Title April 2021

What is a “Gidamu” and Why Did John the Baptist Say He Was Not Worthy to Untie the Sandals of Jesus?

A “gidamu” refers to the straps or cords used to fasten ancient sandals. Unlike modern shoes, which typically allow the foot to simply slide in, ancient sandals were held in place with cords that were wrapped around the foot and ankle. These straps, also known as sandal thongs or laces, were what made the sandals wearable and secure.

You can find the term “gidamu” in the following Bible passages:

  • Mark 1:7: “And he preached, saying, ‘After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie.'”

  • Luke 3:16: “John answered them all, saying, ‘I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.'”

  • Matthew 3:11: “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

Now, let’s explore why John the Baptist said he was unworthy to untie the sandals of Jesus.

Understanding the Context of “Gidamu”

In ancient times, sandals were held onto the feet by straps or cords, which were considered an essential part of footwear. These straps were often removed and adjusted by servants or slaves. The task of untying or loosening the sandals was one of the most menial and lowly jobs that a servant could do, particularly a servant of a non-Jewish background. Jews did not generally perform such tasks, as they were considered degrading.

Interestingly, the job of untying sandals was specifically left to Gentile slaves (non-Jews) in Jewish society. It was a job of extreme humility, considered below the dignity of Jewish servants. This task was not just menial but also symbolized a form of subjugation and dishonor, as it involved dealing with something that touched the dirt of the ground.

John’s Statement of Humility

When John the Baptist declared that he was unworthy to untie the sandals of Jesus, he was making a profound statement about the supremacy and holiness of Jesus. By this declaration, John was acknowledging that even the most humble task, which was considered beneath any Jewish servant, was something he could not do for Jesus. He was saying that Jesus’ worth was far beyond anything that John could comprehend or even perform in terms of service.

This expression reveals John’s deep humility and reverence for Jesus. It is an acknowledgment that Jesus is the “mightier one” who surpasses all in power and glory. John recognized that, compared to Jesus, even the most menial service was too exalted for him. Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God, and John was but His servant, unworthy of even the lowest act of service.

Biblical Significance of John’s Humility

John’s words, “I am not worthy to untie the strap of His sandals,” reflect the profound humility he had in recognizing the divine nature of Jesus. In Matthew 11:11, Jesus speaks highly of John the Baptist, stating, “Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist.” This is remarkable because, despite his significant role in preparing the way for Jesus, John himself saw his role as small in comparison to the greatness of the one he was preparing the way for.

John’s humility also reflects a core biblical truth: humility before God is paramount. In James 4:10, we are told, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” John exemplified this by recognizing that his calling was not to elevate himself but to humbly prepare the way for Jesus.

Additionally, John’s statement has theological significance in terms of atonement and sacrifice. Jesus’ coming to baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (as John mentions in Luke 3:16) points to the redemptive work of Christ, which would bring about the cleansing of sin and the empowering of believers. By humbling himself, John showed his understanding of the holiness of the one who was to come, recognizing that no one, not even the greatest prophet, was worthy of the full glory of the Messiah.

Application to Our Lives

John the Baptist challenges us to think about our own humility in relation to Jesus. Are we willing to serve, no matter how humble the task? Even the simplest acts of service in the Kingdom of God—such as cleaning the church, helping a neighbor, or serving others in need—are acts that bring honor to God when done with a humble heart.

John’s humility also encourages us to honor and value the greatness of Jesus. When we understand the majesty and holiness of Jesus Christ, our attitude toward serving Him and others should reflect that awe and reverence. In John 13:14-15, Jesus Himself washed His disciples’ feet, showing that even the Son of God humbled Himself to serve. Jesus called us to follow His example, demonstrating that true greatness in the Kingdom of God comes through service and humility.

In conclusion, John the Baptist’s recognition that he was unworthy to untie the sandals of Jesus not only demonstrates his deep reverence for Jesus but also serves as a model of humility that we are all called to imitate. Just as John acknowledged the supreme greatness of Jesus, we too should humble ourselves before Him, serving God and others with a heart full of reverence and gratitude.

