What Does “The Law and the Prophets” Mean?
Question:
When reading the Bible, we often come across the phrase “the Law and the Prophets.” What exactly does this expression mean? For example, Jesus says in:
Matthew 7:12 (NIV):
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Answer:
When Jesus refers to “the Law and the Prophets,” He is using a common Jewish phrase that summarizes the entire Hebrew Bible, known today as the Old Testament. This phrase broadly categorizes the Scriptures into two major sections:
1. The Law (Torah):
This refers to the first five books of the Bible, also called the Pentateuch or Books of Moses:
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Genesis
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Exodus
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Leviticus
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Numbers
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Deuteronomy
These books contain the historical narrative of creation, the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob), the Exodus from Egypt, and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. They are foundational to understanding God’s covenant with Israel.
2. The Prophets (Nevi’im):
This includes both the Former Prophets (like Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings) and the Latter Prophets (like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the twelve Minor Prophets Hosea through Malachi). These books contain historical records, divine warnings, promises, messianic prophecies, and calls to repentance and justice.
Additionally, Jesus and the Jews of His time often grouped the Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Ruth, and other writings under a third category called the Writings (Ketuvim) though sometimes these were also included under “the Prophets” in casual reference.
Theological Significance:
When Jesus said, “this sums up the Law and the Prophets,” He was declaring that the entire Old Testament can be summarized by the principle of love especially the love that acts toward others with justice, mercy, and compassion.
This aligns with another of Jesus’ key teachings:
Matthew 22:37–40 (NIV):
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Here, Jesus distills the entire moral and spiritual thrust of the Old Testament into two commandments: Love God and Love your neighbor. These are not new ideas; they are rooted in the Torah itself (see Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18).
Application for Believers Today:
Even as New Covenant believers, this principle of love remains the foundation of our faith. The Apostle Paul reinforces this in his teaching:
Romans 13:10 (NIV):
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
1 Corinthians 13:1–3 (NIV):
1. If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
2. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
3. 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.
Paul emphasizes that no matter how gifted or sacrificial we may be, without love, we are spiritually empty.
Shalom.
DON’T ABANDON YOUR GARMENTS AND GO NAKED
(A Theological Reflection on Revelation 16:15)
“Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.”
Revelation 16:15, NKJV
Spiritual Vigilance and Holiness: A Lifelong Calling
In this passage, Jesus offers both a warning and a promise: He is returning unexpectedly like a thief in the night and blessed are those who remain spiritually alert and keep their garments.
In biblical symbolism, garments often represent righteousness, character, or spiritual status. To be clothed in Scripture means to be covered in the holiness of God either imputed through Christ (justification) or expressed through our obedient life (sanctification).
The Garment of Righteousness
The “garment” referred to in Revelation 16:15 is tied directly to the believer’s conduct and standing before God. We see a more explicit definition in:
Revelation 19:8 (NKJV):
“And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.”
This verse defines the fine linen as righteous deeds not righteousness by works alone, but righteousness that flows from faith in Christ (cf. James 2:17). This aligns with Paul’s teachings that salvation is by grace through faith, but it produces fruit in a changed life (Ephesians 2:8–10).
A Biblical Example: The Young Man Who Fled Naked
A physical example of “losing one’s garment” is found during Jesus’ arrest:
Mark 14:51–52 (NKJV):
“Now a certain young man followed Him, having a linen cloth thrown around his naked body. And the young men laid hold of him,
And he left the linen cloth and fled from them naked.”
This young man (possibly John Mark himself) had followed Jesus closely even boldly but when danger came, he abandoned his garment and ran. This moment illustrates how fear and pressure can cause believers to abandon their spiritual covering, choosing safety or comfort over fidelity to Christ.
What It Means to Walk Spiritually Naked
To “walk naked” before God is a biblical image of spiritual shame, exposure, and judgment. Adam and Eve became aware of their nakedness after sinning (Genesis 3:7–10). In Revelation, spiritual nakedness reflects a life devoid of God’s righteousness:
Revelation 3:17–18 (NKJV):
“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked
I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed,
that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed…”
Jesus warns the church of Laodicea: Self-confidence without holiness is deadly. A spiritual life without the garment of Christ’s righteousness will leave us exposed at His coming.
