In the Bible, the ephod appears in two primary contexts first, as a sacred garment used in worship, and second, as an object that later became misused in idolatry. Let’s explore both, and understand why King David needed it when seeking God.
The ephod was originally a divinely ordained garment, worn by the High Priest and Levitical priests in the Old Testament. It was designed specifically for ministry in the presence of God.
Exodus 28:4 (ESV):
“These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.”
The ephod was made of fine linen interwoven with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarns (Exodus 28:6–14). It included shoulder pieces and a waistband, and later, the breastplate of judgment which contained the Urim and Thummim for divine consultation was attached to it (Exodus 28:30).
The ephod was thus not only a ceremonial garment, but a medium through which the High Priest could inquire of God especially using the Urim and Thummim (see Leviticus 8:7–8; Numbers 27:21).
Even though the ephod was mainly for priests, others wore simpler versions—like linen ephods as expressions of devotion.
1 Samuel 2:18 (NIV):
“But Samuel was ministering before the Lord a boy wearing a linen ephod.”
Later, David though not a priest wore a linen ephod when worshiping God during the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant.
2 Samuel 6:14 (ESV):
“And David danced before the Lord with all his might. And David was wearing a linen ephod.”
David’s wearing of the ephod here shows his desire to lead in worship with sincerity and humility before the Lord, breaking cultural and royal protocol to express full devotion.
David also used the ephod to seek divine direction during times of crisis. Since the ephod was connected with the priest’s ability to consult God (especially via Urim and Thummim), it became a tool David valued during his life on the run.
1 Samuel 23:9–12 (NIV):
“When David learned that Saul was plotting against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring the ephod.’ David said, ‘Lord, God of Israel… will Saul come down?’ … The Lord said, ‘He will.’”
Again, in 1 Samuel 30:7–8, when the Amalekites raided Ziklag:
“Then David said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring me the ephod.’ Abiathar brought it, and David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?’ ‘Pursue them,’ he answered.”
The ephod here symbolizes a desire to seek God’s will, not through guesswork, but through divine revelation mediated through the priest.
Despite its sacred origin, the ephod was later corrupted. After victory over the Midianites, Gideon made an ephod from gold, which tragically became an object of idol worship.
Judges 8:27 (NIV):
“Gideon made the gold into an ephod, which he placed in Ophrah, his town. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family.”
This misuse reveals how even God-ordained objects can become idols when they replace or distract from true worship.
No. Today, we no longer need physical garments like the ephod to access God. The ephod was a shadow of something greater fulfilled completely in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.
Hebrews 4:14–16 (NIV):
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess… Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence.”
Through Christ, we no longer need to rely on garments, priests, or sacred objects to seek God’s will. Christ is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), and through His righteousness, we are clothed spiritually.
Just as priests had to wear holy garments to serve, we too must be spiritually clothed in Christ to approach God.
Romans 13:14 (ESV):
“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”
To “wear Christ” means to live a life transformed by repentance, faith, and holiness. Jesus Himself gave a warning:
Revelation 16:15 (NIV):
“Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”
The ephod in the Old Testament was a powerful symbol of drawing near to God. David sought it not for fashion, but for access to divine counsel. Today, through Jesus Christ, we have greater access to God than David or any High Priest ever had.
You don’t need an ephod you need Jesus. Repent, believe in Him, be baptized, and live a holy life. He is the true and better ephod, making us holy and acceptable before the Father.
May the Lord bless you and draw you closer to Himself.
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Shalom! May the blessed name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, be glorified forever.
Welcome to this Bible study. Let us open our hearts to the living Word of God, which brings light, discernment, and truth to His people in these last days.
In 1 Kings 13, we read a sobering story of a true prophet sent by God to rebuke King Jeroboam of Israel. Jeroboam had led Israel into idolatry by setting up golden calves and false altars (1 Kings 12:28–33). God, in His mercy, sent a prophet from Judah with a divine message of judgment.
After delivering the prophecy, the man of God was commanded by the Lord not to eat or drink, nor return the way he came. His obedience was to be total.
1 Kings 13:9 (NKJV)“For so it was commanded me by the word of the Lord, saying, ‘You shall not eat bread, nor drink water, nor return by the same way you came.’”
