Feeling Like Something Is Moving Inside Your Body
There are times when we experience physical sensations, such as the feeling of something moving inside our bodies—like insects crawling on your skin. This can lead to discomfort, fatigue, or body aches. If you experience such sensations, it is essential to first seek medical advice. A doctor can examine you, offer a diagnosis, and recommend treatment. If the condition resolves with medical treatment, then it was likely a physical issue.
However, if treatment does not resolve the problem and the sensations persist, it may not be purely physical but spiritual. The Bible tells us that there are times when demonic influences can manifest in the lives of individuals (Ephesians 6:12). People who experience sensations like things crawling inside them, sharp pricking sensations, or a feeling of something moving in their stomach, back, arms, or legs, might be encountering spiritual oppression.
The Bible warns us in
1 Peter 5:8 (NIV), “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
These sensations could be a form of spiritual attack, manifesting through oppression or even possession.
When these things happen, take note of the circumstances. Do these sensations become stronger when you’re praying, reading the Bible, or engaging in spiritual practices? In
Ephesians 6:10-11 (NIV), Paul encourages us to “put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Spiritual attacks often intensify in moments of spiritual focus, as the enemy seeks to distract or disturb.
Additionally, if you experience other troubling symptoms—such as memory loss, unexplained anger, fear, or a sense of decline in your well-being—these could also point to spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:4). The enemy’s goal is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10), and these symptoms may be signs of that spiritual battle.
The good news is that deliverance is possible through Jesus Christ. In
Luke 10:19 (NIV), Jesus says, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
The Bible also assures us that through Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
How to Find Freedom:
To overcome these struggles, the first step is accepting Jesus Christ into your life.
Romans 10:9 (NIV) states, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Jesus is the one who offers true freedom from spiritual oppression (John 8:36). By accepting Him into your heart, you can experience both spiritual and physical healing.
If you feel called to receive salvation, take a moment to open your heart to Jesus. He promises that those who come to Him will find rest (Matthew 11:28).
Shalom
Understanding Colossians 2:18 — “Let No One Disqualify You”
Bible Text: Colossians 2:18 (NIV)
“Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.”
Context and Explanation
To understand this verse, we need to start with the broader context in Colossians 2:16–23, where Paul addresses the dangers of false teachings creeping into the church at Colossae. These teachings combined Jewish legalism, Greek philosophy, and mystical practices, which threatened the simplicity and sufficiency of the gospel.
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.” (Colossians 2:16–17, NIV)
Paul warns believers not to be enslaved again by Old Testament rituals and man-made regulations that Christ fulfilled. He shifts to a deeper concern: that some would lead others away from Christ through spiritual-sounding but false religious practices.
1. False Humility (Self-Made Religion)
“Do not let anyone… disqualify you… with false humility…” (Colossians 2:18a)
False humility refers to outward displays of piety that seem spiritual but are rooted in pride and human effort rather than submission to God. The Greek word translated “false humility” (ταπεινοφροσύνη tapeinophrosynē) can be positive or negative depending on context. Here, it’s negative—people were pretending to be humble by enforcing rigid practices and asceticism (severe self-discipline), which Paul later calls “self-imposed worship” (v. 23).
“These rules… have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.” (Colossians 2:23, NIV)
Theology Connection:
This false humility is what Paul condemns in Galatians 3:3—trying to achieve spiritual growth through human effort:
“Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?” (NIV)
True humility is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), shaped by grace, not rituals.
2. Worship of Angels
“…and the worship of angels…” (Colossians 2:18b)
Some believers were being taught to venerate or even pray to angels as intermediaries. This likely came from mystical Jewish beliefs (such as early Gnosticism) that claimed access to hidden knowledge through angelic visions.
However, Scripture is clear: angels are servants, not objects of worship.
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14, NIV)
“At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, ‘Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you… Worship God!’” (Revelation 19:10, NIV)
Theology Connection:
Worship belongs to God alone (Deuteronomy 6:13; Matthew 4:10). Elevating any creature—angel, saint, or human—into the place of divine worship is idolatry.
3. Pride in Mystical Experiences and Human Knowledge
“…goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.” (Colossians 2:18c)
Some teachers claimed spiritual authority based on visions, dreams, or secret experiences. They boasted about these revelations to gain influence over others.
