Question: As believers, is it acceptable for us to carry palm branches on Palm Sunday when entering church or walking in a procession?
Answer: Palm Sunday marks the Sunday before Easter, commemorating the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. This event is significant because it fulfills Old Testament prophecy and highlights Jesus’ messianic identity.
In Matthew 21:1-11 (ESV), we read: When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, “The Lord needs them,” and he will send them at once.’ This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, ‘Say to the daughter of Zion, “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.”’ The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!’ When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred, saying, ‘Who is this?’ And the crowds said, ‘This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.
In Matthew 21:1-11 (ESV), we read:
When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, “The Lord needs them,” and he will send them at once.’ This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, ‘Say to the daughter of Zion, “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.”’ The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!’ When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred, saying, ‘Who is this?’ And the crowds said, ‘This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.
This passage shows the deep significance of the event: Jesus is publicly acknowledged as the Messiah, the King prophesied in Zechariah 9:9 (ESV):
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey.
Theological Implications:
Messianic Fulfillment: Jesus intentionally fulfills the messianic prophecy, openly declaring His identity and mission.
Praise and Recognition: The people’s actions—spreading cloaks and waving palm branches—are acts of praise, worship, and acknowledgment of Jesus’ kingship. The palm branches symbolize victory and triumph (cf. Leviticus 23:40).
The Meaning of Hosanna: The cry “Hosanna” means “Save us now,” expressing the people’s hope for deliverance through Jesus.
Is it Scriptural to Celebrate Palm Sunday Today?
The Bible does not command or prescribe the celebration of Palm Sunday or any annual commemoration. The early church focused on the resurrection (Acts 2:24-32) rather than commemorative rituals.
However, celebrating Palm Sunday as a time to remember and reflect on Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy, His kingship, and the path to the cross can be a meaningful form of worship—if done with theological soundness.
Guidelines for Observance:
Proper Intent: Carrying palm branches as a symbolic act of praise and remembrance is biblically consistent. It parallels how the Israelites used palms to celebrate God’s deliverance (Psalm 92:12).
Avoid Idolatry: The palm branches must not be treated as objects with inherent spiritual power or used in superstitious practices (Deuteronomy 4:15-19).
No Magical Thinking: Using palms as talismans to ward off curses or cast out demons departs from biblical teaching and can lead to idolatry and syncretism.
Warnings:
Scripture warns against practices that substitute ritual for genuine faith (Isaiah 1:11-17). Worship must be in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24).
Relying on objects rather than God’s power is a form of idolatry (Exodus 20:4-5).
Conclusion:
While Palm Sunday is not a commanded celebration, it can be a valuable opportunity for believers to meditate on Jesus’ kingship, His fulfillment of prophecy, and the path to salvation. Observed with a correct understanding and devotion to God alone, it is a wholesome practice. But if it becomes mere ritual, superstition, or idolatry, it grieves God.
May we always worship Christ sincerely, recognizing Him as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).
God bless you.
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When we talk about “life”, we usually mean natural, physical life—the ability to breathe, grow, eat, and move. This life is shared by all living creatures—humans, animals, and plants. It is the life of the body.
The Bible confirms this natural life:
“The righteous care for the life of their animals, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel.” — Proverbs 12:10
This Life is the biological life God has given to living beings. It is necessary for survival, but it is temporary and limited to this earthly existence.
The Bible reveals a deeper kind of life called “Eternal Life”, which is best understood as eternal life or spiritual life. This life is not merely physical existence but a quality of life that comes from knowing God personally through Jesus Christ.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” — John 10:10
Here, Jesus contrasts the natural life with the abundant life that He gives—a life characterized by fullness, joy, and eternal significance.
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” — John 17:3
This verse defines eternal life not just as endless existence but as knowing God personally, emphasizing the relational aspect of Eternal life.
Anyone outside of Christ has physical life but lacks eternal life. They are alive in the body but spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1).
“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…” — Ephesians 2:1
Those who receive Christ are given eternal life, which transcends physical death.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” — John 3:36
Do you have eternal life in you? Is Jesus Christ truly a part of your life, or are you only alive physically?
Without Christ, life is limited to this world and ends with death. With Christ, life continues forever, in intimate relationship with God.
