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Whoever falls on this stone will be broken

Whoever falls on this stone will be broken – A Theological Reflection on Matthew 21:44

Matthew 21:44 (NKJV)
“And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.”

Matthew 21:45 (NKJV)
“Now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard His parables, they perceived that He was speaking of them.”

1. Introduction: The Stone That Divides

This statement by Jesus comes at the end of the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew 21:33–46). In this parable, Jesus confronts the Jewish religious leaders—chief priests and Pharisees—who were actively rejecting His messianic authority. The “stone” Jesus speaks of is not a mere metaphor, but a deeply rooted biblical symbol with prophetic and salvific implications.

2. Who or What Is the Stone?

The “stone” Jesus refers to is Himself, fulfilling multiple Old Testament prophecies:

  • Psalm 118:22 (NKJV)
    “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.”

  • Isaiah 8:14–15 (NKJV)
    “He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel… and many among them shall stumble; they shall fall and be broken, be snared and taken.”

Jesus, as the Cornerstone, is the foundation of salvation (Ephesians 2:20), but for those who reject Him, He becomes a cause of their downfall. You either build upon Him or are broken by Him.

3. Meaning of “Falling on the Stone”

“Whoever falls on this stone will be broken…”

This implies a personal confrontation with the truth of Christ. Those who encounter Him but resist His authority often experience internal brokenness. This may include conviction, guilt, crisis, or judgment. It is similar to being shattered spiritually or morally.

But this brokenness can be redemptive—like the breaking of pride and self-sufficiency that leads to repentance. Many people come to Christ by first being broken. Think of Paul’s encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). He was broken in spirit before he was built up in Christ.

4. Meaning of “On Whomever It Falls, It Will Grind Him to Powder”

This part of the verse reveals a more final and severe judgment. To be crushed by the stone is to face irreversible destruction. This is not just brokenness—it is obliteration. It symbolizes divine wrath and final judgment for persistent rejection of Christ.

This reflects the prophecy in:

  • Daniel 2:34–35 (NKJV)
    “You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet… and broke them in pieces… and the stone… became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.”

That stone in Daniel represents the coming Kingdom of God, established by Christ, which will ultimately destroy all rebellious world systems. Christ is both Savior and Judge.

5. Historical Fulfillment: The Fall of Jerusalem (70 A.D.)

The warning in Matthew 21:44 was not just symbolic. The religious leaders who rejected Jesus eventually faced destruction when the Romans invaded Jerusalem in 70 A.D., destroying the temple and decimating the Jewish leadership. This was a partial fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy in:

  • Luke 19:43–44 (NKJV)
    “For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you… and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”

The rejection of the “Stone” led to national ruin.

6. Practical Application: Are You Building or Falling?

We all respond to Jesus in one of three ways:

  • Build your life upon Him (Matthew 7:24–25): You find safety, strength, and eternal life.

  • Stumble over Him: You resist His Word, leading to brokenness that may or may not lead to repentance.

  • Be crushed by Him: Persistent rebellion ends in judgment—eternal separation from God.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NKJV) reminds us:
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

7. A Call to Repentance and Faith

If Jesus Christ is not yet the foundation of your life, now is the time to turn to Him. Allow Him to break your pride and rebuild your heart. Receive Him not just as a good teacher—but as the Lord, Savior, and Judge.

  • Romans 10:9 (NKJV)
    “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Don’t wait for the stone to fall on you. Instead, come and be built on it.

Conclusion: Build on the Rock

Jesus is the solid Rock—the Chief Cornerstone. To reject Him is to face spiritual ruin. To build on Him is to find eternal life. Are you standing on the Rock—or standing against it?

May the Lord bless you.

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pride and rebuild your heart. Receive Him not just as a good teacher—but as the Lord, Savior, and Judge.

  • Romans 10:9 (NKJV)
    “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Don’t wait for the stone to fall on you. Instead, come and be built on it.

Conclusion: Build on the Rock

Jesus is the solid Rock—the Chief Cornerstone. To reject Him is to face spiritual ruin. To build on Him is to find eternal life. Are you standing on the Rock—or standing against it?

May the Lord bless you.

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“You have heard that it was said”

 

“You have heard that it was said”

Scripture, we find two kinds of laws related to human conduct: those directly commanded by God, and those instituted by human leaders or customs that God permitted temporarily among His people. For example, the Israelites were allowed to practice divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1), capital punishment for certain sins such as adultery (Deuteronomy 22:22), and the principle of lex talionis—“an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” (Exodus 21:24)—which regulated justice and prevented excessive punishment.

