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Is It Okay for a Christian to Use Herbal Steam Therapy.

QUESTION: Is it right for a Christian to use herbal steam therapy, especially now during times of respiratory illness? What does the Bible say about it? Does Job 5:3 speak against using herbs or roots in this way?

Job 5:3

 “I have seen the foolish taking root, but suddenly I cursed his dwelling place.”

ANSWER: Herbal steam therapy—is a traditional method of relieving respiratory symptoms, and it functions like any other form of medical treatment. Scripture does not condemn the use of natural remedies. In fact, the Bible affirms that God created plants for human benefit.

Ezekiel 47:12

“Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for medicine.”

Similarly, Revelation 22:2 speaks of “the leaves of the tree [being] for the healing of the nations.” These verses support the idea that God provided natural resources, including herbs, for health and healing.

However, the key issue is intention and association. Using herbs becomes spiritually dangerous when it is tied to superstitious or occult practices—when remedies are mixed with ungodly rituals, invocations, or conditions. For instance, being told to perform rituals like drinking in secret, being naked, or speaking certain words while using the herbs indicates a move from treatment into idolatry or sorcery, which Scripture clearly condemns.

Deuteronomy 18:10–12  warns against practices linked to divination and magic:

“There shall not be found among you… one who practices witchcraft… or a sorcerer… For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord.”

Now, regarding Job 5:3, it is misapplied if used to forbid the use of herbs. The “roots” in that passage are not about medicine but about the false security of the wicked. Eliphaz, the speaker in this chapter, is observing how foolish people may seem to prosper and become established (“take root”), but God’s judgment will ultimately fall on them. The passage is more about moral judgment than physical health or herbal use.

What should Christians understand today?

Using herbal therapy is not sinful in itself—it can be part of God’s provision for health. But the explosion of sickness in the world is also a wake-up call. According to,

Luke 21:11, Jesus said:

“And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven.”

These things are not random—they are signs of the last days and God’s call for repentance.

So, the deeper question is not just about therapy—it’s about the state of your soul.

Have you given your life to Jesus?
If not, you are exposed to more than just physical danger—you are under the judgment of God.

John 3:36 says:

“He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”

Now is the time to repent and receive Christ. We are living in critical times, and your salvation is the most urgent need of all.

Shalom.

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What Does “Wherever There Is a Carcass, There the Vultures Will Gather” Mean?(Luke 17:37)

Question:

Shalom! I would like to understand the meaning of this verse:

Luke 17:37:

“And they answered and said to Him, ‘Where, Lord?’ So He said to them, ‘Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.’”

Answer:
To grasp the meaning of this verse, we need to read it in its full context. Jesus had just finished speaking to His disciples about the coming of the Kingdom and the deceptive times of the last days.

Let’s look at the earlier verses:

Luke 17:22-23:

“Then He said to His disciples, ‘The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. People will tell you, “There He is!” or “Here He is!” Do not go running off after them.’”

Jesus was warning His disciples not to follow every claim about His return. He was preparing them — and us — for a time of spiritual deception, where false messiahs and prophets would try to lead people astray.

This idea is emphasized further in:

Matthew 24:23-26:

“At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There He is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time. So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it.”

Jesus was describing a time when people will be spiritually hungry and vulnerable, chasing after signs and spiritual movements — some of which are not from God. He tells His followers to remain steady, rooted in the truth, and not to run after every new spiritual trend.

That’s when the disciples asked Him, “Where, Lord?”
They were essentially asking, “Where will all this happen? Where should we look for You?”

And Jesus answered with this metaphor:

Luke 17:37  “Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.”

In ancient Jewish culture, this proverb was understood to mean that just as eagles (or vultures) naturally gather around a carcass, God’s people — those with spiritual discernment — will gather where the true presence of Christ is. In other words, the truth does not need marketing. Just as birds of prey are drawn to a carcass without needing directions, true believers will be drawn to genuine spiritual nourishment.

Also, in 1 John 2:27 we’re told:-

“As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things… remain in him.”

This affirms that the Holy Spirit guides the believer to the truth — just like an eagle instinctively knows where its food is.

