Title 2019

Did the Apostle Paul Get Married?

Originally, the Apostle Paul was called Saul. After encountering the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus, his life was radically transformed (Acts 9:1-19 ). He then took the name Paul and became a key figure in spreading the Gospel.

Paul was born in Tarsus, a significant city in Cilicia (modern-day Turkey), and was a Roman citizen by birth (Acts 22:3-28). He was Jewish, from the tribe of Benjamin, and identified as a Pharisee—a group devoted to strict observance of the Mosaic Law (Philippians 3:5):

“circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee.”

Paul’s Singleness and Its Purpose

Paul chose to remain unmarried (1 Corinthians 7:7-8) to dedicate himself fully to the work of the Gospel without divided interests or distractions. He explains his reasoning in 1 Corinthians 7:32-33

“I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife.”

This teaching reflects a theological understanding that singleness can allow greater devotion to God’s service. Paul’s choice mirrors that of other key biblical figures like John the Baptist (Luke 1:15) and the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 19:10,13), who also remained unmarried and were wholly devoted to God’s mission.

Paul’s Ministry and Legacy

The Bible emphasizes that John the Baptist was the greatest prophet before Christ (Matthew 11:11):

“Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist.”

Elijah is noted for being taken to heaven without experiencing death (2 Kings 2:11), a sign of his special prophetic role.

Similarly, Paul is recognized as the apostle who labored more extensively than any before him, carrying the Gospel to Gentiles and establishing many churches (1 Corinthians 15:10):

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.”

Paul’s singleness was a deliberate, Spirit-led choice that enabled him to serve God’s mission with undivided devotion and impact the early church profoundly.

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DREAMING ABOUT TRAVELING

Before rushing to interpret your dreams, it’s important to first gain understanding about the different types of dreams. When you know what category your dream falls into, you can more easily interpret it on your own, without necessarily needing the help of others. This understanding is key because dreams can hold spiritual significance.

If your dream isn’t simply related to your daily life or the environment around you, and it recurs frequently, it may be that God is trying to communicate something to you. Dreams can be a form of divine revelation. The Bible teaches us that God speaks in dreams, and we should pay attention to them when they seem to carry meaning beyond mere subconscious processing.

Job 33:14-16 (NIV) says,

For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while slumbering on their beds, then He opens the ears of men, and seals their instruction.”

Here, Job is emphasizing that God speaks to us in dreams, often when we are least distracted and in a deep state of rest. The recurring theme in scripture is that God uses dreams and visions to give direction, warning, or encouragement.

Through this, God is reminding you that your time on earth is temporary. You are on a journey, and everything you encounter here should be seen in that context—nothing in this world is meant to last forever. This life is but a passing moment in light of eternity, and God often uses dreams to shift our perspective.

Consider that, on a journey, even when you stop to rest, eat, or refresh yourself, it’s brief—perhaps only 10 to 15 minutes. Then the journey continues. The idea is that life moves forward, and dwelling too long on distractions or stopping at a particular point can cause you to miss your destination. Similarly, you cannot afford to become too attached to the temporary things of this world. To do so is to neglect the ongoing journey of your spiritual walk with God. This is the message God imparts to us: do not get sidetracked by worldly things that will soon fade away.

Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) further underscores this:

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

God is essentially teaching you through these dreams not to focus too much on earthly pursuits that distract us from His eternal plan. We are reminded that we are pilgrims on this earth, not to set our hearts too firmly on the things that will soon pass away.

Isaiah 35:8 (NIV)

also speaks to this journey:

And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; the unclean will not travel on it; it will be for those who walk in that way; the wicked fools will not go about on it.”

This “Way of Holiness” is a spiritual journey, a path that leads to eternal life. It’s for the righteous—those who walk in the ways of God. As believers, we are called to walk this path, understanding that the journey may be difficult but it leads to eternal rewards.

Reflecting on your own life, ask yourself: What is driving you? Is it the busyness of the world, keeping you from spending time with God? Is it the desire for material wealth or pleasure? Scripture warns us against these distractions.

1 John 2:15-17 (NIV) says,

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”

And in 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NIV),

Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.”

This passage highlights that as believers, we are called to live as “foreigners and exiles”—reminding us that this world is not our home. We must focus on living a righteous life, which reflects our eternal citizenship in heaven, rather than getting caught up in worldly temptations.

God is showing you these dreams because He loves you and wants to guide you on your journey. Don’t ignore His voice. If you’re distant from Jesus, now is the time to draw near to Him. Repent of your sins, surrender your life to Him, and be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins, as commanded in Acts 2:38. When you do this, God will give you the Holy Spirit to help you along your journey, and you will be certain of your eternal security.

