Signs of the Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ
The coming of the Lord Jesus to the world unfolds in three major phases, each with distinct signs and purposes according to Scripture.
1.His Birth through the Virgin Mary
The first coming of Christ was a unique historical event where God became flesh through the virgin Mary (John 1:14). This event fulfilled Old Testament messianic prophecies, including the virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14).
Luke 1:30-32 (ESV) states:
“And the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David.’”
- Incarnation: God taking on human flesh to redeem humanity.
- Messiah’s Davidic lineage: Jesus inherits the throne of David, affirming His role as the promised King (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
- Grace: Mary was chosen by grace, signifying God’s sovereign plan.
2.The Rapture of the Church
The second coming involves the rapture a sudden, secret catching up of believers to meet Christ in the air before the Great Tribulation (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). The event is sudden and selective, as Jesus described in Luke 17:34-36 (NIV):
“I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.”
- Imminence: This event can happen at any time, encouraging believers to be spiritually ready (Matthew 24:42-44).
- Separation: The rapture divides the faithful from those who are not ready or who reject Christ.
- Hope: The rapture is a blessed hope for the church (Titus 2:13).
Signs preceding the rapture (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21):
- False Christs and false prophets deceiving many.
- Wars, rumors of wars.
- Increase of lawlessness and coldness of love.
- Natural disasters.
- Persecution of believers.
These signs are described as “birth pains” (Matthew 24:8, ESV), indicating the approach but not the immediate arrival of Christ.
3.The Visible Return for the Millennial Reign
The third coming of Christ is visible to all, with every eye seeing Him (Revelation 1:7), and will inaugurate His 1,000 year kingdom on earth (Revelation 20). This happens after the Tribulation period and the rise of the Antichrist.
Revelation 1:7 (NIV) says:
“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him,” and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen.”
- Judgment: The rebellious are judged and mourn.
- Kingdom establishment: Christ reigns physically on earth for a thousand years.
- Fulfillment of prophecy: God’s promises to Israel and the nations are fulfilled.
Signs that Precede Each Coming
Before the First Coming: The Coming of Elijah/John the Baptist
The Old Testament prophet Malachi 4:5 prophesied Elijah’s return before the Messiah. This was fulfilled by John the Baptist, who came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17).
Luke 1:13-17 (NIV):
“Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard… Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be great in the sight of the Lord… He will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children.”
John’s ministry prepared the way for Jesus’ first coming (Isaiah 40:3, Matthew 3:1-3).
Before the Second Coming: Signs Leading to the Rapture
Jesus gave several signs signaling the approach of His return and the rapture of the church, as recorded in Matthew 24 (ESV) and Luke 21:
- Deception by false Messiahs.
- Wars and conflicts.
- Famines and earthquakes.
- Persecution of believers.
- Increase in wickedness and moral decay.
These signs are called “the beginning of birth pains” (Matthew 24:8), meaning the rapture is imminent but not immediate.
Before the Third Coming: Cosmic Signs and the Great Tribulation
The final coming will be preceded by dramatic cosmic disturbances signaling the end of the age:
- The sun darkened.
- The moon turning blood red.
- Stars falling from heaven.
Matthew 24:29-31 (ESV):
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light… Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven… And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call to gather his elect.”
Luke 21:25-27 (NIV) also describes these signs, emphasizing the fear and awe of the nations at His visible return.
These signs follow the Great Tribulation period, during which the church is absent (having been raptured).
- Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?
- Are you confident that if He returned today, you would go with Him in the rapture?
- If unsure, seek Him earnestly, for the time is near.
Maranatha! “Our Lord, come!” (1 Corinthians 16:22).
What Does the Word “fear” Mean? (Deuteronomy 1:17)
Answer:
The world “to fear,” which means “to reverence,” or “to respect.” In biblical theology, fear (yirah in Hebrew) is a profound reverence and awe toward God, encompassing respect, worship, and obedience.
- When a person fears another person, it means they hold them in respect and obey their authority.
- When a person fears God, it means they honor Him, obey His commands, and live in submission to His will.
- Conversely, to “fear” means not to fear or respect to disregard or reject that reverence.
