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What Is Righteousness in the Bible? What Is the Righteousness of God?

Righteousness, in its simplest form, means that which someone rightfully deserves. For instance, every human being has the right to live. No one has the right to take another person’s life based on their gender, physical appearance, mental state, or disability. As long as a person is human, they deserve the right to life.

Another example: if someone has studied and completed a degree in medicine, we rightfully call them a doctor. They’ve earned that title through the appropriate qualifications.

In the same way, in the spiritual realm, God also has His standards of righteousness. In the beginning, in order to be close to God and receive His blessings and favor, a person had to fully obey His Law. That is, they had to live a perfect life in line with all of God’s commandments. In return, they would receive His spiritual blessings. This is clearly outlined in Deuteronomy 28.

However, unfortunately, no one was ever able to completely fulfill all of God’s commandments. Human beings have consistently fallen short of God’s perfect standard. The Bible says:

“All have turned away, all have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.” — Psalm 14:3, NIV

Because of this, no one could rightfully claim righteousness before God through their own deeds. Everyone was guilty of sin.

In response to this, God created a new plan to save humanity. He made a way for human beings to be declared righteous—not by keeping the Law—but through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. This is the essence of the Gospel: that anyone who believes in Jesus receives God’s righteousness as a free gift, apart from the Law.

“But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” — Romans 3:21–24, NIV

So now, when you believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you are counted as righteous before God—not because of your good works—but because of Christ’s perfect obedience and sacrifice on your behalf. You are made holy, you are accepted, and you can approach God with confidence.

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” — Hebrews 4:16, NIV

This is what we call “the righteousness that comes from God”—it is not earned by our effort but received by grace through faith in Christ.

Through Jesus:

  • We receive eternal life freely.

  • We receive answers to our prayers freely.

  • We are called saints and children of God.

But the important question is: Have you believed in Jesus Christ?
Remember, no human being can please God through their own works alone. Every person under the sun needs Jesus Christ. If you have not yet received His salvation, the door is still open for you today.

Repent and turn to the Lord so that He may forgive your sins and make you a new creation.

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What Does Proverbs 16:30 Really Mean?

“Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity; whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.”
 Proverbs 16:30 (NIV)

Understanding the Verse

At first glance, Proverbs 16:30 might seem like a simple warning about body language. But there’s much more here than meets the eye.

This verse isn’t condemning the physical act of winking or keeping silent it’s addressing the heart attitude behind subtle and deceptive behavior. To interpret this correctly, we need to look at the broader message of Proverbs and the Bible as a whole.

Misconceptions Clarified

Some might think this verse teaches that closing your eyes leads to evil thoughts. But if that were the case, closing our eyes in prayer would be wrong! In fact, closing one’s eyes or keeping quiet can be acts of wisdom or reverence, depending on the context.

For example, when confronted with something sinful, shameful, or violent, a godly person may choose to look away rather than entertain or glorify evil. This was demonstrated by Shem and Japheth, the sons of Noah:

“But Shem and Japheth took a garment and laid it across their shoulders; then they walked in backward and covered their father’s naked body. Their faces were turned the other way so that they would not see their father naked.”
Genesis 9:23 (NIV)

Here, they showed honor by deliberately choosing not to look at what was shameful. In contrast, Proverbs 16:30 is not about this kind of righteous behavior but about someone who intentionally avoids the truth so they can continue in sin.

Spiritual Blindness and Willful Ignorance

The first part of the verse“winks with their eye is plotting perversity”symbolizes someone who uses subtle gestures to manipulate or deceive. But more deeply, it describes someone who closes their eyes to spiritual truth.

“They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.”
Ephesians 4:18 (NIV)

Just like those who rejected Jesus during His earthly ministry, this person refuses to see or acknowledge God’s truth, even when it’s clearly presented. Jesus Himself said:

“For this people’s heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.”
Matthew 13:15 (NIV)

When someone chooses to ignore God’s Word especially its calls to repentancethey are, in essence, “winking” at sin, dismissing conviction, and continuing down a destructive path.

What About the Lips?

The second part of Proverbs 16:30 says: “Whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.”

