Destroyed and Separated from His People
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In Acts 3:22-23 (NKJV), Moses prophesied about the coming Messiah:
“For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’”
This prophecy points directly to Jesus Christ. The question we face is: When will people who reject Jesus be destroyed and separated from His people?
Today, many ignore or disobey Jesus, but we don’t yet see them destroyed or socially isolated in a final sense.
The passage reveals two things that will happen simultaneously to those who reject Christ:
- Destruction (Judgment and eternal punishment)
- Separation (from God, His people, and His creation)
When will this take place? The New Testament clarifies this moment:
In 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 (ESV), Paul describes the return of Christ and the judgment of the disobedient:
“When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might.”
This passage teaches us that rejection of the gospel results in eternal separation from God’s presence and His glorious power. Theologically, this is the “second death” or eternal condemnation (Revelation 20:14-15), where God’s justice is executed on those who refuse salvation through Christ.
Moreover, this separation is both relational and cosmic. They will be separated from fellow believers (illustrated in Jesus’ parable of the Sheep and the Goats in Matthew 25:31-46) and from God’s created order, as the wicked are removed from the land:
Proverbs 2:21-22 (NIV) says:
“For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the unfaithful will be torn from it.”
This confirms that the destiny of the wicked is to be cut off, which speaks to both spiritual and physical removal from God’s blessing.
This separation from God is the most severe consequence because God is the source of life and blessing. To be cut off from God is to face eternal destruction a sobering reality.
Many today reject Jesus and His Gospel, falsely thinking there is another way to heaven. But Jesus clearly said in John 14:6 (NIV):
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
This exclusive claim highlights the central Christian doctrine of salvation through Christ alone.
Practical implications:
The end of the age is approaching, and Jesus calls us to repent and follow Him. The Gospel commands holiness living in truth and love. This includes avoiding sin like theft, adultery, and disrespecting God’s design (e.g., dressing modestly, honoring one’s body), reflecting God’s holiness.
- Rejecting Christ leads to eternal destruction and separation from God’s presence and glory.
- This will be fully realized at Christ’s return and final judgment.
- Jesus is the only way to salvation.
- We must respond now by accepting Him and living according to His teachings.
Why Did God Forbid Taking a Millstone as Collateral?
(Deuteronomy 24:6)
Scripture Reference:
“Do not take a pair of millstones not even the upper one as security for a debt, because that would be taking a person’s livelihood as security.”
Deuteronomy 24:6, NIV
“It is wrong to take a set of millstones, or even just the upper millstone, as security for a loan, for the owner uses it to make a living.” Deuteronomy 24:6, NLT
Historical and Cultural Context
In biblical times, the millstone was a vital household tool used for grinding grain to make flour an essential part of daily life. It was composed of two stones: a lower (stationary) stone and an upper (rotating) one. This tool was not a luxury it was as essential as a cooking pot or a stove is today.
Because it was central to survival, particularly for poor families who ground their own grain for daily meals, God strictly prohibited it from being taken as collateral for a loan.
God’s law in Deuteronomy 24:6 reveals His heart for justice and compassion especially for the poor and vulnerable. Taking a millstone as a pledge wasn’t just seizing a piece of property it was equivalent to taking someone’s very life, because it deprived them of their ability to feed themselves and their family.
This aligns with other laws found in the Torah that protect human dignity, even in economic transactions:
Exodus 22:26-27 (NIV)
“If you take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset, because that cloak is the only covering your ne
ighbor has… When they cry out to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.”
Leviticus 25:35-37 (NIV)
“If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves… do not take int
erest or any profit from them, but fear your God…”
These laws collectively point to a key biblical principle: economics must never override mercy.
Practical and Spiritual Lessons
- God Prioritizes Human Life Over Financial Gain
The law protects the poor by ensuring that their basic tools for survival aren’t confiscated. This shows that God values life more than material repayment. - Lending Should Be Anchored in Compassion
As Christians, we are encouraged to lend generously without expecting anything in return, especially when helping those in dire need.