Application for Today

In these last days, we are warned not to chase every new teaching or miracle movement. Not everything that looks spiritual is from God. Many modern “ministries” market signs and wonders, but may lack sound doctrine or holiness.

As believers, we are called to have eagle vision — to see clearly through deception and pursue the true Word of God. We must not be like spiritual chickens, pecking at whatever is nearby, but like eagles who soar high and see far.

Jesus has already warned us — spiritual deception will increase. But if we remain close to Him, rooted in Scripture, and led by the Holy Spirit, we will always find the right spiritual food for our time.

Hebrews 5:14
“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”

Don’t run after every voice that says, “Here is Christ!” Let God guide you to the right place, the right message, the right teacher, and the right spiritual food. True eagles always find where the nourishment is.

May the Lord bless you and give you spiritual sight to recognize the truth in every season.
Amen.

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Why Did Jesus Tell His Disciples Not to Reveal That He Was the Christ?

Question:

Shalom, beloved brothers and sisters! Why did Jesus forbid His disciples—like Peter—from telling others that He was the Christ, as we read in Matthew 16:20?

Answer:
This is a wise and insightful question that touches on an important part of Christ’s earthly mission. Let’s unpack it step by step, starting with the passage itself.

1. The Passage in Context – Matthew 16:13–20

“When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’”
They replied, ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’
‘But what about you?’ he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’
Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’
Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven…’
Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.” (Matthew 16:13–17, 20

Peter had just made a powerful declaration that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ) and the Son of God. But surprisingly, Jesus tells them not to share this revelation with others—yet.

Why would Jesus command silence about something so important?

2. Why Jesus Forbade Public Proclamation of His Messiah ship

A. His Mission Was Not Yet Complete

Jesus was progressively revealing His identity and mission. At that point in His ministry, He had not yet suffered, died, and resurrected—which were essential elements of His role as the true Messiah.

  • The Jews at the time expected a political or military savior, not a suffering servant (Isaiah 53:3–5).
  • If the disciples had declared Jesus as “the Christ” prematurely, it could have caused political uprisings or misunderstood expectations of who He was.

Jesus Himself explained that He “must suffer many things… and be killed and on the third day be raised to life” (Matthew 16:21). Without this part of the mission fulfilled, the message of who He truly is would have been incomplete and misleading.

B. Jesus Was Avoiding Misguided Fame

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus often tells people not to spread news about His miracles or identity.

  • Matthew 8:4 – “Then Jesus said to him, ‘See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest…’”
  • Mark 3:11–12– “Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, ‘You are the Son of God.’ But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him.”

This wasn’t fear or secrecy. It was strategic timing. His goal was not to attract attention for fame, miracles, or popular acclaim, but to fulfill the Father’s will—leading to the cross.

3. The Pattern of Divine Timing in Jesus’ Ministry

One of the clearest moments comes during the Transfiguration. After Peter, James, and John saw Jesus glorified, He said:

“Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
(Matthew 17:9

This shows the consistent pattern: Revelation must follow resurrection.

4. Fulfillment in the Resurrection and Great Commission

After Jesus rose from the dead, the command to keep silent was lifted. That’s when we see:

  • Matthew 28:18–19 – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”
  • Acts 1:8– “You will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.”

Jesus’ identity could now be proclaimed openly and boldly because the full gospel—the life, death, and resurrection of Christ—had been revealed.

5. A Lesson in God’s Timing

This pattern teaches us an important spiritual principle: not every truth is meant to be revealed immediately. Even in our lives and ministries, God sometimes calls us to wait for the right time before stepping out or speaking up.

Just like Jesus waited until the mission was complete, we must also follow the Spirit’s guidance in revealing and sharing what He entrusts to us.

Jesus told His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ because His mission was not yet complete. He needed to suffer, die, and rise again—only then could the full truth about who He is be shared. After the resurrection, the command changed. Now, we are instructed to boldly proclaim Jesus to all nations.

“What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the rooftops.”
(Matthew 10:27

Let us now fulfill this calling joyfully and without hesitation.

May the Lord bless you as you grow in His Word and truth.