Trials and the Temptation to Abandon Righteousness
Many today are tempted to lay down their garments to compromise their convictions under the weight of trials. Whether due to rejection, persecution, workplace pressure, or relational conflicts, some choose to walk away from their walk with Christ and return to the world.
But Scripture calls us to persevere, especially when it’s hard:
Mark 8:35 (NKJV):
“For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.”
This echoes the cost of discipleship. We are not promised an easy life, but we are promised eternal life and the presence of Christ in our suffering.
A Final Reminder: He Is Coming Like a Thief
Jesus repeatedly uses the image of a thief in the night to describe His sudden return (see Matthew 24:42–44; 1 Thessalonians 5:2). He is not promoting fear but readiness. Only those who remain spiritually awake and clothed in righteousness will be unashamed when He comes.
Application Questions:Have you abandoned your spiritual garment your commitment to holiness due to pressure or discouragement?Are you walking “naked” in the sight of God, having exchanged righteousness for compromise?Are you staying spiritually alert, or have you grown cold and careless in your walk?
Maranatha.
Do Not Curse the Deaf or Put a Stumbling Block Before the Blind
Leviticus 19:14 (NIV)
“Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the Lord.”
This powerful command from Leviticus belongs to God’s holiness code, where He calls His people to live with justice, compassion, and reverence. In this verse, God forbids exploiting the vulnerable specifically those who are deaf or blind as a profound metaphor for how we should treat all who are weak or dependent.
The “deaf” and “blind” here are literal but also symbolic. They represent people who, due to limitation or ignorance, are at risk of being taken advantage of. The “stumbling block” is anything that causes them to fall or harm themselves, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual.
Why does God emphasize this?
Because God is a God of justice and mercy (Micah 6:8), and He calls His people to reflect His character. Exploiting others’ weaknesses is not only unjust; it is a failure to honor God’s holiness and love. This verse reminds us that fearing God means protecting and respecting the vulnerable, not harming them.
Practical Examples of Exploiting Vulnerability
Consider a blind person trying to cross a busy street. Naturally, one would help guide them safely, showing compassion and kindness. To deliberately put them in harm’s way is cruel and inhumane.
Sadly, this kind of behavior exists in everyday life. For example, someone wanting to buy a phone might not understand its quality. Instead of advising honestly, a dishonest seller might deceive the buyer, selling a counterfeit product at the price of a genuine one. The buyer, unaware of the fraud, suffers loss. This is exactly what Leviticus condemns putting a “stumbling block before the blind.”
This kind of dishonesty is an affront to God’s justice. Throughout Scripture, God condemns deceit and calls for integrity (Proverbs 11:1; Proverbs 20:23). Sadly, such behavior is widespread and reflects a sinful heart that has not been transformed by God’s grace.
The story of Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3) reminds us how Satan exploited her “blindness” to good and evil to deceive her. Instead of guiding her in obedience, Satan’s deception led to sin entering the world. Likewise, people today misuse others’ ignorance or weakness for selfish gain, continuing the legacy of sin.
Other Examples
Sometimes, people use shortcuts to increase profit at others’ expense. For example, a cook might add fillers or harmful substances to food to increase quantity, knowing customers won’t notice. This is not only dishonest but endangers others’ health, deeply displeasing to God (Proverbs 12:22).
Even more heartbreaking are religious leaders or servants who exploit people’s spiritual or emotional vulnerabilities threatening or deceiving them to extract money or power. Jesus Himself condemned such hypocrisy and exploitation (Matthew 23:14).
Our Call as Followers of God
God’s call is for us to be like Job, who said:
Job 29:15 (NIV)
“I was eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame.”
We are called to serve and support those in need, guiding them rightly and protecting them from harm. To “fear the Lord” means to honor Him by acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly (Micah 6:8).
