John 7:45-48 (NIV): “Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and the Pharisees, who asked them, ‘Why didn’t you bring him in?’‘No one ever spoke the way this man does,’ the guards replied.‘You mean he has deceived you also?’ the Pharisees retorted. ‘Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him?’”
Amen. Today, let’s ask ourselves: Why is Jesus Christ, the most famous person throughout all time and generations, considered the most significant figure in history? The reason is simple: He possessed something unique, something no one else in history has had. His influence transcends time, culture, and religion. To this day, the Bible is the most-read book in the world. Among the books of the Bible, the Gospels—especially those that speak about Jesus’ life and teachings—are read by millions across the globe. This is no accident—there is something profound and transformative in His words that have captured the hearts of people for centuries.
When the authorities sent officers to arrest Jesus, they expected to deal with a mere man—a possible revolutionary, a politician, or an activist. But when they encountered Him and heard His words, everything changed. Their assumptions were overturned, and their understanding was transformed. They found themselves confessing, “No one ever spoke the way this man does.” These words demonstrate that Jesus’ speech wasn’t ordinary. His words were full of grace, power, hope, and truth. They left a lasting impression. Even after 2,000 years, no one has spoken like Jesus.
Consider these life-changing words of Jesus:
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV): “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Here, Jesus calls those burdened by life’s struggles to find rest in Him. Theologically, this is a powerful invitation to salvation. The “yoke” represents submission to Jesus’ teachings and authority, but He promises that it will not be burdensome. The rest Jesus offers is not merely physical rest, but spiritual peace that transcends the trials of life. Jesus is offering a new way of living in relationship with God—a way marked by grace, love, and peace.
John 4:13-14 (NIV): “Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’”
In this conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus offers her living water, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Theologically, this highlights Jesus’ role as the giver of eternal life. Just as water is essential for physical survival, Jesus is essential for eternal life. The “living water” is a metaphor for spiritual renewal—a deep, unending satisfaction that only Christ can provide. He promises to quench the deepest thirst of our souls, and this offer extends to all who believe in Him.
John 11:25-26 (NIV): “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’”
In this passage, Jesus speaks to Martha before raising her brother Lazarus from the dead. Jesus’ identity as the Resurrection and the Life is a direct claim to His divinity and the promise of eternal life through faith in Him. Resurrection is not just a future event; it is found in Jesus Himself. He is the source of life, both physical and spiritual. By believing in Him, Christians are promised eternal life, transcending even death itself.
Jesus’ words are more than just teachings or philosophical musings; they are transformative. His promises are true, and they have been verified by the lives of countless believers throughout history. Jesus Christ was not a politician or revolutionary in the conventional sense. He didn’t promise what He couldn’t deliver. Instead, He spoke with authority and power—words that bring life, peace, and healing.
Today, Jesus still offers His rest to those who are weary. His living water continues to flow to those who thirst for truth and life. His promise of resurrection and eternal life is available to anyone who chooses to believe in Him.
Theologically, the process of repentance and faith is essential for salvation. Jesus invites us to repent of our sins and follow Him. Repentance means a genuine turning away from sin and a turning toward God. Jesus promises to forgive those who sincerely repent and place their trust in Him.
Acts 2:38 (NIV): “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
In this passage, Peter calls people to repent and be baptized in Jesus’ name as the sign of their faith and forgiveness. Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is an outward act of obedience that marks the beginning of a new life in Christ.
Acts 2:42 (NIV): “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
True believers are called to live in community with one another, growing together in faith and learning from God’s Word. Christian fellowship provides strength, encouragement, and the opportunity to serve one another.
When you choose to follow Christ, His words will begin to transform your life. You will experience the rest He promises, drink from the living water He offers, and have the hope of eternal life through His resurrection. Repenting of sin and placing your trust in Him brings forgiveness and a new start. His grace is sufficient for all who seek Him. Through the Holy Spirit, you will be empowered to live as a child of God, overcoming sin and living a life of purpose and peace.
The Lord is calling you today—don’t let the opportunity to respond to His invitation pass you by. Come to Him, and you will find true rest.
