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DRAW CLOSER TO THE LORD SO YOU MAY BECOME A PILLAR

Shalom, and welcome to our study of the Word of God.

Among the people who followed the Lord Jesus, there were four distinct groups:

The Multitudes,The Disciples,The Twelve Apostles,The Pillars.

1. The Multitudes

This was the first group. They would gather only to hear the teachings of Jesus and receive healing for their diseases. Jesus often spoke to them in parables, and after the teachings or healings, they would return to their regular lives.

2. The Disciples

This group consisted of about 70 or slightly more. They followed Jesus, but not everywhere. These were people who chose to serve Him in many of the places He went, and they were also sent out to preach the gospel.
Luke 10:1 (NKJV):
“After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.”

3. The Twelve Apostles

These were chosen from among the 70 disciples.
Luke 6:13 (NKJV):
“And when it was day, He called His disciples to Himself; and from them He chose twelve whom He also named apostles.”

The apostles were much closer to Jesus than the disciples or the multitudes. They shared meals with Him, walked with Him, and were privileged to ask for explanations of parables in private—something the other groups could not do.

4. The Pillars

This final group was the most intimate with Jesus. It consisted of three apostles—Peter, James, and John—who were considered Pillars.
Galatians 2:9 (NKJV):
“And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.”

(“Cephas” is another name for Peter – see John 1:42.)

These three had a special relationship with Jesus. Whenever He wanted to go alone for deep prayer or to reveal divine mysteries, He took only them.

Example 1: The Mount of Transfiguration

Luke 9:27–30 (NKJV):
“But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”
“Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray.”
“As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening.”
“And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah.”

Only these three saw this transfiguration and heard the voice from heaven saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Luke 9:35).

Example 2: In Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36–40 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, ‘Sit here while I go and pray over there.'”
“And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.”
“Then He said to them, ‘My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.'”
“He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.'”
“Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, ‘What! Could you not watch with Me one hour?'”

Jesus separated the other nine apostles and took only these three into His most sorrowful moment, showing their elevated spiritual intimacy.

Even after Pentecost, these three continued to be central. The Book of Revelation, filled with prophetic visions, was entrusted to John, one of the Pillars. This shows how close these men were to the Lord.

Why Were These Three Chosen as Pillars?

Because they loved Jesus deeply and wholeheartedly. God is not partial (Romans 2:11). The reason these men were closer to Jesus was their wholehearted devotion, meditation, service, and self-denial for His sake.

James 4:8 (NKJV):
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Peter boldly declared, “Even if all are made to stumble, I will never be made to stumble.” (Matthew 26:33) Though he had weaknesses, his love and courage set him apart.

James and John once asked to sit at Jesus’ right and left in His kingdom (Mark 10:35–37)—a request showing their great love and desire to be near Him.

John leaned on Jesus’ chest during supper (John 13:23–26), and it was to him alone that Jesus revealed Judas would betray Him, whispered in a voice only John could hear.

Their Intimacy Made Them Pillars

Their obedience, sacrifice, and eagerness made them candidates for deeper divine revelations. They were available for every mission Jesus had, even if it meant hardship. This commitment is what elevated them before God.

And this remains true today: if you desire to become a pillar in God’s house, draw closer to Him.

Revelation 3:12 (NKJV):
“He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.”

Let us not be content with merely being believers or disciples—let us strive to become Pillars in the Kingdom of God.

The Lord bless you.

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Maranatha!

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YOU THOUGHT I WAS JUST LIKE YOU.

“These things you have done, and I kept silent; you thought that I was altogether like you; but I will rebuke you, and set them in order before your eyes.”
—Psalm 50:21 (NKJV)

Greetings to you in the glorious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome to the study of the words of life.

Why is it that sometimes we are quick to sin, quick to gossip about our neighbors, quick to commit adultery—even though we claim to be saved or close to God, we still easily indulge in watching pornographic images online and engage in masturbation?

It is because we assume that God is like us. We think, “He understands—it’s just the normal weaknesses of the flesh.” Worse still, when we notice that God does not immediately punish the evil we’ve done—like the time we watched filthy images online and He remained silent, and the next day we did it again and still nothing bad happened, then later we committed sexual sin and yet life went on normally—we continue going to church, singing in the choir, praying, and everything seems fine. When we begin to accept bribes, and see that nothing bad has happened to us, it becomes a routine—even though we say we are Christians.

