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Have Those Who Died in Christ Really Perished?

(1 Corinthians 15:18 – NIV)

Question:

Praise the Lord Jesus. I seek clarity: What does this verse really mean?

 

1 Corinthians 15:18-19 (NIV):
“Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.
If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.”

 

Answer:

At first glance, verse 18 might sound as though Paul is saying that believers who died in Christ are lost. But this is a misreading when taken out of context. Paul is not stating a theological conclusion here he’s presenting a logical “what-if” scenario to refute a false belief.

Let’s look at the larger context:

The Issue at Corinth: Denial of Resurrection

In 1 Corinthians 15:12, Paul confronts a doctrinal error within the Corinthian church:

 

“But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” (1 Corinthians 15:12, NIV)

 

Some Corinthian believers had started to adopt the view that there is no resurrection of the dead—perhaps influenced by Greek philosophical thought or by the Jewish sect of the Sadducees, who also denied resurrection (see Acts 23:8).

Paul then walks through a logical progression in verses 13–19:

  •  

  • “If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.”

  • “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”

  • “More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God…”

  • “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”

  • “Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.”
    (See 1 Corinthians 15:13–18, NIV)

  •  

These are hypothetical consequences if Christ had not risen. But Paul is not saying these are true he is using them to prove the necessity of the resurrection.

The Theological Foundation: Christ’s Resurrection Guarantees Ours

Paul concludes:

 

“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”
(1 Corinthians 15:20, NIV)

 

The term “firstfruits” is significant. In Jewish tradition, the first portion of the harvest was given to God as a sign of the full harvest to come (Leviticus 23:10). By calling Christ the firstfruits, Paul is teaching that His resurrection is the guarantee and beginning of the resurrection of all believers.

This is echoed later in the chapter:

 

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
(1 Corinthians 15:22, NIV)

 

Therefore, the statement “those who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost” is only true if Christ did not rise but He did, and so they are not lost.

Verse 19: Why Believing in Christ Is Not Just for This Life

Paul writes:

 

“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.”
(1 Corinthians 15:19, NIV) 

 

In other words, if Jesus didn’t rise, and there’s no eternal hope, then Christians have sacrificed worldly comforts for nothing. In many parts of the early church, and still today, believers face persecution, poverty, and rejection because of their faith.

Yet Jesus warned and prepared His followers:

 

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
(Mark 8:34, NIV)

 

And He added:

 

“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
(Mark 8:38, NIV)

 

So, the Christian life isn’t built on temporary blessings alone it’s grounded in the eternal hope of resurrection and eternal life with Christ.

The Hope of the Overcomer

Jesus offers a final reward to those who remain faithful:

 

“To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.”
(Revelation 3:21, NIV)

 

This is the destiny of those who die in Christ they are not lost; they are secure in Him, awaiting resurrection glory.

In Summary:

  • 1 Corinthians 15:18 does not teach that believers who died in Christ are lost.

  • It is part of Paul’s logical argument to show how essential belief in the resurrection is.

  • Since Christ has risen, our faith is not in vain and those who “sleep in Christ” will rise too.

  • Our hope as Christians extends far beyond this life.

  • Let us not fear shame, suffering, or loss for Jesus because our future with Him is eternal.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and encourage you with the truth of the resurrection

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Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom

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What Is a Sitara in the Bible?

Definition and Biblical Symbolism of Sitara

The Swahili word Sitara comes from the root “sitiri,” meaning “to cover” or “to conceal.” A Sitara, therefore, refers to anything that hides, shields, or protects something else. This concept of covering appears repeatedly throughout Scripture and has deep theological meaning. In everyday life, examples of Sitara include clothing (which covers our nakedness) and curtains (which shield what is behind them). In biblical theology, the idea of covering relates to themes of holiness, protection, and atonement.

Old Testament Context: The Tabernacle and the Veil

One of the clearest biblical examples of a Sitara is the veil (curtain) used in the Tabernacle the mobile sanctuary God commanded the Israelites to build. This veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies), where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. The Ark represented God’s presence and was so sacred that only the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) (see Leviticus 16).

