Title March 2023

Destroyed and Separated from His People

Welcome! Let’s study the Bible together.

In Acts 3:22-23 (NKJV), Moses prophesied about the coming Messiah:

“For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’”

This prophecy points directly to Jesus Christ. The question we face is: When will people who reject Jesus be destroyed and separated from His people?
Today, many ignore or disobey Jesus, but we don’t yet see them destroyed or socially isolated in a final sense.

The passage reveals two things that will happen simultaneously to those who reject Christ:

  1. Destruction (Judgment and eternal punishment)
  2. Separation (from God, His people, and His creation)

When will this take place? The New Testament clarifies this moment:

In 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 (ESV), Paul describes the return of Christ and the judgment of the disobedient:

“When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might.”

This passage teaches us that rejection of the gospel results in eternal separation from God’s presence and His glorious power. Theologically, this is the “second death” or eternal condemnation (Revelation 20:14-15), where God’s justice is executed on those who refuse salvation through Christ.

Moreover, this separation is both relational and cosmic. They will be separated from fellow believers (illustrated in Jesus’ parable of the Sheep and the Goats in Matthew 25:31-46) and from God’s created order, as the wicked are removed from the land:

Proverbs 2:21-22 (NIV) says:

“For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the unfaithful will be torn from it.”

This confirms that the destiny of the wicked is to be cut off, which speaks to both spiritual and physical removal from God’s blessing.

This separation from God is the most severe consequence because God is the source of life and blessing. To be cut off from God is to face eternal destruction  a sobering reality.

Many today reject Jesus and His Gospel, falsely thinking there is another way to heaven. But Jesus clearly said in John 14:6 (NIV):

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

This exclusive claim highlights the central Christian doctrine of salvation through Christ alone.

Practical implications:
The end of the age is approaching, and Jesus calls us to repent and follow Him. The Gospel commands holiness  living in truth and love. This includes avoiding sin like theft, adultery, and disrespecting God’s design (e.g., dressing modestly, honoring one’s body), reflecting God’s holiness.

  • Rejecting Christ leads to eternal destruction and separation from God’s presence and glory.
  • This will be fully realized at Christ’s return and final judgment.
  • Jesus is the only way to salvation.
  • We must respond now by accepting Him and living according to His teachings.

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Why Did God Forbid Taking a Millstone as Collateral?

(Deuteronomy 24:6)

Scripture Reference:
“Do not take a pair of millstones not even the upper one as security for a debt, because that would be taking a person’s livelihood as security.”

Deuteronomy 24:6, NIV

“It is wrong to take a set of millstones, or even just the upper millstone, as security for a loan, for the owner uses it to make a living.” Deuteronomy 24:6, NLT

Historical and Cultural Context

In biblical times, the millstone was a vital household tool used for grinding grain to make flour an essential part of daily life. It was composed of two stones: a lower (stationary) stone and an upper (rotating) one. This tool was not a luxury it was as essential as a cooking pot or a stove is today.

Because it was central to survival, particularly for poor families who ground their own grain for daily meals, God strictly prohibited it from being taken as collateral for a loan.

God’s law in Deuteronomy 24:6 reveals His heart for justice and compassion especially for the poor and vulnerable. Taking a millstone as a pledge wasn’t just seizing a piece of property it was equivalent to taking someone’s very life, because it deprived them of their ability to feed themselves and their family.

This aligns with other laws found in the Torah that protect human dignity, even in economic transactions:

Exodus 22:26-27 (NIV)

“If you take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset, because that cloak is the only covering your ne

ighbor has… When they cry out to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.”

Leviticus 25:35-37 (NIV)

“If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves… do not take int

erest or any profit from them, but fear your God…”

These laws collectively point to a key biblical principle: economics must never override mercy.

Practical and Spiritual Lessons

  1. God Prioritizes Human Life Over Financial Gain
    The law protects the poor by ensuring that their basic tools for survival aren’t confiscated. This shows that God values life more than material repayment.
  2. Lending Should Be Anchored in Compassion
    As Christians, we are encouraged to lend generously without expecting anything in return, especially when helping those in dire need.

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”  Matthew 5:42 (NIV)

  1. Faith That Reflects God’s Justice and Mercy
    Believers are called to mirror God’s character not just in worship, but in daily interactions, including business and finance.

