Title July 2020

Praise the Lord! Welcome to our Bible study. Today, we’ll briefly explore one of the ways God accelerates our journey to success.

Overcoming Fear

One of the most common obstacles keeping us from moving forward is fear. Whatever we pursue in life, if we could eliminate fear entirely, success would come much more easily and quickly. Many successful entrepreneurs, if you examine their stories, are individuals who took risks and overcame their fears. Risk, in fact, often leads to great rewards something we see throughout scripture. “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26, NIV). Faith often requires stepping into the unknown, something that involves overcoming fear.

The same applies spiritually. Fear is a major barrier to spiritual growth. If the Lord calls you to do something that seems out of the ordinary, something risky or challenging, fear often becomes a reason to hesitate. This is where we need to rely on faith over fear.

The Israelites at the Red Sea: A Powerful Lesson

Let’s take a deeper look at the story of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, one of the most significant moments in the Bible. The Red Sea Crossing serves as an important theological and spiritual lesson about God’s faithfulness.

When the Israelites left Egypt, they came to the Red Sea, a literal and symbolic barrier. God, in His power and sovereignty, commanded Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea so that the waters would part, making way for the Israelites to pass through on dry land (Exodus 14:21-22, NIV). This was a direct manifestation of God’s deliverance something miraculous that seemed utterly impossible. Yet, the Israelites’ response highlights a key human struggle: fear and disbelief.

A Step of Faith

Imagine being in the Israelites’ shoes. The sea in front, an army behind, and nowhere to go. It was a test of faith. As Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV) tells us:

“Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.’”

When Moses spoke to the people, he was calling them to faith over fear. The Israelites had to trust that God was not only capable of parting the sea but was faithful to bring them to their promised future. This is an important theological point: God’s promises are sure. No matter the obstacle, God’s Word is certain.

The Testing of Faith

Just as the Israelites were tested in their faith, we too are often placed in situations that feel overwhelming, with no apparent way out. But it’s in these moments that God’s intervention is most powerful. James 1:2-4 (NIV) reminds us:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

In those moments of pressure, God doesn’t just allow challenges for the sake of challenge, but to refine us, to mature our faith. The Israelites’ faith was being tested in the desert, and so is ours in the journey of life.

The Enemy Behind You: God’s Purpose

Theologically, we understand that God allows trials and even the presence of our enemies for His greater purpose. In the case of the Israelites, God used the pursuing Egyptian army to force them to step out in faith and walk through the Red Sea. They would never have walked through if it weren’t for the threat of destruction behind them.

Exodus 14:17-18 (NIV) states:

“I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them. And I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen. The Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I gain glory through Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen.”

This divine strategy of allowing the enemy to chase the Israelites was part of God’s ultimate plan to demonstrate His sovereignty and power over all nations. The same principle applies to us today: the challenges we face, though difficult, are often opportunities for God to demonstrate His glory and power through us.

God’s Provision and Deliverance

As with the Israelites, when we face the “Red Seas” in our own lives, we may feel trapped or powerless. However, God’s provision is always sufficient. When God asks us to walk a dangerous or uncertain path, His presence is with us to see us through. The Red Sea represents not only a physical barrier but also the spiritual barriers we face in life. But God is faithful to provide a way out.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV), we are reminded that:

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

The Red Sea was the way out for the Israelites. The same God who parted the Red Sea is still at work in our lives today, creating pathways where we see only obstacles.

Trusting God in the Storms

Sometimes God allows us to face seemingly impossible situations, but the goal is to grow our trust in Him. The crossing of the Red Sea was not just about physical deliverance; it was a spiritual lesson. As Moses told the people, “Stand firm and see the deliverance of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13). The deliverance wasn’t just from the army, but from their own fear and doubt.

In our lives, when we find ourselves surrounded by troubles whether it’s financial difficulties, health issues, or other trials this is the time to lean into God. Psalm 46:1 (NIV) says:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Even when the enemy seems close and the sea seems impassable, we can trust in the Lord’s faithfulness to bring us through. God is with us in the fire and the flood.

