Title Rehema Jonathan

Key Passage:

Ephesians 3:14-15 (NIV)
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.”

1. God’s Universal Fatherhood

Paul’s words emphasize the all-encompassing fatherhood of God. When he says “every family in heaven and on earth derives its name from Him,” he is referring to God’s role as Creator and Sustainer of all beings—angels in heaven and humans on earth.

This is not about fatherhood by adoption (which is the case for believers through Christ, see Romans 8:15), but rather a foundational fatherhood rooted in creation itself. All creatures owe their existence to Him. This mirrors the Old Testament understanding of God as the Father of all humanity (Malachi 2:10), but Paul expands it even more.

Colossians 1:16 (ESV)
“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.”

This verse reinforces the cosmic scope of God’s authority and ownership—everything exists through Him and for His purposes. His “fatherhood” is not sentimental but authoritative and providential.

2. God’s Role as Sustainer and Provider

A true father provides, sustains, and protects. Jesus highlighted this in His teaching about God’s care for creation:

Matthew 6:26-30 (NIV)
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? … If that is how God clothes the grass of the field… will He not much more clothe you—you of little faith?”

Jesus points out that God’s providence extends even to the smallest parts of creation—birds and flowers—showing how much more He cares for us as His children.

3. God Deserves Worship as Father of All

Paul’s act of kneeling (Ephesians 3:14) reflects humility and worship in response to the majesty of God’s fatherhood. The recognition that God is Father in both heaven and earth leads to worship, submission, and trust.

Philippians 2:9-10 (NIV)
“Therefore God exalted Him [Jesus] to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.”

This universal worship includes all realms—spiritual and physical, heaven and earth—again echoing the idea that God’s rule and fatherhood are absolute.

4. God as Father to Believers in a Special Way

Although God is the Creator and Father of all, He is the Abba Father to believers in a special, redemptive sense. Through Christ, we are adopted into God’s family.

Romans 8:15 (NIV)
“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.'”

This deeper father-child relationship is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ. While all creation belongs to God, only believers are spiritually adopted into His eternal family.

5. Living as Children of the Father

Being God’s children means trusting Him for our daily needs, but also living according to His ways.

Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

This is a call to trust in divine provision and to live in alignment with His righteousness. Our Father knows our needs and promises to supply them, but we must prioritize His kingdom.

Conclusion:
God is not only the Creator of all but the sustaining Father over all creation—both in heaven and on earth. He deserves our worship because of His sovereign authority, loving provision, and redemptive work through Christ. While all families and beings find their origin in Him, only through faith in Jesus do we become His children in the fullest, most intimate sense. Let us therefore kneel before Him, seek His kingdom, and live as true sons and daughters of the Most High.

Be blessed.

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As believers, it’s essential to approach the Word of God with humility, reverence, and above all, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Scripture, when interpreted without the Spirit’s illumination, can easily be twisted to support anythingfrom immorality to false doctrines.

As 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV) says:
“He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Without the Holy Spirit, we may even wrongly justify sin. Some have used the Bible to defend alcohol abuse, same-sex marriage, or polygamy. That’s why Paul reminds us that interpretation must be Spirit-led.

What Really Happened to Queen Esther?

Some argue that since Queen Esther underwent beauty treatments before meeting King Ahasuerus, modern Christian women are free to adorn themselves however they wish through makeup, artificial hair, skin bleaching, etc. But is that what the Bible actually teaches?

Esther 2:12 (NKJV) says:
“Each young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after she had completed twelve months’ preparation, according to the regulations for the women, for thus were the days of their preparation apportioned: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes and preparations for beautifying women.”

This verse shows that the process Esther underwent was not cosmetic in the modern sense. It was a purification and healing regimen. The oils and spices mentioned like oil of myrrh had antiseptic and restorative properties. These treatments were meant to cleanse the body, heal the skin, and refresh the natural beauty that may have been affected by harsh living conditions. It was more of a physical and ceremonial sanctification rather than painting the body with artificial enhancements.

What Does the New Testament Say About Adornment?