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What is the meaning of “When you give to the poor, let not your right hand know what your left hand is doing”? (Matthew 6:3-4)

Matthew 6:1-4 (NKJV)
1 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,
4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

Understanding the Passage:

Jesus is teaching that acts of kindness and charity should not be performed for the sake of recognition or praise from others. The focus should be on pleasing God rather than seeking the approval of people. The phrase “let not your right hand know what your left hand is doing” emphasizes the idea that our charitable actions should be done with such discretion and humility that even we, the ones performing the act, don’t keep track of it or boast about it.

In the context of the time, religious leaders and others would often make a show of their good deeds, using them to gain admiration from the public. Jesus contrasts this with a life of humble obedience, where giving and helping others is done in secret, known only to God. The reward for such actions comes from God alone, and not from human praise.

Theological Insights:

  1. The Motive of the Heart: This passage underscores the importance of the inner motive behind the action. It is not enough to simply do good deeds; our hearts must be right. Jesus wants us to act out of genuine love and compassion, not out of a desire for human recognition. In 1 Corinthians 13:3, Paul writes, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” Our actions should flow from a heart that truly seeks to honor God, not to elevate ourselves.

  2. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:10-14): Jesus often contrasted the attitudes of those who sought recognition for their piety with those who humbly acknowledged their need for God. In Luke 18:10-14, Jesus tells the story of a Pharisee and a tax collector who both went to pray. The Pharisee boasted about his righteousness, while the tax collector humbled himself, acknowledging his sin. Jesus concluded, “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God.”

  3. The Danger of Self-Righteousness: In modern times, many people still fall into the trap of publicizing their good deeds. While giving is a good thing, doing it with a sense of pride or to be seen by others diminishes the reward. Matthew 6:2 warns that those who give for the applause of men have already received their reward. Galatians 6:7 reminds us that “a man reaps what he sows,” emphasizing that true rewards come from God, not from human recognition.

  4. God Rewards the Secret Acts: Jesus promises that when we give in secret, God who sees what is done in secret will reward us openly. This isn’t just about financial reward; it can be a deeper sense of peace, fulfillment, and eternal blessings. Hebrews 11:6 affirms, “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Practical Application:

  • Giving with Humility: Whether it’s money, time, or resources, our giving should be done with humility, without seeking to boast or draw attention. We are reminded in Matthew 6:3-4 to keep our charity private.

  • Seek God’s Approval: As believers, we should focus on doing things for the glory of God, not for praise from others. This is consistent with Colossians 3:23-24, where Paul writes, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”

  • Forget Your Deeds After Doing Them: This teaching is not just about doing good deeds but about not clinging to them or using them as a measure of our righteousness. We are encouraged to forget our own deeds once they are done, as Luke 17:10 says, “So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”

Conclusion:

The message of Matthew 6:1-4 is clear: our good deeds should be performed quietly and humbly, without expecting accolades from others. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, and He will reward us in ways far greater than any recognition from people could offer. True reward comes not from the applause of the crowd but from the approval of God, and it is that approval which holds eternal significant.

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Who is the wife of your youth according to the bible?

In the Bible, the phrase “wife of your youth” refers to the wife whom you married when you were young, someone you have been with for many years. This concept emphasizes the covenant of marriage, which is intended to be permanent. According to biblical teachings, once you are married, you are expected to remain committed to that spouse for life.

The Bible specifically addresses this idea in several passages:

  1. Malachi 2:14 – “But you say, ‘Why does he not?’ Because the LORD was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.”

  2. Proverbs 5:18 – “Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.”

These verses emphasize the importance of faithfulness to the wife of your youth, the one with whom you entered into a covenant of marriage. This is a lifelong commitment, and abandoning that spouse for another is considered a grave sin.

Theological Understanding:

In the biblical context, “wife of your youth” is not referring to a girlfriend or boyfriend, as we understand those terms in modern relationships. The Bible condemns premarital relationships and sexual relationships outside the bond of marriage. Any romantic relationship should be within the bounds of marriage, as instructed in Hebrews 13:4 – “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”

The teaching is clear: if you marry someone as a young person, that person remains your spouse throughout your life. Even if the marriage becomes difficult or less emotionally fulfilling, you are still bound by the covenant you made before God. Abandoning your spouse, the one you married in your youth, and seeking another partner is considered sinful, as it leads to adultery (Matthew 19:9).

