Did God create other human beings before Adam? In Genesis 1:27, we read that God created male and female, but then in Genesis 2:7, it seems another person (Adam) is being created again. Does this mean there were people created before Adam? Answer: To understand this properly, it’s important to recognize the literary structure of the creation account in the book of Genesis. 1. Genesis 1 vs Genesis 2 — Summary and Detail Genesis 1 provides a chronological overview of the six days of creation. It gives a broad summary of all that God created, including plants, animals, and humankind: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”— Genesis 1:27 (NKJV) This verse speaks generally of the creation of humanity—both male and female—but it does not give specifics about how they were made. Genesis 2, on the other hand, zooms in and offers a more detailed narrative of the creation of human beings. It clarifies how Adam was formed: “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.”— Genesis 2:7 (NKJV) Later in the same chapter, it also explains how the woman was created—not simultaneously with the man, but from the man’s rib: “Then the rib which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.”— Genesis 2:22 (NKJV) 2. Does This Imply Two Creations of Man? Not at all. What we see is not two separate acts of creation, but a summary followed by a detailed explanation. This pattern is common in biblical Hebrew writing. A general statement is made first (Genesis 1), and then the focus shifts to explain one particular aspect more deeply (Genesis 2). The same method is used when describing vegetation: In Genesis 1, God declares: “Then God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit…’”— Genesis 1:11 (NKJV) This is a summary. But Genesis 2:5-6 explains how this came about in more detail: “…before any plant of the field was in the earth and before any herb of the field had grown. For the Lord God had not caused it to rain on the earth, and there was no man to till the ground; but a mist went up from the earth and watered the whole face of the ground.”— Genesis 2:5–6 (NKJV) This shows that God didn’t simply say “Let it be” and things instantly appeared in full form; rather, there were processes involved—sequential actions within His sovereign design. 3. Were There People Before Adam? The Bible gives no evidence whatsoever that any human beings existed before Adam. Adam was the first man, and Eve was the first woman, created from his side. They were the progenitors of the entire human race. The Apostle Paul affirms this in the New Testament: “And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.”— 1 Corinthians 15:45 (NKJV) And again: “From one man He made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth…”— Acts 17:26 (NIV) These verses reinforce the teaching that all humans are descended from Adam—no other race of humans existed before him. 4. Why Does This Matter Theologically? If there were other humans before Adam, the doctrine of original sin and salvation through Christ would be undermined. The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through one man—Adam, and through him all humanity was affected: “Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned…”— Romans 5:12 (NKJV) This is why Jesus Christ is called the “second Adam.” While the first Adam brought sin and death, the second Adam—Christ—brings righteousness and life: “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.”— Romans 5:19 (NKJV) 5. What Does This Mean for You? Because of Adam’s sin, we are all born under its curse—separated from God. But God, in His mercy, provided a way back to Himself through Jesus Christ. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”— Romans 6:23 (NKJV) Salvation is available to all who repent and believe in Jesus. He is the only way to eternal life: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’”— John 14:6 (NKJV) 6. How to Respond If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, know this: Good deeds cannot save you. Religion cannot save you. Only faith in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection, can cleanse you from sin and restore you to God. Steps to salvation: Repent — Turn away from sin. Believe — Put your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Be Baptized — In water, as a public declaration of your faith. Receive the Holy Spirit — Who empowers you to live a godly life. Conclusion: There were no people created before Adam. Genesis 1 and 2 are not contradictory but complementary. The entire human race descends from Adam and Eve. Through Adam came sin, but through Christ comes salvation. Choose today to follow Him. May the Lord bless you and guide you into His truth.