The Role of Fear and Faith in Our Journey

In the face of danger, we have a choice: will we focus on the fear of the unknown, or will we fix our eyes on the One who has already promised victory? The Israelites’ experience shows us that God is greater than our fears. He is calling us to move forward, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.

In 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV), Paul reminds us:

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”

We are not called to live in fear but in the boldness and power that come from the Holy Spirit. The same God who parted the Red Sea lives in us, giving us the courage to move forward, even when it feels impossible.

Conclusion: God’s Plan for Your Victory

So, as a Christian, when you see the enemy closing in and the sea of challenges ahead, don’t panic. Instead, stand firm and trust that God is at work, making a way where there seems to be no way. God has promised us victory, and He will deliver us, just as He did for the Israelites.

Remember, the Lord fights for you. You need only to trust Him and move forward in faith. The journey may seem perilous, but the rewards are eternal. As Romans 8:37 (NIV) says:

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Trust in His promises, stand firm, and you will see His deliverance.

Maranatha

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We must understand what time we are in right now and what lies ahead. In short, Christ is currently in heaven, seated on His throne of grace. This means that the door of grace remains open to anyone who chooses to enter at any moment. However, this season is not indefinite. There will come a time when this door will close.

Theological Context:
The concept of grace is central to the Christian faith. Grace refers to God’s unmerited favor toward humanity. The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift from God, not based on human effort, but through faith in Jesus Christ. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross made this grace available (Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV).

Revelation 3:20 (NIV):

“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.”
This verse symbolizes the current period of grace in which Christ is calling people to salvation. But we must also be aware that this window of opportunity is not open forever.

However, the alarming part is that the Bible has already prophesied that a time will come when Christ will stand up from His throne. When He stands, something significant follows: He will close that door, which has been open for so long.

Zechariah 2:13 (NIV):

“Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling.”

This passage speaks of a time when God will act decisively in judgment, and the period of grace will come to an end. The “silence” is a prophetic sign that when God acts, there will be no further room for repentance, and the doors will be shut.

Theological Context:
The end of grace signifies the close of the “church age” and the beginning of a time of judgment. This is where the distinction between the “already” (Christ’s first coming) and the “not yet” (Christ’s second coming) comes into play. While grace is available now, the time is coming when God will no longer extend this grace, and judgment will follow.

2 Thessalonians 2:7 (NIV):

“For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way.”

This passage speaks of the restraint placed on sin and lawlessness by the Holy Spirit through the church. When the Holy Spirit is withdrawn (which will happen during the rapture), sin and lawlessness will reach their peak, and the door of grace will close.

Luke 13:24-27 (NIV):

“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’
But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’
Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’
But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evildoers!'”

This passage, from the Gospel of Luke, underscores the urgency of entering the narrow path of salvation while the door remains open. The closed door is a symbol of the finality of judgment. When Christ returns, there will be no second chance for salvation.

Theological Context:
This parable aligns with the doctrine of the “Final Judgment.” It emphasizes that salvation is a personal relationship with Jesus. It’s not about superficial association but about true faith and transformation. The “eating and drinking” and “teaching in our streets” reflect religious familiarity, not authentic repentance or personal commitment to Christ.

Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV):

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

This verse contrasts the broad road (representing worldly living and sin) with the narrow road of salvation, which is through Christ alone. Jesus makes it clear that salvation is not universal; only those who truly follow Him will be saved.

The time is near. If you are still outside of salvation, don’t think it’s too far away. Each passing day brings us closer to the final day of Christ’s return. What seemed distant yesterday is closer today.

This is a wake-up call: time is running out. The opportunity to choose salvation and enter through the narrow gate will not be open forever.

Romans 13:11-12 (NIV):

“And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.”

Christ’s return will be sudden, and for those who are unprepared, it will be too late. This is why it’s essential to make a decision now, while the door of grace is still open.

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.”

Salvation is available freely, through grace. It costs nothing but requires faith in Jesus Christ. The door is open, but the time to enter is limited.