When we protect the vulnerable and live in integrity, we reflect God’s character and experience His blessings “many good days” in His world (Psalm 91:16)
Shalom.
Repair Your Nets, Clean Your Nets
Shalom! I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, let us explore a powerful spiritual principle hidden in the everyday life of fishermen a principle with direct application to those called to the ministry and to every believer involved in the work of soul winning.
The Practical Lesson: Fishermen Don’t Just Fish
When we think of fishermen, we often imagine them casting their nets into the sea, catching fish, returning home, and repeating the process the next day. But anyone who has spent time with real fishermen knows the truth: fishing is not just about casting and collecting it’s also about preparing, maintaining, and repairing the tools of the trade.
After each fishing trip regardless of whether they caught anything or not fishermen are required to clean their nets and, if necessary, repair them. Why?
Because nets don’t just catch fish. They gather seaweed, mud, trash, and debris. If neglected, these contaminants begin to rot, attracting vermin and weakening the material. Dead fish stuck in the net begin to decompose and further damage the fibers. Left unchecked, holes develop, making the net useless.
A clean net is an effective net.
Dirty nets are visible in the water, and fish instinctively avoid them. The best nets are nearly invisible just as effective ministry often flows from quiet, unseen disciplines.
Biblical Foundation: Jesus and the Fishermen
Let us examine what the Gospels tell us.
Luke 5:1–5 (NIV)
“One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around Him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets.
He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then He sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’
Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets.’”
Notice the detail: the fishermen were washing their nets, even after a failed night of fishing. Why? Because discipline and preparation are not based on results they’re based on obedience and principle.
Likewise, in another Gospel:
Mark 1:19–20 (NIV)
“When He had gone a little farther, He saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets.
Without delay He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed Him.”
This wasn’t casual maintenance it was intentional preparation, which was part of their livelihood. When Jesus called them, they were actively engaged in maintaining their tools, showing us that faithful servants must care for what God has placed in their hands.
The Spiritual Lesson: The Nets Represent Our Ministries and Our Lives
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus uses fishing imagery to describe evangelism and the call of ministry:
Matthew 4:19 (NIV)
“Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
As followers of Christ especially those called to teach, preach, or witness we are spiritual fishermen. But too often, we focus only on the act of “casting the net” (preaching, evangelizing, leading worship) and neglect the necessary ongoing work of maintenance and sanctification.
How Do We Repair Our Nets?
We repair our spiritual nets with the Word of God.
As Paul instructs Timothy:
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NIV)
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Repairing the net means returning to God’s Word to ensure:Our doctrine is sound (Titus 2:1)Our message is relevant, timely, and Spirit-led (Ecclesiastes 3:1)Our teaching aligns with the Gospel of Christ (Galatians 1:6–9)
If we fail to do this, we risk teaching out of tradition or emotion rather than divine truth. The result? Spiritual holes in our nets. We begin losing people not because they reject Christ, but because they were never truly caught by a whole, well repaired net.
How Do We Clean Our Nets?
We clean our nets by purifying our personal lives.
1 Peter 1:15–16 (NIV)
“But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
Our lives must reflect the message we preach. The power of the Gospel is hindered when the messenger lives in compromise. A dirty net drives fish away just as a compromised testimony repels seekers from the truth.
2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”
This is not about legalism it’s about living lives that don’t contradict our calling. A life of integrity, humility, and sanctification makes the Gospel message attractive and credible.
Final Encouragement: Obedience Precedes Harvest
Remember what Simon Peter said to Jesus in Luke 5:5:
“We’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets.”
That act of obedience, even in discouragement, led to a miraculous catch. But it only happened after:They had washed the nets
- They obeyed the Lord’s instruction
- They trusted the Word over their past experience
Conclusion: Keep Your Nets in Order
Let us, as ministers and believers, never neglect the daily disciplines of:Repairing our understanding and delivery of the WordCleansing our personal lives through sanctification
These are not optional. They are essential for a fruitful, Spirit-led ministry. Just like fishermen care for their nets every day, we too must be faithful in caring for what God has entrusted to us.
