Title May 2021

Are We Just a Resounding Gong or a Clanging Cymbal?

“May the grace and peace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you all.”

Let’s take a moment to reflect on an important message drawn from the words of the Apostle Paul—one that challenges the very foundation of our Christian faith.

The Priority of Love Over Gifts

In 1 Corinthians 13:1–3 (NIV), Paul writes:

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
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.”

The Corinthian church was highly gifted (see 1 Corinthians 1:7), but Paul saw that their practice of spiritual gifts lacked something essential—agape love—the selfless, sacrificial, God-centered love that is the core of Christian character.

He uses a striking metaphor: even if we speak heavenly languages or perform incredible acts of faith, without love, we’re just making noise—like a brass gong or clanging cymbals that make an impression but quickly fade away. These instruments are loud but ultimately meaningless without melody or purpose. So too are spiritual gifts and religious acts without genuine love.

Love Is Not Optional—It Is Foundational

In Matthew 22:37–40 (ESV), Jesus summarized the entire Law and the Prophets with two commandments:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
This is the great and first commandment.
And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Without this two-fold love—for God and for people—our worship, service, and sacrifices lose eternal value.

Paul continues in 1 Corinthians 13:4–8 (NIV) to describe the nature of true love:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”

This is the kind of love God demonstrated to us through Christ—“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, ESV). We didn’t earn it. We didn’t deserve it. Yet, He gave it freely. That’s agape—and that’s the love we’re called to reflect.

The Danger of Giftedness Without Holiness

Sometimes people begin their spiritual journey with great zeal—especially after experiencing miracles or breakthroughs. But if that zeal isn’t rooted in love for God, it fades over time. Like a gong, it’s loud at first but quickly silences. Jesus warned of this in the Parable of the Sower—some receive the word with joy, but when trials come, they fall away (Matthew 13:20–21, NIV).

There’s a sobering story of a renowned pastor in Jamaica—known for powerful prophetic gifts. He could reveal deep secrets of the heart, and many viewed him as a mighty man of God. But during a powerful service where the Holy Spirit moved, he broke down in tears, confessing a long-hidden life of sexual immorality. His gifts had continued, but his personal life was in rebellion against God. He was, in Paul’s terms, a “clanging cymbal”—outwardly powerful, but inwardly empty of love and holiness.

Jesus also warned about this:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven… Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name…?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you.’”
(Matthew 7:21–23, NIV)

Serving God Must Flow from Love

We must constantly examine our hearts. Are we preaching, singing, evangelizing, prophesying, or giving from a place of love for God and others? Or is it for recognition, tradition, or personal gain?

If not rooted in love, our service—even if it blesses others—may not be accepted by God. Paul says in Galatians 5:6 (NIV):

“The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”

Let’s not run in vain. Let’s not be Christians who “sound” spiritual but lack substance. We may see miracles, speak in tongues, and fill churches—but if our hearts are far from God, we’re just noise in His ears.

The Call to Return to First Love

Jesus said to the church in Ephesus:

“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.
Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”
(Revelation 2:4–5, NIV)

Let us not fall into that trap. Let’s love God not because of what He does for us, but because of who He is. Let’s love people not only when they love us back, but because Christ loved us first.

In Conclusion:
Without love, everything we do for God is in vain. Let us put love first—pure, patient, selfless, forgiving love. Only that kind of love will remain when all gifts, knowledge, and tongues pass away.

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
(1 Corinthians 13:13, NIV)

May the Lord help us to walk in love that reflects His heart.
God bless you—please share this message with other.

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THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JESUS’ CLOTHING AT THE CROSS

 

In John 19:23-24 (NIV), we read:


“When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took His clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the tunic remaining. The tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. ‘Let’s not tear it,’ they said to one another. ‘Let’s decide by lot who will get it.’ This happened that the Scripture might be fulfilled that said, ‘They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.’ So this is what the soldiers did.”

Theological Reflection:

The detail about Jesus’ clothing is far more than a trivial mention of His possessions. The division of His garments and the gambling for His tunic fulfills

 Psalm 22:18 (NIV):

“They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”


This prophecy, spoken by David centuries before Christ, is being realized in this moment at the cross. Jesus’ clothing is not just a random item in the narrative; it serves as a living fulfillment of Scripture, pointing to His identity as the Messiah. His nakedness symbolizes the depth of His sacrifice—He is fully exposed to the world, both physically and spiritually.

