Title June 2022

THE WITCHCRAFT OF FALSE PROPHETS

There are two types of witches mentioned in spiritual teachings:

1. Ordinary witches

These are the well known practitioners of witchcraft who engage in physical acts of sorcery casting spells, flying on broomsticks or other mystical objects, invoking spirits, and causing harm primarily to a person’s physical body or circumstances. Their influence is generally limited to physical afflictions or misfortunes.

2. False Prophets

This second group is far more dangerous and spiritually destructive. Unlike ordinary witches who affect the body, false prophets work spiritually to deceive and lead people away from faith in Jesus Christ, ultimately causing them to forfeit eternal life.

This aligns with the Apostle Paul’s warning in the Book of Galatians, where he describes those who have been “bewitched” away from the gospel of grace.

Galatians 3:1-3 (NIV):
“You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?”

Here, Paul condemns false teachers who tried to bring believers back under the law after they had embraced the freedom of faith in Christ. The spiritual “witchcraft” is the deceit that leads believers away from grace back into bondage to legalism or other false teachings.

Jesus also warns us explicitly about false prophets:
Matthew 7:15 (KJV):
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”

False prophets appear harmless or even holy but inwardly are destructive. They are like wolves disguised as sheep, aiming to devour the flock.

The Nature of False Prophets as Spiritual Witches

False prophets can appear very spiritual, often using Christian terminology and practices anointing, preaching, casting out demons but their purpose is to lead people away from the true gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. They do not envy your earthly success or blessings; rather, their chief aim is to keep your soul from inheriting eternal life.

This is the core of their “witchcraft”: spiritual deception that kills the soul.

Biblical Example: Elymas the Sorcerer

In Acts 13:6-8 (NIV), we see a prime example of a false prophet described as a sorcerer and false prophet:
“When they arrived at Paphos on the island, they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar Jesus. He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. The proconsul called for Barnabas and Saul and wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.”

Elymas represents those who use spiritual deception to block people from coming to faith, working against God’s kingdom from within religious contexts.

The Deceptive Comfort of False Teachers

Beware of any preacher or teacher who encourages complacency in sin by telling you that you are loved and accepted by God while you continue living in ongoing unrepentant sin.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (NIV) warns:
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”

False teachers often distort God’s grace to excuse sin rather than calling for genuine repentance and transformation by the Holy Spirit.

The Works of the Flesh

The Apostle Paul in Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV) lists the “works of the flesh,” which are evident sinful behaviors that prevent inheriting God’s kingdom:
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

False prophets either live in these sins themselves or tolerate them in their followers, denying the call to holiness.

Call to Discernment and Faithfulness

We are called to study God’s Word deeply, test every spirit (1 John 4:1), and remain faithful to the gospel of grace. False prophets exploit ignorance and spiritual immaturity to mislead many.

Jesus Christ is coming again, and these are the last days. We must be vigilant, rooted in the truth of Scripture, and live holy lives in obedience to God.

Maranatha!


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Is Shaving Hair and Beards a Sin?

Answer:

To understand whether shaving one’s hair or beard is a sin, we must first reflect on a related question: Is it sinful to shape or trim your eyebrows?

If shaping eyebrows is considered inappropriate because it alters one’s God given appearance for the sake of vanity or conformity to worldly trends, then it follows that shaving the hair on one’s head or beard might also fall under similar concerns. All of these involve the removal or reshaping of hair that naturally grows on the head a part of our body created by God. To condemn one and excuse the other may reveal a form of hypocrisy.

This may be difficult to accept, but Scripture calls us to live according to God’s truth, not according to cultural trends. I, too, once followed these practices, but as I grew in the Word and understood God’s standards more clearly, I changed and I will continue to change as the Holy Spirit reveals more to me.

What Does the Bible Say?

Leviticus 19:27 (ESV) says:

“You shall not round off the hair on your temples or mar the edges of your beard.”

