Blessed be the name of the Lord, Jesus.
The Bible highlights significant moments in the life of Jesus, including His death, burial, and resurrection. These events carry deep theological meanings and teach us powerful lessons. One such moment is the anointing of Jesus with ointment, which is seen in various passages of Scripture. To understand this better, it is important to distinguish between Ointment and Perfume.
In Jewish tradition, ointment (often referred to as “spices” or “myrrh”) was used to anoint the body of a deceased person, typically as part of the burial process. Perfume (or “fragrance”) could also be used, but it wasn’t in liquid form as the ointment was. Anointing with ointment was not only a physical preparation but also had symbolic significance expressing respect, honor, and the sanctification of the body.
According to Jewish custom, before a body was buried, it was anointed, especially the head, with ointment. However, we see something unusual in the burial of Jesus. While Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus followed some burial customs, they did not anoint Jesus with the usual ointment.
John 19:38-40 (NIV) states:
“Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. [39] He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. [40] Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.”
“Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away.
[39] He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.
[40] Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.”
Joseph and Nicodemus brought myrrh and aloes, which are typically used for burial, but notably, they did not use the Ointment that would have been customary. The Ointment was traditionally applied to the head, and while we see them applying Perfume/spices, they are not performing the complete burial ritual.
The women who followed Jesus, including Mary Magdalene and others, were prepared to anoint His body with Ointment after the Sabbath had passed. They were deeply saddened by His death, and they wanted to express their love and honor for Him by following the burial practices. However, they were delayed because of the Sabbath restrictions.
Luke 23:54-56 (NIV) says:
[54]”It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. [55]The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how His body was laid in it. [56]Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.”
[54]”It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. [55]The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how His body was laid in it.
[56]Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.”
The Sabbath was sacred, and according to the Jewish law (Exodus 20:8-11), no work was allowed on the Sabbath. Therefore, the women could not carry out the anointing immediately. They had to wait until the first day of the week, when the Sabbath was over. This highlights both their devotion and their adherence to Jewish customs.
When the women finally arrived at the tomb on Sunday morning, they discovered that Jesus had risen. This moment brings us to one of the key theological points: the timing of when we offer service and devotion to the Lord is crucial. The women came with their ointments and perfumes, but when they arrived, they found that their act of devotion was no longer needed in the same way. Jesus had already defeated death.
Luke 24:1-3 (NIV) says:
“On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. [2]They found the stone rolled away from the tomb ,[3] but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.”
“On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb.
[2]They found the stone rolled away from the tomb
,[3] but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.”
Theological significance: The anointing of Jesus was meant to prepare Him for burial (Matthew 26:12), but after His resurrection, the ritual became irrelevant. The ultimate sacrifice had already been made Jesus had conquered death, and He was now alive. This is a pivotal point in Christian theology: Jesus’ resurrection symbolizes victory over death and sin (Romans 6:9-10). The rituals associated with death are no longer necessary because He has overcome death.
In contrast, there was a woman who anointed Jesus before His death. Mary of Bethany is noted for anointing Jesus with expensive perfume (John 12:3). This act was both symbolic and prophetic. She anointed Jesus in preparation for His burial. Jesus Himself acknowledged that she had done this in the appropriate time.
Matthew 26:6-13 (NIV) records:
[6]While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, [7]a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table. [8]When the disciples saw this, they were indignant, ‘Why this waste?’ they asked. [9]’This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’Aware of this, [10]Jesus said to them, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. [11]The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. [12)When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. [13]Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.'”
[6]While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper,
[7]a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table.
[8]When the disciples saw this, they were indignant, ‘Why this waste?’ they asked.
[9]’This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’Aware of this,
[10]Jesus said to them, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.
[11]The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.
[12)When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.
[13]Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.'”
Jesus highlighted the significance of her act: She anointed Him at the right time, in preparation for His burial. Theological takeaway: Timing is crucial when it comes to honoring God. Mary’s act of worship was a prophetic symbol of Jesus’ impending death, and it was a meaningful preparation for what was to come. Jesus’ statement that “wherever the gospel is preached” will also include her story signifies the importance of worshiping at the right time in alignment with God’s will.
After Jesus’ resurrection, when the disciples entered the tomb, they noticed something significant: the burial cloths were left behind, and the headcloth was folded neatly and placed aside. This simple act holds deep theological meaning. The folded cloth is symbolic of Jesus’ victory over death and the fact that His work was complete but not finished. There is still a purpose for the folded cloth: it will be used again.