This fear of God is foundational to biblical faith, as Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (ESV).
1. The Prohibition of Fearing People
Deuteronomy 1:17 (ESV):
“You shall not show partiality in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s.”
Here, God commands His people not to fear or show partiality toward any human being, reminding them that ultimate justice belongs to God alone. This frees believers from intimidation and calls them to rely on God’s sovereignty.
Similarly, Joshua 10:25 records Joshua encouraging his people, “Do not be afraid of them,” underscoring God’s protection over His people.
2. The Prohibition of Fearing Other Gods
2 Kings 17:35, 37 (ESV):
“The LORD made a covenant with them and charged them, ‘You shall not fear other gods or bow down to them or serve them or sacrifice to them.'”
“Take care to keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and walk in his ways. You shall not fear other gods.”
The Old Testament repeatedly warns Israel against the worship and fear of false gods (idolatry). Such fear leads to spiritual unfaithfulness and judgment (see also Exodus 20:3-5).
3. The Call to Fear the One True God
Joshua 24:14 (ESV):
“Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness.”
God calls His people to fear Him alone, which means wholehearted worship and obedience, renouncing all false gods. This fear is the basis of covenant faithfulness and life.
Other supportive passages include:
Deuteronomy 13:4: “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear him and keep his commandments.”
1 Samuel 12:24: “Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully.”
Psalm 34:9: “Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!”
1 Peter 2:17: “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.”
Revelation 14:7: “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come.”
- The fear of God is not mere terror but a reverential awe that leads to worship, obedience, and trust.
- Humans are commanded not to fear other humans in a way that compromises their obedience to God.
- Worship of and fear toward false gods or idols is strictly forbidden.
- True wisdom, peace, and life come from fearing the one true God, the Creator of heaven and earth.
Revelation 14:7 (ESV):
“Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”
Have you been born again? Are you confident that if Jesus returns today, you would be ready to meet Him? If not, this is your call to repentance and faith. Receive Jesus now, and He will cleanse you, forgive you, and give you the assurance of eternal life.
Maranatha The Lord is coming!
THE PLAGUE OF THE DEATH OF THE FIRSTBORN
Blessed be the glorious name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Have you ever pondered why Pharaoh’s heart remained hard through the first nine plagues, yet it was only after the final plague the death of the firstborn that he finally let the Israelites go? This narrative reveals profound truths about God’s judgment, spiritual authority, and the significance of the firstborn in biblical theology.
Pharaoh’s Hardened Heart: Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
The Bible consistently describes Pharaoh’s heart as hardened but does not say God softened it until the very end. In fact, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened until he faces total destruction at the Red Sea (Exodus 14). This tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility is a key theological theme:
- God’s sovereignty: God allows Pharaoh’s heart to remain hard to demonstrate His power over Egypt and its gods (Exodus 9:12 NIV).
- Human responsibility: Pharaoh hardens his own heart through repeated rebellion (Exodus 8:15, 32).
This interplay shows that God’s judgments are just, even when they involve allowing stubborn hearts to persist for His purposes (Romans 9:17-18).
The Unique Power of the Death of the Firstborn
Exodus 11:1 (NIV):
“Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘One more plague I will bring on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here; when he does, he will drive you out completely.’”
The final plague is unique in its effect. No prior plague compelled Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Theologically, this plague is significant because it strikes directly at the heart of Egyptian religious belief:
- The firstborn sons of Egypt, including Pharaoh’s heir, were regarded as living embodiments of the gods and heirs to their power.
- The death of the firstborn is therefore a judgment not only on the Egyptians but also on their gods (Exodus 12:12 NIV).
Judgment Against the Egyptian Gods
Exodus 12:12 (NIV):
“On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both human and animal. I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD.”
This verse affirms God’s supremacy over all false gods. The death of the firstborn is a direct attack on the spiritual powers Egypt revered. The firstborn were priests and representatives of these gods, so their death symbolized the defeat of the entire pantheon.
This also aligns with the Old Testament theme of Yahweh as the one true God who judges false gods (Isaiah 46:9-11).
