What Does “A Person Shall Bear Their Own Sin” Mean? (Leviticus 5:17)
Question: What does God’s Word mean when it says, “a person shall bear their own sin or guilt”?
Answer: Let’s examine the Scriptures closely.
Leviticus 5:17 states:
“If a person sins, doing any one of the things that by the Lord’s commandments ought not to be done, though he did not know it, he is still guilty and shall bear his iniquity.”
This passage highlights the principle of individual moral responsibility—each person is accountable before God for their own sins, whether willful or ignorant. Theologically, this aligns with the doctrine of personal accountability (Ezekiel 18:20,: “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father…”).
Similarly, Leviticus 24:15-16 says:
“Whoever curses God shall bear his sin. Whoever blasphemes the name of the Lord shall be put to death.”
Here we see the seriousness of sin against God’s holiness, where the sinner alone bears the guilt.
Retributive Justice in the Old Testament
The Old Testament law operated under the principle of lex talionis (“law of retaliation”), expressed in passages such as Exodus 21:23-25:
“But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot…”
This principle was meant to limit excessive punishment and ensure justice was proportional, not vengeful. It demonstrated God’s justice and holiness in maintaining order (Deuteronomy 19:21).
Leviticus 24:17-20 reiterates this principle:
“Whoever kills a human being shall be put to death. Whoever kills an animal shall make it good, life for life. If anyone injures his neighbor, as he has done it shall be done to him: fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth…”
No Retribution for Punishment Executed Under God’s Command
In certain cases, such as blasphemy or idolatry, those who executed God’s judgment were not punished. For example, the blasphemer was stoned (Leviticus 24:14-16), but those who carried out the sentence did not bear guilt for murder.
This reflects the theological distinction between divine justice and human vengeance. The punishment was ordained by God, so the sinner alone bore responsibility for the sin and its consequences. This is the sense in which “the one who died bears their own sin” — the sin and guilt do not transfer to the executioners.
Bearing the Sin of an Innocent Person
If someone killed an innocent person, the killers bore the guilt of murder and were to be punished (Numbers 35:30: “Whoever kills a person shall be put to death…”). This is referred to as “bearing the blood” of another (Genesis 9:5-6), emphasizing the sacredness of human life as made in God’s image (Imago Dei).
New Testament Teaching on Justice and Vengeance
In the New Testament, the principle of personal accountability remains (Romans 14:12: “So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”), but the approach to justice changes radically.
Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:38-39:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
This reveals the kingdom ethic of forgiveness and grace, replacing strict retribution.
Paul reiterates in Romans 12:19:
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
Thus, the New Testament forbids personal vengeance, emphasizing God’s justice and mercy.
May the Lord help us live responsibly and humbly before Him, trusting His justice and mercy.
What’s the Difference Between Life and Eternal Life According to the Bible?
When we talk about “life”, we usually mean natural, physical life—the ability to breathe, grow, eat, and move. This life is shared by all living creatures—humans, animals, and plants. It is the life of the body.
The Bible confirms this natural life:
“The righteous care for the life of their animals, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel.”
— Proverbs 12:10
This Life is the biological life God has given to living beings. It is necessary for survival, but it is temporary and limited to this earthly existence.
What is Life? The Spiritual and Eternal Life
The Bible reveals a deeper kind of life called “Eternal Life”, which is best understood as eternal life or spiritual life. This life is not merely physical existence but a quality of life that comes from knowing God personally through Jesus Christ.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
— John 10:10
Here, Jesus contrasts the natural life with the abundant life that He gives—a life characterized by fullness, joy, and eternal significance.
Body vs. Spirit
- Life refers to the physical life of the body, shared with all living creatures (Genesis 2:7; Psalm 104:29-30). Plants and animals have life but do not have eternal life.
- Eternal life refers to spiritual life, the life of the soul that continues forever and is found only in a restored relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
— John 17:3
This verse defines eternal life not just as endless existence but as knowing God personally, emphasizing the relational aspect of Eternal life.
