By the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, Shalom!
Today, I want to address a vital subject that many believers overlook God’s condition for granting forgiveness. This is not just a theological topic, but a practical, spiritual principle that deeply affects our relationship with God. If we misunderstand this truth, we may live our whole Christian life assuming we are forgiven, while in reality, we are not.
Please read carefully to the end this could affect your eternity.
The Bible makes it clear that
“all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”
(Romans 3:23, ESV). No one is exempt. Even if we avoid obvious, intentional sin, there are still the hidden faults and unintentional offenses we commit dailyespecially through our words, attitudes, or negligence (Psalm 19:12).
You might unknowingly hurt someone through what you thought was a harmless comment, but in God’s eyes, causing your brother to stumble is not a light matter (Matthew 18:6). That’s why a lifestyle of repentance is essential for every Christian (1 John 1:9).
Contrary to popular belief, God’s forgiveness is not unconditional. While salvation is a free gift (Ephesians 2:8-9), forgiveness requires something from usthat we forgive others.
Jesus was very clear about this in the Lord’s Prayer:
“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”—Matthew 6:12 (ESV)
He didn’t add conditions to asking for daily bread or deliverance from evil. But when it came to forgiveness, He set a clear principle: our forgiveness from God is directly tied to our willingness to forgive others.
This is reinforced immediately after the prayer:
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”—Matthew 6:14–15 (ESV)
This is not a mere suggestion it’s a divine law. God is holy and just, and He cannot contradict His word. If you choose not to forgive, you are choosing to forfeit God’s forgiveness.
It’s sobering to realize that God may still bless someone materially even if their heart is not right. Jesus said the Father
“makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good” (Matthew 5:45, ESV).
You might receive wealth, health, and answered prayers in some areas, even while holding grudges but when it comes to forgiveness of sin, God draws a hard line.
You can’t expect mercy while denying it to others. Jesus told a parable about this in Matthew 18:21–35. A servant forgiven a great debt refused to forgive someone who owed him very little. The master then said:
“‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me.And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt.”—Matthew 18:32–34 (ESV)
Jesus concluded with a stern warning:
“So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”—Matthew 18:35 (ESV)
This is not a small issue it has eternal consequences. If you die without having forgiven someone from your heart, you risk eternal separation from God. Jesus didn’t come so we could say we’re saved while holding on to bitterness. He came to set us free, and that includes freeing us from resentment and revenge (Ephesians 4:31–32).
You might say, “But you don’t know what they did to me!”True but God does. And still, He calls you to forgive. Jesus Himself forgave His murderers as they crucified Him (Luke 23:34). Stephen, the first martyr, prayed for those stoning him (Acts 7:60). We are called to follow their example.
If you are unwilling to forgive, you are not walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–25), no matter how long you’ve been in church or how many scriptures you quote.
Forgiveness is not a one-time event it’s a lifestyle. Jesus said we must forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22, ESV), meaning continually. The Apostle Paul urges us:
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”—Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)
You may not feel like forgiving. But forgiveness is not about emotionit’s about obedience. Let go of the bitterness, not because they deserve it, but because God commands it and because your soul depends on it.
Don’t gamble with your soul.You can be generous, prayerful, even a leader in the church but if you harbor unforgiveness, you stand condemned by the very God you serve.
Let this be your daily prayer:“Lord, help me forgive as You have forgiven me. Cleanse my heart from bitterness and make me whole again.”
May the Holy Spirit give you strength to walk in love, and may your life reflect the mercy you’ve received.
Shalom. Live forgiven and forgiving.
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There are many reasons God may seem silent in our lives. Sometimes, it’s due to spiritual immaturity, disobedience, lack of faith, or even divine testing. But today, I want to focus on a profound and often overlooked reason one that can close the door to divine communication altogether:
Pretending Not to Know When You Actually Do.