But as the man of God departed, an old prophet from Bethel intercepted him and lied, claiming that an angel had spoken to him and instructed him to bring the man back to his house for food and water.
1 Kings 13:18 (ESV)“And he said to him, ‘I also am a prophet as you are, and an angel spoke to me by the word of the Lord, saying, Bring him back with you into your house that he may eat bread and drink water.’ But he lied to him.”
Tragically, the man of God disobeyed God’s explicit command. While still in the old prophet’s home, the Word of the Lord came (this time genuinely), and the disobedient prophet was rebuked for violating God’s instruction.
Soon after, he was killed by a lion as a divine judgment (1 Kings 13:24), and his body was left on the road—neither buried among his ancestors nor honored. This shows how partial obedience is still disobedience, and disobedience to God’s clear word leads to judgment—even for those who were once faithful.
This story isn’t just history—it is prophetic warning for believers today. We are in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1), and many sincere Christians are being misled by so-called prophets and preachers who speak in the name of the Lord yet contradict His Word.
These modern false prophets may:
Perform miracles (Matthew 7:22),
Prophesy accurately (Matthew 24:24),
Use the name of Jesus powerfully—yet still be lawless and unapproved by God.
Matthew 7:21–23 (NIV):“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven… Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name…?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Just as the old prophet still heard from God, today we see false teachers who preach, prophesy, and even work miracles—yet live in sin, compromise, and deception. This shows us that spiritual gifts do not equate to godly character or divine approval.
Romans 11:29 (ESV):“For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.”
God may still use people for a purpose, but that does not mean He approves of their behavior.
Jesus made it clear: following Him means self-denial and holiness.
Luke 9:23 (NKJV):“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Hebrews 12:14 (ESV):“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
So when anyone—whether a prophet, pastor, or preacher—tells you that holiness doesn’t matter, or says things like:
“God doesn’t care how you dress.”
“There’s no need to repent of your lifestyle.”
“Living with someone you’re not married to is not sin.”
“Worldliness is acceptable in the church…”
Beware! That person is leading you back to “Bethel”—to disobedience—just like the lying prophet.
We are not called to follow signs and wonders, but to test all things by the Word of God.
Isaiah 8:20 (NKJV):“To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”
Even if a prophet performs miraculous signs but teaches anything that contradicts the Word of God, we are commanded to reject them.
Deuteronomy 13:1–3 (NIV):“If a prophet… appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, and the prophet says, ‘Let us follow other gods’… you must not listen to the words of that prophet…”
Signs can deceive. Truth is always consistent with the written Word of God.
Some preachers say today:
“Wearing tight clothes or revealing outfits is not a sin—it’s your heart that matters.”
But Scripture says otherwise:
1 Timothy 2:9–10 (NIV):“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety… with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
If anyone tells you drunkenness or sexual sin is acceptable, reject that lie:
Ephesians 5:17–18 (ESV):“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
If anyone tells you that Christ’s return is distant or irrelevant, remember:
Matthew 24:44 (NIV):“So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
Believers are commanded to test all spirits and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
1 John 4:1 (ESV):“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Let God’s Word—not experiences, emotions, or miracles—be your compass. The prophet in 1 Kings 13 began in obedience but ended in destruction because he failed to hold fast to God’s Word
In these last days, deception is increasing. Do not follow those who twist Scripture or justify sin, even if they appear spiritual or perform miracles. God is looking for those who will worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24)—with obedience, purity, and reverence.
Let us return to the simplicity of the gospel, the authority of Scripture, and the fear of the Lord.
Psalm 119:105 (ESV):“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Let God’s Word be your foundation, your standard, and your protection.
May the Lord bless you and keep you in His truth. Amen.
Many people are troubled when they see the wicked prosper and live in peace while the righteous suffer. But Scripture shows us that God, in His sovereign wisdom, sometimes allows even the wicked to experience protection, success, and long life. This is not because He condones sin, but because He is patient, giving space for repentance (2 Peter 3:9). The story of Cain illustrates this well.
