THEY WORSHIPPED THE LORD AND SERVED THEIR OWN GODS
Shalom. Welcome, let us study the Bible together…
The children of Israel, after turning away from God for a long time, began to serve foreign gods. God removed them from their land and sent them into distant nations. Israel was taken to Babylon, and later Judah was taken to Assyria, leaving the land desolate.
When the king of Assyria saw the land was empty, he decided to bring people from neighboring and distant nations to live in the land of Israel, so that it would not remain uninhabited. However, these people lived there without knowing that it was a holy land, which should not be defiled. God sent wild animals like lions among them until they learned how to live according to the customs of that land.
Let us read:
2 Kings 17:23-33 (paraphrased)23 “So the Lord removed Israel from His presence, just as He had warned through all His servants the prophets. Israel was taken from their own land to Assyria, where they are to this day. 24 The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Kutha, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the cities of Samaria instead of the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its cities. 25 At first, they did not fear the Lord, so He sent lions among them, which killed some of them. 26 Then the king of Assyria commanded, ‘Bring one of the priests you took from there; let him live there and teach the people the customs of the God of the land.’ 27 So one of the priests went and lived in Bethel, teaching them how they should fear the Lord. 28 However, these people still worshiped their own gods, placing them in the high places of the towns where the Samaritans lived, each according to their own nation. 29 The people of Babylon made Succoth-Benoth their god, the people of Kutha worshiped Nergal, the people of Hamath worshiped Ashima,30 the Avvites worshiped Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, their gods. 32 They feared the Lord, but they also appointed others as priests in the high places to offer sacrifices to their own gods. 33 They worshiped the Lord, yet served their own gods, just as the nations they had been brought from did.”
2 Kings 17:23-33 (paraphrased)23 “So the Lord removed Israel from His presence, just as He had warned through all His servants the prophets. Israel was taken from their own land to Assyria, where they are to this day.
24 The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Kutha, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the cities of Samaria instead of the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its cities.
25 At first, they did not fear the Lord, so He sent lions among them, which killed some of them.
26 Then the king of Assyria commanded, ‘Bring one of the priests you took from there; let him live there and teach the people the customs of the God of the land.’
27 So one of the priests went and lived in Bethel, teaching them how they should fear the Lord.
28 However, these people still worshiped their own gods, placing them in the high places of the towns where the Samaritans lived, each according to their own nation.
29 The people of Babylon made Succoth-Benoth their god, the people of Kutha worshiped Nergal, the people of Hamath worshiped Ashima,30 the Avvites worshiped Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, their gods.
32 They feared the Lord, but they also appointed others as priests in the high places to offer sacrifices to their own gods.
33 They worshiped the Lord, yet served their own gods, just as the nations they had been brought from did.”
Notice verse 33: “They worshiped the Lord, yet served their own gods.”
This sentence shows that they did two things simultaneously—they honored God while continuing to serve other gods.
Why did they worship the Lord?It was to avoid being killed by the lions.
Why did they continue serving their own gods?Because they loved them and could not abandon their cultural and ancestral practices.
Thus, to survive in the land, to avoid being killed, they mixed practices: half devotion to God, half to idols; half giving tithes, half indulging in pleasures; half doing good, half doing evil; half serving the true God of Israel, half serving the gods of their ancestral nations. This brought long-term curse rather than blessing.
This pattern continues even today—inconsistency, lukewarmness. Half-hearted devotion: someone may appear as a Christian, faithfully attending church, paying tithes, serving God publicly, yet in their home or village they secretly honor ancestral spirits. They perform small sacrifices, keep traditions, or honor family gods, while outwardly appearing righteous. In their heart, they may fear and respect these gods more than the true God, continuing rituals from their ancestors.
Our Lord Jesus Christ warned against this lukewarmness:
Revelation 3:15-1715 “I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.”
Also:
2 Corinthians 6:14-1814 “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?15 What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?16 …We are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.’17 Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.18 I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters.”
Key points:
A Christian performing traditional rituals, sacrificing to the dead, or honoring ancestral gods is committing sin.
Seeking solutions from spirits, ancestral practices, or ritual sacrifices is detestable to God.
Christians may live among family who practice these things, but must not spiritually conform to them.
Practical guidance:
When you come to faith, make your stance clear to family and relatives. They should know you are a Christian.
At first, this may bring tension, opposition, or isolation. But in time, they will recognize your faithful stand.
Do not fear curses or witchcraft—God’s power protects you. You do not need to fight these in ritual or magic; simple refusal with faith is enough.
