Title April 2022

ANOTHER WAY TO RECEIVE MERCY AND FAVOR FROM GOD

 

ANOTHER WAY TO RECEIVE MERCY AND FAVOR FROM GOD

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” — Matthew 5:7 (ESV)

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

There are many ways to attract the mercy and favor of God. Some of the most known are prayer, generosity, and forgiveness. These are biblical and powerful disciplines. However, there is another deep and often forgotten path that opens the floodgates of divine mercy—a path that touches the very heart of God.

That way is refusing to take revenge and not rejoicing when those who oppose you fall.

1. Mercy Attracts Mercy

The principle of mercy runs throughout Scripture: “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13).

God’s mercy is drawn to those who reflect His own nature. To be merciful is to demonstrate the divine image within us. When we forgive, bless, and show compassion to others—even those who hurt us—we participate in God’s own character, for “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” (Psalm 103:8).

2. The Danger of Rejoicing in the Fall of Others

Many believers today have been misled into thinking that God delights in the downfall of their enemies. Some even pray for the destruction of those who wrong them, as if God’s justice meant personal revenge. Yet Scripture clearly warns us otherwise:

Proverbs 24:17–18 (ESV)
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles,
lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and turn away His anger from him.”

This verse reveals a vital truth about God’s nature: He is not vindictive. His discipline is redemptive, not destructive. God allows hardship to humble people, to bring them to repentance—not to satisfy our desire for revenge. When we gloat over another person’s fall, we step into pride, and pride always invites God’s opposition (James 4:6).

Remember Jonah: he eagerly waited to see Nineveh destroyed, but God rebuked him for his lack of compassion (Jonah 4:9–11). The Lord said, “Should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons…?” God’s mercy extended even to those Jonah despised.

3. Responding to Hatred with Grace

When people mistreat you—when they slander, insult, or persecute you unjustly—Scripture calls us to a higher response:

Romans 12:17–21 (ESV)
“Repay no one evil for evil… Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’
…Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

God’s justice is perfect. He does not forget, but He also calls us to trust Him with the outcome. When you forgive and pray for those who wrong you, you’re declaring that God—not your emotions—is your defender.

This attitude doesn’t make you weak; it makes you like Christ. True strength is seen in restraint.

4. David’s Example — Turning Curses into Blessings

King David understood this mystery. He never rejoiced when those who sought his life fell. When Saul died, David mourned (2 Samuel 1:11–12). When Absalom perished, he cried out in agony (2 Samuel 18:33).

During his flight from Absalom, a man named Shimei cursed David openly. Yet David refused to retaliate:

2 Samuel 16:10–12 (ESV)
“But the king said, ‘What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the Lord has said to him, “Curse David,” who then shall say, “Why have you done so?”
…Leave him alone, and let him curse, for the Lord has told him to.
It may be that the Lord will look on the wrong done to me, and that the Lord will repay me with good for his cursing today.’”

David saw every insult as an opportunity for blessing. He believed that God could transform human injustice into divine favor.

This attitude reveals profound humility and trust in God’s sovereignty. David’s heart mirrored Christ’s heart—a heart that forgives in the midst of pain.

5. Job’s Righteousness and Divine Favor

Job also walked in this truth. Despite his suffering and the hostility of others, he said:

Job 31:29–30 (ESV)
“If I have rejoiced at the ruin of him who hated me, or exulted when evil overtook him—(I have not let my mouth sin by asking for his life with a curse).”

Job’s restraint reflected genuine righteousness. His integrity and compassion made him a man

Job 1:1).

“blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil” (Job 1:1).

When the trial ended, “the Lord restored the fortunes of Job… and gave him twice as much as he had before” (Job 42:10).

His mercy brought multiplication.

6. The Example of Christ — The Ultimate Model of Mercy

Every principle of mercy finds its perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Matthew 5:43–45 (ESV)
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.”

At the Cross, Jesus prayed for His executioners, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). This prayer embodies the highest expression of mercy.

Because of His obedience and humility,

Philippians 2:9).

“God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name” 

If we share in His mercy and humility, we shall also share in His exaltation. To forgive when it hurts, to love when it’s undeserved—these are the marks of true sons and daughters of God.

7. The Theology of Mercy

Theologically, mercy is not weakness—it is divine power expressed through compassion.

  • Mercy suspends judgment. (Lamentations 3:22–23)

  • Mercy restores relationship. (Ephesians 2:4–5)

  • Mercy reveals the Kingdom of God. (Luke 6:36)

When you refuse to retaliate, you stand on the foundation of the Cross, where justice and mercy met. Mercy triumphs because it reflects the very nature of God’s salvation.

