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Matthew 3:13–15 (NKJV):

“Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.

And John tried to prevent Him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?’

But Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he allowed Him.”

In this short exchange, Jesus uses two crucial phrases we must reflect on deeply:

“It is fitting for us”

“To fulfill all righteousness”

1) “It is fitting for us”

Jesus did not say,

“It is fitting for me to fulfill all righteousness,” but rather, “It is fitting for us.”

This distinction matters. Jesus includes others in the act of fulfilling righteousness not only Himself. He is laying a foundation for His followers, showing that righteousness is something we must all walk in, not just admire from afar. It is a shared call.

As believers, we are united with Christ (Romans 6:5), and therefore we must walk as He walked (1 John 2:6). If He submitted to baptism to fulfill righteousness, so must we. He is our example in all things (1 Peter 2:21).

2) To Fulfill All Righteousness

There is a difference between practicing righteousness and fulfilling all righteousness.

You fulfill righteousness when:

You believe in Jesus Christ (Romans 10:10)

You partake in the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:26)

You proclaim the gospel (Mark 16:15)

You live a holy life (1 Peter 1:15–16)

But all righteousness includes an essential act many overlook: baptism in water.

Even though Jesus was sinless (Hebrews 4:15), He still underwent water baptism not because He needed cleansing, but because it was the righteous thing to do in God’s redemptive plan. By doing so, He endorsed baptism as an act of obedience and alignment with God’s will (Luke 7:29–30). To refuse baptism is to reject the counsel of God.

So if Jesus, the sinless Son of God, chose baptism to fulfill all righteousness how much more should we?

Why Water Baptism Matters

In the New Testament, baptism is never presented as optional. It is commanded by Jesus (Matthew 28:19) and preached by the apostles as essential for salvation and identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.

Acts 2:38 (NKJV):

“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”

Romans 6:3–4 (NKJV):

“Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

Biblically, true baptism involves:

Full immersion in water, symbolizing burial and resurrection (Mark 1:9–10; John 3:23)

In the name of Jesus Christ, reflecting apostolic teaching (Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5)

Sprinkling or pouring does not reflect the biblical pattern. Jesus wasn’t sprinkled Scripture says, “He came up from the water.” John baptized in places where much water was available (John 3:23).

What If I Haven’t Been Baptized Properly?

This is a serious question. If you’ve never been baptized, or if your baptism doesn’t align with the biblical example (full immersion in the name of Jesus), and yet you have come to know the truth can you still be saved?

The sobering answer is: Not according to Scripture.

James 4:17 (NKJV):

“Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”

God may show mercy to those who never had the chance to hear or understand the full truth (Acts 17:30). But once truth is revealed, we become accountable (Hebrews 10:26).

The Enemy’s Strategy

In these last days, Satan aims to keep believers from fulfilling all righteousness. He doesn’t mind if you do some things just as long as you don’t do everything. He wants people to settle for partial obedience because partial righteousness still leaves room for disobedience.

But Jesus is coming back for a blameless bride (Ephesians 5:27) a people who have embraced His full counsel, including repentance, faith, holiness, and baptism.

So now, the most important question remains:

Have You Fulfilled All Righteousness?

Not just believed.
Not just prayed.
Not just attended church.

Have you followed the Lord into the waters of baptism, as He did so that together, with Him, you fulfill all righteousness.

Maranatha.

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What Is an Emerald?

An emerald is a precious green gemstone, valued both for its beauty and rarity. In the world of gemstones, it stands alongside ruby and sapphire as one of the most treasured stones, often used in making fine jewelry such as rings, necklaces, watches, and ornamental pieces.

But emeralds are not only significant in earthly fashion they also hold deep symbolic and spiritual meaning in Scripture.

Emeralds in the Bible

Emeralds are mentioned several times in the Bible, particularly in descriptions of holiness, majesty, and heavenly beauty. These references reflect God’s splendor and the glory of His heavenly kingdom.

One of the most powerful images comes from Revelation 4:3 (NIV):

“And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.”

This passage offers a heavenly vision of God’s throne. The rainbow around the throne “shining like an emerald” suggests peace, covenant, and divine beauty beyond earthly comprehension. The emerald-like appearance emphasizes tranquility, life, and majesty.

Note: The text says “like an emerald,” indicating that earthly language falls short in describing the splendor of heaven. Scripture uses these rich, earthly symbols to give us a glimpse into spiritual realities.