This is a spiritually dangerous form of hypocrisy. It’s when someone knows the truth of God’s Word but chooses to ignore it or pretends ignorance while still seeking answers from God in prayer. This heart posture can cause God to withhold further revelation or communication.
Let’s explore this through Scripture.
Mark 11:27–33 (NIV)
27 They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. 28 “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” 29 Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 30 John’s baptism was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!” 31 They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ 32 But if we say, ‘Of human origin’…” (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.) 33 So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
Here, the religious leaders weren’t ignorant; they were evasive. They knew the truth but refused to acknowledge it out of fear and pride. As a result, Jesus refused to engage them further. This is a clear warning: when we suppress the truth we already know, God may choose not to reveal anything more.
The Bible teaches that once we’ve received knowledge of the truth, we become responsible for responding to it with obedience. Ignoring it or pretending not to understand is a form of rebellion.
James 4:17 (NIV)
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
God does not take lightly the rejection of known truth. In fact, continuing to seek divine direction while ignoring His already-revealed will can be dangerous it can lead to spiritual deception.
2 Thessalonians 2:10–12 (NIV)
“…They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie, and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.”
When we turn our ears away from God’s Word, we may inadvertently open ourselves to deception even from false visions, dreams, or spiritual impressions that seem divine but are not.
Many seek answers through prayer and fasting over things that are already clearly addressed in Scripture. For example:
1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (NIV)
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men, nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
There is no need to pray for “confirmation” that drunkenness, fornication, idolatry, or sexual immorality are sins they are already condemned in Scripture. Pretending uncertainty here is spiritual self-deception.
Hebrews 10:26 (NIV)
“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left.”
God expects us to obey what we already know before He gives us more.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NIV)
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
This means living in purity not polluting your body through immorality, addictions, or defiant behaviors. To knowingly violate this truth and still expect God to speak is to mock His holiness.
Many Christians chase dreams, prophecies, or feelings, hoping to “hear from God,” yet neglect the Bible God’s living and active Word.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword…”
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NIV)
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
If you’re not hearing God speak, go back to His written Word. He has already spoken.
If you desire a deeper relationship with God and clearer direction from Him, start by obeying what He has already revealed. Don’t pretend ignorance when His Word is clear. Submit to His truth and live it out.
John 14:21 (NIV)
“Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
May the Lord help us not to walk in hypocrisy or pride. Let us honor His Word, obey His commands, and live lives worthy of His calling.
Maranatha! (The Lord is coming soon.)
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The Bible speaks clearly about two ultimate destinies for humanity: SALVATION or JUDGMENT. Every person will inevitably fall into one of these two categories (John 3:16-18, Hebrews 9:27).
But before we go further, consider these important questions:
Does God choose a person before they are born? Does He already know that person’s eternal destiny whether they will dwell with Him in heaven or be condemned to eternal separation (often described as the lake of fire)?
The answer is found in Scripture: God is omniscient (all-knowing). He knows every detail of our lives from beginning to end (Psalm 139:1-4). The Apostle Paul writes that God “chose us in him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4, ESV), indicating that God’s election of individuals is from eternity past.
God knows the ultimate destiny of every person whether they will be saved or lost (Romans 8:29-30). This knowledge does not negate human free will but reveals God’s sovereign plan (Romans 9).
No human being, no matter how holy, can know the eternal fate of another person; that knowledge belongs solely to God (Matthew 24:36).
Let’s examine the biblical prophecies about both groups, starting with those who will be judged.
Judgment of the Dead Revelation 20:12-13 (ESV):
“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done.”
This passage describes the Great White Throne Judgment, where every person is judged based on their deeds recorded in the books, as well as whether their name is written in the Book of Life. Those not found in the Book of Life face eternal punishment (Revelation 20:15).
God’s knowledge and sovereign plan mean He already knows every person who will stand before this judgment. This prophecy is certain to be fulfilled.
The Great Multitude in Heaven Revelation 7:9 (ESV):
“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.”
