QUESTION: What is the message in
Proverbs 29:5?“A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.”
ANSWER:Proverbs 29:5 provides a cautionary message about the dangers of flattery.
In biblical theology, flattery is more than just excessive praise; it involves giving false admiration to someone with the hidden agenda of gaining personal benefit. The Bible warns against such behavior because it is manipulative and ultimately harmful.
Flattery is not given out of genuine appreciation but with the ulterior motive of seeking favor, position, or some form of reward. Proverbs 29:5 warns that when you flatter someone, you are essentially setting a trap for them:
“spreading a net for their feet” (Proverbs 29:5, ESV).
The net metaphor here is significant in biblical literature. A net, or snare, symbolizes entrapment and harm. In this context, the flattery is compared to a trap that entices someone to fall into it, leading to their downfall.
Flattery often involves overstating someone’s virtues, exaggerating their good qualities, or even keeping silent about their faults to make them feel good. This false praise is done with the goal of achieving something for oneself—whether it is to be favored, promoted, given special treatment, or to gain influence. The book of Proverbs warns that such actions are deceitful and will only lead to harm, both for the one who is being flattered and the one who is doing the flattering.
King Zedekiah and the False ProphetsA powerful biblical example is the story of King Zedekiah of Judah, who listened to the false prophets instead of the true prophet, Jeremiah. The false prophets flattered Zedekiah with lies, telling him that God would give him victory and protect Judah, even though their message was not from God. Jeremiah, on the other hand, spoke the truth, warning Zedekiah of God’s judgment. The king refused to listen, and as a result, Judah was destroyed, and Zedekiah’s life was ruined. His eyes were gouged out, and he was taken into exile (Jeremiah 34-41).
This story exemplifies the danger of listening to those who flatter for personal gain. The false prophets were more interested in maintaining their position of power by pleasing the king, rather than speaking the truth. The tragic result was that Zedekiah fell into a trap, leading to his destruction.
King Ahab and the 400 False ProphetsAnother biblical example is King Ahab, who was deceived by 400 false prophets who flattered him by prophesying victory in battle, even though God had already condemned him (1 Kings 22:6-23). Ahab refused to listen to the prophet Micaiah, who spoke the truth, and instead trusted in the flattering words of the false prophets. The result was that Ahab was killed in battle, showing the consequences of relying on false praise and ignoring the truth.
In Christian theology, flattery is viewed as a form of deceit that undermines genuine relationships. It distorts the truth and manipulates others for selfish purposes. Proverbs 29:5 serves as a reminder of the importance of truthfulness and integrity in our interactions. Jesus himself spoke against hypocrisy and deceit. In Matthew 23:27 (NIV), He condemned the Pharisees for their outward displays of righteousness while inwardly being corrupt, likening them to whitewashed tombs. This echoes the danger of flattery—it’s an outward show of praise that covers up true intentions, which can be harmful both to the individual and to the community.
Flattery goes against the biblical call for Christians to live with integrity, honesty, and love. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians about the need for sincerity in ministry:
“For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness.” (1 Thessalonians 2:5, ESV).
Paul emphasizes that his ministry was rooted in sincerity, not in manipulating others for personal gain. The same principle applies in our everyday lives: Christians are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and to avoid using others for selfish purposes.
The Bible does not only warn us about others who may flatter us but also cautions us about engaging in flattery ourselves. While it can be tempting to use flattery to gain favor or avoid conflict, Proverbs 29:5 teaches us that this is ultimately a deceitful practice that leads to harm.
Flattering others may seem harmless at first, but it can lead to destructive consequences, both for the one who is flattered and the one who flatters. When we flatter someone, we may be leading them down a path of pride, false security, or even destruction. In this sense, flattery is not love; true love speaks the truth, even when it’s difficult.
Proverbs 29:5 teaches us to be wary of flattery, whether from others or from ourselves. Flattery is a form of deception that sets traps, and in the end, it leads to harm. The Bible calls us to embrace truth, integrity, and sincerity in our relationships, as exemplified by Jesus and the apostles. Instead of using flattery to manipulate others for personal gain, we are called to love others honestly and sincerely, helping them grow in truth and wisdom.
