Who Were the Sons of Asaph in the Bible?
Before we explore who the Sons of Asaph were, it’s important to first understand Asaph himself.
Asaph was a prominent Levite who was appointed by King David as the chief musician for the worship of God. He was tasked with leading the people in singing and praise before the Ark of the Covenant. Asaph’s role was vital because the Ark represented the very presence of God among the people of Israel.
In 1 Chronicles 6:31-32, we see Asaph’s position:
“These are the men David appointed to lead the singing of praises before the tabernacle of the Lord, after the ark came to rest. They ministered with music before the tabernacle, as David had ordered.”
Asaph’s position was deeply spiritual, not only as a musician but also as a seer or prophet. This is highlighted in 2 Chronicles 29:30, where we see that the Levites were commanded to sing praises to God with the words of David and Asaph the seer:
“Moreover, King Hezekiah and the officials commanded the Levites to sing praises to the Lord with the words of David and Asaph the seer. So they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed down and worshiped.”
Asaph’s descendants continued his legacy of worship. After the Babylonian exile, his lineage was reinstated, and they were still serving as singers and worship leaders in the temple. Ezra 2:41 states:
“The singers: the descendants of Asaph, 128.”
This shows that Asaph’s ministry was not only prophetic but also generational, passing down the responsibility of worship and praise to his children and their descendants.
Some of the Psalms in the Bible are attributed to Asaph, especially Psalms 50 and Psalms 73-83. These Psalms are known as Psalms of Asaph, and they carry the deep prophetic messages from God, showing how Asaph and his family were used by God to deliver prophetic words through music and worship.
Who Are the Sons of Asaph Today?
In the New Testament, we are called to be “priests” (1 Peter 2:9) — a royal priesthood dedicated to God, offering spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ. Just as Asaph was chosen to lead in worship, the Sons of Asaph today represent those who serve God in worship and praise — using music as a means of declaring God’s glory and ministering to His people.
In the Old Testament, the role of Asaph and his descendants was crucial in leading Israel’s worship. Similarly, today, those who serve in worship ministries—whether they are singers, musicians, or worship leaders—carry the mantle of leading God’s people into His presence.
This ministry is a holy calling, requiring purity and dedication to God.
In 1 Chronicles 16:29, the Bible says:
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.”
Here, worship is to be done in the beauty of holiness. This means that worship ministry is not just about performance or entertainment. It is about coming before God with a heart of reverence and purity, offering our praises in a way that reflects His holiness.
However, there is a danger in modern worship ministry. Many gospel musicians today have turned worship into performance, treating it like an art form rather than a sacred ministry. Some have adopted worldly styles, dressing inappropriately and dancing suggestively, forgetting that true worship is not about personal glory, but about glorifying God.
The Bible warns us against such behavior. In Amos 6:5, God condemns Israel’s worship leaders for turning their worship into something self-serving:
“You strum away on your harps like David and improvise on musical instruments.”
This verse illustrates how Israel had corrupted their worship, making it about showmanship rather than sincerity and holiness.
Today, the warning is the same. True worship comes from a pure heart. The Sons of Asaph are called to lead in spiritual sincerity, offering praises that reflect God’s holiness and glory.
Lessons for Worship Leaders Today
Holiness in Worship
Just as Asaph and his descendants ministered before the Ark in holiness, today’s worship leaders must also ensure that their lives reflect holiness. The Bible clearly states that worship is not just a public activity — it reflects the heart of the one offering it. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges us:
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Our worship must be a living sacrifice, where our lives — our actions, thoughts, and words — are set apart for God.
Avoiding Hypocrisy
Worship is not just about how we perform in front of others. It is about sincerity before God. The Bible warns us about those who offer lip service while their hearts are far from God. In Isaiah 29:13, God rebukes the people for their false worship:
“The Lord says: ‘These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.'”
If we worship with hypocrisy, we lose the true essence of worship. It becomes mere entertainment rather than a sacred offering.
The Call to Purity in Worship Ministry
Worship leaders today must remember that their service is before God. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul encourages Timothy:
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
This instruction applies not just to age, but to holiness in all aspects of life. Worship leaders should set an example in their speech, conduct, and lifestyle, ensuring that everything they do points people to God, not to themselves.
