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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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Where Do Blessings Come From?

The ultimate source of all blessings is God. He is the fountain of every good and perfect gift, as the apostle James affirms:

James 1:17 (ESV)

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

God, in His sovereignty, may bless an individual directly, or He may choose to bless someone through another person. Throughout Scripture, we see both of these patterns revealed.

1. God Blesses Directly

One of the clearest examples is Abraham. God personally spoke to him and entered into a covenant of blessing, not only for him but for generations after him:

Genesis 22:15–18 (NKJV)

Then the Angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time out of heaven,

and said: “By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son—

blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies.

In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.

This blessing was both personal and prophetic—it pointed forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, the promised “seed” through whom all nations would be blessed (see Galatians 3:16).

2. God Blesses Through People

God can also use human agents to pass on His blessings. One of the most powerful illustrations is the patriarch Jacob, who, near the end of his life, blessed each of his twelve sons. These blessings were not mere well-wishes; they were prophetic declarations with long-term spiritual and historical consequences:

 Genesis 49:28 (ESV)

All these are the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each with the blessing suitable to him.

Similarly, parental blessings carry weight in the spiritual realm. Proverbs highlights the importance of honoring one’s parents:

Proverbs 20:20 (ESV)

If one curses his father or his mother, his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.

 

Ephesians 6:2–3 (NKJV)

“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.

3. How to Position Yourself for God’s Blessing

To walk in God’s blessing, one must align their life with His will. Obedience to His Word is foundational. In the Old Testament, God set before Israel a clear choice between blessing and curse:

Deuteronomy 28:1–2 (ESV)

And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.

Faith in Jesus Christ is the ultimate way to enter into the blessing of God. The Bible says that in Christ, we are already blessed with every spiritual blessing:

 Ephesians 1:3 (ESV)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.

4. Blessing vs. Curse

It is important to recognize that the opposite of blessing is curse—and disobedience leads to it. When people reject God’s ways and harden their hearts, they remove themselves from His favor:

 Jeremiah 17:5 (ESV)

Thus says the Lord: ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord.

But the good news is that Christ became a curse for us, so that we might inherit God’s blessing:

 Galatians 3:13–14 (ESV)

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree’—so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.

Conclusion

All true blessings come from God, either directly or through others whom He uses as vessels of His grace. As believers, we must walk in obedience, faith, humility, and honor—toward God and toward others. This is how we position ourselves to receive and enjoy God’s rich and lasting blessings.

 Proverbs 10:22 (ESV)l

The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Where Is Heaven?

Answer:In the Bible, the term “heaven” is used in multiple ways to describe different realms of reality. To understand its full meaning, we must consider the three distinct “heavens” revealed in Scripture. Each one carries spiritual and theological significance, and together they offer a complete picture of God’s plan for His creation.

1. The First Heaven – The Physical Sky (Natural Realm)

This is the visible heaven—the sky that surrounds the earth. It includes the clouds, the atmosphere, the sun, moon, stars, and planets. It is the realm of weather, birds, and all things visible above the earth. The Bible often uses the word “heaven” to refer to this physical expanse.

Isaiah 55:10 (ESV)

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout…

This is also the realm referred to in the days of Noah when the “windows of heaven” were opened (Genesis 7:11), and in the Psalms when the heavens declare the glory of God:

Psalm 19:1 (ESV)

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.

2. The Second Heaven – The Invisible Spiritual Realm (God’s Dwelling Place)

This is the supernatural realm where God dwells in glory, surrounded by angels and heavenly beings. It is not visible to the natural eye and is unreachable by human means. This is the heaven that Jesus referred to when He spoke of His Father in heaven (Matthew 6:9).

The Apostle Paul referred to this realm as the “third heaven”, also known as Paradise, where he was caught up in a vision:

2 Corinthians 12:2–4 (ESV)

I know a man in Christ… was caught up to the third heaven… caught up into paradise… he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter.

This heavenly realm includes:

  • The Paradise where righteous souls dwell after death (Luke 23:43),
  • The New Jerusalem, the eternal city of God (Revelation 21:1–4),
  • The throne of God, where Christ is seated in glory (Hebrews 12:22–24).