This continues year after year, and in your heart you think, “Even God understands these things, that’s why He hasn’t punished me.” You believe He is just like you. You think He sees evil the same way you do. You treat Him like a fellow human who overlooks these “small things.” You think He could never leave or punish you for things like that.

But today, listen carefully to what the Word of God says:

Psalm 50:16-22 (NKJV)
“But to the wicked God says:
‘What right have you to declare My statutes,
Or take My covenant in your mouth,
Seeing you hate instruction
And cast My words behind you?
When you saw a thief, you consented with him,
And have been a partaker with adulterers.
You give your mouth to evil,
And your tongue frames deceit.
You sit and speak against your brother;
You slander your own mother’s son.
These things you have done, and I kept silent;
You thought that I was altogether like you;
But I will rebuke you,
And set them in order before your eyes.
Now consider this, you who forget God,
Lest I tear you in pieces,
And there be none to deliver.’”

Look again at verse 21:
“These things you have done, and I kept silent; you thought that I was altogether like you.”
Do you see that when God remains silent about the secret sins you are committing, it doesn’t mean He is pleased with you!

You say you are saved, yet you harbor secret sins that you know are an abomination before God. But because God hasn’t spoken to you or struck you down, you’ve become comfortable. You think God is just like you and that He will always tolerate your ways. No! He says, “I will tear you in pieces, and there will be none to deliver.”

God doesn’t just say He will punish or correct you. No—He says He will tear you apart. And we know that to be torn is something a wild beast like a lion does. That means He will destroy you severely—so much so that you will not be able to stand again, no matter who prays for you or preaches to you. That is why He says:
“There will be none to deliver.”

This message is to those who have forgotten God—those who once belonged to Him, but became too familiar with Him, thinking He is just like them and ceased to fear sin before Him.

If you are one of them, then this is your moment to repent sincerely. You may have just a short time left before you encounter those claws of God. (Do not seek to experience the other side of God’s wrath—it is terrifying.)

If you’ve been secretly repeating sins that displease God for a long time and He has remained silent, it is better you stop now. Because His silence does not mean He is like you.

So take this moment to strengthen your salvation, and God will forgive you and withhold His wrath from you.

2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV)
“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”

Remember, we are in the last days. There’s no need for more proof that we are living in the season of the Lord’s return. The current state of the world says it all. This is not the time to have one foot in Christ and the other outside. This is the time to go all in for the Lord, because the Rapture can happen at any moment.

2 Peter 1:10 (NKJV)
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.”

May the Lord bless you.

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WHAT IS PASSOVER, AND SHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE IT

What is the meaning of Passover according to the Bible? And should Christians celebrate it today, as the Jewish people have for generations?

1. Understanding Passover Biblically

The term Passover originates from the Old Testament event in which God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. On the eve of their deliverance, God gave Moses specific instructions:

“Each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household” (Exodus 12:3, NIV).

The lamb was to be without blemish (Exodus 12:5), symbolizing purity. After slaughtering the lamb, the Israelites were told to apply its blood on the doorposts and lintel of their homes. That night, the Lord passed through Egypt to strike down every firstborn human and animal but when He saw the blood, He would pass over the home, sparing its inhabitants.

“The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you” (Exodus 12:13, ESV).

This event became the basis for the annual Jewish festival of Passover (Pesach), commemorating their divine rescue.

2. Christ as the Fulfillment of Passover

In the New Testament, Jesus is revealed as the ultimate fulfillment of the Passover lamb. The Apostle Paul clearly states:

“For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7, ESV).

Just as the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from death, the blood of Jesus protects believers from eternal judgment. His sacrifice on the cross is our deliverance from sin, death, and God’s righteous wrath.

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace” (Ephesians 1:7, NIV).

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1, ESV).

When God’s judgment comeseither now or on the Last Daythose who are “covered by the blood” of Jesus will be spared.

3. Should Christians Celebrate Passover?

The answer depends on how it is celebrated.

A. Biblical vs. Worldly Celebration

The modern, worldly view of celebration often involves parties, drinking, sensual entertainment, and indulgence in fleshly desires. This contradicts the spirit of true worship and remembrance. True biblical celebration, however, is marked by reverence, gratitude, humility, and a desire to draw closer to God.

“Let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28–29, ESV).

Even under the Old Covenant, Passover was observed with seriousness. It involved cleansing, sacrifice, and reflection—not revelry.

B. Christ-Centered Commemoration

Christians are not required to observe the Jewish Passover as a religious obligation (Colossians 2:16–17), because Jesus fulfilled its purpose. However, we are encouraged to remember and honor what God has done for us through Christ especially through practices like the Lord’s Supper.

“Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19, NIV).

We can reflect on the meaning of Passover with a focus on Jesus as our sacrificial Lamb. It’s a time for:

  • Self-examination and repentance (2 Corinthians 13:5)
  • Participating in the Lord’s Supper worthily (1 Corinthians 11:27–29)
  • Renewing our commitment to holiness (1 Peter 1:15–16)
  • Forgiveness and reconciliation (Matthew 6:14–15)

Celebrating in this spirit brings blessing, inner peace, and spiritual renewal.

4. The Danger of Worldly Misuse

If a believer uses this sacred occasion for worldly pleasure drunkenness, immorality, or mockery of spiritual truths they dishonor Christ and His sacrifice. They identify more with the world than with the cross.

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15, ESV).

“Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 11:27, ESV).

Instead of drawing closer to God, they invite judgment upon themselves.

Conclusion

While Christians are not bound to observe Passover as Jews do, we are invited to honor its fulfilled meaning in Christ. If we celebrate with reverence, reflection, and gratitude, it becomes a spiritually enriching experience. But if we celebrate in a worldly way, we miss the purpose entirely and risk bringing harm to ourselves.

May the Lord bless you as you seek to honor Him in all things.

 

 

Mada Nyinginezo

Je! kuna sikukuu za pasaka mbili? (Hesabu 9:11)

Easter ni nini?..Na je tunaruhusiwa kuisheherekea?

Ijumaa kuu ni nini? Na kwanini iitwe kuu?

KWA MIOYO YAO WAKAREJEA MISRI.

Je! Karamu za ‘Idi’ ndio zipo hizo tunazozisoma katika Hosea (12:9)

Ni muda gani Bwana Yesu alisulibiwa. Je! Ni saa 3 au saa 6?

HAPANA MFUPA WAKE UTAKAOVUNJWA.

JE! UTATOA HESABU YA NINI KATIKA SIKU ILE?

Rudi Nyumbani:

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Why Is Jesus Christ Important to Us Today?

 

One of the most vital responsibilities we have as believers is to deeply know Jesus Christ. This is not a light duty—it is the very foundation of our salvation. Without a true understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done, we cannot fully grasp our identity in Him, nor can we appreciate the grace we’ve been given. A lack of understanding leads many to despise this grace and ultimately to spiritual ruin.

“And until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”
— Ephesians 4:13 (ESV)

Knowing Jesus Is Not Just Head Knowledge

The call to know Christ isn’t about knowing trivial details—like what He looked like, what food He liked, or how He styled His hair. No. We are called to know the position and role He holds in God’s eternal plan. The more we understand this, the more we will love and revere God.

No one has fully comprehended the magnitude of Christ’s role, but as we grow spiritually, that understanding increases. The more we know Jesus, the deeper our reverence becomes.

The Significance of Jesus’ Death: The Case of Barabbas

Let’s reflect on a striking event from the Gospels that reveals the depth of Christ’s sacrifice.

Before Jesus was crucified, Pontius Pilate presented a choice to the crowd: to release either Jesus or a notorious criminal named Barabbas—a murderer and rebel (Matthew 27:16). Barabbas was rightly imprisoned, awaiting execution for his crimes. Everyone agreed he deserved death.

But in a shocking turn of events, the people cried out, “Release Barabbas!” And so he was set free—while Jesus was condemned in his place.

“Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted… they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas… They all said, ‘Let him be crucified!’”
— Matthew 27:15-22 (ESV)

Imagine Barabbas, expecting death, only to be unexpectedly released. He must have been confused: “Why me? I’m guilty!” Yet standing nearby was Jesus, bloodied and silent, crowned with thorns, the true Innocent One. Barabbas walked away free because Jesus took his place.

This is not just a story from history—Barabbas represents you and me. We were guilty, deserving judgment, but Jesus took our punishment. He was mocked, beaten, and crucified so we could live.

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

Grace Is Not Cheap—It Cost Jesus Everything

Jesus didn’t just carry our sins like a bag on His back. He became sin for us.

“For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV)

His humiliation raised our value. His rejection secured our acceptance. While Barabbas celebrated freedom, Jesus was scorned in his place.

Many today are unaware that the blessings they enjoy—life, breath, provision—are all because of Jesus Christ. Even those living in rebellion benefit from God’s grace made available through Christ.

