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Did Abram Leave Haran Before or After His Father Terah Died?

The Apparent Conflict

When reading Genesis, a timeline issue may seem to arise regarding Abram’s departure from Haran and the death of his father, Terah.

Genesis 11:26
“When Terah had lived 70 years, he fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran.”

Genesis 11:32
“The days of Terah were 205 years, and Terah died in Haran.”

Genesis 12:4
“So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.”

At face value, if Terah fathered Abram at age 70 and Abram left Haran at age 75, Terah would have died at 145 (70 + 75), not 205. Yet Scripture clearly states Terah lived to 205. This raises the question:
Did Abram leave Haran before or after Terah died?

The New Testament Clarifies It

To resolve this, we turn to Acts 7:2–4, where Stephen recounts the story of Abraham:

Acts 7:2–4
“Brothers and fathers, hear me: The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, and said to him, ‘Go out from your land and from your kindred and go into the land that I will show you.’ Then he went out from the land of the Chaldeans and lived in Haran. And after his father died, God removed him from there into this land in which you are now living.”

Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, confirms that Abram left Haran after the death of Terah, which supports Genesis 11:32’s statement that Terah died at age 205.

Reconciling the Timeline: Who Was Born First?

The misunderstanding comes from assuming Abram was Terah’s firstborn son, born when Terah was 70. However, that’s not necessarily the case.

Genesis 11:26

“When Terah had lived 70 years, he fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran.”

But this is a summary verse, not a birth order statement. The three sons are listed with Abram first not because he was the eldest, but because he is the most significant in redemptive history.

Evidence That Haran Was the Eldest

There are strong contextual clues that suggest Haran was older than Abram:

  1. Lot, Haran’s son, was an adult when he traveled with Abram (Genesis 12:5).
  2. Milcah, Haran’s daughter, married Nahor, Abram’s brother (Genesis 11:29).
    This means Haran had grown children before Abram and Nahor married—suggesting Haran was older.
  3. Terah’s oldest son was likely Haran, born when Terah was 70. If Abram was born significantly later, say when Terah was 130, this would align the timeline correctly.

There is no contradiction. The Bible harmonizes perfectly when understood in its historical and literary context. The confusion arises only if we assume Abram was the eldest child, which Scripture does not state.

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Were 23,000 or 24,000 Israelites Killed by the Plague at Shittim?

Were 23,000 or 24,000 Israelites Killed by the Plague at Shittim?

The Question:
Did 23,000 or 24,000 Israelites die in the plague at Shittim? Numbers 25:9 records 24,000 deaths, but 1 Corinthians 10:8 says 23,000. Does this mean the Bible contradicts itself?

The Answer:
No, the Bible is consistent and trustworthy. Both numbers are accurate when understood in their context.

The Biblical Account

In Numbers 25:1-9

“While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with Moabite women… Then the Lord’s anger burned against them… Those who died in the plague numbered 24,000.”

The passage describes Israel’s sin of idolatry combined with sexual immorality, provoking God’s judgment through a deadly plague. Phinehas’s zealous act stopped the plague (Numbers 25:7-8).

Paul’s Reference

In 1 Corinthians 10:8, Paul says:

“We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died.”

Paul highlights how quickly sin can bring devastating consequences—23,000 died in one day.

Explanation

The difference between 23,000 and 24,000 can be understood as follows:

  • The total death toll was 24,000, as recorded in Numbers.
  • Paul, writing to the Corinthians, emphasizes the severity of the first day’s judgment—23,000 died quickly due to sexual sin.

  • The plague likely lasted more than one day; by the end, 24,000 had died.

This aligns with biblical teaching on sin’s consequences:

  • Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
  • Sexual immorality is especially destructive because it involves the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).

Sexual Sin and the Body of Christ

Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 6:15-20

“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself?… Flee from sexual immorality… your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.”

The body is not just physical but sacred, entrusted to us by God. Sexual sin violates this holiness and has serious spiritual consequences.