Biblical Mentions of Emeralds and Precious Stones

Emeralds appear in other important biblical contexts, often associated with sacred garments and symbolic representations:

Exodus 28:18 (NIV) – In the high priest’s breastplate:

“…the second row shall be turquoise, a lapis lazuli, and an emerald.”

Here, emeralds symbolize one of the twelve tribes of Israel and signify the priest’s role in bearing the people before God.

Exodus 39:11 – A repetition of the breastplate design as it was carried out.

Ezekiel 27:16 – In a prophecy against Tyre:

“‘Aram did business with you because of your many products; they exchanged turquoise, purple fabric, embroidered work, fine linen, coral and rubies for your merchandise.’”

Some translations substitute emerald for rubies, depending on the Hebrew term used.

Ezekiel 28:13 (NIV) – A description of the fallen guardian cherub (commonly interpreted as Lucifer or the king of Tyre):

“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald…”

Emerald here highlights the original beauty and splendor of this being before pride led to his fall.

Revelation 21:19 (NIV) – Describing the foundations of the New Jerusalem:

“The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald…”

This symbolizes the eternal, radiant beauty of God’s heavenly city a place prepared for His people.

Heaven: A Place of Unimaginable Beauty

The Bible uses precious stones like emeralds not to boast of wealth, but to give us a foretaste of the glory of heaven a place no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human mind has conceived (see 1 Corinthians 2:9). Earthly beauty, as stunning as it is, is only a shadow of the real thing.

Emeralds, pearls, and gold serve as divine metaphors tools to help us imagine the majesty of God’s presence.

Are You Ready for Heaven?

The Bible teaches that entrance into heaven is not based on wealth, works, or religious rituals but on a relationship with Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Salvation is a gift of grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

So, ask yourself honestly:
Are you sure you’ll spend eternity with God?
If not, today is the time to seek Him. Heaven is too glorious to miss and hell is too real to ignore.

Maranatha!

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Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Bible, the Word of God, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

Today, we’ll be learning about a man named Theophilus. The Bible doesn’t provide a lot of details about him, but he played a significant role in the spread of the gospel.

Before we dive into Theophilus’ story, let’s first establish some background on certain letters found in the Bible.

In the New Testament, we come across several letters written to individuals. These letters, originally intended for specific people, have proven to be helpful even to us today. For example, we have the letters Paul wrote to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. These letters were meant to build them up in their faith and ministry, but God allowed them to be preserved and read by many, even up to this day.

Timothy, Titus, and Philemon probably never imagined that the letters they received from Paul would be read by countless generations to come. They, along with Paul, were unaware of the impact these letters would have.

It’s a bit like you writing a letter today to a distant relative, and many years from now, that letter ends up being read all over the world. You’d be amazed! That’s exactly what happened with Paul and these individuals. They exchanged letters to strengthen each other in their ministry, but God had much bigger plans for those letters.

We’re using these three as examples because they’re well-known, but there was another important person in the Bible who played a significant role in the writing of the scriptures—though he isn’t as famous as Timothy. This person is THE HONORABLE THEOPHILUS.

Just like Paul wrote First and Second Timothy, there were also letters written by Luke, which we could call First and Second Letters to Theophilus.

Many of us don’t realize that the books of Luke and Acts were originally written as personal letters to one individual, not to the general public or the whole church. These books were specifically addressed to one man Theophilus. In other words, the books of Luke and Acts could be referred to as The First Letter to Theophilus and The Second Letter to Theophilus.

So, who exactly was Theophilus?

In short, Theophilus was a high-ranking official, probably a Roman, and not a Jew. He was a man of status, and he had a particular interest in the story of Jesus and His Apostles, especially Paul. However, he wasn’t sure what to believe about what he was hearing. By the time he heard these stories, Jesus had already ascended to heaven, Paul was elderly, and the Apostles were scattered across the world.

Because of his position and wisdom, Theophilus sought out Luke who had traveled extensively with Paul on his missionary journeys and asked him to investigate and write an accurate account of all he had heard about Jesus and the Apostles. Theophilus wanted to get the truth and be certain about the stories he had heard.

We don’t know exactly how much support Theophilus gave Luke to complete this task, but we know he did it wholeheartedly.