How to Respond:

If you haven’t yet received salvation, now is the time to make a decision. To follow Jesus, you must first decide, with all your heart, to follow Him. This decision includes turning away from sin.

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.”

Many people want Jesus, but they are not willing to forsake their sin. Yet, we must make a clean break from our old life. When you are ready to say, “The world is behind me, and Christ is ahead of me,” He will immediately enter your life.

When God sees this determination in your heart, Christ will come into your life. The next step is to kneel and confess all your wrongdoings to Him, then ask for forgiveness with a truly repentant heart. If you do this sincerely, peace will fill your heart, which will serve as proof of your repentance.

Romans 10:9 (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.”

This is the first step. The second step is baptism the public declaration of your faith in Christ. Find a church that practices proper baptism, according to Scripture (i.e., full immersion in water in the name of Jesus, Acts 2:38).

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.'”

Baptism is an outward expression of the inward transformation that Christ has brought about in your life. Once you are baptized, the Holy Spirit will empower you to walk in the newness of life.

Finally, it’s your responsibility to seek fellowship with other Christians and attend church regularly so that you can grow in your salvation. You must also wait eagerly for the day when Christ will return to take us to be with Him.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV):

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

Theological Context of Grace and Judgment:
The time of grace is currently available, but judgment will come. The doctrine of the Rapture speaks of the moment when Christ returns to take His church, the faithful, from the earth before the tribulation and judgment. After this, the door to salvation will be closed.

As long as grace is still available, remember that the time is short. The door is open, but it won’t remain open forever.

Revelation 3:20 (NIV):

“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.”

God bless you.

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The Philistines were a group of people who lived in the ancient land of Canaan, and they became some of Israel’s most persistent enemies throughout the Old Testament. They were not the original inhabitants of the land but had settled there before the Israelites arrived from Egypt.

In Judges 2:1-3, God commanded the Israelites to drive out all the inhabitants of Canaan and destroy their idols. This was part of God’s covenant with Israel He promised them the land of Canaan if they remained faithful to Him. However, the Israelites failed to fully obey this command, choosing instead to make treaties and leave some of the native groups, like the Philistines, in the land. Judges 1:27-33 highlights Israel’s disobedience, where they didn’t fully conquer the land, allowing these groups to remain and, eventually, to become a source of ongoing conflict.

The Philistines were particularly troublesome. 1 Samuel 4:2-11 shows the first major clash between Israel and the Philistines, where the Israelites were defeated, and the Ark of the Covenant was captured. Over time, God would raise up leaders like Samson and Samuel to deliver Israel from Philistine oppression. However, the Philistines’ impact was profound, and their resistance to Israel’s God would continue through much of Israel’s early history.

Today, the term “Philistine” has evolved into “Palestinian,” a label given by the Greeks after the conquest of the region. The name has continued into modern times and is now used to describe a group of people in the Middle East, many of whom identify with the historic conflict in that area.

Which Country Were the Philistines From?

Although the Philistines were not a unified nation in the modern sense, they occupied five major cities in the southwestern part of ancient Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. These cities Gaza, Ashdod, Gath, Ashkelon, and Ekron formed what was known as the Pentapolis (the five-city alliance). The Philistine cities were strategically positioned to control the trade routes along the coast.

Each of these cities was ruled by a lord or king, as noted in Judges 3:3, where the “five lords of the Philistines” are mentioned. The Philistines were known for their advanced weaponry, including the use of iron tools and weapons, which made them a formidable adversary to the Israelites, who were still using bronze at that time (1 Samuel 13:19-22).

What Can We Learn from the Philistines?

The story of the Philistines holds several theological lessons for us:

1. The Consequences of Disobedience:
   The Philistine conflict arose directly from Israel’s disobedience to God’s command. In Deuteronomy 7:1-5, God warned Israel not to leave any Canaanite group in the land because they would be a snare to them. The failure to fully obey God’s command to eliminate these enemies set the stage for generations of trouble. The ongoing tension between Israel and the Philistines serves as a warning that partial obedience to God’s will often results in long-term consequences.