Conclusion:

The “wife of your youth” refers to the wife you marry and commit to in a lifelong covenant. It is not a casual term for a girlfriend or a fleeting romantic relationship. According to the Bible, marriage is sacred and intended to last for life. Premarital relationships and breaking the marriage covenant are condemned. This underscores the importance of commitment, loyalty, and faithfulness in marriage, which is central to God’s design for human relationshipsersation helpful so far?

 
 
 
 
 

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WHAT GOOD IS IT TO GAIN THE WORLD AND LOSE YOUR SOUL?

Mark 8:34-37 (NIV)

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.
What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”

This passage presents one of the most sobering truths from the lips of Jesus: eternal life is of greater value than anything the world can offer. The Greek word for “soul” (ψυχή – psyche) can also mean “life”—referring not only to physical life but to the eternal essence of who we are. Jesus is warning us that it is possible to be materially successful and spiritually bankrupt.

1. Wealth Cannot Save the Soul

In today’s world, success is often measured by possessions—houses, cars, money, status. But Jesus asks: What will it profit you if you gain it all, but lose your soul? No amount of wealth can purchase eternal life.

Psalm 49:7-8 (NIV)

“No one can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for them—the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough.”

Only Christ can redeem a soul—not gold, not influence, not good deeds. Wealth has its place, but when it becomes our master, it endangers our eternity.

2. The Trap of Riches

Jesus warned specifically about the spiritual dangers of riches:

Mark 10:23-25 (NIV)

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!
It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Key theological insight: The issue is not money itself, but reliance on wealth. Jesus is not condemning wealth, but He warns that when it becomes our source of identity and security, it replaces our dependence on God. The rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-22) was unwilling to surrender his wealth because it had become his god.

3. Jesus Calls Us to Simplicity and Surrender

When Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, He is calling for full surrender. The call is radical: follow Him even if it means losing worldly status or possessions.

Matthew 6:24 (NIV)

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

Jesus didn’t tell everyone to sell everything—but to the man who had made wealth his idol, Jesus said:

Mark 10:21 (NIV)

“Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

Theological truth: God’s kingdom demands our first allegiance. When we are too busy accumulating or protecting wealth, we have little time or spiritual space for God.

4. A Warning Against Worldly Distraction

Jesus cautions us against becoming spiritually dull because of life’s distractions:

Luke 21:34 (NIV)

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.”

The enemy of your soul doesn’t need to tempt you with evil if he can keep you distracted. Even good things—jobs, business, family—can crowd out spiritual focus.

Proverbs 23:4 (NIV)

“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.”

5. A Simple, Eternal Perspective

There is a better way. Rather than striving endlessly for temporary things, we can live simply, trust God daily, and pursue eternal treasures.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.
But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires…
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

True riches are spiritual—found in Christ alone.

6. Make the Right Choice Today

You may have heard messages promising wealth in the name of faith. But true discipleship is not about “getting rich”—it’s about getting right with God.

Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

If you haven’t yet given your life to Jesus, now is the time. We are living in the last days, and judgment is coming upon all who reject Christ.

John 3:16 (NIV)

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

FINAL THOUGHT

Better to have little in this world and be rich in spirit, than to have everything and miss eternity. Better to eat simply and have time with God, than to feast daily and lose your soul.

So ask yourself honestly: What will it profit you to gain the whole world and yet lose your soul?

Maranatha—The Lord is coming soon.

Please share this message with someone who needs to hear the truth.

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At what time was Jesus crucified—was it the third hour (9 a.m.) as stated in the Gospel of Mark, or the sixth hour (noon) as mentioned in the Gospel of John?

This question often arises due to an apparent time discrepancy between Mark and John regarding the crucifixion of Jesus. Let us look closely at the relevant passages:

Mark 15:24–25 (ESV)

“And they crucified him and divided his garments among them, casting lots for them, to decide what each should take. And it was the third hour when they crucified him.”

According to Mark, Jesus was crucified at the third hour, which corresponds to 9:00 a.m. using the Jewish method of timekeeping, where the day begins at sunrise (approximately 6:00 a.m.).

John 19:14 (ESV)

“Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, ‘Behold your King!’”

John seems to indicate that Jesus was still on trial before Pilate at about the sixth hour, which appears to contradict Mark’s account. However, a closer analysis shows that this is not a contradiction but a matter of differing timekeeping systems.

