Title 2025

Question:
Is it correct to say that some of Paul’s letters were intended only for specific churches, and therefore not everything in them applies to us today? For instance, was the letter to the Corinthians only relevant to the Corinthian church, and should we therefore ignore certain teachings that were context-specific? Similarly, should we view the letter to the Ephesians as applicable only to that church and not to the universal Church, including believers today?

Answer:
To answer this question faithfully, we need to understand both the historical context and the theological nature of the epistles, particularly Paul’s role as an apostle of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote letters to address specific issues in specific churches, but these letters were also divinely inspired and intended for the broader Church across generations.

Let’s begin with how Paul opens his letter to the Colossians:

Colossians 1:1–2 (ESV)
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,
To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.”

Yes, the letter was addressed to believers in Colossae, a real, local church with specific issues. However, that does not imply that the message is restricted to them alone.

Paul makes this very clear in the same letter:

Colossians 4:16 (ESV)
“And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.”

This verse reveals that Paul intended his letters to be circulated among multiple congregations. Though each letter was occasioned by specific circumstances, Paul did not restrict their relevance to one church. Why? Because the teachings in them are rooted in universal truths of the gospel and apostolic doctrine that apply to all believers.

Apostolic Authority and Universal Application

Paul was not just writing as a concerned leader he was writing as a divinely commissioned apostle (see Galatians 1:1). His writings carry the authority of Christ and were inspired by the Holy Spirit.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

This includes Paul’s letters. The early Church recognized them as Scripture (cf. 2 Peter 3:15–16), and they were preserved and canonized precisely because they speak to the ongoing life and faith of the Church.

Paul’s Greeting to the Galatians

Let’s look at how Paul addresses the Galatians:

Galatians 1:1–2 (ESV)
“Paul, an apostle not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead
and all the brothers who are with me, To the churches of Galatia.”

The plural “churches of Galatia” indicates a regional audience. Galatia was a province with many congregations, yet one letter was written to them all. This shows that Paul’s messages were not tightly tailored to individual church nuances, but spoke to broader issues relevant across the body of Christ.

The Case of the Corinthians

Paul makes this universality even more explicit in his letter to the Corinthians:

1 Corinthians 1:2 (ESV)
“To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:”

This greeting makes it clear: Paul’s message was for all who call on the name of Jesus across locations, cultures, and times. The doctrines he addresses, whether about spiritual gifts, church discipline, or gender roles, are grounded in eternal truths, not mere cultural preferences.

Theological Implications

1. Inspiration of Scripture:
   Paul’s letters are part of the canon of Scripture, divinely inspired (2 Timothy 3:16) and applicable to all generations of believers.
2. Sufficiency and Authority of Scripture:
   Scripture, including Pauline epistles, is sufficient for the Church’s doctrine and practice (Hebrews 4:12). No part is outdated or irrelevant unless clearly abrogated by Scripture itself (e.g., ceremonial laws in the Old Covenant).
3. Ecclesiology (Doctrine of the Church):
   Paul’s instruction applies to the universal Church, not just local congregations. The issues he addressed such as holiness, leadership, worship, marriage, and unity are timeless concerns for all believers.
4. Hermeneutics (Bible Interpretation):
   While understanding the original context is important, it doesn’t limit application. Sound hermeneutics seeks universal principles within the historical context, which are then faithfully applied today.

Application to Modern Churches

Teachings about holiness, modesty, and righteous living (1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, 1 Peter 1:15–16) were not cultural artifacts they reflect God’s enduring moral standards. The roles of men and women in the Church, as outlined in passages like:

1 Corinthians 14:34–35 (ESV) “The women should keep silent in the churches…”1 Timothy 2:8–12 (ESV)  “I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man…”

These instructions are rooted in creation order and not merely cultural customs (see 1 Timothy 2:13). They remain relevant for the Church today, though they must be applied with wisdom, grace, and understanding of the whole counsel of God.

Final Thought

To claim that Paul’s letters apply only to the original recipients is to undermine the inspiration, authority, and sufficiency of Scripture. Paul’s teachings transcend time, geography, and culture because they are founded on the unchanging truth of the gospel.

