Title September 2021

THE GREAT IMPORTANCE OF GIVING TO THE LORD
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Let us take a moment to explore a spiritual principle that is often misunderstood and sometimes overlooked—the importance of giving in the life of a believer. This is not just about money; it’s about understanding the heart of God, the mission of Christ, and our calling as disciples.

1. The Spiritual Battle Over Giving

One of the areas the enemy fiercely attacks is the spirit of generosity. Satan understands that giving is both a spiritual weapon and a blessing channel. He does not want anyone—believers or non-believers—to develop a generous heart.

Even non-believers, when they give, can experience God’s principles in action.

Proverbs 11:25 (NIV) says,

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Satan resists this truth by promoting selfishness, materialism, and fear of lack—he wants people to be closed-hearted, always thinking they don’t have enough to give.

2. Giving Reflects the Nature of God

God is the ultimate Giver. The foundation of the Gospel is giving.
John 3:16 (NIV) says,

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

When we give, we reflect the very nature of God. It becomes an act of worship, an expression of love, and a tangible sign that we trust God as our provider.

3. Christ Identifies with the Needy

Jesus made it clear that what we do (or don’t do) for others, we do (or don’t do) for Him.
In Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV), Jesus says:

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat… I was a stranger and you invited me in… I was in prison and you came to visit me… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Notice that Jesus refers to the “least of these brothers and sisters of mine.” He is speaking about fellow believers, especially those who suffer for their faith or are in difficult circumstances. These are not just anyone in need, but those in whom Christ dwells by His Spirit.

4. Even Jesus “Needs” Today

This is a theological mystery but a biblical reality: although Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 1:3), He still experiences suffering through His body—the Church.

Acts 9:4-5 (NIV) recounts Saul’s encounter with Christ:

“Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”

Even though Saul was persecuting Christians, Jesus took it personally. In the same way, when we ignore or help a suffering believer, Jesus sees it as done to Him.

5. Prosperity Doesn’t Eliminate Trials

There’s a popular teaching today that says if you are saved, you will never be poor, sick, or suffer. But this contradicts the life of Jesus and His apostles.
2 Corinthians 6:4-5 (NIV) says:

“…as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger.”

God allows seasons of need not because He is unjust, but to test faith, refine character, and provide opportunities for others to bless and be blessed.

6. Giving Invites Blessing

Helping those in need—especially fellow believers—is a direct investment in God’s kingdom. Jesus said in Mark 9:41 (NIV):

“Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.”

Even the smallest act of kindness done in Christ’s name carries eternal significance. God records and rewards every act of generosity done with the right heart.

7. Giving Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Generosity isn’t reserved for the rich, the clergy, or church elders. It is a calling for all believers.
Galatians 6:10 (NIV) says:

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

This includes financial help, hospitality, encouragement, prayer, and practical support.

Conclusion: Give with Purpose and Faith

God doesn’t need our money—He owns everything. But He allows us to partner with Him through giving so that our hearts can grow in love, and so that His people can be supported and strengthened.

When we give to fellow believers in need, we are giving to Christ Himself.

So don’t withhold your hand. Don’t ignore the prompting to help. Whether it’s a financial offering, a visit to someone in prison, food for the hungry, or even just a word of encouragement—do it as unto the Lord.

And remember Jesus’ words:

Acts 20:35 (NIV)

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Maranatha – The Lord is coming soon.
Let us be found faithful, loving, and generous.

Please share this message with others—it might be the encouragement they need today.

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(Romans 1:14)

Key Scripture:

“I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome.”
— Romans 1:14–15 (NIV)

Understanding Paul’s Statement

When Paul says he is “obligated,” the original Greek word used is opheilētēs, which means “a debtor” or someone who owes a debt. Paul isn’t speaking about financial debt, but a spiritual one. He felt deeply responsible for sharing the Gospel with everyone because of the grace he had received from Christ.

Who Are the Greeks and Non-Greeks?

In Paul’s cultural context:

• Greeks were often synonymous with the educated, cultured, and philosophical. Greece was the hub of classical knowledge, philosophy, and logic.
• Non-Greeks (often translated as “barbarians”) were considered outsiders to Greek culture—those who lacked formal education or sophistication.

