The word “Hosanna” is of Hebrew origin, and it means “Save us” or “Save, please.” It is derived from the Hebrew phrase “hoshiya na,” which is a plea for deliverance or salvation. The term first appears in the Bible during a significant moment when Jesus entered Jerusalem. The people joyfully welcomed Him, shouting “Hosanna!” as they waved palm branches and praised God. This event is described in several places in the New Testament, including in John 12:12-13:“The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!'” (NIV) The same scene is also recorded in Matthew 21:9, Matthew 21:15, and Mark 11:9-10. Why Did the People Use the Word “Hosanna”? The question arises: why did the people shout “Hosanna” instead of saying something else, like “Welcome, O Messiah” or “Come, O Savior”? The reason is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and their expectations of the Messiah. At the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry, the Jewish people were living under Roman rule. The Roman Empire, under Emperor Caesar, was the dominant power controlling much of the known world, including Israel. The Jewish people, therefore, lived as subjects of a foreign empire, paying taxes to Caesar and under political oppression. As a result, they eagerly awaited the arrival of the Messiah, who they believed would deliver them from this oppressive rule, restore their kingdom, and establish a reign of peace and righteousness. In Zechariah 14:3, the prophecy speaks of a time when the Lord will fight against the nations on behalf of Israel:“Then the Lord will go out and fight against those nations, as He fights on a day of battle.” (NIV) This prophecy and others led the Jewish people to anticipate a Messiah who would deliver them from their political and military enemies, including the Romans. Thus, when the people saw Jesus entering Jerusalem, many of them believed He was the fulfillment of these prophecies. They believed He was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel from Roman oppression. That’s why they shouted “Hosanna” — they were calling out to Jesus to “Save us, please!” They expected Him to establish an earthly kingdom and free them from their political enemies. Theological Significance of “Hosanna” in Jesus’ Entry The people, including His disciples, thought Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem signified the beginning of the physical salvation they had longed for. In fact, shortly after His resurrection, the disciples asked Jesus in Acts 1:6:“Then they gathered around Him and asked Him, ‘Lord, are You at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?'” (NIV) They still expected a political kingdom to be established. However, Jesus’ answer in Acts 1:7-8 reveals that the kingdom He was establishing was not of this world:“He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.'” (NIV) Jesus came to bring spiritual salvation, not to immediately overthrow the Roman Empire. His kingdom was not a political one, but a spiritual one, open to all who believe in Him and receive salvation through His death and resurrection. The Future Fulfillment of the “Hosanna” Cry While the people of Israel were calling out for deliverance from political oppression, the true salvation Jesus offers is from sin and eternal death. His mission was to bring redemption through His sacrifice on the cross, and His kingdom is a spiritual one that will be fully realized in the future. The Bible speaks of a time when Christ will return to establish His reign on earth, and at that time, the ultimate “Hosanna” cry will be answered in the physical sense. In Revelation 19:11-16, we see a picture of Jesus’ return as a conquering King:“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice He judges and wages war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on His head are many crowns. He has a name written on Him that no one knows but He Himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is the Word of God… On His robe and on His thigh He has this name written: King of kings and Lord of lords.” (NIV) At that time, the true deliverance of Israel will occur, and Jesus will fulfill all the prophecies concerning the Messiah’s reign. The people’s cry for salvation will be answered in its fullest sense when Christ returns to establish His 1,000-year kingdom of peace and righteousness, as described in Revelation 20:1-6. Conclusion: The Ultimate Meaning of “Hosanna” In the present day, “Hosanna” serves as a reminder of both the initial salvation Jesus brought through His death and resurrection and the future salvation He will bring when He returns to establish His kingdom. If you have not yet placed your trust in Christ, the door of grace is still open, and now is the time to receive His salvation. In Romans 10:9, the apostle Paul reminds us:“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (NIV) The cry of “Hosanna” is both a cry for salvation and a declaration of faith in Jesus as the Savior. Will you respond to this call today and place your faith in Christ? If so, you can have the assurance of eternal life with Him. Maranatha! (“Come, Lord Jesus”)
