Title May 2021

Are You Doing God’s Will

If you consider yourself a servant of God, it’s essential to ask: Are you truly doing the will of the Lord Jesus?

Why? Because pleasing God depends on understanding and living out His will. Jesus said clearly:

John 6:37-40 (ESV):
“All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.
For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.
And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day.
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

Here, Jesus teaches the doctrine of eternal security or perseverance of the saints those truly given to Him by the Father will be kept safe and raised on the last day. It reflects God’s sovereign grace in salvation (see also Romans 8:29-30).

In practice, this means two key missions for every believer and servant of God:

  1. Lead others to Jesus so they can believe and receive eternal life.
  2. Care for believers so that none of them fall away or lose their salvation.

Jesus modeled this mission, and the Father confirmed His work was pleasing (see John 5:30).

Bearing Lasting Fruit

John 15:16 (NIV):
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit fruit that will last and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Fruit that “remains” means genuine spiritual growth and lasting transformation, not temporary or shallow faith. This ties into sanctification the ongoing work of God to make believers holy (Philippians 1:6).

Jesus also instructed Peter:

John 21:15-17 (ESV):
“Feed my lambs… Tend my sheep…”

This demonstrates pastoral care, requiring both nourishing (teaching, encouraging) and guarding (protecting believers from falling away).

Perseverance and Growth in the Church

Acts 15:36-41 shows Paul revisiting churches he planted to strengthen believers, proving that evangelism must be paired with discipleship.

Ask yourself:

  • Are you helping others come to faith?
  • Are you helping believers grow and stay faithful?

Jesus said:

John 4:34-35 (NIV):
“My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

Don’t Be a Christian Who Just Sits in the Warehouse

In the parable of the wheat and the chaff, Jesus distinguishes believers (wheat) from unbelievers (chaff):

Matthew 3:12 (NIV):
“His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

The barn represents God’s protection and security.

However, wheat also needs to be planted back in the field to grow and produce a harvest:

John 12:24-26 (ESV):
“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”

This is a call to self denial (Luke 9:23) and counting the cost of discipleship.

Many believers stay “in the barn”  saved but inactive. Jesus calls us to endure trials and temptations to bear fruit (Luke 8:11-15).

Practical Application

  • Salvation is not just a moment; it’s a lifelong process of drawing others to Jesus and helping them remain faithful.
  • Faithfulness involves giving our resources, time, and gifts to God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:7).
  • Don’t be a passive believer; be a fruitful servant who participates actively in the kingdom.

May God strengthen us to fully live His will, bear lasting fruit, and lead others to eternal life!

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JUST AS LIGHTNING FLASHES FROM EAST TO WEST: UNDERSTANDING THE RETURN OF CHRIST

Many Christians today live casually, giving little attention to the urgency and reality of Christ’s return. But have you ever considered why Jesus compared His second coming to lightning?

1. The Suddenness and Visibility of Christ’s Return

“For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.”
Matthew 24:27–28, ESV

Jesus used the image of lightning to convey that His return will be sudden, visible, and undeniable. Just as lightning strikes without warning and lights up the whole sky, Christ’s return will happen quickly no one will miss it, but many will not be ready.

The “vultures” gathering around a corpse in verse 28 symbolize the unavoidable judgment that follows His return. No one escapes His coming, just as no animal escapes the attention of vultures when death is present.

2. Divine Revelation for a Prepared Church

Many believers are unaware that before the rapture, Christ will reveal divine mysteries to prepare His Church. These mysteries are not found in Scripture because they are reserved for a specific time for those walking in intimate fellowship with Him.

Just as lightning is often followed by thunder, spiritual thunder will follow the light of His return symbolic of the Seven Thunders mentioned in the Book of Revelation:

“…He called out with a loud voice, like a lion roaring. When he called out, the seven thunders sounded. And when the seven thunders had sounded, I was about to write, but I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Seal up what the seven thunders have said, and do not write it down.’”
Revelation 10:3–4, ESV

Theologians agree that the content of these thunders was deliberately hidden, pointing to specific divine instructions or revelations that will be understood only by those who are spiritually awake in the final days.