May the Lord bless you.
Print this post
! Today we thank the Lord for giving us another day to reflect on His Word. In this study, we will learn about the parents of two of Jesus’ apostles—James and John, the sons of Zebedee. We will also see how the role of parents can deeply shape the spiritual lives of their children.
Scripture teaches that when a parent raises a child in the fear of the Lord, God places a crown of grace upon that child’s head:
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.” (Proverbs 1:8–9)
Thus, the foundation laid by parents is not only for worldly success, but even more importantly, for eternal life in Christ.
Among the twelve apostles, only three—Peter, James, and John—were often invited into the Lord’s most intimate moments. For example, they alone witnessed the raising of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:37), the transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–2), and Jesus’ agony in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:37).
Out of these three, two were brothers—James and John. In fact, John was the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23), the one who leaned on His chest during the Last Supper. Why did Jesus show such closeness to these brothers? It was not because the others were less faithful. Rather, it points to a divine purpose in their calling and the spiritual environment shaped by their parents.
Jesus even gave James and John a special name—Boanerges, meaning “sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). This shows the zeal, boldness, and spiritual fervor that marked their lives—a trait that was encouraged by their upbringing.
When Jesus called James and John, they were working with their father Zebedee in the family fishing business:
“Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him.” (Matthew 4:21–22)
Notice that Zebedee did not resist. He allowed both of his sons to leave the family trade and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. This is remarkable. Many parents today would struggle to let go of even one child to serve the Lord, yet Zebedee released both.
This shows us the faith of a father who valued eternal purpose above earthly business. Though it meant more labor for him and reliance on hired men, he gladly let his sons go, trusting God’s plan for their lives.
The mother of James and John, traditionally identified as Salome, also played a significant role. Matthew records:
“Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of Him. ‘What is it you want?’ He asked. She said, ‘Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.’” (Matthew 20:20–21)
Though her request showed limited understanding of God’s kingdom, it reveals her heart for her sons’ eternal destiny. She did not only want them to follow Jesus on earth but also to share in His glory in heaven.
Jesus corrected her perspective, reminding them that discipleship requires suffering:
“You don’t know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” (Matthew 20:22)
And indeed, both James and John would share in Christ’s sufferings—James as the first apostle to be martyred (Acts 12:2), and John through persecution and exile on Patmos (Revelation 1:9).
The example of Zebedee and Salome shows us how much parents can influence the spiritual destiny of their children. Unlike other apostles’ parents, who are never mentioned, the parents of James and John stood side by side with their children’s calling.
Their support opened the way for James and John to become part of Jesus’ inner circle, experiencing revelations that others did not.
As Christian parents (or future parents), we are called to do the same. Supporting our children in the ways of the Lord is one of the greatest investments we can make:
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)
Practical applications:
You never know if the child you are nurturing might be a future Samuel, James, or John whom God will use mightily for His kingdom.
The story of James and John’s parents teaches us that spiritual legacy often begins at home. Their father’s willingness to release them and their mother’s desire for their eternal glory show a partnership with God’s calling that bore great fruit.
May the Lord help us as parents, guardians, and mentors to raise our children not only for earthly success but for eternal life in Christ
WhatsApp
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Before diving into the meaning of such dreams, it’s important to understand that there is a lot of misinformation and false teaching about dreams in the world today. Many people, even believers, have been led astray by trying to find spiritual meaning in every dream without consulting the Word of God. The Bible remains our ultimate authority, and any dream or experience must align with Scripture (Isaiah 8:20).
When it comes to dreams, they generally fall into three categories:
God can speak through dreams, often to reveal something important, give direction, or offer a warning. These dreams are usually clear, meaningful, and lead us to righteousness or repentance. They are consistent with God’s nature and His Word.
Example: Pilate’s Wife
“While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, ‘Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.’”Matthew 27:19 (NKJV)
This shows that God can warn even unbelievers through dreams when His divine purpose is involved. However, such dreams are rare and usually leave a deep impression.