John 20:6-7 (NIV) says:
[6]”Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, [7] as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.”
[6]”Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there,
[7] as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.”
Theologically, the folded cloth indicates that while Jesus’ work on earth was complete, there was more to come. He had completed His earthly mission of redemption (John 19:30), but the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation was just beginning with His resurrection. The folded cloth was a symbol of hope—Jesus had risen, and the work of salvation was now in full effect.
There is a time and place for everything when it comes to serving and honoring God. The women who came to anoint Jesus did so with good intentions, but they arrived too late. Jesus had already risen. The right time to serve and worship the Lord is now not tomorrow or in the future, but today. Don’t wait for a “better” time to give your time, resources, or energy to the Lord.
In the same way, Mary of Bethany’s act of anointing Jesus before His death was timely, prophetic, and an act of profound worship. She recognized the significance of the moment and responded in faith and obedience.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) reminds us:
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Jesus said, “You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me” (Matthew 26:11). The work of the Lord is not always available opportunities to serve God may come and go. Make the most of the time you have to honor and serve Him.
As you live out your faith, remember that the timing of your devotion to the Lord is essential. Serve Him today, and don’t wait for tomorrow, because tomorrow may be too late.
Maranatha!
1) What is Perfume
Perfume It is used to make things smell pleasant and to ward off insects and pests. The Bible frequently references perfumes, especially in connection with sacred rituals, offerings, and acts of reverence.
In the Bible, perfume is sometimes used to symbolize devotion, sacrifice, and honor. A well-known instance is when a woman poured an expensive perfume on Jesus’ head. This act of worship and reverence became a significant moment in Jesus’ ministry.
Mathew 26:6-13 (NIV):[6]”While Jesus was in Bethany, in the home of Simon the Leper, [7]a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. [8]When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. ‘Why this waste?’ they asked. [‘9]This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’ Aware of this, [10]Jesus said to them, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. [11]The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. [12]When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. [13]Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.'”
Mathew 26:6-13 (NIV):[6]”While Jesus was in Bethany, in the home of Simon the Leper,
[7]a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.
[8]When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. ‘Why this waste?’ they asked.
[‘9]This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’ Aware of this,
[12]When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.
[13]Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.'”
The expensive perfume was a symbol of her deep love and devotion. In Jewish culture, perfumes were also used in burial rites, signifying respect for the deceased. In this context, the woman was unknowingly preparing Jesus for His death, emphasizing that her act of love was prophetic.
Another mention of perfume is when Mary Magdalene and other women prepared spices and perfumes to anoint Jesus’ body after His crucifixion, showing their reverence for Him even after His death.
Luke 23:56 (NIV):“Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.”
The act of preparing the perfumes for His body reflects the tradition of honoring the dead, which in this case, also pointed to Jesus’ fulfillment of the ultimate sacrifice for humanity. The perfume in these instances symbolizes not just physical fragrance, but spiritual reverence and devotion.
2) What Are Incense
Incense, refers to aromatic substances that are typically burned to produce fragrance. Incense was commonly used in ancient religious practices as part of offerings and rituals to honor God. In the Old Testament, God commanded the Israelites to burn incense as part of their worship in the Tabernacle and later the Temple.
Exodus 30:34-38 (NIV) describes the preparation of incense for the Tabernacle:“[34]Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take fragrant spices,gum resin, onycha and galbanum,and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts, and [ 35] make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer. It is to be salted and pure and sacred. [36]Grind some of it to powder and place it in front of the Ark of the Covenant law in the tent of meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you. [37]Do not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; consider it holy to the Lord.[ 38] Whoever makes incense like it to enjoy its fragrance must be cut off from their people.'”
Exodus 30:34-38 (NIV) describes the preparation of incense for the Tabernacle:“[34]Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take fragrant spices,gum resin, onycha and galbanum,and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts, and [
35] make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer. It is to be salted and pure and sacred.
[36]Grind some of it to powder and place it in front of the Ark of the Covenant law in the tent of meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you.
[37]Do not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; consider it holy to the Lord.[
38] Whoever makes incense like it to enjoy its fragrance must be cut off from their people.'”
This incense, which includes frankincense was seen as sacred, a way of offering prayers to God. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of God’s people ascending to Him.