Remove unchristian objects and practices from your home.
Do not combine ancestral rituals with Christianity.
Remember, nowhere in Scripture is God associated with idols or saints; no Marian statue is to be worshiped.
Attempting to serve God and idols at the same time is spiritually adulterous. It is detestable and double-damaging.
May the Lord bless you
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God has given a powerful and unshakable promise to those who have chosen to forsake the world and follow Him with total surrender:
Isaiah 40:31, ESV “…but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” —
Isaiah 40:31, ESV
“…but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” —
This is not merely a poetic expression—it is a divine principle woven into the very fabric of the believer’s walk with God. The Lord knows the journey of salvation is not easy. As with Israel’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, there are mountains to climb and valleys to walk through. The road is marked by trials, opposition, and sacrifice.
In this life of faith, you may face rejection (John 15:18–19), ridicule (1 Peter 4:4), misunderstandings (Acts 26:24), contempt (Psalm 31:11), and seasons of deep lack (Philippians 4:12). You may be isolated, falsely accused, or experience personal loss (Job 1:13–19). Every genuine disciple will encounter hardship (2 Timothy 3:12).
Yet here is the mystery: true believers endure and even grow stronger in the midst of adversity. The Apostle Paul captures this paradox when he says:
2 Corinthians 4:16, ESV “…though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” —
2 Corinthians 4:16, ESV
“…though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” —
In the natural, hardship wears a person down. But for the one who has truly surrendered to Christ, trials do the opposite—they deepen our dependence on God. Why? Because strength is not drawn from human willpower but from a continual infusion of divine grace.
Isaiah describes the source of this strength:
Isaiah 40:28–31, NIV “Do you not know? Have you not heard?The LORD is the everlasting God,the Creator of the ends of the earth.He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding no one can fathom.He gives strength to the wearyand increases the power of the weak.Even youths grow tired and weary,and young men stumble and fall;but those who hope in the LORDwill renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.” —
Isaiah 40:28–31, NIV
“Do you not know? Have you not heard?The LORD is the everlasting God,the Creator of the ends of the earth.He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding no one can fathom.He gives strength to the wearyand increases the power of the weak.Even youths grow tired and weary,and young men stumble and fall;but those who hope in the LORDwill renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.” —
Without this supernatural renewal, no one could faithfully follow the unseen God for a lifetime. But those who truly wait upon Him—trusting His timing, leaning on His Word, and resting in His presence—find themselves continually refreshed. Their walk with God feels as fresh as the day they first believed.
This divine strength is what sets the believer apart from the unbeliever. A person without Christ may persevere in a career, education, or personal goal, but eventually they will tire, grow bored, or give up. They will say, “I need a break; I’ll come back to it later.”
By contrast, the one who has taken up their cross (Luke 9:23) finds that just when they are about to collapse, God renews their strength. The Holy Spirit revives their inner man (Ephesians 3:16).
When others expect your faith to fail, the Lord makes a way where there seems to be none (Isaiah 43:19). Some may say, “They won’t make it through the year.” Yet the years pass, and instead of drifting away, your love for God only grows deeper (Psalm 92:12–14).
If someone says, “I’m out of spiritual breath; I’ve been overcome by the temptations of the world,” it reveals that they never truly surrendered fully to Christ from the start.
The truth is, apart from the Spirit, you cannot overcome sin:
John 15:5, ESV “Apart from me you can do nothing.” —
John 15:5, ESV
“Apart from me you can do nothing.” —
You may wonder:
“If I get saved, can I remain sexually pure for the rest of my life?”
“Can I really quit alcohol, smoking, and other habits forever?”
“Can I stop going to nightclubs, avoid pornography, and abandon self-destructive behaviors?”
On your own, you cannot (Romans 7:18). But if you fully surrender to Christ, the Holy Spirit will empower you to overcome (Romans 8:13).
Before you reach the point of exhaustion, the Lord is already at your side, breathing new life into your spirit. Day by day, the desire for sinful pleasures fades until it is gone completely. This is the “grace upon grace” promised in John 1:16.
Even in seasons of sickness or affliction, He becomes your comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3–4) and your healer (Psalm 103:3). In times of joy, He multiplies your gladness (Psalm 16:11). This strength will sustain you until your race is finished (2 Timothy 4:7–8)—or until the Lord comes for His Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
For the sinner who rejects Christ, the future is entirely different. If you remain far from Him, telling yourself, “It’s impossible to live holy in today’s world,” you will likely say the same until you die in your sins.