Satan also uses dreams to instill fear, guilt, confusion, or temptation. These dreams often involve sinful behavior (like sexual immorality), occult practices, or disturbing imagery. They can be frightening or alluring, but they aim to distract, deceive, or spiritually harm the dreamer.
Paul reminds us that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), and Jesus called him a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). Dreams that promote sin or lead us away from God’s truth must be rebuked and rejected.
If you frequently have such dreams, it may be a call to examine your spiritual life, resist the devil through prayer and repentance (James 4:7), and submit your mind to the Word of God (Romans 12:2).
Most dreams fall under this category. These are not spiritual in nature. They are simply the result of your brain processing recent experiences, emotions, or thoughts during sleep.
Ecclesiastes 5:3 (NKJV):
“For a dream comes through much activity, and a fool’s voice is known by his many words.”
In other words, if you’ve been busy, stressed, or focused on something throughout the day, your mind may replay those experiences as dreams at night.
Examples:
If you were hungry before bed, you might dream of eating.
If you were watching football, you might dream of scoring goals.
If you attended a funeral, you may dream of death or mourning.
These dreams have no spiritual meaning and do not require interpretation or concern. Trying to find a message in them can lead to confusion or unnecessary fear.
Dreaming about eating food like meat, rice, fruits, or snacks usually falls under the third category. This is especially common if you go to bed hungry or have been thinking about food.
Isaiah 29:8 (NKJV):
“It shall even be as when a hungry man dreams, and look he eats; but he awakes, and his soul is still empty; or as when a thirsty man dreams, and look—he drinks; but he awakes, and indeed he is faint, and his soul still craves…”
This clearly shows that such dreams can be a natural reflection of your physical condition rather than a spiritual message.
However, if the dream of eating involves strange or disturbing elements like eating with unknown people in a dark place, or being force-fed it may need prayer and spiritual discernment, as it could be from the enemy (1 John 4:1). In such cases, it’s wise to pray, fast, and seek God’s guidance.
Rather than focusing too much on dreams, we are called to focus on God’s Word. The Bible is the sure and trustworthy guide for our lives.
Jeremiah 23:28-29 (NKJV):
“The prophet who has a dream, let him tell a dream; and he who has My word, let him speak My word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat?” says the Lord.“Is not My word like a fire?” says the Lord, “And like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?”
God compares dreams to chaff and His Word to wheat meaning His Word is what truly nourishes and transforms.
If you haven’t yet given your life to Jesus Christ, know that the door of grace is still open. Repent and believe the Gospel. We are living in the final moments of the last days, and Christ could return at any time (Matthew 24:42-44). Don’t delay. Turn to Him today, and He will receive you with open arms (John 6:37).
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Answer:Eternal Security, also known as “Once saved, always saved,” is the belief that once a person is saved by faith in Jesus Christ, they can never lose their salvation, no matter what. It suggests that salvation is entirely God’s work, dependent on His grace, and not based on human actions. This belief holds that God will protect and keep the believer until the end of their life.
But is this idea supported by the Bible?
Yes, the Bible does confirm that once we are saved, we are promised eternal life with God. Scriptures like Ephesians 4:30, Romans 8:33-34, and Romans 8:38-39 tell us that once a person is saved, they are sealed by the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. However, this promise of eternal security depends on continuing to live in God’s grace. If a person chooses to turn away from God, they can lose their salvation.
A good way to understand this is through an example: imagine holding a child’s hand and assuring them they won’t fall as long as they stay close to you. If the child decides to walk away from you and falls, can you be blamed? Similarly, while God promises to keep us, we must choose to remain in His grace. If we walk away from Him, we risk losing that security.
Spiritual Battles and the Need to EndureSalvation is just the beginning of the Christian journey. Once we are saved, we enter into a spiritual battle. Satan will try to lead us away from our faith through trials, temptations, and struggles. If eternal security were guaranteed, there would be no need for Satan to fight against us. But because we have the free will to turn away, he works hard to make us fall.
The Apostle Paul, even though he was a servant of God and preached the gospel to many, feared that he could lose his salvation if he didn’t stay faithful:
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 – “I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
Paul understood that even he could fall away from the faith if he didn’t stay focused. He knew that salvation required constant effort and endurance.