These are not general messages for all ages, but precise truths for a specific, pure Bride of Christ. Amos 3:7 (ESV) supports this idea:

“For the Lord God does nothing without revealing His secret to His servants the prophets.”

3. The Danger of Being Spiritually Deaf

This isn’t the first time God’s voice was mistaken for thunder. When God spoke to Jesus publicly, many people couldn’t recognize His voice:

“Then a voice came from heaven: ‘I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.’ The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, ‘An angel has spoken to him.’ Jesus answered, ‘This voice has come for your sake, not mine.’”
John 12:28–30, ESV

What does this tell us? Without spiritual sensitivity, divine messages will sound like noise. Many will hear but not understand. That is why Jesus constantly urged people to “have ears to hear” (Matthew 11:15).

4. The Urgency to Enter the Narrow Door

Jesus knew there would come a time when people would desire salvation, but the door would be shut.

“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door… you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us.’ Then He will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’”
Luke 13:24–25, ESV

This “door” represents Christ Himself (John 10:9). The time to seek Him is now not after the lightning has flashed and the thunders have sounded.

5. The Gospel Clock is Ticking

The gospel has nearly completed its journey among the nations. According to Jesus:

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Matthew 24:14, ESV

Today, the Jewish people pray daily at the Western Wall, yearning for the restoration of their kingdom. This aligns with the prophetic timeline. Yet many in the Church are asleep chasing miracles, wealth, or motivational messages, but ignoring the deeper call of the kingdom.

6. Work Out Your Salvation Seriously

The Apostle Paul reminds us:

“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”
Philippians 2:12–13, ESV

Fear and trembling here do not mean panic but reverent seriousness. The Christian life is not a casual stroll; it’s a race (Hebrews 12:1), a battle (Ephesians 6:12), and a preparation for a wedding (Revelation 19:7).

Final Thought: The Lightning and the Thunder Are Near

We are living in the final stretch of grace. The signs are everywhere. The “lightning” will flash Christ will appear. The “thunder” will follow messages known only to the ready.

If you are outside of Christ, you will not understand when that moment comes. You may hear the sound, but like many in Jesus’ day, you will say, “It was just thunder.”

Don’t delay.

Come to Christ now. Prepare your heart. Live awake.

Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus.

 

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NOT BY MIGHT, NOR BY POWER, BUT BY MY SPIRIT, SAYS THE LORD

(Zechariah 4:6, ESV)
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.’”

Shalom.

Life often presents challenges that human strength or skill alone cannot overcome. You might exhaust all your abilities or rely on someone else’s power, yet still face failure or frustration. At such times, Scripture teaches us that the true source of victory is not physical might or human effort, but the Spirit of God working within us.

Theological Insight: The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), fully divine and personal, sent to empower believers to live godly lives and accomplish God’s purposes. Jesus promised His disciples that the Spirit would be their Helper and Guide (John 14:16–17, ESV). Without the Spirit, spiritual work is impossible (Romans 8:9), but with Him, we are empowered to overcome obstacles, bear fruit, and live in obedience to God’s will.

Elijah’s Encounter with God: The Quiet Voice of the Spirit

(1 Kings 19:11-13, NIV)

“The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a powerful wind tore through the mountains…but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind came an earthquake…but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire…but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.”

This passage shows that God’s presence and guidance are not always found in dramatic signs or outward displays of power. Instead, God often speaks through the gentle, peaceful voice of the Holy Spirit inviting us to listen closely and respond in faith.

Zerubbabel and the Mountain of Opposition

(Zechariah 4:6-7, NIV)

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘Who are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’”

Here, the “mountain” symbolizes the overwhelming challenges and opposition Zerubbabel faced in rebuilding the temple after the exile. The message is clear: human effort alone will not remove the obstacle; it is only through God’s Spirit that mountains can be made level.

