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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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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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:
Jesus modeled this mission, and the Father confirmed His work was pleasing (see John 5:30).
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).
Acts 15:36-41 shows Paul revisiting churches he planted to strengthen believers, proving that evangelism must be paired with discipleship.
Ask yourself:
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.”
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).
May God strengthen us to fully live His will, bear lasting fruit, and lead others to eternal life!
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?
“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.
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.”
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).
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.
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.
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).
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.
(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.
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.
(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.
(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.
(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.
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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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.
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.
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.
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)
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)
The contrast between the two Adams is central to Christian theology:
“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)
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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…”
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Shalom! May the blessed name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, be glorified forever.
Welcome to this Bible study. Let us open our hearts to the living Word of God, which brings light, discernment, and truth to His people in these last days.
In 1 Kings 13, we read a sobering story of a true prophet sent by God to rebuke King Jeroboam of Israel. Jeroboam had led Israel into idolatry by setting up golden calves and false altars (1 Kings 12:28–33). God, in His mercy, sent a prophet from Judah with a divine message of judgment.
After delivering the prophecy, the man of God was commanded by the Lord not to eat or drink, nor return the way he came. His obedience was to be total.
1 Kings 13:9 (NKJV)“For so it was commanded me by the word of the Lord, saying, ‘You shall not eat bread, nor drink water, nor return by the same way you came.’”
But as the man of God departed, an old prophet from Bethel intercepted him and lied, claiming that an angel had spoken to him and instructed him to bring the man back to his house for food and water.
1 Kings 13:18 (ESV)“And he said to him, ‘I also am a prophet as you are, and an angel spoke to me by the word of the Lord, saying, Bring him back with you into your house that he may eat bread and drink water.’ But he lied to him.”
Tragically, the man of God disobeyed God’s explicit command. While still in the old prophet’s home, the Word of the Lord came (this time genuinely), and the disobedient prophet was rebuked for violating God’s instruction.
Soon after, he was killed by a lion as a divine judgment (1 Kings 13:24), and his body was left on the road—neither buried among his ancestors nor honored. This shows how partial obedience is still disobedience, and disobedience to God’s clear word leads to judgment—even for those who were once faithful.
This story isn’t just history—it is prophetic warning for believers today. We are in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1), and many sincere Christians are being misled by so-called prophets and preachers who speak in the name of the Lord yet contradict His Word.
These modern false prophets may:
Perform miracles (Matthew 7:22),
Prophesy accurately (Matthew 24:24),
Use the name of Jesus powerfully—yet still be lawless and unapproved by God.
Matthew 7:21–23 (NIV):“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. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Just as the old prophet still heard from God, today we see false teachers who preach, prophesy, and even work miracles—yet live in sin, compromise, and deception. This shows us that spiritual gifts do not equate to godly character or divine approval.
Romans 11:29 (ESV):“For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.”
God may still use people for a purpose, but that does not mean He approves of their behavior.
Jesus made it clear: following Him means self-denial and holiness.
Luke 9:23 (NKJV):“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Hebrews 12:14 (ESV):“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
So when anyone—whether a prophet, pastor, or preacher—tells you that holiness doesn’t matter, or says things like:
“God doesn’t care how you dress.”
“There’s no need to repent of your lifestyle.”
“Living with someone you’re not married to is not sin.”
“Worldliness is acceptable in the church…”
Beware! That person is leading you back to “Bethel”—to disobedience—just like the lying prophet.
We are not called to follow signs and wonders, but to test all things by the Word of God.
Isaiah 8:20 (NKJV):“To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”
Even if a prophet performs miraculous signs but teaches anything that contradicts the Word of God, we are commanded to reject them.
Deuteronomy 13:1–3 (NIV):“If a prophet… appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, and the prophet says, ‘Let us follow other gods’… you must not listen to the words of that prophet…”
Signs can deceive. Truth is always consistent with the written Word of God.
Some preachers say today:
“Wearing tight clothes or revealing outfits is not a sin—it’s your heart that matters.”