In biblical terms, “nations” refers to all the people groups of the world who are not part of the nation of Israel. In other words, the nations are the peoples outside of Israel, often referred to as “Gentiles” or “the Gentile world.” When God began His plan to restore the relationship with mankind, which was lost since the fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, He started with just one nation, Israel. This nation began with a man named Abraham, who was the father of Isaac, Isaac fathered Jacob, and Jacob (also called Israel) had twelve sons. These sons became the twelve tribes of Israel, and through them, Israel grew into a large nation. The people outside of Israel, those who were not descendants of Abraham, are referred to as the “nations” (Gentiles). The Bible mentions various people groups like the Egyptians (now modern-day Egypt), the Assyrians (modern-day Syria), the Cushites (located in Africa), the Chaldeans (modern-day Iraq), the people of India, the Persians and Medes (now in parts of Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia), the Romans (modern Italy), the Greeks (modern Greece), and many others. All of these were considered as the nations or Gentiles. For over 1,500 years, God interacted primarily with Israel alone. He did not engage directly with the other nations, regardless of their advancements or moral standing. The Ten Commandments were given to Israel, not to the nations. The entire Old Testament primarily focuses on the history and conduct of the people of Israel, their covenant with God, and their relationship with Him. However, it’s not that God had no plan for the nations; rather, His plan for the nations was always in the future. Just like a mother who must give birth to her firstborn child before she can have others, Israel was considered God’s “firstborn” nation. In this way, God first focused on Israel, but He always intended to bring salvation to the Gentiles as well, just not until the right time. In Exodus 4:22, God refers to Israel as His “firstborn” son:“Then say to Pharaoh, ‘This is what the LORD says: Israel is my firstborn son.” (NIV) But when the time came for the “secondborn” (the Gentiles) to be born into God’s kingdom, God began His plan for their salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus came as the Savior not just for Israel, but for the entire world. The shift from Israel as God’s chosen people to the inclusion of the Gentiles marked a pivotal moment in God’s redemptive plan. Paul writes in Romans 11:25, explaining that the hardening of Israel would continue until the full number of the Gentiles had come to salvation:“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in.” (NIV) From the time of Jesus’ death and resurrection to today, the door of salvation has been open to all nations. Anyone, Jew or Gentile, can come to God through faith in Jesus Christ and be part of the spiritual blessings once reserved for Israel. This concept of Gentiles being included in God’s promises was a mystery revealed in the New Testament. Paul explains this mystery in Ephesians 3:4-6:“In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.” (NIV) Through Jesus, God has opened the door of grace to all nations. The Gentiles, once considered outsiders, are now fellow heirs of God’s promises, having been grafted into the family of God through faith in Christ. However, this period of grace for the Gentiles will not last forever. Paul also warns that the time is coming when the Gentile era will end with the rapture, and God will once again turn His attention to Israel, fulfilling His promises to them. The “fullness of the Gentiles” will be reached, and Israel will be restored in the last days. Jesus’ second coming will be followed by a period of judgment for the nations, and then the establishment of His millennial kingdom. This time of peace and righteousness will last for a thousand years, where Jesus will reign over the earth. The urgency of this truth is clear. If you have not received Christ yet, now is the time to do so, because the period of grace is quickly coming to an end. If you are still outside of God’s grace, you are among the Gentiles, but you can be brought into the family of God through Jesus Christ. As it says in 2 Corinthians 6:2:“For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (NIV) Remember, all people who are not in Christ are still considered as “the nations” in this present age of grace. Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus)