This isn’t a warning against silence itself Proverbs elsewhere praises those who guard their speech:

“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”
Proverbs 21:23 (NIV)

Rather, this is a warning about a person who withholds good, life giving speech, refusing to speak truth, correction, or encouragement. Instead of edifying others, their silence becomes complicit in evil, or eventually gives way to harmful and wicked words.

This aligns with Jesus’ teaching in Luke:

“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”
Luke 6:45 (NIV)

Your speech reveals what fills your heart. If your heart is not surrendered to God, your words will eventually reflect it.

Self-Examination and the Need for Christ

This verse challenges us to ask:What do our eyes focus on truth or deception?What do our lips express life or destruction?

But more importantly: Is our heart surrendered to Christ?

Because the truth is, you cannot control your eyes or your tongue unless Jesus Christ reigns in your heart. You may try to be moral or well-mannered, but only the transforming power of the Holy Spirit can purify your motives and actions from the inside out.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

Do You Want Help from Jesus?

If your heart is stirring and you desire change, there’s good news. Jesus Christ offers forgiveness, new life, and the power to overcome sin but only to those who surrender to Him.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9 (NIV)

Your first step is to surrender your life to Him. Let Him forgive your sins and make you new. He will give you the strength to walk in righteousness, speak life, and see with clear spiritual vision.

May the Lord bless you.

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What Does It Mean That “Heaven and Earth Will Pass Away, but My Words Will Never Pass Away”? – Matthew 24:35 (ESV)

Matthew 24:35 (ESV):
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”

This profound statement by Jesus is part of His teaching about the end times, found in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24–25). Here, Jesus is assuring His followers that while everything in the physical world is temporary and destined to come to an end, His words—His teachings, promises, and truth—are eternal and unchanging.

1. The Nature of Jesus: Eternal and Unchanging

To understand this verse, we must first grasp the unchanging nature of Christ:

Hebrews 13:8 (ESV):
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Everything in creation changes with time—people age, relationships shift, even the earth deteriorates. But Jesus remains eternally consistent in His character, truth, and purpose. He never contradicts Himself, never revokes His promises, and never acts against His nature.

2. Heaven and Earth Are Temporary

The “heaven and earth” in this context refer to the created order: the skies, the stars, the planets, and the earth itself. Despite their grandeur and age, Scripture declares that these will eventually be undone.

Revelation 6:12–14 (ESV):
“When he opened the sixth seal, I looked, and behold, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black as sackcloth, the full moon became like blood,
and the stars of the sky fell to the earth… The sky vanished like a scroll that is being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.”

 

Revelation 16:20 (ESV):
“And every island fled away, and no mountains were to be found.”

These verses demonstrate that even the most stable and enduring elements of creation will “pass away” when God’s final judgment comes.

3. But the Word of Christ Remains Forever

In contrast to the instability and eventual destruction of creation, the words of Jesus are eternal and unchanging. His teachings are not bound by time, culture, or circumstance. They are forever true and authoritative.

Isaiah 40:8 (ESV):
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

Jesus, being the eternal Word made flesh (John 1:1,14), speaks with the full authority of God. His words don’t just carry information—they carry life, truth, and eternal impact.

4. The Eternal Identity of Christ

Jesus made clear declarations about who He is—declarations that will never expire or change:

“I am the Alpha and the Omega”

Revelation 22:13, ESV: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

“I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life”

John 14:6, ESV): “No one comes to the Father except through me.”

“I am the Light of the World”

(John 8:12, ESV): “Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Even when natural light sources like the sun and moon cease to exist, Jesus Himself will be the light in the new creation:

Revelation 21:23 (ESV):
“And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb.”

5. His Faithfulness Is Everlasting

Jesus is also described as “Faithful and True”:

Revelation 19:11 (ESV):
“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True…”

Unlike human beings, whose loyalty often wavers, Jesus’ faithfulness to His word and to His people is eternal and unbreakable.

6. His Promises of Eternal Life Will Never Change

John 6:47 (ESV):
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.”

This promise is absolute. Once spoken by Christ, it is fixed in eternity. His words are not bound to an age or era—what He declares will always be valid and trustworthy.

