It Is Hard to Kick Against the Goad” — Understanding God’s Purpose and Our Resistance
Introduction
Many of us desire to walk in God’s purpose, but what happens when we resist it—intentionally or unintentionally? In the calling of the Apostle Paul, we find a powerful metaphor that reveals the pain and futility of fighting against God’s will.
“We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied.”
— Acts 26:14-15 (NIV)
Let’s explore what this phrase means and how it applies to us today.
1. Paul Was Not Spiritually Ignorant
Before his conversion, Saul (later Paul) was a Pharisee (Philippians 3:5), zealous for the Law and fiercely opposed to the early church. Yet, Paul wasn’t ignorant of who Jesus was. He lived during Jesus’ time, heard the gospel from Christians, and witnessed Stephen’s death—one of the first powerful gospel sermons.
“And Saul approved of their killing him.” — Acts 8:1a (NIV)
“When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him… But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” — Acts 7:54-55 (NIV)
The phrase “they were cut to the heart” (Acts 7:54) suggests conviction—proof that they recognized the truth but rejected it out of pride and anger. Saul was deeply impacted by this event, even if he didn’t admit it.
2. What Does “Kick Against the Goads” Mean?
A goad was a long, sharp stick used by farmers to prod oxen into movement. If an ox kicked against the goad, it would only hurt itself more. Jesus uses this image to show Paul that resisting divine truth causes self-inflicted harm.
Theological Insight:
The goad represents God’s persistent attempts to guide and correct us—through His Spirit, His Word, and sometimes through suffering. Paul had been resisting these prompts.
“Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle.” — Psalm 32:9 (NIV)
Just like stubborn animals need painful tools to obey, humans who resist God often experience unnecessary suffering.
3. Resisting God Is Dangerous
Paul’s journey mirrors that of Balaam (Numbers 22). Though God told Balaam not to go and curse Israel, he insisted. On the road, an angel prepared to kill him, but his donkey—enabled by God—saved his life.
“The angel of the Lord stood in a narrow path… with a drawn sword in his hand… The Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and it said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’” — Numbers 22:23-28 (NIV)
Lesson:
Like Paul, Balaam’s story is a warning: continued rebellion against God leads to destruction—unless grace intervenes.
4. Two Responses to God’s Conviction
There are always two responses when God convicts the heart:
A. Softened Hearts:
At Pentecost, those who heard Peter’s message responded with repentance.
“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said… ‘What shall we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized…’” — Acts 2:37-38 (NIV)
B. Hardened Hearts:
But those at Stephen’s stoning responded with rage instead of repentance.
“They covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him…” — Acts 7:57 (NIV)
5. Paul’s Transformation: A Lesson in Mercy
Despite Paul’s stubbornness, God intervened. Jesus met him personally, not to destroy him, but to redeem him. Paul went from a persecutor to an apostle—the greatest missionary of the early church.
“But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience…” — 1 Timothy 1:16 (NIV)
6. Application: Are You Resisting God?
You may not be persecuting the church like Paul, but many resist God’s will in subtle ways—ignoring conviction, rejecting correction, or hindering the spread of the gospel.
“Whoever is not with me is against me…” — Matthew 12:30 (NIV)
Opposing God’s work—whether through pride, fear, jealousy, or indifference—is like kicking against the goad. You may not see the pain immediately, but over time, it takes a toll on your spiritual, emotional, and even physical life.
Conclusion: Stop Fighting—Surrender
The message is simple but urgent: Don’t fight God’s purpose. If the Holy Spirit is convicting you—through Scripture, through people, or through your circumstances—listen and obey.
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” — Hebrews 3:15 (NIV)
Paul and Balaam were shown grace in their resistance. But we’re not guaranteed that same delay in judgment. Let’s respond now—while mercy is still available.
Final Thought
To fight against God is to harm yourself. To surrender to Him is to find true life. Don’t kick against the goad.
Stay alert. Stay humble. Stay aligned with God’s will.
God bless you.
Why Did Jesus Call God “Aba”?