It is the true and eternal home for all who are in Christ. Nothing unclean will ever enter it.

Revelation 21:27 (ESV)

But nothing unclean will ever enter it… but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

Access to this heaven is possible only through faith in Jesus Christ—He is the way, the truth, and the life.

John 14:6 (ESV)

Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

God’s dwelling is described as infinitely majestic, far beyond any physical structure or place on earth.

1 Kings 8:27 (ESV)

But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you…

 

1 Timothy 6:16 (ESV)

[God] alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see.

3. The Symbolic Use of Heaven – Exaltation, Authority, and Spiritual Position

At times, the word “heaven” is used metaphorically to represent great height, authority, or spiritual status.

a) Believers Spiritually Seated with Christ

All who are born again in Christ are already, spiritually speaking, seated with Him in heavenly places, even while still living on earth. This speaks of our new identity and authority in Christ.

Ephesians 2:5–6 (ESV)

Even when we were dead in our trespasses, [God] made us alive together with Christ… and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

b) Earthly Power Symbolized as Reaching Heaven

Kings and nations that become powerful or prideful are sometimes described as reaching heaven. For example, in Daniel’s vision, Nebuchadnezzar’s greatness was likened to a tree reaching the sky.

Daniel 4:22 (ESV)

It is you, O king… your greatness has grown and reaches to heaven…

Likewise, Jesus warned that exalting oneself leads to downfall:

Matthew 11:23 (ESV)

And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades…

Lucifer (Satan) also desired to ascend into heaven to take God’s throne, but was cast down in judgment:

Isaiah 14:13–15 (ESV)

You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven… I will make myself like the Most High.’ But you are brought down to Sheol…

Heaven: Our Eternal Hope and Home

The Bible promises that heaven is not just a concept—it is a real place prepared for a prepared people. Jesus promised His disciples:

John 14:2–3 (ESV)

In my Father’s house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you… I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.

Heaven is the believer’s true citizenship (Philippians 3:20). It is where we will be fully united with God, free from sin, suffering, and death.

Revelation 21:4 (ESV)

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more…

And the blessings of heaven are beyond human comprehension:

1 Corinthians 2:9 (ESV)

What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.

Conclusion:

Heaven is not one simple concept, but a multi-layered reality described throughout Scripture:

1. The First Heaven – the sky, stars, and visible universe.

2. The Second/Third Heaven – the spiritual realm of God’s glory and dwelling.

3. Heaven as a Symbol – used to describe greatness, power, or spiritual elevation.

Ultimately, heaven is our eternal destination—but not by human achievement. We get there only through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who alone has made the way by His death and resurrection.

Acts 4:12 (ESV)

There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

Let us set our hearts on things above (Colossians 3:1–2), and strive by grace to live lives that are worthy of our heavenly calling.

May the Lord bless you and give you a longing for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Amen.

 

 

 

 

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Did the Virgin Mary Have Other Children?

A common question among Christians and Bible readers is whether Mary, the mother of Jesus, remained a virgin for her entire life, or if she had other children after giving birth to Christ. While some church traditions, particularly in Catholic and Orthodox theology, uphold the doctrine of Mary’s perpetual virginity, Scripture provides compelling evidence that Mary had other children—both sons and daughters—after Jesus was born.

Biblical Evidence from Matthew 13:53–57 (NKJV)

Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, that He departed from there.

When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, ‘Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works?’

‘Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas?’

‘And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?’

So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.

 Matthew 13:53–57, NKJV

This passage reveals several important truths:

Jesus had named brothers: James, Joses (Joseph), Simon, and Judas.

He also had sisters, though they are unnamed.

The phrase “His sisters, are they not all with us?” (v.56) suggests that these were known members of the local community—not distant relatives.

The Greek word used here for “brothers” is adelphoi (ἀδελφοί), which most naturally refers to biological siblings—children born of the same mother. Similarly, the Greek term for “sisters” (adelphai) is used in the same plain sense.

Other Supporting Passages

Another key text is found in Mark 6:3 (NKJV):

Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?