Revelation 8:3-4 (NIV) also refers to incense in a spiritual context:“Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden altar in front of the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God’s people, went up before God from the angel’s hand.”
This verse demonstrates how incense in heaven is used as a metaphor for the prayers of the saints, indicating that incense is not just a physical offering but also represents the spiritual devotion and prayers of believers.
Incense like perfume, is associated with the worship of God. It is symbolic of our prayers and sacrifices being offered to God in love and reverence. Just as the burning of incense was integral to the Old Testament worship, it continues to symbolize our ongoing relationship with God, with our prayers rising to Him like the sweet fragrance of incense.
Both marhamu and manukato have deep theological significance. In the Bible, they are symbols of devotion, sacrifice, and honor. Whether it’s the woman pouring perfume on Jesus’ head, or the incense that rises with the prayers of believers, these fragrant substances remind us of the importance of worship and reverence in our relationship with God.
Please share this good news with others.
Many people use these terms interchangeably, but biblically, each one refers to a specific concept or location related to life after death. Here’s a clear and scripturally backed explanation of each:
Definition: The eternal dwelling place of God, His angels, and ultimately, the redeemed. It is often referred to as the Third Heaven, the highest realm.
The Apostle Paul described being caught up to the third heaven, a realm of indescribable glory:
“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven… and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter.”— 2 Corinthians 12:2–4 (ESV)
It is where Jesus ascended to after His resurrection and where He prepares an eternal home for believers:
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”— John 14:2 (ESV)
God’s transcendence is affirmed in:
“But will God indeed dwell with man on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you…”— 2 Chronicles 6:18 (ESV)
Summary: Heaven is the ultimate and eternal destination for those in Christ — a place of complete joy, peace, and the presence of God.
Definition: Paradise refers to an intermediate, blissful state where the souls of believers go after death while awaiting the resurrection of their bodies and final entrance into Heaven.
Jesus told the repentant thief:
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”— Luke 23:43 (ESV)
This is understood as a spiritual realm of peace, also referred to as “Abraham’s bosom,” where the righteous like Lazarus were taken:
“The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side.”— Luke 16:22 (ESV)
Also echoed in Revelation where martyred souls are seen under the altar, resting and waiting:
“I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God… They were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer…”— Revelation 6:9–11 (ESV)
Summary: Paradise is not the final Heaven but a waiting place for believers who have died. It is peaceful and secure a foretaste of what is to come.
Definition: Hades refers to the temporary abode of the dead both righteous and unrighteous before Christ’s resurrection. Post-resurrection, it is associated more with the waiting place of the wicked.
In the Old Testament, “Sheol” is often used to describe the grave or realm of the dead:
“Oh that you would hide me in Sheol, that you would conceal me until your wrath be past…”— Job 14:13 (ESV)
David spoke prophetically of Christ, saying:
“For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.”— Psalm 16:10 (ESV)
After Christ’s resurrection, believers are no longer bound to Hades but go to Paradise, while Hades now holds the unsaved dead:
“And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised…”— Matthew 27:52 (NKJV)
Summary: Hades is the realm of the dead, often now referring to the waiting place of the unsaved dead, who await final judgment.
Definition: Gehenna refers to a place of fiery torment, used by Jesus to describe the fate of the wicked. It represents divine judgment and is not temporary — it leads into the Lake of Fire.
Gehenna was a real valley outside Jerusalem (Valley of Hinnom), used as a burning trash dump, which became a symbol of divine judgment.
Jesus warned of it:
“And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than with two feet to be thrown into hell [Gehenna].”— Mark 9:45 (ESV)
Jesus described it as a place:
“Where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.”— Mark 9:48 (ESV)
After final judgment, Gehenna leads to the Lake of Fire:
“Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death…”— Revelation 20:14 (ESV)
Summary: Gehenna is a place of conscious torment for the wicked — a prelude to the final Lake of Fire. It is permanent and irreversible.
Definition: The final and eternal punishment for Satan, demons, and all who are not in the Book of Life.
The final judgment of the wicked occurs at the Great White Throne:
“If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”— Revelation 20:15 (ESV)
Summary: This is the ultimate destination for those who reject Christ. It follows Gehenna and is final an eternal separation from God.
This is not just a theological discussion — it’s a personal and urgent matter. Jesus Christ offers salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”— John 3:36 (ESV)
“The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”— Romans 6:23 (ESV)
If you’ve never surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. Eternal destinies are real and permanent.