The Danger of Complacency in FaithThere are many Christians today, including pastors and leaders, who think they are eternally secure, even though they continue to live in sin. They believe they are safe because they were once saved by grace, but they live without repentance, ignoring God’s commands.
Take Judas Iscariot as an example. Judas was chosen by Jesus and walked with Him for three and a half years. Yet, he betrayed Jesus and ended up in eternal destruction. If Judas, who was so close to Jesus, could fall away, then we must be careful not to think we are immune to falling away.
If you have been saved by grace but are now living in sin, making excuses for sinful behavior, the “eternal security” you once believed in is no longer certain. You cannot continue living in sin and expect God’s protection to remain.
The Call to Endure and Protect Your SalvationThe Bible calls us to diligently guard our salvation and stay faithful to God:
2 Peter 1:10 – “Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble.”
In conclusion, eternal security doesn’t mean that once you are saved, you can live carelessly and still remain safe. You must value your salvation, live in God’s grace, and stay faithful to His will. If you do not remain in His grace, your salvation could be at risk. Let us all strive to remain steadfast in our faith and trust in God’s guidance. The good way to put that sentense is “once saved forever saved, but also once saved forever following”
Be blessed.
The Pool of Siloam… Our Lord Jesus said:
“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me, and let him drink, whoever believes; and he shall receive the water of life freely” (John 7:37).
Shalom! Welcome as we explore the Word of God, which is the light to our path and a lamp guiding our steps (Psalm 119:105).
Healing at the Pool of Siloam John 9:6–7 records:
“When He had said these things, He spat on the ground, made clay with the saliva, and anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. Then He said to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam’ (which means Sent). So he went and washed, and came back seeing.”
Notice that Jesus could have healed the blind man instantly without instructing him to wash in the pool, yet He chose this method. The term “pool” here does not refer to a common drinking vessel or teacup—it refers to a specifically constructed reservoir or small pond, similar to a modern swimming pool, built for a special purpose.
Historically, in ancient Jerusalem, this pool was first constructed by King Hezekiah of Israel (2 Kings 20:20). Later, it was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, rebuilt under Nehemiah, and continued to exist during the time of Jesus, with subsequent repairs under Herod.
Spiritual Significance: Living Water In John 7:37–39, we read:
“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ Now this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Similarly, Jesus used the imagery of water at Jacob’s well to illustrate spiritual life: John 4:6–14 recounts Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman:
“Jesus, being weary from His journey, sat by the well… ‘Give Me a drink,’ He said. Jesus answered, ‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.’ … ‘Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.’”
The Holy Spirit: The True Living Water These “waters” symbolize the Holy Spirit, the Living Water that quenches all thirst: the thirst for sin, immorality, corruption, theft, and every form of impurity. This gift is freely available to all who come to Christ.
Revelation 21:6 declares:
“And He said to me, ‘It is done! I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give to him who thirsts of the fountain of the water of life freely.'”
Revelation 22:17 echoes:
“And the Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”
These living waters are freely offered today, yet many ignore them. One day, for those who reject them, it will be too late—like the rich man in Luke 16, who could not reach Lazarus’ water to cool his tongue in torment. Therefore, seek not temporary spiritual pools or blessings that fade; seek the Living Water itself.
May the Lord help us to drink abundantly from this water of life, so we may truly live! Let us thank our Lord Jesus Christ for bringing this gift freely to humanity.
Maranatha!
Mark 3:5 – “Looking around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, he said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. Then the Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.”
Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ forever. God’s Word is our spiritual nourishment, giving us eternal life. Therefore, taking time each day to meditate on it yields benefits not only for today but for eternity—even for trillions of years ahead.
Today, by God’s grace, we reflect briefly on the anger of Christ. When we read the passage above, we see a moment when the Lord went into the synagogue and encountered a man with a withered hand.