Wisdom from Proverbs

Proverbs 6:32 says:

“But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.”

This warns of the self-destructive nature of sexual sin.

How to Overcome Sexual Sin

The Bible’s solution is not just repentance but avoidance and fleeing temptation, as Joseph demonstrated (Genesis 39). Paul commands:

“Flee from sexual immorality.” (1 Corinthians 6:18,)

Summary of Lessons

  • The total deaths from the plague at Shittim were 24,000 (Numbers 25:9).
  • 23,000 died in one day, showing the suddenness of God’s judgment on sin (1 Corinthians 10:8).
  • Sexual immorality carries swift, severe consequences because it defiles the body, the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).
  • Sin separates us from God and destroys us spiritually (Isaiah 59:2, Proverbs 6:32).
  • The best defense is to flee from temptation, honoring God with your body (1 Corinthians 6:18).

Shalom.

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Understanding Ecclesiastes 10:16: A Theological Insight into Immature and Self-Serving Leadership

“Woe to you, O land, when your king is a child, and your princes feast in the morning!”
Ecclesiastes 10:16 (NKJV)

This verse offers a powerful warning about the dangers of unwise leadership. Let’s examine both parts of the verse and unpack what they reveal—not just for political leaders, but also for spiritual leaders today.

1. “Woe to you, O land, when your king is a child”   The Danger of Immature Leadership

In this context, “child” doesn’t only refer to age, but to lack of maturity, wisdom, and discernment. A young or inexperienced ruler may not yet understand the weight of leadership, often acting impulsively or relying on poor counsel.

A biblical example of wisdom in youth is King Solomon, who recognized his inexperience and turned to God for guidance:

“Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in.”
1 Kings 3:7 (NKJV)

Solomon’s humility moved him to ask for wisdom rather than riches or fame:

“Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil.”
1 Kings 3:9 (NKJV)

This request pleased God, who granted him wisdom beyond measure (1 Kings 3:10-12).

By contrast, Solomon’s son Rehoboam failed to follow this example. Instead of listening to the elders, he took advice from his peers, resulting in the division of the kingdom:

“But he rejected the advice which the elders had given him, and consulted the young men who had grown up with him…”
1 Kings 12:8 (NKJV)

This poor decision led to the rebellion of ten tribes and the weakening of Israel’s unity (1 Kings 12:16).

Leadership without wisdom leads to national instability, poor governance, and suffering among the people.

2. “And your princes feast in the morning”  Self-Indulgent Leadership

In biblical times, feasting in the morning was a symbol of indulgence and laziness. Morning was traditionally reserved for work, planning, and service not for luxury or celebration. When leaders prioritize pleasure and personal gain over duty and service, it’s a sign of corruption.

The prophet Isaiah condemned similar behavior in his time:

“But instead, joy and gladness, slaying oxen and killing sheep, eating meat and drinking wine: ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!’”
Isaiah 22:13 (NKJV)

Such attitudes among leaders lead to injustice, oppression, and the decay of societal values. In today’s world, we see this in governments and institutions where leaders enrich themselves while citizens suffer.

Spiritually, this is a warning to Christian leaders as well. If pastors, bishops, or ministers use their positions for self-gain instead of serving God’s people, they are no different from the princes who feast early.

Jesus modeled servant leadership:

“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
Matthew 20:28 (NKJV)

Likewise, church leaders are called to shepherd God’s flock with humility and sincerity:

“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly.”
1 Peter 5:2 (NKJV)

Spiritual Application for Today

This verse is a call to:

  1. Seek wisdom in leadership  Whether you are young in age or new in ministry, pray for God’s wisdom (James 1:5). Learn from experienced, God-fearing leaders.