This vision reveals the diversity of those who will be saved from every nation and background, united before God’s throne. Their salvation is evidenced by their purity (white robes) and victory (palm branches). This multitude represents those who have received salvation through faith in Jesus Christ (Revelation 7:14).
God knows each individual in this group, though He has not revealed their names to us (Luke 10:20).
The Bible makes it clear that our present life and choices reveal our destiny.Obedience and Faith: Salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, evidenced by repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and living a holy life (Ephesians 2:8-10; Acts 2:38; Galatians 5:22-25).Holding Fast to Grace: Perseverance in faith and obedience ensures we remain in God’s grace (Hebrews 3:14; Revelation 2:10).
If we reject salvation and die in that state, we will face judgment and eternal separation from God (Hebrews 10:26-27; Revelation 21:8).
Jeremiah 21:8 (ESV):
“And say to the people of the land: ‘Thus says the Lord: Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.’”
Deuteronomy 30:15 (ESV):
“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.”
God invites you to choose life eternal life in fellowship with Him.
Will you embrace salvation and life, or will you reject it and face judgment?
May the Lord bless us all.
As we have seen in previous chapters, after God created the world, everything He did afterward was essentially a process of restoration and maintenance—not the creation of something entirely new. The final step in God’s plan, however, will be a new creation. This is described in Scripture as a transformation, not a complete annihilation of the world. God will not destroy the earth and cast it into hell, as some mistakenly believe; rather, He will renew and perfect it, just as He will give us glorified, heavenly bodies.
If you haven’t read Part 1 and Part 2 yet, I recommend doing so before continuing:
[NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH (Part 1)]
[NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH (Part 2)]
The day we enter heaven, God will give us new, imperishable bodies, fashioned not from dust but from heavenly materials (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, ESV):
“So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body.”
Our current physical bodies will not be destroyed or discarded. Instead, they will be transformed and clothed with new, immortal bodies, perfectly suited for eternity in God’s presence.
1 Corinthians 15:51-55 (ESV) further emphasizes this:
“Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’ ‘O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?'”
Theologically, this teaches the doctrine of glorification, the final stage of salvation where believers are completely freed from sin and its effects, fully restored to the image of God (Romans 8:29).
The new heaven and new earth will be a transformed creation, not a complete replacement of the current one. Scripture reveals that it will be perfect, eternal, and filled with God’s glory (Isaiah 65:17, ESV):
“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.”
Our present universe, including stars, planets, and galaxies, will take on a new form and life, reflecting God’s renewed creation (Revelation 21:1).
The new Jerusalem, the heavenly city, will descend from heaven and serve as the center of the renewed world, inhabited only by God’s people (Revelation 21:2-3).
God Himself will dwell among His people, and humanity will see His face (Revelation 21:3, ESV):
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'”
Time as we know it will cease. Eternity will replace temporal existence, and believers will experience unending joy, peace, and fellowship with God.
Revelation 21 and 22 (ESV) describe key characteristics of the new heaven and new earth:
No sea (Rev. 21:1)
No tears or sorrow (Rev. 21:4)
No death or pain (Rev. 21:4)
No curse (Rev. 22:3)
No night (Rev. 22:5)
These characteristics reflect the fulfillment of God’s promise to restore all things (Acts 3:21, ESV):
“He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.”
Theologically, this underscores God’s ultimate justice and mercy: sin, death, and suffering will no longer have dominion, and creation itself will be renewed to reflect His holiness and glory.
Jesus warns that preparation must begin now. Those who live superficially or compromise with the world risk missing the coming kingdom (Matthew 24:44, ESV):
“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Salvation involves three steps:
Repentance – turning from sin completely (Acts 3:19, ESV).
Baptism – immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38, ESV).
Receiving the Holy Spirit – the gift of God’s presence and power (Acts 2:38, ESV).