The same applies to the wise and the foolish—categories that reflect levels of intellectual receptiveness.

“For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:21 (NIV)

Paul knew that regardless of their education or background, all people needed the Gospel.

Theological Insight: Universal Scope of the Gospel

The Gospel transcends human boundaries—ethnic, intellectual, or social. Paul’s theology affirms:

• All have sinned: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
• Christ died for all: “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.” (1 Thessalonians 5:10).
• All must hear: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? … And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” (Romans 10:14).

Paul saw himself as a vessel through which this message should be delivered—urgently and inclusively.

Greeks Seek Wisdom, Jews Seek Signs

Paul often encountered two types of responses:

“Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:22–23 (NIV)

Jews tended to require miraculous signs, while Greeks preferred rational argument and intellectual reasoning. Paul tailored his approach accordingly:

• With Jews: He often referenced Scripture and miracles.
• With Greeks: He used philosophical reasoning and logical appeals.

This principle is seen clearly in Acts 17.

Paul in Athens – An Example of Contextual Evangelism

In Acts 17:16–34, Paul addressed the philosophers of Athens:

• He observed an altar inscribed “To an Unknown God” (v.23).
• He used this as a bridge to reveal the true God.
• He quoted their poets: “For in him we live and move and have our being.” (v.28)

This shows Paul’s missional adaptability—he neither compromised the truth nor ignored the context.

“I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
— 1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV)

What Does This Teach Us Today?

Like Paul, we are also debtors to all people. We have a responsibility to:

• Share Christ with both the educated and the uneducated,
• Reach both the powerful and the humble,
• Speak wisely to those who value reason,
• Demonstrate grace to those seeking signs or emotional connection.

Sometimes, the reason people don’t respond is not their resistance—but our failure to approach them wisely.

We must pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to speak in ways that touch each person’s heart and mind.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
— James 1:5 (NIV)

Conclusion: The Mission Is for Everyone

Paul’s approach teaches us:

• To recognize that the Gospel is for all, not just a chosen few.
• To adapt wisely without diluting the message.
• To let love and urgency fuel our evangelism.

May we, like Paul, be eager to share the Gospel with all kinds of people, being all things to all people, so that some might be saved.

Maranatha – The Lord is coming soon!

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In Philippians 3:1–3 (NKJV), the Apostle Paul writes:

“Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe. Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation! For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.”

In this passage, Paul is warning the believers in Philippi   primarily Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians   about a group known as the Judaizers. These were Jews who taught that in order to be truly saved, Gentile Christians needed to obey the Law of Moses, including physical circumcision. Paul refers to their insistence on circumcision as “mutilation” (Greek: katatomē)   a sharp rebuke implying that this ritual had become nothing more than meaningless cutting of the flesh when separated from genuine faith.

Old Testament Background: The Covenant of Circumcision

Under the Old Covenant, circumcision was commanded by God as a physical sign of His covenant with Abraham and his descendants:

Genesis 17:10–11 (NKJV)
“This is My covenant which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: Every male child among you shall be circumcised; and you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between Me and you.”

This practice became a cornerstone of Jewish identity and religious life. However, even in the Old Testament, God hinted that true circumcision was spiritual:

Deuteronomy 10:16 (NKJV)
“Therefore circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be stiff-necked no longer.”

Jeremiah 4:4 (NKJV)
“Circumcise yourselves to the Lord, and take away the foreskins of your hearts…”

New Covenant Fulfillment: Circumcision of the Heart

With the coming of Christ, the requirement for physical circumcision was fulfilled and replaced by spiritual transformation through the Holy Spirit. Paul explains that those who are truly God’s people are not marked by external rituals but by inward change:

Romans 2:28–29 (NKJV)
“For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter…”

This inner transformation is what the Bible calls being “born again”  a spiritual rebirth through faith in Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

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

Titus 3:5 (NKJV)
“…according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”

Paul’s Strong Opposition to Legalism

Paul continually warned that relying on the flesh   including rituals like circumcision   undermines the gospel of grace. Salvation is by faith alone in Christ, not by works of the law:

Galatians 5:2–4 (NKJV)
“Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing… You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.”