After Cain killed his brother Abel, God cursed him, declaring that he would become a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth. But when Cain cried out, fearing for his life, God responded—not with more punishment, but with protection:
Genesis 4:14–15 (NKJV):“Surely You have driven me out this day from the face of the ground; I shall be hidden from Your face; I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth, and it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me.”And the Lord said to him, “Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord set a mark on Cain, lest anyone finding him should kill him.
Though Cain committed the first murder in human history, God still placed a mark on him to shield him from harm. This sevenfold vengeance meant severe punishment on anyone who took justice into their own hands. This act reveals God’s attribute of divine restraint and forbearance (Romans 2:4), even toward sinners.
It’s important to note: Cain did not repent. He feared the consequences, but not the sin itself. Yet still, God responded in mercy. This foreshadows a New Testament truth: God sends rain on the just and the unjust (Matthew 5:45), showing His general grace to all people—even those who resist Him.
The spirit of rebellion continued in Cain’s lineage. One of his descendants, Lamech, was even more violent and boastful. He killed a man simply for wounding him, and then invoked God’s protection upon himself, amplifying it:
Genesis 4:23–24 (NKJV):“Then Lamech said to his wives:‘Adah and Zillah, hear my voice;Wives of Lamech, listen to my speech!For I have killed a man for wounding me,Even a young man for hurting me.If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold,Then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.’”
This is not humility—it’s pride cloaked in theology. Lamech presumed that God’s justice system could be manipulated. He took God’s mercy toward Cain as a license to sin without consequence. This attitude reflects what Paul warned about in Romans:
Romans 6:1 (NKJV):“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?”“Certainly not!” (Romans 6:2a)
Lamech distorted God’s mercy into a justification for violence. It shows the danger of misusing divine patience—an ancient form of what today we might call “cheap grace”—receiving grace without true repentance or transformation.
Because of such arrogance and unchecked sin, the human race rapidly spiraled into widespread wickedness. Violence, corruption, and rebellion filled the earth.
Genesis 6:5–7 (NKJV):“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.”
Despite God’s patience, judgment eventually came in the form of the great flood. Only Noah, a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5), and his family were saved. The rest of humanity perished, not only physically but spiritually. Jesus Himself referenced this historical event as a picture of the final judgment:
Matthew 24:37–39 (NKJV):“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”
So why does God allow the wicked to flourish? The answer lies in His patience and desire for repentance:
Ecclesiastes 8:11 (NKJV):“Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.”
And again:
Romans 2:4 (NKJV):“Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?”
Just because someone is prospering materially does not mean God is pleased with their lifestyle. Many will enjoy worldly peace, only to be suddenly overtaken by judgment:
1 Thessalonians 5:3 (NKJV):“For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.”
We are now living in a generation that surpasses even the days of Noah in wickedness—despite having full access to the gospel, the Bible, and centuries of God’s revealed truth.
Jesus gave a sharp warning to Capernaum, a city that saw many miracles but did not repent:
Matthew 11:23–24 (NKJV):“And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.”
If people who saw Christ in the flesh and still rejected Him will face harsher judgment, how much more severe will it be for those of us who have the full gospel and continue in rebellion?
Friend, do not be deceived by temporary peace or the absence of visible consequences. Prosperity is not proof of God’s approval. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). You may be enjoying protection, health, and success while still living in sin—but that will not last forever.
Hebrews 10:31 (NKJV):“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
Examine your life. Repent of sin. Do not waste God’s mercy. Come to Christ and be made new. He is still willing to forgive and save.
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV):“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
Maranatha!The Lord is coming soon. Are you ready?
May God give us all grace to live as those eagerly awaiting His return—not abusing His mercy, but honoring it with lives of holiness.
One of the commonly asked theological questions is:“Was Judas really guilty of sin for betraying Jesus, considering his betrayal was foretold in prophecy?”
This question touches on the relationship between divine foreknowledge and human responsibility, a subject of great depth in Christian theology.
It is true that Scripture contains many prophecies—some concerning those who will be saved, and others about those who will be lost. But we must understand that God’s foreknowledge does not override human free will. The fact that something is foretold does not mean the person involved had no choice.
Isaiah 46:10 – “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure.’”
God’s sovereignty allows Him to know all things in advance, but He still holds each individual accountable for their decisions. This includes Judas Iscariot.
