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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.

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1. Christ’s Purpose for the Church

Let’s begin by reading Ephesians 5:25–27 (NKJV):

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,
26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”

This passage shows Christ’s sacrificial love and His ultimate goal for the Church: to sanctify and cleanse her. This cleansing is done through water and the Word  meaning both the external act of baptism and the internal work of the Word of God in the believer’s life.

2. The Symbolism of Water and Blood

This concept is rooted in Christ’s crucifixion. In John 19:34 (NKJV), the Apostle John writes:

“But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.”

This is not just a physical occurrence   it holds deep spiritual symbolism. The blood signifies the atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:22), while the water represents spiritual cleansing and renewal. These two are inseparable in the salvation process.

3. The Role of Baptism in Cleansing

In Acts 2:37–38 (NKJV), after Peter preached the gospel at Pentecost, the listeners were convicted and asked:

“Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
Then Peter said to them,

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

Here we see a clear sequence of salvation:

1. Repentance
2. Water Baptism in Jesus’ Name
3. Forgiveness of sins
4. Receiving the Holy Spirit

The apostolic teaching connected baptism with remission of sins  not as a mere ritual, but as an act of obedience and a means of sanctification (Mark 16:16, Romans 6:3–4).

4. The Unity of the Spirit, Water, and Blood

According to 1 John 5:8 (NKJV):

“And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.”

This verse affirms the theological unity of:

• The Blood — Christ’s atonement (Hebrews 9:14)
• The Water — Baptism and cleansing (Titus 3:5)
• The Spirit — Regeneration and empowerment (Romans 8:9)

No part can be ignored. True spiritual transformation involves all three.

5. The Necessity of Being Born Again

In John 3:3–5 (NKJV), Jesus tells Nicodemus:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
…
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Being born again is not just an emotional experience  it is a spiritual rebirth through:

• Water (signifying baptism)
• The Spirit (signifying transformation and regeneration)

This new birth introduces believers into the Kingdom of God (2 Corinthians 5:17).

6. The Proper Mode and Name in Baptism

Biblically, baptism was always conducted by full immersion and in the name of Jesus Christ. Consider:

• John 3:23 (NKJV) — John baptized “where there was much water,” indicating immersion.
• Acts 2:38, Acts 8:16, Acts 10:48, Acts 19:5 — All mention baptism in Jesus’ name.

This method reflects early Church practice and theological accuracy.

Conclusion

Cleansing through water and the Word is not symbolic only it is essential for Christian sanctification. Baptism is not optional or replaceable by inner conviction alone. It is part of the process Christ established to purify His Church, preparing her to be holy and blameless before

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Question: Did Isaac really find comfort in the death of his mother, as stated in Genesis 24:67?

Answer: Let’s examine the passage:

Genesis 24:67 (ESV): “Then Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.”

At first glance, one might assume this verse suggests Isaac was comforted because of his mother’s death. However, the proper interpretation is that he was comforted after her death not by the death itself, but through the love and companionship he found in Rebekah. The Hebrew phrase translated as “was comforted” (וַיִּנָּחֵם, vayinnaḥem) implies consolation or emotional healing from grief, not approval or joy at a loss.

Sarah’s death, recorded in Genesis 23, marked a significant moment of mourning. She was the only woman in the Bible whose age at death is recorded (Genesis 23:1), underscoring her importance. Isaac, her only son, was about 37 years old at the time, and the grief he felt would have been profound. The fact that Isaac did not marry until three years after Sarah’s death (Genesis 23:1 and 25:20) reflects the depth of that mourning period.

Rebekah’s Role in Isaac’s Healing

When Isaac finally marries Rebekah, she becomes not only a wife but also a source of emotional restoration. Her entrance into his life signals the end of his prolonged sorrow. Rebekah’s character and actions her kindness, hospitality, and obedience (Genesis 24:18-20, 58) demonstrate the qualities of a godly woman who nurtures and uplifts.