However, it is crucial to understand that these laws, while found in the Torah, were not part of God’s original design for human relationships and society. From the beginning, God’s intention was for marriage to be a permanent, sacred union. As recorded in Genesis 2:24 (ESV):

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”

God never commanded divorce or killing as ideal practices. These laws arose from the hardness of human hearts and the sinful condition of mankind. We see this clearly in the teaching of Jesus Christ, who restored God’s original intention for marriage and human relationships.

The Context of Moses’ Law

The children of Israel inherited many customs from Egypt and their surrounding cultures, including divorce, revenge, and harsh punishments. When God led them out of Egypt to the Promised Land, their hearts remained stubborn and attached to these practices. Because of their spiritual immaturity and hardness of heart, God allowed Moses to permit these laws temporarily. This was an act of divine concession (also called economy or economia in theological terms), not a reflection of God’s perfect will.

Jesus explains this concession in Matthew 19:3-9 (ESV):

3 And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?”
4 He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female,
5 and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?
6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
7 They said to him, “Why then did Moses command one to give a certificate of divorce and to send her away?”
8 He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.
9 And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”

Here, Jesus emphasizes the original intent of marriage as lifelong and exclusive. The allowance of divorce by Moses was a concession to human sinfulness, not God’s ideal. This shows us how God’s law interacts with human weakness — God accommodates but does not approve the brokenness of sin.

Theological Significance

This teaching reveals the progressive nature of divine revelation. The Old Testament laws contained both moral principles and ceremonial or civil regulations appropriate for Israel’s covenantal context. Many laws in the Old Testament anticipate or find their true fulfillment in Christ (Hebrews 8:13). The Mosaic law is pedagogical (Galatians 3:24), guiding God’s people until the coming of the Messiah who perfects and fulfills the Law.

This is why Paul writes in Romans 1:28 (ESV):

“And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done.”

God allows human beings to follow their hardened desires, but this is not His perfect plan.

God’s Heart Toward Enemies and Justice

It is also important to recognize that the Old Testament laws regarding revenge and punishment were limited and regulated to prevent escalating cycles of violence (Exodus 21:23-25). They were justice-oriented, not personal vengeance. Yet, God’s ultimate revelation in Christ calls for a higher standard.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus commands radical love and forgiveness (Matthew 5:43-45, ESV):

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.”

This calls us beyond the legalistic, retributive mindset to a life marked by grace, mercy, and reconciliation—reflecting God’s own character.

Paul reinforces this in Romans 12:20-21 (ESV):

20 “To the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This is the ethic of the Kingdom—not retaliation but overcoming evil through love and goodness.

Conclusion

The laws in the Old Testament reflect God’s patience and mercy toward a fallen people. They are not the final word but part of God’s unfolding redemptive plan. Jesus came to restore God’s original intent for marriage, justice, and human relationships. He calls us to a higher standard of holiness, love, and forgiveness.

Our role today is to live according to this new covenant, pray for those who oppose us, and share the good news of God’s transforming grace.

Maranatha!

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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.

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What Does “concerning” Mean?

The word “concerning” or “about” . For example, if you want to say, “I don’t know anything about the second coming of Christ,” you could say, “I don’t know anything concerning the second coming of Christ.” So, concerning simply means “about” or “regarding.”

Interestingly, this specific word appears only twice in the entire Bible, both times in the book of Psalms.

Psalm 17:4–5

“Concerning the works of men,
By the word of Your lips I have kept myself from the paths of the destroyer.
My steps have held fast to Your paths,
My feet have not slipped.”

This passage expresses a believer’s commitment to live a holy and righteous life by God’s guidance. “Concerning the works of men” shows an awareness and careful separation from sinful ways, emphasizing personal holiness as commanded throughout Scripture (see 1 Peter 1:15-16).

Psalm 87:5–6

“Yes, of Zion it shall be said,
‘This one and that one were born in her’;
And the Most High Himself shall establish her.
The Lord will count when He registers the peoples,
‘This one was born there.’”

Here, “concerning Zion” speaks about God’s special relationship with His people and the establishment of His kingdom. Zion symbolizes the community of the faithful, a theme echoed in Hebrews 12:22-24, where Zion represents the heavenly Jerusalem.