Once these steps are completed, a believer is fully part of God’s kingdom, called to live a life of holiness, worship, and preparation for eternity.
Jesus assures us:
Revelation 22:12-14 (ESV):“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates.”
The ultimate reward is participation in God’s eternal kingdom—the new heaven and new earth—where God Himself will dwell with His people forever.
Beloved, preparation starts today. Don’t delay in responding to God’s call. Repent, be baptized, receive the Holy Spirit, and live faithfully, knowing that one day we will inherit a glorious, eternal world where we will enjoy God’s presence forever.
The Lord bless you. Please share this good news with others.
NEW HEAVENS AND A NEW EARTH (Part 2)
As we saw in Part 1, when God created the world, it experienced cycles of destruction and restoration. The current creation is still in a fallen state, awaiting a final judgment. Scripture tells us that this ultimate destruction will not be by water, as in Noah’s time, but by fire—a purifying judgment that will prepare the universe for its final renewal.
2 Peter 3:6-7 (ESV):“…by which the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.”
God’s purpose in this final act is not destruction for its own sake. After removing all wickedness, He will restore the earth to a state of glory, comparable to the original Eden. This restoration will make it ready for Jesus Christ to reign visibly on earth with His saints, as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, during the thousand-year reign described in Revelation.
During this millennial kingdom:
The world will be a place of peace, justice, and righteousness.
Human lifespans will increase dramatically, reminiscent of pre-Flood longevity, with people living hundreds of years. Even a person who reaches 100 years will be considered “young.”
Isaiah 65:20 (NIV):“Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; the one who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere child; the one who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed.”
People will engage in productive work—building houses, planting crops—without fear of theft or destruction.
Nature itself will be transformed: predatory animals will be peaceful, and children will safely interact with creatures that were once dangerous. (Isaiah 65:21-25)
This restoration is not just physical but moral and spiritual. Though wicked people will still exist, sin will not dominate because Satan will be bound:
Revelation 20:2-3 (NIV):“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time.”
During this reign, righteousness and holiness will characterize society. God’s saints will experience unprecedented peace, justice, and joy. This period is often called the Millennial Kingdom, a fulfillment of prophecies in both the Old and New Testaments, showing God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises and His plan to restore creation.
For an in-depth study on the thousand-year reign, visit >> https://wingulamashahidi.org/2019/05/30/utawala-wa-miaka-1000/
After the thousand years, Scripture says Satan will be briefly released to deceive the nations once more. Those who rebel will surround the camp of the saints, but God will intervene: fire will come down from heaven, and the enemies will be completely destroyed. Satan, along with the beast and the false prophet, will be cast into the lake of fire to face eternal judgment.
Revelation 20:7-10 (ESV):“And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of the sea. And they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city, but fire came down from heaven and consumed them. And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
This marks the completion of God’s plan to restore the world. What follows is the creation of the new heavens and a new earth, the eternal dwelling place for God’s people, where righteousness reigns and there is no more death, mourning, or pain.
2 Peter 3:13 (NIV):“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. Therefore, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with him.”
In Part 3, we will explore in detail how this new heavens and new earth will come to be and what life will be like for God’s people in eternity.
A New Heaven and a New Earth (Part 1)
Greetings in the mighty name above all names, the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I warmly welcome you to explore the words of life. Today, we will study the concept of a new heaven and a new earth—a topic central to God’s ultimate plan for creation.
Many people wonder: Where will this new heaven and new earth, described in Scripture, exist? Will it be in heaven or on earth? Will it be our current world restored, or a completely new creation? To answer this, we need to trace the history of the earth and God’s plan for humanity.
Before discussing the new heaven and new earth, it is important to understand the original creation. The Bible tells us:
Genesis 1:1, ESV) “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
Genesis 1:1, ESV)
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
The term heavens refers to the entire sky and universe—the planets, stars, and all visible space. The word earth refers to the physical world, inhabited by humans and other creatures.