Conclusion
The Sons of Asaph were chosen by God to lead Israel in worship and praise. Today, this ministry continues, and those who serve in worship should be deeply aware of the responsibility and holiness required.
God is calling today’s worship leaders to follow the example of Asaph and his descendants. Worship should be done “in the beauty of holiness” — reflecting the holiness and purity of God.
This is not just a musical task; it is a spiritual and prophetic ministry that can bring healing and deliverance to God’s people.
May we all strive to be true Sons of Asaph, offering worship that honors God with clean hands and a pure heart.
Please share this message with others.
Understanding the Drink Offering: Its Meaning and Fulfillment
1. What Was the Drink Offering in the Old Testament?
In the Old Testament sacrificial system, the drink offering was a unique part of Israel’s worship. It involved pouring out wine before the Lord on the altar. This act symbolized complete surrender, thanksgiving, and dedication to God.
Leviticus 23:13
“And the grain offering with it shall be two tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, a food offering to the Lord with a pleasing aroma, and the drink offering with it shall be of wine, a fourth of a hin.”
This was not an offering for consumption — it was poured out, signifying that something valuable was being given fully to God. The drink offering accompanied other offerings like the burnt and grain offerings.
Additional references include:
- Exodus 29:40,
- Leviticus 23:18,
- Numbers 15:5–10,
- Numbers 28:7.
The act of pouring out wine, a symbol of joy and abundance in Jewish culture (Psalm 104:15), represented the total outpouring of oneself in worship. It was a visual expression of love and gratitude toward God.
2. Why Was Wine Used?
God specifically commanded that wine, not water or any other drink, be used. This was purposeful. Wine in Scripture often symbolizes:
- Joy (Judges 9:13),
- Covenant fellowship (Isaiah 25:6),
- Blood and sacrifice (symbolically in the New Testament).
Wine carries weight in redemptive symbolism, especially in the context of covenants and sacrificial worship.
Wine foreshadows the blood of Christ, which would later be poured out for the new covenant. Even in the Old Covenant, God was pointing forward to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
3. Where Did the Practice Begin?
Although formalized in the Mosaic Law, the concept of the drink offering predates the Law. We see it first practiced by Jacob after God appeared to him at Bethel.
Genesis 35:14–15
“Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he had spoken with him, a pillar of stone. He poured out a drink offering on it and poured oil on it. So Jacob called the name of the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.”
This moment was a personal act of worship. Jacob was acknowledging God’s covenant promises and dedicating the place to Him. It mirrors the tithe Abraham gave to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20), long before the law was given.
Just as the tithe began as an act of faith and devotion (not law), so did the drink offering. It was an expression of worship and surrender to God — a principle that continues under grace.
4. What Does the Drink Offering Represent in the New Testament?
The drink offering finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
At the Last Supper, Jesus used wine to represent His blood, which would be poured out on the cross.
Luke 22:20
“And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.’”
The language “poured out” echoes the Old Testament drink offerings. Jesus’ blood became the final, perfect offering, fulfilling what the drink offering had symbolized for centuries.
Philippians 2:17
“Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.”
2 Timothy 4:6
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.”
Both Paul and Jesus connected the drink offering with total sacrifice and dedication — not just in ritual, but in life and death.
In Christ, the drink offering was no longer symbolic. His actual blood was poured out on the altar of the cross. That offering is the foundation of the New Covenant, and it’s remembered every time believers take Communion.
5. Application for Believers Today
- The drink offering teaches us to live lives of complete surrender to God.
- It reminds us that true worship involves sacrifice — not just of things, but of ourselves (Romans 12:1).
- Communion is a continual reminder of Christ’s blood poured out, fulfilling the ancient symbols with eternal reality.
Romans 12:1
“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.”
A Shadow Fulfilled in Christ
The drink offering, first seen in Genesis and later codified in the Law, was always meant to point forward. In Christ, the shadow became reality. His blood, symbolized by wine, was poured out once and for all for our salvation (Hebrews 9:12).
So when we see wine in the Old Testament sacrifices, and again in the cup of the New Covenant, we are reminded of a God who fulfilled every symbol in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
May the Lord bless you as you walk in the light of His finished work.