When Jesus intended to heal him, He noticed that the Pharisees and Herodians were watching closely, hoping to accuse Him if He healed on the Sabbath. Jesus’ response? He became deeply angry—not at the man, but at the hardness of their hearts. He looked around at them “with anger,” from those on His left to those on His right, from the front row to the back, intentionally revealing the depth of His righteous indignation.
Reflect: If you were among the Pharisees, how would you have responded to Christ’s anger? Often, it is easy to interpret anger as hatred. Yet, Scripture shows us that Christ’s anger is always coupled with compassion. Though His face expressed righteous anger, His heart was filled with sorrow for the hardness and sinfulness of their hearts. This is true divine anger: it is never hatred but a longing for repentance and restoration.
When God corrects you for your sins, do not think He hates you or is cruel. His apparent anger is motivated by love—He desires your repentance, not your destruction. As 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Similarly, when God warns against sexual immorality, greed, idolatry, or any sinful path that leads to eternal destruction, it is not because He wishes to punish unjustly. It is because He loves you and desires transformation. Sometimes He may remove things from your life or deny your requests to turn your heart back to Him.
Revelation 3:15-20 provides this principle clearly:
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. … Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
Notice verse 19: “Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline.” God’s discipline is always motivated by love, even when it appears stern. When Christ confronts sin in your life, it is not to punish but to protect, guide, and restore you.
Practical Steps for True Repentance:
Surrender fully to God: Acknowledge your sins and ask for forgiveness sincerely, committing to a new beginning.
Remove sinful habits: Destroy objects or practices that lead you into sin, such as immodest clothing, pornography, alcohol, or immoral relationships.
Pursue godly fellowship: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage spiritual growth.
Walk in consistent obedience: Faith without works is dead (James 2:17). True repentance is demonstrated by a transformed life.
When God sees sincere repentance and a transformed life, He strengthens you to overcome temptations that once seemed impossible. This results in profound spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ.
Baptism as Confirmation:After repentance, it is essential to follow through with water baptism as instructed in Scripture (John 3:23; Acts 2:38). Baptism signifies rebirth and public declaration of your commitment to Christ.
Mark 3:5 reminds us again:“Looking around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart.” This shows that God’s anger is purposeful: it is always directed at sin and hardness of heart, never at His beloved children who seek Him.
Blessings to you. Please share this message with others and join our channel on WhatsApp for more spiritual guidance.
There is a profound promise that God gives to those who decide to leave the world behind and follow Him at all costs. The promise is to “receive new strength time after time.” God fully understands that the journey of salvation is challenging, just like any other journey in life. There are mountains and valleys, times of rejection and scorn, moments when one feels misunderstood or unappreciated, experiences of isolation and offense, heartbreaks, loss, and tribulation. Anyone who has decided to follow Christ will inevitably encounter these challenges.
You might ask: How can true believers endure despite such hardships?
The answer lies in God’s sustaining power. While worldly challenges can easily discourage or overwhelm anyone, a Christian who has resolved to follow Jesus draws nearer to God precisely in these moments. This is because a divine strength is released in them “time after time.”
The Bible assures us:
Isaiah 40:28-31 (ESV)
“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Without this grace, no one could genuinely trust or rely on an unseen God throughout life. But because God grants His strength to those who wait on Him, believers continue to pursue Him with renewed zeal, experiencing their spiritual journey as though it has just begun.
This is the key difference between a believer and an unbeliever. An unbeliever may struggle with worldly challenges—stress at work, academic pressure, or personal struggles—but when they grow tired, they may give up, saying, “I’ll continue later.” Conversely, a believer who has taken up their cross and committed to following Christ experiences divine empowerment precisely at the point of exhaustion.
God opens ways where there seems to be none. Where others might predict failure, the believer continues to grow spiritually and love God more deeply because God ensures that strength is continuously released. As Scripture says, believers will “mount up with wings like eagles; run and not be weary; walk and not faint.”
Christianity is a journey of empowerment. If someone gives up in the middle of challenges, it often indicates they have not fully surrendered to Christ. True perseverance comes from God’s power, not human effort.
Practical Application for Believers:
You may ask yourself: Can I, as a Christian, overcome sin and worldly temptations?