Let us receive them, teach them, and apply them faithfully.

Revelation 22:18–19 (ESV)
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book,
and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life…”

May God help us to honor His Word fully and submit to its truth.

Shalom..

Print this post

Archippus is a lesser-known figure in the New Testament, but his role is significant in understanding the early Christian ministry. He is identified as a servant of the New Covenant who worked closely with the Apostle Paul in spreading the Gospel. He is mentioned specifically in two of Paul’s letters: to Philemon and to the Colossians.

Archippus in Paul’s Letter to Philemon

In his letter to Philemon, Paul refers to Archippus as a “fellow soldier” (Philemon 1:2, NIV). This title indicates that Archippus was a co-laborer with Paul in the ministry, particularly in spreading the Gospel. Paul’s use of “fellow soldier” highlights the sense of spiritual warfare involved in Christian ministry—just as soldiers stand together in physical battle, ministers of the Gospel must endure challenges, hardships, and opposition in their calling.

Philemon 1:1-2 (NIV):

[1] Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,
To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker—
[2] to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home.

This passage not only refers to Archippus as a soldier but also places him alongside other important figures in the early Christian church, such as Philemon and Apphia. The mention of the “church that meets in your home” suggests that Archippus might have had a leadership role in this early Christian gathering.

Archippus in Paul’s Letter to the Colossians

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul gives a direct and personal instruction to Archippus. He urges him to “take heed to the ministry” given to him by the Lord and to ensure that he fulfills it (Colossians 4:17). This reinforces the theological truth that every believer is called to a specific ministry or service in God’s kingdom, and that this calling is not something to be taken lightly or neglected.

Colossians 4:17 (ESV):

And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”

Paul’s exhortation to Archippus to “take heed” (or “pay attention”) emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and dedicated to the ministry God has entrusted to him. The ministry here refers to the specific calling Archippus received from the Lord, which was likely tied to his role in the church at Colossae or the broader mission of spreading the Gospel.

Theological Significance of Archippus’ Ministry

Paul’s words to Archippus are not just for him—they are also a reminder for every believer. Theologically, we can understand from these passages that:

1. Ministry is a Calling from God: Paul emphasizes that the ministry Archippus received was from the Lord, not from man (Colossians 4:17). This is an important theological point. Ministry is not a human initiative, but a divine calling. Christians are called to serve based on God’s sovereign will, and this calling requires commitment and responsibility.

   • 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) reminds us:

     “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

2. Fulfilling Ministry Requires Faithfulness and Diligence: The encouragement to Archippus is that he should be diligent in fulfilling the ministry entrusted to him. Ministry involves both dedication and perseverance. In the face of distractions, discouragement, or opposition, it is important to remember that God has given us a role to play in His kingdom.

   • 2 Timothy 4:5 (NIV) highlights this:

     “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.”

3. Spiritual Warfare: Paul’s reference to Archippus as a “fellow soldier” speaks to the nature of Christian ministry as involving spiritual warfare. The apostle Paul frequently likens the Christian life to a battle (Ephesians 6:12, 2 Timothy 2:3), reminding believers that they are engaged in a spiritual battle against sin, the world, and the devil.

   • Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) says:

     “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Why Did Paul Encourage Archippus?

Paul’s encouragement to Archippus might stem from a few reasons:

1. Discouragement: Archippus may have been facing personal doubts, weariness, or discouragement. Ministry is often difficult, and even the most faithful workers can feel overwhelmed or unappreciated. Paul’s reminder that the ministry is from the Lord could have been a way to reinvigorate Archippus’ sense of purpose and strengthen his resolve.

2. Neglect or Complacency: Archippus may have been neglecting his calling or becoming complacent. Paul’s urging to “fulfill” the ministry is a call to action, a reminder not to neglect the gift or responsibility given to him by God.

3. Reaffirmation of God’s Calling: Paul’s words reaffirm the theological truth that God equips His servants for ministry. Sometimes, believers need to be reminded that they are not working in their own strength, but in God’s power and calling.

