Question: I’d like to ask about Revelation 21:27, where it says nothing impure will ever enter. What exactly does “impure” mean here? Does it refer to weak people, like those with disabilities?
Revelation 21:27
“Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (NIV)
Answer: The term “impure” in this context does not refer to people with physical disabilities. If it did, then Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:29-30 would contradict this idea. In these verses, Jesus says:
Matthew 5:29-30
“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” (NIV)
If “impure” referred to physical weakness or disabilities, then Jesus would not have said that a disabled person could enter the Kingdom of Heaven, which is obviously not the case. Therefore, “impure” in Revelation 21:27 refers to something more spiritual.
So, what does “impure” mean?
Theological Insight: Biblically, something impure refers to something that lacks moral strength or purity, unable to endure challenges or withstand pressure from the sinful world. In this case, it relates to spiritual purity and endurance. A person who is spiritually weak and unable to resist the temptations and trials of life would be considered “impure” in this context. This concept is reflected in multiple passages throughout Scripture.
1 John 5:4
“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” (NIV)
A spiritually weak person is one who gives in to the world’s sinful influences, while a strong person is one who resists them. This is why Jesus said:
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence, and violent people have been raiding it.” (NIV)
Why does Jesus mention John the Baptist specifically? Jesus’ choice of John the Baptist helps us understand that to enter God’s Kingdom, we must reject the world, just as John did. John lived a life of separation, spending most of his time in the wilderness, away from the temptations of the world. As a result, he grew spiritually strong (Luke 1:80), and his example is one we are called to follow.
Luke 1:80
“And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he was in the desert until the day of his showing unto Israel.” (KJV)
This tells us that overcoming the world is essential for inheriting the Kingdom of God. If we allow the lusts of the flesh, the desires of the world, and the distractions of life to dominate us, we are spiritually weak. Such people will not enter the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21 because only those who have overcome the world will be allowed entry.
Revelation 21:1-2
“Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” (NIV)
Those who overcome the world will be among those who inherit this glorious future. But overcoming the world is not optional—it is the standard.
Theological Insight: The Christian life requires us to battle against sin and worldly temptations. We cannot simply give in and say that we can’t overcome the world. Scripture makes it clear that we are empowered to resist and fight back against sin. Our responsibility is to strive for victory, understanding that the process involves choosing holiness over worldly pleasures, just as Jesus and His apostles taught.
James 4:7-8
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God, and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (NIV)
This struggle is not just a matter of avoiding sin but of actively pursuing purity, following Christ despite the cost. The journey involves taking up our cross daily and walking in the footsteps of Jesus.
Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” (NIV)
So, how can we achieve this victory?
The only way to truly overcome is by fully committing to leave behind sin, taking up our cross daily, and following Jesus, regardless of the cost. This is the path of spiritual strength.
Shalom.
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In modern times, when someone takes an oath—whether in court or in a ceremony—they often place a hand on a religious book like the Bible or over their heart. This gesture symbolizes sincerity and a deep commitment to telling the truth or fulfilling a promise.
However, in the ancient Hebrew culture, things were done quite differently. One unique and deeply symbolic practice involved placing a hand under another person’s thigh when making a solemn oath. Though it may seem strange today, this act had profound theological and cultural meaning.
In biblical language, the “thigh” symbolized strength, life, and generational continuity. It was close to the loins, associated with the procreative organs, and thus represented a person’s future lineage and covenant responsibilities. To place a hand under someone’s thigh was to acknowledge the seriousness of the commitment being made, under the witness of God and the weight of generational promises.
Theologians interpret this act as an acknowledgment of God’s covenant—especially the covenant of circumcision, which was given to Abraham as a sign of his descendants’ faithfulness (Genesis 17:10-11). Since the sign of the covenant was marked on the male reproductive organ, the area near the thigh symbolically pointed to God’s promise and human responsibility to uphold it.
