Title June 2023

SPIRITUAL COURAGE DOES NOT DEPEND ON EXPERIENCE

Grace and peace to you in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I warmly welcome you to reflect on the life-giving Word of God today.

Let us consider the nature of spiritual courage—a kind of bravery that does not depend on human experience, training, or status. Too often, we assume that only the experienced or the learned can be used mightily by God. But Scripture shows us a different reality.

A Nation in Crisis

In 2 Kings 6, the people of Israel faced an unimaginable crisis. The city of Samaria was under siege by the Aramean army (also known as the Syrians), and the siege caused a severe famine. The situation became so dire that people resorted to eating unclean things—even resorting to cannibalism (2 Kings 6:28–29). Dove dung was sold at a premium as food. The most trained warriors, overwhelmed by fear and hopelessness, stayed hidden within the city walls, unwilling to act.

Yet at this lowest point, God spoke through His prophet Elisha, declaring a sudden and supernatural breakthrough:

“Hear the word of the Lord. This is what the Lord says: About this time tomorrow, a seah of the finest flour will sell for a shekel and two seahs of barley for a shekel at the gate of Samaria.”
—2 Kings 7:1 (NIV)

This prophecy was shocking. The king’s officer scoffed, saying, “Even if the Lord opened the floodgates of the heavens, could this happen?” (v. 2). His doubt reflected a common human error: judging divine possibilities by human limitations. But Elisha replied with sobering certainty: “You will see it with your own eyes, but you will not eat any of it.”

The Leprous Outsiders

Enter the most unlikely heroes: four lepers—outcasts, weak, rejected by society, and positioned outside the city gate. According to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 13), lepers were to be quarantined to prevent defiling the camp. These men were sick, starving, and alone. Yet in their desperation, they made a decision that would change the fate of a nation.

“Why stay here until we die? If we go into the city, the famine is there, and we will die. If we stay here, we will die. So let’s go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.”
—2 Kings 7:3–4 (NIV)

This was not only a practical decision—it was a step of faith. With no strength, weapons, or social value, they moved forward. And heaven moved with them.

God’s Power Behind the Scenes

As the lepers approached the Aramean camp at dawn, they found it deserted. Unknown to them, the Lord had caused the enemy to hear a supernatural sound:

“For the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots and horses and a great army, so that they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired the Hittite and Egyptian kings to attack us!’ So they got up and fled in the dusk and abandoned their tents and their horses and donkeys. They left the camp as it was and ran for their lives.”
—2 Kings 7:6–7 (NIV)

The miracle was not in the strength of the lepers, but in the power of God who fought Israel’s battle. These four lepers—despised and broken—were used by God as vessels of deliverance. They gathered food, silver, and gold, and eventually reported the good news to the city (vv. 8–10). Because of their obedience, the prophecy was fulfilled exactly as God had said.

What Can We Learn?

  1. God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). He often uses the unlikely, the unqualified, and the broken to accomplish His divine purposes.

  2. Spiritual courage is not rooted in personal ability but in trusting God. The lepers had no credentials—only the willingness to move forward in faith.

  3. Fear paralyzes, but faith acts. While trained soldiers remained inactive, these outcasts stepped out. Faith in action brings breakthrough.

  4. Don’t wait to feel “ready” before you serve God. Whether you got saved today or decades ago, the Holy Spirit empowers you. Just as God used David—a shepherd boy with no military experience—to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17), He can use you, too.

  5. The Gospel must be shared. After experiencing God’s provision, the lepers said, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves” (2 Kings 7:9). Likewise, we must share the good news of salvation with a world in crisis.

Final Encouragement

You may feel unqualified, inexperienced, or too broken to serve. But remember: in the spiritual realm, God sees your faith, not your résumé. Your step of faith can shake the enemy’s camp. You may look like just one person—but in God’s eyes, you may be the answer to someone’s deliverance.

So rise up. Use the gifts God has given you. Speak the truth. Share the gospel. Serve boldly. Don’t underestimate what God can do through you. When you move in faith, heaven moves with you—and the enemy flees.

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty.
—Zechariah 4:6 (NIV)

God bless you.

Shalom.