Don’t Abuse the Grace of God

This grace we now enjoy will not last forever. A day is coming when the door of mercy will close, and the Church will be taken up (raptured). Then the Great Tribulation will begin—a time of God’s wrath upon the earth.

“Because you have kept my word… I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world.”
— Revelation 3:10 (ESV)

There will be no more preachers urging people to repent. Instead, judgment will pour out: rivers will turn to blood, incurable sores will strike mankind, and terrifying darkness will cover the earth. All these are described clearly in Revelation 16.

“They were scorched by the fierce heat, and they cursed the name of God who had power over these plagues.”
— Revelation 16:9 (ESV)

Do not think this is a fairy tale. Just as the world was shocked by COVID-19, these judgments will be far more severe. The sun will darken, the moon will turn to blood, and deadly plagues will strike the earth. There will be no safety, no hiding place.

A Stern Warning from Hebrews

“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment…”
— Hebrews 10:26-27 (ESV)

“How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God and has profaned the blood of the covenant?”
— Hebrews 10:29 (ESV)

Do not take this grace lightly. If you are not yet saved, the door of mercy is still open. But you must repent—not just feel sorry—but truly turn away from sin.

What Does It Mean to Repent?

To repent means to turn around. You abandon your sinful lifestyle and submit to Christ. This includes:

  1. Turning away from sin (Matthew 3:8)

  2. Being baptized in water in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38)

  3. Receiving the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9; Acts 2:4)

Do it with all your heart. Jesus is not just a figure in a story—He is our only hope of salvation.

Final Encouragement

If you’ve read this far, don’t just scroll or comment. Make a decision. Let this message stir your heart to change.

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”
— Hebrews 3:15 (ESV)

Jesus Christ is important—not only for the past, not just for the future, but for you right now.

May the Lord bless you and give you the courage to respond to His call.

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DO NOT QUENCH THE SPIRIT

 

1 Thessalonians 5:18-19

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit.” (NIV)

The Holy Spirit as Fire

The Holy Spirit is often symbolized by fire in Scripture. On the day of Pentecost, when the Spirit descended, He did not appear just as tongues—but as tongues of fire:

Acts 2:1-4

“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”

The appearance of fire signifies the purifying, empowering, and penetrating nature of the Holy Spirit. Just like fire refines and burns away impurities, the Spirit ignites our hearts, empowers our words, and burns through the works of the enemy.

What Are Tongues of Fire?

These were not literal flames but symbolic manifestations. The “tongues” resting on them were visible signs of the spiritual utterance that would come from their mouths. These were words empowered by the Spirit—words that pierced hearts.

Immediately after receiving the Spirit, Peter preached—and 3,000 people were cut to the heart and repented:

Acts 2:37-38, 41

“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’… Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”

This heart-piercing was not by human eloquence, but by the fire of the Spirit. Before Pentecost, Peter’s words had no such power. But after being filled, his words became like burning fire, igniting conviction and repentance in others.

Spirit-Filled Speech and Prayer

The same tongues of fire that burned through Peter’s words are the same tongues we use when we pray in the Spirit. Whether we pray in tongues or with understanding, the words empowered by the Holy Spirit become fire before God—they penetrate the heart of the Father.

Romans 8:26

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

Spirit-led prayer goes beyond human words, reaching into the depths of God’s heart. It is intimate, urgent, and effective.

Even in preaching, a Spirit-filled person doesn’t rely on clever speech or human wisdom:

1 Corinthians 2:4-5

“My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.”

Do Not Quench the Spirit

Paul warns us not to quench the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19). This means suppressing, resisting, or grieving the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. When we do this, the fire dies out.

Just like a physical flame, the fire of the Spirit can be smothered—especially by:

  1. Despising the Word

  2. Living in willful sin

  3. Rejecting the Spirit’s promptings

  4. Opposing God’s truth with human reasoning

What Puts Out the Fire?

1. Despising the Cross and Disregarding the Spirit’s Conviction

If the Spirit convicts you of sin, and you deliberately disobey, you are scorning His grace. This is spiritual arrogance.

Hebrews 10:29

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

2. Opposing the Spirit through Ungodly Living

Rejecting clear instructions from God’s Word is resisting the Spirit. For example:

  • On sobriety:
    Ephesians 5:18 – “Do not get drunk on wine… instead, be filled with the Spirit.”

  • On modesty and purity:
    1 Timothy 2:9-10 – “I also want the women to dress modestly… with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”

If we reinterpret or ignore these clear teachings to suit our desires, we are grieving and quenching the Spirit.