When Abraham wanted to ensure that his son Isaac would marry a woman from his own people rather than from the surrounding pagan nations, he entrusted this sacred task to his most senior servant. To confirm the seriousness of this mission, he instructed the servant to place his hand under Abraham’s thigh and swear by the Lord.
“He said to the senior servant in his household… ‘Put your hand under my thigh. I want you to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites… but will go to my country and my own relatives and get a wife for my son Isaac.’” (Genesis 24:2–4, NIV)
This was not just a cultural gesture—it was a sacred oath before God. The servant agreed and placed his hand under Abraham’s thigh, signifying obedience to both Abraham and to the Lord.
A similar scene occurs later in Genesis, when Jacob (also known as Israel) is nearing death. He calls his son Joseph and asks him not to bury him in Egypt but in the burial place of his ancestors in Canaan. Again, Jacob requests that Joseph place his hand under his thigh while making the vow.
“When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called for his son Joseph and said to him, ‘If I have found favor in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise that you will show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt… Bury me with my fathers.’” (Genesis 47:29–30, NIV)
Joseph swore to honor his father’s request, understanding the cultural and spiritual weight of such a promise.
Under the New Covenant, Jesus redefines the way we approach truthfulness and oaths. Instead of swearing by objects or body parts, He calls His followers to live with such integrity that oaths become unnecessary.
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all… All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:33–37, NIV)
Jesus emphasizes that true disciples should be trustworthy without needing dramatic gestures or vows. Our character should speak for itself, because we are no longer bound to external rituals to prove our honesty.
The act of placing a hand under the thigh in biblical times was a serious and sacred gesture, rooted in covenant theology and deep respect for divine promises. While we no longer practice this today, the principle remains: when we make a commitment—especially before God—we should treat it with the utmost seriousness.
As followers of Christ, we are called to speak with honesty, keep our word, and live with integrity—because our lives now reflect the One who is Truth Himself.
May the Lord bless you.
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The Bible teaches that a generation is a group of people who arise with similar characteristics shaped by their time and environment (Psalm 90:10 ). Throughout history, God has seen different generations appear, each with distinct spiritual conditions.
For example, the Israelites in Egypt under Joseph enjoyed peace and prosperity (Genesis 47:27). However, after Joseph and Pharaoh died, a new generation arose that forgot God’s blessings and Joseph’s faithfulness, leading to harsh slavery (Exodus 1:6-14).
Similarly, when the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the first generation was faithful to God (Joshua 24:31). But after many years, a generation came that turned away from God, causing great troubles (Judges 2:10).
Today, in these last days (Matthew 24:3-14), it’s important to identify which generation we belong to, so we can live wisely and avoid the pitfalls described in Scripture.
Jesus said:
“An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” (Matthew 12:39)
This generation values fornication and sexual immorality over all else (1 Corinthians 6:18 ). The Apostle Paul warned that such sins keep people from inheriting the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21). Sadly, today’s culture normalizes pornography and promiscuity, even among children.
Jesus warned that those who are ashamed of Him in this sinful generation will face His judgment (Mark 8:38). Avoid this lifestyle—God’s judgment is certain.
John the Baptist rebuked religious leaders: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.” (Matthew 3:7-8)
The serpent (Satan) is described in Genesis as cunning (Genesis 3:1 l). His offspring are people who reject God’s authority and live in rebellion (1 John 3:10). Despite human progress and knowledge, many deny God’s existence (Romans 1:18-23).
If you identify with this mindset, repent and turn to God (Acts 17:30).
“There is a generation that curses their father and does not bless their mother.” (Proverbs 30:11)
Respect for parents is commanded in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12) and is foundational for a blessed life (Ephesians 6:1-3). The breakdown of family respect signals moral decay.
Even if parents wrong you, Scripture commands love and blessing, not retaliation (Romans 12:17-21). Otherwise, you fall under the curse described in Proverbs.
