1. Understanding the Old Covenant
When we talk about the New Covenant, it’s important to first understand the Old Covenant, because the New came to fulfill and surpass the Old (Hebrews 8:6–13). The Bible itself is divided into two major sections:
The Old Covenant began when God made a covenant with Abraham—not just a casual promise, but a divine agreement involving obedience, blessing, and descendants.
Genesis 17:1–2 “I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless. And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly.”
God then changed Abram’s name to Abraham (“father of many”), gave him the land of Canaan, and required circumcision as a sign of the covenant (Genesis 17:4–11). This covenant was both relational (God would be their God) and territorial (the promised land).
Later, Abraham’s descendants (Israel) became a great nation but didn’t fully know God. So in the wilderness, God gave them the Law through Moses—not to save them, but to teach them how to live as God’s holy people.
Galatians 3:19 “What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made…”
These laws were written in the first five books of the Bible (the Torah):
This became known as the Mosaic Covenant, which defined Israel’s national identity and relationship with God. But it was still temporary and incomplete.
The Old Covenant, though holy, could not save anyone. It exposed sin but could not remove it.
Hebrews 10:1 “For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices… make those who approach perfect.”
Israel frequently broke the covenant. Their hearts remained hard. God, through the prophets, promised a New Covenant that would transform people from the inside out.
Jeremiah 31:31–33 “Behold, the days are coming… when I will make a new covenant… I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”
Just like the Old Covenant began with one man (Abraham), the New Covenant also begins with one Man—Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 8:6 “But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.”
Jesus is the Mediator of this New Covenant, which offers:
This covenant is not based on blood sacrifices of animals, but on the shed blood of Jesus.
Luke 22:20 “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
Unlike the Old Covenant, which was limited to Abraham’s physical descendants (Israel), the New Covenant is open to all nations—Jew and Gentile alike.
To be part of the New Covenant:
John 3:3 “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
In the Old Covenant, circumcision was the outward sign. In the New Covenant, it is baptism—a sign of spiritual circumcision and dying to the old life.
Colossians 2:11–12 “In Him you were also circumcised… by the circumcision of Christ, buried with Him in baptism…”
Baptism is not just a ritual—it is a declaration that we belong to Jesus, having died to sin and been raised to new life.
Just like Israel had to learn and follow God’s laws in the Old Covenant, believers in Christ must also learn and obey the teachings of Christ and His apostles.
This is why we have the 27 books of the New Testament:
Matthew 28:20 “Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you…”
The New Covenant is the covenant God made through Jesus Christ for the salvation of all who believe. It replaces the Old Covenant and brings:
Romans 8:1–2 “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus… For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.”
This is a question every person must answer. Are you still living outside of this covenant, or have you been born again in Christ?
1 Peter 2:9–10 “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood… who once were not a people but are now the people of God…”
If not, don’t delay. Invite Jesus into your life today. Be born again. Be baptized. Receive the Holy Spirit. Join the royal family of God.
This is a gift of grace. As Gentiles, we never deserved this covenant, but by Christ’s mercy, we are now included. Don’t take it for granted.
If you are in Christ, you are now:
Live in this grace. Grow in it. Teach others. And never turn back.
Amen. Hallelujah!
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What is God’s love, and why is it so important?
Before we can understand God’s love, it helps to understand the different kinds of love that exist in Scripture and in life. The Bible and human experience show three main types of love: Eros, Phileo, and Agape.
Eros is the love that comes from emotion and physical attraction, usually between a husband and wife. It is natural, beautiful, and celebrated in Scripture. For example, Solomon describes the love between him and his bride in the Song of Solomon:
Song of Solomon 1:13–17 (NIV)
“My beloved is like a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts. My beloved is like a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En Gedi. Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved; your eyes are doves. Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved, and pleasant; our couch is green. The beams of our house are cedar; our rafters are fir.”
Eros is God-ordained within marriage (Genesis 2:24), reflecting His creative design. However, it is limited—it depends on mutual attraction and intimacy.
Phileo is the love that develops from friendship, family, or shared experiences. It is the love you feel for siblings, friends, coworkers, fellow students, or fellow believers.
While positive, this love is conditional. It often relies on connection, benefit, or familiarity. If the circumstances change, this love can fade.