8. Living as Vessels of Mercy

Paul wrote:

Romans 9:23 (ESV)
“In order to make known the riches of His glory for vessels of mercy, which He has prepared beforehand for glory.”

You are called to be a vessel of mercy. That means to reflect God’s patience, compassion, and forgiveness toward others. Even when you are wronged, your gentle response becomes a testimony of God’s transforming grace.

 

Do you desire mercy, favor, and blessing from God? Then choose the path of mercy. Accept reproach without retaliation. Pray for those who wrong you. Bless those who curse you.

Remember:

  • David was blessed because he refused to curse.

  • Job was restored because he never rejoiced at his enemies’ downfall.

  • Christ was exalted because He forgave His persecutors.

If you walk in the same spirit, God will exalt you in due time (1 Peter 5:6).

 

Romans 12:18 (ESV)
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

Mercy disarms hatred. Forgiveness invites favor.
The one who refuses revenge reflects the heart of God.

Do you want God’s mercy?
Then extend mercy to others.

Do you seek His favor?
Then love those who don’t deserve it.

For this is the way of Christ—and the mark of His true disciples.

Jesus Christ is coming soon.
Let us live as people of mercy, shining as children of our Father in Christ. 

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LET BOTH GROW TOGETHER UNTIL THE HARVEST

LET BOTH GROW TOGETHER UNTIL THE HARVEST

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Author and Giver of Life. Welcome once again as we study the Word of God — the lamp to our feet and the light to our path (Psalm 119:105, NKJV).

Have you ever wondered why God allows wicked people to prosper, even though they openly defy His name? Why does He permit evil to flourish in a world that belongs to Him? The Lord Jesus Himself gave us the answer through one of His parables:

The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares

Matthew 13:24–30 (KJV)

24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:
25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.
26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.
27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?
29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.
30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.

A Divine Mystery: Why God Allows Evil to Prosper

Pay close attention to verse 30 — “Let both grow together until the harvest.”

This reveals a deep mystery in God’s providence. God allows both the righteous (the wheat) and the wicked (the tares) to exist side by side in the same world — in the same nations, workplaces, and even within the visible church — until the appointed time of judgment.

This coexistence is not a sign of God’s indifference, but of His patience and justice. The Apostle Peter affirms this:

2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV)

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

In other words, God’s delay in judgment is not approval of sin, but mercy extended toward repentance. The “tares” are given time — not to remain wicked — but to turn to righteousness before the harvest (the final judgment).

The Temporary Prosperity of the Wicked

We often wonder why the ungodly seem to flourish — why the unjust grow wealthy while the righteous suffer. Yet Scripture shows that this is only temporary prosperity, not eternal blessing.

King David expressed this same struggle in

Psalm 73:2–5, 17–19 (NIV):

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.
For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong…
till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.
Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin.

God allows the wicked to prosper so that His justice may be fully revealed in due time. Their flourishing is only to make their destruction evident, as David later wrote:

Psalm 92:7 (NKJV)

When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish, it is that they may be destroyed forever.

Solomon also confirmed this truth:

Proverbs 1:32 (NIV)

For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them.

Misconceptions About Prosperity

In these last days, the devil has deceived many into believing that material wealth equals divine favor. People measure spiritual maturity by the abundance of possessions, quoting

3 John 1:2:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”

But this verse emphasizes spiritual prosperity first — “as your soul prospers.” Material success without holiness is meaningless. Jesus warned:

Luke 12:15 (NKJV)

Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.

Many of the world’s rich and powerful will find themselves condemned in eternity, while many of the poor who lived faithfully will inherit the kingdom of heaven (Luke 16:19–31).

Therefore, worldly success is not the true standard of godliness. God Himself said, “Let both grow together.” In other words, the righteous and the unrighteous will both receive rain, sunshine, and opportunities — but their eternal destinies will differ.

The True Measure of Acceptance: Holiness

If prosperity is not the measure of being accepted by God, what is?

The unchanging standard of divine approval is holiness.

Hebrews 12:14 (KJV)

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.

Holiness means separation from sin, devotion to God, and conformity to His character through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said:

Matthew 5:8 (NKJV)

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Without holiness, no one will inherit eternal life — not the wealthy, not the religious, not even the charitable — for righteousness is not earned by deeds but through faith that produces obedience and purity.

A Call to Live Holy in an Unholy World

This is not the time to pursue worldly gain, but to pursue holiness and intimacy with God. Sin is what eternally separates man from His presence. The Apostle Paul warned:

Galatians 5:19–21 (KJV)

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

The Lord is calling His people to be like the wheat — rooted, fruitful, and faithful — even while growing among the tares. The harvest is coming soon, when the angels will separate the righteous from the wicked (see Matthew 13:39–43).