The Lord is coming!
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Luke 19:1–5 (NIV)
“Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy.He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd.So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.’”
Zacchaeus was a man of status, power, and wealth. As a chief tax collector, he worked under Roman authority, often viewed by his fellow Jews as a traitor and a sinner. Yet, despite his social standing and material success, he sensed something was missing and that “something” was Jesus.
Driven by a deep curiosity and perhaps a spiritual hunger, Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see Jesus. But when Jesus reached him, He said something profound:
“Zacchaeus, come down immediately.” (v. 5)
This call wasn’t just about coming down from a tree. It was symbolic. To truly receive Christ, Zacchaeus had to come down from his place of pride, status, and self-reliance. The tree represented more than height it represented everything he was trusting in besides God.
In Scripture, pride is consistently portrayed as something that separates us from God. The “tree” in this story can be seen as a metaphor for:
The pride of wealth (1 Timothy 6:17)
“Command those who are rich… not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God…”
The pride of position or authority (Matthew 23:12)
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
The pride of beauty or self-image (Proverbs 31:30)
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
The pride of knowledge or education (1 Corinthians 8:1)
“…Knowledge puffs up while love builds up.”
These things are not evil in themselves, but when they become obstacles to faith and humility, they hinder our relationship with Christ.
Luke 19:6 (NIV)“So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.”
Zacchaeus responded immediately and joyfully. That’s the essence of true repentance not only turning from sin, but also turning toward Christ with eagerness and surrender. His humility led to transformation:
Luke 19:8 (NIV)“Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”
This wasn’t to earn salvation, but a fruit of his salvation public sign of his changed heart. According to Old Testament law, restitution for fraud required repayment plus one-fifth (Leviticus 6:1–5). Zacchaeus went far beyond that fourfold showing genuine repentance and renewal.
Jesus then declares:
Luke 19:9–10 (NIV)“Today salvation has come to this house… For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”
Salvation didn’t come because Zacchaeus gave money or made restitution. Those were signs of the real work of grace that had already taken place. He was found by Christ, and in response, he laid everything down including his pride.
Many today are still sitting in their own “sycamore trees” elevated by pride, achievements, or self-sufficiency. But Jesus calls each of us to come down. He wants to abide in our hearts, but we must first humble ourselves.
James 4:6 (NIV)“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
Let this story remind us that no one is too lost, too rich, or too sinful to encounter Jesus. But the way to Him is through humility. Only when we “come down” spiritually, emotionally, and mentally can we experience the joy of true fellowship with Christ.
“Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:5)
He is still calling. Will you come down?
In Zechariah 10:1, it says:
“Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the spring rains, for the Lord makes clouds, and he gives them showers of rain, to everyone vegetation in the field.”
This verse highlights the importance of praying in the right season. God’s providence is tied to the natural order and timing He has established (Genesis 8:22). Asking for rain during the rainy season aligns with His created rhythm and reflects faith in His timing.
Why does the scripture specify praying for rain during the spring rains and not during the dry season? Because the spring rains are the appointed time for rain. If rain fails to come then, it is an extraordinary situation that calls for prayer (James 5:17-18). But praying for rain during the dry season, when it is naturally less expected, is less effective because it is outside God’s ordained time.
This principle applies broadly to prayer and God’s blessings: there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Praying in alignment with God’s timing is crucial for effective prayers.
For example:
When you pray for the right things in God’s appointed season, He responds with mercy and grace (Psalm 145:8-9). Even if answers seem delayed, God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and His delays are for our good (Romans 8:28).
If you are in the right season but don’t yet see results, be patient and trust God’s promises (Hebrews 6:12). He will strengthen you daily (Isaiah 40:31).
Salvation also has its appointed season—and that season is now.
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 says:
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
This underscores the urgency of responding to God’s grace. Salvation is a present reality offered through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), but this opportunity will not last forever. Scripture warns that a time will come when the door of grace closes (Hebrews 10:26-27) and forgiveness is no longer available (Ecclesiastes 11:3).
Many today ignore God’s warnings about sin (Romans 1:18-32) and reject His offer of salvation. But God’s patience is not infinite (2 Peter 3:9), and judgment will come for those who persist in rebellion (Hebrews 10:31).