Whether it’s sexual immorality, alcohol, smoking, inappropriate entertainment, or personal habits, human effort alone is insufficient. But when you truly commit your heart to follow Christ, saying, “Today I start anew with You, Lord,” God’s power enables you to overcome more easily than you imagine.
Even before you feel exhausted, God will be by your side, providing fresh strength daily. Over time, desires for sin diminish, replaced by God’s grace and peace. This is why perseverance in salvation is impossible without divine empowerment; no pastor, evangelist, or human teacher could sustain it alone.
Even in sickness or distress, God provides comfort and healing. You will witness His hand guiding you and find joy in obedience, saying, “Blessed is the Lord, for I chose to follow Him.”
For those who remain distant from God and claim that righteous living is impossible, Scripture warns:
John 8:24 (ESV)
“I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.”
Dying in sin has eternal consequences. Those who resist God’s call miss opportunities to experience His empowering strength, as described in Isaiah 40:29-31.
Next Steps After Repentance:
After genuine repentance:
Seek baptism in water, in the name of Jesus Christ (John 3:23; Acts 2:38), to complete your salvation.
Join a community of believers and commit to studying Scripture diligently and praying regularly.
Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your actions and decisions.
As you continue in faith, the desires for sin fade, and God’s strength enables you to live victoriously, “running without weariness” and “walking without fainting” (Isaiah 40:31).
Shalom.
Let us also be ready to receive the hard words of Christ. Not every word spoken by the Lord was easy to accept in the natural sense.
There were moments when Jesus spoke directly to His disciples:
Matthew 10:37-39 (ESV)
“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Imagine the scene: Christ had not yet been crucified, and no one could have anticipated that He would one day hang on a cross like a common criminal. Yet here, He is already speaking to His disciples about taking up the cross, as if they already understood what that meant—or perhaps they had already witnessed Him bearing His own cross spiritually.
In ordinary terms, this word is difficult to accept. It is like hearing a modern president say: “If you want to become my minister, you must carry a live bomb in your hand every day and be ready to detonate it at any time.” You would naturally think, “What is he saying?”
Similarly, Christ spoke of the cross, which was ultimately for the redemption of sinful humanity, yet His words were hard for people to hear.
Another challenging word He gave was:
John 6:53-56 (ESV)
“Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.’”
Think about it: if someone today told you to eat their flesh and drink their blood, you would likely consider them a madman. Yet Jesus used this imagery to describe the deep spiritual reality of abiding in Him—receiving His life and grace.
Words like these caused many of His disciples to turn away:
John 6:60-63 (ESV)
“Many of his disciples said, ‘This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?’ 61 But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, ‘Does this offend you? 62 What then if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.’”
Even today, Christ still calls people to follow Him without always giving immediate reasons for His commands. What is required is obedience and trust: if He tells you to leave something behind, even if you don’t fully understand, you obey. If He tells you to change certain practices, surrender possessions, or separate from relationships, do not overthink—it is a test of faith and discipleship.
The apostles exemplified this:
Acts 12: Following Christ When the apostles were called, they were simply told, “Follow me.” They left everything immediately and followed without a full explanation of where they were going. They endured hard words and challenging circumstances until the time came for them to understand fully. Some disciples could not accept these words and therefore did not reach Pentecost. But the eleven apostles (and Matthias, who replaced Judas) obeyed and became pillars of the Church.
The principle is clear: the words of Christ are spirit and life, even when they are difficult to understand now. Obedience and trust bring eventual revelation and blessing.
Consider Abraham, who was told to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. Hebrews 11:18-19 explains:
“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son, 19 of whom it was said, ‘Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.’ He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back.”
Though the act seemed extreme, Abraham’s faith aligned with God’s will, and in the end, it was a demonstration of God’s provision and power.
Application: Be willing to “lose yourself” today for Christ. Trust Him, obey Him, and follow His words—even when you don’t fully understand. In doing so, you participate in the spiritual life and power that Christ promises.
Blessings.