2. God’s Faithfulness to His Promises:
   Even when Israel was unfaithful, God remained faithful. In 1 Samuel 7:9-11, after the Israelites repented and cried out to God, He used Samuel to defeat the Philistines. This shows that God is always willing to deliver His people when they turn back to Him, despite their failures.

3. The Power of God’s Deliverance:
   The life of Samson (Judges 13-16) highlights that God can use even flawed individuals to fulfill His purposes. Samson’s personal flaws, including his weakness for Philistine women and his rash behavior, did not prevent God from using him to deliver Israel from the Philistines. His story illustrates that God’s will cannot be thwarted by human weaknesses.

4. The Importance of Following God’s Commands:
   The Philistine story reminds us of the importance of obedience to God. Jesus Himself, in Matthew 7:24-27, spoke about the wisdom of building our lives on the solid foundation of His teachings, just as the Israelites were called to build their nation on God’s commands. Ignoring God’s instructions can lead to destruction, both in our personal lives and in the broader scope of society.

Salvation: The Ultimate Command

The most important instruction God gives to humanity today is the call to salvation. John 14:6 is clear: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” This is the most crucial command we must heed. Just as Israel had to obey God’s commands for deliverance from their enemies, we must obey God’s command for salvation through Jesus Christ.

If you are still undecided about your salvation, consider this: 2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” This is the moment to make your peace with God before the return of Christ, who is coming back for His church, as 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 promises. The signs of the times are clear, and we are living in the last days, as foretold in Matthew 24.

The return of Christ could happen at any time, and we must be ready. Salvation is not just an individual matter it’s a call to be part of the eternal kingdom of God.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the history of the Philistines, let’s remember that God’s commands are not to be taken lightly. Disobedience has far-reaching consequences, but God is also merciful and faithful, ready to deliver those who turn back to Him.

If you haven’t yet received Christ, don’t wait. Acts 4:12 says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Seek God’s salvation today, for we live in the last days, and the opportunity to enter the kingdom of God is now.

May God bless you richly.

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(Romans 9:13)

Question: If God truly loves all people, why does the Bible say that He hated Esau?

This is an important and often misunderstood verse. On the surface, it sounds harsh—how could a loving and just God “hate” someone? But to understand this, we must interpret Scripture using sound theology and proper biblical context, not human emotion.

Understanding Romans 9:13

“Just as it is written: ‘Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.’”
— Romans 9:13

This verse is actually a quotation from the Old Testament:

“But I have loved Jacob, and Esau I have hated…”
— Malachi 1:2–3

Here, “love” and “hate” do not refer to emotions in the way humans often understand them. In biblical Hebrew and New Testament Greek, these words can mean “to choose” or “to favor” versus “to reject” or “not to choose.” This is common in ancient idiomatic expressions.

Theologians describe this as the doctrine of divine election—that God, in His sovereign will, chooses certain people or nations for specific purposes in redemptive history.

“…in order that God’s purpose in election might stand: not by works but by Him who calls.”
— Romans 9:11–12

So, when God says He “hated” Esau, it doesn’t mean He wished him evil. Rather, it means He did not choose him as the carrier of the covenant promise (see Genesis 25:23). Jacob was chosen, even before they were born—not because of merit, but because of God’s sovereign purpose.

God’s Love Is Universal, But His Favor Is Conditional

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…”
— John 3:16

Yes, God loves the world—meaning all humanity. But not all people receive His covenant blessings, because not all respond to Him in faith and obedience. God is both loving and holy. He loves people but hates sin and rebellion.

Esau’s life reflected a disregard for spiritual things:

“So Esau despised his birthright.”
— Genesis 25:34

“See that no one is… godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights.”
— Hebrews 12:16

Esau represents those who treat the things of God as worthless. Jacob, though flawed, valued the covenant, and God chose to work through him.

