At some point, many of us ask:What exactly is religion? What qualifies as true religion? And what does true faith look like in God’s eyes?
Religion, at its core, is a set of beliefs and practices that stem from a person’s faith in something greater—usually a deity or a spiritual force. These beliefs often lead to certain moral codes, rituals, and ways of life.
Whenever someone acknowledges the existence of a divine or spiritual power—whether it’s God, spirits, or even false gods—that belief gives rise to a structure of worship and devotion. That structure is what we call religion.
You can observe this in various faiths around the world. For example, Buddhists follow specific routines such as meditation, wearing symbolic clothing, or practicing self-denial. These actions are not random—they are religious responses to what they believe about ultimate reality.
Even in Christianity, religious practices exist. A believer in Jesus Christ often develops habits like daily prayer, fasting, attending church services, tithing, and serving others. While these don’t save us, they are expressions of a life transformed by faith.
But the Bible makes a clear distinction between empty religion and true religion.
James 1:26–27 (NIV):“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
True religion, according to Scripture, is not just about rituals—it’s about compassion, holiness, and living out the heart of God.
This is where Christianity fundamentally differs from many other religions. In some belief systems, practicing the religion faithfully is enough for salvation. But in Christianity, salvation is not earned through religious acts.
Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV):“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
No matter how often you fast, pray, or attend church—if you have not placed your trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, those acts are spiritually empty.
Jesus made this clear in speaking to the religious leaders of His day, who were outwardly devout but inwardly far from God:
Matthew 23:27 (NIV):“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”
True Christian life involves more than external religion—it requires the presence of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in every true believer.
Romans 8:9 (NIV):“…And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”
The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, empowers, and transforms the believer from within. Without Him, religious activity becomes lifeless and legalistic.
Now that we’ve distinguished religion from salvation, let’s define true faith.
True faith is the personal, confident trust in Jesus Christ—the Son of God—as the only Savior who died for our sins and rose again.
John 14:6 (NIV):“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Faith in Jesus isn’t just mental agreement—it’s a surrender of the heart and life. It’s trusting Him alone for the forgiveness of sins, not our own righteousness.
Romans 10:9–10 (NIV):“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
Any faith that denies the divinity of Christ, His sacrificial death, or His resurrection is not true biblical faith—it leads people away from salvation.
You can be religious and still spiritually lost. You might fast, give to charity, and attend every service—but without a relationship with Jesus, it’s all in vain.
Matthew 7:22–23 (NIV):“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
That said, when religion is grounded in true faith, it becomes valuable. It helps build discipline, encourages spiritual growth, and supports a godly life—just like how a good school supports a student’s learning.
But just like a student still needs to study and do their part, a religious environment doesn’t automatically mean someone has true faith. It must be personal and authentic.
If you’ve been trusting in religion alone, now is the time to place your full faith in Jesus Christ. The door of grace is still open—but not forever.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV):“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
Turn to Him today. Repent of your sins, believe in the gospel, and receive new life. He promises to forgive and restore anyone who comes to Him.
1 John 1:9 (NIV):“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Conclusion
Religion can guide, but only faith in Jesus Christ saves. Don’t boast in religion—boast in the cross of Christ. That is where true hope and eternal life are found.
Galatians 6:14 (NIV):“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
May the Lord bless you richly and lead you into the fullness of His truth.
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He doesn’t hide our needs or ignore our pain—He carries them to the Father and intercedes on our behalf. The Bible reminds us that:
“Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.” — Hebrews 7:25
When we pray in His name, our prayers are heard—not because of our goodness, but because of His righteousness and deep love for us. Unfortunately, we often suffer needlessly because we fail to bring our burdens to God. We may say we prayed, but in reality, we often try to solve things ourselves or pray without true faith.
