Is There a Contradiction in the Accounts of Herod Wanting to Kill John the Baptist?
(Matthew 14:5 vs. Mark 6:20 )
Question:
In Matthew 14:5, it says that Herod wanted to kill John the Baptist, but in Mark 6:20, we read that Herod feared John, respected him, and even protected him. Are these two Gospel accounts contradicting each other?
Matthew 14:3–5 (NIV):
“Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife,
for John had been saying to him: ‘It is not lawful for you to have her.’
Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered John a prophet.”
This passage highlights Herod’s initial reaction: he wanted to kill John, but he was held back by fear of public backlash. The crowds revered John as a prophet, and Herod’s political position could be threatened if he acted openly against such a respected figure.
Mark 6:17–20 (NIV):
“For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married.
For John had been saying to Herod, ‘It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.’
So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to,
because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him.”
Here, we get more nuance. Herod initially imprisoned John at the urging of Herodias, but over time, he developed a measure of respect and even admiration for John. Though John’s words disturbed him, Herod enjoyed listening to him. The passage indicates a change of heart at least temporarily.
Is There a Contradiction?
No, these accounts are not contradictory, but complementary. The Gospels are presenting different moments in Herod’s evolving relationship with John:
- Matthew 14:5 refers to Herod’s initial intention a reaction driven by anger and pride after being publicly rebuked.
- Mark 6:20 describes Herod’s subsequent internal conflict after having time to reflect and hear John’s messages, he grows fearful and protective of him.
- Herod’s heart was divided: torn between his sin and his conscience. This mirrors the biblical truth that sinners often waver under conviction drawn toward the truth, yet unwilling to fully submit to it (cf. James 1:8, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” KJV).
The Role of Herodias:
The Gospels are also clear that Herodias, not Herod, was the one constantly scheming to have John killed.
Mark 6:19 (NIV):
“So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to.”
Herodias represents unrepentant sin resentful and vengeful toward the truth. She couldn’t stand being confronted by John’s message of righteousness and judgment.
Herod’s Moral Weakness and the Trap of Oaths:
Eventually, Herod was manipulated into executing John during his birthday banquet. Herodias used her daughter (traditionally known as Salome) to request John’s head.
Matthew 14:6–10 (NIV):
“On Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much
that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked.
Prompted by her mother, she said, ‘Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.’
The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted
and had John beheaded in the prison.”
Herod did not act from personal conviction, but out of social pressure and fear of losing face. His conscience was overruled by his pride and public image a tragic pattern seen in leaders throughout history.
This highlights the danger of rash vows and valuing human praise over divine approval (cf. John 12:43, “For they loved human praise more than praise from God.” NIV).
1. Sin hardens the heart.
Herod’s initial guilt gave way to compromise. Though he respected John, he did not repent. Conviction without repentance is spiritually dangerous (see Hebrews 3:12–13).
2. It is not lawful to divorce and remarry unlawfully.
John’s rebuke to Herod “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife” was rooted in Levitical law (Leviticus 18:16; 20:21). Jesus later affirmed this moral principle:
Luke 16:18 (NIV):
“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.”
Marriage, in God’s eyes, is sacred. Adultery and wrongful unions are not simply “private matters”; they carry public and spiritual consequences.
3. Fear of man brings a snare.
Herod feared both the people (Matthew 14:5) and his peers (Matthew 14:9), more than he feared God. As Proverbs warns:
Proverbs 29:25 (ESV):
“The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.”
There is no contradiction between Matthew 14:5 and Mark 6:20. Rather, they show different stages of Herod’s internal struggle:
- Initially, he wanted to kill John.
- Later, he feared, respected, and even protected him.
- Ultimately, he succumbed to pride and pressure, ordering John’s execution against his better judgment.
The tragic end of John the Baptist is a sobering reminder that the cost of proclaiming truth is often high but so is the cost of ignoring it.
As we consider this narrative, may we be like John bold in proclaiming truth, regardless of the cost and not like Herod, torn between conviction and compromise.
Maranatha the Lord is coming!
(1 Corinthians 16:22)
Don’t Let Your Conversations Ruin Your Character
The Christian life isn’t only about avoiding sinful actions it’s also about guarding our hearts, minds, and words. The Bible clearly teaches that our speech has the power to shape or destroy our character.