John 15:8 (NIV)
“This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be My disciples.”
May the Lord bless you.
Being a Friend of the World Means Being an Enemy of God
James 4:4 (ESV):
“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”
This is one of the most direct and sobering declarations in the New Testament. James, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, compares spiritual compromise with adultery betraying the covenant relationship between God and His people. Being a “friend of the world” means aligning yourself with a system that is fundamentally opposed to God’s will and character.
In biblical terms, “the world” (Greek: kosmos) doesn’t just mean the physical earth or people but rather the fallen world system its values, desires, and ambitions that are rooted in sin, pride, and rebellion against God (cf. John 15:18–19).
The Dangers of Loving the World
1 John 2:15–17 (ESV):
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life is not from the Father but is from the world.
And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”
John lays out three root categories of sin that characterize the world:Desires of the flesh Sinful cravings such as gluttony, lust, drunkenness, and sexual immorality.Desires of the eyes Covetousness, materialism, and a relentless pursuit of wealth and status.Pride of life Arrogance, self-sufficiency, boasting in achievements or possessions.
These are not from God but from the fallen world system under the influence of Satan, who is called the “god of this world” in 2 Corinthians 4:4. The Bible warns that all these things are temporary. They will pass away. Only those who do God’s will shall remain.
The Pride of Life: A Deadly Sin
The “pride of life” includes the refusal to be taught or corrected, often fueled by education, wealth, or power. When someone feels they no longer need God or treat His Word as optional that’s the pride of life.
Jesus warned of this self-deception:
Mark 8:36–37 (ESV):
“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?
For what can a man give in return for his soul?”
Heaven and hell are real. Eternal souls are at stake. Gaining the whole world, while losing eternal life, is the ultimate tragedy.
Biblical Examples of Worldly Pride and Its Consequences
1. King Belshazzar Daniel 5
Belshazzar profaned the holy things of God by using the sacred temple vessels for a drunken party. That night, God judged him. A hand appeared, writing on the wall: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. Daniel interpreted the message: Belshazzar had been weighed and found wanting. He died that very night, and his kingdom fell.
2. The Rich Man and Lazarus Luke 16:19–31
Jesus tells of a rich man who lived in luxury while ignoring a poor beggar named Lazarus. When the rich man died, he found himself in torment, begging for relief. His wealth and worldly status had no value in eternity. He was forever separated from the presence of God.
3. Queen Jezebel 1 Kings 21 & 2 Kings 9
Jezebel, a symbol of rebellion and pride, killed God’s prophets and promoted idolatry. She lived in vanity and self-exaltation. But her end was gruesome God judged her, and she was thrown from a window, and dogs devoured her body.
These accounts are not just stories they are divine warnings.
1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV):
“Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.”
The Call to Repent and Be Saved
The question is personal:
Are you a friend of God, or an enemy of God?
If you still love the sinful ways of the world sexual immorality, drunkenness, gossip, profanity, obsession with fame, fashion, and entertainment you are, by your lifestyle, aligned against God. You don’t have to say it with your mouth; your actions speak for you.
But there is hope. God, in His mercy, calls you to repent.
Acts 2:38 (ESV):
“And Peter said to them, ‘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.'”
Genuine repentance involves a turning away from sin and turning to Christ as Savior and Lord. Biblical baptism (by full immersion, in Jesus’ name) is a public act of faith and obedience. And the Holy Spirit empowers you to walk in holiness, no longer a friend of the world, but a true is that God is coming soon.
Maranatha.
If we are saved by grace, why must we strive to obtain salvation?
QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say, “The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?
ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear there is none.
Ephesians 2:8–9
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
But then the question arises if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
The answer is that we have an enemy Satan who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.
Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have all so that you do not lose your salvation.
That is where the saying
“the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.
For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before to watch and pray and instead, they slept.
Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation or worse, you might lose it entirely.