The term “Aba” first appears in the Bible in the words of Jesus. It is an Aramaic term that is translated as “Father”, but it carries a much more intimate and affectionate meaning than the formal term “Father” in many languages, including English. Aramaic was a language that Jesus frequently spoke, as it was the common language of the people in His time, alongside Hebrew and Greek.
Other famous Aramaic words and phrases from Jesus recorded in the Bible include “
Talitha kumi” (Mark 5:41), “Ephphatha” (Mark 7:34), and “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani” (Matthew 27:46).
The language of Aramaic, though closely related to Hebrew, had also absorbed influences from other ancient languages, including Babylonian, which makes it somewhat different from the more sacred Hebrew language.
The word “Aba” is deeply significant. It does indeed mean “Father”, but in a context that conveys deep intimacy and closeness—similar to how a child would call their father “Daddy” or “Papa”. In contrast, the word “Father” in English can feel more formal, distant, and authoritative. A child who calls their father “Daddy” shares a more affectionate, trust-based relationship, where they feel safe, loved, and able to approach their father freely with their needs, thoughts, and feelings.
Theological Significance of “Aba”
Jesus’ use of “Aba” reflects the nature of the relationship between Him and God the Father. In the Old Testament, God is often referred to as Father (see, for example, Malachi 2:10 and Isaiah 63:16), but the personal, intimate use of “Aba” was revolutionary. It indicates an unparalleled closeness and familiarity. No other Jewish person in Jesus’ time had referred to God in such a personal way.
When Jesus uses the term “Aba”, He is not just acknowledging God as His Father; He is also inviting us into this intimate relationship. This is a key element of the Gospel—through Jesus, we too can call God “Aba” as His children.
Jesus’ relationship with God the Father, as expressed through the term “Aba”, is foundational to understanding the doctrine of the Trinity and the concept of adoption in Christian theology. The Bible teaches that Jesus is the Son of God, and He shares a unique, eternal relationship with God the Father (John 1:1-14). However, through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for us to be adopted into God’s family as His sons and daughters.
John 1:12–13 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
This adoption is not something we can claim on our own. It is a gift from God, given to those who receive Jesus Christ by faith and accept His work of salvation. As believers, we are brought into the intimate family relationship with God, and we can call Him “Aba” because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Romans 8:15-17 (NIV)
“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Aba, Father.’ The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.”
This passage highlights the profound theological truth that, through the Holy Spirit, believers are adopted into God’s family. We are no longer slaves to fear but sons and daughters who can cry out “Aba, Father.” This is a privilege that believers in Christ have, which was made possible only through Jesus’ atoning work.
The Challenge of Calling God “Aba”
The idea of calling God “Aba” was so radical that it upset the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. For them, it was a form of blasphemy because they could not fathom God being that close to humans. To them, God was to be revered in His transcendence and holiness, not approached with the familiarity that “Aba” implies. That’s one reason they accused Jesus of blasphemy and plotted His death (John 5:18).
Even today, some religions struggle with the idea of calling God “Father” or “Aba”. For instance, in Islam, the belief is that God (Allah) is transcendent and does not have a son or any familial relationships with His creation. Calling God “Father” or “Aba” would be considered blasphemous in such a worldview.
However, Christianity teaches that this intimate relationship with God is made possible through Jesus Christ. In Christ, God has drawn near to humanity in a way that was unimaginable before. Jesus reveals that God is not just a distant deity but a Father who longs for His children to know Him deeply and personally.
Galatians 4:6–7 (NIV)
“Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Aba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are His child, God has made you also an heir.”
The Power of Adoption
Through the sacrifice of Jesus, believers are not only forgiven but also adopted into God’s family. This adoption grants us the full rights and privileges of children. We become heirs of God, co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). This adoption is an unearned grace, a divine act of love and mercy. As children of God, we have access to Him in a way that is profoundly personal and intimate. The Spirit within us confirms our status as His children, and we are empowered to call God “Aba.”
Living as Children of Aba
Being a child of God means we have confidence in our relationship with Him. When we cry out “Aba, Father”, we are expressing not only our dependence on God but also our trust in His goodness, love, and faithfulness. This relationship is foundational to Christian living, and it should shape the way we approach God in prayer, in worship, and in everyday life.