What Can We Learn from Archippus?

1. Every Believer Has a Ministry: Just as Archippus was given a ministry by the Lord, every believer is called to serve in the body of Christ. Whether our roles are visible or hidden, each one of us has been entrusted with a task to advance God’s kingdom.

   • Romans 12:4-5 (NIV) teaches:

     “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

2. Faithfulness in Ministry is Essential: The call to “fulfill” the ministry (Colossians 4:17) is a call to faithfulness. We are encouraged to press on, even when challenges arise. The Christian life and ministry require endurance and a commitment to finish the race set before us.

   • 1 Corinthians 4:2 (ESV) says:

     “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”

3. Spiritual Battle and Endurance: As soldiers of Christ, we are called to endure hardship and persevere in faith, no matter the challenges we face. Ministry is not for the faint of heart—it requires resilience and reliance on God’s strength.

   • 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV):

     “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Conclusion: Timely Encouragement for All Believers

The story of Archippus serves as a reminder to all believers that we are called to a ministry by God. Whether we are actively engaged in visible service or quietly supporting the work of the kingdom, each one of us is a servant of the Lord, and we must be faithful in fulfilling our calling.

Paul’s encouragement to Archippus to “take heed” and “fulfill” his ministry speaks to all of us today. We are all soldiers in God’s army, called to fight the good fight, to endure challenges, and to remain faithful to the calling we have received from the Lord.

Shalom.

This version includes more theological depth, drawing on key Bible passages to provide a fuller understanding of Archippus’ role and how it relates to the life of every Christian.

Print this post

Aristarchus may not be as well-known as Paul or Peter, but his quiet, unwavering support of the Apostle Paul marks him as a significant figure in the New Testament Church. His life challenges modern believers to embrace costly discipleship, perseverance, and loyalty in ministry.

1. A Believer from Thessalonica

Aristarchus is first introduced as a believer from Thessalonica, a key city in Macedonia where Paul preached the gospel during his second missionary journey.

“He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica…”
— Acts 20:4, NIV

His decision to accompany Paul on his journeys suggests that he was not only a convert but also a committed disciple. The early Church often relied on such men—willing to leave home and comfort to serve the spread of the gospel (Matthew 16:24-25).

2. A Companion in Persecution

Aristarchus’s loyalty was tested during the violent riot in Ephesus, when the preaching of the gospel disrupted the idol-making industry. The mob targeted Paul’s companions, seizing both Aristarchus and Gaius.

“Soon the whole city was in an uproar. The people seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia, and all of them rushed into the theater together.”
— Acts 19:29, NIV

This moment mirrors Jesus’ warning in John 15:20:

“If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.”
Aristarchus experienced this firsthand, reminding us that gospel ministry often brings suffering.

3. A Fellow Prisoner with Paul

The depth of Aristarchus’s commitment is further revealed in Paul’s letter to the Colossians:

“My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings…”
— Colossians 4:10, NIV

He was not only a supporter of Paul but was actually imprisoned with him. The Greek term “synaichmalōtos” (fellow prisoner) implies shared captivity, likely during Paul’s house arrest in Rome (Acts 28:30). Such shared suffering reflects Philippians 1:7, where Paul says:

“Whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.”

4. A Courageous Traveler Through Storms

Aristarchus was also on the ship with Paul as he was being taken to Rome under Roman custody.

“We boarded a ship from Adramyttium… Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us.”
— Acts 27:2, NIV

That journey involved terrifying storms and a shipwreck (Acts 27:13–44), yet Aristarchus stayed through it all. This is a picture of steadfastness—the kind Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 4:8–9:

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed… struck down, but not destroyed.”

5. A Model of Faithful Ministry

In Philemon 1:24, Paul includes Aristarchus in his list of “fellow workers,” a title of honor that recognizes co-laborers in the gospel mission.

“…and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.”
— Philemon 1:24, NIV

Though Aristarchus may not have preached widely or written epistles, his ministry of presence, endurance, and encouragement was crucial to Paul’s success. The New Testament vision of Church ministry is not about solo heroes, but about the body of Christ working together (1 Corinthians 12:12–27).