The New Testament provides clear instruction on how godly women should present themselves:

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.”

Here, Paul emphasizes inner beauty and godliness over outward appearance. He does not say it is inherently sinful to wear jewelry or braid hair, but he warns against making physical appearance a priority over spiritual character.

1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV) echoes this:
“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.”

The biblical principle is that true beauty is inward. The emphasis is on purity, humility, modesty, and good works not on physical appeal through worldly means.

The Body Is God’s Temple

The Bible also reminds us that our physical bodies are sacred. They are temples of the Holy Spirit:

1 Corinthians 3:17 (NKJV)
“If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”

When believers excessively modify or dishonor their bodies in ways that promote vanity or mimic worldly lusts, they dishonor God’s temple. This includes practices like excessive makeup, artificial beauty enhancements, wearing revealing or tight clothing, and anything done with the motive of seduction or vanity.

So, Is It a Sin for a Christian Woman to Wear Makeup or Adorn Herself?

The Bible doesn’t outright forbid makeup or adornment but it warns against worldly motivations behind it. If the purpose is pride, seduction, comparison, or seeking human approval, then the act becomes spiritually dangerous.

As Paul said:

Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Our call is to reflect Christ, not the culture. Christian women are encouraged to pursue holiness in both heart and appearance, honoring God in every area of life.

Final Thoughts

Esther was chosen not because of cosmetics, but because of her grace, purity, and the favor of God (Esther 2:15-17). Her preparation was inward and ceremonial, not focused on artificial outward beauty.

Dear sister in Christ, if you find yourself relying on makeup, wigs, revealing clothes, or skin bleaching to feel beautiful or accepted, let the Holy Spirit minister to your heart. God sees beauty in your humility, modesty, and devotion not in your physical enhancements.

Let us strive to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, which are His (1 Corinthians 6:20).

Maranatha! Jesus is coming soon. Be found ready, holy, and set apart.

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If you consider yourself a servant of God, it’s essential to ask: Are you truly doing the will of the Lord Jesus?

Why? Because pleasing God depends on understanding and living out His will. Jesus said clearly:

John 6:37-40 (ESV):
“All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.
For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.
And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day.
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

Here, Jesus teaches the doctrine of eternal security or perseverance of the saints those truly given to Him by the Father will be kept safe and raised on the last day. It reflects God’s sovereign grace in salvation (see also Romans 8:29-30).

In practice, this means two key missions for every believer and servant of God:

1. Lead others to Jesus so they can believe and receive eternal life.
2. Care for believers so that none of them fall away or lose their salvation.

Jesus modeled this mission, and the Father confirmed His work was pleasing (see John 5:30).

Bearing Lasting Fruit

John 15:16 (NIV):
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit fruit that will last and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Fruit that “remains” means genuine spiritual growth and lasting transformation, not temporary or shallow faith. This ties into sanctification the ongoing work of God to make believers holy (Philippians 1:6).

Jesus also instructed Peter:

John 21:15-17 (ESV):
“Feed my lambs… Tend my sheep…”

This demonstrates pastoral care, requiring both nourishing (teaching, encouraging) and guarding (protecting believers from falling away).

Perseverance and Growth in the Church

Acts 15:36-41 shows Paul revisiting churches he planted to strengthen believers, proving that evangelism must be paired with discipleship.

Ask yourself:

• Are you helping others come to faith?
• Are you helping believers grow and stay faithful?

Jesus said:

John 4:34-35 (NIV):
“My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

Don’t Be a Christian Who Just Sits in the Warehouse

In the parable of the wheat and the chaff, Jesus distinguishes believers (wheat) from unbelievers (chaff):

Matthew 3:12 (NIV):
“His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

The barn represents God’s protection and security.

However, wheat also needs to be planted back in the field to grow and produce a harvest:

John 12:24-26 (ESV):
“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”

This is a call to self denial (Luke 9:23) and counting the cost of discipleship.

Many believers stay “in the barn”  saved but inactive. Jesus calls us to endure trials and temptations to bear fruit (Luke 8:11-15).