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”  Isaiah 1:17 (NIV)

God’s command not to take a millstone as a pledge isn’t just about ancient lending practices it reveals a divine standard of mercy, justice, and compassion. We are reminded that helping the poor should come from a heart of love, not from a desire for profit. When we reflect this grace, we honor God and make our faith attractive to others.

May the Lord bless you as you walk in His wisdom and love.

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Did Jesus and His Disciples Really Not Wash Their Hands Before Eating?

A Biblical and Theological Perspective

This question often arises from a reading of Matthew 15:2 and Luke 11:38, where it appears Jesus and His disciples are being criticized for eating without washing their hands. But a careful theological and contextual examination shows something deeper than simply hygiene.

1. The Accusation Was About Tradition, Not Hygiene

Matthew 15:1–2 (ESV):
“Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, ‘Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat.'”

The Pharisees weren’t accusing the disciples of unsanitary behavior, but of violating the tradition of the elders a set of oral laws added by religious leaders over time. These were not commands from God (as in the Mosaic Law), but human traditions that developed over centuries.

Similarly, in Luke 11:37–38, the issue is ceremonial:

Luke 11:38 (ESV):
“The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner.”

The Greek word used here for “wash” is baptizō, which often implies a ritual immersion, not just casual hand washing. The Pharisee’s shock wasn’t about hygiene it was about Jesus not following a ritual purification custom.

2. Jesus and the Disciples Practiced Normal Cleanliness

It is reasonable to believe that Jesus and His disciples followed normal hygienic practices. Jesus was not against physical cleanliness in fact, He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:5), a humbling act of service and hygiene.

John 13:10 (ESV):
“Jesus said to him, ‘The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean…'”

This shows Jesus acknowledged the importance of cleanliness, but also pointed to a deeper spiritual meaning behind physical acts.

3. The Real Issue: Elevating Human Tradition Above God’s Word

Jesus confronted the Pharisees not because He was against ritual itself, but because they elevated tradition above the commandment of God.

Mark 7:2–4 (ESV):
“They saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed… and there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.”

Then in Mark 7:6–9, Jesus rebukes them:
“Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me… You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.’”

Thus, Jesus used this moment to teach that true defilement comes from within not from breaking man-made rules.

4. Spiritual Cleanliness Over Ceremonial Acts

Matthew 15:17–19 (ESV):
“Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.”

Jesus emphasized that righteousness is a matter of the heart. Clean hands do not equal a clean heart. The Pharisees focused on outward appearance, but Jesus called for inward transformation (see also Psalm 51:10  “Create in me a clean heart, O God”).

5. What This Means for Believers Today

This teaching challenges us to:

  • Avoid elevating man-made traditions above Scripture.
  • Focus on inward purity rather than outward performance.
  • Understand that obedience to God flows from a transformed heart, not rituals.
  • Still uphold basic cleanliness and hygiene, as a matter of health and respect, even though it’s not tied to righteousness.

Jesus and His disciples did not violate God’s law by not washing their hands ceremonially. Rather, they exposed the emptiness of outward religion without inner transformation. They likely observed normal hygiene, but did not submit to traditions that held no spiritual value. True cleanliness before God comes from the heart a heart purified by faith and grace, not by external rituals.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”  Matthew 5:8 (ESV)

May the Lord guide us to walk in true holiness, from the inside out.

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Why Was Oil Still Used for Healing Even After Jesus Came?

Understanding the Role of Anointing Oil in New Testament Healing Ministry

In Mark 6:12–13 (NIV), we read:

“They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.”

This passage raises an important theological question:
Why did Jesus’ disciples use oil for healing when the Son of God Himself was already on earth with divine power?

1. Jesus Used Various Methods to Heal

Jesus, in His divine wisdom and power, healed in many different ways not bound to a single method. This shows that healing is not about the method but about divine authority and faith.

By word alone:

“He said to the paralyzed man, ‘I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.’”
— Mark 2:10–12

By physical touch:

“Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’”
— Mark 1:41

By action-based obedience:

“As they went, they were cleansed.”
Luke 17:14 (ten lepers)

Using physical elements as symbolic acts:

“He spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.”
John 9:6

None of these were rigid formulas. Jesus healed in ways that stirred faith, met people at their point of need, and glorified God.