Jesus pointed out the limitation of Phileo-type love:
Matthew 5:46–48 (NIV)
“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? If you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Human love, even among believers, is imperfect. It cannot meet God’s standard because it is conditional. Only God’s love is perfect.
Agape is the highest and most important love. It is unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial. God’s love does not depend on feelings, circumstances, or whether the other person deserves it. You love even when it is difficult, even when the other person hates you, ignores you, or treats you wrongly.
Jesus exemplified this love: He died for sinners while we were still enemies (Romans 5:8).
The Bible describes the characteristics of God’s love:
1 Corinthians 13:4–8 (NIV)
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
Agape is the love that originates from God Himself (1 John 4:8). It is eternal and perfect, unlike human love which is limited and conditional.
God’s love for humanity is the ultimate example of Agape. John 3:16 (NIV) captures this truth:
“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.”
Even sinners are loved by God. He desires to save us from sin and eternal separation from Him. No matter how far we have strayed, His love is ready to forgive and restore us.
Application: Do not harden your heart. Receive God’s love today and accept His forgiveness. These are the last days, and without repentance, dying in sin leads to eternal separation from God (Luke 13:3; Revelation 21:8).
Shalom.
God’s love is unique, unconditional, and eternal. It is not dependent on who we are or what we do—it is freely given and transformative.
“Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee…” — These are words from one of the most beloved Christian hymns. But behind this hymn lies a powerful real-life testimony that many have never heard.
This song was written by Augustus Montague Toplady, a Protestant preacher from England. In the year 1763, while journeying to preach in a village called Blagdon, he was suddenly caught in a fierce and frightening storm. There was nowhere to shelter from the downpour. But nearby, he saw a large rock formation with a small cleft—just big enough for one person to hide in.
As the wind howled and rain poured, he stepped into that crack in the rock and remained there until the storm passed. While standing there, cold and trembling, he began to reflect on how this physical rock was sheltering him—and how, in the same way, Jesus Christ is our spiritual Rock, our place of refuge and safety in the storms of life.
Right there, the words of the hymn began to form in his heart: “Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee…”
This experience birthed one of the greatest hymns of the Christian faith, which has blessed believers around the world for over two centuries.
In Scripture, the “Rock” is a common metaphor for God’s strength, stability, and protection.
“He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.” — Psalm 62:6
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul reveals that this “spiritual rock” was not just a metaphor, but a reference to Christ Himself:
“And all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 10:4
Just like the rock that provided water and shelter to the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 17:6), Christ gives us spiritual life, protection, and refreshment. He is the unchanging foundation we can trust when life becomes uncertain.
Life will bring storms — emotional, spiritual, physical, and financial. You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless. But just like Toplady found shelter in that cleft of the rock, you too can find your hiding place in Christ.
“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge…” — Psalm 18:2
Jesus is not only a shelter in the storm; He is also the source of living water in dry seasons and the shade in times of intense heat:
“When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the LORD will answer them…” — Isaiah 41:17 “…a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat…” — Isaiah 25:4
“When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the LORD will answer them…” — Isaiah 41:17
“…a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat…” — Isaiah 25:4
Ask yourself honestly:
If you haven’t yet given your life to Jesus, this is the moment. Don’t wait for the storm to arrive. Come to Him now—He is ready to receive you, forgive you, and become your eternal refuge.
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” — Matthew 7:24
But if you already belong to Christ, and you’re going through hardship—don’t be discouraged. Storms may come, but the Rock remains. His love doesn’t fade. His promises stand.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
So remember the cross, reflect on your Savior, and draw near to Him in worship. You may be going through a hard season, but your Redeemer is near, and He will carry you through.
Sing or meditate on this hymn not just as poetry, but as a prayer and declaration of faith:
Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee; Let the water and the blood, From Thy wounded side which flowed, Be of sin the double cure; Cleanse me from its guilt and power.
Not the labors of my hands Can fulfill Thy law’s demands; Could my zeal no respite know, Could my tears forever flow, All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling; Naked, come to Thee for dress; Helpless, look to Thee for grace; Foul, I to the fountain fly; Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath, When mine eyes shall close in death, When I rise to worlds unknown And behold Thee on Thy throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.
Jesus Christ is the Rock of Ages—unchanging, unshakable, and eternally faithful. Whether you’re facing a storm or walking through a dry wilderness, He is your hiding place, your strength, your Savior.