In this passage, God is giving laws to the Israelites to separate them from the idolatrous nations surrounding them. Pagans in Canaan often shaved or marked their hair and beards in ritualistic patterns as acts of worship to false gods. God’s people were to be set apart holy in appearance, conduct, and worship.

The Hebrew word used here for “mar” (shachath) means to ruin, destroy, or corrupt. The implication is that shaping one’s beard or temples (sides of the head) in specific ways can be seen as tampering with God’s design for our appearance, especially when done to imitate worldly or pagan styles.

Our Bodies as Temples of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 3:16–17 (NKJV) says:

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”

This passage teaches that our physical bodies are sacred because the Holy Spirit lives within us. Therefore, how we present ourselves physically matters. While the passage primarily refers to spiritual and moral purity, the principle of honoring God with our bodies extends to how we treat and represent ourselves externally.

Romans 12:1–2 (ESV) reinforces this:

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”

Conformity to worldly standards in grooming especially when driven by vanity, pride, or imitation of ungodly trends can conflict with our call to be distinct as followers of Christ.

Should Christians Avoid All Grooming?

This does not mean believers should be unkempt or careless in appearance. Scripture values cleanliness and order. For instance, 2 Samuel 12:20 shows King David grooming himself after a time of mourning. The key is not in grooming but in intent. Are we doing it to honor God and present ourselves well or are we driven by vanity and a desire to fit into worldly molds?

Christians can be neat, clean, and presentable without altering their God given identity or imitating patterns associated with worldliness or rebellion against God’s order.

A Call to Authentic Holiness

Our external appearance communicates something about our internal convictions. If we appear no different from the world, how will unbelievers see the distinctiveness of the gospel? Jesus said in Matthew 5:14–16 (ESV):

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Let us not present a lukewarm faith neither hot nor cold one that Jesus sternly warns against:

Revelation 3:16 (ESV):

“So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.”

As believers, we are called to pursue holiness in every area of life including how we care for and present our bodies. Shaving or reshaping hair or beards becomes problematic when it’s done in imitation of worldly styles, as an act of vanity, or in contradiction to the set-apart identity we are called to uphold.

We are temples of the Holy Spirit. Let’s honor that temple in a way that glorifies God and reflects the holiness to which we’ve been called.

Maranatha Come, Lord Jesus!


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What Does ” to cool” Mean in the Bible? (Matthew 10:8)

Understanding the Term to cool
In english, the word to cool is a synonym for heal, which both mean “to heal”. These words are used interchangeably to refer to physical, emotional, and spiritual restoration. In biblical context, healing (to cool) is not merely the alleviation of physical symptoms but often a sign of the in breaking of God’s Kingdom a divine act that points to the redemptive power of Christ.

1. Jesus’ Commission to Heal

Jesus Christ gave His disciples clear authority to heal the sick as part of their mission to proclaim the Kingdom of God. Healing was not an optional addition but central to the Gospel message.

Matthew 10:7–8 (NIV):

“As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’
Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.”

Healing in this passage is part of the tangible demonstration that the Kingdom of Heaven has come near. The authority was not based on personal power, but on the delegated authority of Christ Himself (see Matthew 28:18–20).

2. Healing in the Ministry of the Apostles

After receiving authority from Jesus, the apostles actively healed the sick, demonstrating that the same Spirit that was in Christ was now working through them.

Mark 6:12–13 (ESV):

“So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent.
And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.”

The use of oil, as noted here, became a symbol of consecration and the Holy Spirit (cf. James 5:14). Healing confirmed the truth of their preaching and the presence of God’s power.

3. Healing Beyond the Twelve Apostles

Healing wasn’t restricted to the original twelve apostles. It extended to other believers filled with the Holy Spirit, such as Paul, Stephen, and Barnabas.

Acts 28:8–9 (NIV):

“His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him.
When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured.”

This passage confirms that healing continued as a work of the Holy Spirit through the broader Church, not just the twelve apostles. Paul’s healing ministry was also evident in Acts 19:11–12, where “God did extraordinary miracles through Paul.”

