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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!)
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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:
Intercessory Righteousness: 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.” (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. 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. 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. 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,” indicate Daniel’s unique standing before God due to his faithful intercession.
Intercessory Righteousness:
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.”
(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.
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.
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.
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,”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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?”
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.
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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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.
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.)
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.