John 14:6 (NIV) says,

Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Jesus is the only way to the Father, and He alone will guide you on your spiritual journey.

If you’re already in Christ and feel you lack nothing, know that God still wants you to focus on your spiritual journey more than anything else. He has prepared a great reward for those who remain faithful, and this reward is eternal. In 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV), Paul speaks of the reward awaiting those who remain faithful:

2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV),

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.”

Be encouraged, and remember that this earthly life is temporary. Stay focused on the journey ahead and the eternal reward God has prepared for you.

Be blessed

 

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“A DREAM ABOUT PREGNANCY”

 

If you lack a clear understanding of dreams, you may unintentionally stray from God’s purpose for your life. Many people wander from one interpretation to another, looking for answers, but it’s crucial to recognize that all dreams ultimately fall into one of three categories:

  1. Dreams from God

  2. Dreams from Satan

  3. Dreams from our own thoughts and experiences

Dreams that arise from our own minds are influenced by what we experience daily, the environment we are in, and the things we think about constantly. These dreams make up the majority of our nightly visions—about 95% of the dreams we have. These dreams usually don’t carry a deep spiritual message, but many people, lacking understanding, seek interpretations for every dream. The Bible teaches that not every dream has divine significance.

Ecclesiastes 5:3 says,

“For a dream comes with much business and a fool’s voice with many words.”

This verse implies that most dreams stem from our daily concerns and are not necessarily from God.

Once you understand how to categorize dreams, interpreting them will be much easier. I encourage you to first grasp this principle, and then we can proceed with deeper understanding.

>> HOW CAN I TELL IF A DREAM IS FROM GOD OR SATAN?

When it comes to dreaming about pregnancy, if the dream doesn’t arise from your daily activities, thoughts, or environment, it might hold deeper meaning. It’s important to remember that dreams about pregnancy are particularly common among women, given that many women long for children. The desire for motherhood or living with a pregnant person can easily influence dreams, making them more likely to be connected to personal thoughts rather than divine messages.

James 1:14-15 tells us,

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”

This reminds us that many dreams reflect our own desires and thoughts, not necessarily a divine message.

However, if the dream doesn’t seem to stem from these personal sources, it could be significant. In the Bible, pregnancy often symbolizes the conception of something new—whether a divine calling, purpose, or judgment.

Pregnancy, whether it comes through righteous or sinful means, always leads to the birth of something new. The Bible speaks to this idea in Isaiah 66:9, where God says, “Shall I bring to the point of birth and not cause to bring forth?” This demonstrates that when God allows something to be conceived, it will ultimately come to fruition.

If your dream is recurring, pay close attention to it. In Scripture, repeating dreams were often significant. For example, Pharaoh had two dreams that were similar in nature but different in form—one about seven years of plenty and the other about seven years of famine. The Bible says in Genesis 41:32, “And the doubling of Pharaoh’s dream means that the thing is fixed by God, and God will shortly bring it about.” This repetition confirmed that the dream was from God and was meant to be heeded.

Similarly, if you repeatedly dream of being pregnant, it could be a divine message urging you to pay attention to what is about to come to fruition in your life.

What Should You Do?

Since you know your own life better than anyone else, spend some quiet time in prayer and reflection. Consider where you are in life—whether in your ministry, family, or career. Have you recently made a decision that might soon bear fruit? Is there something you have been waiting for or praying about?

If you’ve been praying to God for something, trust that He will answer.

In Romans 4:18-19, it says of Abraham,

“In hope, he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, ‘So shall your offspring be.’ He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah’s womb.”

Even when the situation seemed impossible, Abraham remained hopeful. Like him, if you are trusting God for something, keep your faith in His timing and plan.

Consider also the example of Sarah, who waited long for the fulfillment of God’s promise.

In Genesis 18:14, God asks her,

“Is anything too hard for the Lord?”

This verse reassures us that God can bring about what seems impossible at the appointed time.

But if you are living in sin and your actions are not aligned with God’s will, you should take this time to repent. The Bible teaches that sin can bring forth destructive results. In Proverbs 1:31, it says,

“Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices.”

If you are living in ways that are displeasing to God, the consequences of sin will eventually come to light, just as pregnancy ultimately leads to birth.