 Mark 6:3

Again, the same list of names appears, affirming that Jesus was part of a larger earthly family.

Additionally, in John 7:5, we read:

For even His brothers did not believe in Him.

This shows that Jesus had brothers who initially did not accept His divine mission, a detail that makes the idea of them being merely spiritual “brothers” or cousins less likely.

Clarifying the Word “Brother”

Some traditions argue that “brothers” may refer to cousins or close relatives, especially due to the broader use of familial terms in Semitic cultures. However:

The New Testament was written in Greek, which has specific words for cousin (anepsios), as used in Colossians 4:10 when referring to Mark, the cousin of Barnabas.

The Gospel writers deliberately chose the word adelphoi for Jesus’ brothers, reinforcing the idea that these were Mary’s other biological children.

Did Joseph and Mary Have Marital Relations After Jesus?

Yes. Scripture also suggests that Joseph and Mary had a normal marital relationship after Jesus’ birth.

In Matthew 1:24–25 (NKJV), it says:

Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus.

The phrase “did not know her till…” strongly implies that after the birth of Jesus, Joseph and Mary had normal conjugal relations. The use of the word “firstborn” also implies that there were later children.

Conclusion

While certain traditions maintain that Mary remained a perpetual virgin, a plain and faithful reading of Scripture—especially in passages like Matthew 13:55–56, Mark 6:3, and John 7:5—suggests that Mary had other children after Jesus. She gave birth to both sons and daughters, making Jesus the firstborn, but not the only child.

Thus, based on the clear language of the Bible and its consistent use of familial terms, we can conclude that Mary was the virgin mother of Jesus, but she did not remain a virgin for the rest of her life.

✦ “Your word is truth.” — John 17:17, NKJV

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Did the Virgin Mary Die?

The Bible does not record the death of Mary anywhere. Likewise, it does not provide details about the deaths of many important biblical figures such as the Apostle Peter, Joseph (Mary’s husband), Apostle Paul, Andrew, Thomas, Nathanael, and many other prophets and apostles. Their deaths simply aren’t mentioned in Scripture.

Why doesn’t Scripture record their deaths? Because such details are not essential for our faith or salvation. Knowing exactly when or how they died does not add to the core message of the Gospel. For example, knowing the precise time of Peter’s death doesn’t help us grow spiritually. What matters is that they lived faithfully, served God, and eventually died—Peter (2 Timothy 4:6-7), Paul (2 Timothy 4:6-8), Joseph, and Mary included.

Mary was a human being like any other. Even Elijah, who was taken to heaven without dying, is described in the Bible as “a human being, even as we are” (James 5:17). This shows that while God can take some people to heaven without experiencing death (an exceptional case), this is not the usual order of life. Mary was not one of these exceptions.

Only Jesus Christ is unique—He died, rose again, and ascended into heaven (John 19:30; Luke 24:6-7; Acts 1:9). Salvation is found in Him alone (Acts 4:12). If Mary had a special role in granting salvation, then Christ’s sacrifice would have been unnecessary.

Mary died just like any other human being. This truth does not lessen her importance or role in God’s plan but reminds us that salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone.

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Will the Lord Jesus Come to Israel When He Returns?

Many believers are uncertain about how Jesus’ return will unfold. Understanding His coming involves recognizing three main stages, each with a distinct purpose in God’s redemptive plan.

1. The First Coming

Jesus’ first coming was His incarnation—being born of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-35). During this time, He lived a sinless life, preached the Kingdom of God, performed miracles, died on the cross for our sins, and was resurrected on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Finally, He ascended back to heaven (Acts 1:9). This event fulfilled Old Testament prophecies and secured salvation for all who believe.

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” (John 1:14)

2. The Second Coming (The Rapture)

The second coming, often understood as the rapture, is when Jesus will return to gather His Church. This event does not involve Him fully descending to earth but appearing in the clouds to take believers—both those alive and those who have died—up to heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command… and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive… will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

After this, believers will be with Christ in heaven for a period, commonly understood as the seven-year tribulation period (Revelation 6–18), where God’s judgment unfolds on earth.