When you travel to a new place—especially outside your native country—you encounter many changes. The language may be unfamiliar, the people may look and behave differently, the weather might be extreme, and even the culture might challenge your comfort. In such an environment, you may feel disoriented, unsafe, or simply not at home. This experience mirrors what happens spiritually when we are far from God. A Biblical Picture: Israel in Exile Consider the Israelites when they were taken captive to Babylon. This was not just a physical relocation, but a deep spiritual trauma. They were uprooted from the land God had given them, and in Babylon they found no joy or peace. Psalm 137 gives us a moving picture of this: “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.There on the poplars we hung our harps,for there our captors asked us for songs,our tormentors demanded songs of joy;they said, ‘Sing us one of the songs of Zion!’How can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land?”— Psalm 137:1–4 (NIV) These verses reflect a profound sorrow. The Israelites were not just physically in exile—they were spiritually displaced. Their captors demanded entertainment, but how could they celebrate when they were far from the place of God’s presence? What Does It Mean to Dream of Being in a Foreign Land? If you find yourself dreaming of living or wandering in a foreign land, it could be a spiritual message. 1. If You Are Saved (a Born-Again Believer): God may be warning you that you’re drifting away from His will. That dream could be a symbol of spiritual disconnection—living outside of God’s “promised land” for your life. It might mean that your faith is growing cold, and God is calling you to return, to remain in His presence and obedience. 2. If You Are Not Yet Saved: The dream may reveal your current spiritual state. You are like someone living in a land that is not your home. No matter how pleasant life may appear on the surface, there is no true freedom or peace outside of Christ. Sin brings separation from God, just as exile separated Israel from Zion. The Bible says: “What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death!”— Romans 6:21 (NIV) You may feel surrounded by the wrong influences—relationships, addictions, or habits that are not what God intended for your life. But the good news is that you don’t have to remain in exile. The Call to Come Home Just like the Prodigal Son who wasted his inheritance in a distant land but eventually came to his senses and returned to his father (Luke 15:11–24), you too can come back to your Heavenly Father. His arms are always open. Also, like Cain, who after killing his brother became a restless wanderer (Genesis 4:12), life outside of God’s presence leads to aimlessness and loss of peace. But today, you can make a choice. Jesus Christ invites all people—regardless of background, religion, or past sins—to come to Him. He offers rest for your soul and eternal security in Him: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”— Matthew 11:28 (NIV) A Step Toward Restoration: The Prayer of Repentance If you feel lost, far from God, or spiritually in exile, know that Jesus can bring you back into fellowship with God. He paid the price for your redemption through His death and resurrection. All He asks is that you turn to Him in faith. If you’re ready, you can say a prayer like this: Prayer of Repentance Lord Jesus, I come to You today knowing that I have sinned and gone far from You. I have tried to live life on my own, but I now realize that only in You is true peace found. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me new. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I open my heart to You—come into my life, be my Savior and my Lord. Thank You for accepting me. In Your name I pray, Amen. Final Word: Just as God eventually restored Israel from exile, He longs to restore you. You were not created to live as a spiritual foreigner. Come home today—and experience the joy of living in the kingdom of God, where you truly belong.
The story of Sodom and Gomorrah, as mentioned in the Bible, serves as a powerful warning against moral decay and divine judgment. These two cities were located in the region of Canaan, which corresponds to present-day Israel. Along with other cities like Admah, Zeboiim, and Lasha, Sodom and Gomorrah were situated in the Jordan Valley. However, these two cities are particularly notorious for their extreme wickedness. The Bible describes in Genesis 19:24-25 (NIV) how God destroyed these cities: “Then the Lord rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the Lord out of the heavens. Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities—and also the vegetation in the land.” In addition, the cities of Admah and Zeboiim were also destroyed, as described in Deuteronomy 29:23 (NIV): “The whole land will be a burning waste of salt and sulfur—nothing planted, nothing sprouting, no vegetation growing on it. It will be like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboiim, which the Lord overthrew in his fierce anger.” This illustrates that the destruction wasn’t just limited to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah but also affected the surrounding regions. The destruction came as a direct result of their extreme sinfulness, including their involvement in sexual immorality, violence, and a disregard for God’s commands. Theological Warning: While the cities were known for their sin, they were also known for their physical beauty and prosperity. Genesis 13:10 (NIV) describes the land of Sodom as lush and fertile, “like the garden of the Lord” (comparable to the Garden of Eden). This mirrors the allure of the present world, which, while outwardly appealing, is rife with immorality and sin. The warning here is clear: Just as Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed because of their wickedness, the current world is also heading toward destruction. 