Did Jesus Christ Have Brothers and Sisters?
Question: Did Jesus have brothers and sisters like other people?
Answer: Yes! Our Lord Jesus Christ had biological brothers and sisters, born to Mary, His mother. This is confirmed clearly in Scripture, for example in Matthew 13:54-56 and Mark 6:3.
Matthew 13:54-56
“And coming to his hometown he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?’”
The passage mentions Jesus’ family in a straightforward way, identifying Mary as His mother and naming His brothers and sisters as distinct individuals. This strongly supports the understanding that Jesus had siblings in the normal biological sense.
The Perpetual Virginity of Mary
Some traditions, especially within Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, teach the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, meaning Mary remained a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Jesus. According to this view, the “brothers and sisters” mentioned are interpreted as either cousins or children from a previous marriage of Joseph.
However, the plain reading of the text challenges this view:
- The Greek words used for “brothers” (adelphoi) and “sisters” (adelphai) typically refer to siblings born of the same parents unless otherwise specified.
- The text distinguishes Mary as the mother, not the aunt or other relative, and explicitly names these individuals as Jesus’ brothers and sisters.
- There is no biblical mention of Joseph having a previous marriage, making the “step-siblings” theory weak.
- Luke 2:7 confirms Mary “gave birth to her firstborn son,” which implies more children followed.
God’s Plan and Human Reality
God’s plan involved Mary and Joseph as husband and wife, and it was normal for them to have children after Jesus. This is seen in:
- Matthew 1:18-25: Joseph accepts Mary as his wife after the angel’s message, implying their marriage relationship was intact.
- The angel’s message does not command Joseph to divorce or leave Mary but to take her as his wife (Matthew 1:20-21).
- Luke 8:19-21 : Jesus defines His true family not by biological ties but by obedience to God’s will:
“Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they were not able to reach him because of the crowd. And he was told, ‘Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, asking for you.’ And he answered them, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.’”
This statement emphasizes spiritual kinship as primary but does not deny his biological family.
Biblical Authors Who Were Jesus’ Brothers
Among Jesus’ brothers were James and Judas (Jude), who became prominent leaders in the early church and authored the epistles named after them. This connection is significant because it shows that Jesus’ siblings played important roles in the growth of Christianity.
Have you accepted Jesus? Are you part of His family by faith—by hearing and obeying God’s Word? If so, you are truly His brother or sister.
Jesus is coming back.
Was there no other way to be saved besides the death of the Lord Jesus?
Why did God choose the death on the cross as the only way to redeem us? Was there really no other option for victory? Amen.
Answer: God, being all-powerful (omnipotent), certainly could have chosen any method for our redemption (Jeremiah 32:17). But the reason why death became the necessary means is rooted in the nature of sin and God’s justice.
Before Adam sinned, God warned him:
“But you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will surely die.” (Genesis 2:17).
This was God’s clear declaration that sin results in death — spiritual separation from God and ultimately physical death. The word “surely die” (Hebrew: muwth tamuth) emphasizes the certainty of death as a consequence of disobedience.
The Apostle Paul explains:
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23).
This means sin’s penalty must be paid in death — a just and holy God cannot ignore sin without punishing it. Therefore, for humanity to be reconciled to God, that penalty had to be paid.
Jesus Christ, God’s Son, took upon Himself the punishment we deserved. As Paul writes:
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us…” (Galatians 3:13).
In other words, Jesus stood in our place, bearing the full cost of sin, which is death.
It’s like a binding contract: if one party breaks the terms, they owe a penalty. Humanity broke God’s holy law, and the penalty was death (James 2:10). Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly and accepted the penalty on our behalf.
By His death on the cross, Jesus satisfied God’s justice and demonstrated God’s love (Romans 5:8). His resurrection proves victory over sin and death, opening the way for us to have eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:17–22).
So, Jesus’ death wasn’t just a tragic event, but the divine plan of salvation, because there was no alternative way to remove the debt of sin except through His sacrifice.
Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
If you haven’t yet, now is the time, because the door of mercy won’t remain open forever (Revelation 3:20).
“Come, Lord Jesus!”
“No one asks me, ‘Where are you going?’” — What did Jesus mean? (John 16:5)
Question: When Jesus said, “None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’” in John 16:5, what did He mean?