May the Lord bless you with wisdom and discernment.
Print this post
(Proverbs 13:20) “Walk with the wise and become wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm.”
When we were children, our parents taught us to be selective about our friends. Interestingly, the criteria they used were not skin color, height, or health, but rather character and intellect. Children who were thoughtful and intelligent were encouraged to be close to us because we would be positively influenced by their behavior. On the other hand, those who were foolish—even if we played with them occasionally—we were disciplined for it. At the time, it felt unfair, but as we grew older and saw the lives of those children, we understood what our parents had seen and why it was necessary.
Similarly, in spiritual life, we are told: “Walk with the wise and become wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm.”
They are people who are saved and have the fear of God within them. Anyone who has trusted Jesus as Lord and Savior and continues to genuinely follow Him is someone you should spend time with. Being close to them will teach you about salvation, prayer, fasting, God’s love, the knowledge of His Word, and also how to witness effectively.
Even Jesus demonstrated this in His life. From a young age, He chose to surround Himself with people who would positively influence His spiritual growth. He did not spend His time with peers indulging in worldly games, parties, or sinful habits. Instead, He was close to teachers and spiritual leaders, learning from them and absorbing their wisdom until He became the greatest Rabbi Himself.
Luke 2:40-50
“The child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the favor of God was upon him. When he was twelve years old, his parents went up to Jerusalem for the festival, according to the custom. After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in the caravan, they traveled for a day and looked for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, ‘Child, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.’ ‘Why were you searching for me?’ he asked. ‘Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?’ But they did not understand what he meant.”
Some habits or qualities will never develop in your life unless you surround yourself with the right people. If a Christian spends most of their time with worldly friends—office colleagues, college friends, or neighbors—their spiritual life may suffer. Some only meet faithful servants of God on Sundays, avoid spiritual accountability, and yet expect to remain spiritually strong. This is self-deception.
We need to actively surround ourselves with people who will help us grow:
Without such guidance and spiritual company, the world’s influence can overpower us.
MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU.
Share this message with others. If you would like to receive Jesus into your life for free or get daily teachings via WhatsApp, join our channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10
Contact: +255789001312 or +255693036618
WhatsApp
QUESTION: What does Proverbs 10:25 mean?
“When the storm passes, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.”
ANSWER: This verse is well explained by the example that Lord Jesus gave regarding people who hear His words but do not act on them. Let’s read:
Matthew 7:24
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Returning to the Proverbs passage, you can understand who the wicked are:They are the ones who hear the gospel but do not obey it. They may claim to be saved, but the fruit of salvation is not visible in them. Spiritually, they appear no different from someone who has never known God. All these are called wicked. They are still in sin and have not been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Outwardly, they may appear holy. But when trials, hardships, persecution, or challenges for Christ come, they quickly fall back and act as if they have never known God, because they were not built on the rock. Some face not hardships but prosperity, and when comfort and success increase, they forget God and abandon faith, because they followed Jesus only for the trials. Some stop seeking Him after marriage, education, or promotions.
However, the person who hears Christ’s words and obeys them is the opposite—they are called the “foundation of eternity.” They will not be shaken by any wave, storm, or trial because they are built on the rock.
Be saved, receive forgiveness of sins, and then live in obedience and repentance so that you can always stand firm.
The Lord bless you.Share this good news with others.
If you want help receiving Jesus into your life for free, contact us using the numbers below the article.
Also, to receive daily teachings via WHATSAPP, join our channel by clicking this link >> https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10
Contacts: +255789001312 or +255693036618
The Lord bless you.
ANSWER: This proverb communicates a profound spiritual truth about the impact of leadership and societal morality. When wicked individuals rise to power—whether in political, religious, or social spaces—those who are righteous often go into hiding. It’s not always a physical disappearance, but rather a withdrawal from public visibility or influence due to oppression, fear, or marginalization.