2 Peter 3:7 (NIV) states: “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.” 2 Peter 3:10 (NIV) continues with a stark reminder: “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 indicates that the current world, like Sodom and Gomorrah, will not last forever. It will be destroyed by fire in the day of God’s judgment. This should serve as a reminder to believers to live in a way that pleases God, and not to be swayed by the temporary pleasures of this world. The key question for each of us is, “How are we living?” Are we, like Lot, remaining faithful to God in a world filled with immorality, or are we, like Lot’s wife, turning back to the sinful world? Luke 17:32 (NIV) recounts the moment when Lot’s wife looked back at the burning cities and turned into a pillar of salt. Her decision to long for the past is a lesson about the dangers of looking back and desiring the things of the world when God calls us to be separate and holy. The Urgency of Salvation: As the Bible warns of the impending judgment, it also calls us to salvation. The message of salvation through Jesus Christ is clear: each person must make a personal decision to turn away from sin and accept the gift of salvation offered through Jesus. John 14:6 (NIV) declares: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” Today, we have the opportunity to make that decision to follow Christ and escape the coming judgment. The world may try to lure us with its pleasures, but we must remain focused on our heavenly calling. Philippians 3:14 (NIV) urges believers to: “Press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” A Final Word: The Bible clearly teaches that the end is near, and those who reject God’s ways will face His judgment. Just as Sodom and Gomorrah were examples of how God punishes sin, the current world will face a similar fate. The message is urgent: we must be ready for the day of the Lord and live according to His will. Have you accepted Christ as your Savior? If not, today is the day to do so. As the Bible says in Romans 10:9-10 (NIV): “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Now is the time to turn to God, seek His forgiveness, and commit to living a life that honors Him.
Shalom! Welcome to this moment of reflection on the Scriptures. Any kind of worldly education is a form of wisdom. Wisdom isn’t just about knowing proverbs, sayings, and idioms. When a person goes to study a certain field, whether it’s economics, medicine, or engineering, they gain wisdom in that area, which helps them treat patients, manage businesses, or solve problems. In the same way, gaining wisdom in spiritual matters, particularly the knowledge of God, follows a similar formula to worldly knowledge. When we pray for God to give us wisdom and understanding in knowing Him, it doesn’t simply fall into our hearts instantly just because we asked. It comes through both prayer and active effort. After we ask God for wisdom, we need to seek it diligently. Just as a student who prays for understanding must also study and prepare, so too must we diligently pursue knowledge of God and His Word, trusting that God will guide and empower us in our pursuit. The formula for gaining knowledge in both the academic and spiritual realms is essentially the same: we ask for God’s help, and then we take action. A student may pray for understanding in their exams, but if they don’t study, they will not gain the wisdom needed to succeed. The same is true in seeking spiritual wisdom. After praying for wisdom, we need to actively search for it, particularly through the study of God’s Word. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus commands:“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.”When you commit yourself to loving God with your entire heart, mind, and strength, and use your God-given abilities to pursue Him, His wisdom will flow into your heart. Through this, you will grow in your knowledge of God and gain the ability to discern and understand deeper truths as time progresses. The Lord will direct your paths, and you will grow in wisdom. What about Solomon? Did he receive wisdom the same way? The answer is yes! Solomon, after asking God for wisdom, did not simply sit back and wait for wisdom to be poured into him. No, instead, he sought it through study, reflection, and learning. The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 12:9-10: “And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright—words of truth.” (NKJV) Solomon, after asking God for wisdom, did not just wait passively. Instead, he diligently sought wisdom through studying God’s ways and life’s mysteries. He spent time thinking deeply and researching various topics, even to the point of exhaustion. He says in Ecclesiastes 12:12, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh.” (NKJV) Solomon’s pursuit of wisdom