Repent: Turn away from sin (Acts 3:19).
Believe: Trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 10:9).
Follow Him: Live a life led by the Spirit, grounded in the Word (Galatians 5:25).
May God give us wisdom and grace to understand and respond to these truths.Please share this message with others.
Shalom.
A Theological Explanation of 1 Timothy 2:14–15
1 Timothy 2:14–15 (ESV)
“And Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor.Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control.”
When Scripture says that a woman “will be saved through childbearing,” what does this actually mean? Does motherhood itself bring salvation?
This verse does not teach that women are saved by the physical act of giving birth. Salvation by works—whether childbirth, good deeds, or religious duties—is consistently rejected throughout Scripture.
Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV)
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
If salvation came merely through having children, then every woman who gives birth—regardless of faith or obedience—would be saved. This would contradict the gospel and the entire New Testament witness that salvation comes through Christ alone.
Paul is writing to Timothy about order in the church, particularly addressing roles, responsibility, and spiritual maturity (1 Timothy 2:8–15). When Paul refers to Eve’s deception, he is not diminishing women, but grounding his argument in Genesis 3, highlighting the consequences of the Fall and God’s redemptive response.
Importantly, verse 15 begins with the word “Yet” (Greek: de), signaling hope after failure. Though Eve fell into transgression, God’s redemptive plan was not canceled.
There are three complementary theological layers in this verse:
Many theologians note that “childbearing” points beyond ordinary motherhood to the birth of Christ.
Genesis 3:15 (ESV)
“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.”
Salvation ultimately came through a woman—Mary—who bore the Savior.
Galatians 4:4–5 (ESV)
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman… to redeem those who were under the law.”
In this sense, Paul reminds readers that although a woman was involved in the Fall, a woman was also central to redemption.
Paul adds a critical condition:
Timothy 2:15b, ESV) “if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control”
Timothy 2:15b, ESV)
“if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control”
This shows that faith, not childbirth, is the basis of salvation. Motherhood becomes the context in which genuine faith is lived out and demonstrated.
Raising children in godliness is not a means of earning salvation, but a fruit of saving faith.
James 2:17 (ESV)
“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
A mother who faithfully disciples her children participates in God’s redemptive work by shaping the next generation for Christ.
Scripture consistently places spiritual responsibility on parents, especially within the home.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (ESV)
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”
Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
When mothers nurture children in faith, love, holiness, and self-control, they are actively advancing the kingdom of God.
Imagine if Christian parents truly discipled their children—many would already know Christ before ever hearing a sermon. The difficulty of evangelism today is often rooted in the failure of spiritual formation at home.
Scripture teaches that participating in God’s saving work carries eternal significance for the believer.
James 5:20 (ESV)
“Whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.”
Likewise, a mother who raises children in the fear of the Lord is instrumental in leading souls toward salvation—work that God honors.
If God has entrusted you with children, understand this truth:
Your first mission field is your home.
Teach your children Scripture. Model godly character. Correct them with love and discipline—not cruelty, but purpose—so that they may walk in reverence for the Lord.
Titus 2:4–5 (ESV)
“Train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be
Which Sandals Was Moses Told to Remove—Physical or Spiritual? (Exodus 3:5, ESV)
Let’s read:
Exodus 3:5 (ESV) –
“Then he said, ‘Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.’”
The sandals Moses was told to remove were physical sandals, not spiritual ones. This is reinforced elsewhere in Scripture: even Joshua was told to remove his sandals when encountering God’s presence (Joshua 5:15, NIV: “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy”).
In the Old Testament, purity before God often involved external rituals, such as washing, ablutions, and removing shoes. For example, Jews would wash their hands before eating, and anyone eating without washing was considered ceremonially unclean (Mark 7:2-4, NIV).
Mark 7:2-4 (NIV):
“Some Pharisees and teachers of the law who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus and saw some of his disciples eating food with ‘unclean’ hands— that is, without washing them. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers, and kettles.)”
These practices reflected God’s covenant with His people, showing that ceremonial cleanliness was part of living in His presence. That’s why Moses removed his sandals: they represented contact with all the dirt and impurities of the world. Sandals touch dust, mud, and even excrement, so they were not “clean.”
However, does this mean that physical washing or removing shoes is required to approach God today?