But Paul exposes their arrogance. These visions were not from God but were inflated imaginations fueled by the flesh—not the Spirit.
“Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by their actions. They are detestable, disobedient…” (Titus 1:16, NIV)
Theology Connection:
Mysticism that pulls people away from Christ is dangerous deception. Paul emphasizes the centrality and sufficiency of Christ:
“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness.” (Colossians 2:9–10, NIV)
Christ alone is our access to God (1 Timothy 2:5). Not visions, angels, or spiritual performance.
Practical Application: Hold Firm to Christ
Paul’s warning still applies today:
- Don’t let anyone shame you for not keeping religious traditions.
- Don’t be drawn into man-made religion, no matter how spiritual it appears.
- Don’t base your faith on emotions, dreams, or someone else’s visions.
- Don’t exchange the gospel of grace for a gospel of effort or experiences.
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him… and not… hollow and deceptive philosophy…” (Colossians 2:6–8, NIV)
Let no one take your reward—your inheritance in Christ—by distracting you with things that seem holy but are hollow.
Conclusion: Stay Grounded in the Gospel
Your reward is not in legalism, mysticism, or man-made humility.
Your reward is Christ Himself—the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
Stay grounded in Him. Walk in the Spirit. Trust in grace. Worship God alone. Let no one take your crown (Revelation 3:11).
May the Lord bless you and keep you rooted in Christ.
What Does “Firstfruits of Achaia” Mean? (1 Corinthians 16:15)
Understanding the Phrase
1 Corinthians 16:15 (NKJV):
“I urge you, brethren—you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints.”
In this verse, Paul describes Stephan’s and his household as the “first fruits of Achaia.” The term “first fruits” is drawn from Old Testament imagery, where the first portion of a harvest was dedicated to God as a holy offering (Exodus 22:29, Leviticus 23:10). Spiritually, it signifies those who were the first to believe the gospel in a particular region.
Theological Significance
1. Achaia as a Mission Field
Achaia refers to a Roman province in southern Greece that included cities like Corinth and Athens. It was a significant area for Paul’s missionary work:
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Acts 18:12 – Paul faced opposition in Achaia.
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Acts 19:21 – Paul planned to return through Macedonia and Achaia.
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2 Corinthians 1:1 – Paul addressed churches in Achaia.
Thus, calling Stephanas the “firstfruits” means he and his family were the earliest converts in this important mission field. Their conversion marked the beginning of the church in that region.
2. Spiritual Birth and New Creation
The term firstfruits also connects to the theological idea of regeneration—the new birth. Just as Jesus is called the “firstfruits” of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20), Stephanas’ household represents the beginning of a new spiritual harvest in Achaia. Their faith was the seed from which a community of believers would grow.
3. Active Ministry and Service
Paul doesn’t only highlight their early conversion—he praises their devotion to serving the saints. This implies ongoing commitment, not just a one-time decision:
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Hebrews 6:10 (NKJV): “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
Stephanas’ household set an example of active faith—combining belief with sacrificial service.
A Model for the Church
Paul urges the Corinthian believers (and us) to follow their example:
1 Corinthians 16:16–17 (NKJV):
“…that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us. I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied.”
This teaches:
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Honor and submission to those who lead with humility and faithfulness.
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Partnership in ministry is a collective responsibility.
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Generosity and support for gospel workers is a New Testament value (Philippians 4:15–18).
Conclusion
Stephanas and his household were the first spiritual fruits of Paul’s ministry in Achaia—early believers who didn’t just receive the gospel but lived it out by serving others. Their story calls every believer to:
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Be open and obedient to the gospel.
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Grow in spiritual maturity and service.
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Honor and support faithful leaders and co-laborers in the ministry.
May we, too, be “firstfruits” in our communities—living examples of transformed lives that bear witness to the gospel.
May the Lord bless us as we follow such godly examples.
Follow-Up: A Vital Part of Evangelism
Acts 11:25 – “Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul.”
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Today, I want us to reflect on an important but often overlooked aspect of Christian ministry—the ministry of follow-up. As believers and workers in God’s field, our mission doesn’t end at leading someone to salvation. Evangelism is not complete until the person who has come to Christ is nurtured, strengthened, and established in their faith.