4. Healing as a Continuing Sign for Believers

Jesus Himself said that miraculous signs, including healing, would accompany those who believe not just leaders or apostles.

Mark 16:17–18 (NIV):

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues;
they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”

This shows that divine healing is still part of the believer’s spiritual inheritance and calling. Healing is one of the signs of faith-filled ministry in the Church Age.

5. Theological Implication of Healing Today

Healing is more than physical restoration it is a foretaste of the ultimate healing and redemption that will come in the New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation 21:4). Yet, even now, believers are called to minister healing as part of proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom. This aligns with the apostolic pattern and the early Church’s experience.

James 5:14–15 (NIV):

“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.
And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.”

This affirms that healing through prayer, faith, and community is a normative practice in the Church.


Jesus Still Heals Today

The healing ministry is not a thing of the past. Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8, NIV). The power to heal, to cool, is still available to the Church today through the Holy Spirit. As we preach the Gospel and pray in faith, we can expect the Lord to confirm His Word with signs, including healing.

Maranatha! (Come, O Lord!)


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What Is Divination According to the Bible?

Divination is a practice rooted in the kingdom of darkness, often associated with witch doctors, sorcerers, and those influenced by familiar spirits who claim to predict future events. In biblical terms, divination involves seeking knowledge or guidance from sources other than God, which is strictly forbidden.

People historically engaged in divination through various means such as palm reading, casting lots, or examining animal organs (haruspicy).

Biblical Prohibition of Divination

In the Old Testament, God explicitly forbade the Israelites from practicing divination and sorcery. This prohibition was part of God’s covenant law, designed to keep His people separate from pagan customs and reliant solely on Him.

2 Kings 17:16-20 (NIV):
“They forsook all the commands of the Lord their God and made for themselves two idols cast in the shape of calves… They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire. They practiced divination and sought omens… and aroused the Lord’s anger. So the Lord was very angry with Israel and removed them from his presence… Only the tribe of Judah was left. Even Judah did not keep the commands of the Lord their God but followed the practices Israel had introduced.”

This passage highlights the spiritual downfall that came with engaging in divination disobedience to God led to exile and judgment.

Does Divination Actually Work?

A common question is whether divination truly reveals the future. The biblical answer is a clear no.

  • Satan’s Limitations: Satan does not have omniscience. He cannot predict the future, just as humans cannot. Only God possesses perfect knowledge of past, present, and future.

God’s Sovereignty: According to Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV), God declares:
“I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning…”
This confirms that foreknowledge of future events belongs to God alone.

  • Satan’s Deception: Satan may arrange circumstances to give the illusion of prophecy or prediction. For instance, a witch doctor might name visitors who then unexpectedly arrive, but this is orchestrated through demonic influence rather than genuine foreknowledge.

How Divination Works Spiritually

When a person seeks divination, they open themselves to demonic manipulation. Witch doctors and mediums do not truly see the future; they communicate with spirits who create scenarios to deceive people into thinking their predictions are accurate.

This is why Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (NIV) condemns divination and related practices:

“Let no one be found among you who… practices divination or sorcery… Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

  • Idolatry and False Worship: Divination often involves worshiping false gods or spirits, violating the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3).
  • Separation from God: Seeking knowledge from occult sources breaks the believer’s fellowship with God and invites spiritual bondage.
  • False Security: Any blessings or prophecies obtained through divination are counterfeit and ultimately lead to curses, as Satan’s goal is to destroy (John 10:10).

The True Source of Prophecy

For those seeking to understand their future, the Bible is the authoritative source. God reveals His plans through Scripture and the Holy Spirit. Believers are encouraged to trust God’s Word for guidance rather than turn to occult practices.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV):
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Divination is a deceptive practice condemned by God, originating from Satan’s lies. It does not reveal the future but creates falsehoods that lead people away from God. Only God knows the future perfectly, and His Word offers the true hope and guidance we need.

If you want to know what tomorrow holds, immerse yourself in God’s Word and trust in His promises.

Maranatha!