The Lord is coming!
Why Will There Be a 1000-Year Reign of Christ?
The Bible teaches that after the rapture—when believers are taken to heaven to attend the Marriage Supper of the Lamb for seven years—they will return with Jesus Christ to reign with Him on earth for 1,000 years. This period is often referred to as the Millennial Kingdom.
But why is this reign necessary? Why doesn’t Christ simply bring everything to completion in heaven?
Let’s explore two major theological reasons for this 1,000-year reign, supported by Scripture and rooted in biblical prophecy.
1. To Grant Sabbath Rest and Reward to the Saints
One key reason for the Millennial Kingdom is to fulfill God’s promise of rest to His people. This is the “Sabbath rest” mentioned in Hebrews 4—a spiritual and literal rest after the struggles and sufferings of life on earth.
Hebrews 4:9–11
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.
For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His.
Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience.”
In this context, the Millennial Kingdom serves as the fulfillment of God’s covenantal promises of rest and restoration. Believers who have suffered, been mocked, or denied worldly pleasures for the sake of righteousness will reign with Christ in glory.
Jesus assured His disciples of this in the Gospels:
Matthew 19:28
“Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
This “regeneration” refers to a future, renewed world. During this time, the earth will be restored beyond Edenic conditions (cf. Isaiah 11:6–9), and peace will reign because Satan will be bound:
Revelation 20:1–3
“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand… and he bound him [Satan] for a thousand years.”
Believers will have glorified bodies—incorruptible and immortal—as promised in:
1 Corinthians 15:52–53
“…for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”
Thus, the Millennial Kingdom is God’s way of vindicating the faithful, restoring what was lost (cf. Joel 2:25), and giving them the kingdom they hoped for.
2. To Subdue All Enemies, Including Death
The second purpose of the Millennial Reign is to fulfill the prophetic mission of Christ to destroy all rebellion and place every enemy under His feet.
1 Corinthians 15:24–26
“Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.
For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet.
The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.”
Even during the Millennium, natural human beings (those born during the reign) will still die (Isaiah 65:20), though believers who returned with Christ will not, as they will have glorified, eternal bodies.
This reign is a transitional phase: a bridge between the current age and eternity. During this time, Christ will deal decisively with all evil powers, and at the end of the 1,000 years, death itself will be permanently defeated.
What Happens After the Millennium?
After the 1,000-year reign, Scripture tells us that there will be a final rebellion, a last judgment, and then the ultimate renewal of all things:
Revelation 20:7–10 describes the release of Satan and his final defeat.
Revelation 21:1–4 announces the coming of a new heaven and a new earth, and the descent of the New Jerusalem:
“Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth… And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them… And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.'”
This eternal state is what theologians call the consummation of all things—God dwelling permanently with humanity.
The Danger of Missing It All
If you are not in Christ, you risk missing:
- The rapture and the Marriage Supper of the Lamb
- The 1,000-year reign of Christ
- The eternal joy of the new heaven and new earth
Jesus asked:
Mark 8:36
“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”
We believe we are living in the generation that may witness the return of Christ. While we don’t know the day or hour (Matthew 24:36), the signs strongly suggest the time is near.
What Should You Do?
It’s time to lift your eyes toward eternity. The temporary pleasures of this world are passing away (1 John 2:17), but Christ has prepared a place for those who love Him (John 14:2–3).
Repent sincerely of your sins. Turn away from them completely. Believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. He will forgive, cleanse, and prepare you for His kingdom.
2 Peter 3:13
“Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”
May the Lord bless you as you prepare for His coming reign.
What’s the Difference Between Death and Perishing?
To most people, death and perishing might seem like the same thing — just different words for life coming to an end. But from a biblical perspective, there’s a meaningful difference, especially when it comes to human beings.
What is Death?
Death is the separation of life from any living organism. It happens to humans, animals, plants — even microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. Once life departs from them, we say they are dead.
In Scripture, death can be described simply as the end of biological life. For example, in Ecclesiastes 3:19–20 it says:
“Surely the fate of human beings is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other… All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return.”
So, death — as a biological reality — is common to all living things.
What is Perishing?