But Scripture says otherwise:
1 Timothy 2:9–10 (NIV):“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety… with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
If anyone tells you drunkenness or sexual sin is acceptable, reject that lie:
Ephesians 5:17–18 (ESV):“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
If anyone tells you that Christ’s return is distant or irrelevant, remember:
Matthew 24:44 (NIV):“So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
Believers are commanded to test all spirits and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
1 John 4:1 (ESV):“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Let God’s Word—not experiences, emotions, or miracles—be your compass. The prophet in 1 Kings 13 began in obedience but ended in destruction because he failed to hold fast to God’s Word
In these last days, deception is increasing. Do not follow those who twist Scripture or justify sin, even if they appear spiritual or perform miracles. God is looking for those who will worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24)—with obedience, purity, and reverence.
Let us return to the simplicity of the gospel, the authority of Scripture, and the fear of the Lord.
Psalm 119:105 (ESV):“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Let God’s Word be your foundation, your standard, and your protection.
May the Lord bless you and keep you in His truth. Amen.
Many people are troubled when they see the wicked prosper and live in peace while the righteous suffer. But Scripture shows us that God, in His sovereign wisdom, sometimes allows even the wicked to experience protection, success, and long life. This is not because He condones sin, but because He is patient, giving space for repentance (2 Peter 3:9). The story of Cain illustrates this well.
After Cain killed his brother Abel, God cursed him, declaring that he would become a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth. But when Cain cried out, fearing for his life, God responded—not with more punishment, but with protection:
Genesis 4:14–15 (NKJV):“Surely You have driven me out this day from the face of the ground; I shall be hidden from Your face; I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth, and it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me.”And the Lord said to him, “Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord set a mark on Cain, lest anyone finding him should kill him.
Though Cain committed the first murder in human history, God still placed a mark on him to shield him from harm. This sevenfold vengeance meant severe punishment on anyone who took justice into their own hands. This act reveals God’s attribute of divine restraint and forbearance (Romans 2:4), even toward sinners.
It’s important to note: Cain did not repent. He feared the consequences, but not the sin itself. Yet still, God responded in mercy. This foreshadows a New Testament truth: God sends rain on the just and the unjust (Matthew 5:45), showing His general grace to all people—even those who resist Him.
The spirit of rebellion continued in Cain’s lineage. One of his descendants, Lamech, was even more violent and boastful. He killed a man simply for wounding him, and then invoked God’s protection upon himself, amplifying it:
Genesis 4:23–24 (NKJV):“Then Lamech said to his wives:‘Adah and Zillah, hear my voice;Wives of Lamech, listen to my speech!For I have killed a man for wounding me,Even a young man for hurting me.If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold,Then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.’”
This is not humility—it’s pride cloaked in theology. Lamech presumed that God’s justice system could be manipulated. He took God’s mercy toward Cain as a license to sin without consequence. This attitude reflects what Paul warned about in Romans:
Romans 6:1 (NKJV):“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?”“Certainly not!” (Romans 6:2a)
Lamech distorted God’s mercy into a justification for violence. It shows the danger of misusing divine patience—an ancient form of what today we might call “cheap grace”—receiving grace without true repentance or transformation.
Because of such arrogance and unchecked sin, the human race rapidly spiraled into widespread wickedness. Violence, corruption, and rebellion filled the earth.
Genesis 6:5–7 (NKJV):“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.”
Despite God’s patience, judgment eventually came in the form of the great flood. Only Noah, a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5), and his family were saved. The rest of humanity perished, not only physically but spiritually. Jesus Himself referenced this historical event as a picture of the final judgment:
Matthew 24:37–39 (NKJV):“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.”
So why does God allow the wicked to flourish? The answer lies in His patience and desire for repentance:
Ecclesiastes 8:11 (NKJV):“Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.”
And again:
Romans 2:4 (NKJV):“Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?”
Just because someone is prospering materially does not mean God is pleased with their lifestyle. Many will enjoy worldly peace, only to be suddenly overtaken by judgment:
1 Thessalonians 5:3 (NKJV):“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.”
We are now living in a generation that surpasses even the days of Noah in wickedness—despite having full access to the gospel, the Bible, and centuries of God’s revealed truth.
Jesus gave a sharp warning to Capernaum, a city that saw many miracles but did not repent:
Matthew 11:23–24 (NKJV):“And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.”
If people who saw Christ in the flesh and still rejected Him will face harsher judgment, how much more severe will it be for those of us who have the full gospel and continue in rebellion?