When God first created the earth, it was perfect and fully functional. However, at some point, it became formless and void, as Scripture describes:
Genesis 1:2, ESV) “The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
Genesis 1:2, ESV)
“The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
Theologically, this verse shows us that God’s creation was originally perfect, but due to spiritual rebellion (likely the fall of Satan and his angels before humanity was created), chaos entered the world. God did not create the world incomplete or imperfect. As Isaiah reminds us:
Isaiah 45:18, ESV) “For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!): ‘I am the Lord, and there is no other.’”
Isaiah 45:18, ESV)
“For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!): ‘I am the Lord, and there is no other.’”
This teaches an important theological principle: God is a God of order, not chaos. Creation reflects His glory, and He does not leave His work unfinished.
When God created humans, He restored the earth to a habitable state. He created light, separated the seas from the land, and brought forth vegetation and life (Genesis 1). But when Adam sinned, sin entered the world, bringing spiritual and physical corruption. Humanity’s rebellion continued to grow, culminating in God’s judgment during Noah’s time:
(Genesis 6:5-6, ESV) “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.”
(Genesis 6:5-6, ESV)
“The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.”
This led to the flood, which destroyed all life except for Noah and his family (eight people). The earth was again rendered formless, but God’s covenant with Noah assured that He would never again destroy the earth by flood (Genesis 9:11).
After the flood, God did not fully restore creation to its original state. The earth’s climate, human lifespans, and the ecological balance changed. For example, human longevity decreased drastically from thousands of years to about 120 years (Genesis 6:3).
Scripture teaches that the world will face ultimate judgment again—not by water, but by fire, in preparation for the new heaven and new earth:
2 Peter 3:7, ESV “But the heavens and the earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.”
2 Peter 3:7, ESV
“But the heavens and the earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.”
Isaiah 13:9, ESV “See, the day of the Lord is coming, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger, to make the earth desolate and destroy the sinners within it.”
Isaiah 13:9, ESV
“See, the day of the Lord is coming, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger, to make the earth desolate and destroy the sinners within it.”
Revelation 16:17-18, ESV “The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ And there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, and a great earthquake such as there had never been since man was on the earth so mighty an earthquake and so great.
Revelation 16:17-18, ESV
“The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ And there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, and a great earthquake such as there had never been since man was on the earth so mighty an earthquake and so great.
Theologically, this teaches God’s justice and holiness: the sinfulness of humanity cannot coexist with the perfect holiness of God forever. The fire symbolizes purification and the removal of all that is corrupt. Only after this judgment can the creation of a new heaven and new earth take place.
God’s Creation is Perfect: God does not create half-finished works. The earth was originally perfect, and its fall was due to spiritual rebellion.
Sin Corrupts Creation: Human sin (and spiritual rebellion before humans) corrupted God’s creation, making judgment necessary.
God’s Covenant is Faithful: Even after judgment, God preserves a remnant (Noah’s family) and promises ultimate restoration.
Final Judgment Precedes Restoration: The new heaven and new earth will only come after the ultimate purification of the current creation.
Hope in Christ: Believers can look forward to being part of this new creation, which will be free from sin, death, and suffering.
Understanding this history gives context to God’s plan for our world and helps us anticipate the ultimate restoration of all things.
We will continue in Part 2 of New Heaven and New Earth, where we will explore the new creation itself and what it will look like.
KEEP A RECORD OF WHAT THE LORD DOES—IT WILL HELP YOU IN THE FUTURE
In the name of our Lord Jesus, be blessed.
It is vitally important to remember the works of the Lord in your life. These memories will strengthen you in times of trial, guide your decisions, and even serve as testimony for others. Scripture often calls God’s people to “remember the deeds of the Lord” (Psalm 105:5, ESV). Every miraculous act the Lord performs, every answered prayer, and every divine intervention should be preserved—either in writing, testimony, or in the heart. In times of difficulty, when our strength fails, these memories remind us that God is faithful and that He will deliver us again.