 

Let us therefore not envy the wicked nor measure our lives by the standards of this world. Our reward is not found in temporary prosperity but in eternal life with Christ.

Romans 2:6–7 (NKJV)

God “will render to each one according to his deeds”: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality.

Let us seek the holiness that prepares us for the harvest, that we may be gathered into the Master’s barn — His eternal kingdom.

Maranatha! The Lord is coming soon.

 

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“Kiyama” – The Day of Resurrection

A Theological Reflection

The word “Kiyama” (or Kiama) is a Swahili term meaning “the Day of Resurrection.” In Christian theology, this refers to the future, bodily resurrection of the dead—a central tenet of the Christian faith, rooted in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

1. Biblical Foundations of the Resurrection

a. Jesus and the Sadducees

Matthew 22:23–28 (NIV)

That same day the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question…

(vv. 23–28 summarize the Sadducees’ attempt to trap Jesus with a hypothetical scenario about marriage in the resurrection.)

The Sadducees, a sect of Judaism that denied the resurrection and the existence of spirits (see Acts 23:8), questioned Jesus to discredit the concept of life after death. Jesus, however, corrected their misunderstanding in verse 30:

Matthew 22:30 (NIV)

At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.

This passage reveals that life after the resurrection is qualitatively different, not just a continuation of earthly existence.

b. Paul’s Desire to Attain the Resurrection

Philippians 3:10–11 (NIV)

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Here, Paul emphasizes not only a future hope but also a present transformation: knowing Christ and becoming like Him prepares the believer for the future bodily resurrection.

c. False Teaching about the Resurrection

2 Timothy 2:17–18 (NIV)

Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some.

This shows that denying or misrepresenting the resurrection undermines the very foundation of Christian faith (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:12–19).

2. The Resurrection and the Rapture

Paul gives detailed teaching on the resurrection and the rapture in:

1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (NIV)

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

This event—often referred to as the Rapture—is closely tied to the resurrection of believers. It marks the moment when those who died in Christ will be raised to new, glorified life (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:50–52).

3. The Resurrection: Our Blessed Hope

Belief in the resurrection gives us unshakable hope:

Titus 2:13 (NIV)

…while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ…

 

Romans 8:11 (NIV)

And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

4. A Personal Challenge: Are We Ready?

The Day of Resurrection is not just a doctrinal concept—it is a call to holiness, vigilance, and preparation:

2 Corinthians 5:10 (NIV)

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

We must ask ourselves:

Am I living in light of eternity?

Do my actions reflect the hope I have in Christ?

Conclusion: The Nearness of the Resurrection

The resurrection is not a distant fantasy but a soon-coming reality. It is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan and the gateway to eternal life for all who believe in Jesus.

Let us, therefore, anchor our faith in Christ, walk in righteousness, and prepare our hearts for the glorious Day of Resurrection.

Shalom.

 

 

 

 

 

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AND HIS NAME IS CALLED, THE WORD OF GOD

Revelation 19:11–13 (NKJV)

11 Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.

12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself.

13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.

Why Is Jesus Called “The Word of God”?

In this striking vision, John doesn’t identify Jesus with the earthly name Jesus of Nazareth or the title Son of God, but instead uses the title: “The Word of God.” This isn’t just poetic—it’s theologically profound.

John 1:1,14 (NKJV) makes the connection clearer:

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…

This shows us that Jesus isn’t just the messenger of God’s Word—He is the Word itself. The Greek term used is Logos, meaning divine logic, reason, or expression. He is the very embodiment of God’s communication to humanity—eternal, powerful, and creative.

Jesus: Both Person and Word

To truly know Christ, we must understand Him in two dimensions:

Jesus the Person – the incarnate Son of God, who walked the earth, died for our sins, rose again, and now reigns in glory.

Jesus the Word – the embodiment of God’s will, wisdom, and instruction through Scripture.

Many Christians acknowledge Jesus the Person—His miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. Through this, we receive salvation (Romans 10:9–10). But fewer truly embrace Jesus as the Word—that is, allowing His teachings to form the foundation of our daily lives.

Living Out the Word

Embracing Jesus as the Word means living by what He taught. It requires obedience, discipline, and transformation.

James 1:22 (NKJV):

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

John 14:23 (NKJV):

Jesus answered and said to him, If  anyone loves Me, he will keep My word…

When we internalize and act on Jesus’ words, we are not just following a teacher—we are becoming like Him in nature, empowered to act with His authority.