Acts 7:51

“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!”

Why We Need the Holy Spirit

Without the Holy Spirit, we cannot:

  • Pray effectively

  • Preach with power

  • Live a holy life

  • Walk in victory

  • Impact others for Christ

He is the fire in our hearts. If that fire goes out, all that remains is dead religion, empty words, and fruitless effort.

How to Rekindle the Fire

If you’ve quenched the Spirit, there is hope. The fire can be rekindled through:

  1. Genuine repentance

  2. Submitting again to God’s Word

  3. Asking to be filled afresh

Have You Received the Spirit?

If you haven’t yet given your life to Jesus Christ, begin there. Repent from sin, believe the gospel, and be baptized in His name.

Acts 2:38

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Final Encouragement

Let the fire of the Holy Spirit burn brightly in your heart. Speak the Word with boldness, pray with passion, and walk in obedience. Do not quench what God has kindled in you.

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
— Romans 12:11

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IS YOUR HEART UPRIGHT BEFORE GOD?

(Based on Acts 8:9–23)

Shalom! What is your reason for following Jesus or attending church? Is your heart truly upright before God?

Motivation Matters to God

In the New Testament, we read about a man named Simon the Sorcerer, who practiced witchcraft and deceived many people in Samaria. He claimed to be someone great, and the people believed him, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great” (Acts 8:10). He amazed them with his sorcery for a long time.

However, when he heard the Gospel preached by Philip, he believed and was baptized. But here’s the problem: his inward motive wasn’t repentance or salvation—he wanted more power. He believed in Jesus not for the forgiveness of sins, but so he could perform greater miracles. He saw Christianity as a means to enhance his influence and sorcery.

Outward Acts Don’t Equal True Faith

Dear reader, confessing Jesus or getting baptized does not automatically mean you are accepted by the Lord. There must be an inward transformation—a genuine change of heart.

Simon had simply exchanged his “witchcraft cloak” for a “religious robe,” continuing his pursuit of power under a new disguise.

Let’s read what the Bible says:

Acts 8:9–23 (ESV)

9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great.
10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.”
11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic.
12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed.
14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John,
15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit,
16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.
18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money,
19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!
21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.
22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you.
23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.”

Today’s “Simons” in the Church

Many people today are like Simon:

  • Some are traditional healers or spiritualists who join churches and even get baptized—but not because they want Christ. They want more spiritual influence or to mask their true identity.

  • Some are politicians who join churches to gain public favor, not because they want to surrender their lives to Christ.

  • Others attend church because:

    • They’re looking for a spouse.

    • They think it’ll help them get jobs or wealth.

    • They want to show off their new clothes.

    • They’re lonely and seek crowds or entertainment.

    • They want prophecies or deliverance—but have no intention of repenting from sin.

A Litmus Test: Is Your Heart Right?

Just like Simon, these people may do religious activities—praying, giving, attending church, even getting baptized—but God sees the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7 says:

“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

You may deceive people, but you cannot deceive God. Jesus warned us that false Christs and false prophets would arise (Matthew 24:24), and they aren’t just those in the pulpit. Anyone who fakes faith or uses Christianity for personal gain is among those false prophets.

What About You?

  • Are you living in fornication or cohabiting outside marriage?

  • Are you still using profanity or lying?

  • Are you involved in corruption, gossip, or fraud?

  • Are you still holding onto secret sins?

If yes, then why do you call yourself a Christian?
2 Timothy 2:19 says:

“Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.”

 Giving Money Doesn’t Justify Sin

Giving large offerings while you continue in sin doesn’t impress God. You’re no different from Simon who tried to buy the gift of the Holy Spirit with money.

Peter rebuked him sternly:

“May your silver perish with you… for your heart is not right before God” (Acts 8:20-21).

There’s Still Hope – Repentance

If you’ve done these things ignorantly, there is still hope. Jesus loves you and is calling you to repentance. Repentance isn’t only for unbelievers—it’s for everyone, including pastors, prophets, and teachers.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says:

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

What Should You Do?

  1. Repent from all known sin.

  2. Turn away completely from those sins.

  3. Seek baptism in water (immersion) in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins.

As written in Acts 2:38:

“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

And John 3:23 shows that baptism requires plenty of water.

Once you do this with a sincere heart, God will forgive you, and you will become a true disciple of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will guide you in the rest of your journey.

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Final Word:

“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.”
—2 Corinthians 13:5

Is your heart upright before God?
Now is the time to make it right.