The answer is no. External rituals do not make a person acceptable before God in the New Covenant. Jesus clarified this teaching:
Matthew 15:16-20 (NIV) –
“Are you still so dull?” Jesus asked. “Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these defile a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what defile a person; eating with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.”
Here, Jesus shifts the focus from external ritual to the condition of the heart. It is not physical dirt but sin and corruption in the human heart that truly defiles.
Old Covenant vs. New Covenant Purity: In the Old Covenant, outward rituals (washing, removing sandals, ceremonial cleanness) were types and shadows pointing to inward holiness (Hebrews 9:9-10, ESV).
In the New Covenant, God calls His people to spiritual holiness, which flows from the heart rather than external actions (1 Peter 1:15-16, NIV: “Be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”).
The “Sandals of the Heart”:The sandals in Exodus symbolize what we carry with us spiritually. Just as physical sandals tread on dirt, our hearts can carry sin: lies, envy, sexual immorality, theft, pride, and unforgiveness.
REMOVING these “sandals” means repentance, confession, and cleansing by the blood of Jesus (1 John 1:7, NIV: “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin”).
Approaching God Today:
Today, we do not need ceremonial washing or removing shoes to enter God’s presence. Instead, we approach Him by faith in Jesus Christ, with a clean heart and a contrite spirit (Psalm 24:3-4, ESV).
Have you received Jesus? Has your heart been washed by His blood? Have you removed the sandals of sin from your life? These are the things that make us holy and pleasing to God, not ritualistic acts of external cleansing.
Jesus is near. Let us draw near to Him with clean hearts, ready to serve and worship.
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WHO GAVE YOU THE AUTHORITY TO DO THIS?
Have you ever considered the devil’s strategy in accusing Jesus—the argument strong enough to lead to His crucifixion? Understanding this reveals how Satan sets traps for believers, particularly in the end times.
The Bible tells us that the Jewish leaders searched for reasons to condemn Jesus but found none that could legitimately stick. It wasn’t until the final moments that they resorted to an accusation that carried weight: the Temple.
Matthew 26:59-61 (ESV):“Now the chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last, two came forward and said, ‘This man said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.’”
At first glance, this may seem like a simple statement about the Temple. But theologically, it highlights several key points:
Satan’s cunning: There were many statements Jesus made that could have justified His death in the minds of His accusers, such as when He called them children of the devil instead of Abraham (John 8:44 ESV). Yet the Temple statement had a specific weight—it touched on God’s dwelling place, the spiritual heart of Israel. Satan’s strategy was to use human pride and misunderstanding to bring Jesus to the cross.
The Temple as a spiritual symbol: The Temple in Jerusalem represented God’s presence among His people. When Jesus spoke of destroying and raising it in three days, He was not referring to Herod’s stone structure but to His body, the true dwelling place of God (John 2:19-21 ESV). This reveals Christ’s ultimate purpose: the establishment of the new covenant through His death and resurrection, where believers become God’s temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; Ephesians 2:19-22).
Historical preparation by God and opposition by Satan: During Zerubbabel’s time, the rebuilding of the Second Temple was opposed by enemies, and the Spirit guided the Jewish leaders to refuse their help (Ezra 4:1-3 ESV). Centuries later, Herod the Great extensively renovated the Temple, spending 46 years and immense resources (John 2:20 ESV). While this made the Temple magnificent in appearance, Satan’s hand was at work: turning God’s house into a place of commerce and human control.
Herod’s Temple became a center of economic exploitation and human authority, where strict regulations meant anyone wishing to innovate or challenge the system needed Herod’s permission—or faced death. The priests and the people were silenced by fear, a spiritual warning that human authority can obscure God’s authority when corrupted.
When Christ entered this Temple, He disrupted all commercial activity, showing that true worship must be pure and holy, not corrupted by profit or human agendas (Matthew 21:12-13 ESV). This angered the Jewish leaders, who asked:
Luke 20:2 (ESV):“‘Tell us by what authority you are doing these things. Who gave you this authority?’”
Their question reveals a human tendency to confuse earthly authority with divine authority. The ultimate authority belongs to God, and His Son, Jesus Christ, acts with divine authority—not human permission.
Theological lessons for believers today:
Satan understands the end times: he knows Christ will reclaim His church and will attempt to infiltrate it through deception (2 Corinthians 11:14-15 ESV). This is why false doctrines and corrupt religious systems proliferate.