was not a simple task. It required hard work, deep contemplation, and a lot of study. He was physically tired from his efforts to understand and write down his findings. But this kind of effort was not wasted, as it led to profound wisdom that still speaks to us today. Have you ever sought God’s wisdom so diligently that your body grew weary? It’s important to note that the weariness Solomon speaks of is not the kind of tiredness from a short period of study or distraction. This is the kind of exhaustion that comes from a long, intentional pursuit of understanding, where your mind is filled with knowledge and your body feels physically drained from the mental effort involved. In the same way, as believers, we are called to seek God’s wisdom with diligence and perseverance, just as Solomon did. The pursuit of godly wisdom requires us to study God’s Word seriously, reflect deeply, and make sacrifices to know God better. As Proverbs 2:10 says:“For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.” (NIV) This verse shows that wisdom is not just an intellectual pursuit. It enters the heart and becomes something that delights the soul. When we seek wisdom from God, it transforms our hearts and minds, helping us to align our lives with His will. The Wisdom of God Starts with Salvation If you have not yet come to faith in Christ, it is important to understand that salvation is the foundation of true wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10), and accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior is the first step in receiving godly wisdom. The Bible says in James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (NKJV) If you are not yet saved, I encourage you to accept Christ today. Repent of your sins, believe in His sacrifice on the cross, and receive His forgiveness. Through Christ, you will begin to understand divine wisdom that will guide you in all areas of life. Conclusion The pursuit of divine wisdom is a diligent and intentional process. It requires prayer, study, and effort. Just as a student must work hard after praying for understanding, so must we seek God’s wisdom with all our hearts. As we engage in this pursuit, God will faithfully guide us, and His wisdom will fill our hearts, enabling us to live lives that honor Him. Let us seek His wisdom with all our hearts, for the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Maranatha!
Understanding the Phrase “Every Action Not Done in Faith is Sin” Romans 14:23 “But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because they do not eat in faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.” This verse is essential in understanding that actions made without a foundation of faith can lead to sin. Faith is not just a matter of beliefs but of the alignment of one’s heart and actions with God’s will. Without faith, even the smallest actions can become sinful, as they are disconnected from God’s purpose. The Context in romans 14:14, paul says “I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.” This passage points to a fundamental principle in Christian freedom: nothing is inherently unclean (cf. Mark 7:18-19). Jesus Himself declared all foods clean (Mark 7:18-19), a teaching that was further confirmed in Acts 10:15, where God told Peter, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” Theologically, this means that Old Testament dietary laws, such as the prohibition of eating pork (Leviticus 11:7-8), no longer bind Christians in the New Covenant. Christ’s death and resurrection fulfilled the law’s requirements (Matthew 5:17), and the New Testament teaches that believers are not bound by such ceremonial laws anymore (Romans 14:14; Colossians 2:16-17). Therefore, there is no longer any food that defiles a person. It is not what goes into a person’s body that makes them unclean, but rather what comes from their heart (Mark 7:20-23). Jesus said, “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man” This reveals the essence of true purity: it is rooted in the heart, not in external observances. However, many believers still struggle with this concept, clinging to the idea that certain foods are unclean. This is why the Bible refers to such believers as “weak in faith” (Romans 14:1), whether they are Christians or not. They may still be burdened by old beliefs or misunderstandings, which the apostle Paul addresses throughout this chapter. How Should We Respond to Those Weak in Faith? The Bible offers guidance on how to treat those who are weak in faith, particularly in Romans 14:1-3: “Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things. For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him.” Here, Paul teaches us that we should not engage in debates or force our views on others, especially on non-essential matters like food. The essential point is that God has received both the strong and the weak in faith. Do Not Judge Their Beliefs: We are not to impose our understanding of Scripture on others. If someone believes that eating pork is a sin, they should not be condemned for their belief. The New Testament emphasizes “do not