“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42 (NIV)
- Faith That Reflects God’s Justice and Mercy
Believers are called to mirror God’s character not just in worship, but in daily interactions, including business and finance.
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” Isaiah 1:17 (NIV)
God’s command not to take a millstone as a pledge isn’t just about ancient lending practices it reveals a divine standard of mercy, justice, and compassion. We are reminded that helping the poor should come from a heart of love, not from a desire for profit. When we reflect this grace, we honor God and make our faith attractive to others.
May the Lord bless you as you walk in His wisdom and love.
Did Jesus and His Disciples Really Not Wash Their Hands Before Eating?
A Biblical and Theological Perspective
This question often arises from a reading of Matthew 15:2 and Luke 11:38, where it appears Jesus and His disciples are being criticized for eating without washing their hands. But a careful theological and contextual examination shows something deeper than simply hygiene.
1. The Accusation Was About Tradition, Not Hygiene
Matthew 15:1–2 (ESV):
“Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, ‘Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat.'”
The Pharisees weren’t accusing the disciples of unsanitary behavior, but of violating the tradition of the elders a set of oral laws added by religious leaders over time. These were not commands from God (as in the Mosaic Law), but human traditions that developed over centuries.
Similarly, in Luke 11:37–38, the issue is ceremonial:
Luke 11:38 (ESV):
“The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner.”
The Greek word used here for “wash” is baptizō, which often implies a ritual immersion, not just casual hand washing. The Pharisee’s shock wasn’t about hygiene it was about Jesus not following a ritual purification custom.
2. Jesus and the Disciples Practiced Normal Cleanliness
It is reasonable to believe that Jesus and His disciples followed normal hygienic practices. Jesus was not against physical cleanliness in fact, He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:5), a humbling act of service and hygiene.
John 13:10 (ESV):
“Jesus said to him, ‘The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean…'”
This shows Jesus acknowledged the importance of cleanliness, but also pointed to a deeper spiritual meaning behind physical acts.
3. The Real Issue: Elevating Human Tradition Above God’s Word
Jesus confronted the Pharisees not because He was against ritual itself, but because they elevated tradition above the commandment of God.
Mark 7:2–4 (ESV):
“They saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed… and there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.”Then in Mark 7:6–9, Jesus rebukes them:
“Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me… You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.’”
Thus, Jesus used this moment to teach that true defilement comes from within not from breaking man-made rules.
4. Spiritual Cleanliness Over Ceremonial Acts
Matthew 15:17–19 (ESV):
“Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.”
Jesus emphasized that righteousness is a matter of the heart. Clean hands do not equal a clean heart. The Pharisees focused on outward appearance, but Jesus called for inward transformation (see also Psalm 51:10 “Create in me a clean heart, O God”).
5. What This Means for Believers Today
This teaching challenges us to:
- Avoid elevating man-made traditions above Scripture.
- Focus on inward purity rather than outward performance.
- Understand that obedience to God flows from a transformed heart, not rituals.
- Still uphold basic cleanliness and hygiene, as a matter of health and respect, even though it’s not tied to righteousness.
Jesus and His disciples did not violate God’s law by not washing their hands ceremonially. Rather, they exposed the emptiness of outward religion without inner transformation. They likely observed normal hygiene, but did not submit to traditions that held no spiritual value. True cleanliness before God comes from the heart a heart purified by faith and grace, not by external rituals.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8 (ESV)
May the Lord guide us to walk in true holiness, from the inside out.
Why Was Oil Still Used for Healing Even After Jesus Came?
Understanding the Role of Anointing Oil in New Testament Healing Ministry
In Mark 6:12–13 (NIV), we read:
“They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.”
This passage raises an important theological question:
Why did Jesus’ disciples use oil for healing when the Son of God Himself was already on earth with divine power?
1. Jesus Used Various Methods to Heal
Jesus, in His divine wisdom and power, healed in many different ways not bound to a single method. This shows that healing is not about the method but about divine authority and faith.