“There is a generation that is pure in their own eyes, yet not washed from their filth.” (Proverbs 30:12)
This generation trusts in self-righteousness rather than the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:22). The Bible warns against relying on works or beliefs without accepting Christ’s saving grace (John 14:6).
If you are in this group, turn to Jesus—He alone cleanses sin (1 John 1:7-9).
“There is a generation whose eyes are lofty, and whose eyelids are lifted up.” (Proverbs 30:13)
Pride is sin that separates us from God (Proverbs 16:18). The proud reject God’s authority and scoff at His salvation (Psalm 10:4). God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
If pride characterizes you, humble yourself before God (1 Peter 5:6).
“There is a generation whose teeth are swords, and their jaw teeth like knives, to devour the poor and needy from the earth.” (Proverbs 30:14)
The Bible commands compassion, care for the poor, widows, and orphans (James 1:27). Today, selfishness, greed, and exploitation are rampant. Such behavior brings judgment (Proverbs 22:22-23).
Guard your heart against greed and cruelty (Luke 6:36).
Despite all these negative generations, God promises a generation that fears Him and delights in His commandments:
“Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” (Psalm 112:1-2)
This righteous generation is faithful, obedient, and God-fearing (Micah 6:8). They will be part of the Church that will be raptured to heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
Peter exhorts us:
“Save yourselves from this perverse generation.” (Acts 2:40)
God bless you.
Praise the Lord Jesus, my dear brother. Let us reflect together on some life-giving truths.
When we read the Bible, we are receiving God’s revelation (2 Timothy 3:16). Anyone who rushes into serving God without carefully studying His Word puts themselves at great risk. God’s Word is our ultimate authority, and all visions, callings, or experiences must be tested against it (1 John 4:1).
It’s like going into business without researching its challenges, benefits, or risks.
Today, we’ll explore how ignoring God’s commands leads to failure—even death.
1. The Example of Moses
Moses was called by God through the burning bush (Exodus 3), sent to deliver Israel from Egypt. Yet, on the journey, God sought to kill him (Exodus 4:24-26):
“At a lodging place on the way, the LORD met Moses and was about to kill him. But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off her son’s foreskin and touched Moses’ feet with it. ‘Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me,’ she said.”
Why? Because Moses had neglected the covenant sign of circumcision (Genesis 17:9-14), a non-negotiable sign of the covenant between God and His people. This reminds us that no spiritual calling exempts us from obedience to God’s commands.
Many today reject biblical ordinances, such as water baptism (Matthew 28:19), claiming direct revelation from God is enough. But Jesus commanded baptism as a mark of discipleship, and neglecting it disregards His Word (Mark 16:16).
2. The Example of Balaam
Balaam was a prophet who received a clear command from God not to curse Israel (Numbers 22:12):
“Do not go with them; do not curse those people, because they have been blessed.”
Despite this, Balaam was enticed by Balak and disobeyed God’s direct command. On his journey, God’s angel was ready to kill him (Numbers 22:22). His disobedience nearly cost him his life.
This shows that even prophets are accountable to God’s Word. Trying to override God’s clear commands with personal visions or desires leads to destruction (Proverbs 14:12).
3. The Principle: God’s Word Is Supreme
The Apostle Paul instructs us to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). No matter how powerful a vision or calling seems, it cannot contradict Scripture.
For example, Paul writes:
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.” (1 Timothy 2:12)
Yet some claim divine calling as female pastors or elders, disregarding this clear instruction. Such claims must be weighed carefully against Scripture.
Many receive visions and callings but never fulfill them because they neglect God’s Word. Our lives and ministries must be rooted in the Bible, not in dreams, voices, or personal revelations.
Let us obey the Word of God first, and then other things will follow (Psalm 119:105).
May the Lord bless you richly.
When God led the Israelites out of Egypt, He did not give them a flag as a symbol of their nation. The flag of Israel as we know it today was created many centuries later—long after Jesus Christ came to earth, during the modern movements for Israel’s independence.