The Role of the Firstborn in Ancient Cultures
In ancient Egypt and many other ancient cultures the firstborn sons were considered holy and often dedicated to priestly service. This explains the biblical emphasis on redeeming or consecrating the firstborn to God.
- The firstborn carried priestly responsibilities as mediators between the people and their gods (see Numbers 3:12-13).
- Animals firstborn to a household were also sacrificed as offerings to the gods.
Thus, the plagues were both natural judgments and deeply spiritual acts confronting false religious systems.
Redemption of the Firstborn in Israel
God established a law requiring Israelites to redeem their firstborn sons through sacrifice, symbolizing that the firstborn belonged to Him and were set apart for priestly purposes.
Numbers 3:12-13 (NIV):
“I have taken the Levites from among the Israelites in place of the first male offspring of every Israelite woman. The Levites are mine, for all the firstborn are mine. When I struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, I set apart for myself every firstborn in Israel, both human and animal. They are mine. I am the LORD.”
Later, the tribe of Levi was given the priestly role, replacing the firstborn sons of Israel in this duty (see Numbers 8:14-18).
The New Covenant and the Priesthood of All Believers
Under the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ, the old law concerning physical redemption of the firstborn no longer applies:
- All believers are priests: Through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are sanctified and given direct access to God (1 Peter 2:9 NIV).
- Jesus as the ultimate firstborn: Jesus is called the “firstborn from the dead” (Colossians 1:18 NIV), symbolizing the fulfillment and transformation of the role of firstborn.
Revelation 1:6 (NIV):
“And has made us to be a kingdom, priests to his God and Father to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
Hebrews 12:23 (NIV):
“To the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven.”
This means the Church collectively is the “firstborn,” the spiritual priesthood, rendering the old practice of redeeming physical firstborn obsolete.
Practical and Spiritual Application
The story of the death of the firstborn challenges believers to consider:
- What or who holds first place in your life? (Matthew 6:33)
- Are there “gods” or idols you are unknowingly serving? (1 John 5:21)
- Have you accepted Jesus Christ as the ultimate firstborn, your Lord and Savior?
The plagues and the death of the firstborn demonstrate God’s absolute authority over all powers human, spiritual, and cosmic. Pharaoh’s resistance was not just political but spiritual. The release of the Israelites signifies God’s victory over false gods and the setting apart of His people.
May Jesus Christ always be first in your life the true Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).
God bless you.
Biblical Foundations of Christian Marriage
1. Marriage as a Divine Institution
Genesis 2:24: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
- This foundational verse establishes marriage as a divine institution, instituted by God from the beginning. It underscores the covenantal nature of marriage, where two individuals become one in purpose and unity. (G3Min)
Matthew 19:4-6: “And He answered and said to them, ‘Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.’”
- Jesus reaffirms the Genesis account, emphasizing the permanence and sanctity of the marital bond.
2. Spiritual Compatibility in Marriage
2 Corinthians 6:14-15: “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever?”
- Paul advises believers to marry fellow believers to maintain spiritual harmony and unity, avoiding potential conflicts in faith and values.
1 Corinthians 7:39: “A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.”
- This verse highlights the importance of marrying within the faith, ensuring that the new union is in alignment with Christian beliefs.
3. The Covenant Nature of Marriage
Malachi 2:14: “Yet you say, ‘For what reason?’ Because the Lord has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion and your wife by covenant.”
- Marriage is depicted as a covenant before God, emphasizing faithfulness and commitment. (G3Min)
Ephesians 5:25-27: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”
- The husband’s role mirrors Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church, highlighting the sanctifying and purifying aspect of the marital relationship.
4. Mutual Roles and Responsibilities
Ephesians 5:21: “Submitting to one another in the fear of God.”
- Mutual submission is foundational in Christian marriage, where both spouses honor and respect each other.(WISDOM FROM HEAVEN)
Ephesians 5:22-24: “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.”
- Wives are called to respect and support their husbands, acknowledging their leadership role.
Ephesians 5:25: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”
- Husbands are commanded to love their wives sacrificially, reflecting Christ’s love for the Church.