Final Reflection:

If the entire universe is passing away, and only Christ’s words remain—then we must ask ourselves:
Where have we placed our trust?

  • In people, who change and fail?
  • In possessions, which decay?
  • In systems, which collapse?

Or have we trusted in Jesus, the One who does not change, whose word never fails, and whose promises are eternal?

Matthew 7:24 (ESV):
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

Conclusion:

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away” is a call to place our confidence in the eternal truth and authority of Christ. Everything else in life is temporary—but His word endures forever.

Will you trust Him—the eternal, faithful Savior?

God bless you.

 

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What Is a “Water Jug”? (1 Samuel 26:11–12)

Let’s begin by reading Scripture:

“But the LORD forbid that I should lay a hand on the LORD’s anointed. Now get the spear and water jug that are near his head, and let’s go.”
So David took the spear and water jug near Saul’s head, and they left. No one saw or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up. They were all sleeping, because the LORD had put them into a deep sleep.
(1 Samuel 26:11–12)

What is a “water jug”?

Water jug or pitcher used to carry and store drinking water, often for personal or household use. In biblical times, such vessels were typically made of clay by potters. These clay jugs were common in daily life—used to fetch water from wells or store it at home.

In modern times, jugs are still used but are often made of glass or plastic. Though materials have changed, the purpose remains the same: to hold water, a basic yet essential resource for life.

Biblical Significance of the Water Jug

In 1 Samuel 26, David spared Saul’s life for the second time. Instead of harming the king, David took Saul’s spear and water jug. Why the water jug?

  • The spear symbolized Saul’s authority and power.
  • The water jug symbolized life and sustenance—a person could not survive long without water.

By taking both, David made a powerful point: he had the power to take Saul’s life (the spear), and even his basic needs (the water), but he chose mercy instead. This moment reflects David’s reverence for God’s anointed and his trust in God’s justice rather than taking vengeance into his own hands (cf. Romans 12:19).

Other Biblical References to Water Jugs

Several other verses mention similar vessels:

  • 1 Kings 19:6 – “He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.”

    This was when Elijah was fed by the angel of the Lord—a moment of divine provision and restoration.

  • Jeremiah 19:1– “This is what the LORD says: ‘Go and buy a clay jar from a potter…’”

    This jar represented the people of Judah and would be shattered as a symbol of coming judgment.

  • Jeremiah 19:10 – “Then break the jar while those who go with you are watching.”

    The breaking of the jar symbolized the irreversible judgment on Jerusalem.

In all these cases, the vessel carries deeper symbolic meaning: life, judgment, restoration, or God’s message.

Spiritual Reflection: Are You Ready?

The water jug reminds us of the fragility of life and our daily need for spiritual sustenance—just as we need physical water, we need the Living Water that only Christ gives (John 4:10, 14).

“…whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
(John 4:14)

As we consider the return of Jesus Christ, the Bible reminds us that we are living in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1–5), and the rapture of the Church can occur at any moment (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). The time to believe in Jesus is now.

Have You Believed in the Lord Jesus?

The question isn’t just historical or symbolic. It’s personal.

  • Have you received the Living Water?
  • Are you ready for Christ’s return?
  • Are you daily depending on God’s provision—just as Saul needed that water jug, and Elijah needed that jar of water?

Let us humble ourselves, turn to Christ in faith, and live with expectant hearts.

May the Lord help us to be ready. Amen.

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What is the Meaning of “The Hour is Coming” and “Now Is” in John 4:23?

In John 4:23, Jesus tells the Samaritan woman at the well:

“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.” (John 4:23, ESV)

To understand this statement, let’s first look at the context, beginning with John 4:19-22:

“The woman said to him, ‘Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.’” (John 4:19–22, ESV)

The Samaritan woman was referring to the long-standing religious debate between Jews and Samaritans about the proper location of worship—Mount Gerizim or Jerusalem. But Jesus redirects the conversation to a deeper truth about worship itself.

1. “The hour is coming” – A Future Transformation in Worship

When Jesus says, “the hour is coming,” He is pointing to a soon-coming change in the way people relate to and worship God. This “hour” refers to the coming of a new covenant reality, made possible through His death, resurrection, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (see Acts 2:1–4).