Jesus warned:
“John 8:24, ESV I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” —
“John 8:24, ESV
I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” —
At the judgment, those from your own generation who overcame the very sins that enslaved you will testify—not to their own strength, but to the sustaining power of God (Revelation 12:11). You will have no excuse, for the same grace was available to you.
Do not let this grace pass you by. Stop calculating how to manage in your own effort. Decide today to repent. Right where you are, take a moment alone, kneel before God, confess your sins, and ask Him for forgiveness.
1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” —
1 John 1:9,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” —
When you do this sincerely, the blood of Jesus Christ will cleanse you completely (Hebrews 9:14). You will know it has happened because a supernatural peace will flood your heart (Philippians 4:7).
Then, deliberately turn from your old life—avoiding the people, places, and habits that once drew you into sin (2 Corinthians 6:17). When God sees that your repentance is genuine, He will pour His strength into you, enabling you to “mount up with wings like eagles.”
Once you have repented, take the next biblical step—baptism:
Acts 2:38, ESV “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” —
Acts 2:38, ESV
“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” —
Seek out a Bible-believing church where baptism is done by full immersion (John 3:23; Romans 6:4). Join a fellowship of strong believers (Hebrews 10:25), study the Word daily (Joshua 1:8), and maintain a life of prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). From there, the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).
Shalom.
THIS WORD IS HARD – WHO CAN HEAR IT?
We must be prepared to receive the hard words of Christ. His teachings are not always easy to accept, especially when they challenge our natural instincts, desires, or understanding.
Not everything that the Lord spoke was comfortable or convenient. Many of His words were meant to stretch faith, test obedience, and reveal the cost of discipleship.
Consider what He told His disciples:
Matthew 10:37-39 (ESV)“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.And whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Here, Christ emphasizes the supreme claim of God on our lives. Loving Him above family, ambitions, or even life itself is not optional for a true disciple. The “cross” symbolizes suffering, sacrifice, and the total surrender of self in following Jesus (see Luke 14:27). At the time, no one could imagine that He Himself would bear the ultimate cross on Calvary, naked and despised. Yet He spoke of it as the path of obedience and life.
In human terms, His words seem extreme, like telling someone today, “If you want to serve in government, carry a live bomb every day and be ready to sacrifice your life at any moment.” It seems absurd—but this is the radical call of Christ.
Theologically, the cross is not only a symbol of suffering but a means of identification with Christ (Philippians 3:10). To take up our cross is to willingly participate in His mission, trusting that loss in the present is gain in the eternal kingdom.
Another challenging teaching comes from the Bread of Life discourse:
John 6:53-56 (ESV)“So Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.’”
These words startled many. Theologically, Jesus was speaking of spiritual union with Him through faith and, ultimately, the sacrament of Holy Communion (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). To “eat His flesh and drink His blood” is to fully partake in His life, death, and resurrection, not a literal cannibalistic act. Such a statement challenged both Jewish dietary laws and common sense.
John 6:60-63 (ESV)“Many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, ‘This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?’But Jesus, knowing in Himself that His disciples murmured at this, said to them, ‘Does this offend you?What then if you were to see the Son of Man ascending where He was before?It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is of no avail. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.’”
Here, Christ explains that His words are Spirit and life, meaning they are not always to be understood in a purely human, literal sense but through the lens of faith and the work of the Holy Spirit. Even today, the call to follow Him may not come with full explanations immediately. Obedience is required first; understanding comes as we walk with Him (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The apostles exemplified this principle. When Jesus called them, they were simply told: “Follow me” (Matthew 4:19). They left everything, obeyed without full understanding, and became the pillars of the Church (Acts 2). Some could not endure the hard words and fell away; others remained steadfast and experienced Pentecost, receiving the Spirit’s empowering presence.
Abraham provides another model of obedience under mystery. He was commanded to offer his son Isaac (Hebrews 11:17-19). Even though the act seemed impossible and extreme, he trusted God’s promise. God honored his faith, and Isaac’s life was preserved—foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, through whom all God’s promises are fulfilled.
Practical application for us today:
When Christ asks us to let go of certain things—relationships, possessions, habits—do not hesitate or overthink. Obedience comes first.
When His instructions seem difficult or unreasonable, trust in His Spirit to guide and sustain you.
Understand that following Jesus may involve temporary loss, suffering, or misunderstanding, but the ultimate gain is eternal life (Luke 9:23-24).