Numbers 4:5 (NIV) – “When the camp is to move, Aaron and his sons are to go in and take down the shielding curtain and cover the Ark of the Testimony with it.”

This veil served as a physical and spiritual Sitara, concealing God’s glory from sinful humans and preventing them from perishing in His holy presence.

Other relevant verses:

  • Exodus 26:33–34 – “Hang the curtain from the clasps and place the Ark of the Covenant law behind the curtain. The curtain will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.”
  • Exodus 40:21 – “Then he brought the Ark into the tabernacle and hung the shielding curtain and shielded the Ark of the Covenant law, as the Lord commanded him.”

New Testament Fulfillment: Jesus Christ as Our Ultimate Sitara

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ becomes the ultimate Sitara not one that conceals, but one that covers our sin and gives us access to God.

At the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom:

Matthew 27:51 (NIV)  “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split.”

This act symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are no longer separated from God’s presence. He now covers us with His righteousness, making us acceptable before a holy God.

Hebrews 10:19–20 (NIV)   “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body…”

Thus, Jesus is our eternal Sitara He not only hides our sin, but replaces our guilt with His holiness. He fulfills the Old Testament imagery of atonement and covering.

Sitara as Divine Protection

In addition to atonement, the Bible uses imagery of God as a hiding place, a refuge from trouble. These are spiritual Sitara metaphors showing that God shields us from danger, judgment, and fear.

Psalm 32:7 (NIV) – “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”

Psalm 119:114 (NIV) – “You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.”

The Danger of False Coverings

The Bible warns against placing our trust in human beings or earthly systems for protection or salvation. Trusting in man rather than God is described as a curse:

Jeremiah 17:5–6 (NIV) – “This is what the Lord says: ‘Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes.’”

In contrast:

Jeremiah 17:7–8 (NIV) – “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream…”

Science, human wisdom, or even religion itself cannot be our true Sitara. Only Christ can cover us completely both for eternity and for the trials of this life.

Conclusion: Make Jesus Your Eternal Sitara

To make the Lord your Sitara is to receive His righteousness, His protection, and His love. It is to trust Him above all else for salvation, for peace, and for your future. Rejecting Him leaves you uncovered, vulnerable, and spiritually exposed.

Let us, therefore, continually seek to dwell under His covering.

Psalm 91:1 (NIV) – “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”

Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus!

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Guard your steps when you go to the house of God

Question: What is the meaning of the verse Ecclesiastes 5:1?

Ecclesiastes 5:1 – “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.” (NIV)

Answer: Amen, may the great name of our Lord Jesus Christ be praised forever.

In this passage, the Preacher (the writer of Ecclesiastes, often attributed to Solomon) offers wisdom on how we are to approach God’s presence, particularly in the context of worship and service. The phrase “guard your steps” carries the idea of approaching God with great reverence and awareness, understanding the seriousness of coming into His presence. The Bible frequently stresses the holiness and majesty of God (Psalm 29:2; Isaiah 6:3), and this passage is a reminder that our approach to God should reflect this truth.

The first part of the verse emphasizes the importance of listening over offering. “Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools” means that God values our attentiveness more than our hasty actions. Sacrifices in the Old Testament were meant to demonstrate devotion and repentance (Leviticus 1-7), but the Bible also warns that not all sacrifices are acceptable to God. As we see in

Isaiah 1:11 (NIV), God says, “The multitude of your sacrifices—what are they to me?”

This suggests that not all religious actions are pleasing to God if they are done without sincerity or true devotion.

The “sacrifice of fools” refers to ritual acts that are done thoughtlessly or without understanding. A fool, according to Scripture, is someone who lacks wisdom and discernment (Psalm 14:1, Proverbs 1:7). A “sacrifice of fools” could refer to someone who rushes to perform religious duties without first examining their heart and life. This is why Ecclesiastes calls us to listen—to receive God’s Word, reflect on it, and apply it in obedience, rather than mindlessly offering empty rituals.

The New Testament further reinforces this idea of careful, thoughtful worship. In Matthew 15:8-9 Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, saying,

Matthew 15:8-9 (NIV), “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.”