Scripture speaks of two groups in the final judgment—those who will inherit eternal life and those who will face condemnation.
Matthew 8:11 – “And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.”
This prophecy refers to Gentiles who will enter the kingdom by faith, showing that salvation is open to all people groups.
Matthew 7:22–23 – “Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name…? And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”
This demonstrates that not everyone who claims to follow Christ will be saved, especially those who live in disobedience to His Word.
Despite these prophecies, God does not predetermine individual names in Scripture. He never says, “This specific person will be lost,” or “That person will be saved.” Instead, the Bible reveals the types of people, their choices, and the outcomes of those choices.
2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise… but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
Salvation is available to everyone. The decision rests with us.
The betrayal of Jesus was prophesied, but again, no name was mentioned. The prophecy identified the character and actions of the betrayer, not his identity.
Psalm 41:9 – “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.”
Jesus quoted this prophecy in John 13:18, applying it to His betrayal. Yet, this prophecy could have been fulfilled by any of the twelve disciples—it depended on who would allow their heart to be corrupted by greed and disobedience.
Judas made conscious, repeated decisions that aligned with betrayal. He was the group’s treasurer and misused his position.
John 12:6 – “…he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.”
Even when Jesus warned that one of them would betray Him, Judas didn’t turn back or seek forgiveness. This shows willful rebellion despite knowledge of the truth.
Matthew 26:24 – “The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.”
These are not the words of a man who was merely playing out a role. Jesus declares severe judgment upon Judas, proving his personal guilt.
In the end, Judas acknowledged his own sin, but his repentance was filled with remorse, not transformation.
Matthew 27:4–5 – “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood… Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.”
His story is a tragic example of a man who walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, heard His teachings—and yet chose darkness.
The story of Judas is a warning for us all. Judas is gone—but now the spotlight is on our generation. What role will we play in fulfilling prophecy?
Paul wrote about the character of people in the last days:
2 Timothy 3:1–5 –“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money…traitors… lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,having a form of godliness but denying its power.”
The word “traitors” is particularly striking. Judas was one. But in the last days, many will fall into this category—people who claim to follow God outwardly, but whose hearts are far from Him.
If we live in pride, greed, lust, or hypocrisy, we become modern-day fulfillers of that prophecy. In that case, we are not better than Judas—we may even be worse.
Hebrews 10:26–27 –“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,but a certain fearful expectation of judgment…”
So, which prophecy will you fulfill?
Will you be counted among those who sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven?
Or will you be among those who are told, “Depart from Me, I never knew you”?
The choice is yours. As with Judas, God will not force anyone. But He has given us everything we need for salvation through Christ Jesus.
Deuteronomy 30:19 – “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.”
Judas was guilty because he chose betrayal, despite every opportunity to do what was right. The prophecy was fulfilled through him—not because of him. He was not a puppet; he was a free agent.
Let his story serve as a solemn warning to each of us today. Let us not fulfill the prophecy of the wicked, but rather fulfill the prophecy of the righteous.
Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
May the Lord Jesus Christ strengthen us to remain faithful, alert, and obedient until the end.
Understanding the ministry of the Holy Spirit is essential for every believer. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force or mere influence—He is the third Person of the Godhead, fully God, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Son. He is the very presence of God among and within His people.
Before we explore the three primary works of the Holy Spirit in the world, we must understand how God has progressively revealed Himself through three dispensations or manifestations:
In the Old Covenant, God spoke from above as the Father—revealing Himself through prophets, the Law, and divine visitations (Hebrews 1:1).
In the Incarnation, God came among us through Jesus Christ, Emmanuel—God in the flesh (John 1:14; Matthew 1:23).
In the New Covenant, God now speaks within us through the indwelling Holy Spirit (John 14:17; Romans 8:9).
Each stage brought humanity closer to the fullness of divine communion. The final stage—through the Holy Spirit—is the most intimate and powerful, for God no longer merely walks beside us; He resides in our hearts.
Hebrews 1:1-2 “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…”
Hebrews 1:1-2
“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…”
1Corinthians 3:16 “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” —
1Corinthians 3:16
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” —
The role of the Holy Spirit was prophesied throughout the Old Testament (Ezekiel 36:26–27; Joel 2:28–29) and fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), when the Church was born through the outpouring of the Spirit.