 

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NO ONE WAS ALLOWED TO CARRY ANY VESSEL THROUGH THE TEMPLE

Welcome to today’s Bible study.

Today, we’re going to explore a practice that was taking place in the Temple of God—one that was displeasing to the Lord and that He decisively rebuked.

Let’s read:

Mark 11:15–16 (ESV)
“And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons.
And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple.”

This passage is well-known as the account where Jesus drove out those who were buying and selling in the Temple. But often overlooked is verse 16—Jesus also prohibited anyone from carrying any kind of object or vessel through the Temple courts.

What does this mean?

The “vessels” mentioned here were not sacred items belonging to the Temple. People were not stealing or moving Temple equipment. Rather, they were using the Temple grounds as a shortcut, carrying baskets, containers, tools—ordinary items used in daily life or trade.

Historically, the Temple in Jerusalem was constructed between two strategic areas:

  • On one side was Bethesda, a major sheep market.

  • On the other side was the Upper City, where many people lived and worked.

To save time, people began using the Temple courtyards as a pass-through route, going from the Upper City to the markets in Bethesda. In doing so, they treated the holy space like a public street. They carried merchandise, food, furniture, and even gambling tables through the Temple—completely disregarding its sanctity.

Over time, the Temple became polluted with all kinds of traffic:

  • Merchants looking for a faster path to market.

  • Thieves blending in with the crowds.

  • Gossipers and idlers using the Temple as a hangout.

  • People with impure motives walking through on their way to schemes.

This kind of irreverent activity deeply offended the Lord. Jesus didn’t just rebuke the merchants; He also shut down the flow of people misusing the Temple space. He stood guard at the entrances and stopped anyone from carrying vessels through the Temple.

In the same way, today we often see churches treated without reverence:

  • People walk in and out aimlessly, without focus or intention to worship.

  • Vendors sometimes set up near the sanctuary, selling snacks, shoes, or other products.

  • Children turn the worship space into a playground.

  • Some enter the church not to meet God, but to conduct business, make social connections, or promote personal agendas.

The House of God must be treated as holy ground.

Malachi 1:6 (ESV) says,
“‘A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear?’ says the Lord of hosts to you…”

Just as we protect and honor our own homes—ensuring guests behave respectfully—how much more should we treat the Lord’s house with reverence?

But the Temple of God is not just a building. Scripture also tells us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit:

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (ESV)
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

This means that our bodies are not to be used for anything unholy. They are not vessels for sin, impurity, or casual indulgence. Just as Jesus cleansed the physical Temple, He desires to cleanse our inner temples—our hearts, minds, and bodies—from all that is profane.

1 Corinthians 6:15–18 (ESV) adds:
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never!
Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh.’
But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”

So just as Jesus would not allow the Temple to be treated as a mere passageway or place for unclean activity, we must not allow our bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit, to become pathways for sin. We must honor God both in His house and in ourselves.

Let us be vigilant in maintaining the sanctity of the physical places of worship—and even more, the holiness of our own lives.

Respect the house of God. Respect your body, the temple of the Spirit.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Amen.

 

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What Does Proverbs 27:6 Mean? (“Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy”)

Question:
What is the meaning of Proverbs 27:6: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy”?

Answer:
The “friend” mentioned here is a true friend—someone who genuinely desires your well-being. When a friend wounds you with honest words, even if painful, it is far better than being flattered by people who are secretly your enemies.

The truth that hurts is actually a manifestation of genuine love, rooted in God’s love. Jesus Himself consistently spoke truth to all people, especially the Pharisees, exposing their hypocrisy (see Matthew 23). While many admired Him superficially in the marketplaces, deep down they rejected and hated Him because of His uncompromising truth.

Similarly, the Apostle Paul reproved the church in Galatia for their readiness to accept only comforting teachings while rejecting the true gospel (Galatians 4:16, ESV):


“Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?”


Paul’s sharp correction was necessary for their spiritual growth, even though it was painful for them.

On the other hand, Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus with a kiss, pretending to be a friend while leading Him to death (John 18:3-5). This illustrates how the kisses or flattering words of an enemy are deceptive and dangerous.