This points to the danger of external acts of worship without a corresponding change in heart.

Moreover, when we offer worship or service to God, it must be done in accordance with His will. As Romans 12:1-2 (NIV) teaches, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” True worship involves our whole being, not just outward acts.

Moving on to

Ecclesiastes 5:2 (NIV), i”Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven, and you are on earth; so let your words be few.”

This is a direct warning against speaking hastily or flippantly before God. It emphasizes the need for reverence when addressing God, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness. This ties in with Jesus’ teaching on prayer in Matthew 6:7,

Matthew 6:7 (NIV), “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.”

God does not require long, drawn-out prayers for the sake of quantity, but sincere, thoughtful communication with Him.

Theological Context of Vows and Offerings

The second part of the passage in Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 warns about making vows to God and failing to keep them. Ecclesiastes 5:4 (NIV) says,

“When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.”

In the Old Testament, making vows to God was a serious commitment (Numbers 30:2, Deuteronomy 23:21-23). Failing to keep a vow was considered sinful, as it indicated a lack of integrity and dishonor to God.

The New Testament also addresses the importance of keeping one’s word. In James 5:12 (NIV), we are reminded:

“Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; otherwise, you will be condemned.”

This reflects the idea that God desires sincerity over empty promises.

The Importance of Holiness in Offerings

Another point the passage makes is about the source of the offerings. Ecclesiastes 5 warns against bringing offerings to God that come from sinful or immoral sources. Deuteronomy 23:18 (NIV) clearly states:

“You must not bring the earnings of a female prostitute or of a male prostitute into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, because the Lord your God detests them both.”

This teaches that God does not accept offerings that are tainted by sin or unclean practices. Such acts dishonor Him, and they are an abomination in His sight.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Ecclesiastes 5 teaches us to approach God’s presence with great reverence and discernment. If we are unsure of God’s will for our lives, it’s better to do nothing than to offer mindless acts of worship. We must first seek to know His heart and understand His desires, and only then offer ourselves in service. God values holiness and obedience above all else, as we see in

1 Samuel 15:22 (NIV): “To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.”

When we approach God, it should be with a heart full of reverence, a life in alignment with His will, and a sincere desire to honor Him in all that we do. Our worship, prayers, and offerings should reflect our obedience and holiness, not just external acts of service.

Shalom.

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Why Did Jesus Say in Mark 4:12, “So that they may indeed see but not perceive…”?

The Question:
In Mark 4:12, Jesus says:

“…so that ‘they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.’” (ESV)

This verse seems puzzling. Didn’t Jesus come so that people would repent and be forgiven? Why would He speak in a way that might prevent that?

The Context:

To understand this, we need to look at the context. Earlier in Mark 4, Jesus had just told the Parable of the Sower to a large crowd. However, He didn’t immediately explain its meaning to them. He simply told the story and left it at that. Later, when He was alone, His disciples and a few others came to Him and asked for the meaning of the parable (Mark 4:10).

Jesus then responded:

“To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables,
so that ‘they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.’” (Mark 4:11–12, ESV)

Jesus was quoting Isaiah 6:9–10, where God tells Isaiah that the people’s hearts are hardened, and though they hear, they won’t understand.

Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables?

At first glance, it seems like Jesus was trying to hide the truth. But His intention wasn’t to deliberately withhold salvation. Rather, He used parables as a filter — to separate those truly seeking God from those who were just curious or entertained by miracles.

The crowds followed Jesus for different reasons. Many were fascinated by His miracles (John 6:2), but few were genuinely seeking the truth. Parables required listeners to reflect, to hunger for deeper understanding, and to approach Jesus privately for clarification — just as the disciples did.

God Reveals Truth to the Hungry

God never forces truth on anyone. He reveals more of Himself to those who genuinely desire Him:

“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13, ESV)

“For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” (Luke 19:26, ESV)

The people who didn’t pursue Jesus after hearing the parables essentially demonstrated that they weren’t interested in the truth. As a result, their spiritual blindness remained — not because Jesus wanted them blind, but because they had already chosen to shut their eyes.