“You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives…” — James 4:2b–3a
Are you facing hardship, emotional pain, or confusion? Are doubts overwhelming you? Don’t lose hope or give up. Jesus hears every sincere prayer. The Bible encourages us:
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
There is no one more compassionate than Jesus. He understands your weakness because He experienced human suffering Himself.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin.” — Hebrews 4:15
So we are invited to come to Him boldly:
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” — Hebrews 4:16
Maybe you’ve reached the end of your strength. You’ve tried everything but still feel like giving up. Perhaps people have rejected or mocked you—especially those who chase after the world. But Jesus will never reject you. He invites the weary and burdened to come to Him:
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
Even when people disappoint us or abandon us, Jesus remains faithful. He promises:
“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” — Hebrews 13:5b
Joseph Scriven, born in 1819 in Ireland, came from a wealthy background. After graduating from Trinity College Dublin, he faced a tragic loss: his fiancée drowned the night before their wedding in 1843. This heartbreak led him to leave Ireland and move to Canada in 1845.
In 1855, while living in Ontario, he learned that his mother in Ireland had fallen gravely ill. To comfort her, he wrote a touching poem titled “Pray Without Ceasing.” That poem, written from a heart of love, was later set to music by Charles Crozat Converse and became the well-known hymn: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”
Scriven never intended his poem to become famous—it was simply a letter to his ailing mother. Yet God used it to touch millions of hearts across generations and nations.
From this story, we see a powerful truth: God can use our simple, humble acts of love to impact the world.
Jesus taught this very principle:
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.” — Matthew 25:40
When we help one hurting soul—whether through a prayer, a visit, a letter, or a song—God can multiply its impact beyond our imagination. The Bible reminds us:
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin…” — Zechariah 4:10a
So don’t underestimate the small good things you do in faith. In God’s hands, they become eternal seeds of blessing.
Whatever you’re going through today, remember this:
Let this timeless hymn remind you that Jesus is not only the Savior of your soul, but the closest Friend your heart can ever know.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13
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Question:
In Genesis 29:16–18, we read:
“Laban had two daughters; the older was Leah, and the younger was Rachel. Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel was beautiful in form and appearance. Jacob loved Rachel and agreed to work seven years to marry her.”
When the Bible says Leah’s eyes were “weak,” what does that mean? Was it poor eyesight or something else?
Answer: The exact meaning of “weak eyes” (Hebrew: ‘arek – often understood as “tender” or “soft” eyes) is not clearly defined in Scripture. It could refer to physical weakness such as poor vision or perhaps a lack of brightness or attractiveness in her eyes. Some scholars suggest it might mean she had less striking or less lively eyes compared to Rachel, who was noted for her beauty (Genesis 29:17).
However, the key theological point is that God’s favor and purpose are not based on outward appearance. Though Jacob loved Rachel more because of her beauty, God chose to bless Leah with many children (Genesis 29:31-35). Nearly half of the twelve tribes of Israel descended from Leah, including the tribe of Judah, through whom the Messiah, Jesus Christ, came (Genesis 49:10; Matthew 1:2-3). This shows God works beyond human preferences and values the heart and faithfulness over external qualities.
This truth aligns with what the prophet Samuel told King Saul when God was choosing a king:
“Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
Additionally, the story of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:9-10) illustrates that even if someone starts life with disadvantages or a name meaning “sorrow,” God can elevate and bless them when they seek Him sincerely. Jabez prayed for God’s blessing and protection, and God granted his requests, showing that limitations or weaknesses don’t limit God’s power in our lives.
So, if you feel overlooked or rejected by others, remember God’s perspective is different. What matters is your heart, faith, and obedience.
Be encouraged by God’s Word!
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:3)
God bless you.
As believers, one of our greatest responsibilities is to live a life that reflects Christ — not only in church, but in every area of life, including how we spend our free time. Entertainment, such as movies, is part of our modern world, but many Christians wonder: Is it a sin to watch movies?
The Bible doesn’t specifically mention “movies,” but it gives us clear principles to guide our decisions.
Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
This verse tells us that our entire lifestyle — including entertainment — should be aligned with Christ. Watching a movie isn’t neutral; it should be done in a way that honors Jesus.
Titus 2:11–12 “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
Salvation doesn’t only deliver us from sin — it trains us to renounce worldly passions and to live with self-control. In other words, grace doesn’t make us careless; it makes us spiritually alert.