The Israeli flag has two main colors: white and blue.
At the center of the flag is a six-pointed star known as the Star of David or the Shield of David. Although this symbol does not appear explicitly in the Bible, tradition holds that King David’s shield had this shape, symbolizing divine protection.
The six points of the star can be connected to the six attributes of the Spirit of God described in Isaiah 11:2
“And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.”
These six qualities represent the fullness of the Spirit’s work in the Messiah, who Christians recognize as Jesus Christ.
The two overlapping triangles (one pointing up and one down) symbolize the connection between God and humanity—God reaching down to man and man reaching up to God.
While the Star of David is not mentioned as such in the Scriptures, Christians see a deeper meaning in the star as a symbol of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. Jesus is called the “Root and the Offspring of David” and the “bright Morning Star” in Revelation 22:16
“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.”
This shows Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises to David and as the shining hope for all nations.
Does the Israeli flag hold spiritual power or blessings for Christians? Does displaying it in churches, homes, or vehicles bring favor from God?
The answer is no. While the flag represents the modern nation of Israel, it itself is not a source of spiritual blessing. To treat any flag or symbol as a source of blessing is to risk idolatry, which Scripture warns against (Exodus 20:3; Colossians 3:5).
True blessing comes from living in obedience to God’s Word and pursuing holiness, as Hebrews 12:14 instructs:
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
Holiness and faithfulness to God’s commands are the true marks of God’s favor, not any earthly symbol or flag.
There is no spiritual necessity for Christians to carry or display the Israeli flag as a sign of divine blessing. While it may serve cultural or political purposes, our spiritual identity and blessing come from Christ alone.
When the Bible says “Blessed is Israel” (Genesis 12:3, for example), it refers to God’s covenant promises to Abraham’s descendants and ultimately to all who are in Christ, the true spiritual Israel (Galatians 6:16).
May the Lord bless you richly as you seek Him.
Proverbs 25:20 (NIV) says:
“Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.”
This verse gives us profound wisdom about how to relate to people in pain. When someone is grieving or emotionally broken, trying to cheer them up with joyful songs or humor might not be comforting at all—it can actually make their pain feel worse.
Emotional Mismatch and the Wisdom of Empathy In the metaphor Solomon uses, taking someone’s coat away on a cold day doesn’t relieve their discomfort—it intensifies it. Likewise, pouring vinegar on soda (or a wound, as some versions say) causes a harsh, reactive fizz, symbolizing distress rather than relief. The lesson is simple: respond appropriately to the emotional needs of others.
This aligns with
Romans 12:15 (NIV):
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
Paul teaches us to emotionally synchronize with others—to celebrate when others are joyful and to grieve with those who are mourning. This is an expression of Christlike compassion—putting ourselves in others’ shoes, just as Christ entered into our humanity.
Jesus: The Model of Compassion Jesus Himself modeled this perfectly. In
John 11:33-35,
when Lazarus died, Jesus saw Mary and others weeping, and though He knew He would raise Lazarus, He was deeply moved and He wept.
“Jesus wept.” (John 11:35, NIV) —
the shortest verse in the Bible, but one of the most powerful. It shows that empathy is not weakness—it’s divine. Jesus didn’t rush to fix the problem before first feeling the pain of those around Him.
The Right Comfort for the Right Moment Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NIV) says:
“…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
Discerning the right time for the right response is a mark of wisdom. Not every moment calls for celebration. Sometimes, the most healing thing we can do is simply be present and silent, just like Job’s friends before they spoke (Job 2:13), when they sat with him in silence for seven days out of respect for his deep sorrow.
Practical Theology: Ministry of Presence This message challenges us to offer what is called “the ministry of presence.” Often, people don’t need us to say the perfect words—they just need us to be with them, to listen, to mourn with them, and to make space for their pain. That is how healing begins.
Conclusion Let us be wise in how we comfort others. If someone is open to encouragement through song or joy, offer it. But when grief runs deep, meet them in that pain with understanding, not forced cheer. That is the way of Christ—gentle, patient, and full of compassion.
