep unity than the relationship between a brother and sister. Early on, God allowed such unions for the purpose of procreation, as humanity was still in its infancy and needed to multiply and fill the earth. The first humans were created to populate the earth, and there were no other people available at the time for marriage.
However, as humanity grew, the need for such unions decreased, and God later issued commandments forbidding incestuous relationships. This is seen in the Levitical laws given to the Israelites much later, after the human population had expanded significantly.
Leviticus 18:6 (NIV) says: “No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord.”
Additionally, Leviticus 18:9 (NIV) states: “Do not have sexual relations with your sister, either your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether she was born in the same home or elsewhere.”
These laws were given to protect human health, moral integrity, and to establish a clear social structure for the growing human population. In the beginning, though, God allowed for such unions to ensure the survival and expansion of mankind.
To clarify, marrying a close relative was not uncommon in the early days of humanity, as there were no other options. But with the passage of time and the growth of the human race, God’s laws evolved to prohibit incest and ensure the well-being of future generations.
In summary: Cain most likely married one of his sisters or a close relative, as Adam and Eve had many other children. This practice was permissible early on, but later, God gave explicit commandments forbidding marriage between close relatives, which are still relevant today.
Blessings to you.
Answer: Some Christians wonder whether seeking medical treatment or using herbal remedies shows a lack of faith. But when we look at Scripture, we see that taking care of our physical health is not only acceptable it is also consistent with God’s provision and wisdom.
In Mark 2:17 (NIV), Jesus said: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
In Mark 2:17 (NIV), Jesus said:
“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Jesus used the role of a physician to explain His mission, implying that it is natural and right for sick people to seek help from doctors. By doing so, He affirmed the value of medical care. Going to the hospital does not mean a Christian lacks faith it simply means they are making use of the resources God has provided.
Many modern medicines are derived from plants that God created. In the Old Testament, God instructed His people to use natural elements in healing. For example:
Ezekiel 47:12 (NIV): Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.”
Ezekiel 47:12 (NIV):
Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.”
Revelation 22:2 (NIV): And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”
Revelation 22:2 (NIV):
And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”
This shows that God has placed healing properties in creation. Using herbal remedies like neem (mwarobaini) or aloe vera is not unspiritual; it is using God-given wisdom as long as it is done with the right motives and without involving ungodly rituals.
What God strictly forbids is associating healing with unbiblical spiritual practices. When someone is told to sacrifice an animal, chant incantations, or place herbs under the bed as a ritual, they are entering the realm of idolatry. These practices violate the first commandment:
Exodus 20:3 (NIV): “You shall have no other gods before me.”
Exodus 20:3 (NIV):
“You shall have no other gods before me.”
Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NIV): Let no one be found among you who…practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft…Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”
Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NIV):
Let no one be found among you who…practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft…Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”
A Christian must not rely on or mix their faith with superstitions or occult practices. However, preparing and using herbs at home while praying in the name of Jesus is entirely acceptable.
Colossians 3:17 (NIV): And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:17 (NIV):
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
There are believers who trust God for healing without any physical means choosing not to go to a doctor or use medicine. Their faith rests entirely in God’s supernatural power.
Matthew 8:17 (NIV): He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.”
Matthew 8:17 (NIV):
He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.”
Psalm 103:2–3 (NIV): Praise the Lord, my soul…who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”
Psalm 103:2–3 (NIV):
Praise the Lord, my soul…who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”
This too is acceptable, because God can heal both through natural means and by His divine power. The key is that each believer should act in faith, according to their conviction, not out of fear or superstition.
Romans 14:23 (NIV): “everything that does not come from faith is sin.”
Romans 14:23 (NIV):
“everything that does not come from faith is sin.”
Conclusion:
Whether through hospitals, herbal remedies, or supernatural healing, God is the ultimate source of all healing. What matters is that we trust Him, act in faith, and avoid anything that dishonors Him.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV): “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV):
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Luke 14:26 (NKJV): “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”
Luke 14:26 (NKJV):
“If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”
Understanding the Meaning: Jesus’ use of the word “hate” in this passage is not a call to animosity or hostility, which would contradict His command to love others — including one’s enemies (Matthew 5:44). Instead, He uses hyperbolic language (a common Jewish teaching method) to emphasize the cost of discipleship and the priority of loyalty to Him over all other relationships.
This idea is supported
in Matthew 10:37 (NKJV): “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.”
Here, Jesus clarifies His meaning: our love for Him must surpass our love for family — not eliminate it. This means that if there’s ever a conflict between God’s will and our family’s expectations, our obedience to Christ must come first.
Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NKJV): “There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer… For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord.”
Even if family or cultural traditions demand participation in sinful practices like divination, ancestral rituals, or drunkenness, a true disciple must stand firm in God’s truth. Seeking to please family at the cost of disobeying God is idolatry — putting others before Him.
Galatians 1:10 (NKJV): “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”
Some resist biblical baptism — by full immersion in the name of Jesus Christ — due to pressure from family or religious traditions. Yet Scripture clearly teaches:
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.'” John 3:5 (NKJV): “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
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.'”
John 3:5 (NKJV): “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
Obeying Christ must take precedence over denominational loyalty or family expectations. Jesus warned about those who reject the will of God because of fear of others:
John 12:42–43 (NKJV): “Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.”
Following Christ requires sacrifice. Jesus never promised that discipleship would be easy or socially accepted. In fact, He made it clear:
Luke 14:27 (NKJV): “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”
This means dying to self, enduring rejection, and being willing to lose everything — even relationships — for the sake of the Gospel.
Philippians 3:8 (NKJV): “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
Discipleship demands full surrender. We must not let the fear of family, culture, or human opinion prevent us from obeying the commands of Jesus. He alone is Lord, and His Word is final.
Colossians 3:23–24 (NKJV): “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
May the Lord grant us grace and courage to obey Him fully — even when it costs us dearly.
Amen.