By word alone:
“He said to the paralyzed man, ‘I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.’”
— Mark 2:10–12
By physical touch:
“Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’”
— Mark 1:41
By action-based obedience:
“As they went, they were cleansed.”
Luke 17:14 (ten lepers)
Using physical elements as symbolic acts:
“He spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.”
John 9:6
None of these were rigid formulas. Jesus healed in ways that stirred faith, met people at their point of need, and glorified God.
2. Anointing Oil: A Symbol, Not a Sacrament
When Jesus sent His disciples out in Mark 6, He empowered them with authority over evil spirits and the sick. Anointing oil was used as a symbolic act of consecration and healing, rooted in Old Testament tradition.
- Oil in the Old Testament was often used for:
- Consecration (Exodus 30:30)
- Sanctification (Leviticus 8:10–12)
- Symbolizing the Holy Spirit (1 Samuel 16:13)
In the New Testament, oil is not discarded but it’s never seen as the power source itself. The power is always from God through faith, not the substance used.
3. The Early Church Practice (James 5)
Many also refer to James 5:14–15 (NIV) to justify modern use of oil:
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.
And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”
This passage emphasizes prayer and repentance first. The oil is used in the name of the Lord under His authority, not apart from it. It is faith and God’s mercy that brings healing.
4. Avoiding the Danger of Ritualism and Idolatry
God sometimes instructed the use of specific items (e.g., Moses’ bronze serpent in Numbers 21:8–9), but later, the people turned it into an idol. Eventually, King Hezekiah destroyed it:
“He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it.”
— 2 Kings 18:4 (NIV)
Similarly, if oil or any other object becomes central instead of Christ, it becomes idolatry. We must never rely on external symbols at the expense of repentance, faith, and obedience.
5. The Name of Jesus: Our Ultimate Authority
Scripture makes it clear: it is the name of Jesus that brings healing and salvation:
“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)
“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons… they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
— Mark 16:17–18 (NIV)
Our faith must rest not in oil, water, or ritual but in Jesus Christ, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Final Word
God may still, on occasion, lead someone to use oil, salt, or water as a symbolic act but this must come through clear spiritual guidance, not as a default practice or commercialized “formula.” When healing practices are disconnected from true repentance and the gospel message, they lose their power and risk becoming religious showmanship.
Let’s return to the true gospel:
Repentance, faith in Jesus, the power of His name, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
May the Lord bless you with discernment and a renewed focus on Christ alone.
I KNOW YOUR DEEDS
(A Wake Up Call to the Church)
Throughout Scripture especially in Revelation Jesus repeatedly opens His messages to the churches with the chilling phrase:
“I know your deeds.”
Let’s look at a few examples:
Revelation 2:2 (NIV) “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance…”
Revelation 2:19 (NIV) “I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance…”
Revelation 3:1 (NIV) “I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.”
Revelation 3:8 (NIV) “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut…”
Why Does Jesus Begin This Way?
Jesus emphasizes His awareness of our actions to remind us that He sees all things nothing is hidden from Him.
As Hebrews 4:13 (NIV) says:
“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.”
Many people live as though God is unaware of their private lives. But Scripture is clear: He sees the public and the private, the sincere and the deceptive, the holy and the sinful.
To Pastors and Church Leaders
You are called to shepherd the flock of God with integrity (1 Peter 5:2–3), yet some are living double lives preaching salvation on Sunday but engaging in immorality in secret.
“Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 23:1 (NIV)
“Not many of you should become teachers… because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” James 3:1 (NIV)
If you are involved in sin sexual immorality, deceit, or manipulation repent immediately. God is not mocked (Galatians 6:7). Jesus knows your deeds.
To Believers Living a Double Life
You may say you’re saved, baptized, a worship leader, a church elder… but what happens in secret?
- You watch pornography.
- You engage in fornication.