May the Lord bless you as you become a vessel of comfort in someone’s life.
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Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! Welcome once again to our ongoing series on the books of the Bible. By God’s grace, we’ve already explored several books, and today we take another step forward as we turn to the Book of Isaiah.
Before we proceed, it is important to emphasize that this is only a summary not an exhaustive study. Every believer is strongly encouraged to read the full Book of Isaiah both before and after engaging with this summary. Furthermore, if you haven’t yet gone through the earlier parts of this series, we recommend starting there to gain a fuller understanding of the entire biblical narrative.
If you need access to previous studies, you can visit the website at www.wingulamashahidi.org or contact us directly via the numbers listed at the end of the teaching.
The Book of Isaiah was written by the prophet Isaiah, the son of Amoz. The book consists of 66 chapters, paralleling the 66 books of the entire Bible.
Unlike other prophetic books such as Hosea, Zechariah, Haggai, Obadiah, Jonah, Habakkuk, and Malachi which often focus on specific historical events, judgments on certain nations, or isolated prophetic periods Isaiah’s message is vast, covering nearly every major prophetic theme.
The Book of Isaiah includes prophecies about:
Isaiah’s prophecies were not delivered in a single day, month, or year. Rather, they span approximately 58 years (739 BC – 681 BC). These visions were given at different times throughout his life, making the book a compilation of revelations over decades. This explains why the content may appear to jump between topics some visions concern the Messiah, others concern Babylon, and still others speak of the end times.
Isaiah was the son of Amoz. While we know little about Amoz himself, it’s evident he was a person of standing. The name “Isaiah” means “The Lord is Salvation.” Isaiah began receiving prophetic visions in the year that King Uzziah died (Isaiah 6:1). He is considered one of the earliest major prophets, predating Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
He married a prophetess, as commanded by the Lord, and they had children whose names served as prophetic signs (Isaiah 8:3).
Throughout Scripture, God often uses the personal lives of His prophets as living symbols of His message to the people. For example:
Similarly, Isaiah was commanded to walk naked and barefoot for three years as a sign against Egypt and Cush:
Isaiah 20:2–4 (ESV): “At that time the Lord spoke by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, ‘Go, and loose the sackcloth from your waist and take off your sandals from your feet,’ and he did so, walking naked and barefoot. Then the Lord said, ‘As my servant Isaiah has walked naked and barefoot for three years as a sign and a portent against Egypt and Cush, so shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptian captives and the Cushite exiles, both the young and the old, naked and barefoot, with buttocks uncovered, the nakedness of Egypt.'”
Tradition holds that Isaiah died a martyr’s death, being sawn in two, as referenced in Hebrews 11:37.
Isaiah’s prophecies can be categorized into five major sections:
Isaiah lived about 150 years before the Babylonian captivity. During his ministry, both Judah and Israel had fallen into deep spiritual rebellion. God used Isaiah to warn them of coming judgment and urge them to repent yet they did not.
Isaiah 22:4–5 (ESV): “Therefore I said: ‘Look away from me; let me weep bitter tears. Do not labor to comfort me concerning the destruction of the daughter of my people.’ For the Lord God of hosts has a day of tumult and trampling and confusion in the valley of vision, a battering down of walls and a shouting to the mountains.”
Even as Isaiah warned of destruction, he also prophesied hope and restoration. He foretold the rise of Cyrus (Koresh), the Persian king who would release the Jews and allow them to return and rebuild Jerusalem.
Isaiah 44:28 (ESV): “Who says of Cyrus, ‘He is my shepherd, and he shall fulfill all my purpose’; saying of Jerusalem, ‘She shall be built,’ and of the temple, ‘Your foundation shall be laid.’”
Also see: Isaiah 45:1–2
Isaiah is perhaps the most Messianic book in the Old Testament.