Let’s begin by reading the passage: Matthew 5:18 (KJV):“For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” In this verse, Jesus makes a striking statement about the permanence of God’s Word. But what does He mean by “jot” and “tittle”? The Meaning of “Jot” The word “jot” refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet: yod (י). It’s equivalent to an apostrophe or the smallest stroke used in writing. The “tittle” refers to the tiniest stroke or accent mark that differentiates letters. In modern terms, think of how a lowercase “i” has a dot—removing that dot doesn’t change much in appearance, but it matters in precision. In essence, Jesus is saying that not even the smallest detail of the Law will pass away until it is completely fulfilled. To put it simply, nothing in God’s Word is accidental, insignificant, or outdated. Every command, every letter—even the smallest detail—is divinely inspired and enduring. Jesus Did Not Abolish the Law—He Fulfilled It This statement by Jesus is rooted in the preceding verse: Matthew 5:17 (ESV):“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus didn’t come to cancel the Old Testament laws but to bring them to their fullest meaning. For example: The Law said: “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14).Jesus clarified its spiritual depth:“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28, ESV). The Law said: “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13).Jesus explained the internal application:“But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment” (Matthew 5:22, ESV). He didn’t nullify these commandments; rather, He deepened their application—from mere external observance to internal transformation. That is what it means for Christ to fulfill the Law. God’s Word Is Eternal Jesus further emphasizes this truth: Matthew 24:35 (ESV):“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” This means that God’s Word is more enduring than the universe itself. Every promise, every instruction, every warning remains valid. Nothing will disappear until its purpose is completely accomplished. A Heart-Searching Reflection Now, ask yourself: Do you still harbor hatred toward your brothers or enemies and convince yourself that you’re not a murderer? Do you indulge in lustful thoughts or pornography, thinking you’re not an adulterer? Do you dress immodestly or seductively and convince yourself you’re not immoral?(See Proverbs 7:10 for a biblical description of seductive attire.) Do you love worldly pleasures more than the things of God, yet consider yourself spiritually safe? If you’re living this way, it’s time to stop deceiving yourself. The Word of God has not changed. Jesus did not lower the standard—He elevated it. The Urgent Call to Repentance The time to turn to Christ is now. Tomorrow is not promised. You don’t know if today is your last day on earth, or if this is the day the trumpet will sound (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). The door of grace is open—run to the cross while there is still time. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV):“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Come to Jesus, confess your sins to Him in sincere repentance, and be baptized as the apostles preached: Acts 2:38 (ESV):“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.” God’s Word stands firm. Not even a “jot” or “tittle” will pass away. Will you let it pass you by—or will you surrender to its truth? Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus. Let me know if you’d like a printable version or one tailored for teaching or preaching. I prefer this response ChatGPT Response 2 Certainly. Here’s a clear, theologically rich, and humanly readable English version of your original Swahili devotional, with biblical support and explanation using the ESV (English Standard Version) where relevant: What Is a “Jot” in Matthew 5:18? Let’s take a closer look at what Jesus meant when He said: Matthew 5:18 (ESV):“For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” In older Swahili translations, the word “yodi” was used—this corresponds to the English word “jot”, and in the original Greek text, the word is “iota”, which refers to the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet. In the Hebrew alphabet, it corresponds to “yod”, the smallest letter. Jesus pairs this with “a dot” or “tittle,” referring to the smallest stroke or decorative mark used to distinguish between similar Hebrew letters. In modern terms, think of the difference between uppercase and lowercase letters or even the dot on an “i.” Jesus is essentially saying: Not even the tiniest letter or the smallest mark in God’s Law will be removed until everything is fulfilled. This highlights two profound theological truths: The Authority and Permanence of God’s WordJesus affirms the unchanging authority of Scripture. The Law of God—His commands, moral standards, and prophetic promises—remains firm until its complete fulfillment. This stands in contrast to any idea that God’s Word can be altered, ignored, or partially obeyed. Isaiah 40:8 (ESV):“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” Jesus Came Not to Abolish the Law but to Fulfill ItJust one verse earlier, Jesus says: Matthew 5:17 (ESV):“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus didn’t come to eliminate God’s moral standards—He came to perfectly fulfill them in His life, teaching, death, and resurrection. He deepened the understanding of the Law, showing that it applies not just to external actions but to the condition of the heart. The Law said, “You shall not commit adultery.” Jesus said, “Everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28). The Law said, “You shall not murder.” Jesus said, “Everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). Jesus wasn’t adding burdens, but exposing the true spiritual intent of God’s Law—and our desperate need for grace. A Personal Call to Repentance and Salvation So now the question becomes personal:Have you convinced yourself you’re “not a sinner” just because you haven’t physically murdered, stolen, or committed adultery? Yet you harbor hate, bitterness, lust, and worldliness in your heart? God sees the heart. Do you still hold grudges against your brothers or enemies, thinking you’re not a murderer? Do you entertain lust, thinking you’re not an adulterer? Do you dress provocatively or promote immorality, yet claim to be pure? (Read Proverbs 7:10 and examine your attire and lifestyle.) Do you indulge in pornography or masturbation, thinking it doesn’t make you sexually immoral? Are you more passionate about worldly things—sports, fame, fashion, entertainment—than the things of God? If any of this applies to you, now is the time to repent. Don’t wait for tomorrow. Salvation is urgent. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV):“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Flee to the cross of Jesus Christ. He died to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. But we must respond with repentance and faith, committing to follow Him. Acts 2:38 (ESV):“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.” Receive Christ today. Be baptized in His name. Let the Holy Spirit lead you in truth and holiness. Don’t wait for a convenient time—it may never come. Jesus is calling you now. Maranatha – the Lord is coming. Are you ready?