Rebekah, like other notable women in Scripture, reflects the biblical ideal of womanhood described in Proverbs 31:10-12 (ESV):
“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her… She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.”

Isaac’s comfort came not from forgetting Sarah but from finding new companionship that honored and extended the legacy of love and nurture he received from his mother.

A Theological Reflection for Today

This account teaches a profound theological truth about God’s design for marriage. Marriage, as instituted by God in Genesis 2:18, is meant to be a source of companionship: “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Rebekah fulfilled this role for Isaac emotionally, spiritually, and relationally.

Modern believers, especially women seeking to honor God in their relationships, can learn much from Rebekah’s example. Before seeking to emulate towering biblical figures like Moses, Elijah, or Daniel whose ministries were mighty but not directly comparable to the domestic and relational callings women should consider learning from biblical heroines: Sarah, Rebekah, Hannah, Deborah, Ruth, Esther, Mary (mother of Jesus), and Tabitha (Acts 9:36).

1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV) reminds women of godly beauty:
“Do not let your adorning be external… but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”

In a world that often distorts the roles of women and men, Rebekah’s story stands as a reminder of the power of a godly woman to bring peace, stability, and healing into a man’s life and ultimately, to reflect Christ’s love in the home.

Isaac wasn’t comforted by his mother’s death but after it through the love, support, and godly character of Rebekah. Her role became pivotal in restoring his joy and grounding their marriage in faith and mutual care.

May the Lord bless you and guide you as you seek His truth.

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Mark 14:27 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.”’”

In this passage, Jesus is quoting Zechariah 13:7, a prophecy about the Messiah’s suffering. The term “made to stumble” (Greek: skandalizō) is sometimes translated as “offended,” “fall away,” or “caused to stumble.” It refers to being shocked, disillusioned, or spiritually shaken to the point of doubt or failure.

Jesus was preparing His disciples for the traumatic events about to unfold His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. These events would deeply disturb their faith and loyalty.

1. Theological Meaning of “Stumbling” or “Being Offended”

Theologically, to be “offended” in the biblical sense is not merely to feel insulted; it’s to encounter a spiritual crisis a moment where circumstances challenge your trust in God. It’s a falling away that comes from fear, disappointment, or confusion.

Matthew 26:31 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.”’”

This shows that even sincere believers can be overwhelmed by events that shake their faith. Yet Jesus wasn’t condemning them—He was revealing their weakness so they would understand their need for His grace.

2. How the Disciples Were Offended

This prophecy was fulfilled within hours. When Roman soldiers came to arrest Jesus, the disciples fled in fear. Peter, emotionally overwhelmed, reacted violently:

John 18:10 (NKJV):
“Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.”

Peter’s reaction was rooted in confusion and frustration. He couldn’t understand why the Messiah would allow Himself to be captured. This teaches us that even zealous believers can be offended when God’s plan doesn’t align with their expectations.

3. Being Offended for Christ’s Sake Today

The reality is: anyone who follows Jesus will experience moments of offense times when your faith is tested, your heart is troubled, or your beliefs are mocked.

John 15:20 (NKJV):
“Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.”

Here are modern examples of how believers can be “offended” because of Christ:

• Hearing blasphemy or disrespect toward Jesus can deeply grieve your spirit.

• Seeing false teachings that distort the gospel can cause righteous anger.

• Experiencing rejection or mockery for standing on biblical truth may tempt you to give up.

• Being spiritually attacked or discouraged just for choosing to live righteously can lead to inward struggle.

Yet, Jesus taught us not to respond with violence or hatred.

Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV):
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age…”

Our mission isn’t to fight people but to love them and speak truth in grace. We’re called to save souls, not destroy them, even when provoked.

4. The Role of Trials in Our Faith

God allows these moments of offense or stumbling to test and purify our faith. Trials reveal what’s real in us. And when we fail, like Peter did, Jesus is still there to restore us.

Luke 22:31–32 (NKJV):
“And the Lord said, ‘Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.’”

Jesus knew Peter would stumble but also that he would return stronger.