Run to Him today—and you will never be forsaken.
“For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.” — Psalm 61:3
The Bible teaches that the world will face a definite end, and signs show we are living in the last days (Matthew 24:3–14; 2 Timothy 3:1–5). However, many people are spiritually blind, unable to see the truth because Satan has deceived them (2 Corinthians 4:4). Instead, they live for worldly pleasures, unaware that sudden judgment is coming, just as it happened in the days of Noah and Sodom (Luke 17:26–30).
The first major event is the Rapture—when Jesus will come to take all true believers to heaven. This is a secret catching away of the Church before the tribulation (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; John 14:2–3).
The Rapture shows God’s mercy, removing His people before His judgment falls on the earth (1 Corinthians 15:51–52).
If the Rapture happened today, the earth would only have about 7 more years left, as prophesied in Daniel 9:24–27. Daniel’s seventy weeks prophecy is often understood to outline this period of tribulation.
After the Rapture, the Antichrist will appear and rule the world temporarily, bringing a period of severe suffering known as the Great Tribulation (Revelation 13; Matthew 24:15–21). The Antichrist will commit the “abomination of desolation” (Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15), a blasphemous act that defiles the holy place and signals the start of God’s wrath.
This period tests the faith of those left on earth and shows the severity of rebellion against God.
During the tribulation, God will pour out His wrath through a series of judgments called the seven bowls of wrath (Revelation 16). These punish those who refuse to repent and acknowledge God’s sovereignty.
This reveals God’s justice and holiness, demonstrating that sin cannot go unpunished (Romans 1:18).
At the end of the tribulation, Jesus will return visibly to judge the nations, separating people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats (Matthew 25:31–46). The “sheep” are those who have shown faith and righteousness; the “goats” are those who have rejected God.
This judgment emphasizes the importance of living a life of obedience and compassion (James 2:14–26).
Jesus will then establish His kingdom on earth, reigning for 1,000 years in peace and righteousness (Revelation 20:1–6). During this time, Satan will be bound, preventing him from deceiving the nations.
This period fulfills God’s promise to restore creation and bring peace (Isaiah 11:6–9; Psalm 72).
At the end of the millennium, Satan will be released briefly to deceive the nations once more but will be finally defeated and thrown into the lake of fire—eternal punishment (Revelation 20:7–10).
This shows the final victory of God over evil and the permanent removal of sin.
Then the last judgment takes place: all the dead are raised and judged according to their deeds (Revelation 20:11–15). Those not found in the Book of Life are cast into the lake of fire.
This final judgment affirms God’s righteousness and the eternal consequences of rejecting Him.
Finally, God creates a new heaven and new earth, where He dwells with His people forever (Revelation 21:1–4). The New Jerusalem comes down from heaven as God’s eternal home with humanity.
“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.” (Revelation 21:4)
There will be no more pain, suffering, or death. Eternal life with God is the ultimate hope and destiny for believers (John 3:16; Romans 8:18–25).
Because these things could happen at any time, it is our responsibility to live ready and faithful lives.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42)
Let us walk in holiness, love, and obedience, so we will be part of God’s eternal kingdom (2 Peter 3:11–14).
The Bible occasionally mentions a mysterious creature called Leviathan, particularly in poetic and prophetic books. The name itself evokes awe, mystery, and even fear—but what does it really represent? Was Leviathan a real creature, a symbol, or both? And what can believers learn from its mention in scripture?
In Psalm 104:25–26, Leviathan is described as one of God’s sea creatures:
“There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number—living things both large and small. There the ships go to and fro, and Leviathan, which you formed to frolic there.” (Psalm 104:25–26, NIV)
This passage presents Leviathan as part of the natural world—something God created to inhabit and enjoy the sea. This suggests it could have been a real animal, possibly now extinct. Some scholars and theologians suggest it may refer to a large marine reptile (like a plesiosaur), a crocodile, or another sea creature that ancient people observed and described in poetic language.
This view aligns with the reality that many species on Earth remain undiscovered, and many others have gone extinct. Scientific estimates indicate that 200–2,000 species disappear each year. Some creatures once feared or revered in ancient times may have vanished before the modern age could study them.