So, we do not just believe in Jesus and then remain idle no. That is only the first step. The next step is to fight, struggle, and endure pain in order to guard our salvation, because our enemy, the devil, is constantly hunting for it day and night.
QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say,
“The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?
ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear there is none.
Ephesians 2:8–9
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
But then the question arises if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
The answer is that we have an enemy Satan who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.
Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have all so that you do not lose your salvation.
That is where the saying “the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.
For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before to watch and pray and instead, they slept.
Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation or worse, you might lose it entirely.
May the Lord bless you
THE RAPTURE: A SUDDEN AND UNEXPECTED EVENT
In the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, He gave us signs that would precede His second coming. He made it clear that when we observe certain signs earthquakes, wars, pestilences, false prophets, and societal upheavals we should know that His return is near. As recorded in
Matthew 24:3-8 (NKJV), His disciples asked,
“Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”
Jesus answered by describing various signs:
- Wars and rumors of wars (v. 6)
- Famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (v. 7)
- Persecution and betrayal (v. 9-10)
- False prophets leading many astray (v. 11)
He emphasized that these signs would occur as part of the birth pangs, but they would not reveal the exact day of His return. What Jesus never revealed is the precise day when He would come to take His church this remains a mystery. The lack of knowledge regarding the specific time of His return is one of the greatest challenges for Christians today. Despite all the signs being fulfilled in our time, people still look for a specific clue or signal that would alert them to the exact day of the rapture.
The Days of Noah: A Parallel to Christ’s Return
Jesus Himself compared His second coming to the days of Noah, a period of rampant disregard for God’s warning. In
Matthew 24:37-39 (NKJV), Jesus says:
“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”
No one in Noah’s day anticipated the flood. They were consumed with everyday activities, eating, drinking, marrying, and living their lives, completely unaware that God’s judgment was about to descend. Jesus is telling us that His return will be the same it will catch many by surprise. As Noah entered the ark and the rain began, the people were taken unawares, just as the world will be when Christ returns.
This is why, in
Matthew 24:42-44 (NKJV), Jesus urges us to be vigilant:
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
This is a call to spiritual vigilance. The exact day and hour of Christ’s return will remain unknown to everyone, including His faithful followers. Even the “bride of Christ” (the church) will not know the specific time of the rapture. This is why believers are urged to stay spiritually alert, living faithfully according to God’s will until the return of the Lord.
The Parable of the Faithful Servant
Jesus continued His teaching by emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and readiness in
Matthew 24:45-47 (NIV):
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.”
This parable illustrates the importance of doing the work of the Lord while we wait for His return. The faithful servant is one who continues to carry out his duties feeding others, fulfilling his responsibilities, and being diligent in the tasks God has assigned to him. This is the behavior that pleases God and ensures readiness for His return.
The Suddenness of the Rapture
In
1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 (NKJV), Paul wrote about the unexpected nature of the rapture:
“For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.”
The return of Christ, including the rapture of the church, will come as a thief in the night. It will be sudden and unexpected. People will be going about their daily routines planning their futures, building their careers, enjoying their lives when, in an instant, the rapture will occur, and one will be taken, and the other left. This is consistent with
Matthew 24:40-41 (NKJV), where Jesus said:
“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and the other left.”
This illustrates that the rapture will be a selective event. Some will be taken to be with the Lord, while others will be left behind to face the tribulation.
The Regret of Those Left Behind
For those who miss the rapture, the consequences will be devastating. In
Matthew 25:11-12 (NKJV), Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the regret of those who were unprepared:
“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'”
The unprepared virgins represent those who failed to be spiritually ready for Christ’s return. When the door is shut, it will be too late for them to change their fate. They will be left in regret and sorrow, wishing they had been ready.
Similarly, in Luke 13:25-28 (NIV), Jesus speaks of the regret of those who are shut out of the Kingdom:
“Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.'”
The time for repentance and preparation is now. Once Christ returns, there will be no more opportunities for repentance. The regret that follows will be eternal.
The Urgency of Repentance
There is still time, though it is very short. As we wait for the return of Christ, there is an urgent call for repentance.