Theological Reflection:
The wounds from a friend represent loving correction—a vital part of Christian community and spiritual growth. Hebrews 12:6 (ESV) says,


“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”


This discipline is an expression of God’s perfect love, which often works through His people to bring repentance and restoration.

In contrast, flattery from an enemy is akin to spiritual deception. Proverbs 29:5 warns,
“A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.”
Flattering words without truth can lead one into sin and destruction.

Therefore, it is better to receive the painful but honest counsel of a true friend, grounded in love and truth, than to be deceived by smooth words that conceal harmful intentions.

Summary:
When a brother or sister in Christ lovingly rebukes or corrects you—even if it stings—that is a sign of true friendship and godly love. It builds character, promotes holiness, and leads to life (see Proverbs 27:17; Ephesians 4:15). However, receiving constant praise and flattering words from those who do not have your best interest at heart is dangerous and can lead to spiritual ruin.

May the Lord bless you with wisdom to discern true friends and embrace godly correction.

Shalom.

 

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Did Solomon Go to Heaven?

Answer: Yes, he did.

Solomon’s major failure was being influenced by his foreign wives to build altars for other gods (1 Kings 11:3, 13, NIV). However, the Scriptures do not indicate that this sin was continuous to the point of completely abandoning the Lord, nor that Solomon committed an unforgivable sin. It is clear that Solomon repented.

When we read the book of Ecclesiastes—written in his later years—we see a man reflecting honestly on his life. He acknowledges many things he once thought were worthwhile, only to realize in the end they were meaningless, “like chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14, ESV). This demonstrates Solomon’s spiritual growth and understanding that true fulfillment is found only in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Moreover, Solomon is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:6-7), showing that he was not among the lost. Therefore, we cannot say Solomon went to hell, even though the Bible does not explicitly say where he repented.

The key lesson we learn from Solomon’s mistake is the importance of obedience. Scripture declares,

“To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22, NIV)

If Solomon had obeyed God’s command not to marry foreign women who would turn his heart away (Deuteronomy 7:3-4), he would have avoided this downfall.

Solomon was initially very wise, but in his old age, he was deceived by the enemy. Some sins are prepared by Satan over time, with early compromises paving the way for later downfall.

Therefore, obey every command of God—even the small or seemingly easy ones. God sees the end from the beginning, but we see only the present moment. Stand firmly on God’s Word, not on your own opinions or feelings. That is how you overcome the devil.

If wise men like Solomon were trapped, how much more reason for us not to neglect the conviction of the Holy Spirit urging us to repent and turn from sin.

May the Lord help us to obey and fear Him all our days.

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What Does the Bible Mean When It Says, “He Has Also Set Eternity in the Human Heart”?(Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Question:
What does the Bible mean when it says, “He has also set eternity in the human heart”? (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Answer:


Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV) says,
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

This verse reveals a profound truth about human nature and our relationship with God. Unlike animals or other living creatures, humans are uniquely created with an innate sense of longing and awareness that transcends the physical and temporal world. While animals live by instinct and limited understanding, humans possess an insatiable curiosity and desire to know more, to understand deeper, and to seek purpose beyond what is immediately visible.

The phrase “He has set eternity in the human heart” means that God has placed within us a timeless longing—a spiritual hunger that points beyond this life to something eternal. This is not merely a thirst for knowledge but a divine imprint that invites us to search for God Himself, who is eternal and infinite. It is this eternal longing that drives human progress, discovery, and the quest for meaning.

However, despite this deep yearning, humans remain limited in their ability to fully comprehend God’s works or the fullness of His plan. Solomon acknowledges this truth when he says,


“I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.” (Ecclesiastes 1:14-15, NIV)


and also,


“No one can discover the work that God does from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11, NIV).

The infinite nature of God and His works mean that our understanding will always be partial. We may uncover many truths about the world or even about God’s creation, but we will never exhaust His wisdom or fully comprehend His eternal purpose. The human heart’s eternal longing serves as a reminder that our ultimate satisfaction is found not in earthly knowledge or achievements, but in God’s love and presence.