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IT’S GOOD FOR US TO BE HERE

Praise be to the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, now and forever. Today, by God’s grace, we have another opportunity to learn from Him. I invite you to reflect with me on these words of life, especially as we move closer to that great Day—the day when Christ will return in glory to establish His eternal kingdom.

There’s something profound Peter said during a significant event when the Lord Jesus took him, along with James and John, up a high mountain. If we read this passage carefully, we will see how it reveals the nature of Christ’s glory, His mission, and how we should live on our journey of salvation. Let’s read the account briefly, and then I believe the Lord has something important to teach us today.

Luke 9:28-36 (NIV)
28 About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray.
29 As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.
30 Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus.
31 They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem.
32 Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
33 As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what he was saying.)
34 While he was speaking, a cloud appeared and covered them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud.
35 A voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”
36 When the voice had spoken, they found that Jesus was alone. The disciples kept this to themselves and did not tell anyone at that time what they had seen.

Theological Insight:

The Transfiguration of Jesus: The event on the mountain, known as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9; Mark 9:2-8), reveals Jesus in His divine glory. This moment highlights the fact that, while He walked among humanity in humility, He is the eternal Son of God. As described

in John 1:14,

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

  1. Moses and Elijah: Moses and Elijah’s appearance is not accidental. Moses represents the Law (as the giver of the Ten Commandments) and Elijah represents the Prophets. Together, they symbolize the entirety of the Old Testament Scriptures that point to Christ. Their conversation with Jesus, as noted in Luke 9:31, is about His “departure,” referring to His impending death, resurrection, and ascension. This fulfills what Jesus said in Luke 24:44, that everything written about Him in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.

The Glory of Christ Revealed: When Jesus’ face changed and His clothes became dazzling white, it was a visible manifestation of His divine nature. This moment was a glimpse of the glorified Christ, reminding the disciples (and us) that Jesus is not just a teacher or prophet but the Son of God, as confirmed by the voice from the cloud

in Luke 9:35:

“This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” This voice echoes the affirmation of Jesus’ divinity heard during His baptism in

 Matthew 3:17: “

This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

  1. Peter’s Response: Peter’s suggestion to build three shelters (or tabernacles) is significant. It was common during Jewish festivals, especially during the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:42), to build shelters to remember God’s provision during Israel’s wilderness journey. While Peter’s words came from a place of reverence, he did not fully understand the weight of the moment. His response contrasts with the divine intervention that follows: God’s direct affirmation of Jesus as His Son, and His command to listen to Him (Luke 9:35).

  2. The Cloud and the Voice of God: The cloud that enveloped them and the voice from within it represent the manifest presence of God, similar to how God appeared in a cloud to Moses and the Israelites (Exodus 16:10, 19:9). The voice from the cloud is not only a confirmation of Jesus’ identity but also a call to obedience: “Listen to him.” This parallels the instruction given in Deuteronomy 18:15, where God promises to raise up a prophet like Moses, and the people must listen to Him.

  3. The Silence and Revelation: After the voice from the cloud, the disciples were left in awe, and they “kept this to themselves” (Luke 9:36). This silence echoes the mystery of God’s revelation. Jesus did not want His full glory to be widely known at that time, as His mission was not yet complete. He came not to be glorified in the eyes of men, but to suffer and die for the salvation of the world. This moment was a glimpse into the future glory, which would be fully revealed after His resurrection.

This passage teaches us several crucial things:

Christ’s Divine Nature: Jesus is not just a historical figure or moral teacher; He is the eternal Son of God. The Transfiguration confirms His divine glory and calls us to worship Him as the sovereign Lord. As Colossians 1:15-17 affirms, “

The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”

Our Response: Like Peter, we may sometimes respond out of ignorance or misunderstanding, but God’s grace is patient with us. Our call is to listen to Jesus, obey His word, and trust in His plan.

John 10:27 reminds us,

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

  • The Presence of God: Just as the cloud represented God’s presence with Moses and Israel, it reminds us that God is present with us today, guiding and instructing us through His Word and through the Holy Spirit. We are called to dwell in His presence and to walk by faith, trusting that He will reveal His glory in His perfect time.