While Leviathan might have been a real creature, scripture also uses it symbolically, especially in prophetic and apocalyptic texts. In Isaiah 27:1, Leviathan is portrayed as a force of evil to be defeated by God:
“In that day the Lord will punish with his sword—his fierce, great and powerful sword—Leviathan the gliding serpent, Leviathan the coiling serpent; he will slay the monster of the sea.” (Isaiah 27:1, NIV)
Here, Leviathan symbolizes chaotic, evil forces—possibly representing Satan or empires opposed to God. The “sea” in biblical imagery often represents chaos, danger, or nations in rebellion (cf. Revelation 13:1; Daniel 7:3). Leviathan, as a “monster of the sea,” becomes a picture of spiritual and political forces hostile to God’s kingdom.
Leviathan is also described in detail in Job 41, where God uses the creature to demonstrate His unmatched power:
“Can you pull in Leviathan with a fishhook or tie down its tongue with a rope? … Nothing on earth is its equal— a creature without fear. It looks down on all that are haughty; it is king over all that are proud.” (Job 41:1, 33–34, NIV)
Here, Leviathan is a symbol of something beyond human control, meant to humble Job. God emphasizes that if Job cannot contend with Leviathan, how can he question the Creator? The passage underscores the greatness of God compared to human beings and serves as a poetic climax to God’s response to Job’s questioning.
The New Testament speaks of a “man of lawlessness” or Antichrist—an ultimate adversary of Christ—who will be revealed in the last days. This figure is aligned with Satan and mirrors Leviathan’s destructive nature:
“And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.” (2 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV)
This parallels Isaiah’s image of the Lord destroying Leviathan with His sword. In this way, Leviathan becomes a symbolic forerunner or image of the Antichrist, or any demonic force resisting God’s rule. Just as Leviathan is too powerful for humans to subdue, so too is the Antichrist beyond human resistance—but both will be destroyed by God’s power.
Even though Leviathan is presented as mighty, the Bible teaches that God gave humans dominion over all living things:
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image… so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky…’” (Genesis 1:26, NIV)
This means no creature, no matter how mighty, is greater than mankind in authority. Creatures like Leviathan, even if real, are part of creation and under God’s command—and ultimately, under the stewardship of humanity.
The true message behind Leviathan is not to invoke fear, but to remind us of God’s sovereignty and the ongoing spiritual battle. The same forces Leviathan represents—pride, rebellion, chaos—still exist spiritually in the world. Paul warns that the “mystery of lawlessness” is already at work (2 Thessalonians 2:7), and believers must remain alert.
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12, NIV)
Thus, our focus should not be on physical monsters, but on resisting spiritual deception, standing in truth, and trusting in God’s ultimate victory.
Leviathan may have been a real sea creature or a poetic symbol—or both. But its role in Scripture goes beyond biology or myth. It challenges us to recognize the greatness of God, to trust in His sovereignty, and to prepare ourselves for the spiritual battles of today and the last days.
God will destroy all evil—including the Leviathan-like forces at work in the world. Let us stay faithful, alert, and grounded in truth.
Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus!
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There is significant meaning behind Joseph being a carpenter, and likewise, why our Lord Jesus Christ worked as a carpenter before beginning His public ministry.
This is shown in Scripture:
Mark 6:3 says,
“Isn’t this the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren’t His sisters here with us?” And they took offense at Him.
Similarly,
Matthew 13:55 says, “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?”
From these passages, we understand that Jesus and His earthly father, Joseph, were well known in their community because of their work as carpenters. Carpentry in biblical times was skilled labor, requiring precision and patience. It was not simply manual labor but an art of creating useful, beautiful items (cf. Proverbs 22:29, “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings…”).
Jesus’ work as a carpenter was more than a job—it was a preparation and demonstration of His submission to God the Father’s will. His earthly vocation models humility and the value of honest labor (cf. Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…”).
God used this aspect of Jesus’ life to teach us about spiritual building. Just as a carpenter must carefully measure, saw, hammer nails, and follow a plan, Jesus was preparing to build the Church, the spiritual “house” of God (cf. Ephesians 2:19-22). This work required obedience, skill, and patience, reflecting His obedience to the Father’s will.
In John 5:19-20, Jesus explains this divine relationship:
“Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all He does. Yes, and He will show Him even greater works than these, so that you will be amazed.”