Why Some Prayers Go Unanswered

Many believers call on Jesus, hoping for a miracle, but remain unchanged in character. Like using a calculator without understanding math, they rely on external help without seeking internal growth.

Matthew 17:17 (NKJV):

Then Jesus answered and said, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you?”

Jesus rebukes not only their lack of faith but their lack of spiritual maturity—an unwillingness to engage with the Word and grow.

The Power of Seeking First the Kingdom

Instead of seeking things from Jesus (healing, money, blessings), Jesus teaches us to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness first, and the rest will follow.

Matthew 6:33 (NKJV):

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

When we prioritize the Word, we align ourselves with God’s Kingdom economy—not the world’s system. We receive from God not by begging, but by walking in the principles of the Kingdom.

When the Word Lives in Us

John 15:7 (NKJV):

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.

This is not a blank check—it’s a promise grounded in union with Christ through His Word. When His Word lives in us, our desires are aligned with His will, and our prayers become powerful and effective.

Jesus the Word: A Final Reflection

To follow Jesus the Person leads to salvation.

To follow Jesus the Word leads to transformation.

When we forgive, when we live holy, when we love sacrificially—we are not merely obeying commands. We are becoming like the One whose name is The Word of God.

PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, help us not only to believe in You as our Savior but to live by Your words as our Lord. Teach us to reflect Your nature by obeying Your truth. Let Your Word dwell richly in us, shaping our thoughts, decisions, and actions every day. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

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THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE: Part 1.

 

It is also important to note that this is just a summary!, which will help yorstand these books easily. Therefore, after reading this summary, it is good to read the specific book to fill in what little you got here. Reading this summary alone, without holding the Bible, will not benefit you. It’s even better to read the Bible without any summary than to read here and completely neglect the Bible.

THE BOOK OF HOSEA

The Book of Hosea was written by Hosea himself, and the meaning of the name Hosea is “Salvation.” Hosea was a prophet of God, just like Jeremiah, Isaiah, or Daniel. The Book of Hosea is believed to have been written over a period of 40 years. During this time, Hosea received a series of visions from God and wrote them down in this 14-chapter book.

Prophet Hosea is one of the three prophets whose lives the Lord used as a sign… The others are Prophet Isaiah, who at one point was commanded to walk naked (to understand more why he was told to walk naked, click here >> WHY DID PROPHET ISAIAH COMMAND TO WALK NAKED?), and another is Ezekiel, who was commanded to eat bread baked over human excrement, and also lie on one side for many days as a sign to the children of Israel.

But Prophet Hosea, God used his life as a sign in a different way, and that way was “in the area of marriage.” Normally, God never instructed people to marry prostitutes or harlots. But Hosea was told to marry a woman, a “prostitute,” a woman who could not remain faithful to one man. That was the woman God commanded Hosea to marry for a specific reason.

The purpose of this command was to teach Israel how they appeared before God, that before God, they looked like a harlot, who cannot remain with her one husband. The nation of Israel is spiritually compared to a woman, and God is like her husband.

Jeremiah 31:31 “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah.”

32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers, in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they broke, although I was a husband to them, says the Lord.”

Did you see that?.. He says that from the day He brought them out of Egypt, He was their husband, but they broke His covenant… also Jeremiah 3:14 speaks of the same thing…

Jeremiah 3:14 “Return, O backsliding children, says the Lord; for I am married to you: and I will take you, one from a city, and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion.”

So, in the way Israel was leaving God, spiritually, it was as if they were betraying their Husband, who is God. And all the wicked acts they were doing spiritually were interpreted as ADULTERY.

Therefore, Hosea being told to marry a prostitute was to give Israel a message that just as he (Hosea) was suffering with the harlot woman (today she’s with him, tomorrow she runs away to engage in prostitution), so Israel was troubling God with the spiritual adultery they were committing.

Now to understand this command given to Hosea in more detail, you can open here >>> Why Did God Command Prophet Hosea to Marry a Prostitute?

So after all of Israel saw that Hosea married an unfaithful woman and the troubles he had with her, some of the children of Israel repented and turned to God, but others remained stiff-necked.

The Book of Hosea can be divided into 8 main sections.

PART ONE (Chapters 1 and 2)

It deals with God’s instructions to Hosea to find a HARLOT WIFE named GOMER, and have three children with her. The first child, who would be male, he would name JEZREEL (Jezreel was the city of King Ahab of Israel and his wife Jezebel). That is where all the sins of Israel began.