Understanding the Timekeeping Systems

  • Jewish Time (used by Mark):
    The day begins at sunrise (around 6:00 a.m.).

    • 1st hour = 7:00 a.m.

    • 3rd hour = 9:00 a.m.

    • 6th hour = 12:00 noon

    • 9th hour = 3:00 p.m.

  • Roman Time (likely used by John):
    The day begins at midnight, like our modern system.

    • 6th hour = 6:00 a.m.

    • 9th hour = 9:00 a.m.

    • 12th hour = 12:00 noon

John’s Gospel was likely written later and intended for a broader Greco-Roman audience. Therefore, John appears to use Roman time, placing Jesus’ appearance before Pilate around 6:00 a.m., after a night of trials and interrogation.

This timing aligns well with Mark’s account:

  • By 9:00 a.m. (the third hour), as Mark states, Jesus was already on the cross.

  • Before that, Jesus had been presented before Pilate at around 6:00 a.m., as John notes.

Luke 23:44–46 (ESV) – The Death of Jesus

“It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun’s light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!’ And having said this he breathed his last.”

This passage from Luke confirms:

  • From noon (sixth hour) to 3:00 p.m. (ninth hour), darkness covered the land.

  • Jesus died around 3:00 p.m., fulfilling prophetic symbolism (see Amos 8:9–10, Isaiah 53).

Conclusion: No Contradiction—Only Different Clocks

When we recognize the use of different timekeeping systems:

  • John’s sixth hour (Roman time) = 6:00 a.m. — Jesus is still before Pilate.

  • Mark’s third hour (Jewish time) = 9:00 a.m. — Jesus is crucified.

The Gospels are consistent when understood in their historical and cultural context. Jesus was crucified around 9:00 a.m., darkness fell at noon, and He died at 3:00 p.m.

Theological Significance

  • Jesus’ crucifixion at Passover fulfills the imagery of the Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7, Exodus 12).

  • The darkness and tearing of the temple veil symbolize judgment and access to God through Christ (Hebrews 10:19–20).

  • The specific timing fulfills God’s sovereign plan and aligns with Messianic prophecy, such as Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53.

Final Challenge:
Have you received Jesus as Lord and Savior? The Bible declares that He is coming again (Revelation 22:12), and He will return for a people who are born again and walking in holiness (John 3:3, Hebrews 12:14). Salvation is a free gift (Ephesians 2:8–9), but it must be received by faith and repentance.

Will you be among the few who will meet Him in the clouds (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)? The choice is yours—eternal life or eternal separation. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Maranatha — the Lord is coming!

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NOT ONE OF HIS BONES SHALL BE BROKEN

Greetings to you in the name above all names, our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome once again as we delve into the words of life.

At the time when our Lord Jesus was being crucified, as the sun was about to set and those who had been crucified were still alive, the Jews went to ask Pilate to have their legs broken to hasten their deaths. It should be remembered that, according to Jewish law, it was considered defiling to leave a criminal’s body on the cross until the evening of the Sabbath.

This is explained in the Torah: Deuteronomy 21:22-23 (NIV) says:

“If someone is guilty of a capital offense and is put to death and their body is exposed on a pole, you must not leave the body hanging overnight. Be sure to bury it that same day, because anyone who is hung on a pole is under God’s curse.”

The Jewish leaders wanted to avoid the defilement of leaving bodies on the cross overnight, especially during the Sabbath, which was a holy day. Thus, they asked Pilate to break their legs to hasten their deaths.

Theological Insight:
In the ancient world, crucifixion was a slow and agonizing form of execution, where the condemned person could linger for hours or even days, slowly dying from asphyxiation or blood loss. The breaking of the legs, by preventing the victim from pushing up to breathe, accelerated death.

However, if it weren’t for their law, Roman execution usually allowed someone to stay on the cross until they died of their own accord. This could take days, and was deliberately torturous, ensuring that the person died a slow, agonizing death. The bodies would not be removed until vultures or scavengers came to feed on the remains.

John 19:31-36 (NIV):

31 Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down.
32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other.
33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs.
34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.
35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe.
36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.”