Answer:
Let’s explore the context and theology behind this statement:
John 16:5-7
“But now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things.
But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.”
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus spoke to His disciples about His imminent departure. Theologically, this moment is pivotal. Jesus’ going “to him who sent me” refers to His return to the Father (cf. John 14:28). This signals the completion of His earthly mission of redemption.
The disciples’ failure to ask “Where are you going?” reflects their deep sorrow and confusion. Their grief was so overwhelming that it blocked their natural curiosity and concern. This illustrates how emotional distress can cloud spiritual understanding. They were focused on the loss they were about to experience rather than the divine plan unfolding.
Jesus’ departure is necessary for the coming of the Holy Spirit—the Advocate or Helper (Greek: Parakletos). The Holy Spirit’s role (cf. John 14:16-17, 26) is to continue Jesus’ work on earth by guiding, teaching, and empowering the disciples for ministry. Jesus assures them that His physical absence will be replaced by the Spirit’s presence in a new, intimate way.
This transition from Jesus’ physical presence to the Spirit’s indwelling presence fulfills Jesus’ promise of ongoing fellowship with believers (John 14:18). The Spirit acts as a comforter and guide, enabling believers to live out the gospel boldly.
When the Spirit came at Pentecost (Acts 2), the disciples were transformed. Their sorrow turned into courage and joy—a pattern for all believers who receive the Spirit.
What about you?
Have you received the Holy Spirit?
The Bible teaches that receiving the Spirit comes through faith in Jesus, repentance, and baptism, symbolizing the washing away of sin and new life in Christ.
Acts 2:38-39
“Peter replied, ‘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.
The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.’”
Repentance means turning from sin and turning toward God. Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). Receiving the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live transformed lives and fulfill God’s mission.
If you haven’t yet, put your trust in Jesus, repent sincerely, and be baptized as an outward expression of your new faith—and the Spirit will come to dwell in you.
May the Lord bless you and guide you by His Spirit.
Why Do False Prophets Cast Out Demons in the Name of JESUS?
Question:
How can false prophets, who have no genuine relationship with the true God, still cast out demons using the name of JESUS? Are they using God’s power—or Satan’s?
Answer: Understanding the Mystery of False Prophets
To answer this, we must approach the issue with a biblical and theological lens. There are two main categories of false prophets found both in Scripture and in today’s context:
1. Those Who Use Demonic Power (Fully Deceived)
These individuals operate entirely under satanic influence. They do not preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, nor do they truly invoke His name. Instead, they use occult practices under the disguise of Christianity—what Paul calls “a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:5).
Though they may dress in religious clothing and quote Scripture, they are, in essence, wolves in sheep’s clothing.
Matthew 7:15
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
2. Those Who Still Use the Name of JESUS but Have No Relationship with Him
This group is more dangerous because they appear to be genuine. They may have once walked with God but have since drifted, or they use ministry as a means for personal gain (see Philippians 3:18–19). Some may have received a genuine spiritual gift or anointing from God in the past, but now live in disobedience.
And yet—miracles can still happen in their ministry. Why?
Biblical Example: Moses and the Rock (Numbers 20:7–12)
God instructed Moses to speak to the rock, but he struck it instead. Despite his disobedience, water still came out of the rock.
Numbers 20:11
“Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.”
This shows us that God, in His mercy, may still act for the sake of His people—even if the leader is disobedient. But that leader still faces consequences.
Spiritual Gifts Are Not the Same as God’s Approval
Spiritual gifts (like prophecy, healing, or miracles) are not always a sign of spiritual maturity or right standing with God. Paul explains this in:
Romans 11:29
“For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.”
This means someone may still operate in a gift even after they have strayed from the faith. But Jesus makes it clear: miracles are not proof of salvation.
Matthew 7:22–23
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
How Then Do We Identify True Prophets and Ministers?
Not by their power, but by their fruit—their life and the result of their ministry.
Matthew 7:16, 20
“By their fruit you will recognize them… Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”
Two Kinds of Fruit to Examine:
- The Fruit of Their Life (Character):
Do they live according to the Word of God? Do they show evidence of the Holy Spirit?Galatians 5:22–23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”A person living in sin or greed, despite working miracles, is not a faithful servant of Christ.
- The Fruit of Their Ministry (Impact):
Are the people under their teaching growing in godliness and holiness?