1. Evangelism and Follow-Up Go Hand-in-Hand
It is common to see people get saved after hearing the gospel—they respond with faith, receive Jesus Christ, and begin a new life. But what happens next? Some may grow on their own, but most need spiritual support and guidance. Without proper follow-up, new believers can easily drift away or fall back into their old lives. Jesus Himself instructed in Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV):
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Notice He didn’t say just “make converts,” but “make disciples”. Discipleship requires consistent teaching, mentoring, and walking alongside new believers. That is follow-up in action.
2. Barnabas: A Model of Intentional Follow-Up
In Acts 11:25, we read about Barnabas—a man whose name means “son of encouragement.” After Saul’s (Paul’s) dramatic conversion in Acts 9, he faced rejection from the church in Jerusalem because of his past as a persecutor of Christians. Due to threats against his life, he withdrew to Tarsus, seemingly forgotten by many. But not by Barnabas.
Barnabas heard of Paul’s transformation and decided to act. He left Antioch, traveled to Tarsus, and brought Paul back to be part of a vibrant church community where he could grow in ministry. Acts 11:26 (NIV) says:
“And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people.”
This act of follow-up changed everything. From there, Paul’s ministry flourished. God used him mightily to spread the gospel throughout the Roman Empire, writing much of the New Testament.
3. Don’t Underestimate New Believers
Sometimes we dismiss or overlook new converts, especially if they seem inconsistent or spiritually weak. But we must remember: even the great Apostle Paul had a rough beginning. It took someone like Barnabas to see beyond the present and invest in Paul’s future.
You may be witnessing to someone today who doesn’t seem promising, but with proper follow-up and guidance, they might become a mighty instrument for God. As Paul later wrote in Galatians 4:19 (NIV):
“My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you…”
Paul understood the importance of nurturing believers until Christ was fully formed in them.
4. Practical Ways to Follow Up
- Pray regularly for the people you lead to Christ.
- Visit or call them to check on their spiritual well-being.
- Invite them to church and connect them with mature believers.
- Study the Bible with them and answer their questions.
- Help them leave harmful environments if needed, just as Barnabas brought Paul to a better place.
5. Your Labor Is Not in Vain
Follow-up ministry may not be glamorous, but it is powerful. It is through this investment that we make lasting disciples. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV):
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm… Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Final Encouragement
Don’t just preach and walk away. Stay involved. Walk the journey with new believers. Encourage them, guide them, and disciple them. You never know—the person you’re following up on today could be the next Paul.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you as you continue to serve in His harvest field
“Though He Is Dead, He Still Speaks” — Understanding Hebrews 11:4
KEY VERSE (ESV):
“By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks.” – Hebrews 11:4 (ESV)
1. The Nature of Abel’s “Voice” After Death
At first glance, this verse seems mysterious: How can someone who is dead still speak?
Theologically, we must understand that this “speaking” is not literal or audible, but testimonial. Abel’s life, especially his act of faith in offering a pleasing sacrifice to God, continues to “speak” across generations as a permanent testimony of righteousness and obedience.
This echoes the concept of the “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12:1:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…” – Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)
The saints of old do not physically speak or return to us, but their lives of faith bear lasting witness, urging us to live faithfully as they did.
2. Rejecting the Idea of the Dead Speaking Literally
Some cultures or spiritual traditions suggest that the dead can speak to the living—through dreams, visions, or voices from graves. But Scripture is clear: communication with the dead is forbidden and not of God.
“There shall not be found among you anyone who… inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.” – Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (ESV)
If one claims to hear from the dead, it is not the voice of a departed loved one or saint, but likely a deceiving spirit (1 Timothy 4:1). God has appointed His Word and the testimony of the saints to guide us—not ghostly messages.
3. The Witness of Scripture Replaces the Need for the Dead to Speak
In Luke 16:19–31, the rich man in Hades begs Abraham to send Lazarus back to warn his family. Abraham replies:
“They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.” – Luke 16:29 (ESV)
This affirms a central theological truth: God’s revelation through Scripture is sufficient. The dead do not return to speak. Instead, their teachings and lives, recorded in Scripture, are God’s chosen means of communicating truth.