Why Does This Matter?
Anyone outside of Christ has physical life but lacks eternal life. They are alive in the body but spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1).
“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…”
— Ephesians 2:1
Those who receive Christ are given eternal life, which transcends physical death.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
— John 3:36
Do you have eternal life in you?
Is Jesus Christ truly a part of your life, or are you only alive physically?
Without Christ, life is limited to this world and ends with death. With Christ, life continues forever, in intimate relationship with God.
The Lord is coming!
“You Will Be the Head and Not the Tail” — What Does That Really Mean?
In Deuteronomy 28:13, God makes a profound promise to His covenant people:
“The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.”
What Does It Mean to Be “the Head and Not the Tail”?
This phrase is a metaphor used within the blessings section of Deuteronomy 28, where God outlines the results of obedience to His covenant. To be “the head” symbolizes leadership, prominence, influence, and divine favor. In contrast, “the tail” symbolizes subordination, shame, and disadvantage.
This speaks to God’s design for His people to reflect His glory through obedience. Those who align with His will are elevated, while those who rebel fall under consequences. This aligns with the biblical theme found throughout the Torah and the Prophets: obedience brings blessing; disobedience brings curse (see also Deuteronomy 30:15–20).
Why Not Say “the Head and Not the Foot”?
It’s interesting that Scripture doesn’t contrast the “head” with the “foot,” but with the “tail.” This suggests that the imagery comes from the anatomy of animals—creatures that have both heads and tails.
- The head represents direction, decision-making, and nourishment—it receives food and leads the body.
- The tail is at the very end, following wherever the body moves. It is also near the part of the body where waste exits—symbolically linked to what is undesirable, dirty, and secondary.
From a theological perspective, this shows us a picture of two types of people:
- Those who fear and obey God: They are leaders, recipients of God’s best, and influencers in the world (Matthew 5:14–16).
- Those who reject God’s ways: They end up followers of the world, recipients of defilement and disgrace, pushed around by circumstances instead of being guided by divine wisdom.
Jesus affirms this kingdom principle in Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Covenant Context: Blessings for Obedience, Curses for Disobedience
The entire chapter of Deuteronomy 28 outlines the blessings of the covenant (vv. 1–14) and the curses for breaking it (vv. 15–68). The promise to be the head, not the tail, is conditional. It is not automatic—it requires faithful obedience.
Later in the same chapter, we read the consequences of disobedience:
“The foreigners who reside among you will rise above you higher and higher, but you will sink lower and lower. They will lend to you, but you will not lend to them. They will be the head, but you will be the tail.” (Deuteronomy 28:43–44)
This reversal shows what happens when people ignore God’s commands—they lose not only their blessing, but also their position, influence, and dignity.
Spiritual Application Today
While these promises were originally given to Israel under the Old Covenant, their spiritual principles remain true for us today under the New Covenant through Christ. In Christ, we are also called to walk in obedience—not to earn salvation, but as evidence of our transformation (Ephesians 2:10, John 14:15).
God desires His people to be examples in society—those who reflect His justice, truth, and mercy. We are called to lead, not lag behind; to influence, not be controlled by the world.
As Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Those who live according to God’s Word will be like the head—stable, wise, fruitful, and favored.
Choose Your Position
Being the “head” is about more than status—it’s about living under the rule and blessing of God. If we desire that place of blessing, leadership, and purpose, we must listen to God’s voice, follow His Word, and reject the idols and systems of the world.
“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19)
Let’s choose life. Let’s walk in obedience. Let’s live as the head, not the tail.
May the Lord help us. Amen.
Will We Recognize Each Other in Heaven?
One of the most comforting thoughts about heaven is the idea that we will be reunited with our loved ones. But many people wonder—will we actually recognize each other in heaven? While the Bible doesn’t give a clear, step-by-step answer to this question, there are several verses that strongly suggest we will indeed recognize each other when we are in God’s presence.