  • The Call to Active Participation: Peter’s desire to “be there” and build shelters was well-meaning but misguided. It shows our tendency to want to “help” God in ways that we think are best. However, what God truly desires from us is a humble, listening heart. The command to “listen to Him” is not just an invitation to hear, but to obey and follow. In our daily lives, we are called not just to observe Christ but to follow Him, no matter the cost. Luke 9:23 calls us to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus.

Conclusion:
This passage from Luke invites us to reflect on the glory of Christ and the response He demands from His followers. Just as Peter, James, and John were given a glimpse of Jesus’ divine nature, we, too, are called to listen to Him and recognize His sovereignty in our lives. Let’s remember that the Gospel is not just a message we observe, but one we live out through obedience and trust in God’s plan. Like Peter, we may not always understand, but our faith in Christ will lead us to share in His glory—just as it did for those three disciples.

Shalom.

Feel free to share these teachings, and for prayers, service schedules, counseling, or any inquiries, please contact:
+255693036618 or +255789001312.

 
 

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What is a “Anvil”?

To understand this, let’s look at Isaiah 41:7

“So the craftsman encouraged the goldsmith; He who smooths with the hammer inspired him who strikes the anvil, saying, ‘It is ready for the soldering’; Then he fastened it with pegs, that it might not totter.”

The term anvil—used by metalworkers to hammer and shape metals such as gold, silver, or bronze. After melting the metal in fire to soften it, artisans would place it on the anvil and pound it into the desired form. This was an essential step in crafting images or idols.

In Isaiah 41, this process is described in the context of idol-making. The craftsman carves a wooden image, the goldsmith overlays it with metal, and then another strikes the anvil to give it its final form.

The Folly of Idolatry

This verse is part of a larger prophetic critique of idolatry. God, through the prophet Isaiah, exposes the vain efforts of people making lifeless idols—objects that cannot speak, see, hear, save, or protect. Despite all the effort and cooperation between workers, the final product is something that must be nailed down so it won’t fall over (Isaiah 41:7). That in itself shows its powerlessness.

This theme is repeated throughout Isaiah:

“The workman molds an image, The goldsmith over spreads it with gold, And the silversmith casts silver chains.”
— Isaiah 40:19 

Yet these images, however refined, cannot respond, move, or help—they are utterly powerless.

God’s Contrast: Real Help Comes from Him

Immediately after describing the idol-makers, God turns to speak to His people, Israel, with words of comfort and assurance. He reminds them that He alone is their Creator, Redeemer, and Protector:

“But you, Israel, are My servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, The descendants of Abraham My friend. You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, And called from its farthest regions… Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.”
— Isaiah 41:8–10

God makes it clear: unlike idols, He is living, present, and faithful to His people. He promises to give them strength, uphold them, and defend them.

God’s call is for His people to turn away from man-made, powerless substitutes and instead place their full trust in Him alone.

“I am the LORD, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images.”
— Isaiah 42:8

Our Response Today

Just as God challenged Israel to abandon idols, He is calling us today to examine our hearts. Are there “Anvil moments” in our lives—places where we invest time, money, or effort into things that ultimately cannot save or satisfy?

The promise is this: If we let go of spiritual and physical idolatry, and turn to the living God, He will be with us, strengthen us, and uphold us with His righteous right hand.

“Fear not… I will help you,” says the LORD and your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
— Isaiah 41:14

May the Lord bless you as you put your trust in Him .

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Is it a sin for a born-again Christian to shave his beard?

QUESTION:

Is it a sin for a born-again Christian to shave his beard?

REFERENCE VERSE:

Leviticus 19:26-29 
“Do not eat any meat with the blood still in it. Do not practice divination or seek omens.

Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.
Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.”

ANSWER:

This passage was part of God’s law to the Israelites in the Old Testament. The instruction not to trim the sides of the head or beard wasn’t arbitrary—it had cultural and spiritual significance. In ancient times, surrounding nations like the Egyptians, Moabites, and other pagan tribes practiced specific shaving patterns as acts of worship to their gods or as part of occult rituals (see Isaiah 15:2 and Jeremiah 48:37).

For example, some would shave the entire head and leave a circular patch on top or shape their beards in particular ways to express devotion to idols. These grooming habits were deeply tied to religious identity, not just style.