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PRAYER: THE TOOL THAT CONCEALS YOUR REQUEST

Prayer is the most powerful tool to bring someone into God’s presence quickly. As we know, anyone who comes before the Lord Jehovah has a high chance of having their needs met. The devil, aware of this, does not want anyone to reach that place. So, what he does is bombard people with distracting, demonic thoughts to prevent them from praying.

Some of these thoughts include:

1. “I’m Too Tired to Pray”

Before even considering prayer, the first thought that comes to mind is often “I’m too tired.” People start thinking, “I’ve been working all day, I haven’t had a chance to rest. I’m feeling feverish and sleepy, so I’ll skip praying today and rest instead. I’ll pray tomorrow.”

Others might say, “I’ve been serving God all day, from morning until evening. People are still depending on me for teaching. I have numerous meeting invitations, so I’m too tired to pray today.”

But our Lord Jesus Christ was even more exhausted than we can imagine, having served tirelessly, traveling from place to place. There were times when, after preaching all day, instead of resting, He made His disciples go ahead while He stayed behind to pray on the mountain. He spent hours in prayer not because He wasn’t tired, but because He understood the importance of prayer.

In Matthew 14:22-23 (NIV), we see Jesus’ intentional withdrawal for prayer:

Matthew 14:22-23

“Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone.”

Jesus’ commitment to prayer, even in the midst of fatigue, demonstrates His recognition of its power. Prayer was a priority for Him, even more than physical rest. The Bible teaches us that “man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4, NIV). Jesus knew that spiritual nourishment was as important as physical rest.

So, why should we allow the thought “I’m too tired” to replace our prayer time? Never let fatigue become an excuse to skip prayer.

2. “I Don’t Have Time to Pray”

Another lie the devil often plants in people’s minds is, “I don’t have time to pray.” People say they’re overwhelmed with so many tasks, too busy… I’ve heard many people tell me they can’t go to church or pray because they don’t have time. Even ministers of the gospel say, “I’m too busy with ministry to pray for myself. I have so many invitations for seminars in different places.”

But let me remind you of Jesus, who was busier than any of us. At times, crowds would press around Him, wanting to hear His teachings. But the Bible tells us He would withdraw to a quiet place to pray.

In Luke 5:15-16 (NIV), we read:

Luke 5:15-16

“Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

Even when Jesus was surrounded by great need and activity, He still made time for prayer. The disciples’ experience with Jesus was one of constant interaction with the crowds, but even they had to learn the importance of personal time with God in prayer. Jesus taught that we must prioritize our relationship with God over ministry activity. Mark 1:35 also reveals that Jesus rose early to pray, making prayer an essential part of His day, no matter how busy He was.

He did this because He understood that even the work He was doing needed prayer in order to succeed. It’s surprising to say we are servants of God, but don’t have time for personal prayer. We, too, need to withdraw and make time for prayer.

3. “Why Can’t I Live Without Prayer?”

Another lie the devil whispers is, “Why do I need prayer? I can manage my life without it.” While it’s true you can manage worldly things without prayer, you cannot manage your salvation without it.

You might be able to go to clubs, continue drinking, steal, live immorally, stay busy with work all without needing prayer. But if you claim to be saved and you don’t pray, you won’t be able to resist trials. Jesus Himself said, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation” (Matthew 26:41, NIV). Do you think He was joking? Do you think the devil will let you rest just because you’re saved? He will pursue you, and if you don’t pray, you won’t escape.

James 4:1-3 (NIV) teaches that the battles we face often come from unsubmitted desires within us:

James 4:1-3

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

Prayer is like fuel for salvation. Just as a car can’t run without fuel, your salvation cannot make progress without prayer. It is through prayer that we align our desires with God’s will, and in doing so, we find strength to overcome the desires of the flesh and the temptations of the enemy.

4. “I’m Not Sure My Prayers Will Be Answered”

Another demonic thought is believing that your prayers won’t be answered. You might think you’re wasting your time praying. But I want to tell you that all prayers are heard if you pray according to God’s will. It’s not about praying once and forgetting it; prayer is an ongoing part of the Christian life. Some prayers require repeated petitions—today, tomorrow, the next day, and so on. But Jesus assured us that any prayer offered in His name will eventually be answered.