This passage emphasizes Jesus’ complete submission to the Father’s authority and perfect unity with Him (cf. John 10:30).
When Jesus called His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24), He was illustrating the spiritual “building” work of God’s kingdom that requires sacrifice and obedience—not self-will.
Similarly, the call to believe and be baptized for salvation (Mark 16:16) is grounded in the Father’s plan for redemption, highlighting the necessity of faith and obedience in the new covenant (cf. Romans 6:3-4).
Jesus’ promise that His followers will face trials (John 16:33) is a reminder that sanctification is a process involving suffering and endurance, just as He experienced on earth. Philippians 1:29 states,
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.”
This suffering produces spiritual maturity and completes God’s work in us (James 1:2-4).
Therefore, as followers of Christ—the Master Carpenter and faithful Lord—we must allow Him to shape our lives according to God’s perfect plan. Like metal refined by fire (Malachi 3:3) or wood carefully measured and nailed, we must endure trials patiently, trusting God’s refining work.
One day, when we reach our eternal home, we will fully comprehend the value of this process. Jesus reassures us in John 14:1-4
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”
This passage points to the hope of eternal life and the ultimate “building” God is doing—the preparation of a place for His people in heaven.
May the Lord bless you.
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ!
Welcome to this Bible study. The Bible is the inspired and living Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), and it is our guiding light and lamp for life (Psalm 119:105). To live a fulfilled and peaceful life, we must learn to obey and firmly hold on to God’s Word. Without this, we risk unnecessary trouble and broken relationships.
Many people seek friendship and family bonds, hoping for comfort in difficult times. Yet, often these relationships, which start well, end in pain and conflict. Some even pursue marriage expecting happiness, but end up in bitterness and brokenness.
Why does this happen? The answer goes back to the beginning—in the Garden of Eden.
Understanding what happened there helps us avoid repeating those mistakes and suffering their consequences.
The first two “friends” whose relationship shifted from harmony to hostility were the Woman and the Serpent. Both were in God’s presence, but after disobedience, God Himself placed enmity between them. This teaches us that sin breaks fellowship—not only between humans and God but also among people.
Genesis 3:14–15
“The LORD God said to the serpent, ‘Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and all wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and eat dust all the days of your life. 15 I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.’”
This passage is the first prophecy of the gospel (the protoevangelium), showing that God’s plan includes victory over evil through the offspring of the woman (Jesus Christ). The enmity is real and ongoing, showing how sin disrupts relationships and causes conflict.
Many do not realize that sudden enmity arising between friends or family can be God’s judgment on disobedience, not just the work of Satan.
For example, a woman may meet a man she believes is her future husband. Though she knows premarital intimacy is forbidden (1 Corinthians 6:18–20; Hebrews 13:4), she disobeys God’s Word, thinking it will bring love and closeness. Instead, she experiences rejection and pain.
Courtship is meant to be a time of preparation and respect, not secret meetings or physical intimacy (Song of Solomon 2:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). Kissing and being alone before marriage open the door for Satan to sow confusion and strife.
These “small” matters may seem unimportant, but they affect the foundation of relationships. God honors those who honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30). If the person you desire is truly God’s choice, he or she will love and respect your obedience to God’s standards.
God cannot bless a union built on sin (Hebrews 13:4). His purpose for marriage is blessing, unity, and holiness (Ephesians 5:22–33). Therefore, when people engage in sexual immorality, God distances or divides them (Romans 1:24–28).
The story of Amnon and Tamar (2 Samuel 13:1–21) powerfully illustrates how sin leads to bitter hatred, even between close family members. After forcing Tamar, Amnon hated her deeply, showing the destructive power of sin on relationships.
There is a spiritual principle: breaking God’s commands often brings conflict and division (James 4:1–3).
Even the people building the Tower of Babel began united but ended in confusion and division when they opposed God’s will (Genesis 11).
But the opposite is true for those who walk in obedience and reverence before God. He promises peace—even with enemies.
Proverbs 16:7
“When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”
Therefore, hold firmly to God’s Word. If you want peace in your relationships, obey God fully. Don’t be like Eve who thought that disobedience would bring blessing, but instead it brought enmity.
May the Lord help us all.