In 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV), we are reminded that:
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Christ is offering one last opportunity for sinners to turn to Him before the rapture occurs. Today is the day of salvation. If you have not yet repented and placed your trust in Jesus Christ, do so now. Acknowledge your sin, turn away from it, and receive the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Conclusion: Be Ready, for the Lord’s Return Is Near
In these final moments before Christ’s return, there is still a chance to make things right with God. The signs are clear, and the day of Christ’s return is drawing near. The rapture will come unexpectedly, and only those who are ready, living in faith and obedience to Christ, will be taken.
Shalom.
THE SACRED INVITATION OF NEW YEAR’S EVE: WATCHING AND WORSHIPPING AT THE THRESHOLD OF A NEW BEGINNING
Each year, as the final hours of December draw to a close, we stand at a spiritual threshold. This moment New Year’s Eve is not simply a cultural tradition or a festive pause; it is, for the believer, a sacred opportunity. It is a time to reflect, to realign, and to respond to God with gratitude and reverence. Sadly, this opportunity is too often ignored, treated as an ordinary night, or filled with distractions and indulgences.
Yet the Bible reminds us: God works powerfully in the watches of the night. He meets His people not just in the brightness of day, but also in the stillness of midnight.
1. The Night of Deliverance: A Pattern of Preparation
When God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, it wasn’t in broad daylight it was at midnight. The moment of liberation from oppression came in the dark, while the faithful were watching and obeying.
“In this manner you shall eat it: with your belt fastened, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. And you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.”
(Exodus 12:11, ESV)
“For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord.”
(Exodus 12:12, ESV)
That night, they were not lounging or sleeping. They were alert. They were dressed, not in leisure, but for movement. They were eating in haste, ready to move into freedom. Spiritually, this moment represented transition from bondage to deliverance, from an old system to a new covenant identity.
What if they had ignored that night? What if they had treated it as common? They would have missed the miracle.
2. Midnight as a Spiritual Turning Point
The “midnight hour” in Scripture is often symbolic of transition, divine intervention, and deliverance. Consider Paul and Silas in prison:
“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake… and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.”
(Acts 16:25–26, ESV)
It was not during the day, but at midnight, when worship broke open prison doors. Midnight signifies more than just a time on the clock it marks a spiritual shift, a divine moment where God acts in response to the faithfulness of His people.
3. A Call to Watchfulness and Thanksgiving
As we approach the new year, the call is clear: do not sleep through the threshold of change. Be spiritually awake. Jesus warned His disciples:
“Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.”
(Matthew 24:42, ESV)
“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
(Matthew 26:41, ESV)
New Year’s Eve is a time to thank God for His sustaining grace, to surrender your plans to Him, and to declare His lordship over the days to come. The changing of the calendar should not find you idle, distracted, or distant from God but present in His presence.
4. A Night to Remember His Faithfulness
Consider the trials and uncertainties of the past year. You are not standing at this threshold by accident. You are here because of grace.
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
(Lamentations 3:22–23, ESV)
God has preserved you not by your own strength, wisdom, or wealth but by His mercy. To begin a new year without acknowledging His hand is to miss the point entirely.
5. A Sacred Invitation
Whether you gather in a church or in your home, this night is sacred. Turn off the noise. Set aside the distractions. Gather your household just as the Israelites did and seek God together. Worship. Pray. Reflect. Consecrate the year ahead.
Even if you are in a place where public worship is restricted, your home can become a holy place. The Spirit of God is not confined by buildings.
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
(Matthew 18:20, ESV)
6. Share and Encourage Others
This is not a message to keep to yourself. Remind others of the importance of this night. Encourage them to return to the Lord with grateful hearts and watchful spirits
May your new year be marked by spiritual renewal, divine favor, and deep intimacy with the Lord. May you walk in freedom, bear fruit in every good work, and live with eyes fixed on Christ the Author and Perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2).