Luke 18:1 (NIV) encourages us to persist in prayer:

Luke 18:1

“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”

Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV) further emphasizes the need for persistence in prayer:

Matthew 7:7-8

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Finally, there are people who believe they can find another way to communicate with God or get solutions to their problems other than through prayer. But let me tell you: Jesus has already given us the blueprint. There is no other way, no other method. Jesus Himself sinless and holy did not overlook the importance of prayer. He made prayer a central part of His life.

Sometimes He prayed with sweat, tears, and even blood, pleading until He was heard.

Luke 22:44 (NIV) shows us how fervent Jesus’ prayer was in the Garden of Gethsemane:

Luke 22:44

“And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.”

Otherwise, He would not have received anything. So how can we, who are imperfect, think we can live without prayer and still call ourselves Christians?

Hebrews 5:7 (NIV) reminds us of the power of earnest prayer:

Hebrews 5:7

“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”

Let’s not seek shortcuts. If we want to see God moving closely in our lives, now is the time to renew our commitment to prayer. The Lord told us to pray at least one hour a day. Let’s make an effort, fight through the distractions, and not allow the devil’s lies to rob us of our prayer life. Let’s not let a lack of time ruin our schedules, and let’s not rely on our own strength and wisdom to hinder our prayer life.

May the Lord bless you.

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WHY YOU NEED TO BE READY NOW, BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

Do you know what happened just before Noah entered the ark? God instructed Noah: “Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation” (Genesis 7:1, NIV). Then Noah, his wife, his sons, their wives, and the animals entered the ark.

As soon as Noah entered, God shut the door. This was not just a physical act, but a symbolic act of God’s sovereignty. God was in control of the timing of the flood, and it was His will to shut the door (Genesis 7:16, ESV). “The LORD shut him in” (Genesis 7:16, NIV) Noah didn’t have the power to open it again. Once God shut the door, no one else could get in.

However, here’s something surprising: the rain didn’t start right away. It didn’t flood the earth immediately. “The rain fell on the earth forty days and forty nights” (Genesis 7:12, NIV), but this occurred seven days after God shut the door. This delay serves as a powerful warning: even after the door was shut, the flood didn’t come immediately. There was still time for repentance, but that opportunity eventually passed.

The Door of Salvation Was Closed

This is where the theological significance lies. The door to salvation was shut by God, and it was only God who could open it again. When the door was shut, those outside realized too late that the opportunity for salvation had passed. Just as the ark was a place of divine safety, the door to salvation today is Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved” (John 10:9, NKJV).

Yet, once the opportunity is lost, it is lost forever. The judgment of God was inevitable, and once it began, there was no turning back. “The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2, ESV). Many people who were once indifferent or mocking Noah probably came to their senses and sought entry once they saw the storm clouds gathering. But their pleas were unanswered.

As the Bible states: “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8, NKJV). Jesus warned us that, like the days of Noah, people would be caught off guard by His return. “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man” (Matthew 24:37, NIV).

The Narrow Door

In Luke 13:24-28, Jesus says:

“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then He will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’” (Luke 13:24-25, ESV)

Here, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of salvation. “Strive” (Greek: agonizomai) means to exert every effort. The narrow door symbolizes the way of salvation through Christ alone (John 14:6). Just as Noah’s ark was the only place of refuge from the coming flood, Jesus Christ is the only refuge from the judgment to come. The door will eventually be closed, and no one can force their way in once that door is shut.

In verse 25, when Jesus says, “I do not know where you come from”, He is referring to the fact that those who were not truly His followers those who didn’t truly repent and believe will be shut out of His kingdom. Knowing Christ is more than just superficial acknowledgment. It means having a personal, transformative relationship with Him (Matthew 7:21-23).

The Foolish Virgins and the Closing of the Door

In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins, five of whom were wise and five foolish. The foolish virgins, who did not prepare for the coming of the bridegroom, found the door shut when they returned with oil for their lamps.

The bridegroom represents Christ, and the wedding feast represents the eternal fellowship with Christ in heaven (Revelation 19:7-9). The door that was shut symbolizes the final opportunity for salvation. The wise virgins were ready, but the foolish ones were left behind. Jesus ends the parable with the warning:

“Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matthew 25:13, NIV).

This teaches us that the time to prepare for Christ’s return is now. There is no second chance once the door is shut. Repentance and faith in Christ must happen before that door is closed.

The Rapture and the Imminence of Christ’s Return

The theological concept of the rapture is deeply connected to the parables of the door being shut. Just as the flood came suddenly, and people were swept away, so too will be the sudden return of Christ. The Bible says,

“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, NKJV).