If the people they serve remain worldly, disobedient, or unchanged, that’s a sign the ministry is not bearing the fruit of God.
2 Peter 2:1–2
“There will be false teachers among you… Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.”
Another Example: The Lying Old Prophet (1 Kings 13:11–32)
In this story, an old prophet lies to a younger one and causes his downfall. Surprisingly, he still receives a true prophecy afterward.
This shows that a person can operate in prophetic gifts even after falling into deception—again proving that gifts are not the measure of a person’s standing with God.
1 John 4:1
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
John 10:41
“Though John never performed a sign, all that John said about this man was true.”
To identify a true prophet, pastor, apostle, or teacher, don’t be impressed by their power—examine their fruit.
Look at their lifestyle. Look at the effect of their ministry. Do they point people to holiness, truth, and Christ-likeness?
Miracles can deceive, but fruits don’t lie.
Matthew 7:21
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
May the Lord give us discernment, humility, and wisdom in these last days. Amen.
Why Did Jesus Allow the Demons to Enter the Pigs?
📖 The Story at a Glance
In Luke 8:31–32, we read:
“And they begged Him not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged Him to let them enter these. So He gave them permission.”
The same story is echoed in Matthew 8:29, where the demons cried out:
“What have You to do with us, O Son of God? Have You come here to torment us before the time?”
These verses record a strange event where Jesus allowed demons to leave a man and enter a herd of pigs. The pigs then rushed into a lake and drowned.
This raises an important question:
Why did Jesus listen to the demons at all? Why not just cast them out or destroy them directly?
Let’s look at this theologically and practically.
✨ 1. Jesus Was Demonstrating the Reality of the Spiritual Realm
If Jesus had simply cast out the demons without any visible effect, people might have doubted the miracle. They might’ve said, “Maybe he just had a mental illness,” or “Maybe he calmed down after seeing Jesus.”
But by allowing the demons to enter the pigs—who immediately ran into the lake and drowned—it provided undeniable, physical evidence that something real and destructive had left the man.
This act served as a visible confirmation of what had occurred spiritually.
Jesus knew people needed to understand that evil is not just metaphorical—it’s real, active, and dangerous. In John 10:10, Jesus says:
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
The destruction of the pigs was a dramatic symbol of the true nature of demonic forces—they seek to destroy whatever they possess.
⏳ 2. It Was Not Yet Time for Final Judgment
In Matthew 8:29, the demons ask, “Have You come here to torment us before the time?” This shows they were aware of their future judgment.
According to Revelation 20:10, the final destination of Satan and his demons is the lake of fire:
“And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur… and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
The demons knew this was coming, but not yet. Jesus, in His divine wisdom, respected the prophetic timeline. He didn’t rush judgment because the fullness of God’s plan—centered in His death and resurrection—was still unfolding.
🧠 3. Jesus Showed His Complete Authority Over the Spiritual Realm
Even though the demons begged, they did not command Jesus—He permitted them. This reveals Christ’s absolute authority.
Colossians 2:15 says:
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
Even before the cross, Jesus was showing glimpses of that final triumph. His ability to command demons, and their submission to Him, shows us who holds the true power.
🙌 What Does This Mean for Us Today?
🛡️ You Have Authority in Christ
Jesus’ authority over demons wasn’t just for that one day. It was also a model for us. In Luke 10:19, Jesus tells His followers:
“I have given you authority… to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
We don’t engage demons in conversation or negotiation. We cast them out in Jesus’ name. The demons in the story surrendered to Jesus before He even spoke—because of the power in Him. That same power now works through believers.
✅ Takeaway: Walk in the Authority You’ve Been Given
Jesus allowed the demons to enter the pigs to show the reality of evil, the power of God, and the order in God’s redemptive plan. This was not about mercy to demons, but about a teaching moment for people—and for us today.
So:
- Recognize evil for what it is.
- Understand that Jesus is above every demonic force.
- Use the authority He gave you.
James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
May the Lord strengthen your faith, sharpen your discernment, and empower you to walk in boldness.
God bless you.
“They took Him along, just as He was, in the boat.”
(Mark 4:35–36)
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him.
This brief but powerful verse paints a vivid picture of the humanity and mission-driven life of Jesus Christ. After a long day of teaching crowds, Jesus doesn’t pause for refreshment or comfort—He simply continues to the next mission destination, just as He was.