Jesus was stripped of everything at the cross, symbolizing that He gave up all His rights, possessions, and honor for the sake of our salvation. The seamless tunic, which was undivided and woven from top to bottom, could be seen as a symbol of the unity and completeness of Christ’s mission. It was His singular, unbroken sacrifice for humanity, unlike any other.

Why Was Jesus Naked on the Cross?

In the Roman crucifixion practice, criminals were publicly stripped naked as a means of humiliation, furthering their shame. This was intended to disgrace them in front of a crowd. But for Jesus, this wasn’t just about public shame—it was a profound part of His atonement. As

 Isaiah 53:3 (NIV) states:


“He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces, He was despised, and we held Him in low esteem.”

Jesus, the sinless Son of God, took on the shame of sin—though He Himself was without sin. In His nakedness, He bore our shame. Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) clarifies this further:


The phrase “scorning its shame” reveals that Jesus did not just endure the physical pain of the cross, but He also endured the spiritual humiliation of being mocked and rejected by humanity.

Why Did Jesus Allow This?

Have you ever wondered why Jesus allowed this immense shame, knowing He had the power to avoid it?

2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) gives us the theological answer:


“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”


Jesus allowed Himself to be exposed, humiliated, and even forsaken, so that we might be reconciled to God. It was not a mistake or a random act—it was the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. He did it for you and me, to pay the price for our sins.

In Philippians 2:7-8 (NIV), we see the extent of Christ’s humility:


“Rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

This was the ultimate humiliation, but also the greatest act of love in human history. Jesus was willing to endure such humiliation to save us from eternal separation from God.

The Call to Follow Christ Boldly

Jesus endured this shame and humiliation so that we could be saved. How, then, can we be ashamed of Him?

Romans 1:16 (NIV) says:


“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”


Paul is declaring that the gospel—despite its seeming foolishness and humiliation to the world—is the very power of God for salvation. This should embolden us to stand firm in our faith and to boldly proclaim the message of Jesus, even in a world that mocks Him.

2 Timothy 1:8 (NIV) also exhorts us:


“So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me His prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.”
We are called to follow Jesus, even when it means facing shame and persecution. Just as He endured for us, we too are called to endure for Him.

The Consequences of Denying Christ

In Mark 8:38 (NIV), Jesus warns us:

 

“If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels.”


This is a serious warning. Jesus promises that if we are ashamed of Him now, He will be ashamed of us when He returns in glory. We must take this warning to heart. We cannot hide our faith or be silent when it comes to the gospel. The stakes are eternal.

The Invitation to Salvation

Jesus didn’t hesitate to endure everything for our sake. Now, He calls us to follow Him. These are the last days, and He is coming soon. If you haven’t yet repented and trusted in Him, today is the day.

Acts 2:38 (NIV) teaches:


“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.'”


This is the way to receive forgiveness for your sins and be reconciled to God. If you make this decision, the Holy Spirit will come to guide you in all truth.

If you’re ready to make this commitment, contact us through the numbers below. We are here to help you in your journey toward salvation.

May the Lord bless you richly.

Please share this good news with others.

 

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NO ONE TAKES MY LIFE – I LAY IT DOWN MYSELF

There are many miracles and teachings of Jesus that reveal His divinity. But one of the most extraordinary is this: Jesus claimed He had the authority to lay down His life—and to take it up again. This statement sets Him apart from any other religious figure in history.

1. JESUS LAID DOWN HIS LIFE VOLUNTARILY

“No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.”
(John 10:18, NKJV)

Contrary to what it may seem, Jesus was not a passive victim. His crucifixion was not an accident or a surprise. He willingly offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. He declared in

John 10:15,

“I lay down My life for the sheep.”

This wasn’t just martyrdom—it was a conscious, divine act of redemption.

Theological Insight:
In Christian theology, this speaks to Christ’s divine nature (John 1:1-3) and His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His death was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies like Isaiah 53:5-10 which foretold the suffering servant who would die for the transgressions of others.