This reinforces the theological truth found in:

“The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”
— Proverbs 16:5

“The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry.”
— Psalm 34:15

Jesus’ Teaching Clarifies the Use of “Hate” in Scripture

Jesus used similar language when teaching about discipleship:

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children… such a person cannot be my disciple.”
— Luke 14:26

Of course, Jesus wasn’t teaching literal hatred. He was emphasizing loyalty to God above all human relationships. The same applies to Romans 9:13—God didn’t emotionally hate Esau, but He gave priority to Jacob in His redemptive plan.

The Sovereignty and Justice of God

Paul, in Romans 9, is not just talking about Esau and Jacob as individuals, but also as representative heads of nations—Edom and Israel. God’s choice of Jacob (Israel) shows that He is not obligated to choose based on human effort, but based on His mercy.

“I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”
— Romans 9:15

This is not unfairness, but divine sovereignty. God knows all things perfectly and makes decisions based on His righteous will and foreknowledge.

What Does This Mean for Us?

This verse reminds us of a powerful truth:
God is sovereign, and we must not take His grace lightly.

Esau lost his place not because of fate, but because of his own choices. He treated God’s blessings as unimportant and gave them up for temporary satisfaction.

We are warned not to do the same.

“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.”
— Philippians 2:12

“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”
— 1 Corinthians 10:12

Final Thoughts: God’s Desire Is For All to Be Saved

Though God chooses according to His will, He is not unjust. He gives everyone the opportunity to repent and believe.

“The Lord is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9

Let us, then, be like Jacob—not perfect, but willing to value God’s promises. Let’s live lives that please God, fearing Him and honoring His Word.

Conclusion:

• God’s “hatred” of Esau means rejection or disapproval, not emotional hostility.
• God is loving, but also righteous and sovereign in choosing whom He uses for His purposes.
• Esau’s life reminds us of the danger of taking spiritual matters lightly.
• We must respond to God’s grace with faith, reverence, and obedience.

Come, Lord Jesus.
(1 Corinthians 16:22)

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(Romans 3:2– “…to them were committed the oracles of God.”)

There are times when God gives us commands that might seem small or even spiritually unimportant. It’s easy to overlook them, thinking we can still serve God faithfully while setting aside what He said. But from God’s perspective, obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22), and ignoring His instructions—even unintentionally—can make our service empty.

1. God’s Instructions May Seem Minor—But They Matter to Him

The Apostle Paul, through the revelation of the Holy Spirit, taught that physical circumcision doesn’t guarantee salvation. If someone breaks God’s law, then circumcision loses its meaning.

“For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.”
(Romans 2:25)

Yet, Paul still acknowledged that circumcision had value. Why? Because it was part of the covenant God gave to Israel.

“Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the oracles of God.”
(Romans 3:2)

The principle is this: Even if a practice no longer holds saving power, it is still meaningful when it originates from God’s command.

2. Christians Too Have Received Divine Instructions—From Jesus Himself

Under the new covenant, Jesus gives clear instruction for all who believe in Him:

“He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
(Mark 16:16)

Here, faith and baptism are both presented as necessary steps toward salvation. Yet some Christians argue that baptism is optional, claiming, “Only faith saves—baptism is just a symbol.”

While it’s true that only the blood of Jesus can cleanse sin (1 John 1:7), baptism is still a command of Christ, and obedience to that command is part of true faith.

3. Obedience is the Foundation of a Secure Christian Life

Jesus asked a powerful question:

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?”
(Luke 6:46)

He then compared two types of people:

• One who hears and obeys His words is like a man building on a solid rock.
• One who hears but ignores His words is like a man building without a foundation.

“…and the ruin of that house was great.”
(Luke 6:49)

If we say Jesus is Lord but refuse to obey His instructions—like baptism—we are deceiving ourselves (James 1:22).

4. What Does Biblical Baptism Actually Mean?

The word “baptize” comes from the Greek baptizō, which means “to immerse” or “to submerge.” That’s why John baptized where “there was much water”:

“Now John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there.”
(John 3:23)

This shows that biblical baptism involved full immersion, not sprinkling.