The second child, who would be female, would be named LO-RUHAMAH, which means “No Mercy.” The third child, a male, would be named LO-AMMI, which means “Not My People.”

Through these three children and their mother, God sent a heavy message to all of Israel and Judah. (You can go through these two chapters personally, with the help of the Holy Spirit).

PART TWO (Chapter 3)

It deals with God’s instructions to Hosea to marry another unfaithful woman, but this time, she should already be loved by another man. The purpose of doing this was to show them how the children of Israel would be taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar and spend many years away from the presence of God, their husband.

Hosea 3:1 “The Lord said to me, Go again, love a woman who is loved by a lover and is committing adultery, even as the Lord loves the children of Israel, though they turn to other gods and love the raisin cakes of the pagans.”

2 So I bought her for myself for fifteen shekels of silver, and one and a half homers of barley.

3 And I said to her, You shall stay with me many days; you shall not play the harlot, nor shall you have a man; so, too, will I be toward you.”

4 For the children of Israel shall abide many days without a king or a prince, without sacrifice or sacred pillar, without ephod or teraphim.

5 Afterward, the children of Israel shall return and seek the Lord their God and David their king; they shall fear the Lord and His goodness in the latter days.”

PART THREE (Chapters 4-5)

God pronounces woes upon Israel because of their sins.

PART FOUR (Chapter 6)

God gives a call for repentance, saying that if Israel returns to Him, He will show mercy.

Hosea 6:1 “Come, let us return to the Lord; for He has torn, but He will heal us; He has stricken, but He will bind us up.”

PART FIVE (Chapters 7-9)

God continues to show Hosea the sins of Israel, especially how they relied on nations like Egypt and Assyria for help instead of relying on God.

Hosea 7:10 “And the pride of Israel testifies to his face; but they do not return to the Lord their God, nor seek Him for all this.”

PART SIX (Chapter 10)

Prophecy of Israel being taken captive to Assyria.

Remember, Israel was divided into two main parts: the northern kingdom was called Israel, and the southern kingdom was called Judah. The northern kingdom (Israel) was taken captive to Assyria because of their many sins. But before that happened, God sent many prophets to warn them to repent, leave their sins, return to God’s laws, and one of those prophets was Hosea, who told them:

Hosea 10:5 “The inhabitants of Samaria fear because of the calves of Beth-Aven; for its people mourn for it, and its priests shriek for it, because its glory has departed from it.”

PART SEVEN (Chapters 11-12)

God reminds Israel of His mercy (how He had mercy on them when they were in Egypt), but now they have forsaken Him and do not realize they are in danger.

Hosea 11:1 “When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt, I called My son.”

PART EIGHT (Chapters 13-14)

God continues to call Israel to repentance and warns them of the judgment that will come.

Hosea 14:1 “O Israel, return to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity.”

To conclude, the Book of Hosea is a book of warnings for Israel to return to God, and to repent.

And we (God’s people) are likened to a woman, a bride, and Jesus Christ is our Lord.

2 Corinthians 11:2 “For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.”

Let us be mindful that as the Bride of Christ, if we deliberately engage in sin, spiritually, it is interpreted as committing adultery before the Lord. If you are a thief, a liar, a drunkard, or live in willful sin while claiming to be saved, know that you are making the Lord jealous through this spiritual adultery.

God bless you.

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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“For the Unbelieving Spouse is Sanctified through the Believing Spouse”

QUESTION:
Does 1 Corinthians 7:14 mean that if an unbeliever marries a believer, they are automatically made righteous or saved through the faith of their believing spouse?

1 Corinthians 7:13-14 (NIV):
“And if a woman has a husband who is not a believer and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise, your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.”

Answer:

No this verse does not mean that an unbelieving spouse is saved or made righteous before God simply because they are married to a believer. The broader biblical context makes it clear that salvation is a personal matter, not transferable by association or marriage.

Galatians 6:5 (NIV):
“For each one should carry their own load.”

Romans 14:12 (ESV):
“So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”

“Sanctified” 

The word “sanctified” (Greek: ἡγίασται, hēgiastai) in 1 Corinthians 7:14 does not mean “saved.” It means “set apart” or “made holy” in a relational or ceremonial sense, not a salvific one.

Paul is explaining that the presence of a believing spouse in a mixed faith marriage sanctifies the union and family in a relational and covenantal sense. This does not imply the unbelieving spouse is spiritually regenerated or justified before God.

Rather, the believer brings a spiritual influence and covering into the home, which allows the marriage to remain honorable before God (cf. Hebrews 13:4) and ensures that the children of such a union are not considered ritually “unclean.”