Let us now examine the three central works of the Holy Spirit, as revealed by Jesus Christ in John 16:8–11.
John 16:8–9 (NKJV) “And when He has come, He will convict the world concerning sin, and righteousness, and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me.” —
John 16:8–9 (NKJV)
“And when He has come, He will convict the world concerning sin, and righteousness, and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me.” —
The word “convict” here (Greek: elenchō) means to expose, reprove, or bring to light guilt. The Holy Spirit reveals the true nature of sin—not just as bad behavior, but as unbelief in the Son of God.
Adam’s disobedience introduced sin into the world (Romans 5:12), but the greatest sin in the New Testament is rejection of Jesus Christ, the only Savior (John 3:18). Unbelief keeps the heart hardened and alienated from the grace of God.
John 3:18 (ESV) “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”
John 3:18 (ESV)
“Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”
All outward sins—adultery, theft, idolatry, witchcraft, murder—are symptoms of the inward sin of rebellion and unbelief. The Holy Spirit exposes the root of sin and leads the heart to repentance and saving faith.
At Pentecost, after the Holy Spirit was poured out, Peter preached about the crucifixion of Christ. Those who heard were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37) and asked what they should do. Over 3,000 souls were saved that day (Acts 2:41). This was the direct result of the Holy Spirit convicting hearts of sin.
In contrast, when Jesus preached similar messages during His earthly ministry, many rejected Him (John 12:37–40), because the Spirit had not yet been given to dwell within people.
John 16:10 (NKJV) “…concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see Me no longer.” —
“…concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see Me no longer.” —
The Holy Spirit reveals true righteousness—not the self-righteousness of human effort or the Law (Isaiah 64:6; Philippians 3:9), but the imputed righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
2Corinthians 5:21 (ESV) “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” —
2Corinthians 5:21 (ESV)
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” —
During His earthly ministry, Jesus did not fully unveil the doctrine of righteousness by faith. Even His disciples believed salvation was reserved only for Jews (see Matthew 10:5–6). Jesus hinted at a wider plan, but their spiritual immaturity prevented them from understanding.
John 16:12 (ESV) “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.” —
John 16:12 (ESV)
“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.” —
It was the Holy Spirit who later revealed this mystery:
To Peter, through the vision of unclean animals and the conversion of Cornelius (Acts 10–11).To Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, who explained justification by grace through faith apart from the works of the Law (Romans 3:21–28; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8–9)
Ephesians 3:6 (ESV) “This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” —
Ephesians 3:6 (ESV)
“This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” —
The righteousness revealed by the Spirit is not earned—it is received by faith in Jesus, made possible because He returned to the Father and sent the Spirit to guide us into all truth (John 16:13).
John 16:11 (NKJV) “…concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”
John 16:11 (NKJV)
“…concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”
The “ruler of this world” refers to Satan (cf. John 12:31; Ephesians 2:2). At the cross, Jesus triumphed over Satan and stripped him of authority (Colossians 2:15). His resurrection sealed Satan’s defeat.
John 12:31 (ESV) “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out.” — Colossians 2:15 (NKJV)
John 12:31 (ESV)
“Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out.” —
Colossians 2:15 (NKJV)
“Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” —
When Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18), it signified Satan’s loss of dominion over mankind. The Holy Spirit now bears witness that Christ reigns, and that every believer shares in His victory (Romans 16:20; Revelation 12:11).
Satan has been judged, but those who reject Christ align themselves with his kingdom and will share in his eternal punishment (Revelation 20:10, 15). The Holy Spirit warns the world that judgment is real, final, and already underway.
Even the apostle John, who once leaned on Jesus’ chest (John 13:23), later saw Christ in glory and fell at His feet like a dead man (Revelation 1:17). Through the Spirit, he understood the full majesty of the risen King.
1Timothy 6:15 (ESV) “He is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords…” —
1Timothy 6:15 (ESV)
“He is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords…” —
These three works—conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment—comprise the complete testimony of the Holy Spirit to the world.