2. JESUS WASN’T KILLED—HE GAVE UP HIS SPIRIT

“And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.”
(Matthew 27:50, NKJV)

Jesus didn’t simply “die” as others do—He gave up His spirit. Even the Roman centurion was astonished that He died so quickly (Mark 15:44), as crucifixion usually took days. This shows that He chose the exact moment of His death.

“Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again.”
(John 10:17, NKJV)

3. JESUS HAD THE POWER TO TAKE HIS LIFE BACK (THE RESURRECTION)

“Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
(John 2:19, NKJV)

Jesus wasn’t just claiming He would rise from the dead—He said He would raise Himself. This proves His divine power over death and the grave.

Theological Insight:
The resurrection is central to Christian faith. As Paul writes:

“And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!”
(1 Corinthians 15:17, NKJV)

The resurrection confirms Jesus as the Son of God and validates His sacrifice as complete and acceptable to God (Romans 1:4).

4. WHY DID JESUS DIE AND RISE AGAIN? (THE PURPOSE OF THE CROSS)

To understand, consider this analogy:

Imagine your phone receives an important software update. You’re told, “Turn it off and back on again for the update to work.” The update is already there, but until you restart the phone, it won’t take effect.

Likewise, Jesus had to “restart” humanity through His death and resurrection so the full blessings of salvation could be activated for all people—Jews and Gentiles alike.

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.”
(John 12:24, NKJV)

Jesus died and rose to bear much spiritual fruit—people like us who believe today.

5. JESUS DIED FOR BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES

“And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring… and there will be one flock and one shepherd.”
(John 10:16, NKJV)

The “other sheep” here are the Gentiles (non-Jews). Jesus came to bring unity and salvation to the whole world, not just Israel.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
(Galatians 3:28, NKJV)

6. HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND TO THIS GIFT?

The correct response is not just admiration—but action:

  • Repent of your sins
  • Be baptized in Jesus’ name
  • Receive the Holy Spirit

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
(Acts 2:38, NKJV)

7. DON’T NEGLECT THIS GREAT SALVATION

“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…”
(Hebrews 2:3, NKJV)

“Of how much worse punishment… will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot…”
(Hebrews 10:29, NKJV)

Grace is available now—but it won’t last forever. This is the time to respond.

CONCLUSION:

Jesus didn’t just die—He chose to die. He didn’t just rise—He had the power to rise. This wasn’t for His own benefit but for yours. He calls you now. Will you answer?

Maranatha! – The Lord is coming soon.
Please share this message with someone today.

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What do the seven colours of the rainbow represent?

“Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome as we explore the Word of God—our light, our guide, and our hope on the journey to heaven.”
(Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” NKJV)

Have you ever wondered why national flags often consist of multiple colors, and how each color carries a specific meaning? For example, the flag of Tanzania has four colors: black represents its people, yellow symbolizes natural resources, green stands for agriculture and vegetation, and blue represents water bodies like oceans and lakes. In the same way, the colors are not just for decoration—they communicate the identity and values of a nation.

Likewise, God has His own “flag”, revealed not on a piece of cloth, but in the sky itself: the rainbow.

The Rainbow—God’s Divine Banner

After the great flood in Noah’s time, God placed the rainbow in the sky as a sign of His covenant not to destroy the earth by water again.

“I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.”
(Genesis 9:13, NKJV)

This rainbow is more than a visual sign—it is a revelation of God’s character. While human flags are made of fabric, God’s flag is painted in the heavens with seven distinct colors, each representing something profound about His divine nature.

Two Foundational Attributes of God

Before we explore the symbolism of the rainbow, it’s important to understand two foundational attributes of God revealed in Scripture:

  1. God is Abounding in Anger

    “God is jealous, and the Lord avenges;
    The Lord avenges and is furious.
    The Lord will take vengeance on His adversaries,
    And He reserves wrath for His enemies.”
    (Nahum 1:2, NKJV)

  2. God is Abounding in Mercy

    “And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed,
    ‘The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth…’”
    (Exodus 34:6, NKJV)
    See also: Psalm 145:8, Joel 2:13, Jonah 4:2.