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
1 Corinthians 15:33, NIV
The Greek word translated as company here is homiliai, which also means “communications” or “conversations.” Paul is warning the Corinthians not only about associating with ungodly people but about being influenced by their way of thinking and speaking.
Sin Often Begins with Words
Many sins don’t start with actions they start with talk. Whether it’s gossip, flirting, plotting evil, or sowing discord, sin often takes root in our conversations. This is why Scripture urges us to guard our speech:
“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!”
Psalm 141:3, ESV
Planning to sin usually begins with a dialogue internal or external. Murderers plot through speech (Proverbs 1:10–16), adulterers seduce with flattering lips (Proverbs 7:21), and gossips destroy relationships one word at a time (Proverbs 16:28).
Joseph: A Model of Integrity in Speech
One powerful example is Joseph in Genesis 39. When Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him, Joseph didn’t just resist her physically he also avoided conversation with her altogether:
“And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her.”
Genesis 39:10, NIV
This is significant. Joseph recognized that entertaining the conversation was the first step toward temptation. He didn’t rely on his own strength or flirt with the boundary. Instead, he removed himself from the environment that would make sin more likely.
Guarding Our Speech Guards Our Holiness
Many Christians today claim they are spiritually strong and “would never fall into sin,” yet they freely engage in casual, flirtatious, or foolish conversations especially with the opposite sex. They joke excessively, chat endlessly online, and justify “harmless talk.”
But Jesus warned us:
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”
Matthew 12:36, NIV
Paul also commands believers to avoid crude talk, gossip, and foolish joking:
“Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”
Ephesians 5:4, ESV
When you engage in idle or impure conversation, especially with people who don’t know God, you’re giving the enemy a foothold (Ephesians 4:27). Conversations are spiritual doors you must choose carefully which ones you open.
Words Shape Character
We become what we repeatedly say and hear. That’s why Scripture warns that evil speech isn’t harmless it actually corrupts what is good in us:
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
1 Corinthians 15:33, NIV
This is not merely a social principle it is a spiritual law.
As James writes:
“The tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.”
James 3:6, ESV
Application: Guard Your Mouth, Guard Your Life
If you care about your spiritual integrity, you must take control of your speech. Cut off conversations that do not glorify God especially those that open the door to temptation. Be especially cautious in your interactions with the opposite sex, and those who do not share your faith.
“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”
Proverbs 21:23, ESV
Maranatha The Lord is Coming
In these last days, the enemy is cunning he often doesn’t attack with obvious sin, but with casual compromise. Don’t be deceived into thinking conversations don’t matter. They shape your heart, and your heart shapes your destiny.
Guard your speech as if your spiritual life depends on it because it does.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Proverbs 4:23, NIV
Maranatha The Lord is coming soon. May He find us faithful in speech, thought, and action.
The Covenant of a Powerful Heart
Understanding the Shift from Stone Tablets to Transformed Hearts in God’s Redemptive Plan
1. God’s Law Written on Stone
The first time God gave His law, He inscribed it with His own finger on tablets of stone. These commandments formed the heart of the Mosaic Covenant, given to Israel at Mount Sinai.
Exodus 31:18 (NIV)
“When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, He gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.”
These tablets were a direct manifestation of God’s will for His people. However, when Moses came down and saw Israel worshiping the golden calf, he shattered the tablets symbolizing how the people had already broken the covenant even before receiving it.
Later, God commanded Moses to prepare two new tablets.
Exodus 34:1 (NIV)
“The Lord said to Moses, ‘Chisel out two stone tablets like the first ones, and I will write on them the words that were on the first tablets, which you broke.’”
These tablets, placed inside the Ark of the Covenant, were central to Israel’s identity and worship. But during the Babylonian conquest (6th century BCE), King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the temple and looted Jerusalem, and the Ark along with its sacred contents was lost.
2. A New Covenant Written on the Heart
But God had always planned something greater: a New Covenant, not external and ceremonial, but internal and transformative. Through the prophet Jeremiah, God promised a future covenant that would not be based on stone, but on the hearts of His people.
Jeremiah 31:31–34 (NIV)
“‘The days are coming,’ declares the Lord, ‘when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.
It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors… because they broke my covenant…
This is the covenant I will make… I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me… For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.’”