This concept is vividly illustrated in the Bible during the reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel (1 Kings 16–21). Ahab, under Jezebel’s influence, led Israel into deep idolatry, including the worship of Baal. Jezebel orchestrated the killing of God’s prophets (1 Kings 18:4), and many of the faithful were forced to hide. The prophet Elijah, overwhelmed and discouraged, felt utterly alone in his faithfulness:
“LORD, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” (Romans 11:3, NKJV; citing 1 Kings 19:10)
However, God’s response reveals a deeper theological reality:
“I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” (Romans 11:4, NKJV)
This shows that even in times of great spiritual darkness, God preserves a faithful remnant—a theme repeated throughout Scripture (see Isaiah 1:9, Romans 9:27).
In our modern world, we see parallels: wickedness is often celebrated in media, politics, and even some religious circles. True holiness and righteousness can feel rare, and those who live by God’s standards may feel isolated. But we must remember that visibility is not always the measure of presence. Just as God had hidden His faithful ones in Elijah’s time, He still preserves His people today.
“For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9a, NKJV)
The latter part of Proverbs 28:28 is a message of hope and future restoration: “But when they perish, the righteous increase.” When God judges and removes the wicked, righteousness is no longer suppressed—it flourishes. This points toward both historical moments of revival and the ultimate future kingdom of Christ, where:
“The meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” (Psalm 37:11, NKJV)
Jesus echoed this in the Beatitudes:
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5, NKJV)
If you are striving to live a godly life—whether through modesty, sexual purity, honesty, or devotion—yet feel alone, remember: you are not alone. God has always had a remnant. Your obedience is not in vain. Continue walking boldly in your faith, knowing that:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” (John 1:5, NKJV)
A time will come when the influence of the wicked will cease, and the righteousness of God’s people will shine like the dawn (Proverbs 4:18). Don’t follow the crowd. Don’t be discouraged by the noise of evil. God sees, and He will exalt the righteous in His time.
Proverbs 28:28 – “When the wicked arise, men hide themselves; But when they perish, the righteous increase.” (NKJV)
May the Lord bless you and keep you steadfast in these last days.
Question: What does Proverbs 27:15 mean by comparing a contentious woman to “a continual dripping on a very rainy day”?
Answer: In Proverbs 27:15, the phrase “continual dripping” refers to water leaking through a roof during heavy rain. This vivid image is used to describe the discomfort and irritation caused by persistent, unrelenting water dripping inside the house. Living with a contentious woman, according to the Bible, is compared to this situation.
In Proverbs 27:15 (NKJV), “A continual dripping on a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.”
The key term here is “contentious” (Hebrew: medinah), meaning argumentative, quarrelsome, or disruptive. It describes someone who creates constant conflict and tension, particularly in a domestic setting. The comparison to a “continual dripping” highlights the constant strain and frustration of dealing with such an individual.
How so?
Living in a house with a leaky roof during a storm can be unbearable. The water drips persistently, and no matter how much you try to move your things to avoid damage, the situation remains unresolved. Over time, the frustration intensifies, leading to a desire to leave the house altogether. This is similar to living with a contentious person—especially a contentious wife in a marriage.
The Bible does not shy away from recognizing the damaging effect of constant strife in a marriage. In
Proverbs 19:13 (NIV), it states, “A foolish son is his father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like the constant dripping of a leaky roof.”
Just like a leaky roof, a contentious wife can undermine the peace and stability of the home, leaving the husband feeling helpless and distressed. Over time, this tension can lead to emotional burnout, and in some cases, separation or divorce.
The Role of Wisdom in Marriage:
King Solomon, the author of Proverbs, had a deep understanding of human relationships, particularly marriage. With his experience of having 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:3), Solomon was well-acquainted with the challenges and complexities of marital life. Through his writings, he gives wisdom on how to avoid or remedy the tension that arises from a contentious spirit.
The Bible’s teachings on marriage emphasize love, respect, and mutual submission. A woman’s role is one of support, respect, and gentleness. In the New Testament, the apostle Paul wrote in
Ephesians 5:22-33 (NIV), “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church… However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”
This passage points to the importance of mutual love and respect in marriage. A wife is called to respect her husband, while the husband is called to love his wife sacrificially, just as Christ loved the Church. This balance is essential for marital harmony.
1 Timothy 2:9-10 (NIV) gives further guidance to women, saying, “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 that a woman’s beauty should not be based on outward appearance but rather on a godly character—marked by good works and modesty. This is part of the broader call to godliness that includes a spirit of gentleness and peace, which are vital in fostering peaceful relationships.