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“Not Given to Much Wine” Is a Little Still Acceptable?

1 Timothy 3:8 (NIV)
“In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.”

This verse is often misunderstood. Some interpret it to mean that a moderate amount of alcohol is permissible for Christians, as long as they avoid excess. But this raises a critical question: Is a little wine acceptable for believers today? What is the scriptural and theological foundation for Paul’s instruction?


1. Context Matters: A Word on Spiritual Discernment

2 Corinthians 3:6 (ESV)
“Who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Without the illumination of the Holy Spirit, one can misuse Scripture to justify sin. Satan himself quoted Scripture to tempt Jesus (see Matthew 4:6–7), twisting its context. Jesus responded with discernment, rightly dividing the Word (cf. 2 Timothy 2:15).

So, Paul’s statement in 1 Timothy 3:8 must be read in full context and with Spirit-led understanding. Let’s examine Paul’s advice to Timothy more closely.


2. Medicinal Use vs. Recreational Use

1 Timothy 5:23 (NIV)
“Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.”

Here, Paul advises Timothy to take a little wine for medicinal purposes. The Greek word used here for “wine” is oinos, which refers to fermented wine, not just grape juice. However, Paul limits the quantity to “a little” (oligon, Greek: ὀλίγον), clearly indicating moderation and purpose not indulgence or recreation.

This instruction is pastoral and practical. Timothy likely avoided wine entirely to uphold his reputation as a church leader, but Paul, knowing his health challenges, recommends a medicinal allowance. It is not a blanket endorsement of social drinking.


3. Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient world, water quality was poor, and small amounts of wine were sometimes mixed with water to purify it or treat stomach issues. Moreover, wine had topical uses as a disinfectant for wounds.

Luke 10:34 (KJV)
“And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine…”

The Good Samaritan uses wine as an antiseptic. This aligns with the broader Greco-Roman medicinal practices of the time.

Therefore, when Paul permits “a little wine” for Timothy, he is not encouraging social drinking, but recognizing a common medical treatment of the day.


4. Drunkenness Is a Sin

Ephesians 5:18 (NIV)
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”

Paul directly contrasts being “filled” with wine and being “filled” with the Holy Spirit. One leads to loss of control and moral compromise; the other to godly living and spiritual empowerment.

Galatians 5:21 (NIV)
“Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Drunkenness is listed alongside other works of the flesh that disqualify one from the kingdom of God. The Bible makes no allowance for casual intoxication.


5. The Modern Application: Do We Still Need Wine Medicinally?

In today’s world, we have access to clean water, pharmaceuticals, and advanced medicine. There is no longer a need for wine to serve as a treatment for illness. The argument for medicinal use of alcohol has little practical relevance today outside of rare cases or remote locations.

Thus, to use 1 Timothy 5:23 as justification for casual drinking is to misuse the text.


6. Summary

  • Paul’s instructions in 1 Timothy 3:8 and 5:23 are not contradictory. One prohibits excess, the other permits medicinal moderation.
  • The purpose of wine in Scripture, where permitted, was functional, cultural, or symbolic, not recreational.
  • Drunkenness is explicitly condemned in both Old and New Testaments (see also Proverbs 20:1, Isaiah 5:11, Romans 13:13).
  • In the New Covenant, believers are called to holiness and self-control (cf. Titus 2:11–12), filled not with wine but with the Spirit of God.

A Final Call: Repentance and Salvation

Galatians 5:19–21 (NIV) clearly warns that habitual sin, including drunkenness, excludes one from God’s kingdom. If you are caught in addiction or compromise, turn to Christ.

Acts 3:19 (NIV)
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Do not delay. Receive Jesus, be cleansed, and walk in the newness of life.

Maranatha Come, Lord Jesus!