  2. Avoid selfish ambition  Leadership is not about status or wealth, but about service and sacrifice.

  3. Build God’s kingdom first  Before investing in personal comfort, consider the needs of the Church and the people you lead. As Haggai warned:

“Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?”
Haggai 1:4 (NKJV)

Conclusion

Ecclesiastes 10:16 is more than an observation about politics it’s a spiritual principle. Nations and ministries suffer when leaders are immature and self-centered. But when leaders seek wisdom, serve selflessly, and honor God above all, both the people and the land are blessed.

May we take this as a call to prayer, humility, and integrity in all areas of leadership.

God bless you.

Please share this message with others.

 

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Did Jesus Allow His Disciples to Carry a Staff or Not? (Mark 6:8 vs. Matthew 10:10)

 

The Question:

In Mark 6:8, Jesus appears to allow His disciples to take a staff with them on their mission:

“He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts.” (ESV)

But in Matthew 10:10, Jesus seems to say the opposite:

“… no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food.” (ESV)

So which account is right? Did Jesus permit His disciples to carry a staff or not? Is this a contradiction in the Bible?

The Answer: No, the Bible Does Not Contradict Itself

The seeming difference between these two passages is not a contradiction, but a matter of context, emphasis, and translation. The Bible is divinely inspired and internally consistent. Scripture affirms,

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)

If God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33), then any confusion lies in our interpretation—not in God’s Word.

Understanding the Context and Purpose

In Mark 6:8, Jesus was emphasizing that the disciples were to travel light—depending entirely on God for their provision. The only item they were allowed to take was a walking staff, a practical tool for travelers, especially on rough and rugged terrain. The staff here symbolizes support, not self-sufficiency.

In Matthew 10:10, however, the focus is on complete dependence on God’s provision through others, especially those who would receive the Gospel. Jesus says not to carry even a staff, as if to reinforce that their security and help would come entirely from God’s guidance and people’s hospitality.

“The laborer deserves his food.” (Matthew 10:10)
This means that those who serve the Gospel should trust God to provide for them through the people they minister to (see also Luke 10:7).

Theological Explanation: One Staff or None?

The key to reconciling these passages lies in the original Greek and the purpose of the instruction:

  • In Mark, the word for “staff” (Greek: rhabdon) refers to a single, personal walking stick — not a weapon or supply item.

  • In Matthew, many scholars believe Jesus is forbidding extra provisions, like carrying an additional staff, just as He tells them not to take “two tunics” or extra sandals.

This aligns with His broader teaching in Matthew 6:31–33:

“Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’… But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Jesus was teaching His disciples to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), and to rely on divine provision rather than human preparation.

Not Just About the Staff

Jesus also instructs them not to take:

  • Money — showing they were not to commercialize ministry.

  • Extra clothes or shoes — teaching contentment and simplicity.

  • A travel bag — to avoid burdensome dependence on material things.

“Provide neither gold nor silver nor copper in your money belts, nor bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs…” (Matthew 10:9–10, NKJV)

Again, the concern wasn’t the physical items themselves, but the attitude of self-reliance they might represent. This was a mission of faith, and their dependence had to be on God, not their belongings.

Conclusion: Both Accounts Are True

There is no contradiction between Mark 6:8 and Matthew 10:10. Rather, each Gospel writer highlights a different aspect of Jesus’ instruction:

  • Mark emphasizes what the disciples were permitted to take — one staff only.

  • Matthew emphasizes what they should not accumulate — no extras, not even another staff.

The Bible’s message is consistent: Trust in God completely. Just as Jesus taught them to pray “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11), He was also teaching them to live that prayer — daily dependence on the Father.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1)

 

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Why Is Jesus Called the Lamb of God?

In John 1:29, the Bible says:

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’”

This phrase—“Lamb of God”—is rich with theological meaning. It connects Jesus to the Old Testament sacrificial system, where lambs were offered as atonement for sin. In Exodus 12, during the first Passover, each Israelite family was instructed to sacrifice a spotless lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood. This act spared them from judgment. That lamb became a symbol of salvation through substitution—an innocent life given to save others.

Jesus is the fulfillment of that symbol. He is the true Passover Lamb—sinless and perfect—offered once and for all to take away the sins of the world.