5. Purity and Fidelity in Marriage
Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”
- The sanctity of the marriage bed is emphasized, condemning sexual immorality and adultery. (ESV Bible)
1 Corinthians 6:9-10: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.”
- Paul lists behaviors that are incompatible with the Christian faith, underscoring the importance of moral purity.
6. The Role of the Church in Marriage
1 Corinthians 6:1-3: “Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters?”
- Believers are encouraged to resolve disputes within the church, reflecting the community’s role in upholding Christian values.
Matthew 18:15-17: “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone; if he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church.”
- This passage outlines the process of reconciliation within the church, emphasizing accountability and restoration.
Christian marriage is a sacred covenant established by God, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church. It is characterized by mutual love, respect, and commitment, underpinned by biblical principles. While the church setting provides a formal and supportive environment for the union, the essence of Christian marriage lies in the adherence to these divine principles, regardless of the ceremony’s location.
Was Satan Bound When Jesus Was Born?
Question: According to Matthew 12:29, was Satan bound at the time of Jesus’ birth?
Answer: Let’s examine this carefully.
Matthew 12:29 (ESV)
“Or how can someone enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house.”
This verse comes from Jesus’ teaching during a confrontation with the Pharisees, who accused Him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (Satan’s power). Jesus uses a vivid analogy: before someone can “plunder” or take over a strong man’s house, they must first “bind” the strong man.
Was Satan Bound at Jesus’ Birth?
The short answer is No. Satan was not bound at the time of Jesus’ birth, and in fact, Scripture shows that Satan is still active today. If Satan had been bound at Jesus’ birth, Herod would not have felt threatened or sought to kill the infant Jesus:
Matthew 2:13 (NIV)
“When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,’ he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.’”
This shows Satan’s influence remained intact; Herod’s murderous intent was likely inspired by demonic forces opposed to God’s redemptive plan.
Satan’s Activity During Jesus’ Ministry
Later, Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, an event that could not happen if Satan were bound:
Matthew 4:1-3 (NIV)
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’”
This highlights that Satan was free to tempt and oppose Jesus personally.
The Present Spiritual Reality
Satan’s freedom explains why sin and evil persist today, and why Scripture warns believers not to give the devil a foothold:
Ephesians 4:27-28 (NIV)
“Do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.”
The “foothold” (Greek: topos) metaphorically means a position of influence or opportunity.
The Future Binding of Satan
The Bible prophesies that Satan will be bound during Christ’s millennial reign a literal thousand year period of peace on earth after the tribulation:
Revelation 20:1-3 (KJV)
“And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.”
This binding prevents Satan from deceiving the nations during the millennial kingdom, fulfilling God’s justice and peace on earth.
What Does Matthew 12:29 Mean Then?
When Jesus spoke of “binding the strong man,” He was referring to His authority over the spiritual kingdom of darkness during His ministry. He wasn’t saying Satan was entirely powerless or absent but that Jesus had come to overpower Satan’s works and deliver people from his bondage.
The context of Matthew 12 shows Jesus casting out demons, which the Pharisees wrongly attributed to demonic power. Jesus corrects them, showing that only God’s power could overcome Satan’s kingdom:
- Satan cannot cast out Satan (which would be self destructive).
- Jesus, with greater authority, “binds” the strong man (Satan) to “plunder” his house (rescue those held captive).
This spiritual binding involves restraining Satan’s influence over individuals and communities, setting captives free, and establishing God’s kingdom.
Believers’ Authority Over Satan
Jesus gave believers authority to “bind and loose” spiritual forces:
Matthew 18:18 (ESV)
“Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
This authority is exercised through faith, prayer, and obedience, resisting the devil’s schemes (James 4:7), and walking in the Spirit.
Present Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Though Satan is not bound in the ultimate sense until the millennium, Jesus’ victory on the cross has already disarmed Satan’s power over believers:
Colossians 2:15 (NIV)
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
The spiritual warfare continues, but the victory is assured for those who are in Christ.
The Urgency of Salvation Today
The Bible warns that Satan’s time is short:
Revelation 12:12 (NIV)
“Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.”
1 John 2:15-17 (ESV) calls believers not to love the world, which is passing away, but to live for God’s eternal purposes.