He prophesied:
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14
“For to us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
This chapter alone is so vivid that it’s sometimes referred to as the “Fifth Gospel.” It prophetically outlines the crucifixion of Christ hundreds of years before it occurred.
Isaiah devotes significant portions to pronouncing judgment against foreign nations surrounding Israel. These include:
These judgments show that God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. Even though some nations were used as tools of discipline, they too were held accountable for their wickedness.
Isaiah 14:5–6 (ESV): “The Lord has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of rulers, that struck the peoples in wrath with unceasing blows…”
Isaiah saw far beyond his own era even to the end of the world, the Day of the Lord, and the coming Millennial Reign of Christ.
Isaiah 24:1–6 (ESV): “Behold, the Lord will empty the earth and make it desolate… The earth lies defiled under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant…”
Isaiah 65:17–25 (ESV): “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered… The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox… They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,” says the Lord.”
The Book of Isaiah
teaches us that:
We are living in the last days. Once the rapture of the Church occurs, the world will enter into the period of great tribulation God’s judgment upon a rebellious world. Only those who have been washed in the blood of the Lamb the true saints will escape and inherit the new heaven and new earth.
2 Peter 3:10 (ESV): “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar…”
Where will you stand on that day?
An honest reflection on church structure, the Holy Spirit, and true worship.
Liturgy refers to the structured way a church conducts its worship. This may include written prayers, Scripture readings, order of songs, sermons, communion, and other traditions. Most Christian denominations, including Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and some Protestant churches, use some form of liturgy.
Worship often includes five core elements:
When a church formalizes a guide on how to carry out these elements—especially by writing it down and sticking to it consistently—that becomes its liturgy.
The Bible encourages structure and order in worship.
“But all things should be done decently and in order.” — 1 Corinthians 14:40 (ESV)
The early church had patterns (Acts 2:42), met regularly (Hebrews 10:25), and had appointed roles for teaching and prayer (Ephesians 4:11–12). So yes, having a liturgy or structure is biblical—when used rightly.
The issue arises when liturgy becomes too rigid, replacing the guidance of the Holy Spirit with man-made routines. The Holy Spirit was given to lead the church into truth (John 16:13), not be restricted by fixed schedules.
Some churches plan out all sermons, readings, and themes for the entire year, leaving little to no room for spontaneity or prophetic insight.
When this happens, even if the Holy Spirit wants to speak something new or move in a unique way—through prayer, prophecy, or revelation—He is hindered by our systems.
“Do not quench the Spirit.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:19 (ESV)
“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” — 2 Corinthians 3:17 (ESV)
A church without spiritual flexibility becomes like a body without breath—externally alive but spiritually dry.
Jesus warned about replacing God’s work with tradition:
“You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” — Mark 7:8 (ESV)
The Pharisees had their own religious “liturgy,” but it left no space for God to move. In the same way, when churches allow structure to override the Spirit, it becomes dangerous.
A beautiful sanctuary, an organized service, and great music cannot replace the presence of the Holy Spirit.
“Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.” — Romans 8:9 (ESV)
Good order in the church includes things like:
But all of this must remain open to the Holy Spirit’s leadership. For example:
We must allow the Spirit of God to be the true leader of our gatherings—not just our pre-written plans.
Liturgy is not evil—but when it replaces the freedom of the Spirit, it becomes a spiritual trap.
Many churches today have polished liturgies but lack spiritual vitality. The life of the Church is not found in formality, but in relationship with the living God, through His Spirit.
Let us return to Spirit-led worship, where structure supports—not stifles—God’s voice.
“If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” — Galatians 5:25 (ESV)
May the Lord help us walk in Spirit and truth. Maranatha — Come, Lord Jesus!
Joy is a positive emotional response that comes from satisfaction or receiving something good. Theologically, joy is more than just happiness—it’s a deep, abiding gladness rooted in God’s presence and promises.
For example, when the wise men saw the star signaling Jesus’ birth, they rejoiced greatly.