2. Anointing Oil: A Symbol, Not a Sacrament

When Jesus sent His disciples out in Mark 6, He empowered them with authority over evil spirits and the sick. Anointing oil was used as a symbolic act of consecration and healing, rooted in Old Testament tradition.

  • Oil in the Old Testament was often used for:
    • Consecration (Exodus 30:30)
    • Sanctification (Leviticus 8:10–12)
    • Symbolizing the Holy Spirit (1 Samuel 16:13)

In the New Testament, oil is not discarded but it’s never seen as the power source itself. The power is always from God through faith, not the substance used.

3. The Early Church Practice (James 5)

Many also refer to James 5:14–15 (NIV) to justify modern use of oil:

“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. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”

This passage emphasizes prayer and repentance first. The oil is used in the name of the Lord under His authority, not apart from it. It is faith and God’s mercy that brings healing.

4. Avoiding the Danger of Ritualism and Idolatry

God sometimes instructed the use of specific items (e.g., Moses’ bronze serpent in Numbers 21:8–9), but later, the people turned it into an idol. Eventually, King Hezekiah destroyed it:

“He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it.”
— 2 Kings 18:4 (NIV)

Similarly, if oil or any other object becomes central instead of Christ, it becomes idolatry. We must never rely on external symbols at the expense of repentance, faith, and obedience.

5. The Name of Jesus: Our Ultimate Authority

Scripture makes it clear: it is the name of Jesus that brings healing and salvation:

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
— Acts 4:12 (NIV)

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons… they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
— Mark 16:17–18 (NIV)

Our faith must rest not in oil, water, or ritual but in Jesus Christ, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Final Word

God may still, on occasion, lead someone to use oil, salt, or water as a symbolic act but this must come through clear spiritual guidance, not as a default practice or commercialized “formula.” When healing practices are disconnected from true repentance and the gospel message, they lose their power and risk becoming religious showmanship.

Let’s return to the true gospel:
Repentance, faith in Jesus, the power of His name, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

May the Lord bless you with discernment and a renewed focus on Christ alone.

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A lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces (Proverbs 30:28)

QUESTION:

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How Does Christ Cleanse the Church with Water Through the Word?(Ephesians 5:26 – NKJV)

1. Christ’s Purpose for the Church

Let’s begin by reading Ephesians 5:25–27 (NKJV):

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,
26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”

This passage shows Christ’s sacrificial love and His ultimate goal for the Church: to sanctify and cleanse her. This cleansing is done through water and the Word  meaning both the external act of baptism and the internal work of the Word of God in the believer’s life.

2. The Symbolism of Water and Blood

This concept is rooted in Christ’s crucifixion. In John 19:34 (NKJV), the Apostle John writes:

“But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.”

This is not just a physical occurrence   it holds deep spiritual symbolism. The blood signifies the atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:22), while the water represents spiritual cleansing and renewal. These two are inseparable in the salvation process.

3. The Role of Baptism in Cleansing

In Acts 2:37–38 (NKJV), after Peter preached the gospel at Pentecost, the listeners were convicted and asked:

“Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
Then Peter said to them,

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Here we see a clear sequence of salvation:

  1. Repentance
  2. Water Baptism in Jesus’ Name
  3. Forgiveness of sins
  4. Receiving the Holy Spirit

The apostolic teaching connected baptism with remission of sins  not as a mere ritual, but as an act of obedience and a means of sanctification (Mark 16:16, Romans 6:3–4).

4. The Unity of the Spirit, Water, and Blood

According to 1 John 5:8 (NKJV):

“And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.”

This verse affirms the theological unity of:

  • The Blood — Christ’s atonement (Hebrews 9:14)
  • The Water — Baptism and cleansing (Titus 3:5)
  • The Spirit — Regeneration and empowerment (Romans 8:9)

No part can be ignored. True spiritual transformation involves all three.

5. The Necessity of Being Born Again

In John 3:3–5 (NKJV), Jesus tells Nicodemus:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
…
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Being born again is not just an emotional experience  it is a spiritual rebirth through:

  • Water (signifying baptism)
  • The Spirit (signifying transformation and regeneration)

This new birth introduces believers into the Kingdom of God (2 Corinthians 5:17).