1. Our Identities Will Be Kept Intact
The Bible teaches that we will experience a transformation in our bodies, but our identities will remain the same. In 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Paul talks about the resurrection of the dead, explaining how our earthly bodies will be changed into glorified bodies:
“So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.”
Even though our bodies will be transformed and made perfect, the essence of who we are—our memories, personalities, and relationships—will remain. So, it seems likely that we will recognize one another, even in our glorified forms.
2. The Example of Moses and Elijah
One of the most powerful examples of recognition in the Bible comes from the Transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17. In this moment, Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus, and the disciples instantly recognize them, even though they’d never met them before. The Bible says:
“There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.” (Matthew 17:2-3)
This suggests that recognition is possible even after we are transformed into a glorified state. If the disciples could recognize Moses and Elijah in their glorified forms, it gives us hope that we will also recognize our loved ones when we meet them again.
3. The Promise of a Reunion
In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Paul comforts believers who are mourning the loss of loved ones by telling them that, at Christ’s return, the dead in Christ will rise, and those who are alive will be reunited with them:
“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
This promise of reunion suggests that when we are resurrected, we will not only be with the Lord but also reunited with those we’ve lost. And because it’s a reunion, it seems clear that we will recognize each other in that moment.
4. The Example of Jesus After His Resurrection
When Jesus rose from the dead, He was recognized by His disciples, even though His body was glorified. In John 20:16, when Mary Magdalene sees Jesus outside the tomb, she doesn’t recognize Him at first. But when He calls her by name, she immediately knows it’s Him:
“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means ‘Teacher’).” (John 20:16)
This story shows that even after His resurrection, Jesus was recognizable. It gives us hope that, in heaven, we will recognize each other, too, despite any transformations.
5. Full Knowledge and Understanding
In 1 Corinthians 13:12, Paul writes that in heaven, we will see and understand things more clearly:
“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
This verse suggests that in heaven, we will have a perfect understanding of everything—including our relationships. If we will know each other fully, it makes sense that we will recognize one another, even if we’ve been transformed.
Conclusion
While the Bible doesn’t give us all the details, there’s enough evidence to suggest that we will recognize each other in heaven. Our identities will remain intact, and we will be reunited with our loved ones. Whether through the examples of Moses and Elijah, the resurrection of Jesus, or the promises of reunion and perfect knowledge, Scripture offers a beautiful picture of the hope that we will indeed know one another in heaven.
This hope is one of the greatest comforts for believers, especially when we face the loss of loved ones. The promise of reunion reminds us that death does not separate us forever, and one day we will be with those we love in the presence of God, experiencing joy and fellowship without end.
Understanding the Difference Between Law and Principle in the Bible
In biblical, it’s important to distinguish between a law (Hebrew: torah or mishpat) and a principle or ordinance (Hebrew: chuqqah or piqqudim). Though related, they are not the same.
A law is a direct, binding command from God—a moral or ceremonial obligation that must be followed.
A principle (or ordinance) refers to the detailed instructions or regulations that guide how the law is to be carried out.
This distinction helps us understand how God communicates both what He wants from us and how to fulfill it.
Biblical Example: The Passover
In Exodus 12, God commands the Israelites to observe the Passover—this is the law. But alongside the law, He gives very specific principles about how it should be observed.
“This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you… On the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb…”
(Exodus 12:2–3)
The law is: “You shall keep the Passover.”
The principles include:
- It must be on the 14th day of the first month,
- A lamb without blemish must be selected and slaughtered,
- It must be roasted with fire,
- It must be eaten with bitter herbs and unleavened bread.
These details are not additional laws—they are regulations that guide the proper keeping of the one law.
“You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever.”
(Exodus 12:24)
Law and Principle Unified: Numbers 9:14
“You shall have one statute, both for the sojourner and for the native, for him who does any of these things.”
(Numbers 9:14)
This verse affirms that both the law and its principles applied to everyone—Israelite and foreigner alike. Obedience to God’s commands required attention not just to what was commanded, but how it was to be practiced.