- You live in habitual sin yet lift up holy hands in worship.
Jesus warned about hypocritical worship:
“‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.’” Matthew 15:8 (NIV)
“Be sure that your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23 (NIV)
You can fool your pastor, your friends, even your family but you cannot fool the Lord.
He knows your deeds.
To Spouses Living in Hidden Sin
Marriage is a covenant before God. Adultery, secrecy, and lies break not just trust but violate God’s law.
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” Hebrews 13:4 (NIV)
You may have hidden children, secret abortions, or affairs thinking no one knows. But the Lord sees.
“The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” Proverbs 15:3 (NIV)
To Hidden Idolaters Among the Saints
Yes even in the Church, there are some who secretly practice witchcraft, consult spirits, or use charms for “protection” or “prosperity.” These practices are abominations before God.
“Let no one be found among you… who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft…” Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NIV)
These individuals may shout “Amen!” and appear holy, but they are spiritually compromised.
Jesus knows their deeds.
Wake Up, Church!
Jesus’ warning to the church in Sardis is particularly relevant:
Revelation 3:1–3 (NIV)
“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.
Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die…
But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.”
This is not the time to play church. This is the time to repent and live in holiness.
Repent, While There Is Time
There is still grace available but grace is not a license to sin (Romans 6:1–2).
True repentance involves confession and turning away from sin.
“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 (NIV)
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…” Acts 3:19 (NIV)
Confess your sins to God. Talk to your spiritual leaders. Ask for prayer and accountability.
The Lord is willing to forgive, restore, and empower you to walk in righteousness.
The Lukewarm Will Be Rejected
Jesus despises spiritual complacency.
Revelation 3:15–16 (NIV)
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Now is the time to fully surrender to Jesus. Half-hearted faith will not survive the coming judgment.
Judgment Is Coming
God will judge the secrets of every heart.
“This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.” Romans 2:16 (NIV)
“He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart.” 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NIV)
Friend, this is the final hour. Jesus is coming soon not as a Savior, but as a Judge.
Prepare your heart. Repent. Live in the light.
May the Lord Bless You
“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” Hebrews 3:15 (NIV)
Now is the day of salvation. Don’t delay.
Shalom. Jesus is coming soon.
Proverbs 17:12 (NIV)“It is better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool acting in folly.”
This verse vividly illustrates the peril of encountering a fool someone who rejects God’s law and wisdom. In biblical theology, a fool is not merely someone lacking intelligence but specifically one who refuses to acknowledge God (Psalm 14:1). Such a person is spiritually blind, walking in sin, and is under the influence of Satan rather than Christ (John 8:44). Because of this, they forfeit God’s blessing.
Proverbs 10:23 (NIV) explains:
“Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to the discerning.”
This contrasts the fool’s frivolous attitude toward sin with the wisdom and joy that come from living according to God’s precepts.
The warning about a bear robbed of her cubs emphasizes the extreme danger and irrational fury such a bear displays. This is used metaphorically to show how much more dangerous a fool can be. The story in 2 Kings 2:23-25 (KJV) where two female bears maul 42 youths for mocking the prophet Elisha is a stark example of God’s judgment against disrespect and folly.
Historically, Herod the Great serves as a biblical example of a fool motivated by jealousy and evil (Matthew 2:16). His massacre of the infants in Bethlehem shows the destructive nature of a fool who opposes God’s plan. He also executed John the Baptist (Mark 6:17-29) and persecuted the apostles (Acts 12:1-3).
Jesus condemned the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy and misleading teaching, saying they made converts “twice as much children of hell” (Matthew 23:15, KJV). This shows the grave danger of false teaching which leads others away from salvation.
Today’s false prophets often emphasize God’s blessings wealth and success while neglecting repentance and holiness (2 Timothy 3:5). This prosperity gospel misleads many, resulting in eternal loss (Hebrews 10:26-27).
The Antichrist is prophesied in Scripture (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13) as the ultimate deceiver who will mislead the entire world into accepting his mark and worship, bringing vast numbers to eternal judgment.