4. Abel’s “Voice” Is His Legacy of Faith
Abel “speaks” to us through the testimony of his faith. His story, though brief, represents the first recorded act of true worship—offering God a sacrifice from the heart. This act pleased God and was accepted, unlike Cain’s.
This makes Abel the first among many who lived by faith, as detailed in Hebrews 11, often called the “Hall of Faith.” His example teaches us that faithful obedience pleases God more than ritual or formality.
5. Christ’s Blood Speaks Better Than Abel’s
Abel’s blood cried out for justice (Genesis 4:10), but the blood of Jesus offers something greater:
“…to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” – Hebrews 12:24 (ESV)
Jesus’ blood speaks of mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. While Abel’s death pointed to the tragedy of sin, Christ’s death brings hope and redemption. Theologically, this highlights the superiority of the New Covenant over all that came before it.
Conclusion: What Does It Mean for Us Today?
When Hebrews says, “though he died, he still speaks”, it teaches us that:
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Lives of faith leave lasting impact
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Testimonies of righteousness endure beyond death
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Scripture, not the dead, is our guide
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Jesus is the ultimate voice of truth and grace
Just like Abel, every believer is called to live a life that continues to “speak” long after we are gone—not by mystical means, but through our legacy of faith, love, and obedience to God.
May your life, like Abel’s, be a testimony that still speaks.
The Lord bless you.
What Did Jacob Mean by Saying, “Then the LORD Will Be My God”?
Genesis 28:21
“..so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the LORD will be my God…”
This statement comes at a pivotal moment in Jacob’s life. After deceiving his brother Esau, Jacob flees for his life to his uncle Laban’s household in Haran. Alone in the wilderness, uncertain about his future, and without any possessions, Jacob has an extraordinary dream where he sees a stairway to heaven and hears God affirm the covenant made with Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 28:12–15).
In response to this divine encounter, Jacob makes a vow. He says that if God will be with him, provide for him, and bring him back safely, then the LORD will be his God (Genesis 28:20–21).
At first glance, it might seem like Jacob is making a conditional deal with God—“If You do this, then I’ll worship You.” But that interpretation doesn’t align with the full biblical picture or with how Jacob lives afterward.
Theological Insight:
Jacob’s vow should not be seen as a lack of faith but as a moment of growing trust and commitment. This is the first personal encounter he has with the God of his fathers. While he may have known about Yahweh from Isaac and Abraham, this is where God becomes personal to him. The language “the LORD will be my God” reflects a covenantal relationship forming on Jacob’s part.
This is consistent with other places in Scripture where God’s people enter into covenant through vows. For example:
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Deuteronomy 10:20 : “Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name.”
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Psalm 50:14–15 : “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call on me in the day of trouble…”
Jacob’s words aren’t about bargaining but about dedication. He acknowledges God’s promises and responds by committing his future to Him. His pledge to give a tenth (Genesis 28:22) further reinforces this, showing his intent to worship God tangibly—much like Abraham did in Genesis 14:20.
Application Today:
Jacob’s vow is similar to what many believers express today: “Lord, if You help me through this, I’ll serve You with my life.”
This isn’t necessarily a condition—it’s a reflection of human weakness and hope. Jacob, like many of us, is learning to trust God more deeply. He isn’t withholding faith—he’s discovering what it means to walk in covenant with God, even when the future is uncertain.
Just as God was faithful to Jacob for the next 20 years, so He is faithful to us. Even when our trust is still growing, He meets us with grace and keeps His promises.
Conclusion:
Jacob’s statement in Genesis 28:21 is not a condition of belief but a declaration of personal commitment. He moves from knowing about God to knowing God personally. It’s a moment of transition—where Yahweh becomes his God, not just the God of his father and grandfather.
Genesis 28:15 —
“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go… I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
This is the heart of Jacob’s vow. He is responding to a God who promises presence, provision, and protection—and he’s saying, “If You walk with me through this, I will walk with You always.”
May the Lord bless you as you walk with Him in faith.
6 CHARACTER TRAITS OF JESUS’ DISCIPLES
Being a Christian isn’t just about attending church or bearing the title—it’s about becoming like Christ, and that process begins with becoming His disciple. The first followers of Jesus showed us what true discipleship looks like. These six traits reflect the heart of a genuine follower of Christ.