Consider David facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32–37, ESV). His victory did not come from his anointing, his youth, or dreams, but from his memories of God’s faithfulness:
1 Samuel 17:36, ESV “Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.”
1 Samuel 17:36, ESV
“Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.”
David remembered how God had delivered him from lions and bears while he protected his father’s sheep. These past victories gave him courage to confront Goliath.
Theological insight: Memory in the biblical sense is not just recollection; it is an active trust in God’s past faithfulness that fuels present faith. David’s testimony of God’s past deliverances became his spiritual weapon. Without these memories, his confidence would have been merely human courage, vulnerable to fear.
Another profound example of spiritual memory is Mary, the mother of Jesus. She treasured all the events surrounding Jesus’ birth in her heart (Luke 2:19, ESV).
“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.”
Mary’s careful reflection preserved the truth of the Incarnation for future generations. The Gospels of Luke and Matthew rely heavily on her testimony. Even the accounts of the shepherds (Luke 2:8–20, ESV) were preserved because Mary remembered them and shared them with others.
Theological insight: Mary’s example demonstrates the biblical principle of spiritual contemplation and memory. By treasuring God’s works, she became a conduit through which God’s story could reach the world. This is consistent with the broader biblical theme: God’s people are called to “remember the works of the Lord” (Psalm 77:11, ESV) and to meditate on them continually.
We are called to follow David and Mary’s example:
Record God’s deeds in your life. Write down answered prayers, miracles, and moments of guidance.
Reflect on them regularly. Spiritual memory strengthens faith (Deuteronomy 8:2–3, ESV).
Share them with others. Testimonies encourage the faith of the next generation (Psalm 78:4–7, ESV).
Proverbs 13:22 (ESV) reminds us:
“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.”
Your spiritual inheritance is more than wealth—it is the testimony of God’s faithfulness. Preserving memories of God’s work equips you for trials and provides a spiritual inheritance for your children and future generations.
Keep a journal of God’s faithfulness.
Reflect weekly on moments of answered prayer or protection.
Teach your children and community about God’s past deeds.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring these memories to mind during trials.
Conclusion:Remembering and treasuring God’s works is not merely sentimentality—it is a spiritual discipline that strengthens faith, equips for battle, and blesses generations. As David triumphed over Goliath through memory and faith, and Mary preserved the story of the Savior, so should we treasure God’s deeds in our hearts.
May the Lord bless you and guide you as you faithfully remember His works and share His goodness with others.
Understanding the Power of Intimacy in RevelationScripture Reference: Matthew 24 (NKJV)
Throughout Jesus’ earthly ministry, His disciples often heard Him teach profound truths sometimes through parables, sometimes in direct instruction. On several occasions, they asked for clarification immediately. But there were critical moments when they chose to wait and approach Jesus in private.
This deliberate move toward intimate conversation wasn’t out of fear, but out of reverence and a desire for deeper understanding especially on matters related to the end of the age.
The disciples recognized that some spiritual truths require not just hearing but contemplation, stillness, and undivided attention. They understood that some answers could only be received in moments of quiet communion with the Lord, away from the distractions of the crowd (Mark 4:34, Luke 9:18).
Likewise, for believers today, seeking the Lord in solitude is key to understanding divine mysteries. God still speaks but often in the “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12), not in the chaos of daily noise.
“Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple.And Jesus said to them, ‘Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.’Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying,‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’”(Matthew 24:1–3, NKJV)
In this passage, the disciples asked three critical eschatological (end-times) questions:
When will these things happen?
What will be the sign of Your coming?
What will be the sign of the end of the age?
Each of these questions relates to the prophetic unfolding of God’s redemptive plan His second coming, judgment, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.
Let’s explore each one, theologically and scripturally.