Theologically, this longing for eternity echoes the biblical teaching that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), designed for relationship with the Creator and eternal life through Jesus Christ (John 17:3). The “eternity in the heart” is an indication of our spiritual nature and destiny—it points to the reality of eternal life and the hope of resurrection.

Therefore, this verse calls believers to live in joyful trust and continual pursuit of God’s glory rather than becoming consumed by the temporary or merely intellectual pursuits. It challenges us to channel our endless curiosity towards worship, obedience, and fellowship with God, who alone fills the void in our hearts.

Reflection:
Have you acknowledged this eternal longing within you? Have you recognized that the search for meaning and purpose is ultimately a search for God? The Bible urges us to respond to this longing by turning to Jesus Christ, whose return is near (Revelation 22:12). Will you prepare your heart to meet Him?

Shalom.

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What does the Bible mean when it says “Cain went out from the presence of the Lord”? What is the significance of his departure?

ANSWER:
After Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy—because God accepted Abel’s offering but rejected his own—God confronted Cain and pronounced a curse on him. However, after this divine judgment, the Bible says Cain “went out from the presence of the Lord.” What does this expression mean?

Let’s look at the Scripture:

Genesis 4:9-16 (ESV)
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?”
And the Lord said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground.
And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand.
When you work the ground, it shall no longer yield to you its strength. You shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth.”
Cain said to the Lord, “My punishment is greater than I can bear.
Behold, you have driven me today away from the ground, and from your face I shall be hidden. I shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.”
Then the Lord said to him, “Not so! If anyone kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord put a mark on Cain, lest any who found him should attack him.
Then Cain went away from the presence of the Lord and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden.

Theological Explanation:

Cain’s departure “from the presence of the Lord” marks a profound spiritual separation. This is not simply a physical relocation or a pause in communication with God, but a definitive severing of fellowship with Him. Cain’s rebellion and murder broke the intimate communion with God that Adam and Eve once enjoyed in Eden.

By leaving “the presence of the Lord,” Cain symbolically and literally cut himself off from God’s protective and sustaining presence. This severance meant no more sacrifice, no more worship, no more seeking God’s favor. Cain chose to live apart from God, embracing a life focused on worldly achievements and self-reliance.

Interestingly, Cain’s descendants excelled in earthly skills—building cities, developing music, metalworking, and commerce (Genesis 4:20-22)—but these advances came alongside moral corruption and rebellion against God. This contrast between technological progress and spiritual decay foreshadows humanity’s ongoing struggle to balance material success with faithfulness to God.

On the other hand, Adam’s other line through Seth remained faithful and continued to “call upon the name of the Lord” (Genesis 4:25-26). This represents the godly lineage that sought to maintain covenant relationship and dependence on God’s grace.

Application and Reflection:

This story presents a timeless choice for all humanity: to live “in the presence of the Lord” or apart from Him. The descendants of Cain symbolize a life driven by human effort and worldly wisdom, but disconnected from God’s blessing. The descendants of Seth represent those who seek God’s mercy and grace, acknowledging their need for Him.

Where do you stand today? Your life’s direction reveals your spiritual position. Are you walking in God’s presence, seeking Him daily, or have you turned away, prioritizing worldly matters over your relationship with God?

We live in the last days; Jesus Christ is coming again (Hebrews 9:28). Now is the time to repent, return to God, and seek His face.
Maranatha—“Come, Lord Jesus.”

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Is Sin Truly Removed?

Blessings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let’s learn from the Bible, the Word of God, which is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).

There is a crucial difference between forgiveness of sin and removal of sin.

When someone wrongs you—perhaps insults or steals from you—and asks for forgiveness, you can forgive them by letting go of the offense in your heart. However, forgiving does not necessarily mean that the person has stopped that sinful behavior. If the root cause of the sin is not removed, they may repeat the offense (Proverbs 26:11). Forgiveness in this case means releasing them personally, but not necessarily changing their nature.

The same applies to our relationship with God. We can receive forgiveness for our sins, but if the root of sin inside us remains, we will continue to struggle and fall into the same sins repeatedly (Romans 7:15-20). The root of sin must be removed, and this is why Jesus came—to deal with sin fully (Hebrews 2:14-15).