The Bible states it is better to face a furious bear than such fools because a bear will only harm the body, but fools can destroy your soul by leading you away from salvation (Matthew 10:28).
Jesus warned about false prophets in
Matthew 7:15-23 (NIV):
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves… Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.”
This passage highlights the necessity of genuine faith evidenced by obedience, not merely verbal profession.
In light of these warnings, believers are urged to study and abide in God’s Word (John 8:31-32) for protection during perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Laziness or spiritual complacency opens the door to deception (Matthew 24:24).
May God grant us discernment and steadfastness.
Shalom.
I Have Decided to Gather the Nations and Pour Out My Wrath
The Lord declares in Zephaniah 3:8 (NIV):
“Therefore wait for me,”
“This is the day I will stand up to judge the nations.
I will gather together all the nations
and bring down my wrath on them all my fierce anger.
The whole world will be consumed by the fire of my jealous anger.”
This prophecy reveals God’s sovereign plan to judge the nations at the end of days. God’s “jealous anger” reflects His righteous holiness and zeal for His covenant people Israel. The “fire” is a biblical symbol of God’s purifying and consuming judgment (see also Hebrews 12:29).
The Times Ahead: War, Not Peace
The future holds no peace for the world but conflict major battles that fulfill God’s prophetic word. The Bible predicts two major wars fought “against God,” which means against Israel, because God is intimately involved with His covenant people. Israel is unique; God chose this nation to bless the world (Genesis 12:3) and also to serve as the instrument of His righteous judgment (Isaiah 49:6).
The First War: The War of Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 38–39)
This war will occur shortly before or after the rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Russia, called “Gog” in Ezekiel, will lead an alliance of nations attacking Israel. God will decisively defeat this coalition supernaturally (Ezekiel 38:22), demonstrating His protection over Israel. This event signals the impending final conflict but is not the ultimate battle.
The Final War: The Battle of Armageddon
This final and climactic battle will involve every nation against Israel (Revelation 16:16). The nations unite with one purpose to wipe Israel off the map (Zechariah 12:3). This conflict arises because God will use Israel to provoke the nations (Romans 11:11-12) either through prophetic voices or through earthly rulers.
Zechariah 12:2–3 (ESV) warns:
“Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling to all the peoples around, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem.
And on that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves.”
The Coming of Christ and the Defeat of the Nations
When Israel is under siege and overwhelmed, the Messiah will return visibly and powerfully to save His people.
Revelation 19:11-16 (NIV) describes Jesus’ victorious return:
“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war.
His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns.
He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God.
The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen.
Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations.
He will rule them with an iron scepter. He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.
On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
The Lord Stands on the Mount of Olives (Zechariah 14)
Zechariah 14:2-4 (ESV) says:
“I will gather all the nations against Jerusalem to battle.
The city will be captured, the houses plundered, and the women raped. Half of the city will go into exile, but the rest of the people will not be taken from the city.
Then the Lord will go out and fight against those nations…
On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem. The mountain will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley.”
This marks the end of human opposition to God’s plan. Christ’s reign will be established, fulfilling God’s promises of restoration (Isaiah 2:2-4).
The Mourning and Repentance of Israel
Following these events, Israel will recognize their Messiah, leading to great repentance and mourning.
Zechariah 12:9-14 (NIV):
“On that day I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.
I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication.
They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and mourn for him as one mourns for an only child…
There will be great mourning in Jerusalem… each family will mourn separately.”
This fulfills the prophecy of Israel’s national repentance before the millennial kingdom (Romans 11:25-27).
A Call to Prepare
The world is increasingly hostile toward Israel, which aligns with biblical prophecy that this hostility will intensify (Psalm 83; Isaiah 17). God’s focus is returning to Israel, and the time of grace for the nations is drawing to a close.
If you have been waiting to respond to the gospel, understand that the window is closing. The rapture is imminent (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). Those left behind will face the great tribulation described in Revelation.