Also, baptism symbolizes burial and resurrection—you are buried with Christ and raised with Him:

“We were buried with Him through baptism into death… even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
(Romans 6:4)

So baptism by immersion isn’t just symbolic—it’s deeply spiritual, reflecting death to sin and new life in Christ.

5. The Name Matters—Baptism Must Be Done in the Name of Jesus

In the book of Acts, all the believers were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. This wasn’t a ritual—it was a declaration of allegiance to the only One who can save:

• Acts 2:38 – “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”
• Acts 8:16 – “…they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
• Acts 10:48 – “And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.”
• Acts 19:5 – “They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Why Jesus’ name? Because:

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
(Acts 4:12)

6. If You Haven’t Been Baptized—or Were Not Baptized Properly—Now Is the Time

If you’ve never been baptized, or if your baptism didn’t follow the biblical pattern (by immersion, in the name of Jesus), then God is giving you the chance to make it right today.

Baptism doesn’t replace the cross—but it connects you to the work of the cross in obedience and faith. And when you do it God’s way, your salvation is solid, secure, and pleasing before Him.

“And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
(Acts 22:16)

Conclusion

God doesn’t give instructions for no reason. Whether it’s circumcision under the old covenant or baptism under the new, His commands are holy, meaningful, and worthy of our obedience. Don’t let pride, tradition, or misunderstanding cause you to ignore the very thing that God has put in place for your salvation.

The Lord Jesus Christ has spoken—let us hear and obey.

“He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
(Luke 8:8)

May the Lord bless you and lead you into full obedience and truth..

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Some people mistakenly believe that Israel is part of Europe. However, Israel is located on the continent of Asia, specifically in the region called Western Asia, also known as the Middle East.

Asia is the largest continent in the world, and it is divided into six major regions:

1. Northern Asia – e.g., Siberia
2. Southern Asia – e.g., India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
3. Eastern Asia – e.g., China, Japan, North Korea, Taiwan
4. Western Asia (Middle East) – e.g., Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, Saudi Arabia
5. Central Asia – e.g., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan
6. Southeast Asia – e.g., Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia

So, geographically and politically, Israel belongs to Western Asia, grouped with Middle Eastern countries like Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia.

Why Is Israel Spiritually Important?

While Israel is a small country geographically, it holds great importance in God’s plan for humanity. It is the land where Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, was born (Luke 2:4–11), lived, ministered, died, and rose again for the salvation of mankind.

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
— Luke 2:11

Through Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life by faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9). It was in Israel that God fulfilled many of His promises through the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
— John 3:16

Jesus Will Return to Israel

According to biblical prophecy, Jesus will return to earth, and His first physical point of contact will be the Mount of Olives in Israel:

“And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, which faces Jerusalem on the east.”
— Zechariah 14:4

He will come not as a suffering servant, but as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16), and He will establish His kingdom and reign from Jerusalem, the capital of His restored earthly government.

“And the Lord shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be—‘The Lord is one,’ and His name one.”
— Zechariah 14:9

The 1,000-Year Reign and Eternity

When Jesus returns, He will set up a Millennial Kingdom—a period of 1,000 years in which He will rule the earth with justice and peace. During this time, believers (the saints) will reign with Him:

“And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.”
— Revelation 20:4

After the 1,000 years, Satan will be finally defeated, and a new heaven and new earth will be revealed (Revelation 21:1–4). Those who are saved will enter into eternity with God, where there will be no more pain, death, or sorrow.

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.”
— Revelation 21:4

Why This Matters

Understanding the location of Israel is not just a matter of geography—it connects directly to God’s redemptive plan and end-time prophecy. Jesus came to the world through Israel and will return there again. His second coming will mark the beginning of a new era where He will reign forever and ever.

So when we talk about Israel, we’re also talking about the center of God’s covenant, prophecy, and the future reign of Christ. This truth calls us to be ready, watchful, and faithful.

“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
— Matthew 24:44

Shalom (Peace to you in Christ).

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Malachi was a prophet of God, just like others such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Samuel, and Daniel. However, unlike these prophets, Scripture gives us very little personal detail about Malachi’s life. His name only appears in the book that bears his name, and nowhere else in the Bible.