(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 36–44)
This question was about timing the human desire to pinpoint when Jesus would return and God’s plan would be completed. Jesus responded:
“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.”(Matthew 24:36, NKJV)
Key Theological Truth:Even Jesus, in His incarnate state, voluntarily limited His divine knowledge (Philippians 2:6–8) to demonstrate complete submission to the Father. This emphasizes that no human or angelic being has been given the calendar date of Christ’s return.
Instead of focusing on when, Jesus called them to watchfulness and readiness:
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”(Matthew 24:44, NKJV)
Practical Application:The Church is called to live in a state of readiness, not complacency knowing that the day of the Lord will come “as a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).
(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 4–28)
Jesus gave a detailed list of events that would characterize the season of His return, though not the exact time.
“Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name… and you will hear of wars and rumors of wars… and there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.”(Matthew 24:4–7, NKJV)
Key Theological Insight:These signs align with birth pains (Romans 8:22) an escalation of chaos as creation groans under the weight of sin. Yet, they are not to produce fear but awareness.
Notably, false prophets, increasing lawlessness, persecution of the saints, and the global preaching of the Gospel are all listed as indicators (Matthew 24:11–14).
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”(Matthew 24:14, NKJV)
Fulfillment in Our Time:Most of these signs are visible today: global evangelism, geopolitical unrest, moral decline, pandemics (e.g., COVID-19), and rising deception in the church all pointing to the nearness of Christ.
(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 29–31)
This refers to the final consummation of history the moment when time, as we know it, ends, and God’s eternal kingdom is established.
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light… Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven… and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”(Matthew 24:29–30, NKJV)
Key Eschatological Truths:
Jesus will return visibly, bodily, and gloriously (Acts 1:11, Revelation 1:7).
Cosmic disturbances will accompany His coming fulfilling prophecies from Joel 2:31, Isaiah 13:10.
The final judgment will follow (Matthew 25:31–46), separating the righteous from the wicked.
Judgment Day will be fearful for the unprepared (Revelation 6:15–17), but glorious for those in Christ (Titus 2:13).
We live in a generation that has seen nearly all prophetic signs fulfilled. That means the return of Christ is imminent it could happen at any moment.
The question is not “When?” but rather “Are you ready?”
Jesus warned that His coming would be sudden and unexpected. Two will be in the field one taken, one left (Matthew 24:40–41). There will be no warning, no last-minute signs, no dramatic pause.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”(Matthew 24:42, NKJV)
Repent and believe the Gospel (Mark 1:15)
Receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (John 1:12)
Be baptized in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
Walk in holiness and readiness, keeping your lamp burning (Matthew 25:1–13)
Need Prayer or Baptism?If you’re ready to surrender your life to Christ, or if you need help being baptized, please call or message us at 0693036618. We would be honored to pray with you and help you take the next step in your faith.
The Lord bless you.
Proverbs 22:1 (NKJV)“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.”
In a world where wealth and material success are often seen as ultimate goals, Scripture offers a different standard: a good name a reputation of integrity, godliness, and moral uprightness is of greater value than financial gain. God’s Word calls us to prioritize character over possessions because our name reflects who we are before both God and man.
Biblically, a good name refers to a positive reputation rooted in righteousness and consistent moral conduct. It is not just what people think of us, but what we really are when tested by the standards of God’s holiness.
Ecclesiastes 7:1 (NIV):“A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.”
In ancient Israel, perfume was extremely valuable. Comparing a good name to fine perfume illustrates its preciousness and influence just as perfume spreads fragrance, a good name spreads favor and trust.
The Bible does not condemn wealth itself. In fact, God blesses some with wealth (e.g., Abraham, Job, Solomon). The problem lies in prioritizing wealth over righteousness.
1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV):“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
It is not money that is evil, but the love of it when it leads one to compromise values, sin, or damage their witness.
Some people choose jobs (e.g., bars, casinos, dishonest businesses) just because of the financial return.