Under the old covenant, worship was tied to physical places like the temple in Jerusalem, and it was mediated through priests and rituals. But Jesus was ushering in a new covenant, in which worship would no longer be restricted to a specific place, but would be spiritual and accessible to all through faith in Christ.

This new way of worship would be based on:

  • The Spirit – the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit (see John 16:13),

  • Truth – the revealed truth of God, centered in Jesus Christ (see John 14:6).

2. “And is now here” – The Present Reality in Christ

When Jesus adds, “and is now here,” He emphasizes that this new way of worship was already beginning — right then and there — in His own ministry. Why?

Because Jesus Himself, full of the Holy Spirit (see Luke 4:1), was the perfect example of worshiping the Father in spirit and truth. In His life and teachings, the new pattern of worship was already being revealed.

Even before Pentecost, those who followed Jesus and believed in Him were already entering into this new kind of worship — not through rituals, but through relationship. And Jesus promised that after His departure, the Holy Spirit would be given to all believers to empower them to live and worship in this new way:

“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” (John 16:7, ESV)

3. Worshiping “in Spirit and Truth” – What It Means

To worship God “in spirit and truth” means:

  • In Spirit: Empowered and led by the Holy Spirit, not bound by external forms or locations (see Romans 8:14).

  • In Truth: In accordance with the truth revealed in God’s Word and through Jesus Christ Himself (see John 17:17).

This kind of worship is authentic, heartfelt, and Christ-centered. It is not about rituals or traditions, but about intimate fellowship with God made possible through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

As Paul writes:

“For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.” (Philippians 3:3, ESV)

4. Today: Living in the “Hour” of True Worship

The “hour” Jesus spoke of has fully arrived and continues today. Since the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), the Holy Spirit has been poured out on all who believe in Jesus, enabling every believer — regardless of location, nationality, or background — to worship the Father in spirit and truth.

Peter confirmed this on the day of Pentecost:

“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, ESV)

This is the ongoing invitation and calling for all believers: to draw near to God not through religious systems, but through the Holy Spirit and the truth found in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion:

When Jesus said “The hour is coming, and is now here,” He was announcing the dawn of a new spiritual reality — one in which worship would be transformed from a localized ritual into a personal, Spirit-filled relationship with the Father, accessible to all through Christ.

This message remains just as relevant today: true worship is not about where you are, but who you worship, how you worship, and by whom you are led — the Holy Spirit and the Truth of God’s Word.

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What Is a earring or ornament and What Message Does It Carry?

Let us examine the passage:

“Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.”
(Proverbs 25:12, ESV)

In this verse, the word translated in some Swahili Bibles as “kipuli” refers to an earring or ornament worn on the ear. It’s a metaphor a poetic image used by Solomon to describe how precious it is to receive wise correction when the heart is willing to listen.

Though the term kipuli appears only once in Swahili translations of the Bible, the idea of valuable adornment appears throughout Scripture. Here, Solomon is not talking about literal jewelry, but about the spiritual beauty of someone who listens to wisdom and correction. A person who accepts rebuke from the wise is being adorned, spiritually, like someone wearing fine gold.

In biblical symbolism, gold represents purity, value, and divine wisdom. Gold was used in the furnishings of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25–27) and in Solomon’s Temple, symbolizing that which is holy and set apart. So, a person who accepts godly correction is compared to something sacred and valuable.

Listening: A Mark of Humility and Wisdom

The listening ear in Proverbs 25:12 represents a humble heart a heart that desires growth, understanding, and truth, even when it comes in the form of rebuke. Throughout Scripture, listening is associated with obedience, learning, and fear of the Lord:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
(Proverbs 1:7, ESV)

“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”
(Proverbs 1:5, ESV)

A listening ear is rare in a proud world, yet it is prized by God. Listening to correction is portrayed here as an adornment, suggesting that true beauty is internal and spiritual, not external and material.

Theological Connection: Inner Beauty vs. Outward Appearance

This idea resonates strongly with 1 Peter 3:3–4 (ESV):

“Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—
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.”