Application in the New Covenant: The Law of Christ
In the New Testament, believers are no longer under the Mosaic Law (Galatians 3:24–25), but under the Law of Christ, which is summarized in love.
“For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
(Galatians 5:14)
However, even love has principles—practical expressions that define what true, godly love looks like.
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude…”
(1 Corinthians 13:4–5)
These are principles of love—guidelines that show how to obey the law of Christ in daily life. Love is not left undefined; Scripture teaches us how to love.
Biblical Pattern: Precept Upon Precept
God often reveals His will progressively—through both laws and the principles that support them.
“And the word of the Lord will be to them: precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little…”
(Isaiah 28:13)
This verse reflects the pedagogical method of Scripture—God teaches us step by step, helping us build understanding over time.
Understanding the difference between law and principle deepens our walk with God. The law gives the command; the principles guide the application. From the Old Testament to the New, God has always desired not just external obedience, but thoughtful, informed, and wholehearted devotion.
Let us therefore study both the commandments of Christ and the principles that teach us how to live them out daily.
Come, Lord Jesus! – Revelation 22:20
Is God Sovereign?
One of the most foundational beliefs in the Christian faith is the sovereignty of God. But what does it mean when we say God is sovereign? Is He truly in control of everything, from the vast expanse of the universe to the smallest details of our lives? The Bible paints a picture of a God who rules over all things with complete authority, and understanding this truth can transform the way we see the world and our place in it.
What Does Sovereignty Really Mean?
At its core, God’s sovereignty means that He is the ultimate ruler, the supreme authority over all of creation. It means that nothing happens outside of His will and that He is actively involved in everything that occurs in the world. Sovereignty is not just about having power; it’s about exercising that power perfectly and with purpose. God’s rule is universal, absolute, and constant.
When we talk about God’s sovereignty, we’re talking about:
- His supreme power over everything in the universe.
- His absolute authority—He has the right to rule over all creation.
- His will—Everything happens according to His perfect and intentional plans.
What Does the Bible Say About God’s Sovereignty?
The Bible is clear about God’s sovereignty. From the beginning of creation to the end of time, God is depicted as being in full control. Here are a few key Scriptures that show His reign:
- Psalm 103:19 (NIV) tells us, “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” This verse emphasizes that God is not distant or detached. His kingdom is all-encompassing.
- Daniel 4:35 (NIV) says, “All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: ‘What have you done?’” This speaks to the unmatched authority of God. There is no one who can challenge His will or question His actions.
- Isaiah 45:9-10 (NIV) offers an interesting perspective with the imagery of the potter and clay: “Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker, those who are nothing but potsherds among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making?’ Does your work say, ‘The potter has no hands’?” God, as the Creator, has the right to do as He pleases with His creation.
- Romans 8:28 (NIV) gives us comfort: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse reassures us that God’s sovereignty is not just about power but about His loving control, working everything together for our good.
- Ephesians 1:11 (NIV) says, “In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” This reminds us that God’s plans are not random; everything is part of His greater purpose.
God’s Sovereignty in Creation
One of the most clear and immediate demonstrations of God’s sovereignty is the creation of the world itself. In Genesis 1, we see God speaking the universe into existence, bringing everything from light to life into being by His will alone. He is not a passive observer of creation, but the active Creator, orchestrating all things.
- Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV) says, “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” These verses highlight that God not only created everything but continues to sustain it.
God’s Sovereignty in History
God’s sovereignty is not just seen in creation but in the unfolding of history. The Bible tells us that He is actively involved in guiding the course of human events. Whether it’s the rise and fall of nations or the fulfillment of prophecy, God’s hand is evident throughout time.
- Psalm 115:3 (NIV) says, “Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” This verse reminds us that nothing happens apart from God’s will—He is not surprised by anything.
- Proverbs 21:1 (NIV) gives us insight into God’s influence over earthly rulers: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.” Even the decisions of the most powerful rulers are within God’s control.
How Does God’s Sovereignty Work with Human Free Will?