How to Receive the Holy Spirit

(Acts 2:37-39, ESV)

“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ 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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’”

The theological foundation here is repentance turning from sin and trusting in Jesus’ atoning work and baptism as a public declaration of faith. Receiving the Holy Spirit is God’s promise to all who come to Him in faith.

Summary

  • Your strength and human ability have limits; the Holy Spirit empowers you beyond your natural capacity.
  • God’s presence often comes in quiet, peaceful ways rather than loud or forceful signs.
  • Challenges, like the “mountain” before Zerubbabel, can be overcome only by the Spirit.
  • Repentance and baptism open the door for the Spirit to dwell within, enabling you to live victoriously.

Invitation

If you want to experience this power in your life, start with a sincere heart of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Seek baptism and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your daily walk.

Maranatha!

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Why Is Jesus Called the Second Adam?

Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Have you ever asked yourself why Jesus is referred to as the “Second Adam” or the “Last Adam”? This isn’t just a poetic title it reflects a deep theological truth that helps us understand who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish.

1. The First Adam The Head of the Human Race

According to Genesis 1:26–28 (NIV), Adam was the first human created by God. He was given authority to rule over all living creatures and to fill and subdue the earth:

“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over… all the creatures.’”

(Genesis 1:26, NIV)

This divine mandate was not only for Adam but for all his descendants. In theological terms, Adam acted as the federal head of the human race meaning his actions affected all of humanity.

However, Adam sinned (Genesis 3), and that sin broke humanity’s relationship with God. By disobeying God, Adam lost his authority and passed on sin, death, and separation from God to all his descendants.

“Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.”
(Romans 5:12, ESV)

Adam’s fall introduced not just personal sin, but original sin a condition we all inherit from birth.

2. God’s Redemptive Plan  The Need for a Second Adam

God, in His grace, did not leave us in that fallen condition. He had a plan to redeem humanity not by creating a new species or another physical lineage, but by sending Jesus Christ, His Son, to become a Second Adam who would represent a new, redeemed humanity.

“So it is written: ‘The first man Adam became a living being’; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit.”
(1 Corinthians 15:45, NIV)

The first Adam gave us physical life.
The Second Adam (Jesus) gives us spiritual life.

Jesus came not to father children biologically, but to give spiritual birth to those who would believe in Him.

3. The Second Birth  Entering the Family of Christ

Jesus made it clear that to be part of God’s kingdom, we must be born again:

“Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again… born of water and the Spirit.”
(John 3:3,5, NIV)

This second birth is not from Adam, but from Christ through the Holy Spirit. The first birth, from Adam, gives us a mortal, sinful nature. The second birth, through Jesus, makes us spiritually alive and restores our relationship with God.

“That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
(John 3:6, ESV)

4. Jesus’ Authority as the Second Adam

As the Second Adam, Jesus did not only come to redeem us He was also given complete authority over all creation:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
(Matthew 28:18, NIV)

“All things have been committed to me by my Father.”
(Matthew 11:27, NIV)

Unlike Adam, who lost his authority through sin, Jesus conquered sin and death. His authority is not limited to earth, but extends to heaven as well. And all who are born into His spiritual family share in that authority:

“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…”
(Romans 8:16–17, NIV)

5. Two Adams, Two Outcomes

The contrast between the two Adams is central to Christian theology:

  • Adam’s disobedience brought sin, death, and condemnation.
  • Jesus’ obedience brought righteousness, life, and justification.

“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned… how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace… reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!”
(Romans 5:17, NIV)

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
(1 Corinthians 15:22, NIV)

6. The New Birth and the Imperishable Seed

When we are born again, we are not just better people we become new creations, born from an imperishable seed: the Word of God.

“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”
(1 Peter 1:23, NIV)

The old seed Adam’s lineage is corrupted by sin and leads to death. But Jesus gives us a new birth into a kingdom that cannot perish.