This is not merely symbolic it represents a shift from external legalism to internal transformation, made possible through faith in Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
3. Fulfillment Through Christ
The New Covenant is fully realized in Jesus Christ, who declares Himself the fulfillment of the Law and the one who brings this new covenant through His blood.
Luke 22:20 (NIV)
“In the same way, after the supper He took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.’”
Jesus’ death satisfied the requirements of the Law (see Romans 8:3-4), and through His resurrection, He made it possible for believers to receive new hearts capable of obedience not out of duty, but out of love.
4. The Law Now Flows from Within
With the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers (see 1 Corinthians 6:19), the law of God is no longer imposed from outside. Instead, it becomes a living reality that flows from a renewed heart.
Deuteronomy 30:11–14 (NIV)
“Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach… The word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it.”
Paul, quoting this in Romans, explains that righteousness now comes through faith, not works.
Romans 10:8–10 (NIV)
“But what does it say? ‘The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,’ that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim:
If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
Faith in Christ transforms the heart and in that heart, God writes His will.
5. The Role of the Holy Spirit
The agent through whom the New Covenant is applied is the Holy Spirit. According to Ezekiel 36:26–27, God promises:
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
And I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow My decrees and be careful to keep My laws.”
This is why believers who are truly born again don’t need to be constantly reminded not to sin because the Spirit convicts, guides, and empowers obedience from within.
As Paul teaches:
Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
6. Self Examination: Has God’s Law Been Written in You?
So the critical question is not just, “Do you know the commandments?” but rather:
“Has God’s law been written on your heart?”
Have you believed in Jesus Christ, confessed Him as Lord, and surrendered your heart to Him? Has the Holy Spirit transformed your inner being so that obedience flows from desire, not obligation?
2 Corinthians 3:3 (NIV)
“You show that you are a letter from Christ… written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”
The New Covenant Is Now
We are no longer bound to the Old Covenant of stone, ritual, and distance. We are invited into a New Covenant alive, internal, intimate. When we receive Jesus, God Himself writes His law into our hearts, by His Spirit.
Hebrews 10:16 (NIV)
“‘This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.’”
This is the essence of New Testament Christianity: not lawlessness, but a higher law, engraved not on stone, but in our very souls.
Maranatha The Lord is Coming!
What Is a Blemish? A Biblical Perspective
In the Bible, a blemish refers to a physical or spiritual defect that disqualifies a person, offering, or object from being acceptable before God. The term originates in the Old Testament, where sacrifices brought to God had to be “without blemish” symbolizing purity, perfection, and holiness (Leviticus 1:3, ESV). In the New Testament, the concept is extended spiritually: believers are called to live lives without moral or spiritual blemish as they prepare to meet Christ.
Understanding the Meaning of “Blemish”
A blemish is any defect, stain, or flaw that corrupts the integrity or purity of something. In practical terms, it could be a boil on someone’s face that mars their beauty, a hole in a roofing sheet that renders it unusable, or a stain on a clean white shirt that makes it unsuitable for wear.
Spiritually, a blemish is a moral or ethical fault sin, hypocrisy, or ungodliness that renders a believer unfit for holy service or disqualifies them from walking in communion with God.
Blemish in the Old Testament: A Symbol of Unacceptability
In the Old Testament sacrificial system, offerings had to be without blemish:
Leviticus 1:3 (ESV): “If his offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he shall offer a male without blemish. He shall bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting, that he may be accepted before the Lord.”
This requirement foreshadowed the perfect, unblemished sacrifice of Christ. Physical blemishes in the Old Testament symbolized deeper spiritual flaws that God would one day remove through Jesus.
Christ: The Perfect Sacrifice Without Blemish
Jesus fulfilled the requirement of a blemish free offering through His sinless life and sacrificial death:
1 Peter 1:18–19 (NIV): “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed… but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”
Because Christ was without sin, His sacrifice was acceptable to God. In Him, believers are now called to reflect that same holiness.
Believers Must Also Be Without Blemish
God expects His church those redeemed by Christ to be without blemish in their conduct and character. Spiritual blemishes include hidden sins, hypocrisy, and moral failures.
Colossians 1:21–22 (NIV):
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you… to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.”
This is not perfection by human effort but by abiding in Christ and walking in repentance, obedience, and faith.
Examples of Spiritual Blemishes Today
- A believer who ministers in church while secretly living in sexual immorality or cohabiting with someone who is not their spouse.