The apostle Peter is not condemning outward adornment itself but is contrasting it with something far more important a gentle and quiet spirit. This imperishable beauty is what truly pleases God. It is not destroyed with age, trends, or time, because it flows from the work of the Holy Spirit.

Likewise, 1 Timothy 2:9–10 speaks to this spiritual emphasis:

“…women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire,
but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.”

Both Paul and Peter affirm that inner holiness and receptiveness to God’s truth are more precious than any outward display.

The Source of Wisdom: God’s Word

To adorn our ears with “gold” in the spiritual sense means to tune them to the voice of divine wisdom God’s Word. Solomon stresses this in Proverbs 2:1–5 (ESV):

“My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you,
making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding;
yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding,
if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”

The fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. And wisdom, in biblical theology, is not merely intellectual it’s relational. It involves knowing God, obeying Him, and humbling ourselves to receive His instruction, even when it convicts us.

A Final Reflection

So, let’s ask ourselves:
What kind of “earrings” are we wearing? Are our ears adorned with the world’s noise, or are they decorated with the beauty of godly wisdom?

The gold that matters to God is not physical it is found in a heart that is teachable, humble, and receptive to His truth.

“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
(Proverbs 16:20, ESV)

May the Lord bless you

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What Are “Mashonde”? (Ezekiel 4:15)

Question: What are “mashonde” as mentioned in Ezekiel 4:15, and what do they represent?

Answer: Let’s dive deeper into the text…

Ezekiel 4:12 (NKJV)

You shall eat it as barley cakes, and bake it using fuel of human waste in their sight

In this passage, the term “mashonde” refers to dried dung, whether from animals or humans. The word itself is a colloquial term in the Hebrew, essentially describing a fuel source for baking or cooking. This concept may sound strange to us today, but it was part of the ancient world’s survival tactics, especially in times of scarcity.

Historical Context: Dung as Fuel

Historically, both human and animal dung was used as a resource, particularly in regions where wood was scarce. Dung burns with a hotter flame than dry wood and was often collected and used for fuel. This practice is still observed in some parts of the world today, especially in rural or impoverished areas. In the ancient Near East, it wasn’t uncommon to use camel or cattle dung as fuel.

This practice can also be seen in the Middle East, where dry camel or cattle dung was used as a practical source of heat. Interestingly, in some cultures, it was occasionally used during periods of extreme hardship or famine. The idea of human dung being used in this way is also recorded in some ancient texts, though it would generally be considered taboo. However, as Ezekiel’s context suggests, God commanded this specific practice to send a powerful message to the nation of Israel.

The Symbolism Behind “Mashonde” in Ezekiel

Ezekiel’s instructions from God were not arbitrary; they had profound symbolic meaning. The prophet Ezekiel was commanded to use human dung to bake his bread in front of the people. This was a deliberate act designed to communicate a very serious message to the Israelites, who were facing impending exile and destruction due to their unfaithfulness to God.

This bizarre command was meant to show Israel that their sins would lead them to a state of extreme deprivation. They would suffer so greatly that they would be reduced to eating food baked over the very waste of their bodies—representing the complete degradation of their condition. The use of dung symbolized not only physical depravity but also spiritual corruption.

God had chosen Ezekiel as a prophetic symbol for Israel, and like Hosea’s marriage to an unfaithful woman (Hosea 1:2), Ezekiel’s actions would become a living parable for the nation of Israel. As Hosea’s life portrayed Israel’s spiritual unfaithfulness to God, Ezekiel’s actions symbolized the coming judgment, famine, and suffering due to their sins.

Ezekiel 4:13 (NIV)

The Lord said, ‘This is how the Israelites will eat their food defiled among the nations where I will drive them.

A Deeper Theological Reflection: The Cost of Turning Away from God

Theologically, this passage highlights the serious consequences of spiritual apostasy—turning away from God and following our own sinful desires. The Israelites were about to experience God’s judgment because of their idolatry, disobedience, and rejection of His covenant. The use of dung to bake bread becomes a vivid metaphor for how low Israel’s spiritual and physical state would sink.