1 Corinthians 10:23 “‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but not everything is constructive.”
Just because something is allowed doesn’t mean it is helpful. Freedom in Christ is not permission to consume anything without discernment. We must evaluate what we watch:
Philippians 4:8 “Whatever things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report… meditate on these things.”
Our mental focus shapes our spiritual health (Proverbs 4:23). What you watch feeds your heart.
Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Most entertainment in today’s world pushes values that oppose God’s Word — selfishness, sexual immorality, violence, greed, pride. Constant exposure leads to conformity, even if subtly.
God calls us to be renewed in our thinking — to be different, holy, and alert.
No, not all movies are sinful. But not all movies are helpful either. The key is discernment guided by the Holy Spirit and the Word.
1 Corinthians 6:12 “I have the right to do anything—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
Do Everything in the Name of Jesus
Watching movies is not inherently sinful. But every choice must come under the Lordship of Christ. Before you watch anything, ask: “Can I do this in Jesus’ name? Will this help or hurt my walk with Him?”
If yes — go ahead, with gratitude and balance. If no — walk away. It’s not worth your soul.
Ephesians 5:15–16 “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
May the Lord give you wisdom, conviction, and joy in your walk with Him. God bless you.
This is one of those questions that comes up when someone’s lost a pet they really loved. And honestly, it’s a fair question—our pets are family. They’re not just animals; they’re companions, comforters, and little sparks of joy in our daily lives.
So, what does the Bible actually say about this?
Back in Genesis 1:25, it says:
“God made the wild animals… and God saw that it was good.”
That one line tells us a lot. Animals are part of God’s creation, and not just as an afterthought. They’re included in what He called “good.” That means they matter.
There’s a beautiful image in Isaiah 11:6-9 of what the world will look like when God sets everything right. It talks about wolves living peacefully with lambs, and leopards lying down with goats. It’s a picture of harmony—and animals are right there in it.
That doesn’t necessarily mean our specific pets will be there, but it does show that animals are part of God’s vision for the future.
This is where things get a little less clear. Ecclesiastes 3:21 says:
“Who knows whether the spirit of man goes upward and the spirit of the beast goes down into the earth?”
Some people read this and think animals don’t have eternal souls like we do. Others think the verse is more about mystery—that we just don’t know for sure what happens to animals after they die. And that’s okay. There are some things God hasn’t laid out in black and white.
Truthfully, the Bible doesn’t give us a direct yes or no. But what it does show us is a God who is deeply loving, full of compassion, and who created animals for a reason. He knows how much they mean to us, and He’s not indifferent to that.
So even if we don’t have all the answers, there’s nothing wrong with holding on to hope. If our pets brought us joy, comfort, and love here, it’s not hard to imagine a God who might include them in the life to come.
In the end, we trust in a God who sees the whole picture and cares deeply about the things we love. That includes our pets.
Main Question:
In John 11:25–26, Jesus says:
“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. Do you believe this?” — John 11:25–26
What exactly does Jesus mean, especially in the phrase “shall never die”?
Jesus was not just offering hope for life after death—He was revealing a profound spiritual reality about what it means to truly believe in Him. To understand His words, we need to explore both the nature of eternal life and the depth of faith.
Jesus introduces Himself as the Resurrection and the Life, not just someone who brings life, but Life itself (cf. John 1:4, John 14:6). He is the Tree of Life that was originally seen in Eden (Genesis 2:9; Revelation 2:7), whose fruit gives eternal life to those who partake in Him:
“The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” — John 6:63
In this context, death and life are not just physical realities but spiritual states. Where Jesus—who is life—is present, death has no power.
When Jesus spoke these words, He addressed two groups of believers, each at a different stage of faith:
“He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” — John 11:25
This refers to believers who die physically, but because of their faith, continue living spiritually in God’s presence. Their souls enter Paradise and wait for the final resurrection (Luke 23:43; Philippians 1:23).