Knowing what “concerning” means helps us understand how the Bible communicates about important subjects. When applied to doctrines like the second coming of Christ, knowing “concerning” or “about” this event is crucial for spiritual readiness.

The New Testament repeatedly urges believers to be watchful and prepared for Christ’s return (Matthew 24:42-44, 2 Peter 3:10-12). Ignorance about this vital truth can put a person in spiritual danger because the second coming is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan and final judgment (Revelation 22:12).

So, if you don’t know anything about the second coming of Christ, it’s urgent to seek understanding. Study God’s Word, pray for wisdom, and stay spiritually alert. We live in the last days, and Christ’s return is near (Hebrews 10:25). Are you ready to meet Him?

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Don’t Eat What’s Meant for the Dogs

Exodus 22:31

“You are to be my holy people. So do not eat the meat of an animal torn by wild beasts; throw it to the dogs.”

Shalom, beloved,

In the Old Testament, God gave Israel more than just rules—He gave them principles for living holy and healthy lives. In Exodus 22:31, God commands them not to eat meat from animals torn by wild beasts. On the surface, this was a practical concern for health and hygiene. Torn flesh left out in the wild could be contaminated by disease or decay. But spiritually, this law pointed to a deeper truth: God’s people are to be discerning about what they consume—both physically and spiritually.

God says,

“You are to be my holy people…” (Exodus 22:31).

Holiness means being set apart—not just avoiding sin, but also walking in wisdom and purity. God didn’t want His people feeding on anything questionable or contaminated. In the same way, today, believers must be cautious about what teachings they receive and embrace.

Spiritual Discernment in the New Covenant

In the New Testament, the Apostle John echoes this need for discernment:

1 John 4:1

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

We live in a time filled with information—sermons, podcasts, social media teachings. But not everything labeled “Christian” is biblical or truthful. God calls us to test every teaching against His Word. Just because a message sounds inspiring doesn’t mean it is from the Holy Spirit.

The Danger of Consuming Without Testing

If someone offered you a half-opened bottle of soda from a store, you wouldn’t drink it—you don’t know if it’s spoiled or poisoned. Spiritually, the same principle applies. We should not carelessly receive teachings or revelations we don’t understand or haven’t tested against Scripture.

Proverbs 14:15

 “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”

If we aren’t careful, we may consume harmful doctrines that weaken our faith, confuse our identity, or mislead us entirely. That’s how many fall into heresies, legalism, or spiritual bondage.

Feed Yourself from God’s Word

God desires every believer to take responsibility for their spiritual nourishment. Don’t rely solely on what others say—dig into the Word yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you:

John 16:13

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth…”

This means learning to “hunt” for your own spiritual food—reading Scripture, praying for insight, and seeking sound teaching rooted in biblical truth. Be like the Berean believers:

Acts 17:11

 “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character… for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”

Don’t Be Like the Dogs

In Exodus 22:31, God says the torn meat should be thrown to the dogs. Why? Because dogs were not discerning. They ate anything. We are not dogs. We are God’s holy people. We are called to walk in wisdom, not blindly consume everything we hear.

Jesus also warned about spiritual dogs—those who reject or trample on holy things:

Matthew 7:6

“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs…”

So, ask yourself:

  • Are you testing what you’re being taught?
  • Do you know the source of your spiritual food?
  • Are you regularly in God’s Word?

If not, it’s time to start. As deception increases in the last days (Matthew 24:24), only those grounded in truth will endure. Don’t eat just anything because it looks spiritual. If it’s torn, questionable, or compromised—leave it for the dogs.

You are not a dog—you are a child of God. Be holy. Be wise. Be grounded.

Exodus 22:31

“You are to be my holy people. So do not eat the meat of an animal torn by wild beasts; throw it to the dogs.”

May the Lord bless you with discernment and a hunger for His truth.

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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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The Suffering of Hell:

Is there scriptural evidence that people who die in sin will experience suffering after death?

Yes, the Bible makes it clear that those who die in sin without salvation will face eternal suffering. Let us delve into the scriptures to understand this truth.

The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31)

In Luke 16:22-25 (NIV), we read about the rich man and Lazarus. Jesus tells the story of a poor man named Lazarus, who died and was carried to Abraham’s side (a symbol of paradise), and a rich man who died and was buried. The rich man, after death, found himself in Hades (Hell), experiencing torment.