In the Bible, idolatry and disobedience are often linked to destruction and suffering. The Israelites had forsaken God’s commands and sought after foreign gods (idolatry), leading them to moral and spiritual corruption. This corruption led to national disintegration and devastation. The use of human dung in Ezekiel’s prophecy highlights the extent of their degradation—spiritually, they had reached a place of impurity so severe that they would soon resort to consuming bread made from something unclean and offensive.

Isaiah 1:5-6 (NIV)

Why should you be beaten anymore? Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted. From the sole of your foot to the top of your head there is no soundness—only wounds and welts and open sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with olive oil.

This passage from Isaiah mirrors the severity of the Israelites’ condition—both physically and spiritually. When we abandon God, we invite His judgment, and this judgment can manifest in both external hardships (famine, captivity) and internal decay (spiritual death, moral collapse).

God’s Mercy and Ezekiel’s Plea

Ezekiel’s immediate reaction to God’s command was one of objection based on his own sense of purity. Ezekiel’s plea to God underscores the importance of maintaining holiness and purity, even in the face of divine judgment.

Ezekiel 4:14 (NIV)

Then I said, ‘Alas, Sovereign LORD, I have never defiled myself. From my youth until now I have never eaten anything found dead or torn by wild animals; no impure meat has ever entered my mouth.

This plea is not just a personal declaration of holiness, but it also emphasizes the high value placed on ritual purity within Jewish law. For Ezekiel, eating food prepared over human dung would defile him according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11). This law symbolized God’s desire for His people to maintain spiritual cleanliness.

Yet, God responds with mercy and modifies the command.

Ezekiel 4:15 (NIV)

He said to me, ‘Very well, I will let you bake your bread over cow dung instead of human dung, and you will use it.

This change is significant. Even in the midst of judgment, God’s mercy is evident. By allowing Ezekiel to use cow dung instead of human dung, God mitigates the defilement while still conveying His judgment through the act of baking bread over dung.

What Do We Learn from This Passage?

The theological lesson here is powerful: When we forsake God and choose to follow our own desires, we put ourselves in a dangerous position, spiritually and physically. Just as the Israelites were warned of impending destruction because they had abandoned the covenant and turned to idolatry, we too are reminded of the consequences of turning away from God.

Jeremiah 2:13 (NIV)

My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.

This verse encapsulates the essence of Israel’s spiritual problem—rejecting the true source of life (God) and seeking fulfillment in things that cannot satisfy (idols and sin). In Ezekiel’s case, the Israelites would be forced to eat bread baked over dung, symbolizing how their rebellion would lead them to a place of desperation and hopelessness.

Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Jesus’ words echo the warning of Ezekiel. There are consequences for walking away from God’s path, and though the road to destruction may seem easy and enticing, it ultimately leads to ruin.

Have You Accepted Jesus Christ as Your Lord and Savior?

Just as God provided a way out of Israel’s judgment through His mercy (allowing Ezekiel to use cow dung instead of human dung), we find mercy and grace in Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice, we are offered forgiveness, cleansing, and a new life.

John 14:6 (NIV)

Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Let us not follow the broad road of destruction but choose the narrow path that leads to eternal life in Christ.

May God help us all to walk faithfully with Him.

 

 

 

 

 

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What Did Jesus Mean by Saying “Anyone Who Looks at a Woman Lustfully Has Already Committed Adultery With Her in His Heart”?

Matthew 5:27–28

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
— Matthew 5:27–28

Understanding the Context

In this part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is explaining the deeper meaning of the Law. The Pharisees taught that sin was primarily about external behavior, like physically committing adultery. But Jesus goes further—He teaches that sin begins in the heart.

Looking at someone with lustful intent—not just noticing their beauty, but desiring them sexually in your mind and heart—is already spiritual adultery. Why? Because God sees our intentions (1 Samuel 16:7), not just our actions.

This teaching reveals God’s standard of holiness. He desires not only external purity but also internal righteousness—a clean heart and mind.

Is Desire Itself Sinful?

A natural question arises:

“Does this mean any kind of sexual desire is sinful?”

The answer is no. Desire in itself is not evil—it is God-given. God created us with the ability to feel hunger, thirst, and yes, sexual attraction. The key issue is how that desire is directed.