Their faith was genuine, but they did not reach the full maturity of faith described in Ephesians:
“…till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:13
Many believers today fall into this group—they love and follow Jesus, but their spiritual growth is limited. They die physically, yet they live spiritually.
“And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” — John 11:26
Here Jesus refers to a group of believers who, through deep faith, maturity, and spiritual obedience, will overcome even physical death. Their lives become so united with Christ that death has no claim over them.
This is not just a promise of spiritual life after death—but a potential escape from physical death, as seen in Scripture with:
“Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.” — John 8:51
When Jesus said this, the Jews were confused. They asked:
“Now we know that You have a demon! Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and You say, ‘If anyone keeps My word he shall never taste death.’” — John 8:52
They misunderstood Jesus, thinking only of physical death. But Jesus was talking about the second death—eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:6, 14). True believers, those who keep His Word, pass from death into life:
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.” — John 5:24
Yes—this is possible. In Matthew 16:28, Jesus told His disciples:
“Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” — Matthew 16:28
This shows that God always has a remnant of believers who walk in such closeness with Him that He preserves them from death.
The rapture of the Church will be the ultimate fulfillment of this promise. The believers who are alive and fully prepared when Christ returns will be taken up without seeing death (1 Corinthians 15:51–52).
However, not all believers will experience this. Many still live in fear, doubt, or compromise. That’s why Jesus asked:
“…when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” — Luke 18:8
He’s not looking for weak or lukewarm faith. He’s returning for a Church that is mature, victorious, and fully aligned with Him (Ephesians 5:27).
We often think we are waiting for Jesus, but He is actually waiting for us to grow up in faith so that He can come:
“…that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.” — Ephesians 5:27
Yes, Jesus meant what He said in John 11:26. Those who believe in Him and live by His Word in the fullness of faith will never die—not just spiritually, but possibly even physically. Like Enoch and Elijah, and like the Church that will be raptured, it is possible to overcome death through mature faith in Christ.
This teaching challenges us to:
Because only a Church that is ready will be taken.
“Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power…” — Revelation 20:6
May God help you grow in faith and be found ready when Jesus returns.
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In these last and dangerous days, it’s vital that you examine your spiritual life honestly. If you are still living outside the salvation of Christ, now is the time to reflect. And if you are still holding onto religious traditions or denominational customs without a true relationship with Jesus, you need to pause and think again.
One of the most important prophetic signs the Bible gives concerning the last days is the increase of knowledge. This is found in the book of Daniel:
“But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” — Daniel 12:4
This prophecy has two layers:
We cannot ignore this explosion of knowledge in both natural and spiritual realms—it is one of the clearest signs that we are in the “time of the end.”
The Bible encourages us to observe nature to understand divine truths. Paul writes:
“Does not even nature itself teach you…?” — 1 Corinthians 11:14
Jesus Himself constantly used natural illustrations to teach spiritual lessons. In Luke 12:54–56, He rebuked the people for being able to interpret the weather, but not the spiritual season:
“Whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is. And when you see the south wind blow, you say, ‘There will be hot weather’; and there is. Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?” — Luke 12:54–56
Jesus was pointing out the tragedy of spiritual blindness—even when all the signs are clear.
Think about the world today. We live in a time when job offers can appear online requiring candidates to report within hours. Imagine an ad calling for interviews in Dar es Salaam within 5–7 hours, yet you’re in Kigoma, Bukoba, or even South Africa. What means of transport would get you there on time? Definitely not walking, cycling, or even driving. You’d need a plane—something fast.
This is a clear image of how the rapture will happen.
The Bible teaches that Jesus will return suddenly, and only those who are ready will be taken up to meet Him:
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17
Just before this event, there will be a final spiritual awakening. God’s faithful servants will proclaim powerful messages that will stir the hearts of those who are sensitive to the Spirit. The Bible refers to this as the “voice of the archangel” (see Revelation 10:3).
But this will be a short, urgent period—a last chance to prepare.
Jesus explained this final moment through the Parable of the Ten Virgins:
“But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.” — Matthew 25:5–10
The five wise virgins had extra oil—symbolizing spiritual preparation and the presence of the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:13–14). The foolish ones were unprepared. When they finally tried to catch up, the door was already shut.