This duality—abundant wrath and abundant mercy—is uniquely present in the nature of God. While He can be provoked to anger, the Bible also says He is “slow to anger” (Psalm 103:8), showing that His mercy delays His judgment.

The Rainbow: A Journey from Wrath to Mercy

In everyday life, color often reflects emotional or physical states. For instance, red is commonly associated with heat, danger, or anger. Think of a person flushing red when angry. On the other hand, blue symbolizes calmness, peace, and coolness. A hot object glows red; a cold one appears bluish. These metaphors help us grasp the spiritual symbolism of the rainbow.

Let’s explore each of the seven colors of the rainbow as a progressive revelation of God’s movement from judgment to mercy, starting from red and ending in blue:

1. Red – Wrath, Judgment

Symbolizes God’s anger and holiness that cannot tolerate sin. It reminds us of divine justice and the seriousness of rebellion.

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness…” (Romans 1:18)

2. Orange – Diminishing Judgment

This color reflects the beginning of mercy. It suggests a tempering of judgment and the gradual transition away from divine anger.

3. Yellow – Hope and Glory

A bright and hopeful color, yellow represents the light of God shining through the storm, pointing to His glorious promises.

“The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light…” (Matthew 4:16)

4. Green – Life, Grace, and Renewal

This is the center of the rainbow and represents God’s grace—His power to bring new life and restore what was broken.

“He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul…” (Psalm 23:2–3)

5. Blue-Green (Cyan) – Calmness and Increasing Mercy

As we move further from red, God’s mercy deepens. This color reflects healing, calm, and spiritual refreshing.

6. Blue – Peace and Divine Mercy

Symbolizing the fullness of God’s compassion and serenity. It’s no coincidence that the sky itself is blue, as a permanent reminder of God’s mercy over the earth.

“But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious,
Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.” (Psalm 86:15)

7. Violet (Purple) – Majesty and Kingship

Though not always visible in every rainbow, purple signifies God’s royal authority, sovereignty, and holiness.

“The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19)

Theological Significance: Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment

After the flood, God’s rainbow was a symbol that His mercy had triumphed over His judgment.

“Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:13b)

The progression of rainbow colors—from red to violet—mirrors the transition from divine wrath to divine grace, from judgment to restoration, all ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

The Call to Respond: Accept His Mercy Today

Jesus Christ offers complete forgiveness and rest for your soul:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28–30)

No matter how far you’ve gone, His mercy is greater still. If you repent today and turn to Him, His anger will be turned away, and His mercy will overflow in your life.

But beware: rejecting His mercy means falling back into His wrath.

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:31)

Conclusion

The rainbow is not just a beautiful arc in the sky—it is God’s banner of love, justice, mercy, and promise. It tells the story of a holy God who judges sin but delights in mercy. May it remind us to seek His grace while it is still available.

Maranatha – The Lord is coming!

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Understanding the Fatherhood of God: A Theological Reflection

Key Passage:


Ephesians 3:14-15 (NIV)
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.”

1. God’s Universal Fatherhood

Paul’s words emphasize the all-encompassing fatherhood of God. When he says “every family in heaven and on earth derives its name from Him,” he is referring to God’s role as Creator and Sustainer of all beings—angels in heaven and humans on earth.

This is not about fatherhood by adoption (which is the case for believers through Christ, see Romans 8:15), but rather a foundational fatherhood rooted in creation itself. All creatures owe their existence to Him. This mirrors the Old Testament understanding of God as the Father of all humanity (Malachi 2:10), but Paul expands it even more.

Colossians 1:16 (ESV)
“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.”

This verse reinforces the cosmic scope of God’s authority and ownership—everything exists through Him and for His purposes. His “fatherhood” is not sentimental but authoritative and providential.

2. God’s Role as Sustainer and Provider

A true father provides, sustains, and protects. Jesus highlighted this in His teaching about God’s care for creation:

Matthew 6:26-30 (NIV)
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? … If that is how God clothes the grass of the field… will He not much more clothe you—you of little faith?”

Jesus points out that God’s providence extends even to the smallest parts of creation—birds and flowers—showing how much more He cares for us as His children.