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“No One Dared Join Them”

Key Verse:

“None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem.”
Acts 5:13 (ESV)

1. Context: The Power and Purity of the Early Church

In Acts 5:12–16, the early church is experiencing explosive growth, accompanied by dramatic signs and wonders. The apostles are not only preaching boldly but healing the sick and casting out demons. These events follow the sobering account of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11), whose deceit before God led to their immediate death. The fear of God falls on the entire community (v.11), and the standard of holiness is unmistakably high.

“Many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico.”  Acts 5:12 (ESV)

2. The Fear of God and the Cost of Discipleship

The statement, “no one else dared join them,” reflects the awe and fear with which outsiders viewed the apostolic community. Though the people respected and admired them, they were hesitant to associate too closely due to the cost of such discipleship. The fear was both spiritual (from God’s judgment, as seen in Ananias and Sapphira) and social (persecution from Jewish authorities).

“No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people.”  Acts 5:13 (NIV)

This kind of hesitation is rooted in what Dietrich Bonhoeffer famously called “the cost of discipleship.” Following Jesus was not a casual choice; it required full surrender even unto death. The apostles were fearless in the face of persecution, imprisonment, and even martyrdom (see Acts 5:40-42, Acts 7:54-60).

3. The Apostolic Model: Boldness in the Face of Opposition

The apostles didn’t retreat or compromise. They continued ministering openly in Jerusalem even in the same temple courts where Jesus had confronted the religious establishment and where they themselves had been arrested.

“But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, ‘Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.’”
Acts 5:19–20 (ESV)

Despite the very real threats, they obeyed God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Their lives embodied radical obedience, a theme repeated throughout Acts (e.g., Acts 4:19–20).

4. True Faith Often Stays Quiet Under Pressure

We also see a parallel in John 12:42, where some religious leaders believed in Jesus but kept silent for fear of losing their status:

“Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue.”  John 12:42 (NIV)

This contrast helps explain Acts 5:13: even among those who admired the apostles, many were not willing to risk public association.

5. Apostles Remain While Others Scatter

When persecution broke out in Jerusalem, believers scattered for safety but not the apostles. They remained at the center of the conflict, standing firm in their mission.

“A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.”  Acts 8:1 (NIV)

Their unwavering commitment reveals a depth of faith and calling that went beyond admiration. This is discipleship at its highest cost.

6. Implications for Modern Servants of God

Theologically, Acts 5:13 is a powerful call to holiness, courage, and deep devotion. Those called to ministry must be willing to live lives of uncompromising obedience, even when it’s unpopular or dangerous. People may admire bold faith from a distance but very few are ready to walk that narrow path (cf. Matthew 7:13–14).

True ministry demands a higher standard of self-denial and dedication:

“Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’”Matthew 16:24 (ESV)

A Call to Courage and Commitment

God uses those who are willing to go deeper those who are willing to stay when others run, to speak when others are silent, and to endure when others fall away. That’s what set the apostles apart, and that’s what will set apart every faithful servant of God today.

May we be counted among those who not only admire but follow at any cost.

Shalom.


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Understanding the Biblical Meaning of Retailate in biblical?


“To retailate,” “to avange,” .In a biblical context, it reflects the idea of God bringing correction or judgment upon individuals or nations due to sin or disobedience. For instance, rather than saying “someone was struck by God,” meaning God allowed discipline or punishment to reach them.

Does God Really Punish People?

Yes, Scripture affirms that God disciplines both the wicked and even His own people when they stray from His commands. But God’s punishment is not driven by vengeance; it is always aimed at repentance and restoration.

“The Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”
Proverbs 3:12 (NIV)

God’s discipline is a sign of His love, not His wrath. He corrects to bring people back into alignment with His will, not to destroy them.


Punishment as a Call to Repentance

When people face calamities whether personal, national, or global they often serve as divine wake up calls. God uses such moments to urge His people to turn from sin and return to Him.

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)

When we repent, God often lifts the judgment and restores us.

The Prophet Jonah

A clear example is the prophet Jonah, who tried to run from God’s calling. Thinking he could avoid God’s instruction, Jonah faced a storm and was swallowed by a great fish.

“Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Jonah 1:17 (NIV)

Jonah’s suffering led to repentance. After praying in the fish’s belly, God delivered him and gave him a second chance (Jonah 2–3). This shows that God’s discipline was meant to correct, not destroy.


Generational Consequences of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin can have effects that ripple through generations:

“You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”
Exodus 20:5 (NIV)

This does not mean God is unjustly punishing innocent people, but that the effects of sin can be inherited through continual rebellion. However, the cycle is broken through repentance and obedience.

“Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”
Exodus 34:7 (NIV)


Spiritual Warfare and the Authority of Believers

In Christ, believers are given authority to confront evil and demolish spiritual strongholds through prayer, truth, and the Word of God.

“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
2 Corinthians 10:3–4 (NIV)

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.”
2 Corinthians 10:5–6 (NIV)

Believers can spiritually  strike back against the works of the enemy by proclaiming God’s truth, resisting temptation, and interceding for others.


How Do We Engage in Spiritual Discipline and Warfare?

  1. Through Prayer

“Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”  Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)

  1. Through the Word of God

“For the word of God is alive active. Sharper than any double edged sword…”

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

  1. Through Preaching the Gospel

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season…”  2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV)


God’s Discipline Leads to Life

God’s judgment is never without purpose. It is intended to lead people to repentance, to restore righteousness, and to draw us closer to Him. Just as a loving parent corrects a child, God corrects His children for their good.

“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?”
Hebrews 12:7 (NIV)

Let us respond to His discipline with humility, turn away from sin, and walk in the freedom and authority Christ has given us.

Maranatha  Come, Lord Jesus!


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HOW MANY TYPES OF PRAYER ARE THERE?

 

Prayer is a vital part of every believer’s spiritual life, and the Bible shows us that there are various forms of prayer. While methods may differ, all prayer typically falls under five major categories. Understanding and practicing these types of prayer can bring spiritual maturity and intimacy with God.


1. Prayer of Praise and Worship

Praise and worship are more than a prelude to a service—they are spiritual acts of devotion that ascend to God as powerful prayers. These forms of prayer acknowledge God’s character and works. Worship focuses not on asking for anything, but simply adoring God for who He is—holy, loving, sovereign, and faithful.

Jesus emphasized the importance of worship in John 4:23-24, saying,

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

David also exemplifies this in the Psalms, such as Psalm 103:1,

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name!”

When we praise, we invite God’s presence:

“You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel.”Psalm 22:3 (NKJV)

True worship breaks spiritual barriers and releases God’s presence, power, and peace. That’s why praise should always lead our prayer and worship gatherings.


2. Intercessory Prayer

Intercession is selfless prayer made on behalf of others. It reflects the heart of Christ, who even now “lives to intercede” for us (Hebrews 7:25). It includes praying for family, fellow believers, the lost, leaders, nations—even our enemies.

In Daniel 9, the prophet Daniel fasted and interceded for Israel’s sins, acknowledging God’s righteousness and pleading for mercy. God responded with revelation and favor.

Jesus Himself prayed for His followers in John 17, and He commanded us to follow His example.

“Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”James 5:16 (NIV)

Through intercession, we cooperate with God in His redemptive work on earth. It can bring healing, deliverance, and revival.


3. Prayer of Petition (Supplication)

Petitionary prayer is when we present our needs and desires before God. While God already knows what we need (Matthew 6:8), He still calls us to ask in faith.

Jesus taught us to pray,

“Give us this day our daily bread”Matthew 6:11

He also encouraged boldness in prayer:

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”Matthew 7:7

In Luke 11:11–13, Jesus compares our Heavenly Father to earthly fathers, assuring us that God delights in giving good gifts—especially the Holy Spirit—to those who ask.

“How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”Luke 11:13

Asking is not selfish when it’s done in humility and dependence on God. It shows trust in His provision and goodness.


4. Prayer of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is an essential and continuous form of prayer. It acknowledges God’s past faithfulness and builds faith for the future.