1. They Denied Themselves
(Self-denial is central to sanctification)
To follow Christ, the disciples had to make a clear break from living for themselves. Jesus taught that discipleship demands daily self-denial, which is the foundation of spiritual growth. It means placing God’s will above personal comfort, desires, and even ambitions.
📖 Luke 14:27 – “And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”
📖 Luke 9:23 – “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
💡 This mirrors Romans 12:1, where Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices. It’s the path of sanctification, the daily dying to self and living unto Christ (Galatians 2:20).
2. They Were Teachable and Submitted to the Word
(Discipleship involves ongoing formation in truth)
A disciple is a learner under a master, and Jesus’ disciples placed themselves fully under His teaching. Today, we continue in discipleship by submitting to the Holy Spirit and learning through Scripture.
📖 John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
💡 Jesus is the Logos (Word) (John 1:1), and the Holy Spirit continues His teaching ministry. A true disciple commits to biblical formation through sound doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16–17) and discipleship communities (Acts 2:42).
3. They Followed Jesus Actively
(Discipleship is participatory, not passive)
Jesus lived on mission, traveling to preach the gospel, and His disciples followed Him everywhere. Their discipleship included action, not just listening.
📖 Matthew 9:35– “Jesus went through all the towns and villages… proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.”
💡 Discipleship includes both formation (being with Christ) and mission (working with Christ). Like interns in a training field, we are sent to do ministry (Luke 10:1–3). Evangelism is not optional for disciples; it’s part of obedience (Matthew 28:19–20).
4. They Obeyed the Lord Fully
(Obedience is the evidence of love for Christ)
Obedience characterized the disciples’ walk with Jesus. Whether it was partaking in the Lord’s Supper, proclaiming the gospel, or following difficult commands, they obeyed without resistance.
📖 John 14:15– “If you love me, keep my commands.”
📖 Luke 9:45– “But they did not understand what this meant… and they were afraid to ask him about it.”
💡True faith always results in obedience (James 2:17). The disciples’ submission reflected fear of the Lord, which Proverbs 1:7 says is the beginning of wisdom. Spiritual maturity is marked by both trust and surrender.
5. They Believed in Him Wholeheartedly
(Saving faith is relational and revelational)
From the beginning, the disciples placed their trust in Jesus—not just in what He could do, but in who He was. Their belief wasn’t shallow admiration, but deep personal faith.
📖 John 2:11 – “What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs… and his disciples believed in him.”
💡 This aligns with Hebrews 11:6, which says that without faith it’s impossible to please God. Faith in Jesus as the Son of God is the core of salvation (John 20:31), and discipleship flows out of a personal trust in His Lordship.
6. They Persevered Even When It Was Hard
(Discipleship includes endurance through mystery and suffering)
There were times when Jesus’ words confused or offended many, and some walked away. But the Twelve remained. They didn’t fully understand, but they knew only Jesus had the words of eternal life.
📖 John 6:67–68–
“You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve.
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
💡 The Christian walk includes seasons of spiritual confusion, doubt, or hardship, yet endurance is the mark of true disciples (Hebrews 10:36; James 1:12). We must learn to trust even when we don’t fully understand (Proverbs 3:5–6).
📌 FINAL THOUGHT: To Be a Christian Is to Be a Disciple
You can’t separate Christianity from discipleship. In the early church, believers were first called “Christians” because they were clearly recognized as disciples—people who looked, lived, and loved like Jesus.
📖 Acts 11:26 – “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”
💡 Christianity is not just a belief system—it’s a relationship with Christ that transforms us into His likeness (Romans 8:29). That transformation happens through discipleship, which is the lifelong journey of becoming like Jesus.
🙏 PRAYER
Lord, make us true disciples. Help us deny ourselves, learn from You daily, follow You wherever You lead, obey You without hesitation, believe in You with all our hearts, and endure even when we don’t understand. Shape us into the image of Your Son. Amen.
Who Was Epaphroditus in the Bible? A Model of Humble Service and God’s Mercy
Epaphroditus is a lesser-known but deeply inspiring figure in the New Testament. Mentioned in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he serves as a profound example of sacrificial service, loyalty to Christ, and the sustaining mercy of God.