- Satan was not bound at Jesus’ birth and is still active today.
- Jesus’ ministry involved binding Satan’s power to free people from his control.
- Satan will be literally bound for a thousand years during Christ’s millennial reign after the tribulation.
- Believers share in Jesus’ authority to “bind and loose” demonic powers in their lives.
- The final judgment and eternal defeat of Satan are yet to come.
Does God Kill?
Question: Does God kill like humans do?
Answer: Yes Scripture teaches that God has both the authority and power to take life. However, God’s actions are rooted in His perfect justice, holiness, and mercy, unlike human killing which often stems from sin, hatred, or self interest.
1. God’s Authority Over Life and Death
In Matthew 10:28 (NIV), Jesus says:
“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Here, “the One” refers to God, not Satan. Humans may kill the body, but only God can judge the soul eternally. This highlights God’s ultimate sovereignty over both physical and spiritual life.
In theology, this reflects the doctrine of divine sovereignty that God alone is Lord over life and death (Deuteronomy 32:39; Job 1:21).
2. Biblical Examples of God’s Judgment Leading to Death
Throughout Scripture, we see God executing judgment in response to unrepentant sin not arbitrarily, but as a righteous judge.
The Flood (Genesis 6–9)
God judged the entire world during Noah’s time:
“The LORD regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled.”
Genesis 6:6 (NIV)
Only eight people were saved in the ark, as confirmed in:
“…God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water.”
1 Peter 3:20 (NIV)
This judgment came after generations of escalating wickedness and rejection of God’s ways (Genesis 6:5). It illustrates that God’s patience has limits, and His judgment, when it comes, is thorough and just.
3. God’s Judgment on Oppressors and Injustice
In Exodus 22:22–24 (NIV), God warns Israel about mistreating the vulnerable:
“Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless. If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry.
My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless.”
This demonstrates God’s deep concern for justice, especially toward the weak and oppressed. When society ignores God’s standards, divine judgment follows.
This is not unique to Israel God judged pagan nations as well:
“I will destroy her ruler and kill all her officials with him,”
Amos 2:3 (NIV) (spoken against Moab)
And in the New Testament:
“Then I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.”
Revelation 2:23 (NIV)
This was addressed to the church in Thyatira, warning of judgment on unrepentant sin within the church.
4. God’s Judgment Is Always Balanced by Mercy
While God does judge and even kill, Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that He is not quick to anger:
“The LORD is slow to anger but great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished.”
Nahum 1:3 (NIV)
The delay of judgment is an expression of God’s mercy, giving people time to repent:
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
But this time of mercy will not last forever:
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar… and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”
2 Peter 3:10 (NIV)
5. The Call to Respond: Life in the Spirit, Not the Flesh
God’s judgment is not just a warning it’s a call to repentance and new life through Christ. Paul writes:
“For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”
Romans 8:13 (NIV)
To live by the Spirit means to turn away from sin and surrender to Christ, trusting in His death and resurrection.
God is Just, Merciful, and Sovereign
Yes, God kills but not like humans do. He judges out of righteousness, not malice. His actions are holy and just. Yet, He is patient, offering every opportunity for repentance.
So, the ultimate question is this: Have you received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, or are you still relying on worldly things that will ultimately bring God’s judgment?
May the Lord give us wisdom, humility, and grace to turn fully to Him before the day of judgment comes.
“Choose life, so that you and your children may live.”
Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)
Is It YESU, JESUS, or YESHUA? Understanding the Power in His Name
Question:
Which name should believers use in prayer and ministry? Should we say YESU (Swahili), JESUS (English), or YESHUA (Hebrew)?
Answer:
One of the tactics the enemy uses to confuse and divide the body of Christ is the debate over the “correct” name for the Messiah. However, Scripture and sound theology show that the power of the name of Jesus is not in pronunciation but in the person it represents and the faith placed in Him.