Shalom, and may the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be exalted. Today, let us reflect deeply on a spiritual truth often ignored or softened: God does not accept worship or offerings from those who deliberately live in sin. This is not a matter of human opinion, but a truth anchored in Scripture.
The holiness of God is central to biblical theology. God is absolutely pure, and sin cannot dwell in His presence.
Habakkuk 1:13 (NKJV): “You are of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on wickedness.”
This means anyone who approaches God while knowingly persisting in sin—without repentance—is offering worship that God rejects. This includes pastors, prophets, evangelists, or any believer.
Isaiah 59:1-2 (NKJV): “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear.”
God specifically forbids the use of money earned through sinful or immoral means—such as prostitution or corruption—as offerings in His house.
Deuteronomy 23:18 (NKJV): “You shall not bring the wages of a harlot or the price of a dog to the house of the Lord your God for any vowed offering, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God.”
This reflects God’s demand for both inner purity and purity in giving. Offering God money gained from sin mocks His holiness. Sadly, many churches today shy away from teaching this clearly, fearing financial or membership losses.
True biblical giving comes from a heart of worship, obedience, and gratitude. God doesn’t need our money; He wants our hearts.
Psalm 50:10-12 (NKJV): “For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the mountains, And the wild beasts of the field are Mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell you; For the world is Mine, and all its fullness.”
Offerings are meant to transform us into givers, reflecting the generous nature of God. But when we give without repentance, it becomes hypocrisy.
Participating in sacred ordinances such as the Lord’s Supper or baptism while unrepentant is spiritually dangerous.
1 Corinthians 11:27-30 (NKJV): “Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep.”
We see this danger in Judas Iscariot, who shared in the Last Supper while planning to betray Jesus. Satan entered him at that very moment (John 13:26–27). What should have brought life became a path to death.
Baptism is not a ritual or tradition—it is an outward sign of an inward transformation. If one is baptized without genuine repentance, the act is meaningless.
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.’”
Romans 6:4 (NKJV): “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
Without the intent to live a transformed life, baptism becomes an empty symbol—and worse, a misuse of a holy sacrament.
Seeking prophecy, prayer, or blessings while having no real intention of following God is spiritually hazardous.
Ezekiel 14:3-4 (NKJV): “Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts… Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by them?”
God sees our hearts. If we approach Him with hidden sin or an unrepentant attitude, He will respond with judgment rather than blessing.
If you’ve been giving offerings from sinful earnings or partaking in holy things while living in sin, perhaps out of ignorance, know this: God is merciful.
1 John 1:9 (NKJV): “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Here’s what you should do:
Once you’re made right with God, your offerings will be acceptable, your prayers will be heard, and your worship will be pleasing—because you are under the covering of Christ’s righteousness.
Do not bring the wages of sin into the house of God. Instead, bring a broken and contrite heart—the kind of offering God never rejects.
Psalm 51:17 (NKJV): “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart— These, O God, You will not despise.”
May God guide you into all truth, and may your worship be pure, your heart clean, and your life a testimony of grace.
The Bible records the death of only one apostle in detail: James, the brother of John.
In Acts 12:1-2, it says,
“About that time King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.”
James was beheaded, making him the first apostle to be martyred. However, for the other apostles, the Bible does not mention specifics about their deaths.
To learn about their deaths, people have had to rely on stories passed down by those close to the apostles or witnesses of their deaths. While we can’t be 100% certain about these accounts, many have been confirmed through consistent testimony from those who were there.
Matthew:
Matthew, the tax collector and author of the Gospel of Matthew, is said to have been severely wounded by a sword while preaching in Ethiopia, in northern Africa. He later died from the injuries sustained in this attack. Although the Bible does not explicitly state his death, historical records and early Christian writings suggest this fate.
John the Apostle:
John, the brother of James, is unique in that he is the only apostle believed to have died of natural causes, likely in his old age.
In Revelation 1:9, John writes,
“I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.”
After surviving being boiled in oil (miraculously unharmed), he was exiled to Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation. He was eventually released and returned to Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) to care for the early churches. John’s death in his later years represents a peaceful end for an apostle who lived through intense persecution.