1 Corinthians 5:7b – “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”

Isaiah 53:7 – “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”

These passages emphasize both the gentleness and the submissiveness of Jesus. He did not resist the cross. He willingly offered Himself in silence, just as a lamb does not protest when being sacrificed.

From a character perspective, a lamb is gentle, humble, and entirely dependent on its shepherd. This makes it different from other animals like goats or cattle. A lamb doesn’t try to defend itself—it trusts its shepherd completely.

This is why Jesus is not compared to a mature ram, which might have aggressive tendencies. Instead, He is likened to a young lamb—vulnerable, innocent, and obedient. His nature reflects divine humility and self-sacrificial love.

Jesus affirms this in His own words:

Matthew 11:28–30 –
“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.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Again, in Matthew 21:5, His humility is described during His entry into Jerusalem:

“Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”

The Lamb of God is not only gentle—He is also the Savior. He carried the punishment for our sins, offering reconciliation with God for anyone who believes in Him:

Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Hebrews 9:26b – “But he has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself.”

Have You Responded to the Lamb’s Call?

Jesus, the Lamb of God, is speaking to you gently—inviting you to repent, turn from sin, and receive eternal life. His voice isn’t loud or forceful. It’s a whisper in your heart, filled with love and grace.

If you haven’t yet accepted His invitation, what’s stopping you?

Today can be the day of your salvation. Believe in Jesus Christ. Be baptized in His name. Receive the Holy Spirit. Your sins will be forgiven, your heart renewed, and your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life:

Revelation 21:27 – “Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”

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FEED MY SHEEP, FEED MY LAMBS

 

FEED MY SHEEP, FEED MY LAMBS
A Biblical Mandate for All Servants of God

 

Is shepherding God’s flock the exclusive role of pastors? What about apostles, prophets, evangelists, and teachers? Are they exempt from caring for the flock? According to Scripture, the call to feed and tend the flock extends to all who are called to ministry, regardless of office or title.

Jesus’ conversation with Peter in John 21 profoundly emphasizes this point.

1. Jesus’ Command to Peter: A Universal Ministry Pattern

John 21:15–17 (NKJV)

“So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?’ He said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.’ He said to him, ‘Feed My lambs.’
He said to him again a second time, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?’ He said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.’ He said to him, ‘Tend My sheep.’
He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?’ Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, ‘Do you love Me?’ And he said to Him, ‘Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed My sheep.’”

Peter, an apostle, not a pastor, was directly commanded to care for God’s people. This signifies that the responsibility to feed and tend the flock is not limited to those with the pastoral title—it applies to anyone entrusted with the spiritual oversight of others.

2. The Role of Church Leaders in Feeding the Flock

Paul emphasizes this shared responsibility in his final address to the Ephesian elders:

Acts 20:28 (NKJV)

“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”

Here, Paul speaks to elders (presbyters)—a term used interchangeably with bishops or overseers (episkopoi) in the early church. They were not all “pastors” by title, but they were all required to shepherd and feed the church, recognizing the immense value God placed on His people by purchasing them with Christ’s own blood.

3. Sheep and Lambs: Understanding the Two Groups

Jesus distinctly mentions both “lambs” and “sheep”, indicating two categories within the flock: Lambs represent new believers—young in the faith, needing gentle teaching, encouragement, and nurturing (Hebrews 5:12-14).Sheep are mature believers, who require deeper teaching, correction, direction, and spiritual meat (1 Corinthians 3:1-3).

Attempting to feed both groups the same way leads to imbalance. Paul addressed this in:

Hebrews 5:12-14 (NKJV)

“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles… You have come to need milk and not solid food.”

1 Corinthians 3:1-2 (NKJV)

“And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal… I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it.”

This highlights the need for spiritual discernment in ministry: knowing who needs milk and who needs meat.