7. How to Join the Lineage of Christ – The Second Adam

To become part of Jesus’ redeemed family, the Bible gives a clear path:

“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.’”
(Acts 2:38, NIV)

Step by step:

  • Repent from your sins.
  • Be baptized in water, in Jesus’ name.
  • Receive the Holy Spirit  the Spirit of Christ that gives new life.

Conclusion: Are You Born Again?

The first Adam failed. But Jesus, the Second Adam, succeeded. He came not to destroy but to redeem to give us a new identity, a new birth, and eternal life.

There’s no hope in the old nature. But in Christ, there is full restoration, authority, and inheritance.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
(Ephesians 4:30, NIV)

On that day of redemption when Jesus returns we will receive the glorified bodies He promised, free from pain, death, and decay.

Have you been born again?
If not, now is the time. Jesus, the Second Adam, calls you into a new family and a new future.

May the Lord Jesus Christ the Victor over sin and death bless you richly and lead you into His eternal kingdom.

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What Does It Mean to Worship God in Spirit and in Truth?

Many people today associate worship with singing slow, emotional songs during church services. While music is a powerful expression of worship, true worship is far more than just singing  it is a lifestyle of honoring, revering, and serving God with our whole being.

The Greek word for worship used in the New Testament is “proskuneō”, which means “to bow down, to show reverence, to pay homage.” Worship involves submission of the heart, soul, and actions to God.

1. Jesus’ Teaching on True Worship

In John 4:23–24 (ESV), Jesus says:

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Here, Jesus was speaking to the Samaritan woman, correcting the idea that worship was confined to a place (Jerusalem or Mount Gerizim). He introduced a new era of worship — not based on location or rituals, but on inward reality.

2. Worshiping in Spirit

To worship in spirit means our worship is not just outward or ritualistic, but comes from our innermost being  our spirit  and is made possible through the Holy Spirit.

Paul explains in Romans 8:9 (NIV):

“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”

True worship is only possible for those who are born again and have the Holy Spirit living in them. The Holy Spirit helps us to:

  • Understand God’s will (1 Corinthians 2:10–12),

  • Pray and worship correctly (Romans 8:26),

  • And walk in holiness (Galatians 5:16–25).

As Jesus said in John 16:13 (NLT):

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

3. Worshiping in Truth

To worship in truth means aligning our worship with the truth of God’s Word. It’s not enough to be sincere  our sincerity must be rooted in what God has revealed through Scripture.

In John 17:17 (ESV), Jesus prayed:

“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Therefore, any form of worship that contradicts Scripture  whether in lifestyle, doctrine, or practice  is false worship. Worship in truth means we:

  • Acknowledge God as He is revealed in Scripture,

  • Obey His commands,

  • And submit to His Word as final authority.

4. The Need for Both Spirit and Truth

Spirit without truth leads to emotionalism or spiritual error. Truth without spirit leads to dead formalism. But when both are present, worship becomes a powerful, living offering to God.

Paul summarizes this beautifully in Romans 12:1 (NIV):

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God  this is your true and proper worship.”

5. A Call to Self-Examination

Ask yourself: Am I truly worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth?
You cannot know the truth without the Holy Spirit. And you cannot be led by the Spirit unless you’ve truly received Christ as Lord and Savior.

As Acts 2:38 (NKJV) says:

“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.”

Receiving the Holy Spirit is not just about speaking in tongues. It’s about transformation  a changed heart, a renewed mind, and a life that bears the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).

Final Thought:
These are the last days. Christ is knocking on the hearts of many (Revelation 3:20). The trumpet could sound at any moment, and only those who are in Christ  filled with His Spirit and walking in His truth  will be ready.

Will you be among the true worshipers?

May the Lord bless you and guide you into deeper, Spirit-filled, truth-rooted worship.

 

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What Is an Ephod? Why Did David Need It When He Sought God?