If you have not given your life to Jesus Christ, now is the time. Repent sincerely (Acts 3:19), stop living in sin, find a true local church (Hebrews 10:25), be baptized (Matthew 28:19), and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in truth (John 16:13).
The Lord is Coming.
When we finally cross over into eternity, God has prepared different kinds of rewards for His people. According to Scripture, there will be both public rewards—visible and known by all—and private rewards, known only by the person receiving them and God Himself.
To understand this, think of a wedding. The bride and groom often receive two kinds of gifts. Some are presented publicly—like furniture, utensils, or land. These are announced openly and everyone sees them. But other gifts come discreetly—inside sealed envelopes, boxes, or bags. Only the couple knows what’s inside: perhaps a check, a phone, a watch, or even car keys.
Later, if the groom drives that car, people might assume he worked hard to buy it. But in reality, it was a secret gift—known only to the giver and receiver. In the same way, when we arrive in heaven, God will give us visible rewards for our faithfulness (2 Corinthians 5:10), but He also promises to give personal, hidden rewards—like a new name—which only the individual will know.
Revelation 2:17 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.”
This verse reveals a deeply personal promise: God will give each overcomer a new name engraved on a white stone. This is not just symbolic—it represents new identity, new purpose, and a personal relationship with God that no one else can fully understand.
Even our Lord Jesus has a unique name given to Him by the Father after His victory over sin and death:
Revelation 19:12 “His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself.”
In Scripture, a person’s name carries more than just identification—it represents destiny, authority, character, and calling.
For example:
In all these cases, the new name marked a new season of divine identity and purpose.
So in heaven, God will give new names to those who overcame the trials of this world through faith and perseverance. These names will reflect their true identity in Christ, their eternal reward, and their heavenly authority in the coming Kingdom.
Others will see the power and results of those names—but the names themselves will remain personal, a secret between God and the one who receives it. It is a mark of deep, individual intimacy with the Father.
This is a precious promise. But how do we become overcomers who qualify for such a reward?
Let’s return to the verse in Revelation 2:16
“Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.”
To overcome, we must:
If you haven’t, know that time is short. Every new day brings us closer to the end. One day soon, the Rapture will happen (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17), and the door of grace will close. After that, there will be no more opportunity to repent or enter the Kingdom.
As it is written:
Ecclesiastes 11:3 “If the clouds are full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth; and if a tree falls to the south or the north, in the place where the tree falls, there it shall lie.”
In other words, your eternal destiny will be fixed when life ends. There is no second chance afterward.
Make your decision now. Give your life to Christ. Walk with Him. Serve Him. And look forward not only to eternal life but to the joy of receiving a new name—a personal token of victory, love, and eternal identity from your Creator.
The Lord is coming soon.
Dreams are one of the many ways God can communicate with us, but not all dreams are spiritual in nature. When someone dreams about playing football, it can mean different things depending on the context and the spiritual sensitivity of the person. Biblically, dreams often come from one of two main sources:
Ecclesiastes 5:3 (NKJV) says,
“For a dream comes through much activity, and a fool’s voice is known by his many words.”
This means that some dreams are simply the product of our daily thoughts, emotions, and routines. If you’ve recently been watching, playing, or even thinking a lot about football, it’s very natural for your mind to replay those activities while you sleep.
In fact, this is the most common cause of football-related dreams, especially among men who either currently play or once played the sport.
In such cases, there’s no spiritual meaning behind the dream it’s just your mind processing your daily life. There’s no need for concern.
However, when a dream about playing football stands out when it’s intense, symbolic, or lingers in your spirit it may carry a deeper, spiritual message from God.
Let’s say, in the dream, you were playing in a serious competition. Maybe your team was being defeated, or you were winning overwhelmingly. Maybe you felt pressure, fatigue, or stood out as an exceptional player or a failing one. If you wake up feeling impacted by the dream, it may be God using a familiar image (football) to deliver a divine message.
The Bible often compares the Christian life to a race or a contest, requiring discipline, focus, and perseverance. Life is a battlefield and a competition for our soul.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV):
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”
Theological insight: Paul here draws a parallel between athletic discipline and spiritual discipline. In the same way a footballer trains to win a trophy, believers are called to live with purpose, integrity, and persistence to receive the eternal reward the crown of life (James 1:12).
Sometimes, especially when we are not paying attention during our waking hours, God uses dreams to capture our attention.