Ephesians 1:5-6 (NIV)
“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will—to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves.”
Through Jesus, we have been adopted into God’s family. This adoption is an act of grace—something we don’t deserve, but that God freely gives to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
If you are a Christian, you have the incredible privilege of calling God “Aba.” This relationship isn’t just about having a distant, formal Father; it’s about having a personal, intimate relationship with the Creator of the universe. Jesus made this possible through His life, death, and resurrection. If you haven’t yet experienced this closeness with God, now is the time to repent, believe in Jesus, and accept the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.
1 John 1:12 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”
If you haven’t yet received Jesus, take this step today. Be baptized in water in the name of Jesus Christ, and receive the Holy Spirit. Once you do, you will be able to call God “Aba” with the confidence of a beloved child.
May the Lord bless you.
Behold, I Stand at the Door
Revelation 3:20 – NKJV)
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”
— Revelation 3:20, NKJV
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Welcome to this time of reflection on God’s Word.
1. The Exclusivity of Christ as the Way to Life
The Bible teaches that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. He is not one of many ways to God—He is the only way.
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
— Acts 4:12, NKJV
As the Apostle Paul reminds us:
“For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.”
— Romans 5:19, NKJV
Through Adam came sin and death; through Christ comes righteousness and life. Jesus Himself declared:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
— John 14:6, NKJV
Any path outside of Christ—no matter how morally appealing or widely accepted—is a path of deception and eternal loss.
2. Jesus Uses Parables to Reveal God’s Kingdom
Throughout His ministry, Jesus used everyday imagery—trees, seeds, farmers, merchants, kings—to teach profound spiritual truths:
“All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables… that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: ‘I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.’”
— Matthew 13:34–35, NKJV
John concludes his Gospel by reminding us that much of what Jesus did was never recorded:
“And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books…”
— John 21:25, NKJV
One of the most intimate images He gives is that of knocking at the door of our hearts in Revelation 3:20, addressing the lukewarm church of Laodicea.
3. The Nature of Christ’s Invitation
When Jesus says “I stand at the door and knock,” He is expressing a personal and persistent call. This is not the Second Coming, which will be sudden and unannounced, like a thief in the night (Matthew 24:43–44). Rather, this is His daily approach to our individual hearts, desiring fellowship.
The language implies evening time—a spiritual metaphor for the last hour, the final opportunity before night falls:
“The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness…”
— Romans 13:12, NKJV
The supper He refers to (Revelation 3:20) echoes the Lord’s Supper, a symbol of communion and shared life. He brings spiritual nourishment—His Word, His Spirit, His peace. We, in return, offer Him our surrendered lives.
“Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.”
— Luke 12:37, NKJV
4. Responding to His Knock
Christ does not force entry. He knocks. He waits. He speaks. But the door must be opened from the inside. This illustrates free will and personal responsibility in salvation:
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”
— Hebrews 3:15, NKJV
Some will not hear because they are spiritually asleep, distracted by the noise of the world (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Others hear but deliberately ignore Him.
Jesus warns that if we reject Him knowingly and repeatedly, He may eventually stop knocking. This echoes His rebuke to Jerusalem:
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem… How often I wanted to gather your children together… but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’”
— Matthew 23:37–39, NKJV
This is one of the most sobering statements in Scripture: “You shall see Me no more.” The finality of divine rejection is terrifying.
5. The Danger of Delay
Many assume they’ll respond to God “later”—in old age, or after they’ve enjoyed the pleasures of the world. But Scripture warns that we do not control tomorrow:
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”
— Proverbs 27:1, NKJV
The longer we delay, the more hardened our hearts can become (Hebrews 3:13). The very ability to hear His voice is grace—and that grace doesn’t last forever.
6. Open the Door While You Still Can
If today you feel a stirring in your heart, that’s not coincidence—it’s the Spirit of God knocking. Don’t ignore it. Repent, believe, and surrender your life to Jesus.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”
— Isaiah 55:6, NKJV
Open the door. He will not condemn you for taking long. He will come in, dine with you, restore you, and fill you with peace and purpose. He brings blessings for both body and soul, and a new hope for this life and eternity.