In the Bible, the ephod appears in two primary contexts first, as a sacred garment used in worship, and second, as an object that later became misused in idolatry. Let’s explore both, and understand why King David needed it when seeking God.

1. The Ephod as a Sacred Garment

The ephod was originally a divinely ordained garment, worn by the High Priest and Levitical priests in the Old Testament. It was designed specifically for ministry in the presence of God.

Exodus 28:4 (ESV):

“These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.”

The ephod was made of fine linen interwoven with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarns (Exodus 28:6–14). It included shoulder pieces and a waistband, and later, the breastplate of judgment which contained the Urim and Thummim for divine consultation was attached to it (Exodus 28:30).

The ephod was thus not only a ceremonial garment, but a medium through which the High Priest could inquire of God especially using the Urim and Thummim (see Leviticus 8:7–8; Numbers 27:21).

2. Non-Priestly Use: Samuel and David

Even though the ephod was mainly for priests, others wore simpler versions—like linen ephods as expressions of devotion.

1 Samuel 2:18 (NIV):

“But Samuel was ministering before the Lord a boy wearing a linen ephod.”

Later, David though not a priest wore a linen ephod when worshiping God during the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant.

2 Samuel 6:14 (ESV):

“And David danced before the Lord with all his might. And David was wearing a linen ephod.”

David’s wearing of the ephod here shows his desire to lead in worship with sincerity and humility before the Lord, breaking cultural and royal protocol to express full devotion.

3. David Using the Ephod to Seek God’s Guidance

David also used the ephod to seek divine direction during times of crisis. Since the ephod was connected with the priest’s ability to consult God (especially via Urim and Thummim), it became a tool David valued during his life on the run.

1 Samuel 23:9–12 (NIV):

“When David learned that Saul was plotting against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring the ephod.’ David said, ‘Lord, God of Israel… will Saul come down?’ … The Lord said, ‘He will.’”

Again, in 1 Samuel 30:7–8, when the Amalekites raided Ziklag:

“Then David said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring me the ephod.’ Abiathar brought it, and David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?’ ‘Pursue them,’ he answered.”

The ephod here symbolizes a desire to seek God’s will, not through guesswork, but through divine revelation mediated through the priest.

4. The Ephod Misused: A Cautionary Tale

Despite its sacred origin, the ephod was later corrupted. After victory over the Midianites, Gideon made an ephod from gold, which tragically became an object of idol worship.

Judges 8:27 (NIV):

“Gideon made the gold into an ephod, which he placed in Ophrah, his town. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family.”

This misuse reveals how even God-ordained objects can become idols when they replace or distract from true worship.

5. What About Today? Do We Need an Ephod to Approach God?

No. Today, we no longer need physical garments like the ephod to access God. The ephod was a shadow of something greater fulfilled completely in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.

Hebrews 4:14–16 (NIV):

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess… Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence.”

Through Christ, we no longer need to rely on garments, priests, or sacred objects to seek God’s will. Christ is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), and through His righteousness, we are clothed spiritually.

6. Putting on Christ: The True Ephod for Believers

Just as priests had to wear holy garments to serve, we too must be spiritually clothed in Christ to approach God.

Romans 13:14 (ESV):

“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”

To “wear Christ” means to live a life transformed by repentance, faith, and holiness. Jesus Himself gave a warning:

Revelation 16:15 (NIV):

“Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”

Conclusion

The ephod in the Old Testament was a powerful symbol of drawing near to God. David sought it not for fashion, but for access to divine counsel. Today, through Jesus Christ, we have greater access to God than David or any High Priest ever had.

You don’t need an ephod you need Jesus. Repent, believe in Him, be baptized, and live a holy life. He is the true and better ephod, making us holy and acceptable before the Father.

May the Lord bless you and draw you closer to Himself.

 

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Does Moses Accuse People According to John 5:45?