To separate His people from these practices, God commanded the Israelites not to imitate those customs. Holiness meant being visibly different. God’s people were to reflect His character and not the customs of idol worshippers.

This is the key theological principle: God calls His people to be set apart—distinct in both character and conduct. As seen in Leviticus 20:26

“You are to be holy to me because I, the Lord, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.”

What does this mean for Christians today?

We are no longer under the Mosaic Law (see Romans 6:14, Galatians 3:24–25), but the principle of separation from worldly practices still applies. As Christians, our goal is not legalistic conformity but spiritual distinctiveness. In the New Testament, Paul appeals to believers in Romans 12:1–2 

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

So, while shaving a beard itself is not a sin, the motive and style may matter. If a particular haircut or beard style is adopted just to follow secular celebrities or trends with roots in rebellion, immorality, or idolatry—even unknowingly—it may contradict the call to holiness.

For example, if a Christian intentionally shapes his beard to mimic an artist known for promoting ungodliness or uses fashion to imitate worldly rebellion, it may cause others to question his spiritual message. Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 10:31

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Our Witness Matters

We may not always realize it, but our appearance can send a message. Paul reminds the church in 2 Corinthians 3:2 

“You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone.”

That means people read our lives—including how we dress, speak, and present ourselves—as a testimony. So, ask yourself:

  • What message does my appearance send?
  • Is it pointing people toward Christ or blending in with worldly culture?

Even styles that seem neutral (like a beard with a goat-like shape) can unintentionally carry meanings. And even if they don’t anymore, we must consider how they affect our witness.

It’s not about legalism, but about spiritual awareness and purpose. Shaving your beard or cutting your hair is not a sin in itself. However, as believers, we are called to be intentional about how we live—including our appearance.

1 Peter 1:14-16 

“As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

So if a certain style ties you to worldly culture or distracts from your Christian identity, it may be wise to let it go—not because of the law, but out of love for Christ and a desire to honor Him with every part of your life.

May the Lord bless you and guide you in living a life that reflects His holiness.

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Understanding the Prayer: “Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath

To understand the meaning of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:20, we need to examine the same prophecy in three different Gospels to get a full understanding. We’ll begin with Matthew 24:15-22, where Jesus foretells the fall of Jerusalem:

Matthew 24:15-22:
“Therefore, when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, (whoever reads, let him understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.”

Jesus emphasizes the severity of the coming tribulation, describing it as a time of unparalleled suffering. In the context of God’s judgment, this serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding Christ’s warnings and staying faithful to God.

In Luke 19:41-44, we find a similar warning, where Jesus weeps over Jerusalem:

Luke 19:41-44:

“Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, saying, ‘If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.’

Luke 21:20-24:

“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her. For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.”

Why Winter or the Sabbath?

In Matthew 24:20, Jesus urges His followers to pray that their flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. This part of the passage reveals the difficulties the people would face if they tried to flee Jerusalem during certain times.

Matthew 24:20:
“And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath.”

Why Winter?

During winter in Jerusalem, temperatures can be very low, and there are even occasional freezes. Traveling in such harsh conditions would be incredibly difficult, particularly for those fleeing from an invading army. Theologians often point out that Jesus was acknowledging the natural difficulties that would arise in fleeing the city, emphasizing that they should pray for favorable conditions for their escape.

Why the Sabbath?

On the Sabbath, Jewish law prohibited long journeys or work (Exodus 16:29). The “Sabbath day’s journey” was limited to just a few hundred meters (Acts 1:12). This restriction would make it almost impossible for people to escape Jerusalem on the Sabbath if it were surrounded by armies. In light of this, Jesus’ warning was practical: they needed to pray that these catastrophic events would not occur on the Sabbath because it would severely limit their ability to flee and survive.

Acts 1:12:

“Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey.”

The Prophecy Fulfilled

Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Roman army, under General Titus, surrounded and destroyed Jerusalem. The people, particularly the Christians, who heeded Jesus’ warning and fled the city survived. Those who stayed behind, however, were caught in the destruction. This event serves as a reminder that Jesus’ words are always true and must be taken seriously.