- A youth leader who appears righteous outwardly but watches pornography or engages in dishonest behavior online.
- A church member who fasts, prays, and attends all night services but accepts bribes at work.
Such lifestyles reflect spiritual blemishes that disqualify us from holy living and from truly representing Christ.
God Is Coming for a Church Without Blemish
The church is described as the bride of Christ, and Christ is returning for a bride who is pure and spotless.
Ephesians 5:27 (ESV):
“So that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.”
This calls for continual purification through the Word and the work of the Holy Spirit in sanctifying our lives.
A Call to Pure and Blameless Living
We are charged to keep God’s commandments and live in such a way that no blemish or blame is found in us:
1 Timothy 6:13–14 (NIV):
“In the sight of God… I charge you to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
And:
James 1:27 (NIV):
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
This kind of religion is not ritualistic but relational, ethical, and self controlled.
Hebrews 9:14 (NIV):
“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ… cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!”
2 Peter 2:13 (NIV):
“They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you.”
These verses reinforce the seriousness of living a life that is holy, untainted, and prepared for Christ’s return.
Let us strive, by God’s grace, to be the kind of believers and the kind of church that Christ is coming back for without blemish, without spot, and without blame. May our lives be living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).
May the Lord bless you and give you strength to walk in holiness.
Adorning Women Who Profess GodlinessSpecial Lessons for Women
Bless the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Bible, the inspired Word of God, described as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105, ESV).
Are you a woman longing to find favor and respect among people? Perhaps you are a young woman desiring a blessed and honorable marriage, or a married woman seeking God’s blessing and greater honor in your union. If so, it is essential to understand the kind of adornment God calls His daughters to embrace.
The Biblical Foundation of Adornment
The Bible contrasts two approaches to adornment external beautification and inward spiritual beauty. The apostle Peter writes:
1 Peter 3:3-6 (NIV)
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 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. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.”
Inner Beauty as God’s Standard
Peter teaches that true beauty is not external or transient but inward and eternal. The “gentle and quiet spirit” (Greek praus and hesuchia) encompasses humility, meekness, and a peaceful demeanor qualities the New Testament repeatedly values (cf. Galatians 5:22-23; Colossians 3:12). This inward adornment aligns with God’s holiness and reflects a heart submitted to Him.
Sarah’s example underscores a profound theological truth: godly submission and reverence toward one’s husband reflecting a broader submission to God’s order (Ephesians 5:22-24) is itself a form of spiritual adornment and beauty.
Historical and Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, women had access to various cosmetics and ornaments. However, the holy women of Scripture, by divine revelation, rejected outward adornments that might foster pride or vanity (cf. Isaiah 3:16-24; Ezekiel 23:40) in favor of cultivating inward virtues respect, gentleness, obedience, and calmness.
Rebekah’s modesty in covering her head when meeting Isaac (Genesis 24:65-67, ESV) signals submission and honor, traits that gained her favor with Isaac and God’s blessing, becoming the matriarch of Israel (Romans 9:10-13).
The Danger of Worldly Adornments
The Bible warns that reliance on external adornments risks vanity, pride, and moral compromise. Jezebel’s example (2 Kings 9:30; Revelation 2:20-22) illustrates how outward beauty combined with sinfulness leads to judgment. The use of cosmetics and revealing attire without godly character contrasts sharply with the call to holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Incompatibility of External Glamour and Inner Godliness
Scripture teaches that one cannot simultaneously pursue worldly outward beauty and the inner qualities of meekness and submission. Outward adornment often fosters pride and lust (James 1:14-15), while true godly beauty produces humility and peace (Philippians 2:3-4).
If external and internal adornments were compatible, the Bible would not warn women against outward adornments but encourage both. Instead, it distinctly values modesty and inward grace over external show (1 Timothy 2:9-10, NIV):
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
Adornment and Holiness Today
Modern Christian women are called to mirror these biblical principles, recognizing their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, ESV). True godliness is expressed through modesty, good works, and a heart devoted to God not through fashion trends or makeup advertisements.
Dear sisters, whether single or married, if you desire to please God and find favor in the eyes of others, embrace the biblical standard of adornment. Cultivate inner beauty marked by humility, gentleness, and a quiet spirit. Let your outward appearance reflect modesty and respect for your natural self, honoring God and your calling.