1. Epaphroditus: A Trusted Messenger and Minister
Epaphroditus was a member of the church in Philippi, a community known for its generosity and partnership in Paul’s ministry (Philippians 1:5; 4:15–16). When Paul was imprisoned in Rome (around A.D. 60–62), the Philippians sent Epaphroditus to deliver financial support and minister to Paul’s needs.
“But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.”
— Philippians 2:25, NIV
Paul uses four titles to describe Epaphroditus:
- Brother – A spiritual family member in Christ.
- Co-worker – A partner in gospel ministry (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:9).
- Fellow soldier – Someone who engages in spiritual warfare and hardship alongside Paul (2 Timothy 2:3).
- Messenger (Greek: apostolos) – Not an apostle in the sense of the Twelve, but a “sent one,” representing the Philippian church.
2. A Selfless Example of Christian Love
Traveling from Philippi to Rome (a journey of 700–800 miles) was dangerous, expensive, and exhausting. Yet Epaphroditus willingly undertook this mission, carrying the Philippians’ financial gift.
“I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.”
— Philippians 4:18, NIV
Here, Paul likens their gift to Old Testament sacrificial worship (cf. Leviticus 1:9). This highlights that their generosity was not just material support, but an act of worship.
3. A Severe Illness—But God Had Mercy
While in Rome, Epaphroditus fell gravely ill—“almost to the point of death.” Despite his suffering, he remained focused on serving Paul and was distressed that the Philippians had heard of his illness.
“Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.”
— Philippians 2:27, NIV
Paul doesn’t attribute his recovery to medicine or coincidence, but to God’s mercy. This is a strong theological point: divine healing is always an act of God’s compassion, not human merit.
Though Scripture does not specify the illness, the language implies a prolonged and severe sickness. Epaphroditus’s willingness to risk his health for Christ’s work mirrors Jesus’ words in John 15:13:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
4. A Call to Honor Faithful Servants
Paul urges the Philippians to receive Epaphroditus with joy and to honor him. This shows the early church’s practice of recognizing and affirming humble, faithful service—not only public ministry.
“So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him,
because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.”
— Philippians 2:29–30, NIV
The Greek phrase for “risked his life” (paraboleuomai) implies deliberate, courageous risk—like that of a gambler staking everything. Early church tradition holds that a group called the Parabolani later modeled their ministry of caring for the sick and dying after Epaphroditus.
5. Theological Reflections and Life Application
a. Love That Reflects Christ
Epaphroditus showed Christlike love—putting others before himself (cf. Philippians 2:3–4). His actions reflect the mind of Christ, described earlier in Philippians 2:5–11.
b. God’s Sovereign Mercy
His healing reminds us that, though faithful believers may suffer, God remains merciful and sovereign. Healing is never guaranteed, but God does intervene in His timing and for His purposes.
c. Encouragement for Today’s Servants
Modern servants of God—pastors, missionaries, volunteers—can take encouragement from Epaphroditus’s example. Whether your role is visible or behind the scenes, God sees and values your service (Hebrews 6:10).
Final Encouragement
If you’re going through hardship—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—remember Epaphroditus. His life shows that even in weakness and obscurity, you can powerfully serve Christ. And when hope seems lost, God’s mercy can still prevail.
“All things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27, NIV)
Shalom.
Understanding Luke 17:10 – “We Are Unworthy Servants”
Main Text: Luke 17:10
“So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’”
🔍 1. The Background: A Question About Faith
At the beginning of Luke 17, Jesus was teaching His disciples about forgiveness. After hearing how often they should forgive others, the disciples responded by saying:
Luke 17:5: “The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’”
They felt that living this kind of forgiving life required more faith. In their minds, bigger results required bigger faith.
But Jesus gave them a surprising response:
Luke 17:6: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.”
✨ This shows that faith is not about size but substance. Even a small, living faith is powerful when it trusts fully in God. Faith doesn’t grow by asking for more — it grows through obedience and humble service.
👣 2. Jesus’ Parable of the Servant (Luke 17:7–9)
Jesus immediately followed His teaching on faith with a parable:
Luke 17:7–9:
“Suppose one of you has a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’?
Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’?
Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do?”
This parable points to how servants relate to their masters: They don’t expect to be thanked for simply doing their job. They serve as an obligation — not for praise or personal benefit.