James 1:15 reminds us that sin, when fully conceived, brings forth death. If you are living in sin, take time to repent and return to God

. 1 John 1:9 assures us,

if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Conclusion

If you are walking in righteousness and have been waiting on God for a good thing, stay hopeful. Trust that God will bring forth the fruit of your prayers in due season.

The Bible assures us in Galatians 6:9,

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Stay in faith and expect God’s blessings to manifest in your life.

Blessings to you

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Who Is a Saint?

Many people think of a saint as someone who is morally perfect, who never sins, and always does good works. This is the common, worldly view. However, the Bible presents a deeper and more accurate understanding.

The Problem of Sin

The Bible teaches that all humans have sinned and fall short of God’s perfect standard. Sin is not just a mistake but a condition that separates us from God (Romans 3:23). Because of sin, no one can claim to be truly righteous by their own efforts or good deeds.

Romans 3:23— “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

This universal sinfulness means no one can stand before God and be considered holy on the basis of their own righteousness (Isaiah 64:6). Even the best human deeds are like “filthy rags” before God.

Jesus Christ — The Only True Saint

The Bible identifies Jesus Christ as the only sinless person who ever lived. He is uniquely holy because He was born without sin (born of a virgin) and lived a perfect life (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus alone fulfills the holiness required to stand before God.

Hebrews 4:15 — “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

Because of His sinless life and sacrificial death, Jesus is called “holy” (Acts 3:14). He alone meets God’s standard of holiness and righteousness.

Our Position “In Christ”

The good news (the Gospel) is that through faith in Jesus, God counts us as righteous and holy—not because of our own works, but because of Jesus’ righteousness credited to us (imputed righteousness).

Romans 3:24 — “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”

This means when we believe in Jesus, God sees us “in Christ.” Our sins are forgiven, and His righteousness covers us, like a garment. This is called justification by faith.

Isaiah 61:10 — “He has clothed me with garments of salvation; he has covered me with a robe of righteousness.”

This transformation is not about becoming morally perfect instantly, but about being declared holy before God because of Jesus.

Who Are the Saints?

According to the Bible, saints are those who belong to Christ—those who have been set apart by God through faith.

Psalm 16:3 — “As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”

The New Testament often refers to all believers as saints (Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2), emphasizing their identity in Christ, not their moral perfection.

What About Sin After Salvation?

Being “in Christ” does not mean we are free to keep sinning deliberately. True believers are transformed by the Holy Spirit, who helps them grow in holiness and turn away from sin.

1 John 3:9 — “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God.”

Romans 6:1–2 — “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?”

When we accept Jesus, we receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38), who guides us into all truth (John 16:13) and empowers us to live a godly life.

May God bless you as you grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ!

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Choose the Path of Life

When we carefully observe God’s creation, we see a pattern of pairs or opposites that show His perfect design and balance. For example, the human body has two symmetrical halves—left and right—which mirror each other. This shows God’s order and harmony in creation (Genesis 1:27).

Similarly, there are two sides to light: day and night (Genesis 1:4-5). These opposites are balanced so that day and night have equal importance in God’s created order.

Beyond physical opposites, there are two spiritual realities that are foundational in life: Life and Death. Both were part of God’s original plan. Death was not a mistake or a punishment created by chance; rather, it served a divine purpose in maintaining balance in the world (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2).

For example, if death had never existed, the plants and fruits Adam and Eve ate would not have been able to complete their natural cycle of growth and decay. Without death, the earth could not be cultivated or managed, and creation would stagnate (Genesis 2:15).

Therefore, death plays a crucial role in God’s created order—allowing old life to pass away and making room for new life in a continuous cycle (Psalm 90:10).

However, man was created for eternal life (Genesis 2:7; Ecclesiastes 12:7). In the Garden of Eden, Adam was given the gift of life alone. Death entered only after Adam and Eve sinned by disobeying God’s command (Genesis 3:17-19; Romans 5:12). This introduced mortality into human experience—a consequence, but not part of the original perfect creation.

Jesus Christ came to reverse the effects of sin and death. Through His death and resurrection, He defeated death and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him:

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.
And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.’”
John 11:25–26

Jesus is the only way to eternal life and the true conqueror of death (John 14:6; Hebrews 2:14-15). No other power or deity has authority over death or the grave.

The Apostle Paul writes:

“For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet.
The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.”
1 Corinthians 15:25–26

Without the hope of eternal life, human existence loses ultimate meaning (Ecclesiastes 1:2). We are called to choose life now—through faith in Jesus Christ (Deuteronomy 30:19; Romans 6:23).