There are two main views:
- The Hebrew only View
Some believe that the Messiah’s name must only be pronounced as Yeshua (יֵשׁוּעַ), the original Hebrew name, as the Angel Gabriel might have said to Mary (Luke 1:31). This name means “Yahweh is salvation.” - The Translated Name View
Others believe the Messiah’s name can be faithfully translated into different languages. This is supported by the historical spread of the Gospel across cultures and the use of names such as:- Jesus in English
- Yesu in Swahili
- Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς) in Greek
- Iesus in Latin
These names, though different in form, refer to the same person: the Son of God, the Savior of the world.
Is Translating His Name Biblical?
Yes! God has always used human language to reveal Himself to people. The New Testament was originally written in Greek, not Hebrew, and the name of Jesus appears in Greek as Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) throughout the Gospels and Epistles.
Example:
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
Matthew 1:21 (NIV)
The Greek manuscripts say Iēsous, not Yeshua. Yet we understand it refers to the same person.
What Happened at Pentecost? (Acts 2)
When the Holy Spirit was poured out at Pentecost, the disciples spoke in various known human languages, not in one sacred language:
“Utterly amazed, they asked: ‘Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?’”
Acts 2:7–8 (NIV)
They heard the works of God proclaimed in their own tongues (Acts 2:11). This means that the Gospel, including the name of Jesus, was understood and spoken in different languages from the very beginning of the Church.
Names of God Are Translated Too
Even the names and titles of God are translated throughout Scripture:
- In Hebrew: Elohim, YHWH
- In Greek: Theos (God), Kurios (Lord)
- In English: God, Lord
- In Swahili: Mungu, Bwana
If God’s names and titles are translated for understanding, then the name of Jesus can rightly be translated too without losing its power or divinity.
Faith in the Name, Not Just the Sound
What matters most is faith in the person behind the name, not the specific pronunciation.
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:12 (NIV)
The power of His name is demonstrated not by how it’s said, but by who He is and what He has accomplished through the cross and resurrection.
Demons Recognize Him in Every Language
In deliverance ministry, it is well known that demons respond to the authority of the name YESU in Swahili, JESUS in English, or Yeshua in Hebrew because they recognize the authority of the person being invoked.
“The seventy two returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’”
Luke 10:17 (NIV)
God Embraces All Languages
God desires that all nations, tribes, and tongues worship Him:
“All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name.”
Psalm 86:9 (NIV)
“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
Revelation 7:9 (NIV)
This shows that linguistic diversity is God ordained, and the name of Jesus is meant to be proclaimed in every language.
Whether you say YESU, JESUS, or YESHUA, what truly matters is:
- That you are referring to the true Son of God, crucified and risen,
- That you believe in Him by faith, and
- That you walk in obedience to His Word.
The issue is not the translation, but the truth and faith behind the name.
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Romans 10:13 (NIV)
May the Lord bless you as you call upon His name in truth.
Is Believing in the Lord Jesus Alone Enough for Salvation?
Question:
The Bible says in John 3:18, 36 that
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
Does this mean that simply believing in Jesus is enough, or is more required for salvation?
Answer:
The Bible teaches that faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of salvation, but it also presents a more comprehensive picture that includes repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit. To understand this more clearly, we need to compare scripture with scripture, as no single verse gives the full picture in isolation.
1. Faith in Jesus Is Essential
John 3:18 (ESV)
“Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”
John 3:36 (ESV)
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
These verses affirm that belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God is the key to eternal life. Faith is the doorway to salvation, and without it, no one can be saved (Hebrews 11:6). However, “believing” in the biblical sense is more than intellectual agreement it involves trust, surrender, and obedience.
2. Baptism Is Not Optional
Mark 16:16 (ESV)
“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Jesus directly connects faith and baptism. This shows that baptism is not just a symbolic gesture, but a response of obedience that accompanies true belief. While the latter part of the verse focuses on disbelief as the basis for condemnation, the first part clearly teaches that both faith and baptism are the path to salvation.
The Apostle Peter reinforces this:
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.'”
Here, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit are all part of the salvation experience.
3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit Is Also Necessary
Luke 3:16 (ESV)
“John answered them all, saying, ‘I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.'”
Jesus promised that believers would be baptized with the Holy Spirit, which is essential for living the Christian life and walking in victory over sin. This spiritual baptism is part of being “born again.”