Luke, being a well-educated man (he was a physician) and a devoted follower of Christ, diligently compiled an account of Jesus’ life from His birth to His ascensionand then continued to write about the Acts of the Apostles after Jesus’ ascension. He also chronicled Paul’s missionary journeys and how the gospel was spread to the Gentiles.

After gathering and writing all this information, Luke sent it to Theophilus. And these are the books we now read as the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles.

Without a doubt, when Theophilus received these two letters, he was greatly satisfied. His doubts were resolved, and he glorified God for the clarity he now had.

Let’s take a brief look at the introductions to these letters Luke wrote to Theophilus, and then we’ll consider what we can learn from him.

Luke 1:1-4 (NIV)

“Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning,
I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.”

Acts 1:1-3 (NIV)z
“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach
until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen.
After His suffering, He presented Himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.”

SO, WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THEOPHILUS?

First, consider how many valuable lessons and teachings we find in the books of Luke and Acts. If you’ve read them, you know how foundational and rich in faith they are.

Theophilus wasn’t satisfied with just hearing surface-level stories about Jesus. He wanted to know the full details how Jesus was born, the circumstances surrounding His birth, who His family was, what He preached, for how long, how He died, how He rose again, and where He is now. Perhaps Theophilus wanted to know all this for his own benefit, but also for his children and family.

Theologically, Theophilus exemplifies the believer’s desire for a deeper, more personal relationship with the truth of the gospel. His pursuit reflects a biblical model of discipleship that seeks to understand the fullness of God’s revelation. In Luke 1:3, we see Luke’s intentional effort to deliver a “carefully investigated” and “orderly” account. This underscores the importance of accuracy and depth in understanding the events of salvation history, which is foundational to the Christian faith.

His goal was to avoid being misled by false teachings or the confusion that was spreading at the time. He sought reliable, accurate information. So, he went to Luke, who he believed was the best person to provide him with a trustworthy account.

And Luke, in turn, investigated thoroughly and wrote everything in detail.

Theologically, this demonstrates the reliability of Scripture. Luke wasn’t merely recounting oral traditions or popular stories. He carefully investigated the events he described, ensuring that his writings were reliable. This speaks to the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, which asserts that Scripture, in its original manuscripts, is fully truthful and trustworthy in all that it affirms.

That’s why Luke says:

“…I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.”

As we’ve seen, Theophilus didn’t just want to hear about Jesus. He also wanted to know about the Acts of the Apostles what they did, how they spread the gospel, and especially about Paul. He wanted to know who Paul was, how he encountered Jesus, and what he went through on his journeys. Luke wrote everything down, leaving nothing out!

Now, think about how much we’ve learned from the book of Acts about Paul’s life and ministry. There’s so much we can take from it. We see that the journey of faith involves highs and lows, suffering, and challenges. This is consistent with the theology of the Christian life, which teaches that the believer’s walk will involve perseverance through trials (Romans 5:3-4) and that suffering produces spiritual maturity (James 1:2-4).

So, because Theophilus sought to know and pursued the truth with diligence, it has become a blessing to us as well.

Likewise, we should be like Theophilus when it comes to matters of the Kingdom of Heaven. When we diligently seek to understand God’s Word, the knowledge we gain not only benefits us, but it also helps others and future generations.

Theologically, this teaches us the importance of the pursuit of truth. The Bible encourages believers to “study to show [themselves] approved” (2 Timothy 2:15). Theophilus’ quest for certainty in the gospel challenges us to approach God’s Word with diligence, desiring a deeper understanding of God’s redemptive plan, just as he did.

Maybe today, you’re doing something smal—writing something down or teaching your children. It might seem insignificant, but you don’t know what God’s plan for it might be in the future. Perhaps Theophilus thought he wanted the letters for his own benefit and for his family. But God had a much greater plan for those letters, impacting millions of people in generations to come.

Ask yourself how great is the reward awaiting Theophilus? And he wasn’t even a Jew!

One day, he will stand before the Lord and realize that his quest for truth not only blessed his own family but also impacted billions of people across generations. Right now, Theophilus is asleep in the grave, but at the resurrection, he will see the vast reward for his effort. And perhaps, had he known, he would have asked for even more knowledge to be written down for an even greater crown.

Because of his diligence, we have the books of Luke and Acts.

Matthew 8:11 (NIV)

“I say to you that many will come from the east and the west and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.”

May the Lord help us do something today that will benefit us and future generations.

Maranatha!