By doing so, like Sarah and Rebekah, you will be blessed, gain favor with your spouse and community, and store up treasures in heaven where true beauty never fades (Matthew 6:19-21).
May the Lord richly bless you as you seek to adorn yourself in a manner worthy of His calling.
What Is Divinity?
(1 Peter 1:3–4, 2 Peter 1:3–4)
Key Scripture:
2 Peter 1:3–4 (NIV)
“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.”
Understanding “Divinity”
Divinity refers to the state of being like God or possessing God’s nature. It means to reflect God’s character in thought, behavior, and action. Just as evil actions (like murder, witchcraft, or sexual immorality) are rightly described as “demonic” or “satanic” because they reflect the works of Satan, godly actions such as love, holiness, and righteousness reflect divine character.
To possess divinity is not to become God, but to partake in God’s nature through regeneration (new birth) and sanctification. This divine nature is only found in those who have been born again by the Spirit of God (John 3:3–6).
Three Marks of the Divine Nature in Believers
1. Eternal Life (Zoe Life)
John 10:28 (NIV)
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
John 10:34 (NIV)
“Jesus answered them, ‘Is it not written in your Law, “I have said you are ‘gods’”?’”
God grants eternal life (Greek: Zoe) to those who believe in Him. This is not merely life that lasts forever, but a quality of life that flows from God Himself. Those born of God receive this divine life, while those who remain in the flesh (natural, unsaved state) remain spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1).
Jesus quoted Psalm 82:6 in John 10:34 to show that those who are united with God in purpose and authority can be called “gods” in the sense of being His representatives though always subordinate to Him.
2. The Fruit of the Spirit (God’s Character in Us)
Galatians 5:22–25 (NIV)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
The divine nature is expressed in the life of the believer through the Fruit of the Spirit. These are not just moral behaviors they are the supernatural result of the Holy Spirit working in us.
Unlike the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19–21), these traits come from a transformed heart. They cannot be manufactured by mere human effort or religious performance.
Romans 5:5 (NIV)
“…because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
This fruit reveals the indwelling presence of God Himself.
3. Victory Over Sin
1 John 3:9 (NIV)
“No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God.”
1 Peter 4:4 (NIV)
“They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.”
Those who have God’s nature are not slaves to sin. While believers are not sinless (1 John 1:8), the direction of their life is away from sin and toward righteousness. The “seed” of God (Greek: sperma) remains in them referring to the life-giving Word of God and the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit.
This transformation causes the world to view believers as strange or different, because they no longer conform to sinful lifestyles. This is sanctification the ongoing process of being made holy, as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15–16).
Supporting Scriptures on Divinity
Acts 17:29 (NIV)
“Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone an image made by human design and skill.”
Paul affirms that humans were created to reflect God’s image, not to worship man-made images. Those who are His “offspring” share in His moral likeness.
Romans 1:20 (NIV)
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities his eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
God’s nature is visible in creation and fully revealed in Christ, who is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).
Through Christ, believers partake in this divine nature.
To walk in divinity is to share in God’s life, character, and victory. It’s not about becoming divine in essence, but about reflecting God’s holiness, power, and love through Christ.
Only those who are born again transformed by the Word and Spirit of God can truly possess and live out the divine nature.
May the Lord bless you and help you grow in His divine nature, that your life would reflect His glory in the world.
Amen.
The Mighty Weapon of the Angels
Introduction: Knowing the Enemy and the Battle
The Christian life is not a playground it’s a battleground. The Bible reminds us that we are in a spiritual war, and our adversary, the devil, is relentless.
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
(1 Peter 5:8, NKJV)
Understanding how to confront the devil is vital. While there are times to engage directly in spiritual warfare, there are also powerful moments when the best strategy is to invoke the Lord’s authority rather than relying solely on our own.
1. What Does It Mean to Rebuke?
To rebuke means to correct, reprimand, or command something to stop by using authority. In spiritual terms, it is a forceful declaration that something must cease or flee in the name and power of Jesus Christ.
Jesus frequently rebuked evil spirits and forces of darkness:
“And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour.”
(Matthew 17:18, NKJV)
Even His rebuke toward Peter though human was spiritually directed, recognizing that Satan was influencing Peter’s mindset:
“But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, ‘Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.’”