Perishing is also death, but it is used specifically in relation to humans and carries a heavier spiritual and emotional weight.
You wouldn’t say a dog or a tree has experienced perishing— you’d simply say it died. But for a person, we might say they’ve faced perishing because of what death signifies for human beings: judgment, separation from God, and eternal consequences.
Perishing is not just the end of physical life — it’s the tragic result of sin, and the entry point into eternal judgment if a person dies apart from God.
Why Is There a Difference?
This difference matters because humans were created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27). We have a soul, moral responsibility, and an eternal destiny. That’s why our death (perishing) isn’t the same as that of an animal.
Just as people take notice when an adult cries — because it often signals deep pain — so too, human death should not be seen as ordinary. It is not just a natural process. It is a serious spiritual event.
This is why Scripture says:
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” — Hebrews 9:27
That judgment doesn’t await animals. It awaits us — because of the spiritual weight of human life.
Where Did Perishing Come From?
Perishing entered the human experience because of sin. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, they introduced death into the world — both physically and spiritually.
Romans 5:12— “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
Romans 6:23 — “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Because of sin, every human faces perishing. And it’s not just the body that dies — the soul, too, is at risk of perishing eternally if separated from God.
The Second Death – Eternal Perishing
The Bible warns of a second, more terrifying death — the death of the soul, which is final and eternal. It’s called the second death, where the unredeemed are cast into the lake of fire.
Revelation 21:8 — “But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile… they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
This is what makes perishing more than just physical death. It’s eternal separation from God. It is judgment. It is a loss that goes beyond the grave.
But There’s Good News
Jesus came to conquer perishing and offer eternal life to anyone who believes in Him.
John 5:24 — “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”
In other words, if you believe in Christ, you don’t just die and perish — you pass from perishing to life. That is the power of the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:10— “…Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”
So, What About You?
If you were to die today, are you certain about where your soul would go? Don’t assume you’ll just vanish like an animal. The Bible is clear — those who die in sin face judgment and eternal separation from God.
But the invitation still stands. Jesus can save you from perishing, from both physical death and eternal death. All you need to do is turn to Him in faith and repentance.
John 11:25–26 — “Jesus said… ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’”
Final Thoughts
- Death happens to every living thing.
- Perishing is death with eternal consequence — it’s uniquely human.
- Sin is the cause of Perishing.
- Jesus is the only one who can save us from it.
So don’t wait. Your soul matters. And life — eternal life — is being offered to you today.
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” — Hebrews 3:15
May the Lord bless you and lead you to life.
THE CHILDREN OF THE KINGDOM WILL BE CAST OUT – WHY?
Matthew 8:11–12
“I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
This is one of the most startling statements Jesus made. It forces us to ask:
How can “sons of the kingdom” be cast out? Aren’t they the rightful heirs of the Kingdom?
Does this mean Jesus made a mistake?
Absolutely not. Jesus was warning about a tragic spiritual truth: privilege without obedience leads to judgment.
Understanding the Context: Who Are the “Sons of the Kingdom”?
In first-century Judaism, the phrase “sons of the kingdom” referred to ethnic Israelites, those who assumed they were guaranteed a place in God’s kingdom because of their heritage as descendants of Abraham.
But Jesus turns this assumption upside down: not all who claim connection to the kingdom will enter it.
This principle applies not only to first-century Jews—but to anyone today who assumes religious familiarity equals salvation.
Parable Parallel: The Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:2–10
Jesus tells a parable of a king (symbolizing God) who prepared a wedding feast for his son (symbolizing Christ). Those originally invited (the Jews and, by extension, professing believers) refused to come. They were distracted by personal pursuits—fields, businesses—and some violently rejected the messengers (prophets, apostles, or preachers).
“But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business…” (v.5)
So the king destroyed their city (a prophetic reference to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70) and invited others—outsiders—to fill the banquet hall. These outsiders represent Gentiles and repentant sinners who were not originally part of the covenant but responded to the invitation.
“Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.” (v.9)
The kingdom of God is not inherited by proximity but by obedience.
Implications
1. Spiritual Privilege ≠ Salvation
Many people today are like the “children of the kingdom”—they were raised in church, they own Bibles, they attend services, and they know the language of Christianity. But unless there is genuine faith evidenced by obedience, they are in danger of being cast out.