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 shows how God sent prophets to warn His people, but they rejected them until His wrath came and no remedy remained. This reminds us that ignoring God’s timing and warnings leads to judgment.
Pray in accordance with God’s timing, understanding the season you are in. Seek God’s guidance, protection, and provision relevant to your stage in life. Above all, respond to the urgent call of salvation today while God’s grace is available.
May the Lord help us discern the right seasons and respond faithfully.
Question: Between Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to see the risen Lord Jesus? Luke 24:34 says Jesus appeared first to Simon Peter, but Mark 16:9 says Mary Magdalene was the first. How can these two statements be reconciled?
Luke 24:33-34 states:
“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together, saying, ‘The Lord has truly risen and has appeared to Simon!’”
This passage highlights that Jesus appeared to Simon Peter (also called Cephas).
On the other hand, Mark 16:9 records:
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”
This clearly identifies Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the risen Jesus.
There is no contradiction here because the passages emphasize different moments and theological meanings.
John 20:14-18 Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb and is the first to see Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the personal, relational nature of the risen Christ calling His follower by name.
1 Corinthians 15:3-8 Paul summarizes resurrection appearances:
“…that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…”
This passage emphasizes the historical reality and communal testimony of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Christian faith.
Have you personally encountered the risen Jesus? The resurrection promises victory over death and eternal life (John 11:25-26). As we live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), the question remains: where will you be when Jesus returns? The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16)—don’t reject it as foolishness.
May the grace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ empower and guide us always.
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST.
One morning, as Jesus was returning to the city, He became hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the roadside, He approached it to look for fruit. But despite its healthy appearance—full of leaves—He found none. Then He said:
“May you never bear fruit again!”Immediately, the tree withered.— Matthew 21:18–19 (NIV)
At first glance, this might seem harsh. Why would Jesus curse a tree for not having fruit—especially when it wasn’t even the season for figs (Mark 11:13)?
But Jesus wasn’t acting out of frustration. This moment was symbolic. He was using the fig tree as a powerful visual lesson for His disciples—and for us.
In biblical times, a fig tree in full leaf would normally signal the presence of early, edible fruit. If it had leaves, it should have had some figs, even if small or unripe. But this tree had all the signs of fruitfulness—yet it was empty. It looked alive but was barren.
This fig tree represents people who appear godly on the outside but are spiritually empty on the inside. They have the “leaves” of religion: church attendance, Christian language, even leadership roles. But when God looks deeper, He finds no fruit—no evidence of true repentance, love, faith, or obedience.
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”— Matthew 15:8 (NIV)
Just as Jesus expected fruit from the fig tree, God expects fruit in our lives. That fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Without this fruit, our faith is a facade.
Many Christians today live deceived lives—outwardly religious but inwardly unchanged. This is the same condition Jesus warns about in the book of Revelation:
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”— Revelation 3:15–16 (NIV)
Lukewarm faith is offensive to God. It’s better to be cold (fully apart from God and aware of it) than to pretend to be close to Him while remaining spiritually dead. Lukewarm believers are content with surface-level religion, but their hearts remain unchanged. That’s dangerous, because deception is worse than ignorance—it blinds you to your true condition.
God doesn’t want empty religion—He wants a real relationship. Jesus cursed the fig tree not because it failed naturally, but because it pretended to be fruitful. That pretense—hypocrisy—is what drew judgment.
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs,which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead.”— Matthew 23:27 (NIV)
It’s not enough to look the part. God sees the heart.
If we find ourselves living like that fig tree—impressive on the outside but empty within—then it’s time to change. God gives us the opportunity to repent and bear fruit. He is patient, but not forever.
“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”— Matthew 3:8 (NIV)
If you choose to follow Christ, do it with all your heart. Don’t settle for being “half-Christian.” If you’re going to be a believer, be fully committed. Jesus said:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”— Luke 9:23 (NIV)
Let’s not just carry the name of Christ—let’s reflect His character.Let our lives be filled with true spiritual fruit, not just leafy appearances.
Ask God to search your heart and make your faith genuine.Pray for the strength to live boldly and fruitfully for Him.And if you’re lukewarm, ask Him to set your heart on fire again.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… Instead he is patient with you,not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”— 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
May Jesus help us live lives of real faith, not fake appearances.May we be fruitful trees, not leafy deceivers.