Let’s read the passage first:

John 5:45-47 (ESV):
“Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father. There is one who accuses you: Moses, on whom you have set your hope. For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?”

At first glance, this might sound like Moses is standing somewhere in heaven accusing people before God. But that is not what Jesus means here. The “accuser” Moses refers to is not Moses himself as a person, but the words and writings of Moses—the Law he gave—those are the things that accuse people.

These words of Moses, inspired by God, become a testimony against those who reject them. This is why verse 47 ends by saying, “But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?” The rejection of Moses’ message is essentially the rejection of Jesus Himself, because Moses foretold the coming of the Messiah.

How Do the Words of Moses Accuse People?

We will explore this shortly, but first, let’s look at what Jesus says elsewhere about His words and judgment:

John 12:47-49 (ESV):
“If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak.”

Notice this carefully: Jesus says the words He speaks will be the basis of judgment on the last day. It’s not Jesus arbitrarily condemning anyone, but the truth of God’s Word, spoken through Him, that will stand as the final standard.

Similarly, Moses doesn’t personally stand to judge us, but the message Moses delivered, the Law and the prophecy about the Messiah, will testify against those who reject Jesus.

The Role of Prophetic and Apostolic Words in Judgment

It is not only Moses’ words that will accuse and judge; the words of all the prophets and apostles in the Bible also serve this purpose. For example, the Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, writes:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (ESV):
“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”

If someone hears this warning but dismisses or disobeys it, Paul’s inspired words stand against them in judgment.

Paul further clarifies the authority of his gospel:

Romans 2:16 (ESV):
“On that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.”

This means that all inspired Scripture—whether Moses, the prophets, or the apostles—is God’s perfect Word. It is the standard by which God will judge humanity, both now and at the final judgment.

The Present and Future Power of God’s Word

Paul also teaches about love and spiritual gifts:

1 Corinthians 13:1-2 (ESV):
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”

Even great spiritual gifts and knowledge are worthless without love. At judgment, the Word will reveal if we truly lived by God’s standards—not just by external signs or powers, but by love and obedience.

Therefore, the Word of God is actively “accusing” us now. It convicts, exposes sin, and calls us to repentance. Ignoring or despising God’s Word is dangerous—not only for eternal judgment but for the present spiritual battle, because Satan uses these very Scriptures to accuse us before God.

How Does This “Accusing” Work?

Think of it as a legal case: when a person claims to be saved but continues knowingly in sin, such as sexual immorality, Satan can bring the Word of God as evidence in heaven:

1 Corinthians 6:16 (ESV):
“Or do you not know that if anyone is joined to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh.'”

If a believer knowingly and willfully sins, Satan can stand before God and say, “Lord, this person claims to be Yours, but they have deliberately broken Your commands which You revealed through Your Word.” This becomes a valid accusation.

This is why it is crucial to obey and hold fast to God’s Word daily, lest the devil’s accusations prevail.

The Final Appeal

The Bible—the 66 books inspired by the Holy Spirit—is the ultimate authority and the standard of judgment. If you have not yet received Jesus Christ as your Savior, today is the time. Satan does not want you to accept salvation because he desires your eternal separation from God.

But God offers forgiveness, new life, and the indwelling Holy Spirit to those who repent, believe in Jesus, and are baptized in His name. This is how we can be secure and assured of eternal life, avoiding the condemnation that God’s Word rightly pronounces against sin.

Summary

  • Moses does not personally accuse people; his inspired writings do.

  • Jesus’ words and all Scripture are God’s testimony that will judge everyone.

  • Rejecting God’s Word is rejecting Christ Himself.

  • The Word convicts us now and will judge us on the last day.

  • Satan uses Scripture to accuse those who disobey God despite knowing His commands.

  • Salvation is found only in trusting and obeying Jesus Christ.

  • Today is the day of salvation—receive Jesus, repent, and be baptized.

May the Lord bless and keep you steadfast in His Word.