🔑 3. The Main Message – “We Are Unworthy Servants” (v.10)
Luke 17:10:
“So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’”
Jesus is teaching a key principle:
True disciples serve God without entitlement.
📖 Biblical Theology Applied:
A. Grace vs. Works
We don’t serve God to earn favor or blessings. All that we receive from Him — including salvation and faith — is by grace, not merit.
Ephesians 2:8–9:
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Jesus reminds us in Luke 17:10 that even if we obey perfectly, we haven’t earned anything. We’ve only done our duty. This destroys spiritual pride.
B. Servanthood in the Kingdom of God
Jesus calls His followers not to seek position or recognition but to serve with humility, just as He did.
Mark 10:45:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Kingdom greatness is measured not by status, but by sacrificial service.
🧠 Why This Matters Today
Many believers grow weary in serving God — especially when it seems like there’s no reward or recognition. Some stop serving when life doesn’t improve or when blessings seem delayed.
But Jesus is calling us to mature faith — faith that continues to serve God even without seeing immediate results.
Even if you preach for 20 years and see no outward success, or give sacrificially and still struggle financially — don’t give up. Don’t demand answers. Serve God faithfully, knowing that He sees, He remembers, and His timing is perfect.
Hebrews 6:10:
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
🙏 The Call: Become a Humble Servant
Let us take Jesus’ words to heart and say:
“Lord, I’m not serving You for reward. I serve because You are worthy.”
Whether He blesses us now or later, our identity is not in what we receive — but in whom we belong to.
Romans 14:8:
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
✅ Conclusion:
- Don’t seek faith by asking for more — activate the little faith you already have.
- Don’t serve expecting payment — serve because it is your privilege to serve the King.
- True faith is active in humble obedience.
- The path to spiritual power is through humble, selfless servanthood.
Luke 17:10:
“We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.”
And yet, in God’s grace — He rewards even what we don’t deserve.
Shalom.
Understanding Psalm 48:14 – “He Will Be Our Guide”
Psalm 48:14
“For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even to the end.”
Psalm 48:14 is a powerful declaration of God’s covenant faithfulness and unchanging nature. The psalmist affirms that the God of Israel is not just a historical figure who acted in the past, but the eternal God who continues to guide His people today and forever.
In saying, “He will be our guide even to the end,” the psalm reveals a core theological truth: God is personally involved in the journey of His people. This guidance includes spiritual direction, protection, wisdom, correction, and provision.
1. God’s Eternal Commitment to His People
The psalmist refers to “this God”—the one who revealed Himself to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the one who rescued Israel from Egypt. This is not a new or distant god, but the same covenant-keeping God who has always walked with His people. In covenant theology, this continuity of God’s presence is key:
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
This shows that God’s character and commitment don’t change. He is eternally faithful.
2. Divine Guidance in All of Life
The promise of guidance is not limited to religious matters. God promises to walk with us in every season—whether through deserts or victories, confusion or clarity. He leads:
- In life decisions (Proverbs 3:5–6)
- Through battles and trials (Exodus 14:14)
- Toward spiritual growth and righteousness (Psalm 23:3)
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
3. Historical Example: God Guided Israel
God’s guidance was vividly demonstrated during the Exodus:
- A pillar of cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:21)
- Angelic protection (Exodus 23:20)
- Moses, judges, kings, and prophets raised to shepherd the people
All of these show God’s desire to lead—not from a distance, but in close relationship.
4. Fulfillment in Christ and the Holy Spirit
Ultimately, God’s guiding presence was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who came not only to save but to lead. And when Christ ascended, He did not leave us as orphans:
John 16:13
“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come.”
Through the Holy Spirit, believers today continue to experience God’s personal guidance in their lives. The Spirit guides us in truth, convicts us of sin, and helps us discern God’s will.
Confidence in God’s Guidance
Psalm 48:14 is more than a poetic line—it is a theological anchor. We can boldly declare, “He will be our guide,” because:
- He has been faithful in history
- He is actively present through His Spirit
- He will guide us, not just temporarily, but “even to the end”—through life, death, and into eternity
Romans 8:14
“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
This is the kind of confidence that gives peace to every believer. God doesn’t just start with us—He walks with us to the finish.
May the Lord bless you as you trust His guidance every day.