1 Peter 3:1-6 (NIV) speaks about the importance of a gentle and quiet spirit for a Christian woman, saying, “Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.”
This passage speaks to the power of a wife’s conduct in influencing her husband’s heart. It also highlights that true beauty in a woman comes not from external adornments but from the inner character—a “gentle and quiet spirit,” which is described as “very precious in the sight of God” (1 Peter 3:4).
A quarrelsome spirit can be incredibly destructive, both to the individual and to those around them. In
Proverbs 21:9 (NIV), it says, “Better to live in a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.”
This verse reflects the wisdom of avoiding conflict that disrupts peace and stability in a home. A contentious wife, through her constant arguing, creates an environment of tension and discomfort, much like a leaky roof that will not allow for peace or rest.
The scriptures teach that marriage is designed to reflect the love, respect, and unity that God desires for His people. A wife’s role is to support her husband with respect and a gentle spirit. When a woman lives out these biblical principles, she contributes to a peaceful and thriving home. In contrast, a contentious spirit—like a leaking roof—can cause ongoing turmoil that harms relationships and disrupts peace.
By adhering to these biblical teachings, women can create an atmosphere of respect and peace in their homes, rather than strife. As
1 Peter 3:4 (NIV) reminds us, “The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit is of great worth in God’s sight.”
May we all seek to live in a way that honors God, fosters peace, and strengthens our relationships.
Be blessed
Answer:
A broker or middleman is someone who sells a product or service on behalf of another person and receives a certain commission or percentage of the profit earned from the sale. Alternatively, a broker may help find a market for someone’s product and, in return, earn a portion of the proceeds.
If this is the definition or understanding of brokerage, then the work itself is not sinful.
Even the process of buying goods at wholesale prices and selling them at retail prices involves a form of brokerage or intermediation. One purchases at a lower price and sells at a higher price, retaining the profit. In this sense, the retailer becomes a type of broker for the manufacturer or producer.
Therefore, brokerage is not sinful in and of itself, provided it does not involve any of the following immoral or unethical practices:
If a broker is assigned to find a client or buyer but intentionally inflates the price beyond what was agreed with the owner for the sole purpose of gaining excessive profit this is dishonest.
Likewise, if a client seeks a product or house, and the broker knowingly misrepresents its value or condition, offering something substandard at a premium price, this is deceitful and sinful.
Proverbs 12:22 (NIV):
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
Ephesians 4:25 (ESV):
“Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.”
Truthfulness is a moral obligation for all believers (Colossians 3:9). Any form of dishonesty, especially in financial dealings, is contrary to the nature of God, who is truth (John 14:6).
If a broker cheats someone whether by taking money unfairly or manipulating them out of their goods or rightful earnings this is a form of oppression or theft.
Micah 6:11 (NIV):
“Shall I acquit someone with dishonest scales, with a bag of false weights?”
Leviticus 19:13 (ESV):
“You shall not oppress your neighbor or rob him.”
God commands just and fair dealings. Exploitation, especially of the vulnerable or uninformed, is a serious sin in both the Old and New Testaments. Christians are called to love their neighbors as themselves (Mark 12:31), which includes treating them fairly in business.
Any kind of commercial activity, including brokerage, conducted within the church or place of worship, is inappropriate and sinful.
Jesus Himself demonstrated righteous anger when He found money changers and traders in the temple courts.
John 2:15 (NIV):
“So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.”
Matthew 21:13 (ESV):
“‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”
The church is a sacred space dedicated to worship, prayer, and fellowship with God. Commercializing it disrespects the holiness of God’s dwelling and distracts from its divine purpose.
Answer: Yes, if the income earned through brokerage is acquired honestly, without lying, cheating, bribery, or defiling the house of God, then it is acceptable before God and can be used as tithes and offerings.
Proverbs 3:9 (ESV):
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.”
Deuteronomy 14:22 (NIV):
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.”
God accepts offerings that come from righteous labor. What matters is not the type of work, but the integrity and heart behind it (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Answer: Yes, a Christian can work as a broker, provided they conduct their work with:
A Christian broker should be a witness of Christ even in the marketplace, reflecting biblical ethics and moral excellence.
Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV):
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”
Brokerage is not inherently sinful. It becomes sinful when accompanied by deceit, exploitation, bribery, or when done in a sacred space. If conducted with integrity, it is a legitimate and honorable profession for a Christian. Income from such work can rightfully be used for tithes and offerings.
May the Lord bless you as you seek to honor Him in all your work.
The account of Noah’s flood is one of the most dramatic events recorded in the Bible. It speaks of God’s judgment on a corrupt world, but a common question arises: Did this global flood destroy marine life, such as fish and whales?
Let’s examine the Scriptures closely.
Genesis 7:22 (NIV) says:
“Everything on dry land that had the breath of life in its nostrils died.”
This verse narrows the focus of destruction to two things:
In fact, the surrounding verses reinforce this:
Genesis 7:21 (NIV):
“Every living thing that moved on land perished—birds, livestock, wild animals, all the creatures that swarm over the earth, and all mankind.”
Nowhere in this passage do we see mention of aquatic life being destroyed.
Some might ask: If everything perished, why weren’t whales included?
The ark was built to save terrestrial animals. Genesis 6:19–20 tells us:
“You are to bring into the ark two of all living creatures, male and female, to keep them alive with you. Two of every kind of bird, of every kind of animal and of every kind of creature that moves along the ground will come to you to be kept alive.”
Notice: creatures “that move along the ground.” The command excludes sea creatures. There’s also no record of Noah collecting fish or whales. The text emphasizes that the animals came to him (Gen 6:20), which would be impractical and unnecessary for marine animals.
From a theological standpoint, God designed marine creatures to survive in water—more water wouldn’t threaten their existence. The flood, while catastrophic to land life, was a natural environment for them.
While the flood was a judgment by water, Scripture warns of a future judgment—not by water, but by fire.
2 Peter 3:6–7 (NIV):
“By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.”
Peter makes a critical point here: God’s previous judgment was through water, but the coming one will be through fire, affecting not just earth’s inhabitants but the cosmos itself.
2 Peter 3:10 (NIV):
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”
This speaks to total cosmic renewal and final judgment, unlike the flood, which preserved Noah and the animals.
Theological reflection is not merely for knowledge, but transformation. Peter concludes with a call to holy living:
2 Peter 3:11 (NIV):
“Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.”
Just as Noah walked faithfully with God and was spared (Genesis 6:9), we too are called to live in holiness and godliness, anticipating the return of Christ and the final judgment.
No, the flood did not destroy sea creatures like whales or fish. Scripture clearly limits the destruction to land-dwelling, air-breathing creatures. Yet this event foreshadows a greater judgment—by fire—that will impact all of creation. As believers, we are called to be prepared, living lives marked by holiness, reverence, and repentance.
May the Lord help us live in righteousness, awaiting His return. Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus.
To understand this statement, we must explore the broader context in Matthew 23:16–22, where Jesus addresses the religious hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes—the Jewish religious leaders of His time.
“Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is obliged to perform it.’ Fools and blind! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold?” (Matthew 23:16–17, NKJV)
The Pharisees had developed a twisted hierarchy of oaths, where swearing by certain religious objects was binding, but others were not. They claimed that if someone swore by the gold of the temple or by the offering on the altar, the oath was binding. But swearing by the temple or the altar itself wasn’t binding.
Jesus rebukes this distorted logic:
“Which is greater, the gift or the altar that sanctifies the gift?” (Matthew 23:19, NKJV)
He then corrects their thinking:
“Therefore he who swears by the altar, swears by it and by all things on it. He who swears by the temple, swears by it and by Him who dwells in it. And he who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by Him who sits on it.” (Matthew 23:20–22, NKJV)
Jesus was not teaching that people should swear oaths. In fact, in Matthew 5:33–37, He explicitly forbids the practice of oath-taking:
“But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool… But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:34–37, NKJV)
This teaching is echoed by the Apostle James:
“But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No,’ lest you fall into judgment.” (James 5:12, NKJV)
So, in Matthew 23, Jesus is not validating oaths, but rather exposing the Pharisees’ hypocrisy. They valued material offerings (like gold and sacrifices) more than the sacred spaces (like the temple and altar) that represented God’s presence.