(Mark 8:33, NKJV)
Key Insight:
Believers today have authority through Jesus Christ to rebuke evil, but this authority is not about volume or emotion it’s about spiritual positioning and understanding the power of God’s Word.
2. Angels and Spiritual Warfare: A Surprising Strategy
Though angels are powerful beings (Psalm 103:20), they do not always use brute strength to defeat Satan. Instead, they appeal to God’s supreme authority.
The Example of Michael the Archangel
“Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’”
(Jude 1:9, NKJV)
Michael did not rely on his own power. He deferred to the Lord’s authority. Why? Because God’s judgment is final and absolute.
“The LORD is a man of war; The LORD is His name.”
(Exodus 15:3, NKJV)
The High Priest Joshua and Divine Rebuke
Another similar account is found in the book of Zechariah:
“Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him. And the LORD said to Satan, ‘The LORD rebuke you, Satan! The LORD who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?’”
(Zechariah 3:1–2, NKJV)
Joshua was not instructed to rebuke Satan himself. The rebuke came from the Lord highlighting again that divine authority surpasses angelic or human effort.
3. Why God’s Rebuke is More Powerful Than Ours
When the Lord rebukes, it carries eternal authority. Demonic forces must obey. As believers, our strength does not lie in personal power or spiritual aggression, but in positioning ourselves under God’s authority.
“Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
(James 4:7, NKJV)
This submission is not passive it’s strategic. We are to worship, fast, and pray, yes but also to know when to stand still and let God fight.
“The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”
(Exodus 14:14, NKJV)
4. The Example of Queen Esther: Wisdom in Warfare
Queen Esther is a model of spiritual strategy. When Haman plotted to destroy her people, she didn’t confront him directly. Instead, she went to the king symbolizing our appeal to the ultimate authority, God Himself.
“Then Queen Esther answered and said, ‘If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request.’”
(Esther 7:3, NKJV)
She invited the king and her enemy to banquets, twice. Her patience, honor, and spiritual discernment gave the king space to act. In the end, it was the king’s word that destroyed Haman not Esther’s fight.
Likewise, when we bring our case before God in humility and faith, He takes vengeance on our behalf.
“Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.
(Romans 12:19, NKJV)
5. How to Use This Weapon Today
So how do we apply this principle?
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Don’t be quick to always battle in your own strength. First, draw near to God.
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Worship Him, give sacrificially, serve Him faithfully.
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Host Him in your heart like Esther hosted the king through prayer, praise, and surrender.
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Then boldly say: “Lord, rebuke my enemy!”
“Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered; Let those also who hate Him flee before Him.”
(Psalm 68:1, NKJV)
Let the Lord Do the Fighting
Your problems may have persisted for years sickness, oppression, fear but when the Lord rebukes the enemy, there is total deliverance. And that issue? It will not return again.
“Affliction will not rise up a second time.”
(Nahum 1:9, NKJV)
So worship Him. Love Him. Draw close. And in the right time, say:
“Lord, rebuke my enemy.”
“Lord, take over this battle.”
And watch the mighty hand of God work wonders in your life.
May the Lord bless you richly.
Shalom.
What Kind of Animals Are gecko and sand lizard ?(Leviticus 11:30)
Biblical Background: The Law of Clean and Unclean Animals
In Leviticus 11, God gave the Israelites specific dietary laws distinguishing clean from unclean animals. These laws were part of the Mosaic Covenant, meant to set Israel apart as a holy people devoted to the Lord (cf.
Leviticus 11:44–45, ESV: “For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy…”).
Leviticus 11:29–31 (ESV):
“And these are unclean to you among the swarming things that swarm on the ground: the mole rat, the mouse, the great lizard of any kind,
the gecko, the monitor lizard, the lizard, the sand lizard, and the chameleon.
These are unclean to you among all that swarm. Whoever touches them when they are dead shall be unclean until the evening.”
In this passage, gecko-like creatures are lizards that dwell in trees, while sand lizard refers to rock-dwelling or ground lizards, such as agamas or skinks. Both were considered ceremonially unclean in ancient Israel.
Why Were These Animals Declared Unclean?
The classification was not based on nutritional or toxicological concerns. Rather, it reflected symbolic and spiritual principles:
- Moral symbolism: Many scholars interpret unclean animals as representing spiritual impurity or moral corruption. These animals often had characteristics (e.g., scavenging, creeping, hiding) associated with deceit, idolatry, or spiritual uncleanness (cf. Isaiah 65:4, Revelation 18:2).