6. The Proper Mode and Name in Baptism

Biblically, baptism was always conducted by full immersion and in the name of Jesus Christ. Consider:

  • John 3:23 (NKJV) — John baptized “where there was much water,” indicating immersion.
  • Acts 2:38, Acts 8:16, Acts 10:48, Acts 19:5 — All mention baptism in Jesus’ name.

This method reflects early Church practice and theological accuracy.

Conclusion

Cleansing through water and the Word is not symbolic only it is essential for Christian sanctification. Baptism is not optional or replaceable by inner conviction alone. It is part of the process Christ established to purify His Church, preparing her to be holy and blameless before

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Understanding Exodus 15:3 – “The LORD is a man of war”

 

Bible Verse (ESV):
Exodus 15:3 – “The LORD is a man of war; the LORD is his name.”

Question:

Why does this verse refer to God as “a man of war” when Scripture also says that God is not a man? Isn’t this a contradiction?

Answer:

This verse is not suggesting that God is literally a human being. Rather, it’s using anthropomorphic language a common literary tool in Scripture where God is described using human traits or roles to help us understand His actions and character.

The phrase “a man of war” paints a picture of God as a mighty warrior, leading and fighting for His people. This imagery fits the context of Exodus 15, which is the Song of Moses, a song of praise after God defeated the Egyptian army by parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14).

God is not human. The Bible is clear on that:

Numbers 23:19 (ESV)
“God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.”

So why does the Bible call Him a “man of war”? It’s to help us relate to God’s actions in a way we can grasp. In biblical times, a “man of war” was a strong, skilled warrior someone who led battles, defended his people, and overcame enemies. God is being described this way to show His power, authority, and willingness to fight for His people.

Supporting Example: Proverbs 30:26

Another example of this figurative language is found in:

Proverbs 30:26 (ESV)
“The rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs.”

Here, animals (rock badgers or hyraxes) are referred to as “a people”, not because they are human, but because of their wise behavior. They are weak but smart they build their homes in strong, safe places. This illustrates wisdom and strategic thinking.

Similarly, calling God a “man of war” teaches us that He is strategic, powerful, and victorious in spiritual battles.

God as the Divine Warrior

The theme of God as a warrior appears throughout Scripture. He is often called “The LORD of hosts” (YHWH Sabaoth) meaning “The LORD of armies,” referring both to heavenly armies (angels) and His power over earthly battles.

Psalm 24:8 (ESV)
“Who is this King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle!”

This reinforces the idea that God defends His people, fights against evil, and ultimately wins victory over all forces of darkness.

Jesus and the Warrior Imagery

Even in the New Testament, Jesus is portrayed as a warrior:

Revelation 19:11 (ESV)
“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war.”

This shows the continuity of God’s character He is both loving and just. He saves, but He also judges and defeats evil.

Building Life on the Rock a Spiritual Parallel

Just as Proverbs compared the rock badger to wise people, Jesus also used the image of a house built on a rock to describe spiritual wisdom:

Matthew 7:24-25 (ESV)
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

God is our Rock, our Defender, and our Warrior. He gives us the victory when we build our lives on Him.

Conclusion

So, Exodus 15:3 does not mean God is literally a man. It uses figurative language to show that God is like a mighty warrior strong, fearless, and victorious in battle. This helps us understand His nature as one who fights for His people, protects them, and defeats their enemies.

Understanding this helps us worship God more fully, trusting in His power not just to save but to defend, protect, and lead us in every battle physical or spiritual.

May the Lord bless you and give you strength as you grow in the knowledge of God 

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Was Isaac Truly Comforted by His Mother’s Death? (Genesis 24:67)

Question: Did Isaac really find comfort in the death of his mother, as stated in Genesis 24:67?

Answer: Let’s examine the passage:

Genesis 24:67 (ESV): “Then Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.”

At first glance, one might assume this verse suggests Isaac was comforted because of his mother’s death. However, the proper interpretation is that he was comforted after her death not by the death itself, but through the love and companionship he found in Rebekah. The Hebrew phrase translated as “was comforted” (וַיִּנָּחֵם, vayinnaḥem) implies consolation or emotional healing from grief, not approval or joy at a loss.