1 Corinthians 7:14 (NLT):
“For the Christian wife brings holiness to her marriage, and the Christian husband brings holiness to his marriage. Otherwise, your children would not be holy, but now they are holy.”

Does This Mean the Unbeliever Is Automatically Saved?

Absolutely not. Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by proximity to someone who believes.

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV):
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast.”

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.”

So, while the unbelieving spouse may experience the blessings and influence of living with a godly partner including love, prayer, godly behavior, and biblical instruction they are not saved unless they personally believe in Christ.

This is why Paul goes on to say:

1 Corinthians 7:16 (NIV):
“How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?”

This question affirms that salvation is uncertain and not guaranteed, even in a godly home. Yet, it also implies that the believer should live in such a way as to give their spouse every opportunity to come to faith.

A Powerful Witness Through Marriage

Many real life testimonies confirm what Paul describes. A spouse may eventually come to faith after witnessing consistent godly conduct and prayer from their believing partner:

1 Peter 3:1-2 (NIV):
“Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.”

However, this spiritual influence is not a substitute for personal faith. An unbelieving spouse who continues to reject Christ will remain lost, despite being married to a believer (cf. John 3:36).

Do Not Marry an Unbeliever

While 1 Corinthians 7 addresses believers who were already married to unbelievers before coming to faith, Scripture elsewhere clearly teaches that Christians should not knowingly enter into marriage with unbelievers.

2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV):
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”

Entering a marital covenant with an unbeliever often leads to spiritual conflict, divided priorities, and compromised faith. Many modern Christian marriage struggles stem from ignoring this command.

If You’re Already Married to an Unbeliever

If you’re already in such a marriage, take courage God can still use you as a vessel of grace and truth. You have a responsibility to:

  • Pray persistently for your spouse’s salvation.
  • Live a godly life that reflects Christ.
  • Model biblical love, patience, and humility.
  • Share the Gospel as opportunities arise, with wisdom and gentleness (cf. Colossians 4:5-6).

Your influence is significant, but your spouse must ultimately choose Christ for themselves.

While 1 Corinthians 7:14 highlights the sanctifying influence of a believer in a mixed marriage, it does not suggest that salvation is automatically granted through marriage. Each person must individually respond to the Gospel. Nevertheless, your faithful witness as a spouse can be a powerful instrument in God’s hands to bring your partner to salvation.

May the Lord give you strength, wisdom, and grace in your marriage.
Remain faithful and trust that God can use your life to lead others to Christ.

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What Is the Difference Between the Scriptures and the Word of God?

 

In Christian teaching, people sometimes distinguish between “the Scriptures” and “the Word of God,” while others use these terms interchangeably. To understand the nuance, we must look carefully at how the Bible itself uses these terms.

1. Scripture and the Word Are Deeply Connected

Jesus Himself affirmed that the Word of God and the Scriptures are interconnected and authoritative. In

John 10:35 (ESV), He says:

If he called them gods to whom the word of God came—and Scripture cannot be broken…

Here, Jesus uses “word of God” and “Scripture” almost interchangeably. Yet, He emphasizes the Scriptures as an unbreakable, fixed authority. The Greek term used for Scripture is graphē (γραφή), which refers specifically to the sacred writings.

2. Scriptures: The Written Word

The term Scriptures always refers to what has been written—what we today recognize as the Holy Bible. This includes the Old Testament, and by extension in the New Testament era, the writings of the apostles and prophets under divine inspiration.

Paul writes in

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV):

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,

that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

This reveals that the Scriptures are God’s written Word—”breathed out” (theopneustos in Greek), meaning inspired and authoritative.

3. The Word of God: Written and Spoken

The Word of God is broader than just the written text. It includes God’s spoken Word—through prophets, visions, and even direct revelation. Hebrews describes this clearly:

Hebrews 1:1–2 (ESV):

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…

God’s Word can come in different forms:

Written (Scriptures – e.g., Bible)

Spoken (Prophetic utterance – e.g., through prophets or dreams)

Living Word (Jesus Christ Himself – see John 1:1, 14)

Jesus is referred to as the Word (Greek: Logos) in

John 1:1, 14 (ESV):

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…

4. Unchanging Nature of Scripture vs. the Conditional Nature of Spoken Revelation

While the spoken Word of God is real and valid, it may be temporary or specific to a situation. God may give a prophetic word for a particular time or purpose, which He may later fulfill, revoke, or update (e.g., Jonah’s prophecy to Nineveh).

However, Scripture is permanent, fixed, and cannot be broken. As Jesus emphasized in John 10:35, it stands forever. The Psalmist also affirms:

Psalm 119:89 (ESV):

Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.