Christ’s words are Spirit and life. They may be hard to hear, but they are true. Accept losing your life for Him today, trusting that in His timing, you will find it forever.
May the Lord Jesus bless you and strengthen your faith in every step of obedience.
THE FIG TREE WITH LEAVES
Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study God’s Word. Today, we focus on a lesson entitled: “The Fig Tree with Leaves.” At first, the meaning may not be clear, but if you stay with me until the end, I assure you that a profound spiritual truth will be revealed.
Before Jesus sat with His disciples on the Mount of Olives to teach them about the end times, He performed a small but deliberate act that conveyed a larger lesson. He cursed a fig tree.
As He left Bethany in the morning to go to the temple, He saw a fig tree along the way. (The fig tree is a tree that produces figs.)
Mark 11:12-14 (KJV) says: “And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:13 And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.14 And Jesus answered and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And his disciples heard it.”
Mark 11:12-14 (KJV) says:
“And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:13 And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.14 And Jesus answered and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And his disciples heard it.”
At first glance, it may seem that Jesus acted in error, because the tree was not yet in season to bear figs. But His act was purposeful, a prophetic sign meant to teach His disciples—and future generations—a spiritual principle about judgment, readiness, and the timing of God’s plan.
Theological Insight:The fig tree in Scripture often symbolizes Israel (see Hosea 9:10, Jeremiah 24:1-10) and, more broadly, the nations. Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree foreshadows the coming judgment upon fruitlessness and unrepentant hearts (Matthew 21:18-22). It reminds us that outward appearances (leaves) do not equal spiritual fruitfulness.
In Matthew 24, Jesus used the fig tree to illustrate the end times. He explained to His disciples that certain events would signal that the time of harvest—the culmination of God’s redemptive plan—was near:
Matthew 24:32-35 (KJV):“Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”
When the fig tree sprouts leaves, the harvest is near. Likewise, when the prophetic signs of the end times appear—wars, natural disasters, moral decay, false prophets, and the spread of the Gospel—we should recognize that the return of Christ is near.
Additional Theological Detail:The “generation” Jesus refers to in Matthew 24:34 has been interpreted in two main ways:
Contemporary generation: Some scholars argue it refers to the generation alive when the end signs begin.
Symbolic generation: Others interpret it as the last generation of humanity, which will witness the full unfolding of the end-time signs. Either way, the lesson is clear: God’s timing is precise, and spiritual vigilance is required.
A fig tree undergoes three main stages:
Shedding old leaves (symbolizing barrenness or judgment)
Sprouting new leaves (symbolizing opportunity, revival, or emerging signs)
Bearing fruit (symbolizing fulfillment, harvest, and reward)
Revelation 6:12-13 (KJV) uses the imagery of a fig tree to describe cosmic upheaval: “…and the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.”
Revelation 6:12-13 (KJV) uses the imagery of a fig tree to describe cosmic upheaval:
“…and the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.”
The falling stars symbolize the shaking of nations and spiritual powers in the end times. Just as a fig tree sheds its leaves before producing fruit, the world undergoes a period of apparent barrenness before the final harvest.
Application:Jesus delayed the visible harvest of signs for centuries, so that the early disciples would not see all events completed in their lifetime. But from the 20th century onwards, these signs have manifested clearly: world wars, natural disasters, epidemics (HIV/AIDS, Ebola, Zika), and moral decline, fulfilling biblical prophecy.
Jesus said in
Luke 21:28 (KJV): “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”
Luke 21:28 (KJV):
“And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”
The harvest time—the culmination of God’s plan—is near. Those who are saved should rejoice because their redemption is at hand. But for those still in sin, urgent action is required.
Call to Action:
Repent and turn to Christ while there is still time (Acts 3:19).
Seek fellowship with fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Remove sinful habits and pursue holiness (2 Corinthians 7:1).
Trust in God to fill you with the Holy Spirit, who empowers you to bear lasting spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).
We live in the time of the fig tree sprouting leaves. The harvest is near. Let us wake up, prepare our hearts, and be fruitful for God’s kingdom.
May the Lord bless you and keep you steadfast in these last days.
Joel 3:14–16 (NIV)“Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.The sun and moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine.The Lord will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem; the earth and the heavens will tremble. But the Lord will be a refuge for his people, a stronghold for the people of Israel.”