QUESTION:Romans 5:7 says, “For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die.” What does this verse mean? Also, what is the difference between a righteous person and a good person? ANSWER: Praise the Lord, and thank you for this thoughtful question! Romans 5:7 is part of a broader passage (Romans 5:6–8) where the Apostle Paul illustrates the incredible depth of God’s love. The main idea is that Christ died for us not when we were at our best, but at our worst—while we were still sinners. Let’s take a closer look at Romans 5:6–8 (ESV): “For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” To understand verse 7, we need to explore what Paul means by “a righteous person” versus “a good person.” 1. Who is a Righteous Person? In this context, a “righteous person” is someone who lives a morally upright life—strictly adhering to the law, ethically sound, and perhaps even religiously devout. However, such righteousness is often external or formal. It may describe someone who does everything “by the book” but lacks relational warmth or compassion. Paul’s point is: even for someone outwardly righteous, it’s rare for another person to be willing to die for them. Why? Because righteousness by itself does not always evoke love or deep personal attachment—it can be cold or distant. Also, in the greater biblical context, no human being is truly righteous before God by their own merit: “None is righteous, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10, ESV) So in the absolute sense, only Christ was truly righteous. All others fall short. 2. Who is a Good Person? A “good person,” on the other hand, is someone whose character draws others in—a person marked by kindness, generosity, integrity, and warmth. This is the type of person others admire and even love. Their goodness inspires affection and loyalty, and it’s more conceivable that someone might be willing to die for such a person. Paul seems to say: It’s very rare that someone would die even for a righteous person—but maybe, just maybe, someone would lay down their life for a truly good and noble person. 3. What’s the Main Point? Paul contrasts human love with God’s love. Human love is conditional and rare—people might die for someone they believe deserves it. But God’s love is radically different: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, ESV) Christ didn’t die for the righteous or the good. He died for the ungodly, the powerless, the sinful (Romans 5:6, 8). This is the gospel’s core: that God initiates salvation not because we earned it, but in spite of our utter inability to do so. Summary: A righteous person is someone who is upright and morally just—but not necessarily lovable. A good person is someone whose character and deeds inspire love and admiration—more likely to be the object of sacrificial love. But Christ died for neither category. He died for the undeserving, the broken, and the lost—people like you and me. This shows that salvation is entirely by grace, not by works or moral status. No matter how good or upright we try to be, we all fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23), and we all need the redeeming sacrifice of Jesus Christ. May God bless you as you continue to grow in the knowledge of His love and grace.