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What is the meaning of “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain” ?(Deutronomy 25:4)

The phrase “You shall not muzzle” means that the ox, which is working to separate the grain from the chaff (a process known as threshing), should not be prevented from eating some of the grain while it works. The practice of threshing grain in ancient times often involved oxen walking over bundles of grain or treading on it, and as they did this, some of the grain would fall to the ground. The law was given to ensure that the ox could eat some of the grain it worked on.

The significance of this command is not just about the ox; it also speaks to how we treat others, especially those who work for us or serve us. The ox works hard, and God commands that it should receive its fair share of the fruits of its labor. This principle goes beyond animals and applies to humans as well.

Theological Meaning:

In the context of the Old Testament, this law reflects God’s concern for justice and kindness, even towards animals. It shows that God cares about the well-being of all His creatures, and that those who work hard should not be denied their due. It also reflects God’s desire for us to practice fairness, even in matters that seem minor.

Paul, in the New Testament, uses this passage to illustrate a principle about those who preach the Gospel. In 1 Corinthians 9:9-14, he writes:

1 Corinthians 9:9-14 (NIV)
“For it is written in the Law of Moses: ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.’ Is it about oxen that God is concerned? Surely he says this for us, doesn’t he? Yes, this was written for us, because whoever plows and threshes should be able to do so in the hope of sharing in the harvest. If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right of support from you, shouldn’t we have it all the more?”

Here, Paul takes the law about the ox and applies it to the ministry of the Gospel. Just as the ox is allowed to eat while working, so too should those who work for the Kingdom of God—specifically, the apostles and ministers—be supported by the people they serve. Just as the ox benefits from the work it does, so should those who labor in spiritual work be able to benefit materially from their work.

Paul emphasizes that the right to receive support for ministry is not just an option, but a command from God. Ministers of the Gospel, like the ox in Deuteronomy 25:4, have a right to receive sustenance from their work, which is not just for their own benefit but also for the benefit of the community.

Why Did God Give This Command?

The question arises: why did God command not to muzzle the ox? It is clear that God, in His wisdom, wanted to ensure justice, not just for human beings, but also for animals. The ox would be working hard, and by allowing it to eat a little from the grain it was treading, God ensured that its needs were met. This shows that even in the smallest details, God cares for His creatures.

Furthermore, God uses this example to illustrate a broader principle: fairness and justice should extend beyond human beings to every aspect of life, including our treatment of animals and those who serve us. If the ox should not be deprived of its share, how much more should those who serve us spiritually or in other ways be treated with fairness and respect?

Applying This Principle to Ministers and the Church:

In 1 Corinthians 9:9-14, Paul applies the principle directly to those who preach and teach the Gospel. He argues that just as the ox benefits from its work by eating some of the grain, so should those who labor in the work of the Lord be supported by the people they serve. He writes that those who sow spiritual seeds among people have the right to receive a material harvest.

This teaching emphasizes the responsibility of the congregation to support their ministers, both financially and materially. When people benefit from the ministry of the Word, it is only just for them to share in the material support of the minister. Paul makes it clear that this is not just a recommendation but a divine command. To withhold support from a minister is akin to muzzling the ox—denying them the reward of their labor.

Practical Application:

This principle has practical implications for Christians today. If you are being spiritually fed, whether through preaching, teaching, or the work of a ministry, you have a responsibility to support that ministry. This could be through giving financially, volunteering time, or in other ways. The church and its ministers have a right to be supported for their work, just as any worker has the right to receive payment for their labor.

The Call for Generosity and Compassion:

In Proverbs 12:10 (NIV), it says,
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.”

This reinforces the point that showing care for others, including those who work for us or serve us, is a sign of righteousness. If we are willing to care for our animals and ensure they are not deprived of what is due to them, how much more should we show kindness and generosity to the people around us, especially those who labor for our spiritual well-being?