Repent today. Commit your life to Jesus, be baptized in the true biblical baptism (Acts 2:38), and receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4). This world is not your home; surrender fully to the Lord now.
Maranatha Come, Lord Jesus!
Who Is a Fool According to the Bible?
In secular terms, a fool is often considered someone who lacks intelligence, logical reasoning, or problem solving ability. Such a person may struggle academically, socially, or mentally. However, God’s standard for wisdom and foolishness is not measured by IQ or worldly success, but by how a person relates to Him, His Word, and others.
According to the Bible, foolishness is a moral and spiritual failure, not just an intellectual one. Scripture defines a fool not by a lack of knowledge, but by a lack of reverence for God, disobedience to His commands, and disregard for others.
The following are eight biblical characteristics of a fool. If any of these describe you, it’s a call to repentance and transformation not just for moral improvement, but for alignment with God’s heart and truth.
1. A Fool Does Not Seek God
Psalm 14:2–3 (ESV):
“The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one.”
The first sign of spiritual foolishness is a life lived without pursuit of God. To live independently of the One who created and sustains you is to live in denial of the most basic truth of existence. The apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 3:10–12, affirming that without grace, no one seeks God naturally.
This reflects the doctrine of total depravity that humanity, left to itself, does not seek God. Only by the Spirit’s drawing (John 6:44) can a person begin to pursue God rightly.
2. A Fool Despises Others
Proverbs 11:12 (NIV):
“Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.”
A fool sees others as inferior and unworthy of kindness or honor. This is rooted in pride, a sin God resists (James 4:6), while He gives grace to the humble. Jesus modeled radical humility and called His followers to do the same (Philippians 2:3–5).
Biblically, the wise understand that all humans bear the image of God (Imago Dei) (Genesis 1:27). To despise others is to despise God’s creation.
3. A Fool Oppresses the Weak
Proverbs 28:16 (ESV):
“A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.”
Oppression of others whether through exploitation, manipulation, or abuse reveals a corrupt heart. God is a defender of the poor and weak (Psalm 140:12; Isaiah 1:17), and He strongly condemns injustice.
God’s justice is an essential attribute (Psalm 89:14). To ignore justice is to defy the very nature of God.
4. A Fool Is Sexually Immoral
Proverbs 6:32 (NIV):
“But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.”
Sexual sin distorts God’s design for marriage, body, and holiness. The New Testament repeatedly warns against it (1 Corinthians 6:18–20, Hebrews 13:4). Sexual immorality also grieves the Holy Spirit and impairs spiritual sensitivity.
Sexual sin dishonors the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) and leads to self destruction physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
5. A Fool Ignores Eternal Judgment
Proverbs 15:24 (NIV):
“The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.”
The wise consider the end of life and the reality of judgment. Ecclesiastes 7:2 reminds us that reflecting on death brings wisdom. A fool, however, lives as though this life is all there is, neglecting the urgency of salvation (Hebrews 9:27).
Jesus taught more about hell than heaven, not to scare but to warn. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).
6. A Fool Rejects Godly Instruction
Proverbs 10:8 (NIV):
“The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.”
A wise person welcomes correction and biblical teaching, knowing it leads to growth (Proverbs 9:8–9). A fool resists instruction and follows their own opinion, even when clearly against Scripture.
Spiritually, this reflects the heart of rebellion. Hebrews 12:11 affirms that God disciplines those He loves. Refusing instruction cuts you off from that love.
7. A Fool Forgets God’s Word
Proverbs 10:14 (NIV):
“The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.”
A wise person treasures and meditates on God’s Word (Psalm 119:11). Forgetting God’s law or failing to apply it leads to moral collapse. Jesus compared such people to builders who built houses on sand (Matthew 7:26–27).
Sound doctrine and biblical memory are essential for perseverance in faith (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Psalm 1:1–3). A forgetful believer is a vulnerable believer.