3. The Third Coming (The Visible Return and Millennial Reign)

The third coming refers to Jesus’ visible return to earth with His saints (the raptured believers) to:

  • Judge the nations (Matthew 25:31-32),
  • Defeat the forces of evil in the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 19:11-21),
  • Establish His millennial kingdom, a thousand-year reign of peace centered in Israel (Revelation 20:1-6).

This is the coming that “every eye will see” (Revelation 1:7), and Jesus will set up His throne in Jerusalem, making Israel the capital of His earthly kingdom.

“Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him…” (Revelation 1:7)

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What Is Hell (Gehenna)?

The word Hell in the New Testament is often translated from the Greek word Gehenna, which itself is derived from the Hebrew term Ge-Hinnom—meaning Valley of the Son of Hinnom. This was a real valley located south of ancient Jerusalem. Historically, it was a site of detestable pagan worship where people, including the Israelites at times, sacrificed their children in fire to false gods like Molech.

This horrific practice was so offensive to God that He declared judgment on the people of Judah and allowed their captivity by Babylon as a consequence (Jeremiah 7:30-34).

Hell in the Old Testament: Gehenna as a Symbol of Judgment

In the Old Testament, the Valley of Hinnom became a symbol of rebellion against God and divine punishment:

Jeremiah 7:30-31 (NIV):

“The people of Judah have done evil in my eyes, declares the Lord. They have set up their detestable idols in the house that bears my Name and have defiled it. They have built the high places of Topheth in the Valley of Ben Hinnom to burn their sons and daughters in the fire—something I did not command, nor did it enter my mind.”

This act was not only disobedience but spiritual treason. The valley, originally used for child sacrifice, was eventually desecrated by King Josiah, who turned it into a place no longer fit for religious rituals:

2 Kings 23:10 (NIV):

“He desecrated Topheth, which was in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, so no one could use it to sacrifice their son or daughter in the fire to Molek.”

Eventually, the valley became a garbage dump where the city’s waste—including carcasses and even the bodies of criminals—was burned. Fires were kept continually burning, and unquenchable smoke and stench rose from it. This became a vivid image of God’s judgment in Jewish thought.

Hell in the New Testament: Gehenna as Eternal Punishment

In the New Testament, Jesus often referred to Gehenna when warning about final judgment and eternal separation from God. He used the physical characteristics of the Valley of Hinnom—fire, worms, filth, and destruction—as symbols of what awaits those who die in sin.

Mark 9:43-48 (NIV):

“If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. […] where ‘the worms that eat them do not die, and the fire is not quenched.’”

This passage echoes Isaiah 66:24, which also describes divine judgment with undying worms and unquenchable fire. Jesus’ language is symbolic but not merely poetic—He is underscoring the eternal consequence of rejecting God’s grace.

Gehenna became a metaphor for the final destination of the wicked—a place of separation from God, suffering, and eternal regret.

Key Theological Points About Hell:

  1. Hell is Real and Eternal – Not merely symbolic. Jesus spoke about it frequently, emphasizing its permanence (Matthew 25:46).
  2. Hell Is Separation from God’s Presence – 2 Thessalonians 1:9 says, “They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord.”
  3. Hell Was Not Made for Humans Originally – Matthew 25:41 tells us it was “prepared for the devil and his angels,” but those who reject Christ share in that judgment.
  4. God Does Not Delight in Punishment – God desires all to be saved (2 Peter 3:9), but He honors our freedom of choice.

Why Jesus Warned About Hell

Jesus warned about hell not to scare people into obedience, but to show the gravity of sin and the beauty of salvation. His desire is for people to turn to Him, receive forgiveness, and live in eternal fellowship with God.

Are You In Christ or Outside of Him?

If you’ve never made a decision to follow Christ, the invitation is open. Jesus died to save us from sin and its consequences—including hell.

John 3:16 (NIV):

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Repent, believe in the Gospel, and receive Christ. In Him, you’ll find eternal life, peace, and hope. Hell is real—but so is salvation, and it’s offered freely by grace through faith.

Be Blessed, and Share the Good News.
If this message has touched you, consider sharing it with others. You might be the reason someone escapes destruction and finds eternal life.

 

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