Galatians 6:15 (NKJV)
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation.”

In other words, what matters is not whether someone is circumcised in the body, but whether they have been made new by the Holy Spirit.

True Christianity: Life in the Spirit

Those who belong to Christ are recognized not by outward signs, but by the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives:

Romans 8:9 (NKJV)
“But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.”

Therefore, spiritual circumcision   the cutting away of sin and the old nature is done by the Holy Spirit, not by human hands:

Colossians 2:11–12 (NKJV)
“In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh… buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith…”

Conclusion: Be Born Again

Jesus taught that unless a person is born again, they cannot enter the Kingdom of God. This involves:

1. Believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

2. Repenting of sin.

3. Being baptized in water (by immersion) in Jesus’ name.

4. Receiving the Holy Spirit, who renews the heart and seals the believer as God’s child.

This is the spiritual circumcision that God accepts.

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!
(Our Lord comes!)

Feel free to share this message of truth with others so they too may understand the power of the new birth through Christ.

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What does it mean to “pray in the spirit, and also pray with the understanding”?

Question: What did Paul mean when he said, “I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding”?

1 Corinthians 14:14-15 (NKJV):

14 – “For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
15 – What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.”

Answer:

In 1 Corinthians 14, the Apostle Paul addresses confusion in the early Christian church regarding the use of spiritual gifts, especially the gift of speaking in tongues. This confusion has persisted in many church communities to this day, particularly surrounding the nature and purpose of tongues and prophecy.

To understand what Paul meant, it’s important to first grasp the basic function of spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts, including tongues, are given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:7). The gift of tongues, in particular, serves multiple purposes, such as:

• Edification of the individual believer – when one prays in tongues, their spirit is built up and strengthened (1 Corinthians 14:4).
• Evangelism and the spread of the gospel – in some cases, tongues can be a sign to unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22).
• Edification of the church – when interpreted, tongues can benefit the congregation by bringing understanding and spiritual growth (1 Corinthians 14:5, 13).

The Nature of Tongues

The gift of tongues is divided into two categories:

1. Human languages – These are known languages, like Swahili, Maasai, or others, but they can be spoken by the Holy Spirit in situations where the speaker does not understand them (Acts 2:4-11, where the apostles spoke in various languages that were understood by people from different regions).
2. Angelical or spiritual languages – These are languages not known by human beings and are used for direct communication with God. Paul alludes to this in 1 Corinthians 13:1, where he says, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels…”

Purpose of Tongues

The primary purpose of speaking in tongues is to communicate with God in the spirit. This is a personal prayer language that is not meant to be understood by others unless it is interpreted.

1 Corinthians 14:2 says, “For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.”

However, tongues can also serve as a sign to the unbelievers.

In 1 Corinthians 14:22, Paul writes:
“Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is not for unbelievers but for those who believe.” The use of tongues in this way is meant to demonstrate the power of God to those who do not yet believe, pointing them toward salvation.

Paul’s Point in 1 Corinthians 14:14-15

Paul’s statement, “I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding,” speaks to the balance between the two types of prayer:

• Prayer in the Spirit – Praying in tongues allows the believer to communicate directly with God. The spirit prays, but the understanding (or intellect) does not grasp the content of the prayer. This can be edifying for the individual, but without interpretation, it doesn’t build up the congregation (1 Corinthians 14:4).
• Prayer with understanding – This refers to praying in the known language, where both the speaker and the listeners understand what is being prayed. This type of prayer is beneficial for corporate worship, as it can encourage and instruct others in the faith.

Paul’s approach is not to downplay the importance of tongues but to emphasize that understanding should not be neglected. In a corporate setting, tongues should always be accompanied by interpretation, so that the church can be edified.

The Problem in the Church

In 1 Corinthians 14:6-12, Paul addresses the confusion caused by speaking in tongues without interpretation. He explains that if a person speaks in tongues without offering an interpretation, they are only speaking to themselves and God, not edifying others. He likens it to speaking a foreign language in a place where no one understands it— it would be unhelpful to the listeners (1 Corinthians 14:11).