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21
2. God Honors Response, Not Excuses
Jesus highlighted how people give excuses for not responding to God.
“I’m too busy.” “It’s not the right time.” “My family wouldn’t approve.”
But Scripture is clear: excuses don’t justify disobedience.
“Yet another said, ‘I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.’ Jesus said… ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.’” – Luke 9:61–62
“Whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:38
God’s grace is free, but discipleship is costly. Following Christ requires denying self and embracing obedience.
3. Hearing the Word is Not Enough
It’s not enough to hear good sermons or read the Bible. God’s Word demands a response—a life of obedience and transformation.
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:22
Those who hear but do not act are like people looking into a mirror and forgetting their reflection—they are spiritually deceived.
“The one who looks into the perfect law… and perseveres… he will be blessed in his doing.” – James 1:25
4. The Kingdom Is for the Willing, Not Just the Familiar
Jesus said many will come from “east and west”—that is, people from every nation—who were never considered part of God’s covenant community, but because they believed and obeyed, they will dine with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom.
Meanwhile, those who assumed they had access will be “thrown into outer darkness”—a place of deep regret, symbolizing final separation from God (cf. Matthew 25:30).
What Must We Do?
- Don’t assume that knowing about God is the same as knowing God.
- Don’t delay obedience waiting for a “better time.”
- Don’t trust in heritage, denomination, or tradition—trust in Christ and walk in His ways.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” – John 14:15
True love for Jesus is not expressed in words alone but in active obedience.
Respond Before It’s Too Late
We are living in the final moments before the return of Christ. Let us not be like the invited guests who rejected the call. Let us be like those who responded with humility and readiness, no matter their background.
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” – Hebrews 3:15
Deny yourself. Obey Christ. The rapture is near. Be found ready.
The Lord is coming soon.
When You Are Old, Another Will Lead You — Choose Wisely While You’re Young
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ,
To Him be all glory, honor, and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Let us reflect on a profound statement Jesus made to the Apostle Peter, recorded in John 21:18
“Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished;
but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.”
At first glance, this verse refers to the kind of death Peter would face (see verse 19), but there’s a much deeper spiritual lesson hidden here—one that applies not just to Peter but to every believer, especially the young who still have freedom, strength, and the ability to choose.
1. The Freedom of Youth – A Season of Decision
Jesus contrasts Peter’s youth with his old age. In youth, Peter was able to “gird himself and go where he wished.” This symbolizes freedom of will, strength, and the power to make choices.
In your youth, you can choose:
- What you believe.
- Who you serve.
- What values you follow.
But freedom is temporary. As age comes, your ability to choose will diminish—not just physically, but spiritually.
The Bible affirms this power of choice in youth:
1 John 2:14
“I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one.”
The strength of youth is not just physical—it includes spiritual potential. This is the time to overcome sin, learn the Word, and build a life with God. But that window doesn’t last forever.
2. The Warning: “Another Will Gird You” — Who Will It Be?
Jesus says that when Peter is old, “another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.”
That “another” represents either:
- God — if you surrender your life to Him now.
- Satan — if you ignore God’s call.
There is no neutral ground in the spiritual realm. Jesus said:
Matthew 12:30
“He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.”
If you do not choose God while you still can, eventually Satan will choose for you. This leads to spiritual bondage where you no longer desire or understand God’s truth.
Many elderly people who rejected the gospel in their youth find it almost impossible to receive it later. Not because they’re unloved by God, but because they have already been spiritually “bound” by another master.
Romans 6:16
“Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey… whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?”
3. The Blessing: If You Bind Yourself to Christ Now, He Will Keep You Later
If you choose Christ now, while you have strength, He will lead you when your strength is gone.
Even in weakness, old age, suffering, or death, you’ll be in His hands. He promises eternal life and security to those who are His:
John 10:28
“And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”
Even if you face hardship for your faith, you will not be lost. You are already “bound” to Christ—and that is eternal security.
That’s why Solomon wrote:
Ecclesiastes 12:1
“Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth,
Before the difficult days come,
And the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them.’”