By teaching that an oath by gold was binding but not one by the temple, the Pharisees revealed their materialism and greed. They elevated gifts above the Giver, and offerings above the sanctified place of worship.
This was a form of religious manipulation, turning sacred practices into means of profit. Jesus saw through it and called them “blind guides” (v. 16), “fools”, and “hypocrites” throughout the chapter (cf. Matthew 23:13, 15, 23, etc.).
This same issue appears again in Mark 7:10–13, where Jesus criticizes their use of the term “Corban” (a gift dedicated to God) as a loophole to avoid caring for their parents:
“…you no longer let him do anything for his father or his mother, making the word of God of no effect through your tradition…” (Mark 7:12–13, NKJV)
Their tradition allowed people to withhold help from their parents by claiming the resources were pledged to God. But Jesus emphasized that true obedience to God honors both God and His commandments, including the command to honor parents.
This same attitude is sometimes seen today. In some churches or ministries, there’s more concern when someone fails to give an offering than when someone fails to honor God through worship, service, or discipleship. People are often pressured to fulfill financial pledges, while spiritual neglect is overlooked.
However, Jesus teaches that God’s dwelling place (the church, God’s people, His Word) is more important than the material gifts given in it. Offerings are meaningful only because they are presented in God’s holy presence, not because of their monetary value.
When Jesus said, “He who swears by the temple, swears by it and by Him who dwells in it” (Matthew 23:21), He was pointing back to God Himself as the ultimate authority behind all sacred things. The temple is holy not because of its gold, but because God dwells there.
Thus, He calls us to honor what is truly sacred—not for personal gain or ritual tradition, but in reverence to God. And above all, He reminds us to speak truthfully, avoiding oaths altogether, and simply letting our word be trustworthy.
May the Lord help us to seek purity of heart over performance of religion.
QUESTION: I would like to understand the theological interpretation of James 1:13-17, especially the part that says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from abov
James 1:13-17 (NKJV): [13] Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.[14] But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. [15] Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. [16] Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. [17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
James 1:13-17 (NKJV): [13] Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.[14] But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
[15] Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
[16] Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. [17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
ANSWER: In James 1:13-17, the apostle James addresses a critical theological issue: the nature of temptation and where it originates. There were misconceptions among early Christians, and there can still be today, that temptations or trials come from God as a way of testing believers. James corrects this misunderstanding by making a clear distinction between God’s nature and the process of temptation.
God’s Holiness and Temptation (v. 13): James begins by saying, Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God,'” (James 1:13, NKJV). Theologically, this highlights the absolute holiness of God. The Bible is clear that God is pure, righteous, and untainted by evil (1 John 1:5). Because God is holy, He cannot be tempted by evil, nor would He ever use evil to tempt someone. This sets the foundation for understanding God’s character: God is not the author of temptation or sin. Rather, He is holy and good in all things (Psalm 145:17).
The Source of Temptation (v. 14-15): James then explains that temptation originates from our own sinful desires:
“But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed” (James 1:14, NKJV).
Theologically, this reflects the biblical teaching that sin is not God’s doing but stems from humanity’s fallen nature (Romans 7:18). When a person is drawn away by their own desires, it leads to sin, and when sin is fully grown, it results in death (James 1:15). This echoes the theological understanding of the
“depravity of man” (Romans 3:23),
where humans are inclined to sin because of their fallen state since the fall of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:6).
The Goodness of God (v. 17): In verse 17, James declares,
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17, NKJV).
This statement affirms that everything good and perfect in our lives comes from God. The term “Father of lights” refers to God as the Creator of the heavenly bodies, emphasizing His transcendence and unchanging nature. Theologically, this statement underscores God’s goodness and generosity (Matthew 7:11). God’s gifts are always good, and unlike the shifting shadows cast by the sun (which change with the seasons), God’s character is constant and unchanging.
God’s Immutability: The phrase
“with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17, NKJV)
points to the immutability of God. This means that God is unchanging in His nature, promises, and actions. In theological terms, this is referred to as God’s “immutability,” which is a central attribute.