This is one of the most difficult questions many people wrestle with: If God is sovereign, do we still have free will? The Bible teaches that both are true—God is sovereign, and humans are responsible for their choices.
- Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (NIV) says, “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him.” This shows that we have a choice, but even in our choices, God’s sovereignty remains.
- Philippians 2:12-13 (NIV) says, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” This shows that God’s sovereignty doesn’t negate our responsibility, but rather works within us to guide us toward His will.
What Does God’s Sovereignty Mean for Us?
So, what does God’s sovereignty mean for our daily lives? It means we can trust Him, no matter what happens. If God is truly sovereign, then we know that:
- He is in control, even when things seem out of control. When life feels chaotic, we can rest in the truth that God has a purpose.
- We can trust His plans for us. Romans 8:28 reminds us that God is working everything together for our good. Even when we face challenges, we can know that God is working in and through those circumstances.
- We find peace in the midst of suffering. Because God is sovereign, we can have confidence that our suffering is not pointless. God will use even the hardest moments for His purposes.
Conclusion
God’s sovereignty is a profound truth that shapes the way we live, trust, and respond to life. It’s a reminder that we are not in control, but the One who created and sustains all things is. And that’s something we can rest in. The sovereignty of God doesn’t just give us comfort in knowing He is in control; it encourages us to surrender our lives to Him, trusting that His plans are better than ours. When we understand God’s sovereignty, we can find peace in the knowledge that, no matter what happens, He is in control.
What’s the Difference Between Holiness and Glory?
Understanding the difference between holiness and glory is vital in grasping the nature of God and His work in our lives. Though these words are often used together, they are not the same. Let’s explore what each means and how they relate to each other from a biblical and theological perspective.
1. What is Holiness?
Holiness refers to moral purity, separation from sin, and dedication to God. The Hebrew word for holy (qadosh) means “set apart.” In the New Testament, the Greek term hagios carries a similar meaning.
To be holy means to be pure, undefiled, and separated for God’s purposes. This applies both to physical things (like the temple or sacrifices) and to people who follow God.
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”
— 1 Peter 1:14–15
A holy person is someone who has been cleansed by the blood of Jesus and chooses to live in obedience to God, rejecting sin.
2. What is Glory?
Glory (Hebrew: kabod; Greek: doxa) refers to the visible or manifest beauty, brilliance, or greatness of God. It is the radiance that results from His nature and holiness. In simple terms, glory is what shines out from holiness—the visible or tangible expression of God’s perfection.
To illustrate: when gold is purified, it shines. That shine is its glory. Similarly, God’s holiness results in an overwhelming radiance—His glory.
“And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother… and he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.”
— Matthew 17:1–2
Here, Jesus’ inner holiness was revealed outwardly as glory—a visible, radiant light.
3. Holiness Produces Glory
We must understand this principle: Holiness comes first, and glory flows from it. You cannot have true glory without holiness. When someone is holy—cleansed from sin, walking in the Spirit, and separated for God—the glory of God becomes evident in their life, even if it’s not visible in a physical sense.
Jesus, being perfectly holy, revealed the glory of God in everything He did. Likewise, believers who pursue holiness reflect God’s glory in their lives.
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:18
4. God’s Glory Flows From His Perfect Holiness
God’s glory is inseparable from His holiness. In Isaiah’s vision, the seraphim declare God’s holiness repeatedly—and then say the earth is full of His glory:
“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.”
— Isaiah 6:3
Here, the holiness of God is the foundation of His overwhelming glory. Even the angels hide their faces from His radiant presence (Isaiah 6:2), showing that His glory is awe-inspiring and powerful.
5. Can Human Beings Reflect God’s Holiness and Glory?
Absolutely. Through the sanctifying work of Christ and the Holy Spirit, believers are called to live holy lives—and in doing so, they reflect the glory of God in a dark world.
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
— 1 Peter 2:9
And in the Old Testament:
“As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”
— Psalm 16:3
Holiness is not just possible—it is expected of all who belong to Christ. And through that holiness, God’s light (His glory) shines through us to the world.