Sarah’s death, recorded in Genesis 23, marked a significant moment of mourning. She was the only woman in the Bible whose age at death is recorded (Genesis 23:1), underscoring her importance. Isaac, her only son, was about 37 years old at the time, and the grief he felt would have been profound. The fact that Isaac did not marry until three years after Sarah’s death (Genesis 23:1 and 25:20) reflects the depth of that mourning period.

Rebekah’s Role in Isaac’s Healing

When Isaac finally marries Rebekah, she becomes not only a wife but also a source of emotional restoration. Her entrance into his life signals the end of his prolonged sorrow. Rebekah’s character and actions her kindness, hospitality, and obedience (Genesis 24:18-20, 58) demonstrate the qualities of a godly woman who nurtures and uplifts.

Rebekah, like other notable women in Scripture, reflects the biblical ideal of womanhood described in Proverbs 31:10-12 (ESV):
“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her… She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.”

Isaac’s comfort came not from forgetting Sarah but from finding new companionship that honored and extended the legacy of love and nurture he received from his mother.

A Theological Reflection for Today

This account teaches a profound theological truth about God’s design for marriage. Marriage, as instituted by God in Genesis 2:18, is meant to be a source of companionship: “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Rebekah fulfilled this role for Isaac emotionally, spiritually, and relationally.

Modern believers, especially women seeking to honor God in their relationships, can learn much from Rebekah’s example. Before seeking to emulate towering biblical figures like Moses, Elijah, or Daniel whose ministries were mighty but not directly comparable to the domestic and relational callings women should consider learning from biblical heroines: Sarah, Rebekah, Hannah, Deborah, Ruth, Esther, Mary (mother of Jesus), and Tabitha (Acts 9:36).

1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV) reminds women of godly beauty:
“Do not let your adorning be external… but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”

In a world that often distorts the roles of women and men, Rebekah’s story stands as a reminder of the power of a godly woman to bring peace, stability, and healing into a man’s life and ultimately, to reflect Christ’s love in the home.

Isaac wasn’t comforted by his mother’s death but after it through the love, support, and godly character of Rebekah. Her role became pivotal in restoring his joy and grounding their marriage in faith and mutual care.

May the Lord bless you and guide you as you seek His truth.

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Don’t Let Flies Land on Your Soul

In Scripture, demonic forces are often symbolized by flies creatures that are drawn to death, decay, and disorder. This symbolism is more than just a metaphor; it reveals a spiritual truth: just as flies are attracted to unclean and wounded places, so too are demons drawn to spiritual filth and inner wounds.

1. Flies Are Attracted to Filth

In Exodus 8:24 (NIV), we see that after Egypt was plagued by the rotting corpses of frogs, God sent a plague of flies:

“And the Lord did this. Dense swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’s palace and into the houses of his officials; throughout Egypt, the land was ruined by the flies.”

This wasn’t just punishment it revealed a principle: evil is drawn to environments that are spiritually defiled. In the same way, when our lives are filled with unrepentant sin, rebellion, or moral compromise, we create spiritual conditions that invite demonic influence.

This aligns with the name Beelzebul (or Beelzebub), used for Satan, which literally means “Lord of the Flies” (Matthew 12:24). It is no coincidence that Satan is described using the image of a fly-lord the rules over decay, disorder, and darkness.

2. Flies Are Also Drawn to Wounds

Even in a clean environment, flies still swarm around open wounds. Spiritually, this represents the wounds of the heart unforgiveness, bitterness, jealousy, pride, and trauma.

You may be living a holy life attending church, avoiding obvious sin, even serving in ministry. But if you have unresolved emotional or spiritual pain, these “wounds” can become entry points for demonic torment.

Ephesians 4:26–27 (NIV) warns us:

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

A “foothold” is an opportunity or access point. When we carry deep, unhealed wounds especially those we hide or ignore we give the enemy room to operate.

Jesus taught extensively on the need for forgiveness. In Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV), He says:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Unforgiveness can block God’s grace and open the door to spiritual oppression.

3. Guarding the Heart

The Bible emphasizes the importance of inner health:

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV):

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

The heart is the control center of your spiritual life. What’s unresolved there will eventually manifest in your behavior and experiences. Spiritual warfare often begins not with outward attacks, but inward compromises.