Malachi 3:6 affirms this by saying, “For I am the Lord, I do not change.”
This means that all of God’s actions toward humanity are consistently good and reliable. Unlike the unpredictability of earthly things, God is always steadfast and faithful in His character.
God’s Goodness and Human Responsibility:
James 1:16-17, by reminding believers that “every good and perfect gift”
comes from God, contrasts with the misinterpretation that trials and temptations come from God. This teaching supports the theological understanding of divine goodness. God’s gifts are inherently good, and He does not use evil to test His children. When we experience hardship or temptation, it is not a test from God but the result of living in a fallen world and the desires that rise from within us.
Theologically, James encourages believers to see the goodness of God in all things, while also emphasizing human responsibility. Our desires can lead us into sin, but God does not tempt us—He only gives good, perfect gifts. The apostle’s message aligns with the broader biblical doctrine of God’s goodness and man’s moral responsibility (Romans 8:28-29).
Conclusion: James 1:13-17 teaches that God does not tempt us; rather, temptation arises from within our own desires, which, when unchecked, lead to sin and death. On the other hand, every good and perfect gift comes from God, the unchanging Father who is the source of all goodness. Understanding this theological point helps believers grasp the nature of God’s character, His constant goodness, and the responsibility we have in managing our desires. God is faithful in giving only good things to His people, and He remains unwavering in His love and generosity.
Be blessed.
James 1:5 (NIV)“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
In this verse, James highlights wisdom as an essential need not wealth, fame, or opportunities. This shows that from a biblical perspective, wisdom is foundational to living a fruitful, godly life.
Proverbs 4:7 (KJV) says:“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
This shows that wisdom is a primary pursuit in the life of a believer. In Scripture, wisdom is not just intelligence or life experience it’s the ability to live and make decisions that align with God’s will.
There are two kinds of wisdom mentioned in Scripture:
Worldly wisdom (James 3:15): rooted in self-interest, pride, and even demonic influence.
Godly wisdom (James 3:17): characterized by purity, peace, humility, and sincerity.
James directs us to pray when we lack wisdom. He doesn’t tell us to rely on education, instinct, or trial and error. Prayer is the biblical means of receiving divine wisdom.
Jesus Himself affirmed the generous nature of God in answering prayer:
Matthew 7:7–8 (NIV)“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
When we pray for wisdom with sincere hearts, we are acknowledging our need and dependence on God. This reflects the humility God desires:
Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV)“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
The phrase “without finding fault” (NIV) or “without reproach” (ESV) comes from the Greek word oneidizontos, which implies God does not scold, shame, or remind us of past failures when we ask Him for wisdom.
This contrasts with human nature. Often, when we ask people for help, they may criticize us, question our worthiness, or refer to our past mistakes. But God doesn’t do that. He welcomes us when we come in humility and faith.
This ties into the grace of God. God gives out of His nature, not our performance:
Romans 11:6 (NIV)“And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.”
Thus, when we ask for wisdom, God responds graciously and generously without any judgment or blame.
James emphasizes in the next few verses that faith is essential when we ask:
James 1:6–8 (NIV)“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
This teaches us that faith isn’t optional in prayer it is the channel through which divine resources flow. Without faith, prayer becomes ineffective.
Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
When asking God for wisdom, be intentional. Instead of praying vaguely “God, give me wisdom” identify the area where you seek His insight:
Wisdom to interpret Scripture
Wisdom to handle relationships
Wisdom in your calling or ministry
Wisdom in business, parenting, or decision-making
As seen in Solomon’s prayer in 1 Kings 3:9, when he asked specifically for discernment to govern the people, God was pleased and answered generously.
1 Kings 3:12 (NIV)“I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart…”
James 1:5 is a powerful reminder of God’s readiness to help His children with what matters most: wisdom. We are invited to come boldly, ask sincerely, and believe confidently.
God is generous, He doesn’t rebuke, and He answers. As long as we ask in faith, without doubting, we can be sure we will receive.
Let this be your encouragement:You don’t have to be perfect to ask God for help. You just need to trust Him. He is not like people He won’t shame you. He gives freely and lovingly to all who ask.