Conclusion: A Call to Modern-Day Aristarchuses

Aristarchus teaches us that faithful gospel ministry isn’t always public, but it’s always valuable. His life calls modern believers to:

• Serve willingly, even when the path is uncertain.
• Remain loyal, even in the face of persecution.
• Endure hardship, knowing that nothing is wasted in the service of Christ (Romans 8:28).
• Support others, even if the spotlight is not on you.

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord…”
— 1 Corinthians 15:58, NIV

May God raise up many like Aristarchus in our churches today—quiet champions of the gospel who strengthen the Church by their faithfulness.

Shalom.

Print this post

Sosthenes was a Jewish synagogue leader in Corinth who later became a Christian and a co-laborer with the Apostle Paul in the early church. His journey from a religious authority within Judaism to a follower of Christ illustrates the transformative power of the gospel and God’s grace.

Sosthenes in Corinth – A Ruler of the Synagogue

In Acts 18, Paul arrives in Corinth during his second missionary journey. He begins reasoning in the synagogue every Sabbath, attempting to persuade both Jews and Greeks. Initially, Paul faces resistance from the Jewish community. However, God encourages him to remain and preach boldly:

“Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, ‘Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;
for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.’”
— Acts 18:9–10 (NKJV)

Paul obeys and stays for a year and six months, teaching the Word of God (Acts 18:11). During this period, many Corinthians believe, including Crispus, the synagogue ruler at the time (Acts 18:8), and later Sosthenes, who appears to succeed Crispus in that role.

The Opposition and Sosthenes’ Beating

Paul’s effective ministry sparks jealousy among some Jews, who bring him before Gallio, the Roman proconsul, accusing him of promoting unlawful worship. Gallio dismisses their accusations as internal religious matters:

“But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, ‘If it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you.
But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters.’”
— Acts 18:14–15 (NKJV)

After Gallio refuses to act, the crowd takes Sosthenes, now the ruler of the synagogue, and beats him publicly:

“Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things.”
— Acts 18:17 (NKJV)

This attack may indicate that Sosthenes had shown sympathy toward Paul—either by being lenient, allowing him to preach, or even by beginning to embrace Paul’s teachings. The fact that he was singled out by the mob suggests he was seen as a traitor to the Jewish cause.

Sosthenes the Believer – A Brother in Christ

Later, when Paul writes his first epistle to the Corinthians, he opens with a greeting from himself and “Sosthenes our brother”:

“Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,”
— 1 Corinthians 1:1 (NKJV)

This is widely understood by scholars and theologians to be the same Sosthenes from Acts 18:17. If so, this means that Sosthenes eventually became a Christian and a trusted companion of Paul, helping in the authorship or delivery of the letter. His inclusion as a co-sender affirms his leadership and acceptance within the early church.

Theological Insights and Lessons from Sosthenes

1. God Calls People from All Backgrounds
   Sosthenes’ conversion shows that even those deeply rooted in religious tradition and opposition to the gospel can be transformed. Like Paul, another former persecutor of the faith (Acts 9), Sosthenes’ life testifies to God’s grace in reaching the most unlikely individuals.
2. The Gospel Challenges Religious Structures
   As ruler of the synagogue, Sosthenes represented the Jewish religious establishment. His eventual support of Paul demonstrates how the gospel confronts and surpasses old systems, fulfilling the Law through Christ (Matthew 5:17; Romans 10:4).
3. Persecution Often Precedes Purpose
   Sosthenes was publicly beaten for his association with Paul. Suffering for the faith is a hallmark of Christian discipleship (Philippians 1:29; 2 Timothy 3:12), yet God uses that suffering to shape and position His servants.
4. No One Is Beyond Redemption
   The story reminds us not to limit whom we share the gospel with. Just as Romans 1:16 declares,

   “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…”
   We are called to preach to all—religious leaders, skeptics, traditionalists—because only God knows who are “His people” (Acts 18:10).