Self-Hardened Hearts

The deeper issue lies in the condition of the heart. Consider what Paul says when quoting the same passage from Isaiah:

“…‘You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.’
For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.”
(Acts 28:26–27, ESV)

Notice the phrase: “they have closed” their eyes. Their spiritual blindness is not imposed upon them by God arbitrarily — it is self-inflicted. When people consistently reject truth, God may eventually give them over to their own delusions:

“…because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false…”
(2 Thessalonians 2:10–11, ESV)

A Warning to Us Today

This is a sobering warning to all of us: Grace is not to be taken lightly. The opportunity to repent and believe is a gift, not a guarantee. The right time to respond to the gospel is now:

“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2, ESV)

To delay, to reject, or to treat God’s Word with casualness is spiritually dangerous. There may come a time when the heart becomes too hard to respond.

Conclusion

Jesus didn’t use parables to keep people from salvation — rather, He used them to reveal who truly had ears to hear. Those who humbled themselves and sought Him were given understanding. Those who closed their hearts received no more light, just as they had chosen.

Let us therefore respond to the voice of God with humility, seeking His truth while it may still be found.

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” (Hebrews 3:15, ESV)

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THE GARMENT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR EACH OF US

Understanding the Restoration of Humanity through Christ

1. The Fall and the Awareness of Shame

In Genesis 3, we read the account of humanity’s first disobedience. Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, which God had explicitly forbidden.

Genesis 3:6-7 (NIV)
“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye… she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband… Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.”

Notice that their first response wasn’t remorse for breaking God’s command—it was the realization of their nakedness. Their focus was on physical exposure, not spiritual rebellion. Shame entered the human experience, and they instinctively tried to cover themselves instead of confessing to God.

This shows us that sin not only separates us from God spiritually but also corrupts our view of ourselves. The human body, once a reflection of innocence, now became a symbol of guilt.

2. Separation from God and Fear

Their sense of shame led to fear and hiding:

Genesis 3:10 (NIV)
“He answered, ‘I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.’”

For the first time, mankind was afraid of God. The intimate fellowship between the Creator and His creation was broken. The fig leaves weren’t enough to remove the shame or restore relationship. Covering the body didn’t deal with the real issue—sin.

3. God’s First Act of Redemption: A Temporary Covering

Although their own attempt at covering failed, God, in His mercy, made garments of animal skin for them:

Genesis 3:21 (NIV)
“The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.”

This act hinted at a deeper theological truth: atonement requires a sacrifice. Blood had to be shed for them to be properly covered—a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

4. The Need for a New Nature – A Heavenly Garment

Despite being clothed, the inner problem of sin remained. Paul explains that our earthly bodies are temporary and corrupted by sin, but God has prepared something far greater:

2 Corinthians 5:1-3 (NIV)
“For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God… we long to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.”

The apostle Paul refers to the “heavenly dwelling” or “garment” that believers will receive—a resurrected, glorified body that is not subject to sin, shame, or death.

5. Why Our Earthly Bodies Can’t Enter God’s Presence

Our current bodies are not fit for God’s holy presence. As Paul explains, the natural body is perishable and must be changed:

1 Corinthians 15:50-53 (NIV)
“I declare to you… that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God… For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.”

This transformation will take place at the return of Christ—what we call the Rapture. Believers will receive new, immortal bodies that are free from sin and perfectly suited for eternal communion with God.

6. The Return of Christ and the Rapture

Jesus promised He would return for His people:

John 14:2-3 (NIV)
“I am going there to prepare a place for you… I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Paul gives further detail:

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV)
“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive… will be caught up together with them… to meet the Lord in the air.”

At this moment, the believers’ transformation will be complete—clothed in glorified bodies, finally free from the curse of sin and shame.

7. A Personal Call to Readiness

The signs of the end times, as described in Matthew 24, are being fulfilled rapidly. The final prophetic event—the Rapture—could happen at any moment. The question is:

Are you ready?

If Jesus were to return tonight, would you be taken up with Him, or would you be left behind to face judgment and the tribulation under the Antichrist?