Friend, do not be deceived by temporary peace or the absence of visible consequences. Prosperity is not proof of God’s approval. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). You may be enjoying protection, health, and success while still living in sin—but that will not last forever.
Hebrews 10:31 (NKJV):“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
Examine your life. Repent of sin. Do not waste God’s mercy. Come to Christ and be made new. He is still willing to forgive and save.
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV):“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
Maranatha!The Lord is coming soon. Are you ready?
May God give us all grace to live as those eagerly awaiting His return—not abusing His mercy, but honoring it with lives of holiness.
One of the commonly asked theological questions is:“Was Judas really guilty of sin for betraying Jesus, considering his betrayal was foretold in prophecy?”
This question touches on the relationship between divine foreknowledge and human responsibility, a subject of great depth in Christian theology.
It is true that Scripture contains many prophecies—some concerning those who will be saved, and others about those who will be lost. But we must understand that God’s foreknowledge does not override human free will. The fact that something is foretold does not mean the person involved had no choice.
Isaiah 46:10 – “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure.’”
God’s sovereignty allows Him to know all things in advance, but He still holds each individual accountable for their decisions. This includes Judas Iscariot.
Scripture speaks of two groups in the final judgment—those who will inherit eternal life and those who will face condemnation.
Matthew 8:11 – “And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.”
This prophecy refers to Gentiles who will enter the kingdom by faith, showing that salvation is open to all people groups.
Matthew 7:22–23 – “Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name…? And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”
This demonstrates that not everyone who claims to follow Christ will be saved, especially those who live in disobedience to His Word.
Despite these prophecies, God does not predetermine individual names in Scripture. He never says, “This specific person will be lost,” or “That person will be saved.” Instead, the Bible reveals the types of people, their choices, and the outcomes of those choices.
2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise… but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
Salvation is available to everyone. The decision rests with us.
The betrayal of Jesus was prophesied, but again, no name was mentioned. The prophecy identified the character and actions of the betrayer, not his identity.
Psalm 41:9 – “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.”
Jesus quoted this prophecy in John 13:18, applying it to His betrayal. Yet, this prophecy could have been fulfilled by any of the twelve disciples—it depended on who would allow their heart to be corrupted by greed and disobedience.
Judas made conscious, repeated decisions that aligned with betrayal. He was the group’s treasurer and misused his position.
John 12:6 – “…he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.”
Even when Jesus warned that one of them would betray Him, Judas didn’t turn back or seek forgiveness. This shows willful rebellion despite knowledge of the truth.
Matthew 26:24 – “The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.”
These are not the words of a man who was merely playing out a role. Jesus declares severe judgment upon Judas, proving his personal guilt.
In the end, Judas acknowledged his own sin, but his repentance was filled with remorse, not transformation.
Matthew 27:4–5 – “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood… Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.”
His story is a tragic example of a man who walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, heard His teachings—and yet chose darkness.
The story of Judas is a warning for us all. Judas is gone—but now the spotlight is on our generation. What role will we play in fulfilling prophecy?
Paul wrote about the character of people in the last days:
2 Timothy 3:1–5 –“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money…traitors… lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,having a form of godliness but denying its power.”
The word “traitors” is particularly striking. Judas was one. But in the last days, many will fall into this category—people who claim to follow God outwardly, but whose hearts are far from Him.
If we live in pride, greed, lust, or hypocrisy, we become modern-day fulfillers of that prophecy. In that case, we are not better than Judas—we may even be worse.
Hebrews 10:26–27 –“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,but a certain fearful expectation of judgment…”
So, which prophecy will you fulfill?
Will you be counted among those who sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven?
Or will you be among those who are told, “Depart from Me, I never knew you”?
The choice is yours. As with Judas, God will not force anyone. But He has given us everything we need for salvation through Christ Jesus.
Deuteronomy 30:19 – “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.”
Judas was guilty because he chose betrayal, despite every opportunity to do what was right. The prophecy was fulfilled through him—not because of him. He was not a puppet; he was a free agent.
Let his story serve as a solemn warning to each of us today. Let us not fulfill the prophecy of the wicked, but rather fulfill the prophecy of the righteous.
Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
May the Lord Jesus Christ strengthen us to remain faithful, alert, and obedient until the end.