A Warning for the Future

This event is also a picture of the greater tribulation that will occur in the future. In the Book of Revelation, we read about the coming Great Tribulation, a time of unparalleled suffering that will begin suddenly, just like the siege of Jerusalem.

Revelation 7:14 :

“And I said to him, ‘Sir, you know.’ So he said to me, ‘These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.’”

After the rapture of the Church, those who are left behind will face persecution and suffering unlike anything the world has seen before. Theologically, this passage teaches the inevitability of judgment for those who reject Christ, but it also offers hope for those who remain faithful and endure.

Mark 13:31:

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”

Have you received Christ?

The rapture will happen at an unexpected time, and Jesus’ warnings will come to pass. If you are not sure that you are ready for the rapture, it is important to make your life right with God today. Jesus’ words will be fulfilled, and His offer of salvation is available to all who accept Him.

God bless you.

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What Does It Mean to Be Created in the Image and Likeness of God?

Introduction:

The statement that human beings were created “in the image and likeness of God” is one of the most profound truths in Scripture. It sets humans apart from the rest of creation and defines our identity, purpose, and potential. But what exactly does this mean? To understand this, we need to look at both Scripture and sound theology.

1. Biblical Foundation:

Genesis 1:26–27 :

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion…’
So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

2. The Image of God – Our Inner Being (Imago Dei)

Definition:
Imago Dei refers to the unique spiritual, moral, intellectual, and relational nature that reflects aspects of God’s character.

Core attributes include:

  • Moral reasoning and conscience (Romans 2:14–15)
  • Love and compassion (1 John 4:7–8)
  • Creativity and dominion (Genesis 2:15)
  • Free will and responsibility (Deuteronomy 30:19)
  • Desire for relationship—with God and others (Genesis 2:18; Matthew 22:37–39)

Example from Scripture:
Ephesians 4:24 :

“And that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.”

This shows that righteousness and holiness are aspects of God’s image that can be restored through spiritual rebirth.

3. The Likeness of God – Our Outer Form

While God is Spirit (John 4:24), the likeness aspect is often understood to refer to the fact that God chose to give humans a form that mirrors His own divine presence in some way.

Theophanies (God appearing in human-like form) in the Old Testament (e.g., Genesis 18:1–3, Exodus 33:11) suggest that God’s heavenly form may have human-like qualities—eyes, hands, voice, etc.

Philippians 2:6–7:

“[Jesus], being in the form of God… took the form of a bondservant, and came in the likeness of men.”

This implies a divine form before incarnation that shares resemblance with humanity, reinforcing the concept of likeness.

4. We Were Created to Reflect God’s Character

Matthew 5:48 :

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

This is not a call to sinless perfection, but to spiritual maturity and godliness—becoming like God in character. God commands this because He knows it’s possible through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 8:29:

“For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…”

The image of God is fully revealed in Christ, and as believers, we are being shaped to become like Him.

5. How the Image Was Affected by Sin – and How It Is Restored

After the Fall (Genesis 3), humanity’s ability to reflect God’s image was corrupted—not destroyed. We still have the image, but it is marred.

Colossians 3:10:

“And have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 :

“But we all… are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory…”

This transformation happens through faith in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

6. Animals and Creation Do Not Share This Image

Only humans were created in God’s image. Animals, while part of God’s good creation, do not bear moral responsibility or spiritual capacity.

Psalm 8:5–6:

“You have made him [man] a little lower than the angels… You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands.”

This dominion is part of our God-given role that reflects His own sovereign rule.

7. Living Out the Image of God

We reflect God’s image not by outward claims but by inward transformation that leads to righteous living.

Practical Example:

Before salvation, one may harbor hatred; but when filled with the Holy Spirit, love replaces hatred, and we begin to hate sin instead—just like God does.

Galatians 5:22–23:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”

These fruits are the living expression of God’s image in us.

Being made in God’s image and likeness means we were designed to reflect His character, steward His creation, and enjoy a relationship with Him. This is our highest calling. Though sin distorted that image, Christ came to restore it. Through Him, and by the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to live as true image-bearers.

May the Lord continue to transform us into His likeness as we walk with Him daily.

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