Paul teaches that our bodies and desires are not inherently bad, but they must be brought under God’s control:

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.
— 1 Corinthians 6:12

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor.”
— 1 Thessalonians 4:3–4

In other words, God created sexual desire to be fulfilled only within the covenant of marriage (Hebrews 13:4). Outside of that context, desire can become distorted into lust, which is self-centered and dishonoring to both God and others.

How Does Lust Begin—and How Can We Fight It?

Lust begins with small compromises: a lingering glance, a fantasy, watching something inappropriate, or engaging in flirty conversations. Over time, these habits shape our hearts and can lead to sin in action.

James describes this spiritual progression clearly:

“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”
— James 1:14–15

So how do we resist?

1. Guard Your Environment

Avoid places, media, or conversations that stir up lust. Like Proverbs says:

“Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned?”
— Proverbs 6:27

This includes:

  • Watching sexually charged content (movies, music videos, social media).
  • Engaging in casual flirting or chat messages with someone you’re not married to.
  • Being idle or bored, which gives the enemy room to tempt your thoughts.

2. Renew Your Mind

Fill your thoughts with truth, not temptation.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”
— Romans 12:2

This happens through:

  • Reading Scripture regularly.
  • Prayer and fasting.
  • Christian community and accountability.
  • Memorizing and meditating on verses like Philippians 4:8:

    “…whatever is pure… think about these things.”

3. Redirect Your Desires

God doesn’t want to remove your desire—He wants to purify it. Sexual desire should lead us to God’s design, not away from it.

If you’re married, pursue intimacy with your spouse as a gift from God (see 1 Corinthians 7:3–5). If you’re single, practice self-control and trust in God’s timing. Jesus Himself lived a sinless, celibate life—He understands your struggle (Hebrews 4:15).

This Is Not Just a “Men’s Issue”

Lust is not limited to men. Jesus spoke to everyone—His teaching applies to women, too. Both genders are called to walk in holiness and purity.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
— Matthew 5:8

Final Encouragement

If you’ve struggled in this area, there is hope. Jesus not only reveals our sin—He also provides forgiveness and the power to overcome.

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9

Don’t try to fight lust in your own strength. Rely on the Holy Spirit, stay in the Word, and set healthy boundaries. God cares more about your heart than your performance—and He’s able to help you walk in freedom.

May the Lord strengthen you to live a life of purity in thought, heart, and action.

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What Does “He Led Captivity Captive” Mean?

Key Verse:

“Therefore He says: ‘When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men.’”
— Ephesians 4:8

Understanding the Phrase

At first glance, “He led captivity captive” may sound mysterious. But when read in context and supported with other Scriptures, it reveals a powerful truth about Jesus Christ’s victory over the powers of darkness and His provision for the Church.

In biblical times, this phrase was often used in the context of a victorious king who, after defeating his enemies, would return home with captives, treasures, and spoils of war. Here, Paul uses that imagery to describe what Jesus accomplished through His death, resurrection, and ascension.

Jesus Was on a Divine Mission

The Kingdom of Heaven is not something passively received — it is something to be actively pursued. Jesus Himself said:

“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
— Matthew 11:12

This means the Kingdom is spiritually contested — not entered through comfort but through persistence and commitment. Even Jesus had to fight a spiritual battle to reclaim humanity’s authority and inheritance.

Victory at the Cross

Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin, death, and Satan. What once held us captive — sin, guilt, fear, and separation from God — was defeated.

“…when He raised [Christ] from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion… And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church.”
— Ephesians 1:20–22

This shows that Christ’s ascension wasn’t just about going to heaven — it was a triumphant return as the eternal King who had defeated every spiritual enemy.

What Was the “Captivity” He Led?

The “captivity” Jesus led refers to the spiritual bondage humanity was under — captivity to sin (Romans 6:17), fear of death (Hebrews 2:14–15), and the legal demands of the Law (Colossians 2:14–15). Jesus conquered all these and led them captive — they no longer have power over those who are in Christ.

“…that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
— Hebrews 2:14–15

What Gifts Did He Give to Men?