Final Encouragement

Sosthenes’ story is one of courage, transformation, and faithfulness. He went from a respected leader in Judaism to a Christian servant working alongside the apostle Paul. If God can use a synagogue ruler to build His church, He can use anyone—including you.

Preach the Word boldly, without prejudice.
You may be planting the seed in the next Sosthenes.

May the Lord bless you as you serve Him.

Print this post

Tychicus is one of the lesser-known figures in the New Testament, yet he played a crucial role in the spread of the gospel and the strengthening of the early Church. He was a close companion of the Apostle Paul and is mentioned in five different New Testament letters. Though he may not receive as much attention as other early Church leaders, his contributions were vital, especially in the areas of ministry support, church leadership, and pastoral communication.

1. A Trusted Companion in Mission

Tychicus is first mentioned in Acts 20:3–4, during Paul’s third missionary journey:

“Because some Jews had plotted against him just as he was about to sail for Syria, he decided to go back through Macedonia. He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy also, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.” (Acts 20:3–4, NIV)

Here, Tychicus is shown as part of Paul’s missionary team, which demonstrates his active involvement in evangelism and church planting. His presence among a group of trusted co-workers suggests he was dependable and spiritually mature.

2. A Faithful Minister and Messenger

Paul speaks very highly of Tychicus in his epistles, describing him as both a dear brother and a faithful servant in the Lord. Tychicus was often entrusted with delivering Paul’s letters and reporting on his condition—an indication of Paul’s deep trust in him.

Ephesians 6:21:

“Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing.” (NIV)

Colossians 4:7–8:

“Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts.” (NIV)

Theologically, this speaks to the New Testament model of ministry as a shared responsibility. Paul did not work alone; he relied on a team. Tychicus functioned much like a modern-day pastoral assistant or regional overseer, trusted to represent Paul’s authority and heart to various churches.

3. A Ministry Overseer and Church Leader

Paul not only used Tychicus for delivering letters but also assigned him to take over pastoral responsibilities in local churches. This implies that Tychicus had leadership abilities and was able to shepherd believers in Paul’s absence.

2 Timothy 4:12:

“I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.” (NIV)

Titus 3:12:

“As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, because I have decided to winter there.” (NIV)

In these passages, Paul appears to be rotating trustworthy leaders among congregations, showing a fluid and strategic leadership structure in the early church. Tychicus was considered qualified to provide stability and guidance—essential qualities for pastoral care and church oversight.

4. Theological Lessons from Tychicus’ Life

• Faithfulness in the Shadows: Though not famous, Tychicus demonstrates how God values faithful service—even when it’s behind the scenes. His ministry was vital but not flashy.
• Supportive Leadership: He reminds us that ministry is not only for apostles or public preachers but also for those who support, carry messages, and build up the body quietly.
• Trust and Accountability: Paul’s trust in Tychicus highlights the importance of character and reliability in church leadership.
• Encouragement as Ministry: Tychicus was sent “to encourage your hearts” (Col. 4:8)—a crucial reminder that pastoral care often involves emotional and spiritual support.

5. A Call to the Modern Church

Tychicus challenges modern believers and church leaders to reflect:
Are we raising up men and women like Tychicus—faithful, humble, servant-hearted, and committed to the mission of Christ?

In a world that celebrates prominence, the Church is reminded that Kingdom greatness is often found in hidden, loyal service.

Conclusion:

Though often overlooked, Tychicus is a model of faithful ministry. He shows us that you don’t need to be in the spotlight to make a significant impact in God’s Kingdom. His life calls us to be faithful stewards of whatever task God assigns—be it preaching, supporting, or simply encouraging others.

May God raise up more “Tychicuses” in our time—loyal to Christ, trustworthy in service, and devoted to the Church.

Print this post

Answer: Let’s take a deeper look…

Matthew 6:28–29 (ESV)
“And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies .

When Jesus says that the lilies “do not spin,” He’s referring to the ancient process of making clothing—specifically, spinning thread from fibers to weave into fabric. In biblical times, clothes were either spun or woven by hand, often laboriously. To “spin” was to twist fibers together to form yarn or thread—this was manual labor.