3. God Deserves Worship as Father of All

Paul’s act of kneeling (Ephesians 3:14) reflects humility and worship in response to the majesty of God’s fatherhood. The recognition that God is Father in both heaven and earth leads to worship, submission, and trust.

Philippians 2:9-10 (NIV)
“Therefore God exalted Him [Jesus] to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.”

This universal worship includes all realms—spiritual and physical, heaven and earth—again echoing the idea that God’s rule and fatherhood are absolute.

4. God as Father to Believers in a Special Way

Although God is the Creator and Father of all, He is the Abba Father to believers in a special, redemptive sense. Through Christ, we are adopted into God’s family.

Romans 8:15 (NIV)
“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.'”

This deeper father-child relationship is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ. While all creation belongs to God, only believers are spiritually adopted into His eternal family.

5. Living as Children of the Father

Being God’s children means trusting Him for our daily needs, but also living according to His ways.

Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

This is a call to trust in divine provision and to live in alignment with His righteousness. Our Father knows our needs and promises to supply them, but we must prioritize His kingdom.

Conclusion:
God is not only the Creator of all but the sustaining Father over all creation—both in heaven and on earth. He deserves our worship because of His sovereign authority, loving provision, and redemptive work through Christ. While all families and beings find their origin in Him, only through faith in Jesus do we become His children in the fullest, most intimate sense. Let us therefore kneel before Him, seek His kingdom, and live as true sons and daughters of the Most High.

Be blessed.

 

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Being a Friend of the World Means Being an Enemy of God

James 4:4 (ESV):

“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”

This is one of the most direct and sobering declarations in the New Testament. James, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, compares spiritual compromise with adultery betraying the covenant relationship between God and His people. Being a “friend of the world” means aligning yourself with a system that is fundamentally opposed to God’s will and character.

In biblical terms, “the world” (Greek: kosmos) doesn’t just mean the physical earth or people but rather the fallen world system its values, desires, and ambitions that are rooted in sin, pride, and rebellion against God (cf. John 15:18–19).

The Dangers of Loving the World

1 John 2:15–17 (ESV):

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life is not from the Father but is from the world.
And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”

John lays out three root categories of sin that characterize the world:Desires of the flesh  Sinful cravings such as gluttony, lust, drunkenness, and sexual immorality.Desires of the eyes  Covetousness, materialism, and a relentless pursuit of wealth and status.Pride of life  Arrogance, self-sufficiency, boasting in achievements or possessions.

These are not from God but from the fallen world system under the influence of Satan, who is called the “god of this world” in 2 Corinthians 4:4. The Bible warns that all these things are temporary. They will pass away. Only those who do God’s will shall remain.

The Pride of Life: A Deadly Sin

The “pride of life” includes the refusal to be taught or corrected, often fueled by education, wealth, or power. When someone feels they no longer need God or treat His Word as optional that’s the pride of life.

Jesus warned of this self-deception:

Mark 8:36–37 (ESV):

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?
For what can a man give in return for his soul?”

Heaven and hell are real. Eternal souls are at stake. Gaining the whole world, while losing eternal life, is the ultimate tragedy.

Biblical Examples of Worldly Pride and Its Consequences

1. King Belshazzar  Daniel 5

Belshazzar profaned the holy things of God by using the sacred temple vessels for a drunken party. That night, God judged him. A hand appeared, writing on the wall: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. Daniel interpreted the message: Belshazzar had been weighed and found wanting. He died that very night, and his kingdom fell.

2. The Rich Man and Lazarus  Luke 16:19–31

Jesus tells of a rich man who lived in luxury while ignoring a poor beggar named Lazarus. When the rich man died, he found himself in torment, begging for relief. His wealth and worldly status had no value in eternity. He was forever separated from the presence of God.

3. Queen Jezebel  1 Kings 21 & 2 Kings 9

Jezebel, a symbol of rebellion and pride, killed God’s prophets and promoted idolatry. She lived in vanity and self-exaltation. But her end was gruesome God judged her, and she was thrown from a window, and dogs devoured her body.

These accounts are not just stories they are divine warnings.

1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV):

“Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.”

The Call to Repent and Be Saved

The question is personal:
Are you a friend of God, or an enemy of God?