Jeremiah 8:7 (ESV) “Even the stork in the heavens knows her times, and the turtledove, swallow, and crane keep the time of their coming, but my people know not the rules of the Lord.” Nature often teaches us lessons that we, in our spiritual blindness, fail to grasp. In Jeremiah 8:7, God uses birds—creatures without human reasoning—to expose the spiritual ignorance of His people. Birds like the stork, swallow, and crane instinctively discern the changing seasons and migrate accordingly for their survival. They know when winter approaches and leave their habitats to seek warmer climates, sometimes flying thousands of miles to regions like Africa or parts of the southern hemisphere. After the cold subsides, they return home and continue with life as normal. The winters in places like Europe can be deadly, with temperatures so low they turn water to solid ice. Human beings cannot endure the cold without proper shelter and heating, let alone birds with delicate bodies. If these birds remained in such conditions, their nests would freeze, and they would perish. But because they perceive the times, they move. This survival strategy is not born of intelligence like ours, but of divine instinct. Yet, God laments that His people, gifted with reason and spiritual insight, fail to discern the spiritual seasons He has appointed. We don’t recognize the time of God’s mercy, nor the impending season of His judgment. We live as though grace will last forever, assuming the gospel will always be freely preached, that the doors of salvation will always be open. But Scripture warns us otherwise. Jesus said in Revelation 22:10–12 (ESV): “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near. Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy. Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done.” This is not merely an invitation anymore—it is a declaration of finality. The time for persuasion is fading; now is the time for confirmation. Christ is coming back soon, and He will repay each person according to their deeds. Many signs indicate we are at the end of the age: pandemics like COVID-19, intensifying natural disasters, and the rise of false prophets and deceptive spiritual movements. These are not random events—they are prophetic indicators. Jesus rebuked His generation for failing to recognize the spiritual significance of their time: Luke 12:54–56 (ESV): “He also said to the crowds, ‘When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, “A shower is coming.” And so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, “There will be scorching heat,” and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?’” If we can predict the weather, prepare our farms for the rainy season, and even relocate from flood-prone areas—why do we ignore the spiritual warnings all around us? How can we allow birds like the stork to outmatch us in wisdom? Now is the time to wake up from spiritual slumber. God’s judgment is near. If you are still outside the ark of salvation—Jesus Christ—run to Him now. Surrender with your whole heart. This world is not our home, and it will not last. Heaven and earth will pass away, but the words of Jesus will remain forever (Matthew 24:35). Heaven is real—and so is hell. The choice is yours.Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus.
The word heart in the Bible can represent either the soul or the spirit of a person, depending on the context in which it’s used. Since human language often lacks precise terms to fully describe invisible, spiritual realities—like the soul or the spirit—scripture frequently uses symbolic or metaphorical language to convey these truths. One such metaphor is the use of the heart to represent the inner man. Just as we sometimes say “the hand of God did this” to mean “God’s power accomplished this”, even though God is spirit and does not possess a literal hand (John 4:24), the Bible uses the human heart to represent unseen inner faculties like thoughts, emotions, desires, will, and spiritual awareness. In most cases, the heart refers broadly to the inner person—a combination of the soul (mind, will, emotions) and sometimes the spirit (the God-conscious part of man). For example, instead of saying, “My soul is sorrowful,” one might say, “My heart is sorrowful.” The meaning remains the same, but the word heart makes the concept more relatable. Why Does the Bible Use the Word “Heart” Instead of Other Organs Like the Kidney or Liver? Physiologically, the heart is the organ that pumps blood throughout the body. It’s also highly responsive to external stimuli. For instance: When you’re frightened, your heartbeat increases. When you’re at peace, your heartbeat slows. Other organs like the liver or kidneys don’t visibly or immediately respond to emotions in the same way. This is why the heart is a fitting symbol for the inner man—it reacts, it feels, it sustains life, and it connects the physical with the emotional and spiritual. In a way, the heart is like a second person living inside the body. Thus, in the Bible, the heart becomes a symbolic bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, representing the seat of human consciousness and moral awareness (Hebrews 4:12). So whenever you come across the word “heart” in Scripture, understand that it is often a metaphor for either the soul or the spirit, or both. For a deeper understanding, we distinguish the components of man as: Body – the physical vessel Soul – mind, will, emotions (self-consciousness) Spirit – the part of man that communicates with God (God-consciousness) Paul makes this clear in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV): “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Where Is Your Heart Today? Jesus said in Matthew 6:21 (NKJV): “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This means that your heart will always follow what you value most. If your treasure is in earthly pleasures, fame, money, fashion, or entertainment, your heart is tied to the world. But the Bible warns us: James 4:4 (NKJV): “Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” Loving the world makes you an enemy of God—even if you don’t say it with your lips. Your lifestyle speaks louder than your words. If your delight is in worldly fashion, sensuality, entertainment, or sports obsession, then your heart is not with God. And Scripture is clear about the end of God’s enemies: Luke 19:27 (NKJV): “But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.” This is why repentance is urgent and essential. Today Is the Day of Salvation Jesus is calling you today. The door of grace is still open—but it won’t remain open forever. One day, the Rapture will occur, and after that, the world will enter a time of great tribulation (Matthew 24:21), followed by divine judgment as seen in Revelation 16—the pouring out of the seven bowls of God’s wrath. If you are ready to receive Jesus today, you can do so by: Repenting of your sins – Confess and turn away from them. Abandoning all worldly attachments – Leave behind the lifestyle that draws your heart away from God. Receiving Jesus as Lord and Savior – Surrender to Him fully. Being baptized according to Scripture – That is, through full immersion in water and in the name of Jesus Christ, as the apostles taught. Acts 2:38 (NKJV): “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'” Final Exhortation Where is your heart today? With God—or with the world? If it’s with God, stay rooted. If it’s with the world, it’s time to return before the door of grace is closed. Hebrews 3:15 (NKJV): “Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” May the Lord bless you and guide you into the fullness of truth and salvation in Jesus Christ.