Holiness is about being clean, pure, and set apart for God. Glory is the radiance that flows from that holiness. Without holiness, there can be no true glory. But if we walk in holiness, God’s glory will shine in us and through us.
Let us, therefore, pursue holiness—not just for personal piety, but that the glory of God might be revealed in our lives.
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
— Hebrews 12:14
May the Lord help us live holy lives that reflect His glory.
PRAY AT THE RIGHT TIME
In Zechariah 10:1, it says:
“Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the spring rains, for the Lord makes clouds, and he gives them showers of rain, to everyone vegetation in the field.”
This verse highlights the importance of praying in the right season. God’s providence is tied to the natural order and timing He has established (Genesis 8:22). Asking for rain during the rainy season aligns with His created rhythm and reflects faith in His timing.
Why does the scripture specify praying for rain during the spring rains and not during the dry season? Because the spring rains are the appointed time for rain. If rain fails to come then, it is an extraordinary situation that calls for prayer (James 5:17-18). But praying for rain during the dry season, when it is naturally less expected, is less effective because it is outside God’s ordained time.
This principle applies broadly to prayer and God’s blessings: there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Praying in alignment with God’s timing is crucial for effective prayers.
For example:
- If you are a student, praying for academic success and wisdom (James 1:5) fits your current season better than praying for wealth or a spouse.
- If you are young and still dependent on your parents, praying for protection and good character is appropriate until you reach the season of marriage (1 Timothy 4:12).
When you pray for the right things in God’s appointed season, He responds with mercy and grace (Psalm 145:8-9). Even if answers seem delayed, God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and His delays are for our good (Romans 8:28).
If you are in the right season but don’t yet see results, be patient and trust God’s promises (Hebrews 6:12). He will strengthen you daily (Isaiah 40:31).
Salvation also has its appointed season—and that season is now.
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 says:
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
This underscores the urgency of responding to God’s grace. Salvation is a present reality offered through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), but this opportunity will not last forever. Scripture warns that a time will come when the door of grace closes (Hebrews 10:26-27) and forgiveness is no longer available (Ecclesiastes 11:3).
Many today ignore God’s warnings about sin (Romans 1:18-32) and reject His offer of salvation. But God’s patience is not infinite (2 Peter 3:9), and judgment will come for those who persist in rebellion (Hebrews 10:31).
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 shows how God sent prophets to warn His people, but they rejected them until His wrath came and no remedy remained. This reminds us that ignoring God’s timing and warnings leads to judgment.
Pray in accordance with God’s timing, understanding the season you are in. Seek God’s guidance, protection, and provision relevant to your stage in life. Above all, respond to the urgent call of salvation today while God’s grace is available.
May the Lord help us discern the right seasons and respond faithfully.
Who Was the First to See the Risen Lord Jesus—Peter or Mary Magdalene?
Question: Between Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to see the risen Lord Jesus? Luke 24:34 says Jesus appeared first to Simon Peter, but Mark 16:9 says Mary Magdalene was the first. How can these two statements be reconciled?
Biblical Examination
Luke 24:33-34 states:
“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together, saying, ‘The Lord has truly risen and has appeared to Simon!’”
This passage highlights that Jesus appeared to Simon Peter (also called Cephas).
On the other hand, Mark 16:9 records:
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”
This clearly identifies Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the risen Jesus.
Sequence and Significance
There is no contradiction here because the passages emphasize different moments and theological meanings.
- Mary Magdalene as the First Witness:
Mark 16:9 and John 20:1-18 emphasize Mary Magdalene’s role as the first human witness to the resurrection. Theologically, this is significant because Mary represents the marginalized and forgiven sinner (Luke 8:2), demonstrating that the resurrection is a message of hope for all, not just the religious elite. - Peter as the First Apostle Witness:
Luke 24:34 stresses Jesus’ appearance to Simon Peter, who was the leader of the apostles (Matthew 16:18-19). Theologically, this establishes Peter’s authority in the early Church and affirms apostolic witness, crucial for the foundation of the Christian faith (Ephesians 2:20). - Sequence of Appearances:
Mary Magdalene’s encounter happened early, immediately after Jesus’ resurrection, as recorded in Mark and John. After informing the disciples, Jesus appeared to Peter (1 Corinthians 15:5), validating Peter’s role as an eyewitness and leader.