He is known as the last prophet of the Old Testament, and the Book of Malachi, written around 441–400 B.C., is the final book in the Old Testament. Though short — with just four chapters — it contains deep and powerful messages from God to His people.

Was Malachi Really the Last Prophet?

Saying Malachi was the “last prophet” doesn’t mean no other prophets ever came after him. During the 400 years between Malachi and the New Testament (called the intertestamental period), other people may have claimed to speak for God. However, the Holy Spirit did not authorize their words to be part of the inspired Scriptures (2 Peter 1:20–21).

2 Peter 1:21
“For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”

Any writings not included in the Old Testament canon are not inspired by God, and trying to give them equal authority is spiritually dangerous. This can open the door for deception and confusion (Revelation 22:18–19).

Therefore, Malachi’s book marks the close of the Old Testament. All later additions are considered non-canonical (not divinely inspired).

Malachi’s Prophecy About Elijah

One of the most unique revelations Malachi received was the prophecy about the return of Elijah before the great judgment day of the Lord:

Malachi 4:5–6 
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.
And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers,
Lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.”

This prophecy was fulfilled in John the Baptist, who came in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for the coming of Jesus the Messiah:

Matthew 17:11–13 
Jesus answered and said to them, “Indeed, Elijah is coming first and will restore all things.
But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished.
Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.”
Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.

This fulfillment shows how God uses prophetic symbols and forerunners in redemptive history, leading to Christ’s first coming and preparing us for His return.

Malachi’s Message About Tithing

Malachi also received one of the clearest revelations in the Bible about tithing and offerings. God accuses the people of robbing Him by withholding what belongs to Him:

Malachi 3:8–10 
“Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings.
You are cursed with a curse, for you have robbed Me, even this whole nation.
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the Lord of hosts,
“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it.”

Here, God invites His people to test His faithfulness, promising to bless those who give in obedience (see also 2 Corinthians 9:6–8).

God’s Emotions and Values Revealed

Malachi also reveals God’s emotional response to His people’s behavior. Through him, God exposes attitudes and actions that offend or grieve His heart, even when people are unaware of it.

1. God Hates Divorce

Malachi 2:16 
“For the Lord God of Israel says
That He hates divorce,
For it covers one’s garment with violence,”
Says the Lord of hosts.

This shows God’s view of marriage as a sacred covenant, not something to break lightly (see also Matthew 19:6).

2. God Is Weary of Empty Words

Malachi 2:17 
“You have wearied the Lord with your words;
Yet you say,
‘In what way have we wearied Him?’
In that you say,
‘Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord,
And He delights in them,’
Or, ‘Where is the God of justice?’”

God is grieved when people distort justice or question His character, calling evil good and ignoring accountability (see Isaiah 5:20).

3. God Hears Our Complaints

Malachi 3:13–14 
“Your words have been harsh against Me,” says the Lord,
“Yet you say,
‘What have we spoken against You?’
You have said,
‘It is useless to serve God;
What profit is it that we have kept His ordinance,
And that we have walked as mourners
Before the Lord of hosts?’”

Some people were discouraged and cynical, thinking serving God had no reward. But God warns us not to speak faithless words, especially in hard times.

God Remembers the Faithful

In contrast, God honors those who fear Him and speak rightly about Him. Their names are written in His Book of Remembrance:

Malachi 3:16–17 
Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another,
And the Lord listened and heard them;
So a book of remembrance was written before Him
For those who fear the Lord
And who meditate on His name.
“They shall be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts,
“On the day that I make them My jewels.”

This is a reminder that God is not unjust to forget our work (Hebrews 6:10). Every act of faith and every word of reverence is precious to Him.

God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Though the Book of Malachi is short, it contains powerful spiritual lessons about faithfulness, reverence, stewardship, marriage, and God’s judgment.

If we take time to read it prayerfully — inviting the Holy Spirit to teach us — we will gain much that will build us up and help the Church of Christ.

May God help us not just to read His Word, but to live it out.