The prophet Joel foresaw a time when God would gather the nations for judgment in a place called the Valley of Decision, also referred to as the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Joel 3:12). The name Jehoshaphat means “Yahweh judges,” reminding us that this valley is not merely geographical—it is prophetic. It represents the moment when God Himself will deliver a final, irreversible verdict on the nations.
This corresponds with the climactic battle described in Revelation 16:16 (ESV):“And they assembled them at the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.”
Thus, the Valley of Decision is ultimately linked to the final confrontation between the kingdoms of this world and the kingdom of Christ.
The term “decision” here implies a final settlement, the closing of all arguments. Just as a human judge puts an end to disputes by issuing a binding judgment, so God will silence every voice—both the cries of His saints and the mockery of unbelievers.
This reveals God’s dual role: He is both a refuge for His people (Joel 3:16) and a righteous Judge of the wicked (Psalm 96:13).
God’s people groan under the weight of injustice and wickedness in the world, crying, “How long, Lord?”
Revelation 6:9–10 (KJV):“And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God… And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?”
This longing for justice reflects God’s promise that He will one day “wipe every tear” from the eyes of His people (Revelation 21:4).
Meanwhile, the ungodly mock God’s patience, mistaking it for weakness.
2 Peter 3:3–4 (NIV) warns:“In the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, ‘Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.’”
Yet Peter reminds us that God’s delay is not forgetfulness but mercy:
“(2 Peter 3:9, NIV) The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance”
“(2 Peter 3:9, NIV)
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance”
Both voices—the cry of the saints and the scoffing of the wicked—will be answered decisively in the Valley of Decision.
Joel, Amos, and Jesus Himself foretold cosmic disturbances that will precede Christ’s return:
Joel 3:15 (NIV): “The sun and moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine.” Amos 8:9 (KJV): “I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day.” Matthew 24:29 (ESV): “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”
Joel 3:15 (NIV): “The sun and moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine.”
Amos 8:9 (KJV): “I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day.”
Matthew 24:29 (ESV): “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”
These cosmic signs signal that human history as we know it is about to close, and Christ will be revealed in glory.
Revelation paints a majestic picture of Christ’s return:
Revelation 19:11–16 (NIV):“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war… His name is the Word of God… On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Unlike His first coming in humility as the Lamb of God, His second coming will be in majesty as the Lion of Judah. He will strike down the nations with the sword of His mouth (His Word), reminding us that God’s spoken Word is the ultimate authority (Hebrews 4:12).
After Christ defeats the armies gathered against Him, He will separate the righteous from the wicked:
Matthew 25:31–33 (ESV):“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.”
The wicked will be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15), while the righteous will inherit the kingdom and reign with Christ for a thousand years (Revelation 20:4–6).
Isaiah gives a chilling description of how rare survivors will be:
Isaiah 13:12 (NIV): “I will make people scarcer than pure gold, more rare than the gold of Ophir.”
Just as only Noah and his family were saved in the flood, so only a remnant will survive the coming judgment. Salvation has never been about numbers—it has always been about faith and obedience to God (Romans 9:27).
For the redeemed, however, the Valley of Decision is not a place of fear but of vindication. God promises that He will be a refuge for His people (Joel 3:16). Those who belong to Christ will not face His wrath, for “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1, NIV).
This is why the gospel is urgent. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Beloved, the world is racing toward the Valley of Decision. Nations already align against Israel, fulfilling biblical prophecy (Zechariah 12:2–3). But the real decision is not made on that day—it is made now, in your heart.
Joshua’s challenge remains true today:
Joshua 24:15 (KJV): “Choose you this day whom ye will serve… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The Valley of Decision should not be your destiny. You can choose Christ now and find refuge in Him. Surrender to Him today, and He will make you a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
May the Lord keep you safe in His truth until that great day.
(Romans 6:23)
Jesus declared:
John 8:34–35, NKJV) “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.”
John 8:34–35, NKJV)
“Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.”
Sin is not just breaking rules—it is bondage. Adam and Eve’s first act of disobedience enslaved all humanity (Romans 5:12). Since then, sin has ruled over mankind like a cruel master. Unlike earthly employers, sin never pays with blessings—its wages are always death.
Just as an ox may labor its whole life only to end up slaughtered, so too sin uses people and discards them in destruction.
The Apostle Paul writes:
Romans 6:23, NKJV) “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, NKJV)
Romans 6:23, NKJV)
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, NKJV)
Physical Death – Sin brought mortality into the human race (Genesis 3:19). Every grave is a testimony to sin’s reign.