4. Feeding the Flock: Not Optional, But a Test of Love

Jesus equates love for Him with caring for His people. Each of Peter’s confessions of love is met with a command: feed, tend, or shepherd. Thus, ministry to people is evidence of love for Christ.

1 John 3:18 (NKJV)

“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”

If we claim to love Christ but neglect the spiritual nourishment of His people, our love is questionable. The work of the ministry is not about title, status, or charisma—but service, accountability, and love.

5. A Warning to Leaders

The prophet Ezekiel gives a sobering warning to shepherds who neglect their duty:

Ezekiel 34:2-4 (NKJV)

“Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?… The weak you have not strengthened, nor have you healed those who were sick… but with force and cruelty you have ruled them.”

Neglecting to feed God’s people leads to spiritual decay, confusion, and vulnerability to deception (Hosea 4:6).

6. Faithful Ministers Follow Christ’s Model

Jesus Himself is called the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), the Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20), and the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). As such, we are under-shepherds, modeling His care, love, patience, and truth in how we minister to others.

1 Peter 5:2-3 (NKJV)

“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers… not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

 

As a servant of God—whether an apostle, prophet, evangelist, teacher, or pastor—you are called to feed and care for the flock entrusted to you. This is not about gifting; it’s about responsibility.

Don’t disqualify yourself by saying, “I’m not a pastor.” If you are entrusted with souls, you are accountable. Like Peter, Christ asks, “Do you love Me?” And if your answer is “Yes, Lord”, then the response remains the same:

Feed My lambs. Tend My sheep. Feed My sheep.

Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus!

Please share this message with other faithful servants of God.

 

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Was the Enoch Who Walked with God the Son of Cain? (Genesis 4:16–17)Answer: Let’s examine Scripture and theology together.

 

Was the Enoch Who Walked with God the Son of Cain? (Genesis 4:16–17)
Answer: Let’s examine Scripture and theology together.

1. Two Different Men Named Enoch

In Genesis 4:16–17, we read:

“So Cain went out from the Lord’s presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden. Cain made love to his wife, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Enoch. Cain was then building a city, and he named it after his son Enoch.” (NIV)

This Enoch was the son of Cain, the firstborn of Adam and Eve who murdered his brother Abel. This lineage is often referred to as the ungodly line, as Cain’s descendants lived lives largely apart from the fear of God. Cain’s line includes Lamech, who introduced polygamy and glorified violence (Genesis 4:19, 23–24). There’s no biblical record of spiritual devotion or righteousness among Cain’s descendants.

In contrast, the Enoch who “walked faithfully with God” is found in

Genesis 5:18–24:

“When Jared had lived 162 years, he became the father of Enoch… Enoch walked faithfully with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters… Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.” (NIV)

This Enoch was a descendant of Seth, the third son of Adam, and is part of what’s often called the godly line. Seth’s descendants began to “call on the name of the Lord” (Genesis 4:26), indicating a return to worship and relationship with God.

2. Theological Significance of Enoch’s Walk with God

Enoch’s relationship with God was so intimate that he did not experience death. He is one of only two people in the Old Testament who were taken to heaven without dying—the other being Elijah (2 Kings 2:11).

Hebrews 11:5 confirms this:

“By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: ‘He could not be found, because God had taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.” (NIV)

This sets Enoch apart as a prophetic figure who lived a life of faith in the midst of a corrupt and fallen world. He serves as a symbol of hope that intimacy with God can overcome the curse of death, pointing forward to eternal life through Christ.

3. Enoch’s Prophecy and the Day of the Lord

Enoch is also recognized as a prophet. In Jude 1:14–15, he prophesied about the coming judgment:

Jude 1 : 14-15

“Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: ‘See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed…’” (NIV)

This prophecy aligns with Revelation 19:11–16, which describes Christ returning with the armies of heaven to judge the nations. Enoch, long before the flood or the giving of the Law, foresaw this climactic moment in redemptive history. His prophetic insight shows that God’s plan for final judgment and the establishment of His kingdom has been consistent from the beginning.