The Humanity and Sacrifice of Jesus
This phrase—“just as He was”—points to Jesus’ genuine humanity. He experienced fatigue, hunger, and emotional strain. This aligns with the doctrine of the Incarnation (John 1:14), which teaches that the Son of God became fully human while remaining fully divine.
We see this again in John 4, during His encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well:
“Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.”
(John 4:6)
Jesus was weary from travel—just as any of us would be. Yet when the woman arrived, He did not prioritize His physical need for rest or food. Instead, He immediately turned to the deeper spiritual need before Him. When His disciples returned with food, His response was profound:
“I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”
(John 4:32)
This illustrates a key theological truth: the obedience of Christ (Philippians 2:6–8). Jesus consistently placed the Father’s mission above His own needs, revealing a divine purpose that surpassed human limitations.
Urgency of the Mission
In Mark 4, Jesus doesn’t ask for a break before setting out. His decision to cross over to the other side of the lake at night shows the urgency of God’s mission. His movements were not dictated by comfort or routine, but by divine direction (John 5:19).
That the disciples took Him “just as He was” reminds us that ministry isn’t always neat or convenient. The gospel advances not through human perfection but through faith and obedience.
Jesus was so physically exhausted that He fell asleep in the boat—even as a storm raged around Him:
“Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion.”
(Mark 4:38)
This again affirms the real physical toll His ministry took and His trust in the Father’s care.
What Does This Teach Us?
Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). The same readiness and urgency He had then, He still has now.
As believers, we often think we need to be fully prepared before God can use us—prepared with long fasts, perfect prayers, biblical knowledge, or ministry training. While those things have value (2 Timothy 2:15), they are not prerequisites for God to act. What He asks for is our availability and obedience.
God often works through our weakness, not our strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). He calls us to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Just as the disciples took Jesus into the boat as He was, we are called to receive and follow Him as we are, trusting that He will work through us.
Don’t Wait—Go Now
When Jesus sent out the Twelve, He didn’t give them wealth or resources. He gave them Himself and His authority:
“Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts—no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.”
(Matthew 10:9–10)
The theological principle here is missional dependence—total reliance on God’s provision and presence, not on material preparation.
Even today, Jesus is not asking for elaborate setups or perfection. He’s simply saying, “Take Me just as I am—and go.” He is ready to walk with you into your family, your workplace, your church, your mission field—wherever He leads.
The Call to Willingness
The story of Jesus being taken “just as He was” is not just a historical detail—it’s a discipleship principle. Are we willing to follow Christ with that same urgency and trust? Are we ready to serve without needing every condition to be perfect?
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
(Matthew 6:33)
Let’s stop waiting. Let’s stop hesitating. Let’s take Jesus—just as He is—and follow Him into whatever He has called us to do.
May the Lord give us hearts that are ready and willing to serve Him in every season and situation.
God bless you.
What Does “A Person Shall Bear Their Own Sin” Mean? (Leviticus 5:17)
Question: What does God’s Word mean when it says, “a person shall bear their own sin or guilt”?
Answer: Let’s examine the Scriptures closely.
Leviticus 5:17 states:
“If a person sins, doing any one of the things that by the Lord’s commandments ought not to be done, though he did not know it, he is still guilty and shall bear his iniquity.”
This passage highlights the principle of individual moral responsibility—each person is accountable before God for their own sins, whether willful or ignorant. Theologically, this aligns with the doctrine of personal accountability (Ezekiel 18:20,: “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father…”).
Similarly, Leviticus 24:15-16 says:
“Whoever curses God shall bear his sin. Whoever blasphemes the name of the Lord shall be put to death.”
Here we see the seriousness of sin against God’s holiness, where the sinner alone bears the guilt.
Retributive Justice in the Old Testament
The Old Testament law operated under the principle of lex talionis (“law of retaliation”), expressed in passages such as Exodus 21:23-25:
“But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot…”
This principle was meant to limit excessive punishment and ensure justice was proportional, not vengeful. It demonstrated God’s justice and holiness in maintaining order (Deuteronomy 19:21).