Having won this spiritual victory, Jesus gave spiritual gifts to His people — not gold or land, but grace-empowered roles and supernatural abilities to serve God and build the Church.

1. Ministry Offices:

“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.”
— Ephesians 4:11

These are leadership roles meant to equip believers for ministry and spiritual maturity (Ephesians 4:12–13).

2. Spiritual Gifts (Charismata):

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all…”
— 1 Corinthians 12:7–11

These include:

  • Word of wisdom
  • Word of knowledge
  • Faith
  • Gifts of healing
  • Working of miracles
  • Prophecy
  • Discerning of spirits
  • Speaking in tongues
  • Interpretation of tongues

These gifts are not for personal glory but for serving others and advancing the gospel.

So, What Does This Mean for Us Today?

If Christ conquered spiritual forces and gave us His authority, then we too are called to live victoriously — not in fear or defeat, but with boldness and power.

“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds… bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 10:4–5

We have been spiritually empowered to preach the gospel, heal the broken, and resist evil. This is not just theology — it’s a call to live as Christ’s victorious ambassadors on earth.

Jesus didn’t just defeat our enemies — He equipped us to walk in that victory. Wherever you go, don’t be afraid to speak the truth of the gospel. Boldly serve, teach, and love others knowing that you carry the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead.

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ…”
— 2 Corinthians 2:14

May the Lord bless and empower you as you live out your calling in Christ.

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What Are Fists? (Mark 14:65)

Question:

What kind of beatings did Jesus endure—specifically the “fists” mentioned in Scripture?

Answer:

Mark 14:65

“Then some began to spit at Him; they blindfolded Him, struck Him with their fists, and said, ‘Prophesy!’ And the guards took Him and beat Him.”

This moment describes physical and verbal abuse that Jesus faced during His unjust trial. Yes—Jesus was punched, spat on, mocked, and beaten. These were not just symbolic gestures of suffering; they were real, brutal assaults endured by the Son of God.

Many people are familiar with the fact that Jesus was scourged—whipped severely—by Roman soldiers (John 19:1):

“Then Pilate took Jesus and had Him flogged.”

And He was spat on again during His torture:
Mark 15:19 says:

“Again and again they struck Him on the head with a staff and spit on Him. Falling on their knees, they paid mock homage to Him.”

But often overlooked is the reality that Jesus was repeatedly punched in the face, and these beatings were so extreme that they disfigured Him beyond recognition.

This fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy is captured in Isaiah 52:13–14

“See, My servant will act wisely; He will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted.
Just as there were many who were appalled at Him—His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and His form marred beyond human likeness.”

This suffering wasn’t meaningless. Jesus endured it as the substitute for sinful humanity. He took upon Himself our punishment, fulfilling the prophecy of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53:

“But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.”
(Isaiah 53:5)

The harsh beatings were part of God’s redemptive plan. They remind us of the seriousness of sin and the immense love of God, who did not spare His own Son (Romans 8:32), but gave Him up to suffer for us.

Too often, portrayals of Jesus’ suffering in films or art soften the harsh reality. This can mislead us into thinking that the cross was a mild event. But the devil wants us to underestimate the cross, to see it as something ordinary or symbolic.

However, the Bible emphasizes that we were redeemed at a very high cost:

1 Corinthians 6:20:
“You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

The Danger of Disregarding the Cross

Treating the sacrifice of Christ lightly or casually is dangerous. It’s not just offensive—it’s spiritually destructive.

Hebrews 10:29:
“How much more severely do you think someone deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified them, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace?”

Jesus’ suffering should break our hearts. It should draw us to repentance, and lead us to live in gratitude and obedience, not indifference.

A Call to Respond

If you haven’t yet surrendered your life to Christ, don’t delay. This isn’t just about avoiding judgment—it’s about embracing eternal life, offered freely through Jesus.

John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Imagine missing out on that gift—not even because of the lake of fire, but simply being cut off from God forever. Isn’t that a loss too great to risk?

Revelation 20:15
“Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”

Jesus died and rose again to give you a new life now, and eternal life forever. Accept His gift. Don’t wait.

May the Lord bless you. ✝️

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