Practical Application

• Salvation is not just a moment; it’s a lifelong process of drawing others to Jesus and helping them remain faithful.
• Faithfulness involves giving our resources, time, and gifts to God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• Don’t be a passive believer; be a fruitful servant who participates actively in the kingdom.

May God strengthen us to fully live His will, bear lasting fruit, and lead others to eternal life!

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(Zechariah 4:6, ESV)
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.’”

Shalom.

Life often presents challenges that human strength or skill alone cannot overcome. You might exhaust all your abilities or rely on someone else’s power, yet still face failure or frustration. At such times, Scripture teaches us that the true source of victory is not physical might or human effort, but the Spirit of God working within us.

Theological Insight: The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), fully divine and personal, sent to empower believers to live godly lives and accomplish God’s purposes. Jesus promised His disciples that the Spirit would be their Helper and Guide (John 14:16–17, ESV). Without the Spirit, spiritual work is impossible (Romans 8:9), but with Him, we are empowered to overcome obstacles, bear fruit, and live in obedience to God’s will.

Elijah’s Encounter with God: The Quiet Voice of the Spirit

(1 Kings 19:11-13, NIV)

“The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a powerful wind tore through the mountains…but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind came an earthquake…but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire…but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.”

This passage shows that God’s presence and guidance are not always found in dramatic signs or outward displays of power. Instead, God often speaks through the gentle, peaceful voice of the Holy Spirit inviting us to listen closely and respond in faith.

Zerubbabel and the Mountain of Opposition

(Zechariah 4:6-7, NIV)

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘Who are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’”

Here, the “mountain” symbolizes the overwhelming challenges and opposition Zerubbabel faced in rebuilding the temple after the exile. The message is clear: human effort alone will not remove the obstacle; it is only through God’s Spirit that mountains can be made level.

How to Receive the Holy Spirit

(Acts 2:37-39, ESV)

“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’”

The theological foundation here is repentance turning from sin and trusting in Jesus’ atoning work and baptism as a public declaration of faith. Receiving the Holy Spirit is God’s promise to all who come to Him in faith.

Summary

• Your strength and human ability have limits; the Holy Spirit empowers you beyond your natural capacity.
• God’s presence often comes in quiet, peaceful ways rather than loud or forceful signs.
• Challenges, like the “mountain” before Zerubbabel, can be overcome only by the Spirit.
• Repentance and baptism open the door for the Spirit to dwell within, enabling you to live victoriously.

Invitation

If you want to experience this power in your life, start with a sincere heart of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Seek baptism and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your daily walk.

Maranatha!

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Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Have you ever asked yourself why Jesus is referred to as the “Second Adam” or the “Last Adam”? This isn’t just a poetic title it reflects a deep theological truth that helps us understand who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish.

1. The First Adam The Head of the Human Race

According to Genesis 1:26–28 (NIV), Adam was the first human created by God. He was given authority to rule over all living creatures and to fill and subdue the earth:

“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over… all the creatures.’”

(Genesis 1:26, NIV)

This divine mandate was not only for Adam but for all his descendants. In theological terms, Adam acted as the federal head of the human race meaning his actions affected all of humanity.

However, Adam sinned (Genesis 3), and that sin broke humanity’s relationship with God. By disobeying God, Adam lost his authority and passed on sin, death, and separation from God to all his descendants.

“Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.”
(Romans 5:12, ESV)

Adam’s fall introduced not just personal sin, but original sin a condition we all inherit from birth.

2. God’s Redemptive Plan  The Need for a Second Adam

God, in His grace, did not leave us in that fallen condition. He had a plan to redeem humanity not by creating a new species or another physical lineage, but by sending Jesus Christ, His Son, to become a Second Adam who would represent a new, redeemed humanity.

“So it is written: ‘The first man Adam became a living being’; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit.”
(1 Corinthians 15:45, NIV)

The first Adam gave us physical life.
The Second Adam (Jesus) gives us spiritual life.

Jesus came not to father children biologically, but to give spiritual birth to those who would believe in Him.