If you don’t remember God now, a time will come when even pleasure in life will disappear. That’s the life of someone spiritually bound by the enemy.
4. Now Is the Time – Cleanse Your Path While You Still Can
Don’t wait. The time to start is today. The psalmist asked:
Psalm 119:9
“How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.”
Start aligning your life with God’s Word now. Reject worldly distractions. People, possessions, and pleasure cannot save you when your strength fails.
Proverbs 14:12
“There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.”
5. Urgency: Jesus Is Coming Soon — The Trumpet Is About to Sound
This is not the time for spiritual complacency. The return of Jesus is imminent. The gospel today is not a soft call—it is an urgent plea to enter the Kingdom of God by force:
Matthew 11:12 (NKJV) –
“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
Every sign of Christ’s return has been fulfilled. If you think there’s still time, think again. The trumpet can sound at any moment.
1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (NKJV) –
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.”
The trumpet is sounding. Don’t ignore it.
Final Encouragement
Dear brother or sister,
The choices you make now will determine who controls your life later. Whether it will be God or the enemy depends on what you do today.
If you bind yourself to Christ now, He will lead you safely into eternity. But if you delay, you may find yourself being led by “another”—to a place you never wanted to go.
Choose Christ now.
May the Lord help us.
Shalom.
Was Paul Saying We Shouldn’t Preach About Baptism? (1 Corinthians 1:17)
Many people quote 1 Corinthians 1:17 where Paul says:
“For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
—1 Corinthians 1:17
From this, some conclude: “Since Paul wasn’t sent to baptize, then maybe I’m also not called to preach about baptism. I’m just called to preach faith in Christ.”
But is that what Paul meant? And does it mean we can ignore preaching about baptism or other core doctrines like repentance, the Holy Spirit, or holy living?
Let’s explore this with Scripture and sound theology.
1. Every Servant of God Is Called to Preach the Whole Word
The calling to preach the gospel includes the full counsel of God’s Word. Paul himself declared:
“Therefore I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.”
—Acts 20:26–27
This means no preacher is permitted to omit, minimize, or skip certain biblical truths because they feel unqualified or uncomfortable.
Though we may have different gifts (Romans 12:6–8), we all preach the same gospel (Galatians 1:6–9). Our styles may differ, but the message must be the same: a full gospel of repentance, baptism, faith, and the life of holiness.
2. What Did Paul Mean in 1 Corinthians 1:17?
Paul was not denying the importance of baptism. He was making a distinction between his primary task and the supporting roles in ministry. His main focus was evangelism and church planting, not performing baptisms personally.
“I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius… I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don’t remember if I baptized anyone else.”
—1 Corinthians 1:14–16
Paul was clearly involved in baptism, but he allowed others to administer it so he could focus on preaching the gospel more widely. He taught about baptism and even ensured people were baptized properly (see Acts 19:1–5), but he didn’t personally perform the act in most cases.
Acts 19:4–5
“Paul said, ‘John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.’ On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Paul didn’t avoid baptism—he simply worked as part of a team and prioritized his apostolic mission.
3. Preaching the Whole Gospel Includes Baptism
Jesus Himself made baptism part of the Great Commission:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
—Matthew 28:19–20
Preaching faith in Christ without calling people to baptism and obedience is preaching an incomplete gospel. The apostles understood this:
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
—Acts 2:38
4. Delegating Roles Doesn’t Eliminate the Message
In Acts 6, the apostles delegated food distribution to deacons so they could focus on the Word:
“It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables… We will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
—Acts 6:2,4
Likewise, Paul delegated baptism when needed. But he still preached about it and made sure new believers were taught everything Christ commanded.
5. Preaching Selectively Is Spiritually Dangerous
God warns us not to add to or subtract from His Word:
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues… And if anyone takes words away…, God will take away that person’s share in the tree of life.”
—Revelation 22:18–19
Avoiding topics like baptism, holiness, or repentance because they’re “too sensitive” is spiritual compromise. Paul warned Timothy:
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”
—2 Timothy 4:2
6. Truth May Hurt—but It Heals
Sometimes the truth offends or causes sorrow—but that sorrow can lead to repentance and salvation:
“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”
—2 Corinthians 7:10
If you know someone was baptized incorrectly, or is living in sin, and you keep quiet to protect their feelings—you are not helping them. You are withholding the truth that could save them.