John 3:5–6 (ESV)
“Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.'”
Here, Jesus is clear: being born again involves both water (baptism) and Spirit (Holy Spirit). Without both, one cannot enter the Kingdom of God.
4. Faith Must Be Accompanied by Action
James 2:19–20 (ESV)
“You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?”
Even demons believe in God, yet they are not saved. True biblical faith is active, not passive. It expresses itself through obedience. This includes obeying the command to be baptized and walking in the Spirit.
5. Salvation Is a Process, Not Just a Moment
Salvation is initiated by faith, demonstrated through repentance, sealed through baptism, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. These steps are not optional they form the full gospel message preached by Jesus and the apostles.
Titus 3:5 (ESV)
“He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.”
While faith in Jesus is the starting point of salvation, the full biblical teaching includes baptism in water and receiving the Holy Spirit. This aligns with Jesus’ words in John 3:5, where He says no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.
Just as planting a seed without watering it would hinder growth, so believing in Christ without obedience through baptism leaves the work of salvation incomplete. Faith must be alive and active, demonstrated through obedience.
May the Lord help us not just to believe in His name, but to follow Him fully in faith, obedience, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
What Does the Word ” to speak against” Mean? (Psalm 78:19)
Psalm 78:18–19 (NIV)
18 They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved.
19 They spoke against God; they said, “Can God really spread a table in the wilderness?”
The world “to speak against” or “to speak contrary to” God. It’s not merely questioning it carries the tone of defiance, complaint, and unbelief. It reflects a posture of distrust, even in the face of God’s demonstrated power.
So in verse 19, when it says,
“They spoke against God, saying, ‘Can God really spread a table in the wilderness?’”
it’s not an innocent question. It’s a rebellious statement, challenging God’s ability and faithfulness.
The passage is part of a larger Psalm (Psalm 78) that recounts Israel’s repeated cycle of rebellion and God’s continued mercy. Even after God delivered them from Egypt through miraculous signs and wonders (Psalm 78:12–16), they still doubted His provision.
Their question “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?” was not born from lack of knowledge, but from a heart hardened by unbelief (cf. Hebrews 3:7–12). This question represents:
- Spiritual forgetfulness: They forgot what God had done.
- Testing God: They treated God like He needed to prove Himself again (see Deuteronomy 6:16).
- Ingratitude: Rather than giving thanks, they complained and demanded.
- Superficial faith: They believed in God’s past acts, but doubted His present and future power.
This reflects a broader biblical principle: words can either express faith or unbelief. In this case, their words revealed their deep lack of trust, and thus, they “spoke against” God.
New Testament
The same spirit of unbelief is warned against in the New Testament:
Hebrews 3:12 (NIV)
“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.”
1 Corinthians 10:10–11 (NIV)
“And do not grumble, as some of them did and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us…”
The apostle Paul reminds believers that the Israelites’ attitude in the wilderness serves as a warning. Their complaining, testing, and unbelief are patterns we must avoid.
Personal Reflection
Just like the Israelites, we may find ourselves in spiritual “wilderness” seasons times of need, testing, or uncertainty. In such times, our words matter. Will we complain and speak against God, or will we trust and praise Him even when we don’t understand His ways?
Let us be people whose speech reflects faith and gratitude, not doubt and defiance.
Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
To speak against God is to speak words of rebellion, doubt, and ingratitude it is to question His power and faithfulness, even when we have seen what He can do. May we not fall into the same trap. Instead, let our words be filled with faith, praise, and trust in the God who can not only prepare a table in the wilderness but who invites us to dine with Him in every season.
Shalom.
Learn from the Heroine Jael: The Power of Hospitality and Milk
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Welcome to this special reflection, crafted especially for women of faith who desire to grow in knowledge, character, and effectiveness in ministry. If you’re hungry for more spiritually nourishing teachings, feel free to explore more here
Today’s lesson is drawn from one of the most powerful and unique stories in Scripture the story of Jael, found in Judges 4. It teaches us that spiritual victory doesn’t always come through strength or position, but often through faith, courage, and wisdom qualities that often flourish in quiet, unexpected places.