Spiritual Death – Sin separates us from God: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” (Isaiah 59:2, NKJV)
Eternal Death – If unrepented, sin ends in everlasting separation from God in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14–15).
This threefold death is the terrible “payment” sin always gives.
James warns us:
“James 1:14–15, ESV) Each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”
“James 1:14–15, ESV)
Each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”
Sin often looks harmless—sometimes even pleasurable (Hebrews 11:25). The world normalizes sin, calling it “freedom” or “modern living.” People say:
“Casual relationships are normal.”
“A little alcohol won’t hurt.”
“Divorce is just a fresh start.”
“Clubbing is just fun.”
But the Bible says otherwise:
“Isaiah 5:20, NKJV) Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness.”
“Isaiah 5:20, NKJV)
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness.”
The so-called pleasures of sin are baited traps. They enslave and finally destroy.
Adultery and Fornication: “Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality… will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9–10, ESV). These sins often bring disease, broken homes, and even sudden death.
Idolatry and Witchcraft: These open doors to demonic bondage and eternal damnation (Deuteronomy 18:10–12).
Disobedience to Parents: “Honor your father and mother… that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” (Ephesians 6:2–3, ESV). To dishonor parents invites shortened life.
Greed, Bribery, and Corruption: “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (1 Timothy 6:10, NKJV).
Even if a sinner prospers for a time, death is waiting.
Scripture says:Ecclesiastes 8:8, ESV) “No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death.” (Ecclesiastes 8:8, ESV)
Scripture says:Ecclesiastes 8:8, ESV)
“No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death.” (Ecclesiastes 8:8, ESV)
Death is like sleep—you never know the moment it arrives. Many say, “I will repent later,” but tomorrow is not promised (Proverbs 27:1). Jesus told of the rich fool who planned for many years ahead, yet God said: “Fool! This night your soul is required of you.” (Luke 12:20, ESV).
God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. He says:
Ezekiel 33:11, ESV “As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live.”
Ezekiel 33:11, ESV
“As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live.”
This is why He sent His Son:“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, NKJV).
Through Jesus Christ, we are offered freedom from sin’s slavery and the gift of eternal life.
Hell is real. It is the final destination for all who reject Christ:
“(Revelation 20:14, ESV). Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
“(Revelation 20:14, ESV).
Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
But heaven is also real, and Christ offers eternal life to all who repent and believe in Him. Now is the time:
“(2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV) Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
“(2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV)
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
The Bible is clear: “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, NKJV).
Sin leads to slavery.
Sin pays with death.
But Christ offers freedom and eternal life.
Today, choose life by turning to Jesus Christ. Receive His grace, be cleansed by His blood, and walk in the newness of life (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Maranatha—our Lord is coming soon!
“I Did Not Come to Bring Peace on Earth, but Division”
Why did the Lord Jesus say, “I did not come to bring peace on earth, but division”?
Luke 12:51-53 (NIV):“Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three.They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”
Compare this with:
John 14:27 (NIV):“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
At first glance, these statements may seem contradictory. On one hand, Jesus says He did not come to bring peace on earth; on the other, He promises peace. Understanding this requires spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). Without the Spirit’s guidance, Scripture can seem confusing. But with the Spirit, we understand both the inner peace of salvation and the division it may bring in relationships.
When a sinner decides to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, two key realities emerge in their life:
Inner Peace Through the Holy Spirit:
The believer experiences a profound, supernatural peace in the heart, even amid external turmoil.
This peace is not like worldly peace, which depends on circumstances (John 14:27). Instead, it is a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), brought by the indwelling Holy Spirit (Romans 5:1).
A person may feel lightness, hope, and joy replacing fear and despair. This is the peace of God anchoring the soul, giving confidence and spiritual stability even in trials (Isaiah 26:3; Colossians 3:15).
Loss of External Peace:
As the believer grows in faith, relationships may change. Friends or family who continue in sin may reject, oppose, or resent the believer.
This external conflict fulfills Jesus’ words in Luke 12:51-53: the gospel can divide families because allegiance to Christ takes priority over human relationships (Matthew 10:34-37).
However, this division does not negate the inner peace of salvation; it is a necessary cost of discipleship.
Jesus warned His followers that following Him involves sacrifice:
Leaving sin often means losing the approval of those once close to us (Romans 12:2).
Following Christ may bring misunderstanding, criticism, or even persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).
Yet, the believer’s inner peace remains secure, rooted in God’s promises and the indwelling Spirit (John 16:33; Romans 8:38-39).