Notes on Theological Concepts:

1. Reliability of Scripture: Luke’s careful investigation (Luke 1:3) points to the reliability of the biblical text, which aligns with the doctrine of the inerrancy of Scripture.
2. Biblical Discipleship: Theophilus’ desire for a thorough understanding of Jesus’ life and ministry reflects the biblical model of discipleship—pursuing a deep and full knowledge of Christ.
3. Suffering and Spiritual Growth: The theological theme of enduring hardship for spiritual growth is reinforced by Paul’s missionary journeys and the challenges he faced (Romans 5:3-4).

I hope this expanded version is what you had in mind! Let me know if you need any additional details.

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The Bible speaks clearly about two ultimate destinies for humanity: SALVATION or JUDGMENT. Every person will inevitably fall into one of these two categories (John 3:16-18, Hebrews 9:27).

But before we go further, consider these important questions:

Does God choose a person before they are born? Does He already know that person’s eternal destiny  whether they will dwell with Him in heaven or be condemned to eternal separation (often described as the lake of fire)?

The answer is found in Scripture: God is omniscient (all-knowing). He knows every detail of our lives from beginning to end (Psalm 139:1-4). The Apostle Paul writes that God “chose us in him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4, ESV), indicating that God’s election of individuals is from eternity past.

God knows the ultimate destiny of every person  whether they will be saved or lost (Romans 8:29-30). This knowledge does not negate human free will but reveals God’s sovereign plan (Romans 9).

No human being, no matter how holy, can know the eternal fate of another person; that knowledge belongs solely to God (Matthew 24:36).

How can we know if we are destined for eternal life or judgment?

Let’s examine the biblical prophecies about both groups, starting with those who will be judged.

Judgment of the Dead
Revelation 20:12-13 (ESV):

“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done.”

This passage describes the Great White Throne Judgment, where every person is judged based on their deeds recorded in the books, as well as whether their name is written in the Book of Life. Those not found in the Book of Life face eternal punishment (Revelation 20:15).

God’s knowledge and sovereign plan mean He already knows every person who will stand before this judgment. This prophecy is certain to be fulfilled.

Now, consider those who will be saved:

The Great Multitude in Heaven
Revelation 7:9 (ESV):

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.”

This vision reveals the diversity of those who will be saved  from every nation and background, united before God’s throne. Their salvation is evidenced by their purity (white robes) and victory (palm branches). This multitude represents those who have received salvation through faith in Jesus Christ (Revelation 7:14).

God knows each individual in this group, though He has not revealed their names to us (Luke 10:20).

How do we know if we will be part of the saved or the judged?

The Bible makes it clear that our present life and choices reveal our destiny.Obedience and Faith: Salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, evidenced by repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and living a holy life (Ephesians 2:8-10; Acts 2:38; Galatians 5:22-25).Holding Fast to Grace: Perseverance in faith and obedience ensures we remain in God’s grace (Hebrews 3:14; Revelation 2:10).

If we reject salvation and die in that state, we will face judgment and eternal separation from God (Hebrews 10:26-27; Revelation 21:8).

The Choice Is Yours

Jeremiah 21:8 (ESV):

“And say to the people of the land: ‘Thus says the Lord: Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.’”

Deuteronomy 30:15 (ESV):

“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.”

God invites you to choose life  eternal life in fellowship with Him.

Which prophecy will you fulfill?

Will you embrace salvation and life, or will you reject it and face judgment?

May the Lord bless us all.

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Understanding the Power of Intimacy in Revelation
Scripture Reference: Matthew 24 (NKJV)

Throughout Jesus’ earthly ministry, His disciples often heard Him teach profound truths sometimes through parables, sometimes in direct instruction. On several occasions, they asked for clarification immediately. But there were critical moments when they chose to wait and approach Jesus in private.

This deliberate move toward intimate conversation wasn’t out of fear, but out of reverence and a desire for deeper understanding especially on matters related to the end of the age.

Why Ask in Private?

The disciples recognized that some spiritual truths require not just hearing but contemplation, stillness, and undivided attention. They understood that some answers could only be received in moments of quiet communion with the Lord, away from the distractions of the crowd (Mark 4:34, Luke 9:18).

Likewise, for believers today, seeking the Lord in solitude is key to understanding divine mysteries. God still speaks but often in the “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12), not in the chaos of daily noise.