True salvation is not about religious affiliation or denominational loyalty. It comes through repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and living in holiness (Acts 2:38 ESV; 1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV).
Believers must discern between the appearance of godliness and the power of God (2 Timothy 3:5 ESV). Practices not rooted in Scripture—idol worship, praying to saints, or unscriptural rituals—are traps of deception.
Even today, Satan does not have full power to destroy humanity. But in the end times, he will have temporary authority to persecute believers who resist the great deception (Revelation 13:7 ESV). Only those who are truly in Christ, living under God’s guidance, will stand firm.
So, the question remains: have you truly been saved, or are you relying on your religion or denomination for security? Denominations cannot save; only a personal relationship with Christ can. Salvation requires repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and a life committed to holiness.
Repent today, for Christ could return at any moment.
Maranatha.
Do you want me to do that next?
UNDERSTANDING HOW GOD AND SATAN SPEAK TO PEOPLE
Have you ever truly reflected on the words of the Lord Jesus?
John 8:38 – “I speak what I have seen with my Father; and you do what you have heard from your father.”
Jesus said this to the Jews (the Pharisees and scribes) at the time they were plotting to kill Him. But pause and think—when exactly did they sit down and hear Satan whisper in their ears, giving them instructions to kill Jesus?
We shouldn’t imagine Satan literally sitting next to them saying, “Now it’s time to kill Jesus, go!” That didn’t happen. But Jesus never lies. He must have seen that they were listening to Satan, following his voice, and carrying out everything he prompted them to do. That’s why Jesus says:
John 8:44 – “You belong to your father, the Devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and has never lived in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks naturally, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
Dear friend, the voice of Satan isn’t usually heard in visions, dreams, or through spirits. Likewise, we don’t hear God’s voice in that way either. We perceive God’s voice by observing what He does. Similarly, we can understand Satan’s voice by observing the works he inspires.
For example, the Jews became jealous of Jesus because God was sending Him to bring everyone into the light. They were filled with the thought of wanting to kill Him—a thought they had seen bear fruit in others before, so they followed it. That thought itself was the voice of Satan giving them direction.
Even today, when you feel the urge to return to sin, that’s already Satan’s voice. You obey it when you look at sexual content online, indulge in masturbation, go to clubs, or watch romantic movies constantly. In the spiritual realm, Jesus sees you sitting at the same table with Satan, listening carefully to his voice.
The same principle applies to God’s children. They hear God by observing what He does. As Jesus said, “I speak what I have seen with my Father.” Not through visions—Jesus observed God’s work on Earth, imitated it, and acted accordingly.
One example of what Jesus observed and imitated is showing COMPASSION, FORGIVENESS, LOVING YOUR ENEMIES, and KINDNESS even to the ungrateful.
Luke 6:35-36 – “But love your enemies, do good, and lend without expecting anything in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
You see, when you show these qualities—being kind to those who cannot repay you—you are spiritually seated at the same table with God, listening to Him as He guides your actions. This goes beyond voices, dreams, or visions—you perceive it through actions.
Matthew 5:46-48 – “For if you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Even the tax collectors do that. And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing? Even the pagans do that. Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
So let us learn to recognize the voice of God by observing His works. Likewise, we must learn to discern the voice of our enemy, Satan, so we can avoid him. Satan will never just whisper in your ear, “Go sin”—that doesn’t happen.
Have you been saved? Do you understand that we are living in a time of grace, and Christ could return at any moment? What are you waiting for? How will you feel if the rapture happens and you are left behind? What will you tell Jesus? Repent of your sins today and return fully to God. The gospel is not something to delay with; it is a call for immediate action. Time is short.
May the Lord bless you abundantly.
HOW CAN WE ACCESS THE PURE WORD OF GOD?
Many people read the Bible, but not everyone truly reaches the Pure Word of God. What most of us don’t realize is that reading the Bible once doesn’t automatically mean we have grasped the words that have the power to transform our lives completely.
It’s important to understand that the Bible is not as straightforward as it may seem. It contains the Pure Word of God, which cannot be accessed through casual reading alone. Those who are able to reach it experience profound spiritual transformation because of the Word’s power.
Today, by God’s grace, we’ll explore how someone can access this Word:
The Bible compares God’s Word to silver in some places and to gold in others.