Jesus came not only to forgive sins but also to remove sin from our lives. Before Jesus, people asked God for forgiveness and were forgiven (Psalm 32:1-2), but sin was not removed from their nature or memory—it was covered, but not taken away (Isaiah 1:18). Because of this, they kept repeating the same sins. But when Jesus came, He provided a way for sin to be removed from the believer’s heart and life (Hebrews 8:12).

So how do we experience this removal of sin so that sin no longer rules or enslaves us?

First, it begins with repentance—turning to God and admitting we are sinners (Acts 3:19). This means confessing all our sins sincerely before God, both those we are aware of and those we aren’t (1 John 1:9). Genuine repentance leads to God’s forgiveness.

But repentance alone is not enough. The next essential step is to be baptized correctly. Baptism is the outward sign that completes repentance and brings the inner cleansing of sin (Acts 2:38).

Acts 2:37-38 says:

“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ 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.’”

Proper baptism in the name of Jesus Christ leads to forgiveness of sins and receiving the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live a new life free from the power of sin (Romans 6:3-7).

When repentance and baptism are heartfelt, the sinful habits that troubled us—such as sexual immorality—begin to die (Galatians 5:16-17). We gain victory over sin because its root has been removed (Colossians 3:5-10). The sinful nature that once controlled us is replaced by a new nature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

It is important to understand that not every baptism removes sin. Some baptisms are empty rituals that don’t bring real change (Matthew 7:21-23). The correct baptism involves full immersion in water (John 3:23) and is done in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 19:5-6).

Do you want to stop being a slave to sin? Follow the teaching in Acts 2:37-38. God is faithful and will fulfill His promises (2 Timothy 2:13).

Shalom.

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HOW ARE YOU SERVING THE LORD?

A Special Teaching for Women.

Welcome, dear sister in Christ. Let’s take some time together to reflect on an important question:

Has the Lord ever done something great in your life?
Maybe He healed you, delivered you, opened a door for you, or gave you peace and salvation. You rejoiced and gave thanks—but what happened next? Did you simply move on with life, or did you take a step further and begin to serve Him?

Many believers stop at gratitude. But biblical faith produces action (James 2:17). Today, we’ll see how ordinary women—just like you—responded to Jesus not only with words but with their lives.

Women Who Served Jesus

In the Gospels, we see several women who were not apostles, pastors, or public figures—but their role in Jesus’ ministry was powerful.

Matthew 27:55–56

“Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.
Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.”

These women weren’t passive observers. The phrase “to care for His needs” implies active support and service. They traveled with Jesus not just to listen but to help sustain the ministry. They were disciples in deed, even if not in title.

They Gave What They Had

The Gospel of Luke gives more detail:

Luke 8:1–3

“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,
and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;
Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others.
These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”

They didn’t preach, but they financed the Gospel. They used their possessions, time, and influence to support Jesus and His disciples. This is a powerful reminder that giving is also ministry (2 Corinthians 9:6–11). God doesn’t only call us to the pulpit—He calls us to obedience in whatever form that takes.

Why Did They Serve?

These women had personally experienced Jesus’ power—deliverance from demons, healing from disease, and the peace of salvation. In response, they chose not just to believe, but to follow and serve. True gratitude is always expressed through action (Romans 12:1).

Even the Quiet Acts Count

Remember Peter’s mother-in-law?

Matthew 8:14–15

“When Jesus came into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever.
He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him.”

The moment she was healed, she served. She didn’t wait for a title or a ministry invitation. Her response was immediate and practical. That’s a model of what faithful service looks like—simple, sincere, and right where you are.

So, How Are You Serving the Lord?

Are you serving only with your lips, or also with your life? You don’t need a microphone or a platform to be useful to God. If you’re a woman—young or older—ask yourself:

  • Have I used my resources for God’s Kingdom?
  • Do I support ministries or fellow believers in need?
  • Am I using my home, my hands, or my influence for Christ?

You may not be a pastor like Paul, or a preacher like Peter—but you can be a faithful supporter like Mary Magdalene or Joanna. And God sees it. Your name, too, will be remembered in eternity (Hebrews 6:10).