Exodus 39:28 (ESV)
“And the turban of fine linen, and the caps of fine linen, and the linen undergarments of fine twined linen.”

Leviticus 13:52 (ESV)
“And he shall burn the garment, whether the warp or the woof, in wool or linen, or any article made of skin that is diseased, for it is a persistent leprous disease. It shall be burned in the fire.”

These verses illustrate that human garments required great effort to produce. They involved either weaving (“warp and woof”) or spinning, and it took both skill and labor to produce fine clothing.

Now contrast that with the lilies of the field—wildflowers growing naturally in the open. They do none of this work. They don’t earn, labor, or spin. Yet God Himself clothes them in a splendor greater than even King Solomon, whose wealth and garments were legendary in Israel’s history.

This is the core of Jesus’ point: God provides for His creation without it having to strive, and He does it with beauty and abundance.

So if God clothes wildflowers—which are here today and gone tomorrow—with such glory, how much more will He care for His people, who are created in His image and called His children?

Theological Insight: God as Provider

Jesus is teaching what theologians call Divine Providence—the belief that God sovereignly provides for all of creation. Theologically, this echoes what is found in passages like:

Psalm 104:24 (ESV)
“O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”

Philippians 4:19 (ESV)
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Romans 8:32 (ESV)
“He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?”

Jesus is inviting His disciples—and us today—not to be consumed with anxiety about material needs (food, drink, clothing), but instead to trust God as a faithful Father who knows what His children need.

Matthew 6:30–33 (ESV)

“But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Spiritual Application

Worry is the fruit of unbelief. Jesus is calling us to a higher way of living—kingdom-minded living—where our first pursuit is not survival, wealth, or image, but the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. When we live in that posture of faith, provision follows.

Even if a believer goes through hardship or lack, it’s not abandonment—it may be a season of testing, a lesson in dependence, or preparation for greater purpose. But God will never forsake His own.

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)
“…for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

Conclusion:

When Jesus said “the lilies do not spin”, He wasn’t just pointing out a botanical fact. He was making a theological statement:

If your Heavenly Father clothes the lilies with such beauty, without their labor, then surely He will clothe and care for you—if only you’ll trust Him.

So don’t be anxious—be faithful. Seek His kingdom, and He will take care of your needs.

Feel free to share this message with others—it’s good news that can lift a heavy heart.

Print this post

Ecclesiastes 4:4 (ESV):

“Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.”

The Hebrew word “toil” (עָמָל), from which Amali is derived, generally refers to toilsome, burdensome labor—work that is not only physically draining but often emotionally and spiritually exhausting. It carries the idea of labor born out of struggle, and often in vain.

So, Ecclesiastes 4:4 can be paraphrased this way:

“Then I observed all the difficult and wearisome labor, and every impressive skill in work, and I saw that it often arises from rivalry or competition between one person and another. This too is meaningless—a chasing after the wind.”

Theological Reflection

Solomon, the writer of Ecclesiastes, recognized that many people’s hard work is not rooted in divine purpose, but in envy, ambition, and comparison. The implication is that even skillful work—if it is driven by jealousy or the desire to outdo others—is ultimately vain (hebel), which in Hebrew means empty, fleeting, or meaningless.

This does not mean that all hard work is sinful. In fact, Scripture elsewhere commends diligence and responsibility. However, when labor is disconnected from God, or fueled by carnal motives like greed or pride, it becomes vain toil, with no eternal value.

Ecclesiastes 4:8 (NIV):

“There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. ‘For whom am I toiling,’ he asked, ‘and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?’ This too is meaningless—a miserable business!”

This verse reveals the emptiness of labor when it lacks relational and eternal purpose. A person can work endlessly, yet never find fulfillment, because material success without spiritual alignment leads to emptiness.

Not All “toil” Is Evil

It’s important to clarify: Not all who labor hard do so from envy or sinful ambition.
Some people work with integrity, with good intentions, and with the fear of God. They seek to provide, to serve, or to fulfill a calling. For them, labor is a form of worship and stewardship.