judge” (Romans 14:4), recognizing that each person’s conscience before God is what matters. Do Not Cause Them to Stumble: It is crucial that our actions reflect love and respect for others’ faith journeys. In 1 Corinthians 8:9, paul warns But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.” If our actions—such as eating pork—cause someone with a weak conscience to stumble, we are sinning against Christ. Paul stresses in 1 Corinthians 8:12-13 that if food causes a brother to fall, we should avoid eating it altogether, out of love. Faith and the Freedom to Eat Romans 14:2-3 further elaborates on this idea of freedom: romans 14:2-3,“One believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him.” This shows that the “strong” Christian (one with a greater understanding of liberty in Christ) should not look down on or despise the “weak” believer, whose faith may still be bound by dietary restrictions. Similarly, the “weak” believer should not judge those who are free to eat all foods. Both are accepted by God, and thus, should be treated with mutual respect. Theological Implications: Theologically, this passage teaches that Christian freedom is meant to serve love and unity, not personal pride or division. The doctrine of liberty in Christ (Galatians 5:1) is one of the key features of the New Covenant. However, this freedom should not be used as an excuse to cause others to sin. In Romans 14:15, Paul warns: “But if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died.” When Is It Sin? If a believer with a weak conscience eats something they believe is sinful (like pork), they will feel condemned because they are acting against their belief. As Romans 14:23 says, “everything that does not come from faith is sin.” This means that when someone goes against their conscience, even if the action itself is not inherently sinful, it becomes sin because it was not done with faith. However, if a person gains a correct understanding through the Holy Spirit and Scripture—that there is nothing unclean—and acts according to that new knowledge, then their actions are done in faith, and they are no longer sinning. As 1 Timothy 4:4-5 reminds us, “ For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.” Application for Christians and Non-Christians If you’re a Christian and still believe certain foods are unclean, the Bible advises that you follow your conscience (Romans 14:23), but also that you grow in your understanding of the truth of God’s word. If your conscience forbids it, don’t eat, but do so while upholding holiness in all areas of life. If you are not yet a Christian (perhaps a Muslim or from another faith), know that Jesus loves you deeply and died for your sins. Come to Jesus as you are—whether or not you eat certain foods—and He will accept you. He is more concerned with your heart than your outward practices. Jesus calls you to eternal life, offering it freely, because He is the Savior of the world (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 1:15). A Simple Prayer to Accept Christ If you’ve decided today to accept Jesus, the next step is simple. Wherever you are, kneel down, and pray this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I accept You into my heart and commit to following You. Forgive me of my sins, and lead me into eternal life. Amen.” The Lord bless you greatly!
“And he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ And he said to him, ‘Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.’” Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome to this time of Bible study. As we know from Scripture, Jesus was not crucified alone at Golgotha. Two criminals were crucified alongside Him—one on His left, the other on His right. Their presence beside Jesus reveals something profound: that even in His suffering, Christ was among sinners, identifying with the brokenness of humanity. What shocked many observers, then and now, was the idea that someone claiming to be the Savior of the world would Himself be hanging on a cross, enduring shame and agony. To the natural mind, it seemed contradictory and confusing. And indeed, each of the two criminals had something to say to Jesus. THE FIRST CRIMINAL: PRIDEFUL AND MOCKING Luke 23:39 (KJV)“And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, ‘If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.’” The first criminal mocked Jesus. His words—“If you are the Christ…”—were not a humble plea but a taunt. That very phrase was a form of blasphemy. He doubted and dishonored Christ, demanding a miracle not out of faith, but out of arrogance. This mirrors many people today who are in the depths of hardship and suffering but confront God with blame rather than humility. They say things like: “If God is real, why am I suffering?” “If God loves people, why doesn’t He help His own followers first?” These statements, though they may sound like cries of desperation, often come from hearts hardened by pride and unbelief. Without reverence or repentance, such people cannot expect a response from the Lord. As with the first thief, Jesus gave him no answer. Isaiah 