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” — Matthew 2:10
Similarly, after Jesus’ resurrection, those who discovered the empty tomb were filled with great joy, showing joy’s connection to hope and victory over death.
“The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.” — Matthew 28:8
Joy is also a heavenly celebration. When a sinner repents, it brings joy in heaven, emphasizing the redemptive work of God and the value of repentance.
“I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” — Luke 15:10
Joy in Scripture is often linked to salvation, God’s faithfulness, and the work of the Holy Spirit (the third person of the Trinity who empowers believers). Unlike fleeting happiness based on circumstances, biblical joy is a fruit of the Spirit and a sign of God’s sustaining grace.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” — Galatians 5:22-23
When Jesus was born, angels announced His arrival as “good news of great joy,” pointing to the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Christ.
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’” — Luke 2:10-11
Joy is also present during trials. The testing of faith produces perseverance, and joy in suffering reflects a mature trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty.
“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.” — James 1:2-3 “But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” — 1 Peter 4:13
“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.” — James 1:2-3
“But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” — 1 Peter 4:13
This joy transcends mere feelings; it’s a supernatural state sustained by hope in Christ’s return and God’s eternal promises. It reflects the believer’s union with Christ in suffering and glory.
Romans 15:13 reminds us that this joy and peace come by trusting God through the Holy Spirit:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
True joy is found only in Christ. When you accept Him as Lord and Savior, God fills you with this joy, regardless of life’s circumstances.
“Let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy.” — Psalm 5:11 “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” — Psalm 51:12
So today, open your heart to Jesus. Allow Him to forgive you and fill you with everlasting joy that cannot be taken away.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
Understanding Biblical Scrolls and Their Meaning
In ancient times, a scroll was a common format for written texts. Unlike the modern books we use today—with pages bound together—scrolls were long strips of material, usually made from leather or parchment, that were rolled up for storage and reading. The term scroll is often used in the Bible and is key to understanding certain prophetic scriptures, especially in books like Ezekiel and Revelation.
Today, due to the advancement of technology and printing, we use paper books. But when we read about “books” in biblical times, it’s important to realize that they were referring to scrolls—not books with pages like ours.
Scrolls in the Bible: Their Structure and Significance
Scrolls were sometimes sealed, especially if they contained important or prophetic content. In the Book of Revelation, we read about a remarkable scroll sealed with seven seals, which only the Lamb of God—Jesus Christ—was worthy to open:
“And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals.” —Revelation 5:1
This scroll represents God’s final plan for judgment and redemption. The fact that it was written “inside and on the back” suggests completeness, and the seven seals point to divine perfection and fullness.
Jesus is described as the only One in heaven or on earth who is worthy to break these seals:
“But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.'” —Revelation 5:5
This imagery draws from the ancient Jewish practice where legal documents or prophetic scrolls were sealed to protect their contents until an authorized person could open them (see Isaiah 29:11).
Other Mentions of Scrolls in Scripture
The word scroll appears in many key passages of the Bible. Each usage reveals the scroll as a vehicle of divine message or judgment:
Understanding these references helps us realize that scrolls in the Bible were not just writing tools—they were sacred carriers of divine revelation, prophecy, and covenant.
Why This Matters
The scroll in Revelation is central to eschatology (the study of end times). It contains God’s plan for judging evil and restoring creation under Christ’s rule. Only Jesus—the sinless Lamb—can unlock this plan, showing His exclusive authority in heaven and on earth (Philippians 2:9-11).
Understanding that this “book” is actually a scroll helps us visualize the solemnity of the moment when the seals are broken. It also connects us with the ancient biblical world and the seriousness with which God’s word was preserved and delivered.
A Call for Reflection
The same Jesus who opens the scroll in Revelation is calling us today:
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” —Revelation 3:20
So, let me ask you:
Jesus is coming soon. The rapture of the Church could happen at any moment (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Don’t delay your decision.