God bless you
Let’s reflect deeply on the identity of our Lord Jesus Christ through Scripture.
Imagine a high-ranking person disguising themselves as a servant, wearing humble clothes beneath their status. Such a person would likely be mocked, despised, and rejected by others who don’t recognize their true identity. But if those who scorned him truly understood who he was, none would dare to disrespect or mock him; instead, they would honor and fear him.
This is exactly what happened to Jesus. Though He was crucified, His persecutors did not know His true identity. They assumed He was just a criminal or a mere prophet, but He is far greater — He is the Alpha and Omega, God Himself manifested in human flesh. Even the Apostle Paul acknowledges in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8
“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”
This “hidden wisdom” is the profound truth of Jesus’ divinity and incarnation — that God became man, a mystery beyond human understanding but foundational to the Christian faith (cf. John 1:14).
The book of Revelation reveals this divine identity clearly. In Revelation 1:8, God declares:
“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord God, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.”
The titles Alpha and Omega (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet) symbolize God’s eternal nature — He is the beginning and the end, existing outside of time. Jesus applies this title to Himself, making a clear claim to divinity (cf. Revelation 22:13).
Revelation 21:5-7 shows this Alpha and Omega actively working in history:
“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”
Here, God promises new creation and eternal life freely to all who believe. The relationship of God and believer as Father and child is profound — a divine adoption through Jesus Christ (Romans 8:15).
Paul describes this mystery in 1 Timothy 3:16:
“Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
The incarnation — God becoming flesh — is the cornerstone of Christian theology. Jesus is fully God and fully man, not a hybrid, but both natures united in one person (cf. John 1:1,14; Colossians 2:9).
Jesus also challenged religious leaders to rethink His identity (Matthew 22:42-46:
“What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The son of David. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? If David then call him Lord, how is he his son? And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.”
Here Jesus exposes a divine paradox: He is the descendant of David (human Messiah), yet David calls Him “Lord” — a title for God Himself. This reveals Jesus’ dual nature as both human and divine.
Knowing Jesus only as the “Son of David” or “Son of God” without understanding His full divinity limits our understanding of salvation. The Bible affirms that salvation comes through Jesus Christ, God incarnate, whose blood redeems us (Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7).
This truth can be difficult to grasp — just as it is hard to understand that God has no beginning or end (Psalm 90:2). But faith calls us to accept these mysteries by the Holy Spirit’s help.
Believing that Jesus is God in the flesh deepens our gratitude and reverence. It reminds us that our salvation is not from the blood of any mere man but from the blood of the eternal God who loved us enough to become human and die for us.
May the Lord help us all to grasp this profound truth and live in the power of Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega.
“In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple.” (Isaiah 6:1, ESV)
Do you truly understand where God’s dwelling place is? Yes, we know that God sits upon His throne—but where exactly is that throne located? Could it be underground? In valleys? In caves or dense forests? Certainly not! The Scriptures clearly state:
“I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up…” (Isaiah 6:1)
Therefore, we must recognize His true dwelling place so we may approach Him correctly. Otherwise, we may find ourselves worshiping in places where His throne is not present.
In Scripture, whenever you come across the phrase “high place,” it often relates to worship. Altars were commonly built on elevated places to offer sacrifices to God (see 1 Samuel 9:12–13; 1 Kings 3:2). These high places—like mountains—were seen as holy because God chose to reveal Himself there, not in valleys or caves.
Because God dwells in the most excellent, supreme, and exalted place. He is never found in lowly or profane settings. His very nature demands a throne that is high above all. Therefore, understanding this divine attribute helps us approach Him appropriately.
Here are five key “high places” where God dwells spiritually. Understanding them helps us approach Him in truth.
God’s throne is in Heaven—the most glorious realm above the earth.
“Thus says the Lord: ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool; what is the house that you would build for me, and what is the place of my rest?’” (ESV)
This is why we are confident that God, who sits in the highest heaven, will one day welcome us into His eternal dwelling. Jesus taught us to pray,
“Our Father in heaven…” (Matthew 6:9)
Even when Jesus prayed, He lifted His eyes upward (John 17:1). So when we seek God, we should have a mental picture of the Father in heaven above. From there, we await all good things—including the arrival of the New Jerusalem.