What profit is it to gain wealth or success in this life but lose your soul or face eternal death? (Mark 8:36)

Seeking God and His eternal kingdom first is wisdom (Matthew 6:33). Eternal life is a priceless gift, secured only by Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.

“And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.”
1 John 5:11–12

May God bless you richly as you choose the path of life through Jesus Christ!

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“Anyone Who Doesn’t Work Shouldn’t Eat” — What Does the Bible Really Mean?

2 Thessalonians 3:10 says:

“For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.’”

At face value, this may seem harsh, but when we understand the context behind this verse, we realize it’s not about being cruel—it’s about encouraging responsibility within the Body of Christ.


Context: The Early Church and Community Life

In the early church, believers practiced a form of communal living. Everyone shared what they had to support one another, especially those in need.

Acts 2:44–45 
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.”

The early Christians were not selfish; they were known for their generosity. But this generosity also attracted people who refused to work, yet still expected to benefit from the church’s support.

This created a burden on the community. Instead of contributing, these individuals became idle—choosing to live off the work and giving of others.


Faith and Responsibility Go Together

Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, saw the danger of such behavior. He gave the church a firm instruction: if someone is capable of working but refuses to do so, they should not expect to be supported by the church.

This teaching is grounded in the theology of stewardship and accountability. Work is not a punishment; it is a God-given duty. When God created Adam, He placed him in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). Work was part of God’s plan for mankind even before the fall.

Paul expands on this in the same chapter:

2 Thessalonians 3:11–12 
“We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat.”

Here, we see that laziness not only creates dependency but also opens the door to disorder and distraction within the church.


Caring for the Truly Needy: A Balanced View

Paul was not against helping the needy. In fact, he wrote instructions for the church to care for widows, the elderly, and the helpless:

1 Timothy 5:3, 9–10 
“Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need… No widow may be put on the list unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds…”

In other words, the church should prioritize true need, not enable laziness. God’s justice and mercy walk hand in hand. The church is called to be generous, but also wise in its stewardship.


Spiritual Application Today: Glorifying God Through Work

As believers today, we are called to reflect God’s character through our lives—including our work ethic. Paul writes:

Colossians 3:23–24 
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Work, when done with the right heart, becomes an act of worship. It honors God, supports others, and gives us dignity. Laziness, on the other hand, not only hurts others—it damages our own spiritual growth.

The message of “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” is not about being heartless—it’s about building a healthy, responsible, and God-honoring community.

  • It protects the church from being overwhelmed.
  • It encourages believers to take personal responsibility.
  • And it ensures that help is reserved for those who truly need it.

In Christ, we are called to serve, work diligently, and care for one another—but in a way that promotes both compassion and accountability.

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Understanding How to Pray

One of the first questions people often ask after giving their lives to Jesus Christ is:

“How do I pray?” or “What should I say so that God hears me?”

The good news is this: prayer is not about using perfect words or following a rigid formula. God is not like people who need long explanations to understand us. He is our loving Heavenly Father, and He knows us deeply.

“For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”Matthew 6:8

This means that even before we speak, God already understands what we need. We don’t need special training to pray—we just need to come to Him sincerely.


Why Prayer Matters

  1. Prayer is a relationship, not a ritual.
    It’s not about how long or elegant your words are, but about your connection to God as His child.

    “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.”Galatians 3:26

  2. Through prayer, we participate in God’s will on earth.
    Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s purposes.

    “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”Matthew 6:10


The Model Prayer Jesus Gave (Matthew 6:9–13)

Jesus didn’t leave us guessing. He gave us a pattern for prayer—commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer. Let’s break it down theologically and practically:


1. “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name”

We begin prayer by recognizing God’s holiness and majesty. He is not only powerful, but personal—a Father who loves us.

“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”John 4:24


2. “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”

We submit to God’s will, not our own. We don’t just pray for what we want—we pray for what God wants, because His plans are perfect.

“Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”Psalm 37:4
“Not My will, but Yours, be done.”Luke 22:42


3. “Give us this day our daily bread”

This is where we bring our personal needs to God—food, shelter, clothing, work, and opportunities. He cares for every detail of our lives.

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:19


4. “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”

Prayer involves confession and forgiveness. We must ask God to forgive our sins, but also forgive others. Unforgiveness blocks our prayers.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.”1 John 1:9
“But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”Matthew 6:15


5. “Do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one”

We ask God to protect us from falling into sin and to shield us from Satan’s attacks. The enemy is real, and spiritual warfare is part of the Christian life.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8


6. “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen”

We end by acknowledging God’s sovereignty—He rules over all. Everything we have, everything we need, and all power belongs to Him.