4. Practical Lessons from Enoch’s Life

  • Walking with God: Enoch models consistent, daily communion with God—not just obedience to laws, but a living relationship.

  • Pleasing God by Faith: Hebrews 11:6 tells us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Enoch’s life teaches that true faith results in a life that honors God.

  • Hope Beyond Death: Enoch’s translation into heaven points us toward our ultimate hope of eternal life through Christ, who conquered death (John 11:25–26).

 

So, no—the Enoch who walked with God was not the son of Cain. He was a descendant of Seth and the seventh generation from Adam. His life stands in stark contrast to the Enoch from Cain’s line. Though they shared the same name, their legacies could not be more different—one rooted in rebellion and self-promotion, the other in righteousness and intimacy with God.

May we follow the example of the godly Enoch and walk faithfully with God, especially in a world that mirrors the moral decay of Cain’s descendants. As we await Christ’s return, may our lives also prophesy through our faith, hope, and obedience.

Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus!

 

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TEND YOUR GARDEN (Cultivate it, Care for it)

TEND YOUR GARDEN (Cultivate it, Care for it)

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome—let’s explore a powerful truth from God’s Word, one that speaks to purpose, responsibility, and spiritual fruitfulness.

The Divine Pattern: God the Gardener

At the close of creation, God’s final recorded act was not a grand cosmic display, but something deeply intentional and intimate: He planted a garden.

Genesis 2:8 (NIV):
“Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there He put the man He had formed.”

Picture this: the Creator of the universe, with infinite power, bending down to place each tree, flower, and plant exactly where it belonged. Eden was not a wilderness—it was a sanctuary of divine order, beauty, and abundance. Every part was purposefully arranged. This reflects God’s nature as a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33), beauty (Psalm 27:4), and intentionality (Jeremiah 29:11).

Yet even this perfect garden required care.

Genesis 2:15 (NIV):
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”

God did the planting, but Adam was called to do the tending. The principle is clear: what God gives you, you must steward.

The Spiritual Parallel: Your Life is a Garden

Just as Eden was a physical garden, your spiritual life is a garden too. Once you come to Christ, you are placed in your own Eden—a place of fellowship with God, purpose, and promise. But like Eden, it doesn’t flourish on its own.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) says:
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Salvation is not the end; it’s the beginning of a life of intentional cultivation.

Jesus often used agricultural metaphors to teach spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1–23), He shows how the condition of our hearts affects whether God’s Word takes root and produces fruit. Only the well-tended soil produced a harvest.

John 15:5 (NIV) also underscores this:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.”

Abiding in Christ is not passive—it involves continuous engagement through prayer, obedience, and fellowship.

Tending Your Spiritual Garden

What does it mean to “tend” your garden in Christ?

It means you:

  • Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
  • Read and meditate on God’s Word daily (Psalm 1:2–3)
  • Worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23–24)
  • Fast and seek God’s will (Matthew 6:16–18)
  • Serve others with love (Galatians 5:13)
  • Confess and turn from sin (1 John 1:9)
  • Give generously (2 Corinthians 9:7)
  • Share the Gospel boldly (Romans 1:16)

These are not religious duties—they are the spiritual disciplines that keep your soul healthy and your garden fruitful.

The Danger of Neglect

When Adam disobeyed God, he lost access to Eden. Not because Eden ceased to exist, but because sin disrupted his fellowship with God and his ability to steward the garden.

Isaiah 59:2 (NIV):
“But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.”

This is a sobering reminder: neglecting God’s Word and presence in your life leads to spiritual barrenness. Your garden will not grow by itself. God has done His part—He planted the seed and opened the door. Now it’s your turn.

Faithfulness Opens Doors

In the book of Revelation, Jesus speaks to the church in Philadelphia—not the largest or strongest church, but a faithful one.

Revelation 3:8 (NIV):
“I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept My Word and have not denied My name.”

Faithfulness—not perfection—is what moves the heart of God. When you guard and live out His Word, He opens doors that no one can close.