Luke 16:23-24 – “In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.'”

Here, the rich man is clearly in a place of conscious suffering and torment, yearning for relief. This parable illustrates the eternal separation between the saved and the damned, and the suffering in Hell that is beyond escape once death has occurred.

Luke 16:25 – “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things. But now he is comforted here, and you are in agony.'”

The key takeaway from this is that earthly rewards or hardships cannot be exchanged after death. Those who have lived for worldly gain without regard for God’s commandments are shown to experience torment in the afterlife.

The Biblical Reality of Hell

Hell is a real and eternal place of punishment for those who reject God. It is often described as a place of torment, fire, and separation from God’s presence.

Revelation 20:14-15 (NIV) – “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”

This passage reveals the final judgment, where all who have rejected Christ are cast into the “lake of fire,” which is described as the “second death” (eternal separation from God). This is the final fate of those who do not accept Christ and live in sin.

Proverbs 27:20 (NIV) – “Death and Destruction are never satisfied, and neither are the eyes of man.”

Hell, according to this verse, is never full, and it continues to receive the souls of those who are eternally separated from God. The imagery of “Death and Destruction” reflects the finality of judgment, with no way out. It is a place of eternal suffering with no relief.

The Barren Womb and Hell’s Never-Ending Satisfaction (Proverbs 30:15-16)

Proverbs 30:16 (NIV) – “The grave, the barren womb, the earth that is not satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, ‘Enough!’”

Hell is described as a place that is “never satisfied.” The grave, the barren womb, and fire all symbolize emptiness that can never be filled. The suffering in hell is likened to an insatiable fire, always consuming and never ceasing.

No Second Chances After Death

The Bible is clear that once someone dies, there are no second chances for salvation. After death, the opportunity to repent is over.

Hebrews 9:27 (NIV) – “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…”

There is no purgatory or second opportunity to repent after death. Each person’s eternal fate is sealed at the moment of death, and they will face judgment based on their relationship with Christ while alive.

No Prayers from Hell (Isaiah 38:18-19)

Hell is a place of finality, and there are no prayers or intercession that can reach God from that place.

Isaiah 38:18-19 (NIV) – “For the grave cannot praise you, death cannot sing your praise; those who go down to the pit cannot hope for your faithfulness. The living, the living they praise you, as I am doing today; parents tell their children about your faithfulness.”

This passage highlights the separation between the living and the dead. Once a person enters the grave (or hell), there is no ability to praise God, and no second chance to seek His mercy. The living, while on earth, are the ones who can worship and praise God.

The Deception of Second Chances After Death

Many people have been deceived into thinking that there is hope for those who die in their sins. Some believe in the possibility of being released from torment in hell through prayers, or through someone else interceding for them. However, the Bible does not support such ideas.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV) – “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.”

Once someone dies, there is no more opportunity to repent or change their ways. The decisions made in this life are final in terms of their eternal destiny.

2 Corinthians 5:10 (NIV) – “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”

The Bible teaches that each person will be judged based on how they lived during their time on earth. There is no way to change that after death, as the judgment is final.

The Urgency of Repentance and Salvation

We are warned throughout the Scriptures that there is urgency in turning away from sin and coming to Jesus Christ for salvation. Hell is real, and its torment is eternal. Repentance and faith in Jesus Christ are the only way to escape the eternal punishment of hell.

John 14:6 (NIV) – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Jesus is the only way to escape hell. He offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who repent and believe in Him. But there is no other way, and time is running out.

Acts 2:38 (NIV) – “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

Repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and receiving the Holy Spirit are essential to salvation. Jesus calls us to turn from our sinful ways, be baptized, and follow Him in obedience.

Conclusion: Avoid Hell and Follow Jesus

Hell is real and eternal, and there is no way out once someone is there. The suffering is indescribable, and there are no second chances after death. The Bible teaches that those who reject Christ will face eternal punishment in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15). However, Jesus offers hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to those who repent and trust in Him.

Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart (Hebrews 3:15). Turn away from sin, embrace Jesus as your Savior, and follow Him with all your heart. The consequences of rejecting Him are eternal, but through repentance and faith in Jesus, you can have eternal life with God.

May you choose life today and follow the narrow path that leads to eternal life.

John 3:36 (NIV) – “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.”

May God bless you and guide you in this decision.

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