In the same way, during the final call before Jesus comes, many will realize what’s happening. But not all will be prepared. Some will already be operating with spiritual “aeroplanes”—a life led by the Spirit, filled with God’s Word and power. Others will still be walking, spiritually sluggish and delayed by traditions or distractions.
When the time of rapture comes, there will be no second chance. The door will be shut. That’s when there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth—as Jesus warned (Matthew 13:42, 25:30). People will regret their delay. “Why isn’t that sister here? I used to go to church with her!” But it will be too late.
Salvation is not something you guess your way into. It requires intentional pursuit. The Holy Spirit is not optional—He is the seal of God (Ephesians 4:30), and the One who prepares us for Christ’s return.
Yet many say, “My denomination is enough.” When taught about the Kingdom of God, they respond, “We live on earth, not in heaven.” When warned to prepare, they ask, “Where are the signs of the end?” But Scripture warns:
“For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:3
If today this gospel is being preached across the world and you’re still lukewarm, then you’re in danger of being left behind—and facing the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21). But there’s hope.
Repent today. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. Be like the wise virgins—having extra oil, spiritual knowledge, and readiness.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” — Matthew 25:13
Be spiritually alert. Seek God wholeheartedly. Prepare to meet the Lord in the clouds.
Be blessed. Come, Lord Jesus!
Grace and peace to you, beloved of God.
Let’s take time to reflect deeply on what the Bible teaches about the vital role of the Holy Spirit in helping us bear lasting spiritual fruit.
Jesus Himself said in John 15:16
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.”
This verse shows that bearing fruit is not optional for believers—it’s part of our divine calling. God saved us and appointed us to be fruitful, both in our inner character and in our outward ministry.
In the New Testament, “fruit” represents two major areas:
These are inner qualities produced by the Holy Spirit as we are sanctified and transformed into Christ’s image.
Galatians 5:22–23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”
This kind of fruit reflects God’s nature and is a mark of true spiritual maturity (cf. Matthew 7:16-20). We cannot produce this fruit by human effort—it only grows in us as we surrender to the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives.
This is the outward result of our service in God’s Kingdom—bringing others to faith in Christ.
Philippians 1:21–22
“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor…”
This “fruit of labor” refers to people being saved and discipled through our ministry (cf. Romans 1:13). Just as an apple tree is expected to bear apples, Christians are expected to multiply spiritual life in others.
We cannot walk in holiness without the Holy Spirit because He is the one who sanctifies us (cf. Romans 8:13–14). His very name—“Holy” Spirit—points to His role in setting us apart from sin and empowering us to live in obedience.
Likewise, we cannot lead others to Christ by our own strength or persuasive words. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts hearts and draws people to Jesus.
1 Corinthians 2:4–5
“And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.”
Jesus also said in John 6:44
“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…” And we know from John 16:8 that it is the Holy Spirit who convicts the world of sin and righteousness.
Jesus said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Soul-winning is compared to fishing. To catch fish successfully, a fisherman must meet certain conditions. These can also teach us important spiritual lessons:
No fisherman can catch fish while standing outside the boat. Spiritually, Christ is our boat—our place of safety and authority. To draw people to Christ, we ourselves must be in Christ—not merely religious or moral, but born again and abiding in Him.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
You can’t invite others into a life you haven’t experienced yourself.
If a fisherman falls into the sea, he must know how to swim. Likewise, we must be spiritually mature enough to resist the world’s temptations. If we’re still tied to sinful habits, we’re in danger of being pulled back into the world while trying to reach others.
2 Peter 2:20–21gives a sober warning:
“…the latter end is worse for them than the beginning… it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness…”
We must overcome the world through Christ before we try to save others from it.
Fishermen use nets and hooks to catch fish. Spiritually, these represent the Word of God and the power of the Gospel.
Romans 10:17
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
If we don’t know the Scriptures well, we’ll have nothing solid to offer those we’re trying to reach. Every believer must be equipped with sound doctrine and a living testimony.