- Holiness separation: The dietary laws helped Israel remain distinct from surrounding pagan nations, who often included such creatures in rituals or diets.
New Covenant Understanding: Freedom in Christ
With the coming of Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, the ceremonial laws including dietary restrictions were fulfilled in Him.
Mark 7:18–19 (NIV):
“‘Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.’ (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.)”
Acts 10:13–15 (ESV):
“And there came a voice to him: ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But Peter said, ‘By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.’
And the voice came to him again a second time, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’”
These passages show that dietary restrictions no longer apply to believers in Christ. What matters now is the spiritual condition of the heart, not the external observance of ceremonial laws.
Christian Liberty and Personal Discernment
Even though eating animals like gecko and sand lizard is now biblically permissible, the New Testament emphasizes wisdom, love, and sensitivity to others when exercising our freedom.
1 Corinthians 10:23 (NIV):
“‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’ but not everything is constructive.”
If certain foods are culturally unacceptable, repulsive, or a stumbling block to others, it is perfectly acceptable and wise not to eat them. However, choosing not to eat them does not make one more righteous, nor does eating them defile a believer in Christ.
Gecko and sand lizard Today
Biblically, gecko and sand lizard are no longer considered unclean under the New Covenant. While they may not be widely accepted as food in many cultures, consuming them is not sinful. Believers are called to exercise their freedom in Christ responsibly, always guided by love, wisdom, and holiness.
Maranatha “The Lord is coming.” (1 Corinthians 16:22)
WALK WITHIN YOUR SUKKOTHA
This message is part of an ongoing series dedicated to equipping God’s servants. Whether you serve as a pastor, teacher, apostle, bishop, prophet, or in any other leadership capacity in the body of Christ, these insights are especially for you.
A Shepherd’s Wisdom: Understanding the Pace of the Flock
In Genesis 33, Jacob prepares to meet his brother Esau after years of separation. The reunion, though potentially tense due to their past conflict (Genesis 27:41), turns out to be peaceful and filled with reconciliation a profound act of divine grace and restoration (cf. Proverbs 16:7).
But after this emotional reunion, a subtle yet theologically rich moment unfolds. Esau invites Jacob to travel with him, but Jacob gently declines. His reason reveals the heart of a true shepherd:
“My lord knows that the children are tender and that I must care for the ewes and cows that are nursing their young. If they are driven hard even one day, all the animals will die.”
(Genesis 33:13, NIV)
Jacob understood that the people and livestock under his care required a slower, more considerate pace. He said:
“So let my lord go on ahead of his servant, while I move along slowly at the pace of the herds before me and the children…”
(Genesis 33:14, NIV)
This shows us several key principles:
1. Leadership Requires Discernment and Compassion
Jacob’s choice reflects a theological truth: good leadership is not about speed but stewardship. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, exemplifies this in John 10:11, saying:
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
A shepherd doesn’t push the sheep to exhaustion he leads them gently, according to their ability to follow. Compare this to Isaiah 40:11:
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
(Isaiah 40:11, NIV)
Jacob models this kind of leadership, putting the welfare of his flock above the convenience of traveling with Esau.
2. Ministry Includes the Weak and the Vulnerable
The Church, like Jacob’s camp, is diverse. It includes spiritual infants (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:1–2), the wounded, the maturing, and the strong. Paul recognized this in Romans 14:1:
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.”
And in 1 Thessalonians 5:14:
“…Encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.”
Jacob’s decision to slow down teaches us to avoid placing unreasonable expectations on those we lead. Ministry must adapt to meet people where they are, not where we wish they were.
3. Sukkoth: A Place of Shelter and Strategy
“Jacob, however, went to Sukkoth, where he built a place for himself and made shelters for his livestock. That is why the place is called Sukkoth.”
(Genesis 33:17, NIV)
The name Sukkoth means “booths” or “shelters” in Hebrew (סֻכּוֹת), symbolizing protection and preparation. This foreshadows later biblical themes such as the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) in Leviticus 23:42–43, where Israel was commanded to dwell in booths to remember God’s provision during the wilderness.