He continues to bear witness through the Scriptures, through preaching, through Spirit-filled believers, and through the inner conviction of conscience.
Romans 8:16 (ESV) “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” —
Romans 8:16 (ESV)
“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” —
Those who reject this testimony reject God’s clearest revelation. Jesus warned that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit—persistently resisting His work—leads to eternal condemnation (Matthew 12:31–32).
Have you accepted the Holy Spirit’s witness in your heart?
Have you believed in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, repented of your sins, and surrendered your life to 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.” —
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.” —
John 3:5 (ESV “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” —
John 3:5 (ESV
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” —
Baptism should be done by full immersion (John 3:23) and in the name of Jesus Christ, according to apostolic teaching (Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48).
The Holy Spirit longs to live in you. He yearns for your heart even more than you long for His presence (James 4:5). He is drawing you now.
Today, choose to obey. Believe in Jesus. Turn from your sin. Be baptized. Receive the Holy Spirit. Let His voice transform your life and guide you into all truth.
The ministry of the Holy Spirit is God’s final and most complete testimony to the world. He convicts, teaches, empowers, comforts, and guides. His voice is clear. His invitation is urgent.
Hebrews 3:15 (ESV) Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” —
Hebrews 3:15 (ESV)
Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” —
Receive Him today—and walk in the fullness of God’s grace, righteousness, and eternal purpose.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you always. Amen.
This command may seem unusual at first, but when we consider it closely, it reveals profound spiritual truths about faith, dependence on God, and the nature of Christian mission.
Let’s begin by reading the biblical account:
Mark 6:7–10 (ESV):“And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts— but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, ‘Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there.’”
In this moment, Jesus was sending out the Twelve to preach the gospel of the kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out unclean spirits. But He gave them a very specific instruction: take nothing for the journey—except a staff.
Why?
By telling them not to carry bread, money, or extra clothing, Jesus was teaching the disciples to rely entirely on God’s provision through the hospitality of others. Their mission was not a self-sustained expedition, but a divine calling where God would supply what was needed.
This echoes the principle found in the Old Testament:
Psalm 37:25 (ESV):“I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread.”
And Jesus Himself emphasized this kind of trust during the Sermon on the Mount:
Matthew 6:31–33 (ESV):“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’… But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Jesus didn’t want His disciples distracted by logistical concerns. If they waited to raise funds or gather resources, they might delay the mission or approach it with human strategies rather than faith. Their total dependence on God would deepen their trust and display God’s faithfulness to others.
Interestingly, Jesus made one exception—a staff. Why?
A staff in biblical times served multiple purposes. It was:
A support while walking long distances or climbing hills (Psalm 23:4),A defense against wild animals or robbers,A symbol of authority or divine appointment (as with Moses’ staff in Exodus 4:2–5).
Thus, the staff was a practical and symbolic tool. It represented both physical support and spiritual readiness for the journey ahead. While they were not to carry supplies, the staff signified that God allows what is necessary for the journey—but nothing excessive.
Psalm 23:4 (ESV):“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
The staff, then, reminds us that while faith doesn’t eliminate preparation, it redefines it—we are to walk with what God permits, trusting Him for the rest.
Jesus also told them to stay in the first home that welcomed them until they left the area (Mark 6:10). This encouraged contentment and humility, avoiding favoritism or comfort-seeking.
This points to the early Church model, where hospitality became a foundational practice of Christian community (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2). It also trained the disciples to identify and build up believers who would support the mission.
Later in Jesus’ ministry, He reminded them of this experience:
Luke 22:35 (ESV):“And he said to them, ‘When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?’ They said, ‘Nothing.’”
Their testimony was powerful—they lacked nothing. This proved that God’s provision is sufficient when we obey His call. The same truth applies to us today. When God sends, He also sustains.
Philippians 4:19 (ESV):“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Though we may not live in the exact conditions of the early disciples, the principle remains: when God sends you on a mission—whether to share the gospel, serve others, or begin a ministry—He wants you to walk by faith, not fear.
We are not called to wait until all circumstances are perfect. We are called to trust and obey, knowing that God will open doors, provide resources, and protect us as we go.
Hebrews 11:8 (ESV):“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out… And he went out, not knowing where he was going.”