Fish are often caught at night. In the same way, the world today is in deep moral and spiritual darkness. That is where the Gospel is most urgently needed.
Jesus said in Luke 5:31
“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.”
We cannot limit our preaching to the church walls—we must go out to the “dark places” of the world where the lost are. Jesus did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.
Finally, the most essential tool in fishing at night is a lamp—to draw the fish. In the same way, we need the presence and anointing of the Holy Spirit, who gives light in the darkness.
Matthew 25:1–13 tells the parable of the ten virgins—only those who had oil (the Holy Spirit) in their lamps were ready when the bridegroom came.
Philippians 2:15 says:
“…you shine as lights in the world.”
No matter how skilled or gifted you are, if you lack the Holy Spirit, your ministry will have no lasting impact. We need the Spirit’s power to draw people to Christ through the light of our lives and our message.
To bear fruit that pleases God and lasts into eternity, we must:
We cannot bear fruit or lead others to salvation without the Spirit’s help. So let us seek Him with all our hearts.
Let the words of Zechariah 4:6 guide you:
“Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts.
God bless you as you pursue a Spirit-filled life and bring others into His Kingdom. Preach the Gospel boldly, and let your life shine brightly in this dark world.
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! I invite you to meditate on Scripture with me. But before we go further, I ask you to reflect on this short mystery for a moment. Whether or not you find the answer, continue reading, as I will provide the explanation later.
The mystery is this:
“David shaves hundreds of times a week, yet his beard still grows thick. Can you explain why?”
Reflect on this, and I will give you the answer later.
The purpose of presenting it this way is to highlight that the Bible is a book full of mysteries. Sometimes, the answers seem simple—but only when we allow the One who authored it, God Himself, to reveal them to us. When we fail to find the correct answer, we often refuse to admit our lack of understanding. This can lead us to misunderstand Scripture or create interpretations that are inaccurate, merely to appear knowledgeable.
Everyone knows the Bible is full of mysteries. Among these is the divine nature of God. For example, Scripture declares God is ONE, yet we see that Jesus is God, and the Holy Spirit is God—how can this be if God is one?
When we cannot answer questions like this, we often simplify the answer: God is one, yet divided into three independent persons. But these simplified answers raise more questions, even for those outside Christianity. This is because we avoid the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who teaches us how Christ is God and how the Holy Spirit is God—the same God, not a separate being.
A Biblical Example of RevelationAnother source of confusion is Matthew 16:13–19:
13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”17 Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.”18 “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”19 “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Many, especially in the Catholic Church, interpret “this rock” as Peter himself, suggesting that the Church is built on Peter and he was the first Pope. However, the reality is that Jesus was speaking about the revelation given to Peter—that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God—not Peter himself. That revelation is the foundation on which the Church is built.
Peter was not a Pope. He married (Popes do not marry), never worshiped idols, nor prayed to Mary. Yet Popes often do these things. Peter even denied Christ, but the Church can never deny Christ. The gospel to the Gentiles was brought more through Paul than Peter. If the Church were built on human leadership, Paul might be the rightful “builder,” not Peter. Thus, we need the Holy Spirit’s guidance to correctly understand Scripture.
1 Corinthians 2:10–11:“But God has revealed them to us by His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”
Without the Spirit’s revelation of Jesus in our lives, we cannot stand against Satan. Seeing Christ merely as a provider of material blessings or problem-solver makes us spiritually poor, no matter our earthly wealth. True understanding comes from knowing Christ as our Savior who redeems, sanctifies, and grants eternal life.
The Mystery of David’s BeardReturning to our earlier question: “David shaves hundreds of times a week, yet his beard still grows thick. Why?”
The answer: David is a barber! He shaves the heads of many people daily; it has nothing to do with his own beard. Did you think it was David’s beard being shaved hundreds of times? If so, that is incorrect. Similarly, much of the Bible contains such mysteries. What you read may seem self-explanatory, but the true interpretation often differs. Understanding Jesus Christ cannot rely solely on Scripture without the Holy Spirit, because Scripture alone can mislead if not Spirit-led.