Peter:
Peter was crucified in Rome, possibly around 64 A.D. In John 21:18-19, Jesus tells Peter about his future death:
“Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”
Jesus was predicting that Peter would die by crucifixion, and according to early church tradition, Peter requested to be crucified upside down, unworthy of dying in the same manner as Jesus. This illustrates his deep humility and devotion to his Lord.
Bartholomew (Nathanael):
Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, was a missionary in Asia. According to historical accounts, he was flayed alive—meaning his skin was torn off—before being martyred. This horrific death is a testament to the intense suffering many of the apostles endured in spreading the Gospel.
Andrew:
Andrew, the brother of Peter, was crucified in Greece on an X-shaped cross. According to early church tradition, before his death, Andrew reportedly said,
“I have long desired and expected this happy hour.”
(Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History, 3.1). This reflects his unwavering commitment to Christ, even in the face of excruciating pain. He continued to preach the Gospel while on the cross for two days before he died.
Thomas:
Thomas, often referred to as “Doubting Thomas” due to his initial disbelief in the resurrection of Christ (John 20:24-29), became a missionary to India. According to tradition, he was speared to death while preaching the Gospel, fulfilling the prophecy in
John 20:29, where Jesus says,
“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
This emphasizes Thomas’ eventual faithfulness in spreading the Gospel despite his early doubts.
Philip:
Philip was crucified in Asia Minor. Early Christian writers such as Eusebius record that he was imprisoned and later crucified for his commitment to preaching the Gospel. Philip’s martyrdom mirrors the suffering and perseverance described in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands his disciples to
“go and make disciples of all nations.”
Thaddeus/Jude:
Jude, the son of James, was also martyred, reportedly by crucifixion in Edessa around 72 A.D. He is often associated with the epistle that bears his name, in which he writes,
“But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love” (Jude 1:20).
Jude’s death, as a faithful servant of Christ, reflects his commitment to the very message he preached.
Simon the Zealot
Simon, who was part of the Zealots before following Christ, preached in Mauritania and later in Britain. Like many of the apostles, he too was crucified for his faith. His martyrdom fulfills the commission in Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commands the apostles to go and make disciples of all nations, despite the risks involved.
Matthias:
Matthias, the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:26), was stoned to death and then beheaded for his faith. This emphasizes the continuing mission of the apostles to spread the Gospel, even after Judas’ betrayal.
Judas Iscariot:
Judas, the apostle who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16), took his own life by hanging himself after he realized the gravity of his sin. His tragic end, as described in Matthew 27:5, serves as a warning about the consequences of forsaking Jesus for material gain.
Paul:
Paul, who was not one of the twelve apostles but is considered an apostle due to his profound missionary work (Romans 1:1), was martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero’s persecution of Christians. According to early Christian sources, Paul was beheaded, fulfilling the prophecy in
2 Timothy 4:6-8, where Paul writes:
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Other Apostles and Martyrs:
Other apostles, like Luke, were also martyred for their unwavering faith. Luke is traditionally believed to have been hung on an olive tree in Greece. The early church, as recorded in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, provides numerous accounts of other apostles being persecuted and killed for their faith in Christ.
What Can We Learn From This?
The Bible speaks of the “great cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12:1-2 which says:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
These witnesses, the apostles and martyrs, were willing to endure suffering and even death for their faith in Christ. They understood the eternal reward that awaited them, as described in
2Corinthians 4:17, where Paul writes,
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
We are called to learn from their example of unwavering faith. The question is: Will we, like them, value our salvation and persevere in our faith, no matter the cost?
If you’re still outside of Christ, remember that the door of grace won’t remain open forever. Repent today and turn to God. In
1 John 1:9 it says,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Take a moment, wherever you are, to confess your sins to God and ask for His forgiveness.
If you sincerely repent, God is there to listen, forgive, and cleanse you through the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). And from that moment, His peace will fill your heart.
Without delay, find a spiritual church, and be baptized by immersion in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, as stated inActs 2:38, where Peter says,
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
God will pour His Holy Spirit upon you to help you in your journey