We Are All Called to Preach the Full Gospel
Every preacher, teacher, and believer is called to share the whole truth of God’s Word—not just what is popular or easy to say.
Baptism is part of the gospel. So are repentance, holiness, faith, obedience, and the Holy Spirit. If God has revealed it in Scripture, then it’s part of our responsibility to teach and preach it.
The Lord is coming!
“But in Times of Trouble, They Say: ‘Stand Up and Save Us!’”
Have you ever met people who only reach out to you when they need something? They don’t check on you, don’t build a relationship, and the only time they contact you is when they’re in trouble. And as soon as you help them, they disappear—until the next crisis.
It doesn’t feel good, does it?
Now imagine how God must feel when people treat Him the same way.
That’s the kind of shallow relationship many people today have with God. They don’t seek Him daily, don’t pray, read the Bible, or live for Him. But when trouble comes—sickness, financial crisis, family problems—they suddenly remember God and cry out for help.
This is not new. God addressed the same issue through the prophet Jeremiah:
“They say to a tree, ‘You are my father,’ and to a stone, ‘You gave me birth.’ For they have turned their back to me, and not their face. But in the time of their trouble they say, ‘Arise and save us!’”
—Jeremiah 2:27
God was pointing out how His people had abandoned Him, replacing Him with idols—yet when disaster struck, they expected Him to rescue them. It’s a picture of hypocrisy: ignoring God in everyday life but calling on Him in emergencies.
Sadly, this describes many believers today. Prayer has become a last resort. Worship is occasional and often transactional. Reading Scripture is rare. People don’t seek God for who He is—but for what He can do.
True Relationship vs. Religious Convenience
God desires relationship, not ritual. He is not a vending machine for miracles. Jesus made this very clear when He said:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’
And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”
—Matthew 7:21–23
This passage isn’t about atheists or unbelievers—it’s about religious people. People who were doing “spiritual” things but lacked a real relationship with Jesus. They used His name, but did not live under His lordship.
God Is Not Obligated to Bless Disobedience
Let’s be honest: seeking God only when you need something is spiritual manipulation, not faith. It’s using God as a backup plan instead of honoring Him as Lord. That mindset doesn’t lead to blessing—it leads to judgment.
In Jeremiah 2:28–29, God responds to this false religiosity:
“But where are your gods that you made for yourself? Let them arise, if they can save you, in your time of trouble! For as many as your cities are your gods, O Judah. Why do you contend with me? You have all transgressed against me, declares the Lord.”
—Jeremiah 2:28–29
He’s saying, “If your false gods could give you comfort, success, healing, or security—then why don’t they help you now?” God doesn’t want us to lean on superstition, anointing oils, or religious items. He wants our hearts.
Salvation Is a Daily Walk
A true believer doesn’t seek God only for deliverance but lives daily in His presence—whether in peace or in pain. God is not just Savior in trouble; He is Lord every day.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”
—Deuteronomy 6:5
This love is not conditional. It’s not based on answered prayers or prosperity. It’s based on knowing Him—and walking with Him through all seasons.
What Should We Do?
We need to return to authentic faith—a faith that honors God whether life is good or hard. Here’s how:
- Seek God daily – not just in emergencies.
- Read His Word (start with even 20 minutes a day).
- Pray sincerely – not just for requests, but to know Him.
- Worship regularly – not out of duty, but love.
- Obey His commands – faith without obedience is dead (James 2:17).
- Desire to be His child, not just His beneficiary.
When we do that, we won’t even need to beg for blessings—because relationship brings access. Jesus said:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
—Matthew 6:33
Closing Prayer
May the Lord open our eyes to see Him not just as a rescuer but as our Father. May He transform our hearts to desire Him daily. And may we be found faithful when Christ returns—ready for His kingdom, not just His miracles.
Shalom.
Was it Really the Lord’s Custom to Keep the Sabbath? (Luke 4:16)
The Bible tells us that Jesus regularly went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day. But does this mean that we are also required to observe the Sabbath in the same way?