Key Principle: The cost of entering into true peace with God is sometimes the loss of peace with the world. But this temporary loss pales in comparison to the eternal joy and security found in Christ (Matthew 19:29).
Even amid external division, the believer’s heart can remain joyful, steadfast, and confident in Christ (Psalm 16:11).Spiritual maturity involves learning to prioritize God’s peace over worldly comfort, trusting that God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).Let us embrace the inner peace Christ offers, understanding that opposition may come—but our hearts can rest securely in Him.
May the Lord help us not to avoid these costs, and may we overcome every challenge through the Name of Jesus Christ.
Blessings.
HE IS READY TO RISE FROM HELL
Who is this “He existed, is not now, and is ready to rise from hell”?
Shalom! May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified forever. As believers, we must always remember that each new day brings us one step closer to the culmination of God’s plan. The major signs of the end times have already been fulfilled, and at any moment, we may witness the rapture of the Church. Those who remain will witness the rise of the Antichrist and the outpouring of God’s wrath as described in Revelation 16:1-21 (ESV).
We must remain vigilant and possess spiritual discernment to recognize Satan’s schemes. Sadly, many still assume the Antichrist will appear as an extraordinary individual from an unknown place. In truth, his work has been ongoing for centuries, gradually bringing destruction. The same system and methods that have brought suffering in the past will produce the great tribulation in the last days.
As Scripture reminds us:Ecclesiastes 1:9 (ESV): “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.”
The Antichrist’s actions are not new—they are a continuation of a historical pattern. What was done in the past will be repeated in the end times. Just as we eagerly await the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13), we must understand that the Antichrist will operate within the same kingdom and power structures that have been active since the early Church. Therefore, do not focus on sensational or unprecedented signs, nor expect him to come from outside these established powers.
In Revelation 17, John is shown the woman called the “great harlot,” seated on the scarlet beast:
Revelation 17:1-14 (ESV)1 Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great prostitute who is seated on many waters,2 with whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and with the wine of whose fornication the dwellers on earth have become drunk.”3 And he carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness, and I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast, full of blasphemous names, with seven heads and ten horns.4 The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, jewels, and pearls, holding in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the impurities of her sexual immorality.5 On her forehead was written a name of mystery: “Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and of Earth’s Abominations.”6 I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. When I saw her, I marveled greatly.7 But the angel said to me, “Why do you marvel? I will tell you the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and ten horns.8 The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to rise from the bottomless pit and go to destruction. And the dwellers on earth, whose names have not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, will marvel to see the beast, because it was and is not and is to come.9 This calls for a mind with wisdom: the seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman is seated.10 They are also seven kings, five of whom have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come, and when he comes, he must remain only a little while.11 As for the beast that was and is not, it is an eighth but belongs to the seven, and it goes to destruction.12 The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received royal power, but they will receive authority as kings for one hour, together with the beast.13 These are of one mind, and they hand over their power and authority to the beast.14 They will make war on the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.
The Blood of the SaintsThe woman is described as drunk with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus. This symbolizes organized systems of religion and power that persecute God’s faithful (cf. Revelation 6:9-11, Daniel 7:25). The bloodshed is not her doing alone—the beast beneath her aids her. This illustrates the spiritual reality that evil operates through systems, not just individuals.
The Beast “Was, Is Not, and Will Come”This phrase (Revelation 17:8) shows continuity in the work of the Antichrist. Historically, the Roman Empire persecuted the early Church and destroyed Jerusalem in AD 70, fulfilling Christ’s prophecy (Matthew 24:2, 24:34). Later, under the papal system, millions of faithful Christians were martyred for refusing to accept unbiblical doctrines (John 16:2). The Antichrist’s work is a continuation of this historical pattern.
The Ten HornsThe ten horns represent future global powers or rulers who will align with the Antichrist (Daniel 7:23-24, Revelation 17:12). This illustrates how the Antichrist will leverage both religious and political systems to enforce allegiance and persecute those who resist.
Historical Context and WarningNo other system in history has persecuted God’s people on the scale of Rome and the Roman Church. Punishments included death for heresy and total control over Scripture. Ordinary believers were forbidden to study the Bible independently. This historical pattern helps us recognize that evil works through institutions, not just individuals.
Urgency for SalvationThe Bible warns that the last days will be perilous (2 Timothy 3:1-5, Matthew 24:21-22). Every creature senses the shortness of time, and Satan intensifies his work. Repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38), and receiving the Holy Spirit are essential for protection and guidance.