Supporting Scripture
John 20:14-18
Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb and is the first to see Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the personal, relational nature of the risen Christ calling His follower by name.
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Paul summarizes resurrection appearances:
“…that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…”
This passage emphasizes the historical reality and communal testimony of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Christian faith.
Have you personally encountered the risen Jesus? The resurrection promises victory over death and eternal life (John 11:25-26). As we live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), the question remains: where will you be when Jesus returns? The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16)—don’t reject it as foolishness.
May the grace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ empower and guide us always.
REMOVE DECEPTION FROM YOUR LIFE
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST.
The Lesson from the Fig Tree
One morning, as Jesus was returning to the city, He became hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the roadside, He approached it to look for fruit. But despite its healthy appearance—full of leaves—He found none. Then He said:
“May you never bear fruit again!”
Immediately, the tree withered.
— Matthew 21:18–19 (NIV)
At first glance, this might seem harsh. Why would Jesus curse a tree for not having fruit—especially when it wasn’t even the season for figs (Mark 11:13)?
But Jesus wasn’t acting out of frustration. This moment was symbolic. He was using the fig tree as a powerful visual lesson for His disciples—and for us.
Outward Appearance vs. Inner Reality
In biblical times, a fig tree in full leaf would normally signal the presence of early, edible fruit. If it had leaves, it should have had some figs, even if small or unripe. But this tree had all the signs of fruitfulness—yet it was empty. It looked alive but was barren.
This fig tree represents people who appear godly on the outside but are spiritually empty on the inside. They have the “leaves” of religion: church attendance, Christian language, even leadership roles. But when God looks deeper, He finds no fruit—no evidence of true repentance, love, faith, or obedience.
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
— Matthew 15:8 (NIV)
Just as Jesus expected fruit from the fig tree, God expects fruit in our lives. That fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Without this fruit, our faith is a facade.
The Danger of Lukewarm Faith
Many Christians today live deceived lives—outwardly religious but inwardly unchanged. This is the same condition Jesus warns about in the book of Revelation:
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
— Revelation 3:15–16 (NIV)
Lukewarm faith is offensive to God. It’s better to be cold (fully apart from God and aware of it) than to pretend to be close to Him while remaining spiritually dead. Lukewarm believers are content with surface-level religion, but their hearts remain unchanged. That’s dangerous, because deception is worse than ignorance—it blinds you to your true condition.
God Desires Sincerity, Not Show
God doesn’t want empty religion—He wants a real relationship. Jesus cursed the fig tree not because it failed naturally, but because it pretended to be fruitful. That pretense—hypocrisy—is what drew judgment.
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs,
which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead.”
— Matthew 23:27 (NIV)
It’s not enough to look the part. God sees the heart.
So What Should We Do?
If we find ourselves living like that fig tree—impressive on the outside but empty within—then it’s time to change. God gives us the opportunity to repent and bear fruit. He is patient, but not forever.
“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
— Matthew 3:8 (NIV)
If you choose to follow Christ, do it with all your heart. Don’t settle for being “half-Christian.” If you’re going to be a believer, be fully committed. Jesus said:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
— Luke 9:23 (NIV)
Final Encouragement
Let’s not just carry the name of Christ—let’s reflect His character.
Let our lives be filled with true spiritual fruit, not just leafy appearances.
Ask God to search your heart and make your faith genuine.
Pray for the strength to live boldly and fruitfully for Him.
And if you’re lukewarm, ask Him to set your heart on fire again.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… Instead he is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
May Jesus help us live lives of real faith, not fake appearances.
May we be fruitful trees, not leafy deceivers.
God bless you