When Jesus said, “Take nothing except a staff,” He was preparing His disciples not only for physical travel, but for a life of faith and dependence on God. The staff symbolized what was necessary; everything else would be provided.
Even now, the Lord still sends His people with this same mindset. Let us trust Him fully, step out in obedience, and be assured that just as He provided for the Twelve, He will never fail us either.
May the Lord Jesus bless you and give you the courage to walk by faith.
Don’t Take Pleasure in Your Sin While You Are Still in It
Jeremiah 48:11-12“Moab has been at ease from his youth and has settled on its lees; it has not been poured from vessel to vessel, nor has it gone into exile. Therefore its taste remains in it, and its aroma has not changed.12 But behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will send my destroyers against them. They will empty her vessels and break her jars in pieces.”
Do you know what “lees” are?
Lees are the sediment left after wine fermentation—a mixture of grape skins, seeds, and sometimes tiny impurities from the grapes. After fermentation, the wine is usually poured into other containers for use, leaving the lees behind. While the lees themselves may seem like waste, they actually play a vital role in wine-making. Wine that rests longer on its lees develops richer flavor, better aroma, and more appealing appearance than wine that is moved too quickly.
High-quality wines, like champagne, may stay on their lees for months, even four months or more, to enhance their taste and value.
Now, returning to the verse:
“Moab has been at ease from its youth and has settled on its lees; it has not been poured from vessel to vessel…”
Historically, Moab was a nation that enjoyed peace and prosperity from its beginnings. It rarely experienced serious conflict, famine, or disasters. Yet, despite these blessings, the nation continued in sin and failed to honor God.
The Bible compares Moab to wine resting on lees—prosperous, untroubled, and untouched by hardship. Moab believed nothing bad could ever happen to it, thinking itself specially blessed, while others like Israel faced God’s discipline.
But as verses 11-12 make clear, the time came when God sent destroyers against Moab. Its prosperity vanished suddenly, and its destruction was total. What Moab never expected happened.
Today, you may be living in sin and feel nothing. You may even prosper, thinking God is ignoring your life, believing, “I’m special; nothing can touch me.” But the Bible warns us:
Zephaniah 1:12“At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the people who are settled on their lees, who say in their hearts, ‘The Lord will not do good, nor will He do harm.’”
God sees everything. He will examine you—even if you are thriving in sin. Judgment is real, and life is fragile. You could die suddenly and find yourself in hell, like the rich man in the parable of Lazarus, who lived a life of indulgence without concern for eternity. Then it will be too late to say, “If only I had known.”
Just because God doesn’t seem to act now doesn’t mean He approves of your sin. He may be giving you time to repent, but if you ignore Him, judgment will come, just as it did for Moab.
The time of salvation is now. The opportunity to turn to Jesus is today. Repent from your sins completely, seek baptism by immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and God will give you the gift of His Holy Spirit to guide you every day of your life.
Even if your life has reached a critical point, there is still hope for eternal life.
May the Lord bless you richly.
Please share this good news with others.
REMOVE THE IMPURITIES FROM SILVER, AND A VESSEL WILL EMERGE PURE
Shalom! Welcome—let’s take some time to study God’s Word. The Bible tells us:
Proverbs 25:4)
Remove the dross from the silver, and a vessel will come forth for the refiner.”
When we see gold or other precious metals, they shine brilliantly, often enough to fetch a very high price. But we must not assume that what is mined is already pure. In reality, much of it is mixed with stones, dirt, and various impurities. You may even find a massive rock that contains only a tiny bit of gold or silver.
To extract the pure metal, miners must do extra work—carefully separating the valuable metal from the impurities. Some impurities can be removed simply by washing or sifting, but others require intense heat, as they are deeply embedded in the metal itself.
The miners melt the rock at very high temperatures until it becomes molten. As the metal melts, the impurities rise to the surface and are skimmed away. This process is repeated multiple times, until even the smallest traces of impurities are gone. As this happens, the brilliance of the silver or gold gradually increases, eventually resulting in a beautiful, pure, and valuable final product.
Proverbs 25:4 says:“Remove the dross from the silver, and a vessel will come forth for the refiner.”