Paul then urges those who speak in tongues to pray that they may also interpret (1 Corinthians 14:13). Without interpretation, the tongues are only beneficial for the speaker, not the congregation.

The Gift of Interpretation

The gift of tongues is complemented by the gift of interpretation of tongues, which allows the message spoken in tongues to be understood by others. 1 Corinthians 12:10 lists the gift of interpretation as a spiritual gift given by the Holy Spirit. Paul encourages believers to desire the gift of prophecy and interpretation, as prophecy edifies the church in a way that tongues alone cannot (1 Corinthians 14:5).

Paul’s Conclusion

Paul’s conclusion in

1 Corinthians 14:19 is clear:
“Yet in the church, I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.”

Here, Paul highlights the importance of speaking in a way that benefits the body of Christ as a whole, particularly through understanding, teaching, and prophecy.

Praying in the Spirit and with Understanding

Paul’s teaching is that both forms of prayer (in the spirit and with understanding) should be used appropriately. In private, praying in the spirit (in tongues) is a powerful means of personal edification, as the Holy Spirit intercedes for us (Romans 8:26-27). But in public worship, praying with understanding (in a known language) is essential for the edification of others, so they can join in prayer and worship.

Conclusion: A Balanced Use of Gifts

As we see from 1 Corinthians 14:26-33, spiritual gifts are meant to be used in an orderly and edifying manner within the church. 1 Corinthians 14:33 states, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” Therefore, when we speak in tongues, we must be mindful of how it affects others, ensuring that it builds up the body of Christ and does not cause disorder.

Key Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:7 – Spiritual gifts are for the edification of the church.
• 1 Corinthians 14:2 – Tongues are for personal communication with God.
• 1 Corinthians 14:22 – Tongues are a sign for unbelievers.
• 1 Corinthians 14:5, 13 – Tongues should be interpreted for the edification of the church.
• Romans 8:26-27 – The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us when we don’t know how to pray.
• 1 Corinthians 14:19 – The importance of praying with understanding in church.

God bless you.

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The question arises: Can God deceive a person? When reading Ezekiel 14:9, it seems like God might deceive a prophet. But is that really the case?

Let’s start by looking at the verse:

Ezekiel 14:9

(NKJV): “If a prophet is deceived and speaks a word, I the Lord have deceived that prophet. I will stretch out My hand against him and destroy him from among My people Israel.”

At first glance, this might suggest that God deceives people. However, we must understand that God is holy and cannot lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18). God does not directly deceive anyone. Rather, what we see here is that God allows a spirit of deception to deceive someone, especially when they have already turned away from the truth and chosen to follow evil. This is explained more clearly in 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12.

God’s Permission for 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.”

In these verses, we see that God permits a “powerful delusion” to come over those who refuse to love the truth. This is a judgment for their refusal to accept the truth of God’s Word. God does not deceive them Himself, but allows them to be deceived as a consequence of their choices.

The Example of King Ahab

Let’s dive into an example from the Bible to further understand this concept—King Ahab in 1 Kings 22. Ahab had rejected God, worshiped idols, and refused to listen to the true prophets. Yet, when he needed guidance for a battle, he still consulted the prophet Micaiah.

1 Kings 22:19-23 (NIV):

“Micaiah continued, ‘Therefore hear the word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on His throne with all the host of heaven standing around Him, on His right and on His left. And the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his death there?’ One suggested this, and another that. Finally, a spirit came forward, stood before the Lord, and said, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘By what means?’ the Lord asked. ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets,’ he said. ‘You will succeed in enticing him,’ said the Lord. ‘Go and do it.’ So now the Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours. The Lord has decreed disaster for you.’”

In this case, God did not directly deceive Ahab. Instead, God permitted a lying spirit to deceive Ahab’s prophets, leading him to his death in battle. The deception was a consequence of Ahab’s choice to forsake God and turn to idols. Ahab had already hardened his heart, so God allowed the lying spirit to mislead him.