3. The Second Birth  Entering the Family of Christ

Jesus made it clear that to be part of God’s kingdom, we must be born again:

“Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again… born of water and the Spirit.”
(John 3:3,5, NIV)

This second birth is not from Adam, but from Christ through the Holy Spirit. The first birth, from Adam, gives us a mortal, sinful nature. The second birth, through Jesus, makes us spiritually alive and restores our relationship with God.

“That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
(John 3:6, ESV)

4. Jesus’ Authority as the Second Adam

As the Second Adam, Jesus did not only come to redeem us He was also given complete authority over all creation:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
(Matthew 28:18, NIV)

“All things have been committed to me by my Father.”
(Matthew 11:27, NIV)

Unlike Adam, who lost his authority through sin, Jesus conquered sin and death. His authority is not limited to earth, but extends to heaven as well. And all who are born into His spiritual family share in that authority:

“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…”
(Romans 8:16–17, NIV)

5. Two Adams, Two Outcomes

The contrast between the two Adams is central to Christian theology:

• Adam’s disobedience brought sin, death, and condemnation.
• Jesus’ obedience brought righteousness, life, and justification.

“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned… how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace… reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!”
(Romans 5:17, NIV)

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
(1 Corinthians 15:22, NIV)

6. The New Birth and the Imperishable Seed

When we are born again, we are not just better people we become new creations, born from an imperishable seed: the Word of God.

“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”
(1 Peter 1:23, NIV)

The old seed Adam’s lineage is corrupted by sin and leads to death. But Jesus gives us a new birth into a kingdom that cannot perish.

7. How to Join the Lineage of Christ – The Second Adam

To become part of Jesus’ redeemed family, the Bible gives a clear path:

“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
(Acts 2:38, NIV)

Step by step:

• Repent from your sins.
• Be baptized in water, in Jesus’ name.
• Receive the Holy Spirit  the Spirit of Christ that gives new life.

Conclusion: Are You Born Again?

The first Adam failed. But Jesus, the Second Adam, succeeded. He came not to destroy but to redeem to give us a new identity, a new birth, and eternal life.

There’s no hope in the old nature. But in Christ, there is full restoration, authority, and inheritance.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
(Ephesians 4:30, NIV)

On that day of redemption when Jesus returns we will receive the glorified bodies He promised, free from pain, death, and decay.

Have you been born again?
If not, now is the time. Jesus, the Second Adam, calls you into a new family and a new future.

May the Lord Jesus Christ the Victor over sin and death bless you richly and lead you into His eternal kingdom.

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Many people today associate worship with singing slow, emotional songs during church services. While music is a powerful expression of worship, true worship is far more than just singing  it is a lifestyle of honoring, revering, and serving God with our whole being.

The Greek word for worship used in the New Testament is “proskuneō”, which means “to bow down, to show reverence, to pay homage.” Worship involves submission of the heart, soul, and actions to God.

1. Jesus’ Teaching on True Worship

In John 4:23–24 (ESV), Jesus says:

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Here, Jesus was speaking to the Samaritan woman, correcting the idea that worship was confined to a place (Jerusalem or Mount Gerizim). He introduced a new era of worship — not based on location or rituals, but on inward reality.

2. Worshiping in Spirit

To worship in spirit means our worship is not just outward or ritualistic, but comes from our innermost being  our spirit  and is made possible through the Holy Spirit.

Paul explains in Romans 8:9 (NIV):

“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”

True worship is only possible for those who are born again and have the Holy Spirit living in them. The Holy Spirit helps us to:

• Understand God’s will (1 Corinthians 2:10–12),

• Pray and worship correctly (Romans 8:26),

• And walk in holiness (Galatians 5:16–25).

As Jesus said in John 16:13 (NLT):

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth…”

3. Worshiping in Truth

To worship in truth means aligning our worship with the truth of God’s Word. It’s not enough to be sincere  our sincerity must be rooted in what God has revealed through Scripture.