If you still love the sinful ways of the world sexual immorality, drunkenness, gossip, profanity, obsession with fame, fashion, and entertainment you are, by your lifestyle, aligned against God. You don’t have to say it with your mouth; your actions speak for you.

But there is hope. God, in His mercy, calls you to repent.

Acts 2:38 (ESV):

“And Peter said to them, ‘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.'”

Genuine repentance involves a turning away from sin and turning to Christ as Savior and Lord. Biblical baptism (by full immersion, in Jesus’ name) is a public act of faith and obedience. And the Holy Spirit empowers you to walk in holiness, no longer a friend of the world, but a true is that God is coming soon.

Maranatha.

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If we are saved by grace, why must we strive to obtain salvation?

QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say, “The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?

ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear  there is none.

Ephesians 2:8–9

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

But then the question arises  if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:

Matthew 11:12

“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”

The answer is that we have an enemy  Satan  who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.

Matthew 7:13–14

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.


Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have  all so that you do not lose your salvation.

That is where the saying

“the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.

For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night  Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before  to watch and pray  and instead, they slept.

Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation  or worse, you might lose it entirely.

So, we do not just believe in Jesus and then remain idle  no. That is only the first step. The next step is to fight, struggle, and endure pain in order to guard our salvation, because our enemy, the devil, is constantly hunting for it day and night.

QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say,

“The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?

ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear  there is none.

Ephesians 2:8–9

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

But then the question arises  if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:

Matthew 11:12

“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”

The answer is that we have an enemy  Satan  who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.

Matthew 7:13–14

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.


Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have  all so that you do not lose your salvation.

That is where the saying “the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.

For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night  Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before  to watch and pray  and instead, they slept.

Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation  or worse, you might lose it entirely.

May the Lord bless you

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What Does It Mean That “No One Can Say ‘Jesus is Lord’ Except by the Holy Spirit”?

Key Verse:

1 Corinthians 12:3 (NKJV)
“Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.”

At first glance, this verse might seem confusing. Anyone can verbally say “Jesus is Lord,” right? Even those who don’t truly follow Christ could say those words. So what is Paul really saying here?

The answer lies in the spiritual depth of the confession. Paul is not referring to a mere verbal utterance, but to a genuine acknowledgment of Jesus’ divine lordship, prompted by the indwelling and revelation of the Holy Spirit.

1. Confessing Jesus as Lord Is a Spiritual Act, Not Just Words

Paul explains that true faith in Jesus’ lordship comes through spiritual revelation, not human logic or tradition. Jesus is not merely a historical figure or a good teacher—He is God incarnate, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world.

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.”

This confession is not just reciting a creed; it is a response to divine revelation brought by the Holy Spirit. Only someone touched, convicted, and regenerated by the Spirit can truly and meaningfully declare “Jesus is Lord.”

2. True Confession Comes From the Heart

Jesus warned that not everyone who outwardly claims Him will be saved:

Matthew 7:21-23 (NKJV)
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven… Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”

This clearly shows that verbal acknowledgment without obedience and transformation is empty. Real confession is always accompanied by repentance, obedience, and a changed life.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Confession

It is the Holy Spirit who:

  • Reveals who Jesus truly is (John 16:13-14)
  • Regenerates the believer (Titus 3:5)
  • Assures us of our adoption (Romans 8:15-16)
  • Enables us to live in obedience to Christ (Galatians 5:22-25)

Without the Holy Spirit, any confession of Jesus lacks power and authenticity.

John 16:13-14 (NKJV)
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth… He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.”

4. You Cannot Have the Holy Spirit and Curse Jesus

This is why Paul also says in the same verse (1 Corinthians 12:3) that no one speaking by the Spirit of God can say, “Jesus is accursed.” The Holy Spirit always leads us to honor, worship, and submit to Jesus. Any attitude or belief that degrades or dishonors Christ is clear evidence that the Spirit is not present.

5. How Then Can We Confess Christ Rightly?

Jesus said that to enter the Kingdom, we must be born again:

John 3:5 (NKJV)
“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Being born again involves:

  • True repentance (turning from sin)
  • Water baptism (public identification with Christ)
  • Receiving the Holy Spirit (empowerment to live for God)

Only then can our words of faith come from a genuine place. After that transformation, every prayer, every praise, and every confession we make—“Jesus is Lord”—will be Spirit-led, meaningful, and effective.