THEOLOGICAL INSIGHT:

In the New Testament, Jesus’ body fulfills the ancient foreshadowing in the Passover lamb’s sacrifice. The unbroken bones of Jesus directly correlate with the instructions God gave to the Israelites when preparing the Passover lamb.

SO WHY WERE HIS BONES NOT BROKEN? WHAT WAS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS IN SCRIPTURE?

There are two main theological reasons:

1. To confirm that Christ is truly our Passover Lamb.
When the Israelites were preparing to leave Egypt, God gave them specific instructions about the Passover lamb. The lamb had to be without defect, and not a bone of it was to be broken. This was a prophetic picture pointing to the perfect, sinless sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Exodus 12:45-46 (NIV):

“A temporary resident or a hired worker may not eat it.
It must be eaten inside the house; take none of the meat outside the house. Do not break any of the bones.“

This requirement was prophetic, symbolizing that the Messiah, the true Lamb of God, would be without blemish and His body would be untouched, fulfilling the law of the Passover.

John 1:29 (NIV):

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'”

The unbroken bones of Jesus therefore fulfill the Passover lamb’s prophecy, reinforcing that Jesus is our true Passover Lamb, who takes away the sins of the world.

2. To demonstrate that the body of Christ is not broken.
Despite enduring the excruciating torture of the cross—being mocked, whipped, and nailed—His body remained intact. This shows the spiritual truth that the body of Christ, though the Church undergoes suffering, remains whole and unbroken.

Ephesians 5:30 (NIV):

“For we are members of his body.”

This teaching stresses the unity of the body of Christ. Just as Jesus’ physical body was preserved, so too should the spiritual body of Christ—the Church—remain united. The Church is called to be a unified body, and each member must remain connected to Christ and to one another, regardless of the trials faced.

Even though believers may go through hardships, we are to stay united in love, just as Christ’s body remained whole through His suffering. As Scripture teaches, Christ’s body is not broken, and neither should the body of His Church be broken by division.

John 17:22 (NIV):

“I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one.”

This passage underscores the importance of unity within the Church. Jesus prayed that His followers would be one, just as He and the Father are one. Dividing the body of Christ goes directly against this divine principle.

THEOLOGICAL INSIGHT:

Jesus’ prayer for unity in the body of believers is central to the life of the Church. Disunity is a direct contradiction to the nature of God, who Himself is unified in the Trinity. When the Church is divided, it disrupts the witness of Christ in the world.

Shalom.

Please share this good news with others.

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What does Jesus mean by “the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God” ?(John 16:2)

This statement by Jesus is a prophetic warning to His disciples and all believers that a time would come when persecution—even murder—would be carried out against Christians by people who genuinely believe they are doing God’s will. This speaks to religiously motivated persecution, where attackers are convinced their actions are acts of worship or obedience to God.

In John 16:1–2 (ESV), Jesus says:

“I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.”

Jesus foresaw a future where hostility toward true followers of Christ would come not only from political or pagan sources but from within the religious community itself. This kind of persecution is especially dangerous because it is wrapped in the cloak of religious zeal and backed by misinterpretations of Scripture.

1. Biblical Examples of This Persecution

a) Jesus Himself

Jesus was crucified primarily at the instigation of the religious leaders—the chief priests, scribes, and Pharisees—who believed He was violating the Law of Moses. For example, they accused Him of breaking the Sabbath by healing (John 5:16-18) and of blasphemy for claiming equality with God (John 10:33).

They justified His death using Scriptures like Exodus 31:15 (ESV):

“Six days shall work be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to the LORD. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall be put to death.”

So, when Jesus healed on the Sabbath, they interpreted it as breaking the law deserving of death. In their view, killing Jesus was obedience to God’s command, though in reality, they were opposing God’s own Son.

b) Stephen the Martyr

Stephen, one of the early church’s leaders, was stoned to death by religious Jews who falsely accused him of blasphemy.

Acts 6:13–14 (ESV) says:

“They set up false witnesses who said, ‘This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law, for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us.’”

The law in Leviticus 24:16 (ESV) declared:

“Whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death. All the congregation shall stone him.”

Those who killed Stephen believed they were upholding God’s law. Again, in their minds, his execution was a religious duty.

c) The Apostle Paul’s Past

Before his conversion, Paul (then Saul) was a prime example of this mindset:

“I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth.” – Acts 26:9 (ESV)

He persecuted Christians, even unto death, thinking he was honoring God (Philippians 3:6).