2 Corinthians 3:6:“He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
May the Lord help us all to understand Him fully as He desires.
If you have not yet given your life to Christ, the door is open now—but it will not remain open forever. The final trumpet is near, and Christ will take His redeemed people by His blood. Are you sure you are among them? Are you ready to meet the Lord? The decision is yours.
Maranatha!
Shalom! May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be blessed. Welcome as we dive into Scripture. In Romans 7, the Bible identifies two forces at work in humans:
The Law of Sin and Death
The Law of the Spirit of Life
These are two major laws operating within mankind. Today, we will explore what these laws are and how they function. Please read carefully, as rushing through may prevent understanding.
What is a Law?A law is a system or order established either by a community or an authority that must be followed without exception. For example:
The sun rising in the east and setting in the west follows a fixed law; it cannot choose otherwise.
Rain falling from above obeys a law of nature; it cannot fall upwards.
Darkness receding before light is also a law; darkness cannot overpower light.
Similarly, the Scriptures describe two “laws” operating in humans.
1) The Law of Sin and DeathThis is the first law that functions within a person. Its name explains its nature: it compels humans to sin, even against their will. Just as the sun obeys its natural law, this law operates automatically within the human body.
Origin: This law came into being after the Fall in Eden. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit, this law entered humanity and passed on to their children. It compels humans to sin, regardless of desire or knowledge.
Even newborns, who have not learned good from evil, display sinful behaviors: anger, selfishness, cruelty, or even lustful tendencies as they grow. These actions are not from choice—they are driven by the inherent law of sin and death.
The Apostle Paul explains this struggle in Romans 7:20–24:
“Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law at war with the law of my mind, making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?”
This law enslaves humans until they are born again and receive the second law—the Law of the Spirit.
Key points:
No human can overcome sin by their own strength.
This law produces both physical and spiritual death. As Romans 6:23 says
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Ezekiel 18:4 reminds us:
“The soul who sins shall die.”
People trapped in repeated sinful behaviors—lust, immorality, malice, anger—are under this law. They are slaves of sin, and its wages are death and eternal judgment.
2) The Law of the Spirit of LifeThis second law was introduced by God Himself, as He saw that no human could overcome sin through their own efforts. Through the Holy Spirit, God implemented a new law, fulfilled in Christ’s death on the cross, providing us the gift of the Spirit.
Function:
Enables believers to obey God’s commandments naturally.
Instills love for righteousness and hatred for sin, even without external compulsion.
Contrast with the Law of Sin: while the Law of Sin causes one to love evil and resist good, the Law of the Spirit fosters holiness and reverence for God internally.
Examples include:
A girl naturally choosing modesty in clothing without being taught.
A believer developing a love for purity, holiness, and obedience.
Living according to the Spirit is not about visions, speaking in tongues, or prophecy alone—it is about walking in the Spirit.
Ephesians 5:16–18:
“Walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.”
Important Note: Receiving the Law of the Spirit does not remove the Law of Sin; it covers and restrains it. If a believer grieves or quenches the Spirit, they may fall back under the power of sin. Hence, it is crucial to hold fast to what God has given.
How to Receive the Law of the Spirit of LifeFaith in Jesus Christ – Believe that His death and resurrection have freed you.
True Repentance – Turn from sin with a sincere heart.
Baptism – Acknowledging Christ through water baptism.
Receiving the Holy Spirit – The Spirit empowers you to live according to God’s law.
After receiving the Spirit:
Sin loses its grip over you.
You no longer need others to continually remind you of moral commandments; your heart desires holiness.
Jeremiah 31:31–34 prophesies this New Covenant:
“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah.I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the LORD,’ for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the LORD.For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.”
ConclusionThe Law of Sin and Death enslaves humans and leads to physical and spiritual death. The Law of the Spirit of Life, given through Christ and the Holy Spirit, empowers believers to obey God’s commandments naturally, love righteousness, and overcome sin. Living by the Spirit fulfills God’s law from the heart, not by force.