Final Encouragement

If you’ve ever been hurt, shaken, or discouraged in your walk with Christ know that it’s not a sign of failure. It’s part of the journey of faith. What matters is that you don’t stay down. Trust in God’s grace to strengthen you again.

James 1:2–4 (NKJV):
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

Shalom. Keep walking with Christ, even when it’s hard.

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What Does “Run Aground” Mean? (Acts 27:26)

Let’s read:

Acts 27:25–26 (NIV)
“So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.
Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.”

The phrase “run aground” refers to a ship entering shallow waters and becoming stuck or striking the seabed. It often indicates being forced to stop or redirected by natural obstacles. In this context, it was a divine means of preserving life and fulfilling God’s sovereign plan.

Background Context: Paul’s Journey to Rome

In Acts 27, the Apostle Paul is being transported as a prisoner to Rome to stand trial before Caesar. Despite being under Roman guard, Paul was in the center of God’s will. He had already been told by Jesus Himself that he “must testify also in Rome” (Acts 23:11). This journey, although filled with danger, was part of God’s divine orchestration to position Paul for a wider ministry.

Paul warned the crew that their voyage would end in disaster if they set sail (Acts 27:10), but his advice was ignored. As a result, they encountered a violent storm known as a northeaster (Acts 27:14), which drove the ship off course for many days. They were unable to navigate or eat, and the situation seemed hopeless.

God’s Assurance in the Storm

In the middle of despair, Paul received a message from an angel of God:

Acts 27:23–24 (NIV)
“Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’”

This powerful moment demonstrates two important truths:

1. God’s Sovereignty Over Circumstances – Even though Paul was a prisoner, he was ultimately under God’s control, not Rome’s. God had already ordained his mission in Rome (see also Romans 1:15), and no storm could hinder that purpose.

2. God’s Mercy for the Unbelieving – The lives of everyone on board were spared because of Paul’s presence. This reflects the biblical principle that God’s blessings often extend to others through His faithful servants (cf. Genesis 39:5 – “The LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph”).

Theological Reflections and Life Applications

1. God Is Present In Our Storms

Though Paul was physically bound, spiritually he was free and deeply connected to God. This reveals the truth of

Romans 8:28:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Your trial does not mean God is absent. On the contrary, storms often become the very places where God’s presence is most powerfully revealed. Just as Jesus calmed the storm for His disciples (Mark 4:39), He gives us peace amid our tempests—not always by stopping the storm, but by sustaining us through it.

2. Our Trials Are Often Pathways for Others’ Salvation

Paul’s endurance and spiritual leadership became a source of salvation not just for himself but for the entire ship’s company. This prefigures the Gospel itself: one righteous man’s suffering (Christ’s) leads to the salvation of many.

Jesus said in

 Matthew 5:14–16 (NIV):
“You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Paul shone brightly in that dark moment. Likewise, we must remember that our suffering is never wasted. God often uses it to reveal His power to others—especially unbelievers—through our faith, courage, and testimony.

3. Trust in God’s Word Brings Stability

Paul told the men, “I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me” (Acts 27:25). His confidence wasn’t in favorable weather or skilled sailors but in God’s spoken promise. This is a profound lesson for believers:

Isaiah 55:11 (NIV) – “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

In seasons of uncertainty, anchor yourself in God’s promises. They do not fail, even when everything else does.

It’s significant that Paul says in Acts 27:26, “Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.” God’s plan included the shipwreck—but not as a tragedy. Rather, it was a strategic stop. In the next chapter (Acts 28), Paul and the crew land on the island of Malta, where Paul performs miracles and shares the Gospel, leading to revival and healing (Acts 28:7–10). What looked like a disaster was actually divine direction.

Psalm 37:23–24 (NIV)
“The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.”

Sometimes the path to your destiny will involve running aground. But even there—especially there—God is at work.

Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus! 

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Let’s read the verse:

Proverbs 13:8

“The ransom of a man’s life is his wealth, but a poor man hears no threat.”