Paul instructs believers:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”1 Thessalonians 5:18

And again:

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful.”Colossians 3:15

Thanksgiving honors God and cultivates a grateful heart. It helps shift our focus from our needs to His grace and provision. Like the one leper who returned to thank Jesus in Luke 17:11–19, thanksgiving sets us apart and leads to greater blessing.


5. Spiritual Warfare Prayer

This is prayer that confronts and overcomes the forces of darkness. It involves using spiritual authority in Christ to bind, rebuke, and resist the devil. Believers are called to be spiritually alert and actively engage in the battle.

Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:12,

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Jesus has already won the victory at the cross, and we enforce that victory in prayer.

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”Revelation 12:11

Warrior prayers declare God’s Word and promises while resisting Satan’s lies. They are aggressive, faith-filled, and based on our authority in Christ (Luke 10:19).


Conclusion

If believers learn to embrace and practice all five types of prayer—Praise and Worship, Intercession, Petition, Thanksgiving, and Spiritual Warfare—they will become spiritually strong and effective in their walk with God.

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”James 5:16 (NKJV)

Shalom.

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What Does the Bible Mean by “Where Sin Abounded, Grace Abounded Much More”?

Let’s examine a profound verse from Scripture:

Romans 5:20 (NKJV)

Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.”

This verse speaks to the heart of God’s redemptive plan. To fully grasp its meaning, we need to explore the nature of sin, the purpose of the law, and the overwhelming generosity of God’s grace through Jesus Christ.


Understanding the Context

The Apostle Paul, in Romans 5, explains how sin entered the world through one man—Adam—and how death followed as a result. But Paul also reveals that through another man—Jesus Christ—life and righteousness became available to all who believe.

Romans 5:12 (NKJV)

Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned…”

When Paul says, “where sin abounded, grace abounded much more,” he is emphasizing that no matter how great the sin, God’s grace is greater still. It’s not a license to sin, but a powerful assurance that God’s forgiveness surpasses human failure.


The Role of the Law

The law of Moses was introduced not to solve the problem of sin but to expose it—to make people aware of how deeply embedded sin is in human nature.

Galatians 3:24 (NKJV)

Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”

By increasing awareness of sin, the law prepared the way for people to recognize their need for a Savior. As sin became more apparent, the need for divine intervention became more urgent.


Real-Life Examples to Understand Grace

1. Public vs. Private Transportation

Imagine the cost of traveling from one city to another. If you take a public bus, it’s relatively cheap because the cost is shared among many passengers. But if you drive alone, you pay for fuel, maintenance, and other costs—likely ten times more.

In the same way, salvation is extremely costly—paid in full by the blood of Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:20). But because many need it, God has made it freely available through His grace.


2. Free Medication for Widespread Illnesses

Diseases like tuberculosis or COVID-19 prompted governments to distribute expensive medicine for free. Why? Because they affected many people, and preventing a larger crisis was worth the cost.

Likewise, when sin spread to all of humanity, God responded—not by condemning the world—but by offering salvation freely through Christ.

John 3:17 (NKJV)

“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”


Why Didn’t Jesus Come Immediately After Adam Sinned?

Some may wonder why Jesus didn’t come right after Adam’s fall. Theologically, this is significant: the fullness of time had not yet come.

Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV)

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son… to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.”

God’s grace was revealed when the human condition had worsened—so the depth of His mercy could be fully seen and appreciated.


Grace Does Not Excuse Sin—It Transforms the Sinner

While grace is greater than sin, it does not mean sin is to be taken lightly. On the contrary, those who receive grace are called to repent and live righteously.

Romans 6:1-2 (NKJV)

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”

Salvation is received by:

  • Believing in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16)

  • Repenting of sins (Acts 2:38)

  • Being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)

  • Receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Romans 8:9)

This is the biblical path to entering into the grace of God.


Responding to Grace Today

If the Holy Spirit is convicting your heart today—whether it’s about your lifestyle, appearance, habits, or attitudes—don’t harden your heart.

Hebrews 10:29 (NKJV)

Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot… and insulted the Spirit of grace?”