Matthew 24:1–3 – The Setting

“Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple.
And Jesus said to them, ‘Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.’
Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying,
‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’”
(Matthew 24:1–3, NKJV)

In this passage, the disciples asked three critical eschatological (end-times) questions:

1. When will these things happen?

2. What will be the sign of Your coming?

3. What will be the sign of the end of the age?

Each of these questions relates to the prophetic unfolding of God’s redemptive plan His second coming, judgment, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Let’s explore each one, theologically and scripturally.

1. “When Will These Things Happen?”

(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 36–44)

This question was about timing the human desire to pinpoint when Jesus would return and God’s plan would be completed. Jesus responded:

“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.”
(Matthew 24:36, NKJV)

Key Theological Truth:
Even Jesus, in His incarnate state, voluntarily limited His divine knowledge (Philippians 2:6–8) to demonstrate complete submission to the Father. This emphasizes that no human or angelic being has been given the calendar date of Christ’s return.

Instead of focusing on when, Jesus called them to watchfulness and readiness:

“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
(Matthew 24:44, NKJV)

Practical Application:
The Church is called to live in a state of readiness, not complacency knowing that the day of the Lord will come “as a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).

2. “What Will Be the Sign of Your Coming?”

(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 4–28)

Jesus gave a detailed list of events that would characterize the season of His return, though not the exact time.

“Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name… and you will hear of wars and rumors of wars… and there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.”
(Matthew 24:4–7, NKJV)

Key Theological Insight:
These signs align with birth pains (Romans 8:22) an escalation of chaos as creation groans under the weight of sin. Yet, they are not to produce fear but awareness.

Notably, false prophets, increasing lawlessness, persecution of the saints, and the global preaching of the Gospel are all listed as indicators (Matthew 24:11–14).

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”
(Matthew 24:14, NKJV)

Fulfillment in Our Time:
Most of these signs are visible today: global evangelism, geopolitical unrest, moral decline, pandemics (e.g., COVID-19), and rising deception in the church all pointing to the nearness of Christ.

3. “What Will Be the Sign of the End of the Age?”

(Matthew 24:3; answered in verses 29–31)

This refers to the final consummation of history the moment when time, as we know it, ends, and God’s eternal kingdom is established.

“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light… Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven… and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
(Matthew 24:29–30, NKJV)

Key Eschatological Truths:

• Jesus will return visibly, bodily, and gloriously (Acts 1:11, Revelation 1:7).

• Cosmic disturbances will accompany His coming fulfilling prophecies from Joel 2:31, Isaiah 13:10.

• The final judgment will follow (Matthew 25:31–46), separating the righteous from the wicked.

Judgment Day will be fearful for the unprepared (Revelation 6:15–17), but glorious for those in Christ (Titus 2:13).

So What Does This Mean for You Today?

We live in a generation that has seen nearly all prophetic signs fulfilled. That means the return of Christ is imminent it could happen at any moment.

The question is not “When?” but rather “Are you ready?”

Jesus warned that His coming would be sudden and unexpected. Two will be in the field one taken, one left (Matthew 24:40–41). There will be no warning, no last-minute signs, no dramatic pause.

“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”
(Matthew 24:42, NKJV)

How Should You Respond?

1. Repent and believe the Gospel (Mark 1:15)

2. Receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (John 1:12)

3. Be baptized in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)

4. Walk in holiness and readiness, keeping your lamp burning (Matthew 25:1–13)

Need Prayer or Baptism?
If you’re ready to surrender your life to Christ, or if you need help being baptized, please call or message us at 0693036618. We would be honored to pray with you and help you take the next step in your faith.

The Lord bless you.

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Answer:
The common idea that heaven is a place where we will be singing non-stop forever is a misunderstanding of what the Bible actually teaches. While worship including singing will certainly be part of our heavenly experience, Scripture paints a much richer and fuller picture of eternal life with God.

Jesus Himself spoke clearly about heaven not just as a place of praise, but as a home a place being prepared for those who love Him.

John 14:1–3 (NIV)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Jesus refers to His Father’s house as having many rooms, emphasizing that heaven is a vast, welcoming, and purposeful place not a stagnant or monotonous one. The Greek word translated “rooms” (μονή, monē) implies a dwelling place or abode. This suggests activity, relationship, and meaningful existence not just singing.

What Will We Do in Heaven?
According to Scripture, those in heaven will:

1. Serve God (Revelation 22:3)

“The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him.”