Jacob building shelters also reflects the principle of pastoral foresight. Leaders must create spiritual “Sukkoths” places of rest, healing, and protection for their congregations. Jesus calls the weary to such a place in:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
(Matthew 11:28, NIV)
4. Rushing Ahead Can Lead to Loss
Jacob recognized that a hurried journey could cost him dearly. Leaders must guard against the temptation to “arrive” at ministry milestones quickly. As seen in Ecclesiastes 7:8:
“The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.”
Moses himself slowed his pace for the sake of the people (see Numbers 9:18–23). He moved when the cloud moved not before. Like Moses, like Jacob, we must learn that divine timing often requires pastoral patience.
Build Your Sukkoth
Jacob didn’t just slow down he built. He created a temporary sanctuary for his people, a place of shelter in the journey. Likewise, leaders today must create spiritual Sukkoths safe spaces for growth, healing, and rest within the local church.
Let us not measure our success by speed or size, but by faithfulness to God and care for His people. In all things, walk with your flock don’t run ahead of them.
May the Lord bless you as you lead with wisdom, patience, and compassion.
Shalom.
What Were the Silver Shrines of Artemis?
(Acts 19:24)
Answer: Let’s Examine the Scriptures and Historical Context
Acts 19:24 (NKJV):
“For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen.”
In the first-century city of Ephesus, a center of commerce and pagan religion, the worship of Artemis (also known as Diana in Roman mythology) was deeply embedded in the culture. The Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a colossal structure dedicated to a fertility goddess believed to influence nature, childbirth, and prosperity.
According to Acts 19, a man named Demetrius, a silversmith by trade, made miniature silver shrines of Artemis. These portable idols were sold to both locals and pilgrims who visited Ephesus for religious festivals. These shrines represented not only the goddess but also served as talismans and symbols of allegiance.
The Theology of True vs. False Worship
The Bible clearly distinguishes between the worship of the true and living God and the worship of idols, which it equates with worshiping demons.
Deuteronomy 32:17 (NKJV):
“They sacrificed to demons, not to God, to gods they did not know, to new gods, new arrivals that your fathers did not fear.”
Psalm 96:5 (NKJV):
“For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.”
The only temple ever sanctioned by God in the Old Testament was located in Jerusalem, where His name and presence dwelt (1 Kings 8:10–11). Any other “temple” outside of this, including that of Artemis, was considered pagan and blasphemous. Worship in these temples was directed toward false deities and, according to Paul, ultimately toward Satan (1 Corinthians 10:20).
The Confrontation in Ephesus: Gospel vs. Idolatry
When Paul the Apostle preached in Ephesus, he boldly declared that “gods made with hands are not gods at all” (Acts 19:26). This deeply challenged the religious and economic systems built around idol worship. As people turned to Jesus Christ, the one true God incarnate (John 1:14, Colossians 2:9), they abandoned their former religious practices, including sorcery and idolatry.
Acts 19:18–20 (NKJV):
“And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds.
Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.
So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.”
This mass repentance shows the power of the Gospel to confront and dismantle spiritual strongholds both religious and economic.
The Power of the Gospel
Paul was never intimidated by pagan culture, demonic power, or economic systems tied to sin. His confidence came from knowing the power of the Gospel of Christ.
Romans 1:16 (NKJV):
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.”
The Greek word for “power” here is dunamis, from which we get the word dynamite. The Gospel doesn’t merely inform it transforms.
Spiritual Warfare and Idolatry
Idol worship is not just a cultural issue but a spiritual warfare issue. Paul explains that behind idols are spiritual strongholds that must be torn down through the truth of the Word of God.
2 Corinthians 10:4–6 (NKJV):
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”
The Gospel not only saves the soul but renews the mind (Romans 12:2) and breaks the spiritual bondage caused by idolatry and deception.
Modern Relevance: The Gospel Still Conquers Idolatry
Though Artemis is no longer worshiped today, modern forms of idolatry persist money, fame, materialism, and false spirituality. Yet the power of God in Christ still breaks chains.
As believers, we must never be ashamed of the Gospel or intimidated by the cultural norms around us. Christ is still calling His people to come out of Babylon (Revelation 18:4) to separate from false worship and walk in truth.
Maranatha The Lord is Coming!
Let us continue proclaiming the Gospel with boldness, knowing it is God’s power to save and transform lives.
1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NKJV):
“For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”
Maranatha “Our Lord comes!” (1 Corinthians 16:22)