The time for delay is over. Don’t wait for a perfect sermon or a dramatic sign to turn to Christ. The Bible says:

Hebrews 3:15 (NIV)
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”

8. How to Receive the Garment of Salvation

The invitation is simple, but profound:

Romans 10:9 (NIV)
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Receive Him. Believe. Repent. Begin a relationship with Christ today so that when He returns, you’ll be among those clothed in His righteousness, ready to stand before God without shame.

 Maranatha – The Lord is Coming

God has prepared a heavenly garment for each one of us—a new, glorified body. It’s not found through religion, good deeds, or earthly effort. It’s found through faith in Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

May we live with expectation, urgency, and hope. Share this message. Encourage others. Stay awake and be ready.

Revelation 22:20 (NIV)
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”

Maranatha.

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What is the meaning of God created mankind upright ?(Ecclesiastes 7:29)

 
Ecclesiastes 7:29 (NIV): “This only have I found: God created mankind upright, but they have gone in search of many schemes.”

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When Did the War in Revelation 12 Happen?

Understanding the Timing and Nature of the War in Revelation 12:7–12

Revelation 12:7–9 (ESV)
“Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven.”

This dramatic passage depicts a celestial conflict. But when did this war take place? And what does it mean for believers today?

The Bible teaches that two major spiritual battles involving Satan have occurred (or will occur):

1. The First War: Before the Creation of Humankind

This war took place in heaven before Adam and Eve were created. It involved Lucifer (Satan) rebelling against God, aspiring to be like the Most High (Isaiah 14:12–15; Ezekiel 28:12–17).

Isaiah 14:13–14 (ESV)
“You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven… I will make myself like the Most High.’”

Because of this prideful rebellion, Lucifer and the angels who followed him were cast out of their position of authority.

Luke 10:18 (ESV)
“And he said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.’”

Though Satan lost his dwelling among the holy angels, he still had limited access to God’s throne to bring accusations against God’s people — just like a disgraced official still has the legal right to argue a case in court.

Job 1:6 (ESV)
“Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them.”

2. The Second War: Between Christ’s Resurrection and the End Times

The second war — the one specifically referenced in Revelation 12:7–12 — began after Jesus’ death and resurrection, and it continues into the present spiritual realm. It culminates in Satan’s total exclusion from heaven.

Revelation 12:10 (ESV)
“And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.’”

In this spiritual courtroom, Satan constantly accuses believers, while Jesus serves as their advocate.

1 John 2:1 (ESV)
“But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

This phase of the battle focuses on Satan’s accusations versus the intercession of Christ and the testimony of God’s people.

How Believers Overcome Satan

Revelation reveals how God’s people conquer:

Revelation 12:11 (ESV)
“And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.”

Victory is not by personal merit, but:

  • By the blood of Jesus – securing forgiveness and righteousness (Hebrews 9:14).
  • By their testimony – faithful witness and commitment to truth.
  • By sacrificial love – not clinging to earthly life, even unto martyrdom.

John 12:25 (ESV)
“Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”

What Happens After Satan Is Cast Out Completely?

Revelation 12:12 (ESV)
“Therefore, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!”

Once believers are raptured and Satan loses access to heaven entirely, he will shift his fury to earth. He will:

  • Persecute Israel (the “woman with child” in Revelation 12:1–6).
  • Attack remaining believers (those who missed the rapture but now refuse the mark of the beast).

Revelation 12:17 (ESV)
“Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring… those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.”

This ushers in the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21), when the Antichrist will rule and oppress for three and a half years.

Revelation 13:5 (ESV)
“And the beast was given a mouth uttering haughty and blasphemous words… and it was allowed to exercise authority for forty-two months.”

A Call to Holiness and Urgency

Many call themselves Christians today, but:

  • Secret sin (adultery, theft, anger, pride) gives Satan a legal basis to accuse.
  • Lukewarm faith can lead to being left behind during the rapture (Matthew 25:1–13).

Hebrews 12:14 (ESV)
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”

If you’re compromising with sin now — you won’t survive the suffering of the Great Tribulation.