Luke 4:16
“He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read.”
At first glance, this may seem like Jesus was observing the Sabbath just as the Jewish people did under the Law of Moses. However, it is important to understand the deeper theological meaning.
Jesus is called the Lord of the Sabbath:
Luke 6:5
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.’”
This reveals that Jesus has authority over the Sabbath—it is not a law that binds Him as it does the rest of humanity. The Sabbath was originally given as a day of rest and worship (Exodus 20:8-11), but Jesus, as Creator and Lord (John 1:3), fulfills its ultimate purpose.
Why, then, was it Jesus’ custom to attend synagogue on the Sabbath?
The Sabbath was the day when most Jews gathered in the synagogue to hear the Scriptures preached (Nehemiah 13:19-22). Other days were workdays. Jesus went where the people were, on the day they assembled. If they had gathered on a different day, He would have gone then. This was a practical decision to reach the people effectively, not a religious requirement.
This is similar to modern evangelistic methods: someone might choose Saturday or Sunday to go door-to-door because more people are at home, not because those days are sacred.
Importantly, Jesus also said:
Mark 2:27
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
This means the Sabbath was designed to serve humanity’s good, not to enslave people to legalistic observance.
The apostles also preached in synagogues on the Sabbath (Acts 13:14, 42-44), not because they were bound to Sabbath observance, but because it was the day people gathered to hear God’s Word.
What about Christians today?
The New Testament clarifies that Christians are no longer under the old ceremonial laws, including Sabbath observance:
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
Instead, Christians enter into a spiritual rest through faith in Jesus Christ:
Hebrews 4:9-10
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.”
True Sabbath rest is about peace with God and freedom from the burden of legalism through Christ.
Jesus is coming.
Should Our Light Shine or Not? Understanding Matthew 5:16 and Matthew 6:1 in Context
The Question:
In Matthew 5:16, Jesus tells us to let our light shine before others. Yet in Matthew 6:1, He warns us not to do our good deeds before people to be seen by them.
At first glance, this might seem like a contradiction. So, are we supposed to do good works publicly or not?
The Context Matters
Let’s read both scriptures carefully, starting with Matthew 5:14–16:
Matthew 5:14–16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Here, Jesus is calling believers to live lives that reflect God’s righteousness and love. The purpose of our “light” is to reveal God’s goodness to the world. It’s not about self-promotion, but about shining with the character of Christ (see Philippians 2:15 – “shine among them like stars in the sky”).
Then we read Matthew 6:1–2, where Jesus says:
Matthew 6:1–2
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”
This is a warning against pride and hypocrisy. The issue is not doing good in public, but doing it with the wrong motive—seeking personal glory rather than God’s.
These verses are not contradictory but complementary. Jesus is addressing two different heart attitudes:
- In Matthew 5, He is encouraging a life of visible, active faith that draws people to glorify God.
- In Matthew 6, He is warning against doing good deeds with the intention of receiving human praise.
According to biblical theology, intent matters as much as action. God sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7), and righteousness without humility is empty (see Isaiah 64:6 – “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” when done in pride).
Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 10:31:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
True Christian living involves actions that point upward to God, not inward to ourselves.
An Example from Scripture: Herod’s Mistake
In Acts 12:20–23, King Herod made a public address that impressed his audience. The people shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man!” Herod accepted their praise instead of giving glory to God.
Acts 12:23
“Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.”
This shows how seriously God takes misplaced glory. Good works or talents that bring glory to self instead of God are not righteousness—they are rebellion masked in good behavior.
Let Your Light Shine—For God’s Glory
There’s no contradiction between Matthew 5:16 and Matthew 6:1 when we understand the key principle:
Visibility is not the issue. Motivation is.
If your goal is to glorify God, then let your light shine boldly! Do good, speak truth, serve others—so that people may see Christ in you.
But if your goal is to glorify yourself, even a good deed becomes a spiritual trap.
We are called to reflect God’s light, not create our own spotlight.
So, ask yourself regularly:
- Is this about making God known, or making myself known?
- Would I still do this if no one saw it but God?
If it’s about God’s glory, go all in. If it’s about your own, repent and refocus.
Colossians 3:17
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
(The Lord is coming!)