Worship in heaven includes service. This could mean a variety of joyful tasks and roles work without toil or frustration.

1. Reign with Christ (2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 22:5)

“And they will reign for ever and ever.” (Rev. 22:5)

Reigning implies responsibility, authority, and purpose. Heaven is not an idle eternity but one filled with meaning and divine purpose.

1. Fellowship and learn (1 Corinthians 13:12)

“Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”

Heaven will be a place of ever-deepening knowledge of God, unending fellowship with the saints, and perfect understanding.

• Experience unimaginable joy

(Psalm 16:11)
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

Yes, singing and worship will certainly be part of heaven, as seen in Revelation 5:11-13, where multitudes of angels and believers praise the Lamb. But this is not the only thing we’ll do.

Heaven: Beyond Human Imagination
Paul explains how heaven surpasses anything we can currently comprehend:

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)

“However, as it is written:
‘What no eye has seen,
what no ear has heard,
and what no human mind has conceived’
the things God has prepared for those who love him.”

The joys of heaven will far exceed anything experienced on earth. If even in this broken world we find joy in relationships, creativity, and worship how much more abundant will life be in God’s perfected kingdom?

How Do We Get to Heaven?
There is only one way to enter this eternal home: through faith in Jesus Christ.

John 14:6 (NIV)

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

The path begins when we believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior, repent of our sins, are baptized according to the Scriptures (Acts 2:38), and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This marks the beginning of our journey toward the eternal kingdom.

Acts 2:38 (NIV)

“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.'”

Maranatha.

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Question:
We know from Scripture that the prophet Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. However, years later, we read that he sent a letter to King Jehoram concerning his illness (2 Chronicles 21:12). How is that possible?

Answer:
Let’s take a closer look.

2 Chronicles 21:11-15 tells us that King Jehoram led the people of Judah into idolatry and immorality, much like the kings of Israel. Then verse 12 says:

“Jehoram received a letter from Elijah the prophet, which said: ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: Because you have not followed the ways of your father Jehoshaphat or of Asa king of Judah, but have instead followed the ways of the kings of Israel… the Lord is going to strike your people, your sons, your wives, and all your possessions with a severe blow. You yourself will suffer a lingering disease of the bowels, until the disease causes your bowels to come out.’”

This prophecy clearly took place after Elijah had already been taken up to heaven. So how could Elijah have sent a letter from heaven?

The answer is he didn’t. Elijah did not send this letter from heaven. Instead, he wrote it before he was taken up. God revealed to him prophetically that a king named Jehoram would rise and commit terrible sins. Elijah was instructed to write down God’s judgment in advance. That letter was likely entrusted to Elisha or another servant to be delivered when the time came.

And indeed, the letter was preserved until Jehoram became king and committed the wickedness that Elijah had foreseen. The prophecy was fulfilled exactly as written: Jehoram contracted a painful intestinal disease, and eventually his bowels came out. He died in misery, and unlike his predecessors, he was not honored at his death.

2 Chronicles 21:18-19 says:

“After all this, the Lord afflicted Jehoram with an incurable disease of the bowels. In the course of time, at the end of two years, his bowels came out because of the disease, and he died in great pain. His people made no fire in his honor, as they had for his ancestors.”

So, Elijah did not return or send a message from heaven he simply wrote it beforehand, under divine instruction.

We see a similar case with a prophecy about King Josiah. Over a century before Josiah was born, a man of God prophesied in 1 Kings 13:1-2:

“By the word of the Lord, a man of God came from Judah to Bethel. Jeroboam was standing by the altar to make an offering. The man cried out against the altar: ‘Altar, altar! This is what the Lord says: A son named Josiah will be born to the house of David. He will sacrifice the priests of the high places here and burn human bones on you.’”

That prophecy was written and preserved for over 100 years until Josiah was born and fulfilled it precisely, as recorded in 2 Kings 23:16–20.

The same pattern is seen again in the prophecies of Isaiah, who foretold the coming of King Cyrus of Persia long before his birth. Isaiah even wrote that Cyrus would help rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. These words were fulfilled generations later. You can read the prophecy in Isaiah 44:28 and Isaiah 45:1, and its fulfillment in Ezra 1:2.

What Can We Learn from This?
God knows the future. His Word never fails. If He could declare the rise of Jehoram and Cyrus long before they were born and everything happened exactly as He said then we must also take His warnings seriously.