6. A Holy Confession Requires a Holy Life

2 Timothy 2:19 (NKJV)
“Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.’”

Confessing Jesus as Lord requires more than words—it requires us to turn away from sin and live in a way that reflects our new identity in Christ.

Conclusion:

To truly say “Jesus is Lord” in a way that honors God and reflects saving faith, you must be born again through the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit dwells in you, your confession becomes real, powerful, and pleasing to God. Without Him, even the most religious words are just noise.

Let’s not settle for lip service. Let’s seek a heart transformation through repentance, baptism, and the infilling of the Holy Spirit—so that when we say “Jesus is Lord,” we say it in truth and power.

Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus!)

Please share this message with others—it’s the Good News the world needs.

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THE RAPTURE: A SUDDEN AND UNEXPECTED EVENT

In the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, He gave us signs that would precede His second coming. He made it clear that when we observe certain signs earthquakes, wars, pestilences, false prophets, and societal upheavals we should know that His return is near. As recorded in

Matthew 24:3-8 (NKJV), His disciples asked,

“Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

Jesus answered by describing various signs:

  • Wars and rumors of wars (v. 6)
  • Famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (v. 7)
  • Persecution and betrayal (v. 9-10)
  • False prophets leading many astray (v. 11)

He emphasized that these signs would occur as part of the birth pangs, but they would not reveal the exact day of His return. What Jesus never revealed is the precise day when He would come to take His church this remains a mystery. The lack of knowledge regarding the specific time of His return is one of the greatest challenges for Christians today. Despite all the signs being fulfilled in our time, people still look for a specific clue or signal that would alert them to the exact day of the rapture.

The Days of Noah: A Parallel to Christ’s Return

Jesus Himself compared His second coming to the days of Noah, a period of rampant disregard for God’s warning. In

Matthew 24:37-39 (NKJV), Jesus says:
“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”

No one in Noah’s day anticipated the flood. They were consumed with everyday activities, eating, drinking, marrying, and living their lives, completely unaware that God’s judgment was about to descend. Jesus is telling us that His return will be the same it will catch many by surprise. As Noah entered the ark and the rain began, the people were taken unawares, just as the world will be when Christ returns.

This is why, in

Matthew 24:42-44 (NKJV), Jesus urges us to be vigilant:
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

This is a call to spiritual vigilance. The exact day and hour of Christ’s return will remain unknown to everyone, including His faithful followers. Even the “bride of Christ” (the church) will not know the specific time of the rapture. This is why believers are urged to stay spiritually alert, living faithfully according to God’s will until the return of the Lord.

The Parable of the Faithful Servant

Jesus continued His teaching by emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and readiness in

Matthew 24:45-47 (NIV):
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.”

This parable illustrates the importance of doing the work of the Lord while we wait for His return. The faithful servant is one who continues to carry out his duties feeding others, fulfilling his responsibilities, and being diligent in the tasks God has assigned to him. This is the behavior that pleases God and ensures readiness for His return.

The Suddenness of the Rapture

In

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 (NKJV), Paul wrote about the unexpected nature of the rapture:

“For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.”

The return of Christ, including the rapture of the church, will come as a thief in the night. It will be sudden and unexpected. People will be going about their daily routines planning their futures, building their careers, enjoying their lives when, in an instant, the rapture will occur, and one will be taken, and the other left. This is consistent with

Matthew 24:40-41 (NKJV), where Jesus said:

“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and the other left.”

This illustrates that the rapture will be a selective event. Some will be taken to be with the Lord, while others will be left behind to face the tribulation.

The Regret of Those Left Behind

For those who miss the rapture, the consequences will be devastating. In

Matthew 25:11-12 (NKJV), Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the regret of those who were unprepared:

“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'”

The unprepared virgins represent those who failed to be spiritually ready for Christ’s return. When the door is shut, it will be too late for them to change their fate. They will be left in regret and sorrow, wishing they had been ready.

Similarly, in Luke 13:25-28 (NIV), Jesus speaks of the regret of those who are shut out of the Kingdom:

“Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.'”