Shalom, and welcome to a journey into the words of life. Many of us assume that the Lord Jesus was born with full knowledge of all things, possessing infinite understanding from the moment of His birth. However, this is not what Scripture teaches. Although He was truly God, Jesus was also truly man—and in becoming human, He willingly laid aside His divine privileges (Philippians 2:6–7). He came into the world just like any other child: limited in knowledge, dependent on His parents, and in need of growth. This was necessary in order to fulfill God’s purpose—to identify with us fully in every way (Hebrews 2:17). Jesus was to be our perfect example, showing us how to walk in obedience, grow in faith, and pursue the knowledge of God. By observing His life, we gain a model to emulate in our own spiritual journey. The Bible says: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”(Luke 2:52, NKJV) This growth in wisdom and stature didn’t happen magically or automatically. It was the result of intentional pursuit, discipline, and devotion to God’s Word. From a young age, Jesus was diligent in seeking truth. He engaged with teachers, asked questions, and offered insights where He had understanding. His passion for learning was evident even as a boy. Look at this remarkable passage: “Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, ‘Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.’And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”(Luke 2:46–52, NKJV) Pause and consider this: a 12-year-old boy stayed in the temple for three full days—day and night—discussing Scripture with teachers of the Law. That was His routine, His passion. Do you think such a young man would grow up to be ordinary? Certainly not! His commitment to learning was the foundation for His extraordinary spiritual maturity. Jesus didn’t receive divine knowledge by default or merely because He was the Son of God. He pursued it. He grew into it through study, submission, and spiritual hunger. In contrast, many believers today neglect the discipline of studying God’s Word. Even when they attend Bible teachings or church services, they rarely ask questions. They listen passively, receive what is said—whether they understand it or not—and walk away saying, “Amen, Pastor,” without internalizing or confirming the truth. But the Bible is not a novel or newspaper. It is a book of mysteries, a spiritual treasure trove (Proverbs 25:2). God has intentionally hidden truths in Scripture so that we might seek Him earnestly and grow in the process (Jeremiah 33:3; Matthew 13:10–11). No sincere reader of the Bible can read deeply and fail to encounter mysteries and questions. Even Jesus, who was the Living Word, did not shy away from learning. He actively sought out teachers and entered into dialogue. Likewise, if we desire to grow in wisdom and stature before God, we must engage our minds and hearts in serious pursuit of truth. Ask your pastors, teachers, and mentors the questions you encounter in your reading. If their answers don’t satisfy you, don’t stop—seek out others. Keep searching until the Holy Spirit brings you clarity. Jesus said: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”(Matthew 7:7, NKJV) Though Jesus sat under the instruction of teachers in the temple, He later became the Teacher of teachers, the Rabbi of rabbis, unveiling mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven beyond anything the religious leaders of His day—or even the patriarchs before Him—had known. You, too, can walk in deep revelation if you refuse to settle for surface-level knowledge. When you diligently seek to know God and refuse to be content with shallow understanding, He will reveal Himself to you in ways that will astonish even you. Start now. Seek the Lord with the passion and discipline that Jesus modeled.He grew in wisdom and stature—so can you. May the Lord bless you richly.