66:2b (ESV)“But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.” THE SECOND CRIMINAL: HUMBLE AND REPENTANT In contrast, the second criminal had the same circumstances—nailed to a cross, in pain, facing death—but a completely different heart posture. He recognized the justice of his punishment and the innocence of Christ. Luke 23:40–41 (ESV)“But the other rebuked him, saying, ‘Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.’” This man showed humility, reverence, and a deep awareness of his sin. Rather than asking to be saved from the cross or from temporary suffering, he asked for eternal life. Luke 23:42–43 (ESV)“And he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ And he said to him, ‘Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.’” He did not ask Jesus for deliverance from his earthly pain. He didn’t beg to be returned to his family, his business, or his former life. He simply asked to be remembered in Christ’s kingdom. That’s true faith—trusting Jesus not just with this life, but with the life to come. A MODEL OF TRUE PRAYER This second thief teaches us that what matters most is not whether our earthly situation changes, but whether our soul is right with God. His prayer was focused on eternal things, and that’s why Jesus responded. So many today pray only for material things—money, healing, jobs, relationships. But the most important prayer is for salvation. When that is settled, everything else follows in God’s perfect timing. Matthew 6:33 (KJV)“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” If you are struggling, suffering, or confused, do not let your hardship turn into complaint or blasphemy against God. Recognize that your suffering may be the result of sin, brokenness, or even a test of faith. But whatever the reason, come to Jesus humbly, asking for eternal life and a new heart. WHAT TO DO NOW If this message has touched you, it’s not by accident. Christ still loves you. You may be suffering today, hanging metaphorically on your own “cross,” but God is giving you the chance to respond like the second thief. Pray with humility:“Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I accept the consequences of my sins, but I ask for your mercy. I believe you died for me. Even if my life does not improve outwardly, I ask you to give me eternal life. Save my soul. I surrender my life to you today.” If you pray this sincerely, the Holy Spirit will fill you with peace and new life. Your desires will change, your mind will be renewed, and you will begin to experience joy that is not dependent on your circumstances. NEXT STEPS: REPENT, BE BAPTIZED If you have repented, now seek baptism—the Biblical kind: By full immersion (John 3:23) In the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38) This is the completion of your public confession of faith. Feel free to share this message with others. Do not remove the contact information or website below: www.wingulamashahidi.orgPhone: +255 789 001 312 May the Lord richly bless you.
The Holy Bible contains a total of 66 books, according to the canon accepted by most Protestant denominations. These books are divided into two main sections: The Old Testament – 39 books The New Testament – 27 books List of the Old Testament Books: Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi List of the New Testament Books: Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude Revelation Other Christian Bibles Some Christian traditions include additional books not found in the Protestant Bible. For example: The Roman Catholic Bible includes 73 books. It contains all 66 books of the Protestant Bible plus 7 additional books (known as the Deuterocanonical books) such as Tobit, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, and 1 & 2 Maccabees, as well as additions to Daniel and Esther. Eastern Orthodox Bibles include even more books depending on the branch, sometimes totaling 76 or more. These include other writings like 3 Maccabees, Psalm 151, and 1 Esdras. These additional books are referred to by Protestants as the Apocrypha, meaning “hidden” or “non-canonical.” Protestants generally do not consider them divinely inspired or authoritative for establishing doctrine. Why Do Protestants Use Only 66 Books? The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century emphasized returning to the Hebrew Scriptures for the Old Testament, which did not include the Deuterocanonical books. Reformers like Martin Luther questioned the authority and divine inspiration of the Apocryphal writings, resulting in their exclusion from the Protestant canon. The 66 books used by Protestants are widely recognized as divinely inspired and authoritative. As stated in 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV): “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Final Note While different Christian traditions have differing biblical canons, the 66-book canon used by Protestants remains central to their faith and practice. Believers are encouraged to read, study, and live by these Scriptures, trusting that they are the inspired Word of God. Shalom (Peace to you).