“To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”1 Peter 5:11
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.”Revelation 22:13

Don’t focus on using perfect words or the “right” language. God sees your heart. Just make sure your prayer includes:

  • Honor and praise to God
  • A desire for His will
  • Requests for daily needs
  • A heart of forgiveness
  • Protection from sin and evil
  • Thanksgiving and surrender

That’s what real, powerful prayer looks like. Prayer is not performance—it’s a relationship with the living God.

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”James 5:16

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What Was the First Church in the World?

The term church comes from the Greek word “ekklesia”, which means “called out ones.” It does not refer to a building, but to a people—a community of believers who have been called out of darkness into God’s marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). Therefore, the church is not a physical structure, but a spiritual body of believers united in Christ.

The Birth of the Church: Pentecost

According to the Bible, the true church was born on the Day of Pentecost, following the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. On that day, as Jesus had promised (John 14:16–17; Acts 1:8), the Holy Spirit descended upon the believers who were gathered in Jerusalem. This marked the beginning of the New Covenant church, empowered by the Spirit to carry out the mission of God.

In Acts 2, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, preached to a large crowd, explaining that what they were witnessing was the fulfillment of prophecy:

But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God,

That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh…’

(Acts 2:16–17 NKJV)

The result of Peter’s sermon was powerful:

 Acts 2:37–42 (NKJV):

37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

38 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.

39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”

40 And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.”

41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.

42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.

These four pillars—apostolic teaching, fellowship, the Lord’s Supper, and prayer—became the foundation of the early church, not buildings or hierarchy, but spiritual devotion and obedience to Christ. 

The Roman Catholic Church: A Later Institution

The Roman Catholic Church, which is often mistakenly referred to as the “first church,” did not emerge until centuries later. It was officially institutionalized during the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, long after the apostolic era had ended. While it claims apostolic succession, many of its doctrines and practices significantly depart from the teaching and simplicity of the early church.

Here are key theological concerns:

1. Apostolic Teaching (Doctrine)

The true early church remained faithful to the doctrine of Christ and His apostles (2 John 1:9). However, the Catholic Church introduced doctrines not found in Scripture, such as:

Veneration of Saints and Images:

Scripture clearly warns against idol worship and the use of images in worship:

You shall not make for yourself a carved image… You shall not bow down to them nor serve them.

(Exodus 20:4–5)

Multiple Mediators:

The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man:

For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.

(1 Timothy 2:5)

In contrast, Catholic teaching elevates Mary as co-mediatrix, a title and role not supported by Scripture.

2. The Breaking of Bread (The Lord’s Supper)

In the early church, every believer shared in the Lord’s Supper regularly (Acts 2:46). Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 11 that communion is a remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice, and it is to be taken by all who believe, not just by priests.

However, Catholicism restricts communion to those deemed worthy by the clergy, and often only the priest drinks the wine, which is contrary to Jesus’ instruction:

Drink from it, all of you.

(Matthew 26:27)

3. Fellowship Among Believers

The early church emphasized unity, love, and shared life (Acts 2:44–47). Fellowship was not based on status, office, or ritual, but on mutual devotion and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

In contrast, the Catholic structure introduced a hierarchical system that often distances clergy from laity, creating spiritual dependency on priests rather than on Christ and the community of believers.

4. Prayer and Worship

Prayer in the early church was direct, sincere, and Spirit-led (Acts 4:24–31; Philippians 4:6). Believers prayed directly to God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ, as Jesus taught (John 16:23–24).

Yet in Catholic tradition, many prayers are directed to Mary and saints, often repeated using rosaries, which resembles pagan prayer practices Jesus warned against:

And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do.

(Matthew 6:7)

Moreover, the emphasis on statues, relics, and incense in worship mirrors Old Testament shadows that were fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 10:1)

Conclusion

The first true church was not a building or a religious institution—it was a living, Spirit-filled community of believers who had repented, been baptized, and were walking in obedience to the apostles’ teaching.

Any church that departs from the foundation of Scripture, Christ-centered worship, the fellowship of believers, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit must be measured against the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Related Topics for Deeper Study:

  • Who Is Mary According to the Bible?
  • What Is the Liberty of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:17)?
  • Is the Virgin Mary the Queen of Heaven? (Compare with Jeremiah 7:18)
  • Is It Biblical to Call Mary the Mother of God? (Luke 1:43; John 1:1,14)

 

 

 

 

 

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Who is Jesus, according to the bible?