But if you continue to ignore Him, the next time He comes may be not as a guest—but as a thief in the night, to take His own and leave the rest to face judgment.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”
— Matthew 24:42, NKJV
Conclusion: The Choice Is Yours
Jesus is at the door. He is knocking. Not with force, but with love. With patience, but also urgency. Will you open your heart today?
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV
Respond now. Invite Him in. Let Him change your life.
FIND SALVATION TODAY.
LOOK TO HIM WHOM THEY PIERCED
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, by God’s grace, we have another opportunity to reflect on His Word and the blessings He has prepared for us.
Let us begin by reading from Zechariah 12:9-14, where the prophet speaks of a future time:
“On that day I will set out to destroy all the nations that attack Jerusalem. And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child…”
This prophecy speaks about the Jewish people—the Israelites. Israel is a small nation, barely the size of a regional county, and doesn’t seem remarkable in terms of natural wonders or resources. Yet, it remains the center of global attention—why?
Despite being spiritually distant from God today, the Jewish people are intellectually gifted and extraordinarily successful worldwide. Now imagine: if they are already achieving so much while disconnected from God, what will happen when they return to Him?
The Bible promises that one day, God’s Spirit of grace will be poured out upon Israel. On that day, they will finally recognize Jesus—the one they rejected and pierced over 2,000 years ago—as their true Messiah. They will weep deeply in repentance, realizing that the very one they crucified is the Savior they had long awaited.
This moment marks a turning point, and it fulfills the prophecy written by Apostle Paul in Romans 11:25-27:
“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: ‘The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob. And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.’”
In other words, Israel’s spiritual blindness was allowed for a purpose—so that salvation could come to the Gentiles. We, the nations, have been living in this period of grace. But this season won’t last forever.
Once the time for the Gentiles is fulfilled, grace will return to Israel. And with that transition, the Rapture—the great catching away of believers—will follow.
Currently, Jews are still crying out at the Western Wall (the Wailing Wall) in Jerusalem, praying to the God of their fathers to send the Messiah and save them from their enemies. The day is coming when those prayers will be answered—when their spiritual eyes are opened and they finally see Jesus for who He truly is.
It’s important to understand: God deliberately allowed Israel to be spiritually blinded so that the Gospel could reach us, the Gentiles. Without that, we might still be bound in idol worship, witchcraft, and spiritual darkness. But through Christ, we were shown mercy.
When the disciples asked Jesus if He would restore the kingdom to Israel after His resurrection, He responded that it wasn’t for them to know the time or season (Acts 1:6-7). This meant that a time will come when God will restore Israel fully—and that time is drawing near.
When it happens, the world will witness God’s mighty defense of Israel once again. Nations will unite against Jerusalem in the final battle—the Battle of Armageddon—but God will rise and fight for His people.
Zechariah 14 describes that day vividly:
“Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations, as he fights on a day of battle. On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south. You will flee by my mountain valley, for it will extend to Azel. You will flee as you fled from the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Then the LORD my God will come, and all the holy ones with him.”
So while it’s easy to be amazed at Israel’s progress today, the real message is this: Time is short. Grace is shifting.
Look at the state of Christianity worldwide. Nations that once sent missionaries are now turning away from faith. This is a sign: the age of grace for the Gentiles is closing, and God’s attention is turning back to Israel.
Eventually, all nations—including ours—will oppose Israel and align with the Antichrist. As Zechariah 12:3 warns:
“On that day, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves…”
That’s not a time to wish for. Why wait until those terrible days come upon us suddenly?
Now is the time to act. The grace of God is still available—especially here in Africa. Don’t let it pass you by. Accept Jesus into your life and let Him cleanse and prepare you for His return.
May the Lord bless you and keep you ready.
Beware the Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod
Introduction: What Is Yeast?
In Scripture, Jesus uses the term “yeast” (or leaven) symbolically to warn about hidden spiritual dangers. To understand the weight of His warning, let’s first define what yeast is.