UNDERSTANDING THE JOY AND SORROW OF HEAVEN
Shalom, and welcome again to this sacred moment of reflection on the Word of our Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture tells us that many prophets and wise men, longing to see the fulfillment of God’s promises, desired to hear and experience what we now have in the Gospel. Yet, they were not granted this privilege. As it is written in 1 Peter 1:10-12 (NIV):
“Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.”
But by God’s grace, you and I are now recipients of the grace of hearing and understanding the Gospel message. This is a treasure of unspeakable worth and an immense privilege. What joy we should feel for this gift!
Jesus, who created the world by His Word (see John 1:1-3, NIV), now draws near to us through His Word to teach and transform us. How could we, as His followers, neglect to meditate on this living Word that holds eternal life? As
Psalm119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” With His help, we will continue to treasure and ponder His Word daily.
Let us now reflect once again on a parable shared by Jesus that captures the heart of God’s grace: the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. These are found in Luke 15:3-10 (NIV):
Luke 15:3-7 (The Parable of the Lost Sheep):
“Then Jesus told them this parable: ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.” I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.’”
Luke 15:8-10 (The Parable of the Lost Coin):
“Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
In these parables, the joy does not come from acquiring something new, but from recovering something that was once lost. The shepherd does not find a new sheep, nor does the woman gain a new coin. Instead, they rejoice because what was valuable and lost is now found and restored to its rightful place.
This is the kind of joy that the Lord describes in Luke 15:7 and Luke 15:10 a joy that arises not from the accumulation of new things but from the restoration of that which was precious and lost. Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents and this joy is not just a human joy but one that is shared by the angels themselves.
This spiritual truth teaches us that God’s joy is not based on novelty or the acquisition of something new, but on the restoration and reconciliation of lost souls to Himself. This is the essence of the Gospel: God seeks and saves the lost (Luke 19:10, NIV). Just as the shepherd goes after the lost sheep and the woman searches for the lost coin, so too does God pursue each person with relentless love.
In theological terms, this joy is rooted in the doctrine of redemption. The Bible teaches that humanity was lost due to sin, separated from God and destined for eternal separation. But through Christ’s death and resurrection, God offers restoration. The atonement of Christ is what makes this reconciliation possible, as
Romans 5:8 (NIV) says:”But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
The joy of heaven is the direct result of the atoning work of Christ, and it finds its full expression when one sinner repents and turns back to God.
A Personal Reflection:
Consider a scenario from everyday life to understand this spiritual reality more fully. Imagine you lose your phone, something valuable to you. You feel upset, perhaps even angry. Then, a week later, you receive a call from the police your phone has been recovered. The joy you feel is not because it’s a new phone, but because it is your phone, the one that was once lost. In this small but personal experience, you can begin to understand the joy of the angels when one soul returns to God.
It’s the same with God’s joy. He rejoices over the restoration of a lost soul, not because something new has been gained, but because His creation, made in His image, has returned to Him.
2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV) says, “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
This is the heart of the Gospel reconciliation.
The Eternal Sorrow and Joy in Heaven:
For those who have strayed from God, Heaven watches with great sorrow. As
Ezekiel 18:32 (NIV) warns, “For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!”
But when someone turns back, repenting of their sin and trusting in Christ, there is unparalleled joy not just in the hearts of the redeemed, but in the hearts of the angels and the very presence of God Himself.
Jesus does not desire that anyone should perish.
2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Luke 15:10 shows that when a sinner repents, “there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God.”
This signifies not only God’s personal joy but also the communal joy of the heavenly host. The heavenly joy over one sinner’s repentance is not casual; it’s a deep, celebratory, communal experience in heaven.
A Call to Repentance:
If you are reading this and you realize that you, like the lost sheep or the lost coin, have wandered away from God whether you have fallen into sin or drifted from Him there is good news for you todays.
1 John 1:9 (NIV) assures us:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
This is the grace extended to all who repent and return to Him.
The time is short. Life is fragile.
James 4:14 (NIV) says, “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
Eternity is forever, and today is the day to make things right with God.