Leviticus 24:17-20 reiterates this principle:
“Whoever kills a human being shall be put to death. Whoever kills an animal shall make it good, life for life. If anyone injures his neighbor, as he has done it shall be done to him: fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth…”
No Retribution for Punishment Executed Under God’s Command
In certain cases, such as blasphemy or idolatry, those who executed God’s judgment were not punished. For example, the blasphemer was stoned (Leviticus 24:14-16), but those who carried out the sentence did not bear guilt for murder.
This reflects the theological distinction between divine justice and human vengeance. The punishment was ordained by God, so the sinner alone bore responsibility for the sin and its consequences. This is the sense in which “the one who died bears their own sin” — the sin and guilt do not transfer to the executioners.
Bearing the Sin of an Innocent Person
If someone killed an innocent person, the killers bore the guilt of murder and were to be punished (Numbers 35:30: “Whoever kills a person shall be put to death…”). This is referred to as “bearing the blood” of another (Genesis 9:5-6), emphasizing the sacredness of human life as made in God’s image (Imago Dei).
New Testament Teaching on Justice and Vengeance
In the New Testament, the principle of personal accountability remains (Romans 14:12: “So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”), but the approach to justice changes radically.
Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:38-39:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
This reveals the kingdom ethic of forgiveness and grace, replacing strict retribution.
Paul reiterates in Romans 12:19:
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
Thus, the New Testament forbids personal vengeance, emphasizing God’s justice and mercy.
May the Lord help us live responsibly and humbly before Him, trusting His justice and mercy.
What’s the Difference Between Life and Eternal Life According to the Bible?
When we talk about “life”, we usually mean natural, physical life—the ability to breathe, grow, eat, and move. This life is shared by all living creatures—humans, animals, and plants. It is the life of the body.
The Bible confirms this natural life:
“The righteous care for the life of their animals, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel.”
— Proverbs 12:10
This Life is the biological life God has given to living beings. It is necessary for survival, but it is temporary and limited to this earthly existence.
What is Life? The Spiritual and Eternal Life
The Bible reveals a deeper kind of life called “Eternal Life”, which is best understood as eternal life or spiritual life. This life is not merely physical existence but a quality of life that comes from knowing God personally through Jesus Christ.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
— John 10:10
Here, Jesus contrasts the natural life with the abundant life that He gives—a life characterized by fullness, joy, and eternal significance.
Body vs. Spirit
- Life refers to the physical life of the body, shared with all living creatures (Genesis 2:7; Psalm 104:29-30). Plants and animals have life but do not have eternal life.
- Eternal life refers to spiritual life, the life of the soul that continues forever and is found only in a restored relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
— John 17:3
This verse defines eternal life not just as endless existence but as knowing God personally, emphasizing the relational aspect of Eternal life.
Why Does This Matter?
Anyone outside of Christ has physical life but lacks eternal life. They are alive in the body but spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1).
“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…”
— Ephesians 2:1
Those who receive Christ are given eternal life, which transcends physical death.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
— John 3:36
Do you have eternal life in you?
Is Jesus Christ truly a part of your life, or are you only alive physically?
Without Christ, life is limited to this world and ends with death. With Christ, life continues forever, in intimate relationship with God.
The Lord is coming!
“You Will Be the Head and Not the Tail” — What Does That Really Mean?
In Deuteronomy 28:13, God makes a profound promise to His covenant people:
“The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.”
What Does It Mean to Be “the Head and Not the Tail”?
This phrase is a metaphor used within the blessings section of Deuteronomy 28, where God outlines the results of obedience to His covenant. To be “the head” symbolizes leadership, prominence, influence, and divine favor. In contrast, “the tail” symbolizes subordination, shame, and disadvantage.
This speaks to God’s design for His people to reflect His glory through obedience. Those who align with His will are elevated, while those who rebel fall under consequences. This aligns with the biblical theme found throughout the Torah and the Prophets: obedience brings blessing; disobedience brings curse (see also Deuteronomy 30:15–20).
Why Not Say “the Head and Not the Foot”?
It’s interesting that Scripture doesn’t contrast the “head” with the “foot,” but with the “tail.” This suggests that the imagery comes from the anatomy of animals—creatures that have both heads and tails.
- The head represents direction, decision-making, and nourishment—it receives food and leads the body.
- The tail is at the very end, following wherever the body moves. It is also near the part of the body where waste exits—symbolically linked to what is undesirable, dirty, and secondary.