The Chaldeans were the ancient inhabitants of the city of Babylon, a prominent city in the region of present-day Iraq. The term “Chaldeans” is often used in the Bible to refer to the people of Babylon. These people are historically significant because they were the ones who captured the Israelites and took them into captivity in Babylon, as mentioned in various biblical passages. For instance, in Jeremiah 21:8-10 (NKJV), it says: “And you shall say to this people, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death. He who remains in this city shall die by the sword, by famine, and by pestilence; but he who goes out and defects to the Chaldeans who besiege you, he shall live, and his life shall be as a prize to him. For I have set My face against this city for adversity and not for good,” says the Lord. “It shall be given into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall burn it with fire.”‘” This passage refers to the judgment that was coming upon the city of Jerusalem, and how those who fled to the Chaldeans (Babylonians) could survive. Similarly, Ezra 5:12 (NKJV) recounts the story of the Israelites’ captivity under Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon: “But because our fathers provoked the God of heaven to wrath, He gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this temple and carried the people away to Babylon.” Before the Israelites were taken into captivity, the city of Babylon was already well-established. Interestingly, Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites, originally came from Ur of the Chaldeans, as described in Genesis 11:31 (NKJV): “Terah took his son Abram and his grandson Lot the son of Haran, and his daughter-in-law Sarai, his son Abram’s wife, and they went out with them from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to the land of Canaan; and they came to Haran and dwelt there.” Thus, the Chaldeans were not only the people of Babylon but also the ancestors of important biblical figures like Abraham. Chaldeans as Symbolic of Spiritual Babylon The Chaldeans in the Bible were a significant historical group, but there is also a spiritual aspect to their mention. In Revelation 17, the Apostle John speaks of “Babylon the Great,” a city that represents a powerful spiritual and moral force that leads people into error. Revelation 14:8 (NKJV) says: “And another angel followed, saying, ‘Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.'” This “Babylon” is not just a physical city but represents a system of false worship, idolatry, and corruption that leads people away from God. This is referred to as spiritual Babylon. Spiritual Babylon is a metaphor for any religious or societal system that distorts the truth of God’s Word and leads people into spiritual bondage. It seduces nations into moral decay and rebellion against God’s truth, much like the literal Babylonian empire seduced Israel into idolatry and captivity. The Bible warns that this system will ultimately fall, just as ancient Babylon did. In Revelation 18:2 (NKJV), the fall of this spiritual Babylon is further emphasized: “And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, ‘Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird!'” This symbolic “Babylon” represents not just ancient pagan practices but also modern systems of false religion and worldliness that oppose the truth of Christ. Today, this spiritual Babylon still exists in various forms, especially through false teachings, idolatry, materialism, and religious systems that stray from the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Is Spiritual Babylon Active Today? Yes, spiritual Babylon is very much active today. The influence of this “Babylon” can be seen in many aspects of modern society, particularly in false religions and even distorted forms of Christianity that do not adhere to the true gospel of Christ. Many people are still being taken captive by this system unknowingly, deceived by doctrines and practices that pull them further away from the true teachings of Scripture. As Revelation 18:4 (NKJV) warns: “And I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.'” This call to “come out” of Babylon is a call to reject falsehoods and seek the truth in Jesus Christ, embracing the true freedom found in Him. The Urgency of Salvation The Bible also reminds us of the urgent need for salvation, as the return of Jesus Christ is imminent. In Hebrews 10:37 (NKJV), we read: “For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry.” This verse emphasizes that the return of Christ is near, and we should not wait to make things right with God. The Bible teaches that salvation is available now and that we must take hold of it immediately. Romans 10:9-10 (NKJV) clearly explains how to be saved: “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” If you have not yet accepted Christ, it is important to do so today, without delay. Repent of your sins and trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. He offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who call upon His name. Conclusion In conclusion, the Chaldeans were the ancient inhabitants of Babylon, and while their historical role was significant, they also serve as a symbol in the Bible for systems of falsehood and spiritual bondage, which continue to impact the world today. The Bible warns against being entangled in the spiritual “Babylon” that leads to destruction. Therefore, it is crucial to respond to God’s call to salvation through Jesus Christ, as His return is near, and the time to be reconciled with God is now.