5. Why We Must Anchor Ourselves in Scripture

Jesus rebuked the religious leaders not for lack of zeal, but for ignorance of Scripture:

Mark 12:24 (ESV):

Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God?

We are called to love and study the Bible, recognizing it as our daily bread. As Jesus said:

Matthew 4:4 (ESV):

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

And David declared:

Psalm 119:140 (ESV):

Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it.

Conclusion

So, while the Word of God can come in multiple forms—spoken, written, and even incarnate in Christ—the Scriptures are the preserved, unchanging foundation of that Word. They are our safest and clearest guide. To neglect them is to risk spiritual deception and ruin.

Let us therefore treasure the Bible more than our daily food, anchoring our lives in the eternal truth it holds.

May the Lord bless you as you grow in love for His Word.

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THE RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH HAS HAPPENED TODAY!

“The rapture has taken place today! There is no longer any opportunity for repentance.”

Has this news shocked you?

Ask yourself when this event actually occurs, how will you respond?
So far, the rapture hasn’t happened yet, but when it does, how will you feel when you’re told that the saints have been caught up to be with the Lord, and you have been left behind?

Will you be as shocked as you are now, or will you accept it calmly?

What is the rapture?
The Bible teaches that Jesus will return to take His church all true believers from this earth to be with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ESV):

“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.”

This event is imminent and will happen suddenly (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.”

If you are shocked by this news today, it shows your heart is sensitive to spiritual truth because your true home is not here on earth (Philippians 3:20 ESV):

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

That’s why the thought of being left behind is frightening because it means missing out on the eternal promise.

But it’s not too late!
Jesus invites everyone to repent and receive salvation (Acts 3:19 NIV):

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out.”

Don’t wait until that day when it’s too late. Today, accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior (John 1:12 ESV):

“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

Because the rapture is real, it could happen at any moment. Will you be ready?

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“I Was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day”

Question:
What did John mean when he said, “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day”? Which day is the “Lord’s Day,” and why is it specifically mentioned in Revelation 1:10?

Revelation 1:10 (ESV):
“I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet.”

The Apostle John wrote this while exiled on the island of Patmos (Revelation 1:9), a place of isolation due to his testimony for Jesus Christ. The phrase “in the Spirit” indicates a state of deep spiritual communion or being led by the Holy Spirit, often associated with prophetic revelation (cf. Ezekiel 37:1; Acts 10:19-20).

When John says he was on the “Lord’s Day,” he is referring to a particular day of the week that early Christians recognized as sacred because of Jesus’ resurrection. Historically, the Jewish Sabbath is Saturday (the seventh day), but the early church shifted its primary day of worship to Sunday, the first day of the week, to commemorate Christ’s resurrection (Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:9; Luke 24:1; John 20:1). This day became known as the “Lord’s Day” (Greek: Kyriake hemera)  a term that appears only here in the New Testament.

The Lord’s Day as Sunday:

Mark 16:9 (NIV):
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene…”

  • This passage identifies the first day of the week as the day of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Sunday worship.

John 20:19 (NIV):
“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them…”

  • Here, Jesus’ post resurrection appearances also take place on Sunday, emphasizing its significance.

Acts 20:7 (ESV):
“On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart on the next day…”

  • This shows the early church gathering for worship and communion on Sunday.

1 Corinthians 16:2 (ESV):
“On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collections when I come.”

  • This illustrates Sunday as the designated day for Christian fellowship and giving.

The shift from Saturday (Sabbath) to Sunday (Lord’s Day) in early Christianity was not a rejection of rest and worship but a fulfillment in Christ. Sunday worship celebrates the new creation inaugurated by Christ’s resurrection (2 Corinthians 5:17), symbolizing the new covenant and eternal rest in Him (Hebrews 4:9-10). The Lord’s Day thus becomes a weekly celebration of the paschal mystery Christ’s death and resurrection, which redeemed humanity.

John’s being “in the Spirit” on the Lord’s Day underscores the spiritual readiness and sanctity of the day for receiving divine revelation. This suggests that the Lord’s Day is more than a routine day of worship; it is a special time appointed by God for divine encounter and prophetic insight.

Practical Application:

The early church’s recognition of the Lord’s Day as Sunday set a pattern of dedicated worship, teaching, fellowship, and rest that continues today. It is not that the day itself is inherently holy, but that God honors the commitment of His people when they consecrate time to Him. This dedicated time fosters spiritual renewal and openness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

If your day of worship is Saturday or any other day, the principle remains: honor it as sacred by preparing your heart and spirit, as John did. Avoid worldly distractions that hinder your spiritual experience. Seek solitude, prayer, and scripture study so God can reveal Himself to you.