Among all creatures, only humans have been given authority and honor to be His dwelling place.
“What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him dominion over the works of your hands…” (ESV)
God does not dwell in animals or inanimate objects. His chosen temple is the human heart. This was made possible through Jesus Christ—the first man in whom God dwelt fully (Colossians 1:19). Without Christ, no one can house the living God.
If you are born again, remember: God dwells in you. You are His exalted temple. So honor Him with a pure life and spiritual worship.
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (ESV)
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” (ESV)
God is holy, and He dwells in purity—not in filth or darkness. He is perfect and without blemish.
“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.’” (ESV)
God is only found in those who love holiness. If we are impure while claiming to seek Him, we have not yet reached His high and holy dwelling.
“Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully.” (ESV)
Also read Psalm 15 for further clarity.
God is not weak. Everything that displays great power and majesty belongs to Him. When we approach God with faith in the impossible, we are reaching into His exalted realm.
Abraham believed the impossible and became God’s friend (James 2:23). Faith moves God more than human reasoning. He is drawn to our trust in what cannot be seen.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” (ESV)
Living by faith brings us into contact with the supernatural. That is His exalted realm. Reject doubt, and God will surely respond to your prayers.
Worship is not about mere rituals. True worship must be done in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). Our offerings must be our best—not blemished sacrifices. Our praise must be full of strength, like David’s undignified joy before the Ark. When we glorify Him, we must do so with all that we have.
He is worthy of the highest honor.
“Who is like the Lord our God, who is seated on high, who looks far down on the heavens and the earth?” (ESV)
Let us therefore acknowledge these realms of His exalted presence and worship Him rightly—on His high and lifted-up throne.
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Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us take time to learn and obey the Scriptures.
God holds us accountable for what we know (Romans 1:20; Hebrews 10:26-27). Pretending ignorance when you actually know the truth is dangerous because it is a form of testing God and rejecting His revealed will.
Biblical Example: In Mark 11:27-33, religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority. When Jesus asked them about John the Baptist’s baptism—which they knew was from God—they pretended ignorance out of fear. Jesus refused to answer their question because they were not sincere but testing Him.
Mark 11:27-33 “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men? Tell me!” They discussed it and said, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
This shows that when we come to God with questions or prayers but ignore what He has already revealed, we are essentially testing God and may receive no clear answers.
Moral Clarity from Scripture: The Bible clearly states what is sin:
When Scripture is clear, it is dangerous to keep doubting or asking God to confirm what is already revealed. Doing so tests God and may leave one spiritually confused.
Conscience and Divine Guidance: Your conscience, when aligned with Scripture, guides you in right and wrong (Romans 2:14-15). If your conscience and the Bible clearly say an act is wrong, do not expect God to contradict His own Word.
James 4:17 “Anyone, then, who knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.”
The Authority of Scripture: God’s Word is the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Bible is God’s clear and unchanging voice. If you want to hear God’s will, read the Bible instead of relying solely on dreams, visions, or human leaders.
Final Warning: Stop pretending ignorance about eternal truths like Hell, sin, and God’s commands. Don’t ask God to justify actions you already know are wrong, such as selling alcohol or engaging in immoral behavior. The lack of answers does not mean God is silent—He has spoken clearly through His Word.
May God help us to obey His Word and live in truth.
There’s a widespread misconception in the Church today that living a holy life means strictly obeying a long list of religious rules. The assumption is that holiness equals legalism, a form of spiritual bondage. But Scripture paints a very different picture. The Bible clearly teaches that “we are not under law but under grace” (Romans 6:14), and that our righteousness comes not from works, but by faith in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Yet this misunderstanding persists, causing many to view holiness as an impossible standard—something only achievable by spiritual elites or those under harsh discipline. But what if holiness isn’t about rule-keeping at all? What if it is a natural outflow of a transformed heart?
Understanding Holiness Beyond Legalism
Let’s begin with some natural examples:
If you accidentally touch a hot stove, you immediately pull your hand away—not because of a law you memorized, but because your body instinctively protects itself.
If something suddenly flies toward your eyes, you blink without thinking.
When startled, your heart races involuntarily.