In John 17:17 (ESV), Jesus prayed:

“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Therefore, any form of worship that contradicts Scripture  whether in lifestyle, doctrine, or practice  is false worship. Worship in truth means we:

• Acknowledge God as He is revealed in Scripture,

• Obey His commands,

• And submit to His Word as final authority.

4. The Need for Both Spirit and Truth

Spirit without truth leads to emotionalism or spiritual error. Truth without spirit leads to dead formalism. But when both are present, worship becomes a powerful, living offering to God.

Paul summarizes this beautifully in Romans 12:1 (NIV):

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God  this is your true and proper worship.”

5. A Call to Self-Examination

Ask yourself: Am I truly worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth?
You cannot know the truth without the Holy Spirit. And you cannot be led by the Spirit unless you’ve truly received Christ as Lord and Savior.

As Acts 2:38 (NKJV) says:

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Receiving the Holy Spirit is not just about speaking in tongues. It’s about transformation  a changed heart, a renewed mind, and a life that bears the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).

Final Thought:
These are the last days. Christ is knocking on the hearts of many (Revelation 3:20). The trumpet could sound at any moment, and only those who are in Christ  filled with His Spirit and walking in His truth  will be ready.

Will you be among the true worshipers?

May the Lord bless you and guide you into deeper, Spirit-filled, truth-rooted worship.

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In the Bible, the ephod appears in two primary contexts first, as a sacred garment used in worship, and second, as an object that later became misused in idolatry. Let’s explore both, and understand why King David needed it when seeking God.

1. The Ephod as a Sacred Garment

The ephod was originally a divinely ordained garment, worn by the High Priest and Levitical priests in the Old Testament. It was designed specifically for ministry in the presence of God.

Exodus 28:4 (ESV):

“These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.”

The ephod was made of fine linen interwoven with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarns (Exodus 28:6–14). It included shoulder pieces and a waistband, and later, the breastplate of judgment which contained the Urim and Thummim for divine consultation was attached to it (Exodus 28:30).

The ephod was thus not only a ceremonial garment, but a medium through which the High Priest could inquire of God especially using the Urim and Thummim (see Leviticus 8:7–8; Numbers 27:21).

2. Non-Priestly Use: Samuel and David

Even though the ephod was mainly for priests, others wore simpler versions—like linen ephods as expressions of devotion.

1 Samuel 2:18 (NIV):

“But Samuel was ministering before the Lord a boy wearing a linen ephod.”

Later, David though not a priest wore a linen ephod when worshiping God during the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant.

2 Samuel 6:14 (ESV):

“And David danced before the Lord with all his might. And David was wearing a linen ephod.”

David’s wearing of the ephod here shows his desire to lead in worship with sincerity and humility before the Lord, breaking cultural and royal protocol to express full devotion.

3. David Using the Ephod to Seek God’s Guidance

David also used the ephod to seek divine direction during times of crisis. Since the ephod was connected with the priest’s ability to consult God (especially via Urim and Thummim), it became a tool David valued during his life on the run.

1 Samuel 23:9–12 (NIV):

“When David learned that Saul was plotting against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring the ephod.’ David said, ‘Lord, God of Israel… will Saul come down?’ … The Lord said, ‘He will.’”

Again, in 1 Samuel 30:7–8, when the Amalekites raided Ziklag:

“Then David said to Abiathar the priest, ‘Bring me the ephod.’ Abiathar brought it, and David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?’ ‘Pursue them,’ he answered.”

The ephod here symbolizes a desire to seek God’s will, not through guesswork, but through divine revelation mediated through the priest.

4. The Ephod Misused: A Cautionary Tale

Despite its sacred origin, the ephod was later corrupted. After victory over the Midianites, Gideon made an ephod from gold, which tragically became an object of idol worship.

Judges 8:27 (NIV):

“Gideon made the gold into an ephod, which he placed in Ophrah, his town. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family.”

This misuse reveals how even God-ordained objects can become idols when they replace or distract from true worship.

5. What About Today? Do We Need an Ephod to Approach God?

No. Today, we no longer need physical garments like the ephod to access God. The ephod was a shadow of something greater fulfilled completely in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.