Romans 13:11 (ESV)
“For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.”

What Must You Do Today?

To escape the wrath to come and stand victorious in Christ:

  1. Believe in Jesus Christ
    That He died for your sins and rose again (Romans 10:9).
  2. Repent
    Turn away from sin and commit to a new life (Acts 3:19).
  3. Be baptized
    By immersion, in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3–4).
  4. Receive the Holy Spirit
    To empower you to live in holiness (Acts 1:8; John 16:13).
  5. Live ready and faithful
    Stay watchful and obedient. Don’t let anything hinder your relationship with God.

Matthew 24:44 (ESV)
“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

 The War Is Real — But So Is the Victory

Satan’s war is spiritual, ongoing, and escalating — but Christ has already provided victory for those who trust and follow Him.

Romans 8:1 (ESV)
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

If you’re not yet saved, don’t delay. Tomorrow is not promised.

Accept Christ, live holy, and stand firm.
Share this truth with others.

The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all. Amen.

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“And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.”

— 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (NIV)

Doing good can sometimes feel unrewarding. You might help others, give generously, offer your time and resources—and still feel overlooked, unappreciated, or even used. Yet Scripture reminds us that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.

Doing Good is Often Costly—and That’s the Point

True goodness often involves sacrifice. Biblical “good” isn’t just being nice; it’s self-giving love that mirrors God’s heart. When you give without expecting anything in return, you are practicing agape—the unconditional love described in 1 Corinthians 13.

Examples of this kind of goodness include:

  • Helping the vulnerable, like orphans and the poor (James 1:27).
  • Sacrificing your own comfort to uplift others (Philippians 2:3–4).
  • Teaching, mentoring, or giving to those who cannot repay you (Luke 14:12–14).
  • Sharing the Gospel without expecting praise or reward (Matthew 10:8).

These acts reflect God’s heart. Jesus Himself said,
“…whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

You May Grow Weary—but Stay the Course

God understands that doing good can be tiring. That’s why we’re reminded again and again not to give up.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

The Apostle Paul knew firsthand the hardships of serving others. Yet he taught that perseverance in doing good reflects genuine faith (Romans 2:6–7). Every act of goodness is a seed. It may take time, but it will bear fruit.

A Real-Life Example: Mordecai’s Story (Esther 6)

Mordecai once saved King Xerxes by exposing an assassination plot, but he received no immediate reward. Time passed—he was forgotten. But at a crucial moment, the king couldn’t sleep and ordered the royal records to be read. That night, he rediscovered Mordecai’s deed and chose to honor him publicly.

This story reveals a deeper spiritual truth:
God does not forget the faithful acts of His people. Even when it seems like nothing is happening, God is working behind the scenes.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
— Hebrews 6:10 (NIV)

The Eternal Perspective

Paul writes in Romans 2:6–10 (NIV):

“God ‘will repay each person according to what they have done.’ To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life… glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good.”

In God’s economy, doing good is never wasted. It may not bring fame or riches in this life, but it stores up eternal reward.

Jesus Himself said:
“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” — Matthew 6:20 (NIV)

So What Should You Do?

  • Keep doing good even when it’s hard.
  • Encourage the weak in faith (Romans 15:1).
  • Pray for others, especially those who struggle (James 5:16).
  • Share the message of salvation (Romans 10:14–15).
  • Be a light in dark places (Matthew 5:16).

Ask yourself: What good am I doing for God—not just for people, but for His glory?

Conclusion: God Sees, God Rewards

Don’t lose heart. Whether you’re planting seeds through kindness, generosity, or truth-telling, God sees—and in His time, He will reward.

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

Share the Message

If this has encouraged you, consider sharing it with someone who may be close to giving up. Let’s keep each other strong in doing what is good—for the glory of God.

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The Difference Between Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge in the Bible

Answer:

  1. Knowledge:
    Knowledge, in a biblical sense, refers to the awareness and understanding of God’s will, truths, and creation. It is the foundational understanding we gain from studying the Scriptures, life experiences, and teachings. Knowledge is about learning the facts, truth, and the nature of God.

    knowledge in the Bible is often tied to the concept of salvation and spiritual growth. In Hosea 4:6 (NIV), the Bible warns, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.” This suggests that without understanding God’s will, His people are vulnerable to spiritual decline. The lack of knowledge leads to destruction, and this knowledge is essential for spiritual maturity.