Malachi 1

(“Our Lord is coming” – 1 Corinthians 16:22)

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In the Swahili language, both “Mithali” and “Methali” mean the same thing—short, wise sayings that convey life lessons. Proverbs often summarize deep truths in a simple way. Some are straightforward, while others require reflection to understand their full meaning.

For example, the proverb:
“A friend in need is a friend indeed”
This teaches that a true friend is someone who stays with you during times of hardship—not just during times of joy or success. It mirrors the biblical principle in:

Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

Another example is the Swahili proverb:
“He who wants what is under the bed must bend down to get it.”
Its meaning is symbolic: To obtain something valuable in life, one must be willing to humble themselves, take action, or pay a cost. It echoes the biblical truth that wisdom, success, and blessings often require effort and sacrifice:

Luke 14:28 
“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost…?”

Proverbs in the Bible: Divine Wisdom, Not Just Human Insight

The Bible isn’t just a book of history or commandments—it is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16). It includes comfort, instruction, correction, and many proverbs that are far richer than human sayings.

Many of these biblical proverbs were written by King Solomon, the son of David. Solomon didn’t ask God for riches, but for wisdom to rule God’s people. God was pleased with his request and gave him unmatched wisdom, making him one of the wisest men who ever lived (1 Kings 3:9–12).

1 Kings 4:29–34 
“God gave Solomon wisdom and exceedingly great understanding… He spoke three thousand proverbs, and his songs were one thousand and five… and men of all nations came to hear the wisdom of Solomon.”

Solomon’s writings, especially in the book of Proverbs, are still studied today because they contain God-given insight for every area of life—relationships, finances, work, speech, and spiritual growth.

Biblical Proverbs That Apply to Everyday Life

Let’s explore some of these divinely inspired proverbs and their theological meaning:

1. How to Treat Your Enemies

It’s human nature to rejoice when someone who hurt us fails—but God teaches a different way:

Proverbs 24:17–18
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles; lest the Lord see it, and it displease Him, and He turn away His wrath from him.”

God calls us to love our enemies and not delight in their downfall. Jesus later taught the same principle:

Matthew 5:44 
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you…”

Forgiveness and compassion are signs of a heart transformed by grace.

Proverbs 25:21–22 
“If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for so you will heap coals of fire on his head, and the Lord will reward you.”

This reveals a kingdom principle: When we respond to evil with kindness, it convicts the offender and honors God. The “coals of fire” symbolize deep conviction, and God promises a reward for such love.

2. Choosing the Right Path in Life

Proverbs 14:12 
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Not every path that seems good is God’s path. Our human reasoning is flawed due to sin (Jeremiah 17:9). We need God’s Word and the Holy Spirit to discern truth from deception:

Psalm 119:105 
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Popular opinions and personal feelings can lead us astray, but God’s Word always leads to life.

3. The Bible Is Our Source of Divine Wisdom

The books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Psalms, and Job are filled with God’s wisdom. They teach about the fear of the Lord, the power of speech, the importance of diligence, and the blessings of humility. While we cannot list all proverbs here, even a few are enough to demonstrate how rich and relevant Scripture is for today.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…”

Reading the Bible regularly opens your eyes to truths that bring healing, direction, and transformation.

Start Today—Seek Wisdom from God’s Word

If you haven’t already, make it a habit to read the book of Proverbs and other parts of the Bible. You’ll find guidance for relationships, work, character, and even emotional struggles. Some proverbs are direct, while others are symbolic—but don’t worry. The Holy Spirit is with us to help reveal their meaning (John 14:26).

James 1:5 
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach…”

God’s wisdom is not hidden from us—it’s available to anyone who seeks it humbly.

The Bible is not just a religious book—it is a manual for life. It contains God’s wisdom, encouragement, correction, and deep truths for everyday living. The proverbs in Scripture are not outdated—they are more relevant now than ever.

Start reading today. Let God’s Word shape your thinking, guide your steps, and fill your heart with truth.

May the Lord bless you as you walk in His wisdom.

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