In the same way, when we are saved as Christians, we are like precious metals mined from the rock. We are delivered from worldly attachments and impurities that cling to us.
The process of purification can be difficult. God allows us to go through trials, much like fire purifies silver and gold. These trials are not meant to destroy us but to refine us, making us pure and valuable in His sight.
1 Peter 1:6-7 says:“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith—tested by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”
James 1:2-3 reminds us:“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
It is normal for God to allow His children to go through various trials—not to harm us, but to strengthen us.
The Bible also calls us to remove impurities from our own lives. Just as metal must be refined to be valuable, we must rid ourselves of anything in our lives that displeases God, so that He can work in us fully. This applies to our personal lives, our service, and our spiritual walk.
If we want to see God’s work in our lives, we must remove sin and distractions: turn away from sexual immorality, gossip, meaningless online activity, harmful entertainment, hypocrisy, bribery, poor dressing, and other behaviors that do not honor God. By doing this, God will bring out the brilliance in us, making us precious in His sight and in the eyes of the world.
2 Corinthians 7:1 says:“Therefore, 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.”
Removing these impurities requires intentional effort. It’s not passive—it involves denying ourselves and rejecting anything that displeases God. Even if our desires push us toward sin, we resist, choosing holiness over comfort. The reward may not be immediate, but the benefit will be seen in time.
Likewise, in our ministry and service, we must remove wickedness from within the church. We cannot tolerate immorality or false teachings among us. By doing so, God’s power and glory will be revealed among His people.
Proverbs 25:4-5 reminds us:“Remove the dross from the silver, and a vessel will come forth for the refiner; remove the wicked from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established in righteousness.”
May the Lord help us all and bless us abundantly.
Shalom.
Answer: No — there is no verse in the Bible that says the world will be folded up like paper and thrown into fire. The confusion comes from a verse in Isaiah 34:4 which describes cosmic judgment using strong imagery. That verse says:
“All the stars in the sky will be dissolved and the heavens rolled up like a scroll; all the starry host will fall like withered leaves from the vine, like shriveled figs from the fig tree.”
Notice it mentions “the heavens” (the sky), not the earth or the world. And it uses a metaphor — “rolled up like a scroll” — not literally folding paper in our modern sense.
In ancient times, scrolls were rolled up when their message was complete. That image communicates that God’s current order of things will come to an end. It does not literally say the earth will be folded like paper and thrown into fire.
In the New Testament, similar imagery is used in Revelation and Matthew to describe signs associated with the end:
“I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red, and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind.The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.”
This passage is part of a vision of judgment that uses symbolic language to describe cosmic upheaval. It says the heavens will recede like a scroll being rolled up — not that the earth will be folded like paper and thrown into fire.
“Immediately after the distress of those days… the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”
Here Jesus describes the dramatic changes in the sky that will accompany His return — again emphasizing cosmic signs rather than literal folding of the planet or the earth being thrown into fire.
Romans 16:22
“I, Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord.”
ANSWER:The opening verse of Romans clearly tells us who the author is: Paul. In the original greeting, Paul identifies himself as the one sent to share the gospel and writes to the believers in Rome:
“Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God… To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 1:1, 7, ESV)
Paul’s name and authority start the letter, and the whole theological argument of the book reflects his teaching.
You might wonder why someone else’s name appears near the end of the letter. In Romans 16:22, Tertius writes:
“I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord.” (Romans 16:22, ESV/NRSV)
Here, Tertius is not claiming to be the author of the message. He is identifying himself as the scribe or amanuensis—the person who physically wrote the letter as Paul dictated it. That was a normal practice in the first century; authors would speak or dictate their letters, and trained scribes would write them down on papyrus.
This explains how Paul could still be the real author even though Tertius wrote the words on the page. The content, theology, and authority all come from Paul, and Tertius simply transcribed or assisted in producing the text.
In other places Paul mentions writing parts of his letters “with my own hand” (for example, 2 Thessalonians 3:17), which scholars often interpret as a personal signature added after the main body was written by a scribe.
So the best explanation is:
This shows that even in Bible times, believers worked together to accomplish God’s work. Paul provided the message, and Tertius helped put it into writing. May the Lord bless your study!