From a theological perspective, this shows us a picture of two types of people:
- Those who fear and obey God: They are leaders, recipients of God’s best, and influencers in the world (Matthew 5:14–16).
- Those who reject God’s ways: They end up followers of the world, recipients of defilement and disgrace, pushed around by circumstances instead of being guided by divine wisdom.
Jesus affirms this kingdom principle in Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Covenant Context: Blessings for Obedience, Curses for Disobedience
The entire chapter of Deuteronomy 28 outlines the blessings of the covenant (vv. 1–14) and the curses for breaking it (vv. 15–68). The promise to be the head, not the tail, is conditional. It is not automatic—it requires faithful obedience.
Later in the same chapter, we read the consequences of disobedience:
“The foreigners who reside among you will rise above you higher and higher, but you will sink lower and lower. They will lend to you, but you will not lend to them. They will be the head, but you will be the tail.” (Deuteronomy 28:43–44)
This reversal shows what happens when people ignore God’s commands—they lose not only their blessing, but also their position, influence, and dignity.
Spiritual Application Today
While these promises were originally given to Israel under the Old Covenant, their spiritual principles remain true for us today under the New Covenant through Christ. In Christ, we are also called to walk in obedience—not to earn salvation, but as evidence of our transformation (Ephesians 2:10, John 14:15).
God desires His people to be examples in society—those who reflect His justice, truth, and mercy. We are called to lead, not lag behind; to influence, not be controlled by the world.
As Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Those who live according to God’s Word will be like the head—stable, wise, fruitful, and favored.
Choose Your Position
Being the “head” is about more than status—it’s about living under the rule and blessing of God. If we desire that place of blessing, leadership, and purpose, we must listen to God’s voice, follow His Word, and reject the idols and systems of the world.
“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19)
Let’s choose life. Let’s walk in obedience. Let’s live as the head, not the tail.
May the Lord help us. Amen.
Understanding the Difference Between Law and Principle in the Bible
In biblical, it’s important to distinguish between a law (Hebrew: torah or mishpat) and a principle or ordinance (Hebrew: chuqqah or piqqudim). Though related, they are not the same.
A law is a direct, binding command from God—a moral or ceremonial obligation that must be followed.
A principle (or ordinance) refers to the detailed instructions or regulations that guide how the law is to be carried out.
This distinction helps us understand how God communicates both what He wants from us and how to fulfill it.
Biblical Example: The Passover
In Exodus 12, God commands the Israelites to observe the Passover—this is the law. But alongside the law, He gives very specific principles about how it should be observed.
“This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you… On the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb…”
(Exodus 12:2–3)
The law is: “You shall keep the Passover.”
The principles include:
- It must be on the 14th day of the first month,
- A lamb without blemish must be selected and slaughtered,
- It must be roasted with fire,
- It must be eaten with bitter herbs and unleavened bread.
These details are not additional laws—they are regulations that guide the proper keeping of the one law.
“You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever.”
(Exodus 12:24)
Law and Principle Unified: Numbers 9:14
“You shall have one statute, both for the sojourner and for the native, for him who does any of these things.”
(Numbers 9:14)
This verse affirms that both the law and its principles applied to everyone—Israelite and foreigner alike. Obedience to God’s commands required attention not just to what was commanded, but how it was to be practiced.
Application in the New Covenant: The Law of Christ
In the New Testament, believers are no longer under the Mosaic Law (Galatians 3:24–25), but under the Law of Christ, which is summarized in love.
“For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
(Galatians 5:14)
However, even love has principles—practical expressions that define what true, godly love looks like.
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude…”
(1 Corinthians 13:4–5)
These are principles of love—guidelines that show how to obey the law of Christ in daily life. Love is not left undefined; Scripture teaches us how to love.
Biblical Pattern: Precept Upon Precept
God often reveals His will progressively—through both laws and the principles that support them.
“And the word of the Lord will be to them: precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little…”
(Isaiah 28:13)
This verse reflects the pedagogical method of Scripture—God teaches us step by step, helping us build understanding over time.
Understanding the difference between law and principle deepens our walk with God. The law gives the command; the principles guide the application. From the Old Testament to the New, God has always desired not just external obedience, but thoughtful, informed, and wholehearted devotion.
Let us therefore study both the commandments of Christ and the principles that teach us how to live them out daily.
Come, Lord Jesus! – Revelation 22:20