2. Religious Persecution Continues Today

Jesus’ warning did not apply only to the early church. This kind of persecution continues throughout history and into the present day. Often, opposition against true believers still comes from religious institutions or individuals who believe they are acting on behalf of God.

For example:

  • A preacher shares the Gospel in public, and the first to report him might be another church leader claiming he lacks a permit—justifying it using Romans 13:1, which speaks about obeying governing authorities.

  • Someone might feel justified in silencing true Gospel preaching by appealing to order, tradition, or law, believing they’re “protecting God’s reputation.”

What they may not realize is that the Holy Spirit might be using that very moment to convict a soul. Resisting such Gospel work is not service to God but resistance against Him.

3. Final Encouragement and Caution

Jesus said:

“And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household.” – Matthew 10:36 (ESV)

Persecution doesn’t always come from far away—it often starts close to home, including within the religious community. This was true for Jesus, His apostles, and it remains true for Christians today.

Therefore, believers are urged to stay vigilant and discerning, not assuming that all religious action is godly. We must evaluate all things through the lens of Scripture, led by the Holy Spirit.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father…” – Matthew 7:21 (ESV)

Conclusion

Jesus’ prophecy in John 16:2 is a sobering reminder that:

  • Not all persecution comes from obvious enemies—some come from those claiming to serve God.

  • Religious zeal without truth leads to destruction.

  • True followers of Christ must be ready to suffer, sometimes even at the hands of the religious, just as Christ did.

May God give us grace to discern and the courage to stand firm, even when opposed by those who believe they are doing right.

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Do Not Live by Dreams – Live by the Word of God

Introduction
In a world full of spiritual confusion and noise, many believers are eager to hear God’s voice. Unfortunately, in that search, some have come to rely heavily on dreams as their primary source of divine communication. While God can speak through dreams, Scripture teaches us that His primary and most reliable voice is found in His written Word.

1. The Longing to Hear God’s Voice

Every human heart longs to connect with its Creator — to know His will, to be warned of danger, and to be led in truth. This desire is natural, but it must be guided by the Word of God.

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
— John 10:27 (NIV)

The voice of the Shepherd is not hidden — it is available through His Word.

2. Not Every Dream Comes from God

It’s important to understand that not all dreams are spiritual or divine. The Bible clearly tells us that dreams can come simply from the busyness and anxieties of daily life.

“A dream comes when there are many cares…”
— Ecclesiastes 5:3a (NIV)

Dreams may reflect what preoccupies our minds — entertainment, worries, personal desires — not necessarily a message from heaven.

3. The Danger of Replacing the Word with Dreams

Some believers have shifted their focus from Scripture to dreams, interpreting every dream as if it’s a divine revelation. This is spiritually dangerous.

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”
— 2 Timothy 4:3 (NIV)

When we abandon the Bible and depend on personal dreams, we open ourselves up to deception and false guidance.

4. God’s Primary Way of Speaking is Through His Word

The Bible is the living, active, and unchanging Word of God. It is the foundation of truth and the clearest expression of His will.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
— 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)

Even though God sometimes spoke through dreams (e.g., to Joseph in Genesis 37 and Matthew 1), these were rare and purposeful events. In contrast, God’s Word is consistently available to all believers.

5. Jesus’ Teachings — Clear Examples of God’s Voice

Jesus directly communicated God’s will with no riddles or symbols. His Sermon on the Mount is a powerful example of how God speaks plainly:

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder…’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
— Matthew 5:21–22 (NIV)

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
— Matthew 5:38–39 (NIV)

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
— Matthew 5:43–44 (NIV)

These are not symbolic dreams — they are straightforward teachings from the mouth of God Himself.

6. Conclusion: Anchor Your Life in the Word, Not Dreams

Dreams can sometimes serve a purpose in God’s plan, but they are not the foundation of spiritual life. The Bible is. When we read, meditate on, and obey God’s Word, we are truly in tune with His voice.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
— Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

Final Word: Maranatha – The Lord is Coming!

Let us not be distracted by dreams but be rooted in the eternal truth of Scripture. Share this message with others who may be depending on unstable foundations — and point them to the solid rock of God’s Words.

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