4. Healing the Wounded Soul

God is not only the judge of sin but also the healer of the brokenhearted.

Hosea 6:1–2 (NIV):

“Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.”

Jeremiah 30:17 (NIV):

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord.”

God promises restoration, not just from sin but from the pain and damage caused by it. This is the heart of the Gospel: not only forgiveness but also healing.

5. How Do We Overcome These Spiritual “Flies”?

It begins by turning to Jesus, fully and honestly. He invites the weary and burdened to find rest in Him—not just physically, but deep soul-rest.

Matthew 11:28–29 (NIV):

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Following Jesus means more than avoiding sin. It means letting Him transform your heart. As we fix our eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2), we begin to take on His character, and in doing so, we close the spiritual wounds and drive out the “flies.”

Final Word

So if you find yourself struggling spiritually despite living a clean life, ask yourself: Are there wounds in my heart that I haven’t dealt with? Have I allowed bitterness or pain to linger? These are the places where the enemy tries to creep in. But the good news is God heals.

Come to Jesus. Let Him cleanse, heal, and restore your soul. Let your heart be a place where only the Holy Spirit can dwell free from the filth, free from the wounds, and free from the flies.

May the Lord bless and keep 

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What Does It Mean to Be “Offended” in Mark 14:27?

 

Mark 14:27 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.”’”

In this passage, Jesus is quoting Zechariah 13:7, a prophecy about the Messiah’s suffering. The term “made to stumble” (Greek: skandalizō) is sometimes translated as “offended,” “fall away,” or “caused to stumble.” It refers to being shocked, disillusioned, or spiritually shaken to the point of doubt or failure.

Jesus was preparing His disciples for the traumatic events about to unfold His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. These events would deeply disturb their faith and loyalty.

1. Theological Meaning of “Stumbling” or “Being Offended”

Theologically, to be “offended” in the biblical sense is not merely to feel insulted; it’s to encounter a spiritual crisis a moment where circumstances challenge your trust in God. It’s a falling away that comes from fear, disappointment, or confusion.

Matthew 26:31 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.”’”

This shows that even sincere believers can be overwhelmed by events that shake their faith. Yet Jesus wasn’t condemning them—He was revealing their weakness so they would understand their need for His grace.

2. How the Disciples Were Offended

This prophecy was fulfilled within hours. When Roman soldiers came to arrest Jesus, the disciples fled in fear. Peter, emotionally overwhelmed, reacted violently:

John 18:10 (NKJV):
“Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.”

Peter’s reaction was rooted in confusion and frustration. He couldn’t understand why the Messiah would allow Himself to be captured. This teaches us that even zealous believers can be offended when God’s plan doesn’t align with their expectations.

3. Being Offended for Christ’s Sake Today

The reality is: anyone who follows Jesus will experience moments of offense times when your faith is tested, your heart is troubled, or your beliefs are mocked.

John 15:20 (NKJV):
“Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.”

Here are modern examples of how believers can be “offended” because of Christ:

  • Hearing blasphemy or disrespect toward Jesus can deeply grieve your spirit.

  • Seeing false teachings that distort the gospel can cause righteous anger.

  • Experiencing rejection or mockery for standing on biblical truth may tempt you to give up.

  • Being spiritually attacked or discouraged just for choosing to live righteously can lead to inward struggle.

Yet, Jesus taught us not to respond with violence or hatred.

Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV):
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age…”

Our mission isn’t to fight people but to love them and speak truth in grace. We’re called to save souls, not destroy them, even when provoked.

4. The Role of Trials in Our Faith

God allows these moments of offense or stumbling to test and purify our faith. Trials reveal what’s real in us. And when we fail, like Peter did, Jesus is still there to restore us.

Luke 22:31–32 (NKJV):
“And the Lord said, ‘Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.’”

Jesus knew Peter would stumble but also that he would return stronger.

Final Encouragement

If you’ve ever been hurt, shaken, or discouraged in your walk with Christ know that it’s not a sign of failure. It’s part of the journey of faith. What matters is that you don’t stay down. Trust in God’s grace to strengthen you again.

James 1:2–4 (NKJV):
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

Shalom. Keep walking with Christ, even when it’s hard.

 

 

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