Friend, have you given your life to Christ? These are the final days. The signs of Christ’s return are all around us—wars, moral decay, false prophets, and global unrest, just as Jesus prophesied in Matthew 24. We are not just living in the last days—we are in the last moments.

Hebrews 9:27 (NIV) reminds us:
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.”

What will you say when you stand before God? Now is the time to repent, be baptized, and receive forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

God has planted something precious in you. You are His garden. Tend it. Nourish it. Protect it. And in doing so, you will bear fruit that lasts—not just in this life, but for eternity.

John 15:8 (NIV):
“This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be My disciples.”

God bless you.

Please share this message with others. Let it bear fruit in their lives too.

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REPENTANCE GOES HAND IN HAND WITH BAPTISM

 

REPENTANCE GOES HAND IN HAND WITH BAPTISM

Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” 

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Welcome—let’s study God’s Word together and discover the deep connection between repentance and baptism, two essential steps in the believer’s journey of salvation.

Understanding the Foundation: Revelation of Christ and His Work

Before anyone can genuinely follow Christ, they must first receive a revelation of who He is. Jesus asked His disciples in

Matthew 16:15-17,

“But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Blessed are you… for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.’”

Without this spiritual revelation, we cannot truly understand the necessity of repentance or the purpose of baptism. Faith in Christ begins with knowing who He is and what He accomplished through His death and resurrection.

Jesus’ Final Command to the Disciples

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus clearly outlined the message His followers were to preach:

Luke 24:46-47 (NKJV):
“Then He said to them, ‘Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.’”

This was not a suggestion—it was a divine mandate. Jesus connected repentance, remission of sins, and His name as a unified message. The Apostles understood this and obeyed it precisely.

The Apostolic Response: Repentance + Baptism

On the Day of Pentecost, after Peter preached the Gospel—the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus—the people were convicted in their hearts and asked:

Acts 2:37-38 (NKJV):
“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘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.’”

Peter didn’t separate baptism from repentance. He showed that baptism is part of the process of receiving forgiveness—just as Jesus had said.

Why Baptism Matters Theologically

Baptism is not merely symbolic. According to the New Testament, it is a spiritual act with profound significance:

It is a burial and resurrection with Christ


Romans 6:3-4 (NKJV):
“Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead… even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

 

It washes away sin.

 

Acts 22:16 (NKJV):
“And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

It clothes the believer with Christ.


Galatians 3:27 (NKJV):
“For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”

The early Church never treated baptism as optional. It was always part of responding to the Gospel. That’s why every person who believed was baptized immediately (Acts 8:12, Acts 10:48, Acts 16:33).

What About Infant Baptism?

Nowhere in Scripture do we see infants being baptized. Baptism is consistently shown as a response to faith and repentance, which requires personal awareness of sin and a decision to turn to Christ.

Mark 16:16 (NKJV):
“He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”

An infant cannot believe, repent, or understand the Gospel. Therefore, baptizing a baby is not consistent with the New Testament model. Proper baptism should come after hearing the Gospel, believing in Jesus, repenting of sin, and confessing faith in Him.

Have You Been Baptized in the Name of Jesus?

The New Testament consistently records people being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, not merely using a Trinitarian formula. While Jesus instructed His disciples to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19), the name representing all three is Jesus—because “in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).

Thus, to baptize in Jesus’ name is to fully obey Matthew 28:19 as the Apostles did.

 

So let me ask you:
Have you repented? Have you been baptized by full immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins?

If you were baptized as a child or in a way that didn’t follow the biblical pattern, it is crucial to seek true, scriptural baptism. The Bible is clear—repentance and baptism go together for full remission of sins and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

If you haven’t yet taken this step, we encourage you to do so. And if you need help finding a church near you that teaches and practices biblical baptism, feel free to contact us using the information below.

May the Lord bless you and guide you.

 

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What Does Colossians 3:5 Mean?

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