8. A Fool Is Lazy and Neglects Responsibility
Proverbs 24:30–31 (NIV):
“I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins.”
Laziness is a form of neglect not just of physical work, but often of spiritual discipline. Paul commands believers to work diligently as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). A lazy person wastes time, gifts, and opportunities.
Laziness shows a lack of stewardship. God created humanity to work (Genesis 2:15), and the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) warns against wasting what God has entrusted.
Walking in True Wisdom
If any of these traits describe you, don’t lose heart God offers wisdom generously to those who ask (James 1:5). Wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), continues through the Word of God, and is matured by the Spirit of God.
God doesn’t measure wisdom by status, success, or intellect. He evaluates it by your reverence, obedience, humility, and love.
Proverbs 3:3–4 (NIV):
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
Let us seek to be wise in God’s eyes not just for our own sake, but for His glory and for the good of others.
May the Lord help us.
THE SPIRITS OF DEMONS: A BIBLICAL OVERVIEW
Praise be to the name of our Savior Jesus Christ forever!
Let us reflect deeply on the Scriptures today as we explore the three principal demonic offices active in the world according to biblical prophecy.
Scriptural Foundation (Using the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted):
Revelation 16:13-14 (NIV)
“Then I saw three impure spirits that looked like frogs; they came out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet. They are spirits of demons performing signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty.”
This passage identifies three distinct but connected demonic agents:
- The Dragon representing Satan (cf. Revelation 12:9)
- The Beast symbolizing worldly political power empowered by Satan (Revelation 13)
- The False Prophet the spiritual deceiver promoting false worship (Revelation 13:11-18)
Together, these three form the core of Satan’s kingdom on Earth, with Satan as the head (cf. Ephesians 6:12).
1. The Dragon: Satan’s Primary Enemy of Christ and the Church
The Dragon’s main work is described as trying to devour the “child” (Christ) and by extension, all who are born again in Christ. This reveals Satan’s ongoing opposition to God’s redemptive plan.
Revelation 12:3-5 (NIV)
“Then another sign appeared in heaven: an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on its heads. Its tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that it might devour her child the moment he was born. She gave birth to a son, a male child, who ‘will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.’ And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne.”
The “woman” here symbolizes God’s people (Israel and the Church, cf. Revelation 12:17), and the “male child” is Christ. Satan’s hatred of Christ manifests in his attempt to kill Him (Herod’s massacre, Matthew 2:16) and persecute the church (1 Peter 5:8).
Today, the Dragon still wages spiritual warfare against believers, opposing holiness and the expansion of Christ’s kingdom.
Revelation 12:17 (NIV)
“Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”
This war manifests in spiritual opposition, persecution, and temptation against the faithful.
2. The Beast: The Political Power of the Antichrist
The Beast represents a satanically empowered political system that opposes God’s kingdom and persecutes the saints. Historically, it parallels great empires hostile to God (Babylon, Medo Persia, Greece, Rome).
Daniel 7:7-8 (NIV) and Revelation 13:1-2 (NIV) provide background on this beast with “ten horns” symbolizing kingdoms and rulers.
Revelation 13:8 (NIV)
“All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.”
This beast will force global worship and economic control, including the infamous mark of the Beast (666). Those who resist face severe persecution (Revelation 13:15-17).
The system is closely tied to the city of Rome (symbolized in prophecy as the “Great City,” Revelation 17:9-18), and its power will rise again in the end times with unprecedented global influence.
3. The False Prophet: The Spiritual Deceiver
The False Prophet is the religious counterpart to the Beast’s political power. His role is to deceive the world with signs and wonders, directing worship toward the Beast and his image.
1 John 2:18 (NIV)
“Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.”2 Thessalonians 2:6-9 (NIV)
“And now you know what is holding him back, so that he may be revealed at the proper time. For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming. The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan, displaying all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders.”
Revelation 13:12-18 (NIV) describes the False Prophet’s ability to perform miraculous signs, enforce worship of the Beast, and impose the mark on humanity.