In simple terms, yeast (also called leaven) is a substance made of living microorganisms (scientifically known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae). When added to flour and water, it ferments the dough, producing gas that causes the dough to rise. Though small in quantity, yeast spreads throughout the dough and changes its nature completely.
This physical process serves as a powerful spiritual metaphor: small, hidden influences can transform an entire life, community, or belief system.
Jesus’ Warning About Yeast
Jesus gives a direct warning to His disciples:
“And he cautioned them, saying, ‘Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.’”
– Mark 8:15, ESV
At first, the disciples misunderstood, thinking Jesus was referring to physical bread. But Jesus was talking about spiritual influence:
“Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
– Matthew 16:12, ESV
Luke’s Gospel clarifies further:
“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.”
– Luke 12:1b, ESV
Two Kinds of Dangerous Influence
Jesus identifies two kinds of “yeast”:
1. The Yeast of the Pharisees – Religious Hypocrisy
The Pharisees were known for their strict religious rules and public displays of righteousness. However, Jesus exposed their spiritual inconsistency:
- They honored God with their lips, but their hearts were far from Him (Matthew 15:8–9).
- They burdened others with laws they themselves didn’t keep (Matthew 23:4).
- Their outward behavior masked an inward corruption (Matthew 23:27).
This yeast represents legalism, pride, and false spirituality—a subtle but deadly form of hypocrisy that spreads through religious communities.
2. The Yeast of Herod – Political Compromise and Worldliness
Herod and his followers (Herodians) represented political power and secular influence. They aligned with Roman authority and were more interested in preserving power than truth.
Herod:
- Tried to kill Jesus at His birth (Matthew 2:13).
- Beheaded John the Baptist under pressure (Mark 6:17–28).
- Mocked Jesus before His crucifixion (Luke 23:11).
Jesus referred to Herod as a “fox” (Luke 13:32), a symbol of cunning and deceit.
Herod’s yeast represents corruption, moral compromise, and manipulation—spiritual dangers that come from seeking political favor or mixing the gospel with worldly power.
Why This Matters Today
Jesus’ warning is still relevant. Many believers today are influenced by:
- Religious traditions that lack true heart transformation.
- Political agendas that dilute or distract from the gospel.
When we allow either influence into our spiritual life, our nature begins to change—just like dough transformed by yeast. We risk becoming hypocritical, divided, and spiritually ineffective.
Paul also used the yeast metaphor:
“Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”
– 1 Corinthians 5:6–7, ESV
“Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”
– 1 Corinthians 5:8, ESV
A Call to Believers and Ministers
If you are a follower of Christ—especially a servant of God—be careful what influences you entertain. Whether you’re a preacher, teacher, worship leader, or lay believer, you are called to holiness, not compromise.
This doesn’t mean avoiding politicians or religious leaders completely, but it means we must not adopt their “yeast”:
- Don’t get entangled in partisan politics.
- Don’t chase platforms or popularity.
- Don’t preach to impress, but to transform.
Serve God in purity and power, avoiding the yeast of hypocrisy or compromise.
Conclusion: Remain Unleavened
We are called to be spiritually unleavened—free from hidden sin, manipulation, and false teaching.
“Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.”
– Hebrews 13:13–14, ESV
Let us live with sincerity and truth, free from the corruption of religious performance or political power. May we be faithful disciples who reflect Christ—not the culture around us.
Be vigilant. Be discerning. Be holy.
Stay away from the yeast that corrupts. Cling to the truth that saves.
Blessings to you in Christ.
WHY DID GOD INSTRUCT PROPHET ISAIAH TO PREACH NAKED?
Introduction: A Strange Command from God
In Isaiah 20:1–6, God commands the prophet Isaiah to remove his sackcloth and sandals and walk naked and barefoot for three years. At first glance, this instruction appears shocking and even controversial. But upon closer examination, we discover a deep theological purpose: God was using Isaiah as a living sign of impending judgment.
“At the same time the Lord spoke by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, ‘Go, and remove the sackcloth from your body, and take your sandals off your feet.’ And he did so, walking naked and barefoot.”