Even believers may abandon their calling such as leaving worship ministry to pursue secular fame all for fast money.
This reflects misplaced priorities and damages not just one’s reputation but also their witness for Christ.
Matthew 16:26 (NIV):“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”
Jesus Himself grew in favor with both God and man a testimony of His sinless character and obedience.
Luke 2:52 (NIV):“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
This shows us the model: growing in moral, spiritual, and relational favor should be the goal of every believer.
God often chooses people with a good name for special assignments:
Cornelius: Though a Gentile, he was “respected by all the Jewish people” God sent Peter to preach the Gospel to him.
Acts 10:22 (NIV):“The men replied, ‘We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people.’”
Ananias: Described as a devout man with a good reputation.
Acts 22:12 (NIV):“A man named Ananias came to see me. He was a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there.”
Stephen: Chosen for leadership in the early church due to his good character.
Acts 6:3 (NIV):“Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.”
People are drawn to those who live with integrity. A good reputation opens doors of influence for ministry, business, and relationships.
Matthew 5:16 (NIV):“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This means our actions and reputation should point people to God.
Not every service should be charged for generosity builds goodwill and reflects God’s love.
Churches should avoid entangling themselves in politics for gain — this taints their identity and spiritual influence.
Believers should aim to be known for their compassion, honesty, and faithfulness, not just their achievements.
We live in a culture that glorifies wealth, but as believers, we are called to live for something greater: a testimony that honors God. A good name may not fill your bank account, but it fills your life with eternal value.
Proverbs 10:7 (NIV):“The name of the righteous is used in blessings, but the name of the wicked will rot.”
Let us seek to be known as faithful servants of God, like Jesus, Cornelius, Ananias, and Stephen. In doing so, we gain favor not only with people but with God Himself.
May the Lord bless you.Please share this message with others.
Answer: The common idea that heaven is a place where we will be singing non-stop forever is a misunderstanding of what the Bible actually teaches. While worship including singing will certainly be part of our heavenly experience, Scripture paints a much richer and fuller picture of eternal life with God.
Jesus Himself spoke clearly about heaven not just as a place of praise, but as a home a place being prepared for those who love Him.
John 14:1–3 (NIV)
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
Jesus refers to His Father’s house as having many rooms, emphasizing that heaven is a vast, welcoming, and purposeful place not a stagnant or monotonous one. The Greek word translated “rooms” (μονή, monē) implies a dwelling place or abode. This suggests activity, relationship, and meaningful existence not just singing.
What Will We Do in Heaven? According to Scripture, those in heaven will:
“The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him.”
Worship in heaven includes service. This could mean a variety of joyful tasks and roles work without toil or frustration.
“And they will reign for ever and ever.” (Rev. 22:5)
Reigning implies responsibility, authority, and purpose. Heaven is not an idle eternity but one filled with meaning and divine purpose.
“Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
Heaven will be a place of ever-deepening knowledge of God, unending fellowship with the saints, and perfect understanding.
(Psalm 16:11) “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
Yes, singing and worship will certainly be part of heaven, as seen in Revelation 5:11-13, where multitudes of angels and believers praise the Lamb. But this is not the only thing we’ll do.
Heaven: Beyond Human Imagination Paul explains how heaven surpasses anything we can currently comprehend:
1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)
“However, as it is written: ‘What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived’ the things God has prepared for those who love him.”
The joys of heaven will far exceed anything experienced on earth. If even in this broken world we find joy in relationships, creativity, and worship how much more abundant will life be in God’s perfected kingdom?
How Do We Get to Heaven? There is only one way to enter this eternal home: through faith in Jesus Christ.
John 14:6 (NIV)
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
The path begins when we believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior, repent of our sins, are baptized according to the Scriptures (Acts 2:38), and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This marks the beginning of our journey toward the eternal kingdom.
Acts 2:38 (NIV)
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
Maranatha.