The time for repentance and preparation is now. Once Christ returns, there will be no more opportunities for repentance. The regret that follows will be eternal.

The Urgency of Repentance

There is still time, though it is very short. As we wait for the return of Christ, there is an urgent call for repentance.

In 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV), we are reminded that:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Christ is offering one last opportunity for sinners to turn to Him before the rapture occurs. Today is the day of salvation. If you have not yet repented and placed your trust in Jesus Christ, do so now. Acknowledge your sin, turn away from it, and receive the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion: Be Ready, for the Lord’s Return Is Near

In these final moments before Christ’s return, there is still a chance to make things right with God. The signs are clear, and the day of Christ’s return is drawing near. The rapture will come unexpectedly, and only those who are ready, living in faith and obedience to Christ, will be taken.

Shalom.

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Did Queen Esther Use Makeup? What Does That Mean for Christian Women Today?

As believers, it’s essential to approach the Word of God with humility, reverence, and above all, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Scripture, when interpreted without the Spirit’s illumination, can easily be twisted to support anythingfrom immorality to false doctrines.

As 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV) says:
“He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Without the Holy Spirit, we may even wrongly justify sin. Some have used the Bible to defend alcohol abuse, same-sex marriage, or polygamy. That’s why Paul reminds us that interpretation must be Spirit-led.

What Really Happened to Queen Esther?

Some argue that since Queen Esther underwent beauty treatments before meeting King Ahasuerus, modern Christian women are free to adorn themselves however they wish through makeup, artificial hair, skin bleaching, etc. But is that what the Bible actually teaches?

Esther 2:12 (NKJV) says:
“Each young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after she had completed twelve months’ preparation, according to the regulations for the women, for thus were the days of their preparation apportioned: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes and preparations for beautifying women.”

This verse shows that the process Esther underwent was not cosmetic in the modern sense. It was a purification and healing regimen. The oils and spices mentioned like oil of myrrh had antiseptic and restorative properties. These treatments were meant to cleanse the body, heal the skin, and refresh the natural beauty that may have been affected by harsh living conditions. It was more of a physical and ceremonial sanctification rather than painting the body with artificial enhancements.

What Does the New Testament Say About Adornment?

The New Testament provides clear instruction on how godly women should present themselves:

1 Timothy 2:9-10 (NIV)
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”

Here, Paul emphasizes inner beauty and godliness over outward appearance. He does not say it is inherently sinful to wear jewelry or braid hair, but he warns against making physical appearance a priority over spiritual character.

1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV) echoes this:
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

The biblical principle is that true beauty is inward. The emphasis is on purity, humility, modesty, and good works not on physical appeal through worldly means.

The Body Is God’s Temple

The Bible also reminds us that our physical bodies are sacred. They are temples of the Holy Spirit:

1 Corinthians 3:17 (NKJV)
“If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”

When believers excessively modify or dishonor their bodies in ways that promote vanity or mimic worldly lusts, they dishonor God’s temple. This includes practices like excessive makeup, artificial beauty enhancements, wearing revealing or tight clothing, and anything done with the motive of seduction or vanity.

So, Is It a Sin for a Christian Woman to Wear Makeup or Adorn Herself?

The Bible doesn’t outright forbid makeup or adornment but it warns against worldly motivations behind it. If the purpose is pride, seduction, comparison, or seeking human approval, then the act becomes spiritually dangerous.

As Paul said:

Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Our call is to reflect Christ, not the culture. Christian women are encouraged to pursue holiness in both heart and appearance, honoring God in every area of life.

Final Thoughts

Esther was chosen not because of cosmetics, but because of her grace, purity, and the favor of God (Esther 2:15-17). Her preparation was inward and ceremonial, not focused on artificial outward beauty.

Dear sister in Christ, if you find yourself relying on makeup, wigs, revealing clothes, or skin bleaching to feel beautiful or accepted, let the Holy Spirit minister to your heart. God sees beauty in your humility, modesty, and devotion not in your physical enhancements.

Let us strive to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, which are His (1 Corinthians 6:20).

Maranatha! Jesus is coming soon. Be found ready, holy, and set apart.

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