Whatever you do for the Lord—big or small—He sees it all. Let your faith be seen through your service. Give what you can. Pray for others. Open your home. Support the work of the Gospel. Let your whole life become a thank-you to Jesus.

“Therefore, I urge you, 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.”
— Romans 12:1 

May the Lord bless you as you serve Him faithfully.

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When Were Peter and Andrew Called by Jesus?

Question:

In Luke 5:1–7, we read that Jesus called Peter and Andrew while they were fishing by the Sea of Galilee. But in John 1:35–42, it seems they had already met Jesus earlier while following John the Baptist. Does this mean the Bible is contradicting itself?

Answer:
Not at all. What we have here are two distinct events in the lives of Peter and Andrew. The Bible does not contradict itself—rather, it offers complementary perspectives from different writers. Understanding the historical and theological context helps us see how these accounts fit together seamlessly.

Let’s look at the two passages:

1. The First Encounter – John 1:35–42

This event marks the initial meeting between Jesus, Andrew, and Peter.

“The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God!’
When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus…
Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.
The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ).
And he brought him to Jesus…”
(John 1:35–42)

At this point, Andrew and another disciple (likely John, the Gospel writer himself) begin following Jesus out of personal interest and conviction, having heard John the Baptist declare Him as the “Lamb of God.” Andrew’s excitement leads him to bring his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus. This is their first introduction to Christ, but Jesus does not yet call them to full-time discipleship.

2. The Call to Discipleship – Luke 5:1–11

Later, Jesus meets Peter and Andrew again while they are fishing and gives them a specific call to follow Him.

“One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret… He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon…
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’
Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’
When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.”
(Luke 5:1–6)

After this miracle, Jesus tells them:

“‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.’ So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.”
(Luke 5:10b–11)

This moment marks a clear turning point—not just knowing Jesus, but committing to follow Him fully. Peter and Andrew’s decision to leave their nets reflects repentance, faith, and submission to Christ’s lordship. This aligns with Jesus’ pattern of progressive revelation and calling, as seen throughout the Gospels.

Harmonizing the Two Events

The Gospel of John shows us their initial faith and interest, while Luke shows us the moment of radical obedience and calling. These are not contradictory, but complementary.

This two-stage calling fits the biblical pattern:

  • God often prepares hearts before issuing a life-altering call (see Moses in Exodus 2–3, or Paul in Acts 9 and Galatians 1:15–17).
  • Discipleship is both a relationship and a mission. Peter and Andrew first met Jesus personally (John 1), then later surrendered to His purpose (Luke 5).

Far from being a contradiction, these two passages show us the grace of Jesus in meeting people where they are—first with an invitation to know Him, and later with a call to leave everything and follow Him. Just like Peter and Andrew, our walk with Christ often begins with curiosity, grows through relationship, and leads to a deeper commitment as we respond to His call.

Come, Lord Jesus!
(See Revelation 22:20)

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What Does “gentle rain” Mean?

In this context, gentle rain it refers to a soft, refreshing rainfall that gently waters the earth. While it may seem small or insignificant, this type of rain is essential for growth and renewal.

In Job 37:6 it is written:

“For He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth’; likewise to the gentle rain and the heavy rain of His strength.”

This verse reminds us that God is sovereign over creation. He commands even the smallest raindrop and the fiercest storm. The “gentle rain” reflects God’s tender provision—He sends what is needed at the right time and in the right measure.

Rain often symbolizes divine blessing and favor. Just as physical rain nourishes the land, God’s blessings revive and strengthen our spirits.

In Ezekiel 34:26, God promises:

“I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing.”

This is more than a promise of physical provision—it’s a declaration of God’s covenant love. The “showers of blessing” symbolize God’s faithful care for His people. When we walk in obedience and live in relationship with Him, we can trust that He will pour out what we need—spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Just as Israel depended on seasonal rains to bring fruitfulness, believers today depend on the spiritual “rain” of God’s Word, grace, and Spirit to thrive. The gentle rain reminds us that even the smallest move of God in our lives can bring great transformation. We may long for dramatic change, but sometimes God works in quiet, steady ways to grow our faith.

So let us stay close to Him, trusting in His timing and His faithfulness.

The Lord is coming!

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