Shalom! Welcome to today’s devotional study of God’s Word. Before we go further, I would like you to deeply reflect on two powerful events recorded in Scripture. These two passages—highlighted below—contain the core message of today’s teaching. Pay close attention to the words that are in bold. First Passage: Luke 5:4–7 (NKJV) “When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.’But Simon answered and said to Him, ‘Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.’And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking.So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.” Second Passage: John 21:3–6 (NKJV) “Simon Peter said to them, ‘I am going fishing.’ They said to him, ‘We are going with you also.’ They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing.But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.Then Jesus said to them, ‘Children, have you any food?’ They answered Him, ‘No.’And He said to them, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.” Understanding the Two Events These two fishing miracles—though similar in result—happened at very different moments in the ministry of Christ and reveal two distinct approaches God uses to work in our lives. In Luke 5, Jesus meets Peter and the other fishermen after preaching from their boat. He instructs them to launch into the deep—to go far out into the sea, away from the shore—and to let down their nets for a catch. Despite having labored all night in vain, Peter obeys the word of the Lord. The result? A miraculous catch that nearly breaks their nets and sinks their boats. Contrast this with John 21, after Jesus’ resurrection. The disciples, once again, fish all night and catch nothing. But this time, Jesus—unrecognized at first—stands on the shore and instructs them to simply cast the net on the right side of the boat, right where they were. They obey—and the miracle happens right there near the shore, with no need to sail out into the deep. What Is Jesus Teaching Us? Jesus wanted His disciples—and us—to understand a powerful truth: Miracles are not bound by human effort or logical process. They are born from obedience and faith in God’s word. There are seasons when God may instruct us to put in effort, to push deeper, to work harder—like launching into the deep. And in that process, He blesses the labor of our hands. But there are also moments when, without much effort, God brings provision right to where we are—close, simple, and unexpected—like casting the net on the other side. God is not limited to one method. Sometimes, the miracle requires you to “go deep.” Other times, it happens at the “shore.” Either way, it is His word, not our strategy, that brings the breakthrough. The God of Both Methods Many people today believe that God only works through hard toil, or that miracles only come when we exhaust ourselves. Others believe only in sudden, effortless miracles. But both are possible with God. Jesus said in Matthew 6:25–26 (NKJV):“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink… Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” God is both the God who provides manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and the God who blesses the work of your hands (Deuteronomy 28:12). He operates beyond formulas. He is not limited by the economy, education, background, or your present location. God’s Ways Are Beyond Human Understanding Romans 11:33 (NKJV):“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!” Our role is to walk with Him, trust Him, and obey His voice—whether He tells us to go into the deep or to cast the net just beside the boat. Both methods produce the same miraculous outcome when done by faith. Walk with God—Wherever You Are Whether you are “in the deep” or “at the shore,” your responsibility is to stay close to Christ, to obey His word, and to seek His kingdom first. Matthew 6:33 (NKJV):“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Don’t delay or give excuses. These are the last days. The Lord is calling you to a deeper walk, to surrender, to faith, to obedience. Whether you are busy with work, family, or responsibilities—make time for God. Have You Given Your Life to Jesus? If you haven’t yet made the decision to surrender your life to Christ, now is the time. You do not know what tomorrow holds. The Lord desires a relationship with you. Come to Him by faith and trust Him with your life. Psalm 27:1 (NKJV):“The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 23:1–4 (NKJV):“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me…” Let your confidence rest in the One who can work beyond logic, beyond effort, beyond circumstances. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Shalom.