(Isaiah 20:2, NKJV)
Historical Context: Egypt and Cush’s Pride
Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia) were powerful allies of Judah. Many in Judah placed their political and military hope in Egypt rather than trusting in the Lord (see Isaiah 30:1–3). But both nations were steeped in idolatry and pride.
God’s judgment against them would be both severe and shameful: their people would be taken captive, stripped naked, and led away in chains—an act symbolizing humiliation and defeat.
“So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians as prisoners and the Ethiopians as captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, with their buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt.”
(Isaiah 20:4, NKJV)
Theological Insight: Nakedness as a Symbol of Judgment
In Scripture, nakedness often symbolizes shame and vulnerability—particularly spiritual exposure (Genesis 3:7, Revelation 3:17). After Adam and Eve sinned, they realized they were naked and hid. That was not just physical shame—it was the awareness of guilt and separation from God.
Likewise, Isaiah’s nakedness became a prophetic symbol: if people trusted in human strength (like Egypt), instead of God, they would be exposed and judged.
“Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… but who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the Lord!”
(Isaiah 31:1, NKJV)
Prophetic Symbolism in Action
God often used prophetic acts to illustrate His message in a dramatic, unforgettable way:
- Ezekiel was told to lie on his side for 390 days and cook food over dung to symbolize the siege and defilement of Jerusalem (Ezekiel 4:1–17).
- Jeremiah wore a linen sash and buried it near the Euphrates to illustrate Judah’s pride and coming ruin (Jeremiah 13:1–11).
- Hosea was commanded to marry a prostitute to symbolize Israel’s unfaithfulness (Hosea 1:2).
Isaiah’s nakedness fit this prophetic tradition—God using His messengers as signs to confront sin and awaken repentance.
Foreshadowing Christ: The Naked Savior
The greatest prophetic sign came in the person of Jesus Christ, who was also exposed and humiliated on the cross. Contrary to most artistic depictions, crucifixion victims were often stripped completely to maximize shame.
“They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him.”
(Matthew 27:28, NKJV)
Though sinless, Jesus bore our shame and judgment, naked before the world, to restore what Adam lost.
“Looking unto Jesus… who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame…”
(Hebrews 12:2, NKJV)
Jesus’ crucifixion wasn’t just a method of execution—it was a prophetic act that declared: without repentance, all humanity remains spiritually exposed.
“Then Jesus, turning to them, said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children.’”
(Luke 23:28, NKJV)
Fulfillment in History: 70 A.D. and the Roman Siege
Jesus wept over Jerusalem, warning that its rejection of God’s offer of salvation would lead to ruin (Luke 19:41–44). In 70 A.D., this came to pass. The Roman army under General Titus destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple.
Historian Flavius Josephus records that thousands of Jews were crucified—naked—outside the city walls. Up to 500 per day were executed during the siege. Trees ran out due to the number of crucifixions.
This horrifying event fulfilled Jesus’ prophetic warnings (see Matthew 24, Luke 21), and mirrored the symbolic judgments of Isaiah 20.
Revelation’s Warning to the Church: Spiritual Nakedness
In the book of Revelation, Jesus addresses the church in Laodicea, which thought itself wealthy and self-sufficient. But spiritually, it was “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”
“I counsel you to buy from Me… white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed.”
(Revelation 3:18, NKJV)
The warning is clear: many believers today may appear outwardly strong, but inwardly lack the spiritual covering of Christ’s righteousness.
The Call to Repentance and Righteousness
Just as Isaiah was a warning to Egypt and Cush, and Jesus a warning to Israel, so today the Word of God warns us: stay clothed in righteousness.
“Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.”
(Revelation 16:15, NKJV)
The only garment that can cover our spiritual shame is the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ—washed in His blood.
“Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.”
(Romans 4:7, NKJV)
Conclusion: Be Clothed in Christ
Isaiah’s message still speaks. Don’t trust in worldly powers. Don’t ignore God’s warnings. Don’t live spiritually naked. Instead:
- Accept Christ’s sacrifice.
- Repent and walk in His righteousness.