This is a question that not only confuses many today, but has perplexed generations for centuries even during Jesus’ own time here on Earth.

In fact, one day Jesus Himself asked His disciples the same question:

Matthew 16:13-15

  • NKJV: When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”
  • NIV: When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”

They answered:
Verse 14

  • Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.

Then Jesus asked a more personal question:

Verse 15

  • “But who do you say that I am?”

If Jesus were to ask you that question today, how would you answer?
You’d likely hear a variety of responses:

  • “He is a prophet.”
  • “A messenger of God.”
  • “A good teacher.”
  • “The Savior.”
  • “God in the flesh.”

These answers reflect people’s perspectives but do they reflect God’s truth?


Knowing Jesus Based on Relationship

Imagine you’re standing with your boss in front of 1,000 people from different walks of life. You ask each one to describe your boss.

You might hear:

  • “He’s my uncle.”
  • “He’s my neighbor.”
  • “He’s my chairman.”
  • “He’s my brother-in-law.”
  • “He’s my father.”
  • “He’s a friend.”

None of them are necessarily wrong they’re simply describing your boss based on their relationship with him. But if you asked them to describe him in his official role, you’d expect them to say “He is the boss.”

Likewise, people can call Jesus many things: prophet, teacher, leader, Son of God. But what does God want us to know and declare about Jesus?


Peter’s Revelation

Matthew 16:16-18

  • NKJV: Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
  • NIV: Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus responded:

Verse 17

  • “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.”

Verse 18

  • “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”

The revelation Peter had.Jesus is the Christ was not from human reasoning but from God Himself. And this truth is the rock upon which Jesus builds His church.


What Does It Mean That Jesus Is “The Christ”?

The word “Christ” (Greek: Christos) means “The Anointed One” or “The Messiah.” It refers to the One specially chosen and anointed by God to redeem mankind.

So when we declare Jesus as “the Christ,” we are acknowledging:

  • He is the Savior of the world.
  • He is God’s Son, sent to rescue us from sin and death.
  • He is the only way to the Father.

John 14:6

  • NKJV: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
  • NIV: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

So, Who Is Jesus to You?

Now that you’ve seen the truth from Scripture, the question returns to you:

Who is Jesus to you?

He is the Christ the Savior of the world. If you know Him this way, and receive Him personally, He will redeem your life and give you eternal hope.

No matter how many titles or descriptions people may give Him, the most powerful, heaven-backed confession is:

JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD.

And if you accept Him as such, Satan will hit a rock you will be firmly established, and your ticket to eternal life will be in your hands.


In conclusion

Do not struggle trying to define Jesus based on worldly opinions. Let the Word of God reveal Him to you.

Believe in Him, surrender to Him, and you will live not just for this life, but for eternity.

Be blessed.

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BLESSED ARE THE DEAD WHO DIE IN THE LORD

Revelation 14:13 (ESV):
“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!'”

The Bible doesn’t simply say, “Blessed are the dead.” It specifies: “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.”
This distinction is crucial. Not every death is a blessing. To die in the Lord means to die in a living relationship with Jesus Christ—having received His salvation, being found in His grace, and remaining faithful to Him until the end.

To die outside of Christ is to face the opposite reality. The blessing turns into a curse, the rest becomes torment, and the hope of eternal life becomes the fear of eternal judgment. As Jesus said in

John 5:29:
“…those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned.”

This passage in Revelation reminds us that there is something beyond death—something more than a peaceful sleep. It is judgment and eternal destiny.
For the believer, death is not the end—it is the beginning of eternal rest in the presence of God. That’s why the Spirit declares them blessed.
If death were the final stop, Scripture would have said, “Blessed are the living,” not “Blessed are the dead.”

So let me ask you plainly:
Is your life in order before God?
Are you certain that, should you die today, you would be counted among the blessed—those who die in the Lord?

How do we prepare for that moment? Through our faith in Christ, which is expressed through a life of righteousness and obedience.
Because, as Revelation 14:13 clearly says: “…their deeds follow them.”

Houses, cars, and wealth will all be left behind when we die.
But your actions—your obedience, your love, your faithfulness, your witness—they follow you.
They don’t save you (only Christ does), but they testify to the genuineness of your faith.


as James 2:17 reminds us:

“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

This is not something to take lightly.
There will be no second chance after death.

Hebrews 9:27 (ESV):
“And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,”

Now is the time to repent. Now is the time to surrender your life fully to Jesus. He is our only refuge and our eternal hope.

Acts 4:12:
“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Maranatha – The Lord is coming!


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