Israel’s Oppression and Cry for Deliverance
In Judges 4, Israel had been suffering under the oppressive rule of King Jabin of Canaan and his ruthless military commander Sisera for twenty years. Scripture says:
“And the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help, for he had 900 chariots of iron and he oppressed the people of Israel cruelly for twenty years.”
Judges 4:3, ESV
In response to their cries, God raised up Deborah, a prophetess and judge over Israel, and Barak, a military leader, to lead the charge against the enemy. But Barak was reluctant to go into battle without Deborah:
“Barak said to her, ‘If you will go with me, I will go, but if you will not go with me, I will not go.’”Judges 4:8, ESV
Deborah agreed, but she gave him a sobering prophecy:
“Certainly I will go with you… but because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.”
Judges 4:9, NIV
This prophecy introduces us to one of Scripture’s most striking women: Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite.
Jael’s Moment of Destiny
As the battle unfolded, the Lord routed Sisera and his army before Barak. Sisera fled on foot and came to the tent of Jael, whom he believed to be an ally.
“But Sisera fled away on foot to the tent of Jael… for there was peace between Jabin the king of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite.”
Judges 4:17, ESV
Jael welcomed him with extraordinary hospitality, saying:
“Turn aside, my lord; turn aside to me; do not be afraid.”
Judges 4:18, ESV
He asked for water, but she gave him milk instead likely warm and comforting.
“He said, ‘Please give me a little water to drink, for I am thirsty.’ So she opened a skin of milk and gave him a drink and covered him.”
Judges 4:19, ESV
This small but significant act of nurturing hospitality made Sisera feel safe. He relaxed and fell into a deep sleep completely unaware that he had walked into divine judgment.
Then came the most dramatic twist:
“But Jael… took a tent peg and took a hammer in her hand. Then she went softly to him and drove the peg into his temple… and he died.”
Judges 4:21, ESV
By this act, Jael an unarmed, non combatant woman became the instrument God used to bring justice upon the oppressor.
Spiritual Lessons from Jael:
1. God Uses the Unexpected
Jael was not a soldier, a prophet, or a leader. She was a tent-dwelling woman, far from the battlefield. Yet God used her mightily. This reminds us of 1 Corinthians 1:27:
“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.”
1 Corinthians 1:27, ESV
2. Hospitality as a Spiritual Weapon
Her milk and kindness disarmed Sisera not violently, but emotionally and psychologically. In the New Testament, hospitality is lifted up as a form of spiritual service:
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
Hebrews 13:2, ESV
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”
1 Peter 4:8–9, NIV
3. Milk Represents the Word of God
The milk Jael offered is symbolic of the Word of God, especially the pure, foundational teachings of the gospel that nourish and strengthen the soul.
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.”
1 Peter 2:2, NIV
“I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it.”
1 Corinthians 3:2, NIV
As Christian women, we are called to nurture others through the Word offering comfort, encouragement, and truth that leads to transformation.
Your Role as a Spiritual Jael
You may not preach from a pulpit, but your quiet acts of faith, kindness, and hospitality have the power to defeat spiritual enemies and change lives.
- When you serve food, clothe the needy, or help others while speaking words of truth you are wielding spiritual weapons.
- When you love the unlovable and gently share the gospel, you are breaking strongholds.
- Like Jael, you don’t need a sword you need discernment, courage, and obedience.
Even 1 Peter 3:1–5 affirms this:
“Wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives…”
1 Peter 3:1, ESV
“Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
1 Peter 3:4, NIV
The Way of Jael Still Stands
In a time when the enemy is on the move, God is still raising women like Jael quiet but fierce, calm but strategic, nurturing but powerful. These women are reshaping families, communities, and even nations not with loudness, but with love, truth, and spiritual milk.
You don’t need a sword to win souls. You need hospitality, the Word of God, and the heart of a servant.
So, daughter of God, wherever He has placed you in your home, business, workplace, or church be a woman of influence, full of hospitality and armed with the Word. Just like Jael, you can be used by God to bring victory, healing, and transformation.
May the Lord bless you and empower you for every good work.
Amen.