Warning Against Neglect:

Today, many treat weekly worship as a mere obligation, often distracted by worldly concerns or entertainment. Yet, the Lord’s Day is a divine appointment an opportunity for intimate fellowship with God. Neglecting it risks missing the powerful encounters and transformation God desires to bring about.

Blessing:

Value your day of worship, whether it’s Sunday or another day, and God will surely reveal Himself to you as He did to John on Patmos.

 

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THE LIVING STONE

Power of Jesus Christ

Stones Don’t Live But This One Does

In nature, stones are inanimate. They do not grow, reproduce, or respond to their surroundings. These are essential characteristics of life, as God designed it. Stones are static, cold, and lifeless they do not change or develop over time. This is why, biblically and biologically, stones are not considered living things.

However, the Bible introduces a profound paradox: there is a Stone that lives.

This is not metaphorical in the shallow sense it is deeply theological. The Living Stone is not merely a poetic image, but a divine Person: Jesus Christ, who is alive forevermore, full of power, growth, and spiritual fruitfulness.

“As you come to Him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious…”
1 Peter 2:4, ESV

The Prophetic Stone 

This concept of the Living Stone is rooted in Old Testament prophecy and fulfilled in Christ. In Daniel 2, the prophet interprets King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream about a statue representing earthly kingdoms. The vision climaxes with a stone cut without human hands that destroys the statue and grows into a mountain symbolizing an everlasting kingdom.

“While you were watching, a rock was cut out, but not by human hands. It struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and smashed them.”
Daniel 2:34, NIV

“In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed… It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever.”
Daniel 2:44, NIV

This stone represents Jesus Christ, the Messiah, who came not by human origin (not born through natural conception but of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 1:18). He destroys all human systems of power and sets up God’s unshakable kingdom (Hebrews 12:28).

From Rejection to Cornerstone

Jesus was rejected by men He was not the Messiah the world expected. But in God’s eyes, He was chosen and precious, the foundation of salvation and the cornerstone of the Church.

“The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;”
Psalm 118:22, ESV (quoted in Matthew 21:42, Mark 12:10, and Luke 20:17)

Peter, writing under the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, connects this directly to Jesus:

“Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,’ and, ‘A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.’”
1 Peter 2:7–8, NIV

For believers, Christ is the firm foundation. For unbelievers, He is the stumbling stone the very truth they trip over because of their refusal to believe (cf. Romans 9:32–33).

The Living Stone That Grows and Multiplies

Christ is not just a static foundation He is living. He rose from the dead (Matthew 28:6; Revelation 1:18), ascended to the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 1:3), and is actively building His Church.

“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
1 Peter 2:5, NIV

We, as believers, are joined to Christ and share in His life. We are “living stones,” formed and fashioned into a spiritual temple a place of worship, indwelt by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16–17; Ephesians 2:19–22).

The Kingdom That Crushes All Others

Just as Daniel foresaw a rock shattering earthly kingdoms, Revelation confirms Christ will return to establish His eternal reign:

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”
Revelation 11:15, ESV

Those who oppose Him will be broken. Jesus Himself warned of this:

“Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”
Matthew 21:44, NIV

This is a call to humble ourselves before Christ now, rather than be judged by Him later. Receive Him as Savior or face Him as Judge.

The Living Stone That Gives Life

Diamonds, though incredibly valuable, are lifeless. Kings, politicians, and powerful people may appear strong, but their influence fades. They are, spiritually speaking, like dead stones. Only Jesus Christ the Living Stone can give true, eternal life.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live…'”
John 11:25, ESV

To believe in Jesus is to be made alive (Ephesians 2:4–5). As a Living Stone, He enables His followers to also grow, bear fruit, and participate in His mission on Earth.

Our Identity in the Living Stone

When we are joined to Christ, we take on His nature. In the Spirit, we become part of the same divine building project, able to tear down the works of darkness and multiply others into the faith through discipleship and evangelism.

“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”
1 John 3:8, NIV

“Go and make disciples of all nations…”
Matthew 28:19, NIV

We are not just passive believers we are living agents of God’s Kingdom, empowered by the same resurrection life that raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 8:11).

Trust the Living Stone

All other sources of security wealth, power, influence are like dead stones. They may appear valuable, but they cannot save. Only Jesus Christ, the Living Stone, is worthy of our full trust.

To believe in Him is to be made alive. To reject Him is to stumble and fall.

Will you build your life on the Living Stone?

Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus!)

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