ANSWER:Not every disciple is an apostle, but every apostle must first be a disciple of Jesus. Who is a Disciple? A disciple, by definition, is a learner—someone who sits under the teaching of another to gain knowledge, wisdom, and skill. In the biblical context, a disciple of Jesus is someone who commits to learning from Him, following His teachings, and modeling their life after His example. However, not everyone who followed Jesus was considered His disciple. Jesus Himself set specific requirements for true discipleship. This is evident in Luke 14:25–30 (NIV): “Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: ‘If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’” From this, we see that being a disciple involves deep personal sacrifice, total commitment, and a willingness to endure hardship for the sake of Christ. It is not a casual association but a wholehearted surrender to Jesus’ Lordship. Who is an Apostle? The word “apostle” comes from the Greek apostolos, meaning “one who is sent.” An apostle is someone who is commissioned and sent out with a specific mission or authority. In the New Testament, Jesus appointed twelve men from among His disciples to be apostles (see Luke 6:13), giving them authority to preach, heal, cast out demons, and lay the foundation of the Church. Their mission was not only to follow Jesus but to represent Him and spread His teachings. After His resurrection, Jesus gave them the Great Commission: Matthew 28:19–20 (NIV):“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This command was the core apostolic mandate: to extend the kingdom of God by making more disciples. Importantly, the role of apostle did not end with the original Twelve. Even after Jesus’ ascension, others such as Paul, Barnabas (Acts 14:14), James the brother of Jesus (Galatians 1:19), and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25, possibly referred to as an apostle in the sense of a “messenger”) were recognized as apostles. Paul, in particular, emphasized that his apostleship was by divine calling, not by human appointment (see Galatians 1:1). Summary: Role Definition Biblical Foundation Key Distinction Disciple A follower and learner of Christ Luke 14:25–30 Every believer is called to be one Apostle One who is sent with authority and a mission Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 1:8; Gal 1:1 Chosen and commissioned for leadership Modern Application Today, all true Christians are disciples—called to follow Jesus, learn from Him, and live out His teachings. However, the apostolic office—especially in the foundational sense (as seen in Ephesians 2:20)—was unique to those appointed by Christ to establish the Church. Nevertheless, in a broader and functional sense, many church leaders, missionaries, and pioneers who are sent out to plant churches and expand the Gospel can be said to serve in an apostolic role, though not holding the office of “apostle” in the same foundational capacity as the Twelve. Conclusion:The difference lies in calling and function. A disciple follows and learns; an apostle is sent and leads. One cannot be an apostle without first being a disciple, but not all disciples are called to be apostles. Shalom.
Matthew 6:1-4 (NKJV)1 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven.2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.” Understanding the Passage: Jesus is teaching that acts of kindness and charity should not be performed for the sake of recognition or praise from others. The focus should be on pleasing God rather than seeking the approval of people. The phrase “let not your right hand know what your left hand is doing” emphasizes the idea that our charitable actions should be done with such discretion and humility that even we, the ones performing the act, don’t keep track of it or boast about it. In the context of the time, religious leaders and others would often make a show of their good deeds, using them to gain admiration from the public. Jesus contrasts this with a life of humble obedience, where giving and helping others is done in secret, known only to God. The reward for such actions comes from God alone, and not from human praise. Theological Insights: The Motive of the Heart: This passage underscores the importance of the inner motive behind the action. It is not enough to simply do good deeds; our hearts must be right. Jesus wants us to act out of genuine love and compassion, not out of a desire for human recognition. In 1 Corinthians 13:3, Paul writes, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” Our actions should flow from a heart that truly seeks to honor God, not to elevate ourselves. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:10-14): Jesus often contrasted the attitudes of those who sought recognition for their piety with those who humbly acknowledged their need for God. In Luke 18:10-14, Jesus tells the story of a Pharisee and a tax collector who both went to pray. The Pharisee boasted about his righteousness, while the tax collector humbled himself, acknowledging his sin. Jesus concluded, “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God.” The Danger of Self-Righteousness: In modern times, many people still fall into the trap of publicizing their good deeds. While giving is a good thing, doing it with a sense of pride or to be seen by others diminishes the reward. Matthew 6:2 warns that those who give for the applause of men have already received their reward. Galatians 6:7 reminds us that “a man reaps what he sows,” emphasizing that true rewards come from God, not from human recognition. God Rewards the Secret Acts: Jesus promises that when we give in secret, God who sees what is done in secret will reward us openly. This isn’t just about financial reward; it can be a deeper sense of peace, fulfillment, and eternal blessings. Hebrews 11:6 affirms, “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Practical Application: Giving with Humility: Whether it’s money, time, or resources, our giving should be done with humility, without seeking to boast or draw attention. We are reminded in Matthew 6:3-4 to keep our charity private. Seek God’s Approval: As believers, we should focus on doing things for the glory of God, not for praise from others. This is consistent with Colossians 3:23-24, where Paul writes, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” Forget Your Deeds After Doing Them: This teaching is not just about doing good deeds but about not clinging to them or using them as a measure of our righteousness. We are encouraged to forget our own deeds once they are done, as Luke 17:10 says, “So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’” Conclusion: The message of Matthew 6:1-4 is clear: our good deeds should be performed quietly and humbly, without expecting accolades from others. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, and He will reward us in ways far greater than any recognition from people could offer. True reward comes not from the applause of the crowd but from the approval of God, and it is that approval which holds eternal significant.