Job 33:14–16 (NKJV):
“For God may speak in one way, or in another,Yet man does not perceive it.In a dream, in a vision of the night,When deep sleep falls upon men,While slumbering on their beds,Then He opens the ears of men,And seals their instruction.”
Theological insight: Dreams can be divine tools for instruction, correction, or calling. If you keep having the same type of dream or it strongly affects you, God may be reminding you of your spiritual responsibility or calling.
Ask yourself:
Am I living with purpose?
Am I in the race God set for me?
Am I spiritually disciplined, or have I become careless?
Is God calling me to salvation, repentance, or deeper commitment?
If you’re not yet in Christ, such a dream could be God’s call to enter the race to begin your journey of faith.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NKJV):
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day…”
If you’ve come across this message, it’s not by chance. God may be trying to reach your heart. Whether the dream is simply from your daily activities or from God Himself, take a moment to reflect spiritually.
God has a purpose for your life. He loves you, and He desires that you join His race not for a perishable trophy, but for eternal life.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV):
“…Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…”
Today is a good day to respond to God. Don’t ignore the call. Start running the race He designed just for you.
Be blessed.
Love is one of the most central themes in the Christian faith. It is both an emotion and an action expressed through compassion, sacrifice, acceptance, and commitment to others. In Scripture, love is not merely a feeling, but a command, a calling, and the very nature of God Himself.
“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:8, ESV
The Bible reveals three main types of love, particularly through the original Greek words used in the New Testament: Eros, Phileo, and Agape.
The word Eros (ἔρως) refers to romantic, passionate, or physical love, often associated with desire and attraction. While the term itself is not explicitly used in the New Testament, the concept is biblically acknowledged especially in the Song of Songs, which celebrates marital affection and romantic love between a husband and wife.
Song of Solomon 1:13–17 (ESV) “My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh that lies between my breasts. My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of Engedi… Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved, truly delightful. Our couch is green; the beams of our house are cedar; our rafters are pine.”
Song of Solomon 1:13–17 (ESV)
“My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh that lies between my breasts. My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of Engedi… Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved, truly delightful. Our couch is green; the beams of our house are cedar; our rafters are pine.”
Eros love is good and God-given when expressed within the context of marriage. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in:
Hebrews 13:4 (ESV) “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
Phileo (φιλέω) describes love grounded in friendship, mutual respect, and emotional connection. It reflects the kind of love shared between close friends, family members, or fellow believers. This love is based on shared values or experiences and often reciprocated.
Romans 12:10 (ESV) “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”
Jesus demonstrated Phileo love when He wept over Lazarus’s death:
John 11:36 (ESV) “So the Jews said, ‘See how he loved him!’”
However, Jesus challenges believers to rise above Phileo, because even sinners express this kind of love:
Matthew 5:46–47 (ESV) “For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others?”
This shows that while Phileo love is good, it is not sufficient to fully reflect the heart of God.
Agape (ἀγάπη) is the highest and most divine form of love. It is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, seeking the best for others regardless of their response. This is the love that defines God’s nature and is perfectly revealed in Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 (ESV) “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Jesus calls us to imitate this kind of love:
John 13:34–35 (ESV) “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Agape love is not based on feelings or benefits it is a decision of the will to love even those who hurt, betray, or oppose us:
Romans 5:8 (ESV) “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This kind of love can only be truly lived out by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life:
Romans 5:5 (ESV) “…God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
In 1 Corinthians 13, the Apostle Paul describes what Agape love looks like in action:
1 Corinthians 13:4–8 (ESV) “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.”
This love is not something we passively receive it is something we must actively pursue, especially in difficult situations:
When someone insults us, we respond with grace.
When someone hates us, we pray for them.
When we are wronged, we forgive instead of retaliate.
You cannot grow into Agape love by willpower alone. It is a spiritual fruit that grows as you walk closely with God:
Galatians 5:22 (ESV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…”
We must pray for the grace to love this way, even when it costs us.
1 John 4:12 (ESV) “If we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.”
In God’s eyes, no spiritual gift, title, or ministry compares to love:
1 Corinthians 13:2 (ESV) “…and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”
So let us seek to walk in Agape love the love that reflects the heart of God, draws His presence near, and transforms not just our lives, but the lives of everyone around us.
Be blessed you.
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