God’s grace is available now, but the door won’t remain open forever. The day of judgment is coming.

Hebrews 3:15 (NKJV)

Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”


Need Help?

If you’ve not yet received Jesus Christ as your Savior or would like to be baptized according to Scripture, reach out to us. We are here to guide you to a local church or pastor who can assist you wherever you are.


Maranatha – the Lord is coming soon!
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FAITHFULNESS: A KEY QUALIFICATION FOR BEING USED BY GOD

Greetings in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him belong all glory, honor, and praise, now and forevermore Amen.

Today, let us reflect on a powerful truth from Scripture: God entrusts His divine assignments to those who are faithful. While we often ask God to use us mightily, we must first examine whether our hearts are aligned with His values. Faithfulness is not only a moral virtue; it is a spiritual prerequisite for divine promotion.

1. GOD USES THOSE WHO ARE FAITHFUL TO HIS PURPOSE

Many believers pray earnestly, asking God to use them as He used great men and women in Scripture. But we must remember: God’s calling is not random. It follows divine principles. One key principle is this God promotes those who have already proven faithful with what they have.

Example: Moses

Moses’ story is not just about leadership it’s about a heart committed to God’s people, even when it costs him everything. Raised in Pharaoh’s palace (Exodus 2:10), Moses had access to wealth, comfort, and power. But Hebrews 11:24–25 (NIV) tells us:

“By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.”

Before God called Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3), Moses had already shown compassion and justice by defending a Hebrew slave (Exodus 2:11–12). Although he acted rashly, his heart showed that he valued God’s people over worldly privilege. His 40 years in the wilderness were not punishment they were preparation.

Acts 7:35–36 (NIV) says:

“This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God Himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush.”

God chose him not just for his ability, but because his heart had already aligned with God’s mission.


2. START WITH WHAT YOU HAVE GOD WATCHES THE SMALL THINGS

Many want to lead large ministries or be entrusted with wealth for kingdom work. But Jesus made this principle clear:

Luke 16:10 (NIV)

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”

God evaluates our faithfulness in small responsibilities before releasing bigger ones.

Example: David

Before David became Israel’s king, he was a simple shepherd. His role may have seemed insignificant, but God was watching. When lions and bears came for the sheep, David didn’t flee he fought to protect them.

1 Samuel 17:34–36 (NIV) recounts his testimony:

“When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth… The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.”

David’s courage and responsibility with sheep proved his readiness to shepherd a nation. Faithfulness in obscurity leads to favor in the spotlight.


3. GIVING REVEALS A FAITHFUL HEART

We often pray like Solomon for divine wealth and wisdom. But the question is what are you doing with the little you already have?

Proverbs 3:9 (NIV) teaches us:

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.”

Faithfulness includes sacrificial generosity. If God can’t trust you with small financial blessings, why would He entrust you with more?

The Macedonian churches are a great example. In their poverty, they gave beyond what was expected:

2 Corinthians 8:2–3 (NIV)

“In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.”

Faithfulness isn’t measured only by actions it’s revealed in motives and sacrifice.


4. PAUL’S TESTIMONY: TRUSTED BECAUSE OF FAITHFULNESS

Paul, once a persecutor of the church, was entrusted with apostleship because he proved faithful after his conversion.

1 Timothy 1:12 (NIV)

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me trustworthy, appointing me to His service.”

Faithfulness is what God sees not just potential or talent. Paul endured hardship, imprisonment, and persecution, yet he remained faithful. That’s why God expanded his influence across nations.

Whatever you are praying and hoping for be it ministry, resources, spiritual gifts, or leadership God is willing to give. But He is looking at your faithfulness today.

Galatians 6:9 (NIV) encourages us:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Your faithfulness now is the seed for what you’re believing for tomorrow. Serve God where you are. Be honest, diligent, sacrificial, and loyal to His people. Whether in public or private, God sees and rewards faithfulness.

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.” (Matthew 25:21, NIV)


Shalom. May God find you faithful.

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