Conclusion:

The command not to muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain is not just about animals; it is a teaching about justice, fairness, and compassion. It shows that God cares for the welfare of all His creation, and it calls us to extend that care to others, including those who serve us spiritually. Just as the ox has a right to enjoy some of the grain it works on, so too should those who serve in God’s work be supported.

The New Testament affirms this principle, urging believers to support those who preach and teach the Word of God, ensuring that their material needs are met. In doing so, we follow God’s command of justice and show the love and care He desires for His people.

As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 5:18 (NIV),
“For Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages.’”
This is a reminder for us to be generous and just in our support of those who labor for the kingdom of God.

Final Thought:

If you are one who benefits from spiritual ministry, consider whether you are fulfilling your responsibility to support that work. Just as it would be cruel to deny the ox its share of the grain.

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What Did Paul Mean by Writing in Large Letters?

Galatians 6:11 (NIV)
“See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!”

Introduction
The Apostle Paul’s comment in Galatians 6:11 about writing in “large letters” has sparked curiosity among many believers. Was it a literal statement about handwriting, a symbolic expression of urgency, or both? To understand this, we must consider both the context of the epistle and Paul’s theological concerns.

1. The Context of the Epistle to the Galatians

The letter to the Galatians was written to churches in the region of Galatia that Paul had previously evangelized (Acts 13–14). After his departure, certain Judaizers—Jewish Christians who insisted on the observance of the Mosaic Law—began teaching that Gentile believers had to be circumcised and follow the Law of Moses to be fully accepted by God.

Galatians 1:6-7 (NIV):
“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ.”

Paul wrote to correct this serious theological error. The Galatians, who had received the Holy Spirit by faith, were now being misled into thinking they needed works of the law for salvation.

2. The Danger of Legalism

The central theme of Galatians is justification by faith, not by works of the law. Paul passionately argues that returning to the law nullifies the grace of God and the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.

Galatians 2:21 (NIV):
“I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”

He rebukes the Galatians sharply:

Galatians 3:1-2 (NIV):
“You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard?”

Paul reminds them that their initial experience of the Spirit was a result of faith, not legal observance. He considers reverting to the law as spiritual regression (Galatians 4:9-10).

3. Why Paul Wrote in Large Letters

By the end of his letter, Paul picks up the pen himself—a practice he did occasionally to authenticate his letters (see 2 Thessalonians 3:17). In Galatians 6:11, he draws attention to the “large letters” he uses.

This could indicate:

  • Authenticity – To verify the letter came directly from him.
  • Urgency and Emotion – To emphasize the seriousness of the message.
  • A Physical Condition – Some scholars suggest Paul may have had poor eyesight (see Galatians 4:13-15), which could explain the large handwriting.

But more importantly, it was a visual emphasis—much like we might use capital letters, bold font, or underlining today. He was making sure they didn’t miss the gravity of what he had just written.

4. Modern Parallels and Misapplications

Sadly, many Christians today repeat the same error the Galatians made—confusing outward practices with true righteousness. For example:

  • Elevating the Sabbath above the work of the Spirit.
  • Claiming dietary restrictions are necessary for holiness.
  • Teaching that salvation must include law-keeping alongside grace.

But Scripture is clear:

Ephesians 4:30 (NIV):
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”

The seal of God is not a day or ritual—it is the Holy Spirit Himself. Moreover:

1 Timothy 4:1-5 (NIV):
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons… They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving.”

This aligns exactly with what Paul saw happening in Galatia and what continues in some circles today.

5. Conclusion: Return to the True Gospel

Paul’s use of large letters was not merely a stylistic choice—it was a heartfelt plea. He wanted the Galatians to wake up to the truth: salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. Not by observing Sabbaths, circumcision, or any part of the law.

Let us also examine our own faith. Are we relying on traditions, external rituals, or denominational teachings that add to the gospel? If so, we risk falling under the same deception Paul warned against.

Let us return to the foundation of Scripture and embrace the freedom we have in Christ.

May the Lord bless you and keep you in His truth.

 

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