We live in dangerous times. The beast “was, is not, and is ready to rise from hell.” The same powers that persecuted the saints in the past will rise again to enforce the mark and bring global tribulation. The Antichrist will emerge through religious and political systems, aligning nations to oppose Christ and His Church.
If you are not yet saved, do not delay. Repent of your sins, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. He will guide you into all truth until the day of the Rapture (John 14:1-3, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
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Blessings in Christ.
ANOTHER SIGN THAT IDENTIFIES THE SEED OF THE SERPENT
Shalom, beloved of God.Welcome again as we reflect on the Word of God. Today, we’ll consider a striking characteristic that identifies those who belong to what Scripture calls “the seed of the serpent” — a lineage not of physical descent, but of spiritual rebellion (Genesis 3:15).
The Bible tells us that some people continue in deliberate sin despite knowing God’s righteous decree. They are aware that those who practice such things deserve death, and yet not only do they continue in them, they even approve of others who do the same. Paul describes this sobering reality in
Romans 1:32 (ESV): “Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.”
Romans 1:32 (ESV):
“Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.”
This spiritual deadness is a clear sign of those who resist the truth, suppressing it for the sake of their own desires. Let us now look at a powerful biblical example that demonstrates how such rebellion can persist, even in the face of divine revelation.
“Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it.His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow.And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men.” (v.11–15)“Some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place.And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers and said,‘Tell people, “His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.”And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.’So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day.”
“Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it.His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow.And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men.”
(v.11–15)“Some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place.And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers and said,‘Tell people, “His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.”And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.’So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day.”
The guards at the tomb experienced a supernatural event that left them physically paralyzed — “like dead men.” The presence of the angel and the shaking of the earth were visible signs of God’s power. And yet, despite seeing with their own eyes the reality of Jesus’ resurrection, they chose to accept bribes and spread lies.
This is not just historical betrayal — it reflects a spiritual truth. These men saw the truth and rejected it. Jesus described such people in
John 3:19–20 (ESV): “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.”
John 3:19–20 (ESV):
“And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.”
The seed of the serpent operates under this spirit of rebellion. Even when faced with overwhelming evidence of God’s power, they will suppress the truth for the sake of worldly gain — as did Judas, and as did the guards.
Contrast this with Saul of Tarsus (later Paul). Like the guards, Saul encountered a supernatural vision of Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3–6). But unlike the guards, he responded with repentance and transformation. He became a servant of the very Jesus he had persecuted.This is the difference between the seed of God and the seed of the serpent: the former is marked by humility, repentance, and obedience, while the latter is marked by stubbornness, deceit, and love of the world.
There are many today who have had powerful encounters with God:
Some have seen visions or had vivid dreams of Christ.
Others have been rescued from death or delivered from impossible situations.
Some have received answers to prayers in ways that can only be explained by divine intervention.
These individuals wept, trembled, and promised to follow God forever. But just a short time later, some return to sin, forsaking the vows they made in fear and awe.
This proves a crucial point: signs and wonders alone do not produce true conversion. Jesus Himself said in
Luke 16:31 (ESV): “If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.”
Luke 16:31 (ESV):
“If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.”
Even the greatest miracles will not change a heart that is not willing to submit to God.
That’s why Jesus said to Thomas in
John 20:29 (ESV): “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
John 20:29 (ESV):
“Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Faith that rests solely on experiences or emotions can fade. But faith grounded in the Word of God and rooted in the fear of the Lord endures.
Friend, perhaps you’re still living in rebellion, though God has revealed Himself to you in unmistakable ways.Don’t assume you will keep getting chances. There is a limit to how many times the Holy Spirit will convict before He departs.
Jesus gave a stern warning in Matthew 11:21–24, saying that the cities of Tyre, Sidon, and even Sodom would fare better on the Day of Judgment than the towns that witnessed His miracles but did not repent.That warning applies to us, too. If you have seen God’s hand and still turn away, your judgment may be more severe than that of those who never knew.
God does not call you to repentance to rob you of joy — He calls because He loves you.He desires that none should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).He calls you away from hell — not to harm you, but to save you.
So repent. Be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38). Begin living a life of true salvation in this short time we have left before the return of Christ.
Don’t let yourself become part of the seed of the serpent — those who see the truth but resist it. I believe you are different. I believe that today, you will hear this message, repent, and turn fully to Christ.
Be blessed, and please share this message with others.The Lord will surely bless you as you do.