    Furthermore, in 2 Peter 1:5 (NKJV), we are told, “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge.” This verse highlights that knowledge is part of a believer’s growth in the Christian life, built upon faith and virtue. It is not enough to simply believe; knowledge helps guide and deepen our faith.

    Application: The knowledge of God and His Word helps protect us from error, guides our actions, and leads us to a more intimate relationship with Him. It begins with studying God’s Word (the Bible) and seeking understanding from wise teachers.

  2. Wisdom:
    Wisdom, according to Scripture, is more than just the accumulation of knowledge. It is the ability to apply God’s knowledge correctly in daily life. Wisdom helps a person make the right decisions, discern truth from error, and navigate life’s challenges in a godly manner.

    wisdom is often seen as a gift from God. Solomon’s request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9 (NKJV) is a prime example: “Give therefore Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil.” God answered Solomon’s request and granted him extraordinary wisdom. Theologically, wisdom comes from God and is essential for righteous living.

    Proverbs 2:6 (ESV) also emphasizes the importance of wisdom: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Here, wisdom is described as a divine gift that comes directly from God, and it is intertwined with both

  3. knowledge and understandin Wisdom allows believers to not only understand what is right but also to live it out. For example, when Solomon used divine wisdom to settle the dispute between the two women in 1 Kings 3:16-18, he demonstrated how wisdom enables the application of knowledge in complex and challenging situations.
  1. Understanding:
    Understanding is the ability to grasp the meaning of knowledge and the wisdom to apply it correctly. It involves comprehension and insight that helps one perceive deeper truths.

    , understanding is tied to spiritual insight and the ability to discern God’s will clearly. In Proverbs 2:2-6 (ESV), we are encouraged to “make your ear attentive to wisdom and incline your heart to understanding.” Understanding enables us to see the deeper meaning of God’s Word and His plans for our lives.

    Job 28:28 (NIV) captures the essence of biblical understanding: “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” This verse teaches that true understanding comes from the fear of the Lord, which is a foundational theme throughout the Bible. Understanding allows us to live in a way that aligns with God’s character and purposes.

    To live according to God’s will, one must have understanding. It helps us make wise decisions and choose paths that honor God. Without understanding, we would lack the ability to properly apply both wisdom and knowledge in our lives.

How These Concepts Are Related:

All three—Knowledge, Wisdom, and Understanding—work together to shape a Christian’s life. They are interconnected:

  • Knowledge provides the foundation of facts and truths about God and His Word.
  • Wisdom is the ability to apply that knowledge effectively in our decisions and actions.
  • Understanding is the deeper comprehension that helps us see the meaning and significance of God’s Word and plan for our lives.

these three concepts are necessary for a complete spiritual life. God desires us to grow in all three, which is why He provides these gifts through His Word and the Holy Spirit.

  • Hosea 4:6 (NIV) – “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Knowledge is essential for spiritual life and protection.
  • 2 Peter 1:5 (NKJV) – “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge.” Knowledge is a critical part of a Christian’s growth in faith.
  • Proverbs 2:6 (ESV) – “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Wisdom is a divine gift that flows from God.
  • 1 Kings 3:9 (NKJV) – “Give therefore Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people.” Wisdom is vital for just judgment and making righteous decisions.
  • Job 28:28 (NIV) – “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” Understanding begins with reverence for God and leads to righteous living.

All three—Knowledge, Wisdom, and Understanding—are vital aspects of the Christian life. God desires His people to possess these qualities so that we can live according to His will. Through knowledge, we understand who God is; through wisdom, we make godly choices; and through understanding, we comprehend the deeper meaning of His Word and how to apply it in our lives. God provides all of these through His Word and the Holy Spirit, and it is through seeking Him that we gain them.

Shalom.

Feel free to share this good news with others.

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