In this passage, the Bible is teaching that a person’s wealth can serve as a ransom or protection in times of danger. When someone faces threats—like legal consequences, violence, robbery, or extortion—they may use their wealth to “ransom” or rescue themselves.

But the poor person hears no threats—why? Not because they are unimportant, but because they have nothing that attracts such danger. In a paradoxical way, poverty can sometimes offer protection. Criminals, corrupt people, or oppressors don’t target the poor because they have no material gain to offer.

This passage reveals a profound biblical principle of wisdom and humility in how we manage our lives and possessions. It teaches us the danger of flaunting wealth and the spiritual value of contentment and discretion.

To understand more deeply, let’s look at the verse before it:

Proverbs 13:7

“One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.”

This verse reminds us that appearances can be deceptive. Someone may act rich but have nothing, while another may hide their wealth under the appearance of humility. And this connects directly to verse 8—because if you appear wealthy, you attract danger. But if you live humbly, you may avoid unnecessary threats.

Proverbs 13:8 is more than a commentary on money—it’s a call to live wisely and humbly. You don’t need to display your wealth for people to see. Doing so may invite trouble. Instead, live modestly, protect your peace, and place your trust not in wealth—but in God.

Whether rich or poor, let wisdom guide your lifestyle. Avoid unnecessary attention. Let your life reflect discernment, humility, and godly wisdom.

The Lord is coming!

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Let’s examine the passage carefully:

John 11:14–16 (NIV):

“Then Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead,
and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.’
Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the other disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with him.’”

At first glance, it may seem that Thomas wanted to die alongside Lazarus. However, this is a misunderstanding of the text.

Thomas did not intend to die with Lazarus himself. Rather, he was expressing a willingness to go with Jesus, even if it meant facing death with Him.

Context and Theological Significance

To fully grasp Thomas’s statement, let’s consider the wider context of John 11:5-16 (NIV):

Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (John 11:5), demonstrating the deep personal relationships He had with them. When Lazarus fell seriously ill, Jesus delayed going to him for two days (John 11:6), which serves a greater divine purpose: to glorify God through the upcoming miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:4).

When Jesus announces He is returning to Judea (John 11:7), His disciples express fear because the Jews there recently tried to stone Jesus (John 11:8). Jesus’ reply about walking in the light or darkness (John 11:9-10) is rich in theological meaning: He is the Light of the world (John 8:12), and His followers, walking in the light, will not stumble.

Jesus refers to Lazarus as “sleeping” (John 11:11-13), using sleep as a metaphor for death, signaling that death is temporary and that He has power over it  a key Christological theme pointing to Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25).

When Jesus plainly says Lazarus is dead (John 11:14), He expresses confidence that this event will serve to strengthen the disciples’ faith (John 11:15). Despite the danger, Jesus insists on going to Judea.

Thomas’s Response and Its Meaning

Thomas’s remark, “Let us also go, that we may die with him,” reflects his loyalty and readiness to face danger with Jesus (John 11:16). Theologically, this reveals several important points:

1. Faith and Courage: Thomas shows a willingness to stand with Jesus even unto death, a hallmark of genuine discipleship (Luke 9:23). This anticipates the costly discipleship Jesus later teaches.
2. Misunderstanding of Jesus’s Mission: Thomas, like the other disciples, does not fully grasp the nature of Jesus’s mission  that His death and resurrection would defeat death itself. Thomas sees the risk as physical death, not the victorious glory to come.
3. Foreshadowing of Christ’s Passion: Thomas’s willingness prefigures the future trials the disciples will face after Jesus’s arrest and crucifixion (John 13:36, Acts 7:54-60).

A Lesson on Dependence on God’s Strength

Thomas’s readiness contrasts with Peter’s later failure (Luke 22:31-34), illustrating human weakness despite good intentions. The New Testament consistently teaches that our strength to serve and endure comes not from ourselves but from God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

This passage challenges believers to humility and dependence on God rather than self-confidence. True faith means recognizing our limitations and trusting God for strength, especially in the face of suffering and death.

Be blessed!

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