- Let the blood of Jesus be your covering and security on the Day of Judgment.
“Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.”
(Romans 13:14, NKJV)
May the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified forever.
Amen. Be blessed.
RACA — The Power of Words and the Condition of the Heart
Introduction
In Matthew 5:20–22, Jesus delivers a powerful message that shifts the focus from mere outward actions to the inward condition of the heart:
Matthew 5:20–22 (NIV)
“For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.”
This teaching radically redefines sin—not just as a physical act like murder, but as something rooted in the attitudes and motives of the heart.
A Personal Reflection
I once experienced deep frustration toward someone who offended me. I didn’t shout or confront them directly, but I let my emotions show. Later, while venting to someone else, I referred to the person as “very foolish” and explained what they had done to me.
At first, I felt justified in how I expressed my anger. But later, I began to feel convicted and uneasy in my spirit. I knew something was off. So I prayed, asking God to reveal the root of the issue.
When I opened my Bible, the first verse I read was Matthew 5:22. It was as if God was directly confronting my heart. I had read the verse before but never truly grasped its meaning—especially the word “Raca.”
The Meaning of “Raca”
The term “Raca” comes from the Aramaic language and was used as an insult meaning “empty-headed” or “worthless.” According to Bible dictionaries and scholarly sources, it’s equivalent to calling someone “brainless,” “idiot,” or “good-for-nothing.”
In modern language, words like “stupid,” “fool,” “dumb,” and “loser” carry similar weight. Though they might seem minor or harmless in casual conversation, Jesus warns that such words carry serious moral and spiritual consequences.
Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
James 3:9–10 (NIV)
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
Words reveal what’s truly in our hearts. Jesus made it clear that using contemptuous language—especially toward fellow believers—is spiritually dangerous and worthy of judgment.
Heart Over Law: The Fulfillment Through Christ
Jesus’ message in Matthew 5 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where He consistently deepens the Old Testament commandments, showing that the law’s true fulfillment involves inward transformation—not just outward behavior.
For example:
- Murder is not only a physical act but begins with hatred or unresolved anger (Matthew 5:21–22).
- Adultery is not just a sexual act, but begins in the heart and eyes (Matthew 5:27–28).
- Retaliation and vengeance are replaced with forgiveness and love (Matthew 5:38–39, 44).
These teachings fulfill, not abolish, the law:
Matthew 5:17 (NIV)
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Even revered Old Testament figures like David, Moses, or Solomon operated with partial understanding (1 Corinthians 13:9–10). While David wrote many psalms condemning fools and evildoers, and Moses permitted practices like polygamy, Jesus brought a perfect revelation of God’s heart and intention.
John 1:17 (NIV)
“For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
Hebrews 1:1–2 (NIV)
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets… but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…”
So as Christians, we follow Jesus’ standard, not just the Old Covenant examples. As John the Baptist declared:
John 3:30 (NIV)
“He must become greater; I must become less.”
Application: A Call to Watch Our Words
From this experience and Scripture, I’ve learned that calling someone “fool,” “idiot,” or any word that devalues them is not just a slip of the tongue—it reflects a heart issue. Jesus challenges us not only to avoid sin, but to uproot the conditions that lead to it—like anger, pride, and contempt.
1 John 3:15 (NIV)
“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.”
This doesn’t mean we can’t correct others. But correction must be rooted in love, not frustration or judgment. For example, saying “That was an unwise decision” is different from calling someone “stupid.” One seeks restoration; the other wounds.
Final Encouragement
To my fellow believer reading this:
Do not use Scripture—especially from the Old Testament—as a justification to curse others, condemn them, or expose their weaknesses. Jesus calls us to a higher standard of mercy, humility, and heart-level holiness.
You don’t have to commit murder to be guilty—harboring hate or speaking with contempt is enough to separate us from God. But through repentance and the grace of Christ, we can be renewed.
Let us grow daily from glory to glory, being transformed into His image, and learning from our mistakes:
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)
“And we all… are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
May God help us all to live in a way that honors Him, not just in our actions, but in our words and in our hearts.
God bless you richly.