These reflexes aren’t conscious decisions; they’re built-in responses designed to preserve your well-being. They happen automatically, not because of a written code, but because of the internal wiring of your body.
In the same way, when a believer has been genuinely born again and filled with the Holy Spirit, holiness becomes an instinctive spiritual response, not a burdensome obligation.
Holiness as the Fruit of Inner Transformation
True holiness is not legalism—it’s the evidence of a changed nature. Jesus said:
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Matthew 7:18 (NKJV)
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.
Matthew 7:18 (NKJV)
This means that what we do outwardly flows from who we are inwardly. When the Holy Spirit dwells within a believer, He produces the character of Christ in us. These are not forced behaviors, but fruits of His presence:
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22–23 (NKJV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Galatians 5:22–23 (NKJV)
This is why holiness isn’t about trying harder or following more rules—it’s about yielding more deeply to the Spirit of God.
Conviction, Not Compulsion
A Spirit-filled believer doesn’t flee sin because of fear of punishment or duty, but because their inner man is grieved by it. Paul describes this internal change in Romans 7:22–23:
For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind… Romans 7:22–23 (NKJV)
For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind…
Romans 7:22–23 (NKJV)
When someone truly walks with Jesus, sinful environments no longer feel comfortable. Gossip becomes as revolting to them spiritually as a stench is physically. They don’t flee sin because of legalism—they flee it because their new nature finds it offensive.
Holiness and the Work of the Holy Spirit
A life of holiness is not possible without the infilling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told His disciples:
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me… Acts 1:8 (NKJV)
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…
Acts 1:8 (NKJV)
That power includes the ability to resist sin and live a life that pleases God. Titus 2:11–12 says:
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age…
Grace doesn’t just save us; it teaches and empowers us to live righteously. That’s why someone filled with the Holy Spirit finds that holy living flows from grace, not toward it.
Why Some Struggle to Live Holy Lives
The root issue is often a misunderstanding of what salvation entails. Many have been taught that following Jesus requires no real surrender—that you can “believe” without repentance, without denying yourself, and without being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said plainly:
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. Luke 9:23 (NKJV)
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
Luke 9:23 (NKJV)
You cannot expect the fruit of the Spirit without the surrender of the flesh. As Jesus also said:
Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 (NKJV)
Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
John 15:2 (NKJV)
The life of holiness is not a selective commitment. You cannot give 1% of your life to God and keep 99% for the world and expect to experience spiritual victory.
Holiness Is a Willing Response, Not a Forced Law
When the Holy Spirit fills you, holiness becomes your desire. You won’t abstain from sin because “the rules say so,” but because your appetite has changed.
You won’t drink because the Bible says “don’t get drunk” (Ephesians 5:18); you won’t drink because the craving simply isn’t there.
You won’t commit sexual sin because “it’s written”—but because your spirit finds no joy in it.
You won’t gossip because your heart finds such conversations nauseating, not just forbidden.
This is the work of the Spirit, not of the law.
Spiritual Realities Are Spiritually Discerned
Paul wrote:
But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV)
But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
1 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV)
Only the spiritually reborn can understand that holiness isn’t a cage—it’s freedom. As Jesus said:
And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32 (NKJV)
And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
John 8:32 (NKJV)
Call to Action: Total Surrender
If you want to live a holy life, it starts with total surrender—not just believing about Jesus, but yielding your entire life to Him. This involves:
Repenting of all known sin (Acts 3:19)
Believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9–10)
Being baptized in water for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38)
Receiving the Holy Spirit, who empowers you to live a transformed life (Acts 19:2)
When you do this with your whole heart, holiness won’t feel like a burden. It will become your joy.
His commandments are not burdensome. 1 John 5:3 (NKJV)
His commandments are not burdensome.
1 John 5:3 (NKJV)
Final Encouragement
You don’t have to live under the bondage of sin or the fear of failure. Holiness isn’t about struggling to keep rules—it’s about walking in the Spirit. When Jesus becomes your everything, the world loses its grip on you.
Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)
Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)
Make the decision today: Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus with everything you have. You’ll be amazed at the power, peace, and freedom that comes from living a truly holy life—not by law, but by grace.
May the Lord bless you richly and fill you with His Spirit.