Final Convergence and the Battle of Armageddon
At the end of the age, these three demonic offices will unite to oppose God’s people and gather all nations for the final battle Armageddon (Revelation 16:16). Jesus Christ will return to defeat them and establish His millennial kingdom (Revelation 19:11-21; 20:1-6).
Practical Implications for Believers Today
- Spiritual warfare is real. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil.
- Holiness attracts opposition. The Dragon will oppose all who follow Christ earnestly (Revelation 12:17).
- End time warnings call for repentance. The Beast’s system and the False Prophet’s deception are already active in various forms.
- Faithful endurance is vital. The saints are called to persevere and remain faithful until Christ’s return (Revelation 14:12).
The rapture could happen at any moment (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). The signs are fulfilled, and the systems of the Beast and False Prophet are rising.
Repent, turn to Jesus sincerely, and follow Him faithfully. Take up your cross and live in holiness, for the trumpet could sound at any moment.
May the Lord richly bless you.
THE WITCHCRAFT OF FALSE PROPHETS
There are two types of witches mentioned in spiritual teachings:
1. Ordinary witches
These are the well known practitioners of witchcraft who engage in physical acts of sorcery casting spells, flying on broomsticks or other mystical objects, invoking spirits, and causing harm primarily to a person’s physical body or circumstances. Their influence is generally limited to physical afflictions or misfortunes.
2. False Prophets
This second group is far more dangerous and spiritually destructive. Unlike ordinary witches who affect the body, false prophets work spiritually to deceive and lead people away from faith in Jesus Christ, ultimately causing them to forfeit eternal life.
This aligns with the Apostle Paul’s warning in the Book of Galatians, where he describes those who have been “bewitched” away from the gospel of grace.
Galatians 3:1-3 (NIV):
“You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?”
Here, Paul condemns false teachers who tried to bring believers back under the law after they had embraced the freedom of faith in Christ. The spiritual “witchcraft” is the deceit that leads believers away from grace back into bondage to legalism or other false teachings.
Jesus also warns us explicitly about false prophets:
Matthew 7:15 (KJV):
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
False prophets appear harmless or even holy but inwardly are destructive. They are like wolves disguised as sheep, aiming to devour the flock.
The Nature of False Prophets as Spiritual Witches
False prophets can appear very spiritual, often using Christian terminology and practices anointing, preaching, casting out demons but their purpose is to lead people away from the true gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. They do not envy your earthly success or blessings; rather, their chief aim is to keep your soul from inheriting eternal life.
This is the core of their “witchcraft”: spiritual deception that kills the soul.
Biblical Example: Elymas the Sorcerer
In Acts 13:6-8 (NIV), we see a prime example of a false prophet described as a sorcerer and false prophet:
“When they arrived at Paphos on the island, they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar Jesus. He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. The proconsul called for Barnabas and Saul and wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.”
Elymas represents those who use spiritual deception to block people from coming to faith, working against God’s kingdom from within religious contexts.
The Deceptive Comfort of False Teachers
Beware of any preacher or teacher who encourages complacency in sin by telling you that you are loved and accepted by God while you continue living in ongoing unrepentant sin.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (NIV) warns:
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
False teachers often distort God’s grace to excuse sin rather than calling for genuine repentance and transformation by the Holy Spirit.
The Works of the Flesh
The Apostle Paul in Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV) lists the “works of the flesh,” which are evident sinful behaviors that prevent inheriting God’s kingdom:
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
False prophets either live in these sins themselves or tolerate them in their followers, denying the call to holiness.
Call to Discernment and Faithfulness
We are called to study God’s Word deeply, test every spirit (1 John 4:1), and remain faithful to the gospel of grace. False prophets exploit ignorance and spiritual immaturity to mislead many.
Jesus Christ is coming again, and these are the last days. We must be vigilant, rooted in the truth of Scripture, and live holy lives in obedience to God.
Maranatha!