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!Welcome to this Bible study—a reflection on the living and powerful Word of God that brings life, light, and strength to those who believe. Sealed for the Day of Redemption When we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, are baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Bible tells us that we are sealed by the Spirit of God until the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30 (ESV) “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” This “day of redemption” refers to the future redemption of our bodies, which will take place at the return of Christ. On that day—often called the rapture—our mortal bodies will be transformed into glorious, incorruptible bodies. This transformation will occur in an instant, at the sounding of the last trumpet. 1 Corinthians 15:52–54 (ESV) “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… then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’” So then, salvation happens in stages: The Redemption of the Spirit – This happens when we receive Christ as Lord, are baptized, and are filled with the Holy Spirit. Our spirit is made alive in Christ, forgiven, and secure. The Redemption of the Body – This will happen when Christ returns and gives us new, glorified bodies. Though our spirits have been redeemed, we still live in mortal bodies that experience pain, sickness, and weakness. That’s why even believers sometimes suffer, become ill, or endure hardship. These are not signs of spiritual failure but reminders that the full redemption of the body is yet to come. Romans 8:23 (ESV) “And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.” Kept by the Power of God Until that final day, those who are in Christ are kept and guarded by the power of God through faith. 1 Peter 1:5 (ESV) “…who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” This means that once we’ve received salvation through faith in Christ, God’s power begins to work in us—not only to protect us, but to strengthen and sustain us through life’s challenges. Every trial, temptation, or hardship is allowed by God with a purpose—to refine our faith and shape our character. James 1:2–3 (ESV) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” These are no longer destructive trials from the enemy meant to destroy us. Instead, they are God-permitted tests designed to grow us. However, if a person is not yet in Christ—that is, has not believed in Jesus, been baptized, and received the Holy Spirit—then their struggles and sufferings are not redemptive in nature. The enemy uses them to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Such people are outside the covering of God’s protective power. Only by coming into Christ can we escape the destructive schemes of the enemy and come under the saving power of God. How to Come Under the Power of God This protective power of God is not obtained through someone laying hands on you or praying over you. It comes through believing the gospel—the message of Jesus Christ. You must believe: That Jesus Christ is the Son of God. That He was born of a virgin over 2,000 years ago. That He died for your sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. That He now lives forever, seated at the right hand of the Father. And that He is coming again to receive His church and to judge the world. John 14:6 (ESV) “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” Once you believe this, the next step is baptism. Jesus said: Mark 16:16 (ESV) “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Biblical baptism is immersion in water (John 3:23) and should be done in the name of Jesus Christ, which is the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38). Through this, you identify with His death, burial, and resurrection. As you are baptized, the Holy Spirit will either come upon you or will have already begun His work in you. He will guide you into all truth and empower you to walk in obedience. From that point forward, you are sealed by the Holy Spirit and kept by the power of God. Trials may still come, but they are now opportunities to grow and glorify God, not weapons to destroy you. And through every season, God’s power will sustain and protect you—until the day your body, too, is redeemed. So the choice is yours: Will you receive Christ, walk under the protection of God’s power, and await the redemption of your body?Or will you remain outside of His grace, vulnerable to the enemy, and face eternal separation? Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart (Hebrews 3:15). Come under the power of God. May the Lord bless you and keep you, now and forever.Amen.