Hebrews 4:14–16 (NIV):

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess… Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence.”

Through Christ, we no longer need to rely on garments, priests, or sacred objects to seek God’s will. Christ is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), and through His righteousness, we are clothed spiritually.

6. Putting on Christ: The True Ephod for Believers

Just as priests had to wear holy garments to serve, we too must be spiritually clothed in Christ to approach God.

Romans 13:14 (ESV):

“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”

To “wear Christ” means to live a life transformed by repentance, faith, and holiness. Jesus Himself gave a warning:

Revelation 16:15 (NIV):

“Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”

Conclusion

The ephod in the Old Testament was a powerful symbol of drawing near to God. David sought it not for fashion, but for access to divine counsel. Today, through Jesus Christ, we have greater access to God than David or any High Priest ever had.

You don’t need an ephod you need Jesus. Repent, believe in Him, be baptized, and live a holy life. He is the true and better ephod, making us holy and acceptable before the Father.

May the Lord bless you and draw you closer to Himself.

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Shalom, beloved,

There was a powerful moment recorded in Scripture when the apostles approached Jesus with a heartfelt spiritual request:

Luke 17:5 (NIV): “The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’”

Although their request seemed simple, Jesus did not respond by laying hands or granting it instantly. He instead pointed to a process that involved spiritual diligence. True faith is not merely imparted it is cultivated.

In Matthew 17:21 (KJV), when the disciples struggled to cast out a demon, Jesus said:

“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”

And Romans 10:17 (NIV) reveals the principle:

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”

This teaches us that faith is built progressively through hearing, meditating on, and applying God’s Word. But notice faith doesn’t grow without intentional effort. You must seek it diligently. It cannot simply be passed down or transferred through prayer or laying on of hands.

The Central Role of Love in Christian Maturity

While faith is essential and hope anchors us in God’s promises, the greatest of all is love.

1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV):
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Why is love the greatest? Because God Himself is love:

1 John 4:8 (NIV):
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

A spiritually mature Christian is not simply identified by gifts, miracles, or deep doctrine, but by the measure of their love a love that reflects Christ.

Yet many today mistake Christian love for mere kindness, charity, or emotional warmth. These are expressions of love, but agapē, the divine love of God, goes far deeper.

What Is True, Godly Love?

In 1 Corinthians 13:1–8 (NIV), Paul defines love not as an emotion but a lifestyle and character that mirrors God’s heart:

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong… If I have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing…”

Here are the attributes of this love:

• Patient and kind (v. 4): It endures mistreatment without retaliation.

• Not envious or boastful: It rejoices in others’ success.

• Not proud or rude: It considers others above self.

• Not self-seeking or easily angered: It surrenders ego and offense.

• Keeps no record of wrongs (v. 5): It forgives completely.

• Does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth.

• Always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres (v. 7).

• Love never fails (v. 8).

Ask yourself: Are these characteristics visible in your walk with God and others? If we struggle to forgive, hold grudges, or act in pride, then God’s love has not yet been perfected in us.

Why Love Can’t Be Transferred It Must Be Cultivated

Just like faith, love requires discipline and spiritual formation. It cannot be received passively.

1 Peter 4:8 (ESV):
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”

“Earnestly” or “fervently” here (Greek: ektenēs) suggests a strenuous, ongoing effort. We must work at love until it becomes our nature.

This love grows when we:

• Forgive quickly.

• Choose not to gossip or judge.

• Serve others sacrificially.

• Let go of resentment and offense.

• Focus on people’s virtues, not their faults.

It may be difficult at first but with time, the Holy Spirit forms this divine character in us.

Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV):
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

Notice that love is the first fruit mentioned. Without it, the rest lose their meaning.

Love Grows Through Discipleship and Character Development

This divine progression is described beautifully in:

2 Peter 1:5–7 (NIV):
“Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”

Each trait builds upon the previous. Love is the climax of spiritual maturity.

2 Peter 1:8 (NIV):
“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Final Exhortation: Make Love Your Highest Goal

Let us commit ourselves, starting today, to pursuing love not just in words, but in action and truth.