For example, Psalm 12:6 says:
“The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.”
This verse tells us that, just like refining silver or gold, accessing the Pure Word of God involves a process.
When silver or gold is first mined, it doesn’t shine like the jewelry we see in stores. Instead, it is mixed with rocks, dirt, and impurities. To make it pure, the metal must be melted in intense heat. The impurities rise to the surface, while the pure silver or gold remains at the bottom. The impurities are then removed, and the metal solidifies again. This process is often repeated multiple times until the metal is completely refined, shining brilliantly.
God uses this as a metaphor for His Word. The Pure Word of God is like silver refined seven times. In other words, there are seven steps—or levels of refinement—to truly access God’s Word, which is meant to bring powerful transformation into our lives.
So how do we reach this “sevenfold refinement”?
If you read the Bible once and think you’ve understood everything, you haven’t yet reached the Pure Word of God. Reaching it requires patience, reflection, and repeated meditation—not just casual reading like a newspaper.
For instance, you may read the story of how God delivered the Israelites from Egypt. The first time, you might understand it simply as a story. If you stop there, thinking you’ve understood it all, the Bible will feel no different from any other historical book.
But if you decide to reflect on it again, pray for God’s guidance, and read it slowly with an open heart, you’ll begin to see deeper truths you missed the first time.
If you keep asking the Holy Spirit for understanding and return to the same passage repeatedly, you will be amazed at the new insights you discover—things you never noticed before.
The more you repeat this process, the more God’s Word is refined in your heart. Its power penetrates your spirit, leading to real transformation in your life.
The problem comes when we assume we’ve “finished” the Bible. When we read a story or a lesson and think, “I already know this,” we skim over the text or even skip important details.
Sometimes in church, a lesson is taught that you’ve heard before, and instead of listening carefully, you dismiss it: “I already understand this.”
Remember, the Pure Word of God is refined through seven stages of understanding.
I hope that from now on, we all commit to truly meditating on Scripture. Our goal is to experience the real power of God’s Word in our lives. Let’s dedicate ourselves to studying the Bible diligently.
A Theological Reflection with Biblical Foundations
The Lord says:
Psalm 34:8 (LUT)
„Schmecket und sehet, wie freundlich der HERR ist; wohl dem, der auf ihn trauet!“(Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who trusts in Him.)
The invitation to “taste and see that the LORD is good” is not merely poetic language — the Hebrew words טָעַם (taʿam — to taste/experience) and רָאָה (raʾah — to see/perceive) point to active, experiential knowledge of God. This is not intellectual assent or abstract belief, but a personal encounter with God’s goodness that transforms the soul.
In Scripture, tasting God does not mean literal eating but rather experiencing God’s goodness personally and intimately. Just as tasting food gives sensory confirmation of its sweetness, so experiencing God’s presence and providence confirms His character to the believer.
A careful theological reading shows:
Taste implies participation and experience — a real encounter with God’s character and presence.
See implies spiritual perception and discernment — seeing beyond the surface into the reality of God’s goodness.
Both together form a biblical pattern of knowing God experientially before fully understanding Him.
In Christian theology, this aligns with the concept of experiential knowledge (gnosis) — where faith becomes relational and transformative, not just informational.
As your original message explains, God often tests people to reveal the depth of their trust. The example of the Israelites in the desert shows this clearly. After crossing the Red Sea God led them into the wilderness where there was no water for three days. This was not arbitrary — it was a test to reveal whether their faith was rooted in the comfort of provision or in God Himself (the ultimate Provider).
In Exodus 15:22–25 (EÜ) we read:
„…und sie gingen drei Tage in die Wüste und fanden kein Wasser… Da murrte das Volk gegen Mose… Mose rief zum HERRN; da zeigte der HERR ihm einen Baum, den er hineinwarf ins Wasser, und das Wasser wurde süß… Dort prüfte er sie.“(…and they went three days in the desert and found no water… The people complained… Moses cried to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a tree… There He tested them.)
This testing is not punitive — it is formative, designed so that genuine faith may arise where there was only conditional trust.
In biblical theology, God’s blessings often come after testing. This theme appears repeatedly:
„Du sollst dir merken alle Wege, die der HERR, dein Gott, dich geführt hat… und erprüft hat dich, um zu wissen, was in deinem Herzen ist, ob du halten würdest sein Gebot oder nicht…“(…He tested you to know what was in your heart… to humble you and let you know your dependence on Him.)