And the Bible affirms this:

Ecclesiastes 5:19 (AMP):

“Also, every man to whom God has given riches and possessions, He has also given the power and ability to enjoy them and to receive his allotted portion and rejoice in his labor—this is the gift of God.”

Ecclesiastes 8:15 (NIV):

“So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.”

When our labor is surrendered to God, it becomes meaningful. God gives joy in the work of our hands when it is done with reverence and purpose.

Jesus Gives True Rest

If your work feels burdensome, if you’re exhausted mentally and physically, and you don’t see lasting fruit—turn to Jesus. He invites all who are weary to come to Him.

Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV):

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Psalm 127:2 (ESV):

“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.”

Conclusion

“toil” (toilsome labor) can be either vain or valuable—it depends on the heart behind it. Work done for selfish gain or comparison leads to emptiness. But work offered to God, with godly purpose, is rewarded with peace, joy, and eternal value.

May the Lord bless the work of your hands.
If you’ve been encouraged, please share this message with others—this is part of spreading the Good News.

Print this post

Understanding Romans 1:11 in Biblical and Theological Context

Key Verse:
“I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong.”
—Romans 1:11 (NIV)

Question:
What was the “spiritual gift” Apostle Paul promised the believers in Rome, and how was he planning to give it?

1. Singular, Not Plural: A Specific Gift in View

In Romans 1:11, Paul says “a spiritual gift” (singular), not “spiritual gifts” (plural). This distinction is important. He wasn’t promising to distribute various spiritual gifts like prophecy, tongues, or healing as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, because those gifts come directly from the Holy Spirit, not from a human minister.

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.”
—1 Corinthians 12:4 (NIV)

Theologically, Paul understood and taught that spiritual gifts are distributed by the Holy Spirit as He wills (1 Cor. 12:11). Therefore, Paul could not “give” spiritual gifts in that sense. So what did he mean?

2. Paul Meant to Bless Through His Own Spiritual Gift

What Paul was really saying is that he wanted to use the gift God had already placed in him to bless and strengthen the Roman believers. His goal was not to transfer his gift but to minister through it for their spiritual benefit.

This understanding aligns with Paul’s broader theology of the Body of Christ, where each member has different gifts and is called to use them for mutual edification.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.”
—Romans 12:6 (NIV)

“To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”
—1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV)

So, when Paul said he longed to impart a spiritual gift, he meant he wanted to minister using his apostolic and teaching gifts, strengthening their faith and deepening their understanding of the gospel.

3. “Imparting” as Serving Others Through Your Gift

The act of imparting is not mystical. It means allowing the gift within you to benefit others. When someone teaches, encourages, or prays with healing power, they are “imparting” their spiritual gift.

“If it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement.”
—Romans 12:7–8 (NIV)

Paul was practicing what he preached: use your gift to build others up in the faith. This is not a one-time transfer but an ongoing work of ministry.

4. Paul’s Broader Mission: All Peoples, All Nations

Paul’s desire to impart his gift wasn’t limited to the Romans. He had the same passion for Gentiles, Jews, Greeks, and non-Greeks:

“I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you… in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish.”
—Romans 1:13–14 (NIV)

This reflects Paul’s theology of universal mission—a calling to preach and build up all people through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

5. What About You? Are You Using Your Gift?

Every believer in Christ has received at least one spiritual gift (1 Peter 4:10, Romans 12:6–8). These gifts are not meant to be hidden but used to serve others and bring them closer to Christ.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
—1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

You may not be called like Paul, but your gift matters. Whether it’s encouragement, teaching, giving, or showing mercy—use it.

Conclusion:
Paul’s statement in Romans 1:11 is a beautiful reminder that spiritual gifts are meant to strengthen others, not glorify ourselves. Imparting a gift means serving others through what God has placed in you.

So ask yourself today:
Am I using my spiritual gift to build others in Christ?

May the Lord bless you as you walk in your calling.
Share this message with others to encourage them in their spiritual journey.

Print this post