Romans 12:10–11 (NIV):
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

1 Peter 1:22 (NIV):
“Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.”

Love must be developed daily. Start with small acts, then grow. Let it become your habit, then your character. And in time, it will reflect the heart of God in all you do.

Because:

1 Corinthians 13:2 (NIV):
“…if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.”

And:

1 John 4:8 (NIV):
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

Let us love with all diligence, that we may truly know Him.

Shalom

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A raised offering is a special type of offering that holds greater honor than other offerings. It is a way to express deep gratitude, reverence, and dedication to God for His blessings. A raised offering is more significant because it involves sacrifice, and it is given with a higher level of intentionality and purpose.

For example, a person might give a regular offering, which is common and done out of obedience, but a raised offering is one that stands out in honor of God’s greatness, reflecting something more costly and valuable. This offering is specifically set aside for God, often with a particular request or as an expression of thanksgiving for a significant blessing.

In Numbers 15:18-19 (NIV), God instructs the Israelites:

“Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land to which I am taking you and you eat the food of the land, present a portion as an offering to the Lord.’”

This passage shows that the raised offering is tied to the land God gave to His people, symbolizing their gratitude for His provision. It was a significant offering meant to honor God in response to His faithfulness.

The Nature of a Raised Offering

A raised offering is not something spontaneous or small. It involves intentional preparation, sacrifice, and thoughtfulness. It’s more than just a regular offering, which may be given out of routine or obligation. For instance, offerings like Zakah (obligatory charity in Islam) or First Fruits (offering the first part of the harvest to God) are not considered raised offerings because they are compulsory rather than voluntary and are not meant to convey the same level of honor.

In the Bible, we see that God desires the best of what we have. Malachi 1:6-8 speaks about offering blemished sacrifices:

“A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? … When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?” (Malachi 1:6-8, NIV)

This passage emphasizes that God expects our offerings to reflect our honor and respect for Him, and He rejects offerings that are made with little value or consideration.

Why a Raised Offering Must Be Different

The raised offering must be significantly different from others in that it represents the highest form of honor we can offer. That is why it is called a “raised” offering  it is “lifted up” above others in terms of its value, both in terms of sacrifice and heart attitude.

Offering something that costs us little or is less than what God deserves is considered dishonorable. 2 Samuel 24:24 records David’s words when he was offering a sacrifice:

“But the king replied to Araunah, ‘No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.’ So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen and paid fifty shekels of silver for them.”

David understood that an offering that costs him nothing is not worthy of God. Similarly, a raised offering should reflect the magnitude of God’s blessing, as in the example of David, where he was willing to pay a price to honor God.

The Sin of Offering a Poor Sacrifice

It is considered dishonoring and even sinful to offer a poor or insufficient offering, especially when God has blessed us abundantly. This is similar to promising someone a grand gift and then giving them something cheap, which would likely offend them. Haggai 1:7-9 speaks about the Israelites who were offering poor sacrifices:

“This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough… You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house.'”

This passage reflects that God cares about the quality of our offerings and sacrifices, especially when we’re blessed. If we fail to honor God with our best, we risk not receiving His blessings in return.

The Power of a Significant Offering

When God has done something great in our lives, our response should match the magnitude of His blessing. A significant offering, given in response to a great miracle or blessing, carries much more weight than a small, routine offering. In Luke 21:1-4, Jesus commended the poor widow who gave two small coins, saying:

“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”

Even though the widow’s offering seemed small in monetary value, it was a raised offering because it cost her everything. Her heart of sacrifice and devotion to God made her offering far more powerful than others.

Conclusion

A raised offering is a gift that is meant to honor God in the highest way possible, often given in response to His greatness or after receiving a significant blessing. It requires sacrifice and must be of substantial value. God desires offerings that come from a sincere and devoted heart, not offerings that are given just out of obligation or convenience.

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul teaches:

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

May we offer God our best in all that we do, knowing that He honors those who give with sincerity, devotion, and sacrifice.

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