If you have walked away from God, know that He is waiting for you to return. As the prodigal son was welcomed back with open arms, so too does God welcome you.
Romans 10:13 (NIV) assures us:
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
God’s heart is for you. Heaven’s joy awaits your return. Do not delay. Repent, return to Christ, and receive the forgiveness that only He can offer.
May the Lord bless you
Why You Should Seek to Be the Bride of Christ in These Last Days
The Call to Intimacy with Christ
The Christian life is not merely about believing in Jesus, attending church, or identifying with a religious label. It is about entering into a covenantal relationship with Jesus Christ, the Bridegroom of the Church. In
John 3:29 (ESV),
John the Baptist says:
“The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete.”
This imagery of the Bride and Bridegroom is used throughout Scripture to describe the deep, intimate union God desires with His people culminating in the marriage between Christ and the Church (cf. Ephesians 5:25–27).
1. Not All Who Profess Faith Are the Bride
Many assume that being a Christian is synonymous with being the Bride of Christ. However, the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1–13 (ESV) presents a sobering truth. All ten were waiting for the Bridegroom, but only five entered the wedding feast:
“And the door was shut. Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’” (vv. 10b–12)
Here, Jesus makes a distinction not between believers and unbelievers, but between the prepared and the unprepared those filled with the Holy Spirit (oil) and those who were not.
Theologically, we can say that this parable distinguishes between nominal Christianity (faith in name only) and regenerate Christianity (faith expressed through obedience and transformation).
2. The Difference Between the Bride and the Concubine
In biblical times, a bride entered into a legal covenant with her husband and had full rights, including inheritance. A concubine, though perhaps loved, had no lasting claim or covenantal standing. This serves as a metaphor for two types of people in the Church:
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The Bride represents those fully surrendered to Christ transformed, purified, and living in covenant (see 2 Corinthians 11:2).
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The concubine represents those who are content with outward religion but have no deep communion or obedience to Christ.
God does not desire a casual, distant relationship with His people. He desires a bride who knows His heart, walks in holiness, and is ready for His return.
3. The Bride is Entrusted with the Mysteries of Christ
Christ promises to share the secrets of the kingdom with those who are His. In
Revelation 10:4 (ESV), John writes:
“And when the seven thunders had sounded, I was about to write, but I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Seal up what the seven thunders have said, and do not write it down.’”
This sealed message reminds us that not all revelation is public some truths are reserved for those walking closely with God (cf. Deuteronomy 29:29: “The secret things belong to the Lord…”). The Bride is the one to whom Christ discloses the “hidden manna” (cf. Revelation 2:17).
This aligns with
John 15:15 (ESV),
where Jesus says:
“No longer do I call you servants…but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”
The Bride of Christ walks in that level of intimacy and trust.
4. The Bride Is Known by Her Righteousness (Holiness)
The mark of the true Bride is holiness not perfection in the flesh, but a life continually surrendered, sanctified, and bearing the fruit of righteousness. As Paul writes in
2 Timothy 2:19 (ESV):
“But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.’”
And in Revelation 19:7–8 (ESV), the final union is depicted:
“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.”
This righteousness isn’t self-made. It is the result of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit (cf. Romans 8:13–14).
5. Urgency in the Last Days
We are living in a time when spiritual deception is increasing, and the line between the world and the Church is becoming blurred. Jesus warned of lukewarm faith in
Revelation 3:16 (ESV):
“Because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.”
Now more than ever, we must be vigilant not merely religious, but truly transformed. The Bride must keep her lamp full (cf. Matthew 25:4), her garments clean (cf. Revelation 3:4), and her eyes fixed on the Bridegroom (cf. Hebrews 12:2).
Prepare Your Heart
If you examine your life and see a lack of holiness, intimacy, or oil in your lamp, the time to repent and seek Christ fully is now. There is still grace available, but the time is short. Christ is at the door.
Pursue Him with all your heart. Not for the rewards. Not for recognition. But because you long to be His not just a guest at the wedding, but the Bride at His side.
Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus.