Theological Insight:

In theological terms, this act of allowing a spirit of deception is part of God’s judicial hardening. When people persist in rejecting the truth of God, He may allow them to be deceived. This concept is supported by several passages in the Bible, including Romans 1:24-28, where God gives people over to their sinful desires as a consequence of their rebellion.

Romans 1:24-28 (NIV):

“Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity… They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator… Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts…”

This “giving over” is not God actively deceiving, but allowing people to pursue the consequences of their choices. It’s a sign of God’s judgment on those who refuse to turn to Him.

Ezekiel 14:9 in Context

When Ezekiel 14:9 says, “I have deceived that prophet”, it’s important to understand the context. This isn’t God lying to the prophet, but rather God allowing a spirit of deception to enter the prophet, because the prophet had turned away from the truth. If a prophet rejects God’s Word, God can allow him to be deceived by false spirits.

In other words, it’s not a direct act of deception by God but a permissive action—allowing a consequence for the prophet’s rebellion.

Practical Application:

What does this mean for us today? The Bible warns us to be careful about how we live our lives and how we approach God. If we persist in sin, idolatry, or living a life of rebellion against God, we open ourselves up to deception. We must never treat God like a problem solver or a fortune teller to simply give us answers while continuing in sin. God desires genuine repentance and submission to His will.

Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV):

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

If we approach God with hearts that still love sin and refuse to repent, we risk being led astray by a spirit of deception, just as Ahab was.

The Warning in Ezekiel 14

Ezekiel 14:1-5 (NIV):

“Some of the elders of Israel came to me and sat down in front of me. Then the word of the Lord came to me: ‘Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces. Should I let them inquire of me at all? Therefore speak to them and tell them, This is what the Sovereign Lord says: When any of the Israelites set up idols in their hearts and put a wicked stumbling block before their faces and then go to a prophet, I the Lord will answer them myself in keeping with their great idolatry.’”

Here, God warns that idolatry and sin can lead to deception. If we hold on to idols in our hearts and still seek God’s answers while living in sin, we are opening ourselves up to deception. God will not answer us the way we expect, but will allow us to experience the consequences of our choices.

Final Thought:

If you haven’t yet accepted Christ, remember that He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). There is no other way to come to the Father except through Him. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus, repentance, and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38). The Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).

Maranatha! (The Lord is coming!)

Please share this message with others to spread the Good News.

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Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome as we dive into the study of God’s Word. The Scriptures say:

Ezekiel 14:13-14 (NKJV):
“Son of man, when a land sins against Me by persistent unfaithfulness, I will stretch out My hand against it; I will cut off its supply of bread, send famine on it, and cut off man and beast from it. Even if these three men Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,”

says the Lord God.

This passage raises an important question: Why does God mention only these three menNoah, Daniel, and Job? Does this mean they were the only ones righteous enough among all the prophets and saints recorded in the Old Testament?

The answer is nuanced. While many biblical saints walked faithfully and pleased God (Hebrews 11 recounts many), these three men stand out because of their unique intercessory righteousness and steadfast faithfulness in times of judgment and national crisis.

Key Theological Insights:

1. Intercessory Righteousness:

2. Ezekiel 14:20 adds,
   “Though Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it, as I live,” declares the Lord God, “they would deliver neither sons nor daughters; they would only save themselves by their righteousness.”

3. (ESV)
   This shows these men’s righteousness was so profound that it had a protective effect—not only on themselves but also extended to their families and communities. Their faithfulness was not merely personal but intercessory.

4. Noah as a Type of the Righteous Remnant and Savior:
   Noah’s righteousness (Genesis 6:9, KJV: “Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”) distinguished him in a corrupt world. God commanded him to build the ark not just to save himself but to preserve his entire household (Hebrews 11:7, NIV). This portrays the principle of one righteous person being an instrument of God’s mercy for many.

5. Job’s Faithfulness Amid Suffering and His Role as Intercessor:
   Job consistently prayed for his children (Job 1:5, NIV: “Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, ‘Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.’ This was Job’s regular custom.”). His concern for his family’s spiritual well-being highlights his intercessory heart, a key trait recognized by God.