This passage shows that God allows testing to shape true dependence on Him rather than mere reliance on blessings or comfort.
Psalm 34’s invitation finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ:
Johannes 6:35 (LUT)
„…Ich bin das Brot des Lebens. Wer zu mir kommt, wird nicht hungern…“
Jesus invites us to partake of Him — to taste and see the goodness of God through relationship with Him. This aligns with the Old Testament invitation: tasting God’s goodness becomes partaking in the life of Christ.
Christian theologians distinguish between:
Docetic faith — belief based on doctrine only
Relational faith — belief grounded in personal experience of God’s presence
Psalm 34:8 calls believers to the second: faith that is tested, proven, real — involving heart, mind, emotion, and obedience.
Testing Reveals True Faith — trials are not signs of abandonment but opportunities to discover whether our trust is in God Himself or merely in His gifts.
Taste Before Full Sight — in the biblical order, experience comes before full understanding, not vice versa. Spiritual knowledge grows as we encounter God.
Christ as the True Goodness — Jesus is the ultimate answer to the invitation to “taste and see” — not just a symbol, but the incarnate presence of God’s goodness.
The call to Taste and see that the LORD is good is both an invitation and a challenge. It invites us into deeper communion with God through personal experience and spiritual perception. It challenges us through seasons of testing so that faith can be proven genuine.
May this understanding deepen both your relationship with God and your theological reflection on what it means to trust Him.
What Does the Word “Fasting” Mean in the Bible?
The word fasting originates from the Aramaic and Hebrew languages. In Hebrew, the term “tsom” (צוֹם) is used, which means “to abstain from food and drink.” In biblical practice, fasting was primarily a spiritual discipline meant to express humility, repentance, and a deep desire to seek God.
Fasting is not just a physical act of denying oneself food—it is a spiritual practice meant to align the heart with God’s will.
Zechariah 8:19 (NIV):“This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘The fasts of the fourth, fifth, seventh and tenth months will become joyful and glad occasions and happy festivals for Judah. Therefore love truth and peace.’”
This verse shows that fasting was practiced regularly in Israel as a spiritual tradition, often tied to national events like mourning or remembrance. But God desires that these fasts be transformed into times of joy, truth, and peace when done with the right heart.
Joel 1:14 (NIV):“Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.”
Here, fasting is connected with national repentance. The people are called to turn back to God through prayer and mourning for their sins.
Also see:
Joel 2:15 (NIV):“Blow the trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly.”
Again, fasting is linked with a collective call to repentance and revival. Fasting that pleases God is more than skipping meals—it’s about transformation of the heart and actions. The prophet Isaiah delivers a powerful message from God, rebuking religious fasting that lacks love, justice, and mercy.
Isaiah 58:3-8 (NIV): [3 ]Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. [4] Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. [5]Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? [6]“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke,to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? [7] Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter ,when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? [8] Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.”
Isaiah 58:3-8 (NIV):
[3 ]Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers.
[4] Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.
[5]Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD?
[6]“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke,to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?
[7] Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter ,when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
[8] Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.”
God rebukes superficial religion. He desires worship that reflects His own character: justice, mercy, and compassion. Fasting is empty when it’s disconnected from righteous living. Jesus affirms this heart-centered view of fasting in Matthew 6:16–18, where He teaches that fasting should be sincere, not for show.
Fasting is meant to be a way of humbling ourselves before God and creating space to hear Him more clearly. In Scripture, people fasted:
To seek guidance (Acts 13:2–3)In repentance (Daniel 9:3–5)In mourning (2 Samuel 1:12)For deliverance (2 Chronicles 20:3)To grow spiritually (Matthew 4:2 – Jesus fasted in the wilderness)
Yet even long fasts—like Moses’ 40-day fast (Exodus 34:28)—are meaningless if they are not accompanied by repentance and spiritual renewal. As Paul writes in
1 Corinthians 13:3 (NIV):“If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”
When you fast, ask yourself: Is my heart turning away from sin? Am I growing in love and righteousness? If not, the fast may have little eternal value. Fasting should not just be a ritual—it must be an act of surrender, a cry for holiness, and a commitment to justice.
Otherwise, as Isaiah warns, you might be working hard in vain—even fasting 40 days and nights won’t please God without genuine transformation.
Please, share this message of truth and hope with others.