The Bible says in Galatians 5:19–21:

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

These are not idle threats. God’s Word is true and unchanging He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

If you haven’t yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, now is the time. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take a few moments to sincerely repent of your sins. Seek baptism by full immersion in water in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who will guide you into all truth.

Maranatha.

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If the Lord Jesus were to return today, every person would fall into one of three categories three spiritual “groups” that reflect how people relate to God’s redemptive plan. These groups mirror the lives of Enoch, Noah, and Lot. Understanding which group you belong to is crucial because your response to God today determines your future when Christ returns.

Many believe that simply confessing Jesus guarantees them a place in the Rapture. But the Bible teaches that not all who claim the name of Christ will be taken when He comes for His Bride (Matthew 7:21-23). These are sobering truths meant to awaken us to genuine faith and holiness in these last days.

1. The Group of Enoch  The Raptured Church (The Bride of Christ)

Theological Context:
Enoch represents a group of believers who walk so closely with God that they are taken directly to heaven without experiencing death. In typology, Enoch prefigures the Church that will be raptured (caught up) before the Great Tribulation (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

Hebrews 11:5 (NIV)

“By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death… For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.”

Genesis tells us Enoch “walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away” (Genesis 5:24, NIV). He lived in a corrupt world yet maintained a life of holiness and communion with God for 300 years.

In this present age, this group corresponds to the faithful, watchful Church those who walk in obedience and intimacy with Jesus Christ. These are the wise virgins in the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1–13). They keep their lamps (lives) filled with oil (the Holy Spirit) and are ready when the Bridegroom returns.

Revelation 3:10 (NIV)

“Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.”

These are the believers who will participate in the First Resurrection and rule with Christ in His Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:6). Their eternal home is the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2), and they are described as kings and priests of God (Revelation 1:6).

2. The Group of Noah  The Remnant of Israel Preserved Through Tribulation

Theological Context:
While Enoch was taken before judgment, Noah was preserved through judgment. He is a type of the faithful Jewish remnant that will be protected during the Great Tribulation. These are not raptured but are sealed and preserved by God through supernatural means.

God has not forgotten His covenant with Israel. Paul says:

Romans 11:25-26 (NIV)

“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery… 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…”

The Book of Revelation describes 144,000 Jewish believers 12,000 from each tribe sealed by God and protected from harm (Revelation 7:3-8). They are later seen standing with the Lamb on Mount Zion (Revelation 14:1).

They will be taken to a place of safety, much like Noah’s ark, during the time of God’s wrath.

Revelation 12:14 (NIV)

“The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of… out of the serpent’s reach.”

This group will survive the Tribulation and enter the Millennial Kingdom in their natural bodies (Zechariah 14:16-19), fulfilling God’s promises to Abraham’s physical descendants.

3. The Group of Lot  Lukewarm Believers Who Miss the Rapture

Theological Context:
Lot was not taken before destruction like Enoch, nor preserved in a shelter like Noah. He was rescued only after heeding an urgent warning and barely escaped with his life. He represents lukewarm or compromised Christians those who believe, but are entangled with the world and spiritually unprepared for Christ’s return.

Genesis 19:17 (NIV)

“As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, ‘Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!’”

Lot’s wife, looking back at what she was leaving behind, was turned into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). This speaks of those who hesitate to fully separate from the world.

Jesus warned of this:

Luke 17:32-33 (NIV)

“Remember Lot’s wife! Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it.”

These believers are the foolish virgins of Matthew 25 who lacked oil when the Bridegroom came. They knocked on the door after it was shut, but were not allowed in (v. 10–12).

During the Tribulation, they will face horrific suffering, and many will have to die as martyrs to prove their faith.

Revelation 16:8-9 (NIV)

“The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire… They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God… but they refused to repent and glorify Him.”

Even those who endure and refuse the mark of the beast (Revelation 13:16–17) will enter the Kingdom with little to no reward, having lost everything like Lot.

So, Which Group Are You In?

If your heart is fixed on the things of this world…
If holiness, prayer, and obedience are not priorities in your life…
If talk of the end times doesn’t interest you, but you get excited about financial or personal prophecies…
Then you are not walking in the path of Enoch.

Learn from Enoch. He walked faithfully with God, and God revealed to him the future judgment:

Jude 1:14-15 (NIV)

“Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied… ‘See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge it”

Maran atha.

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