6. Daniel’s Prayerful Advocacy for His People:
   Daniel’s earnest prayers for Israel while in exile (Daniel 9:3-19, NASB) demonstrate his commitment to the spiritual restoration of his nation. The angel Gabriel’s words in Daniel 9:23 (NIV), “You are highly esteemed… so consider the matter and understand the vision,” 

7. indicate Daniel’s unique standing before God due to his faithful intercession.

What Can We Learn?

The common thread among Noah, Job, and Daniel is their compassionate concern for others. They didn’t seek salvation for themselves alone they interceded for their families, communities, and people. Their faith was active, expressing itself in intercession, obedience, and steadfastness even when those around them were rebellious.

Today, this challenges us as believers: salvation is personal, but our faith must also move us to care deeply for others family, friends, and even our broader communities. We are called to be intercessors and witnesses, bringing others to the mercy of God just as these men did.

If you have received Christ, ask yourself: Do you carry the burden of others’ souls? Are you praying for those yet to know Jesus? True Christian love involves not only securing our own salvation but laboring in prayer and action for others.

May God grant us grace to live like Noah, Job, and Daniel faithful, interceding, and wholly devoted to Him.

Maranatha.

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Understanding What Truly Provokes God’s Anger

Many people assume that God’s wrath is primarily directed toward unbelievers those who have rejected Him or those who live in open rebellion without acknowledging Jesus Christ as Savior. While the Scriptures affirm that the unrighteous will face judgment (see Romans 1:18, ESV: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men…”), that’s not the full picture.

A deeper and often overlooked truth is that God’s greatest grief and yes, His fiercest anger is kindled by sin among His own people: those who claim to know Him, yet continue in disobedience.

1. The Wounds of Betrayal Are Deeper Than Rejection

When someone you don’t know insults or betrays you, the pain is real but bearable. But when someone close a spouse, friend, or child hurts you, the wound cuts much deeper. The same is true in God’s heart.

Amos 3:2 (NIV)
“You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins.”

God disciplines His own more strictly because of the covenant relationship He has with them. He expects more from those who have received the light of His truth.

2. Sin in the Church Grieves God More Than Sin in the World

Those in relationship with God Christians who are saved bring joy to His heart. But when they live in sin, they also grieve Him more deeply than the wicked who never knew Him. Jesus said:

Luke 12:47-48 (NKJV)
“And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes… For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required…”

This is not just about punishment, but about responsibility. The more truth and grace we’ve received, the more accountable we are before God.

3. Occasional Sin Is Not Innocent in God’s Eyes

Many Christians deceive themselves by comparing their “occasional” sins to the persistent wickedness of unbelievers. But the Bible teaches that any intentional sin is rebellion especially when committed by someone who knows the truth.

Hebrews 10:26-27 (NIV)
“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment…”

A Christian who commits adultery “just once a year” may feel morally superior to a prostitute who sins daily. But God is more grieved by the one who sins against the light.

2 Peter 2:21 (ESV)
“For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them.”

4. God Desires Holiness from His People

God does not call us to blend in with the world. He calls us to be holy, set apart for Him. And He warns His people not to take His grace for granted.

1 Peter 1:15-16 (NIV)
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

Romans 6:1-2 (NKJV)
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”

God’s wrath is not an abstract threat. It is real—and it begins in the house of God.

1 Peter 4:17 (ESV)
“For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?”

5. Lukewarm Faith Provokes Rejection

Jesus’ rebuke to the church in Laodicea illustrates this point powerfully. He despises spiritual complacency.

Revelation 3:15-16 (NIV)
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold i am about to spit you out of my mouth.”

Being lukewarm claiming Christ while tolerating sin is  to God. It is a form of hypocrisy that poisons both personal witness and the integrity of the Church.

A Final Call to Purity

It’s time for believers to stop measuring themselves against the unbelieving world and start measuring themselves by the standard of God’s Word. In these last days, God is calling His people to deeper repentance, holiness, and spiritual fire.

2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV)
“Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”

Let’s not assume that our occasional sins are harmless. They offend a holy God deeply especially when we know better.

May we flee from complacency, pursue righteousness with all our hearts, and live in a way that brings honor, not grief, to the One who redeemed us.

May the Lord bless you and help you walk faithfully before Him

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