The rapture (the event where believers are caught up to meet Christ in the air) will occur suddenly and without warning. As Jesus said in Matthew 24:42-44:

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him” (Matthew 24:42-44, NIV).

The rapture will be a time of separation: those who are ready will be taken, while those who are unprepared will be left behind. This is why we must be ready now, because we don’t know when Christ will return.

“Blessed is that servant whom the master finds so doing when he comes” (Matthew 24:46, NKJV).

Be Ready: The Urgency of Salvation

In the days of Noah, the opportunity for salvation came to an end when God shut the door of the ark. Similarly, today, the opportunity to receive eternal life through Jesus Christ will one day come to an end when the door to salvation is closed. When that day comes, it will be too late to repent.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV). The message is clear: now is the time to be ready. The door of grace is open today, but it won’t remain open forever. Just as in Noah’s day, the flood of judgment will come suddenly and unexpectedly.

Maranatha.

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WHO WARNED YOU TO FLEE THE WRATH TO COME?

Shalom. May the great name of our Savior Jesus Christ be blessed.

Welcome, let’s study the Bible together.

Matthew 3:5-10 (ESV)
“Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our father,” for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.’”

Look closely at verse 7: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” John the Baptist calls the Pharisees and Sadducees a “brood of vipers,” a strong rebuke indicating their hypocrisy and evil nature. Despite coming for baptism, they lacked true repentance and a heart change.

This question is critical: Who warned you to escape the judgment coming your way? They thought baptism alone was enough to avoid God’s coming wrath, but John exposes their self-deception. Baptism without true repentance—turning away from sin—is meaningless.

Repentance Means Change of Life, Not Just Ritual

John commands: “Bear fruits worthy of repentance.” This means true repentance is evidenced by actions—leaving behind sinful lifestyles:

  • If you were involved in immorality, stop it.

  • If pride ruled your heart, humble yourself.

  • If you lived in drunkenness, turn away from it.

Simply going through the motions of baptism without a heart surrender to God is futile. This is the message John the Baptist wanted the Pharisees and Sadducees to hear.

The Danger of Hypocrisy

The Pharisees wanted to use baptism as a religious ritual, hoping it would grant them salvation without a true heart change. This is a trap many fall into today: thinking baptism is a ticket to heaven regardless of ongoing sin.

However, the Bible clearly teaches:

  • “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19).

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

But repentance requires a genuine turning from sin, not just lip service.

Examples from Scripture

The people of Nineveh repented with their whole heart, and God spared them from judgment:

Jonah 3:10 — “When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.”

God does not forgive empty words but genuine deeds of repentance.

Call to True Discipleship

If you decide to follow Jesus, be ready to take up your cross daily (Luke 9:23). This means:

  • Leaving the world behind.

  • Resisting sin seriously.

  • Living a life fully committed to God.

Only then will you experience God’s power and blessing.

Final Encouragement

Do not be deceived—true baptism and salvation come with a changed heart and lifestyle. Otherwise, you risk bringing judgment on yourself instead of blessing.

May the Lord bless you richly.

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IF YOU DO NOT RECOGNIZE THOSE LIKE JANE AND JAMBRES IN THE CHURCH OF CHRIST, KNOW THAT YOU ARE LOST

If you read the second letter that Paul wrote to Timothy, starting from chapter 3, verses 1–9, you will notice how Paul begins by explaining to Timothy the events that would occur in the last days. He starts by saying:

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1, ESV).

Ask yourself: why did he say this? Paul said it because he foresaw a wave of people who would appear godly outwardly—those who seem like servants of God—but internally deny His power, leading many astray.

These people will only appear in the last days. They seem like servants of God and may even lead people in what appears to be truth, but behind the scenes, they reject the power of God.

So, what is this “power of God”?

The Bible tells us:

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18, ESV).

Elsewhere, Paul calls the Gospel the “power of God” (Romans 1:16). The Gospel that focuses on the redemption through the cross, bringing people to repentance, forgiveness of sins, and salvation—that is where God’s power truly lies.

Nowhere does the Bible say that God’s power resides in wealth, business, or magnificent buildings. Those things cannot grant eternal life. People of this nature will rise within the church, pretending to preach the Gospel, but they focus on their own agendas, ignoring repentance and the true power of salvation.

Some may even encourage religious rituals, such as reading rosaries or performing prayers for the dead, but when asked if they themselves are saved, they confess ignorance. Imagine a person like that—how will they enter heaven? They follow leaders who appear godly but deny God’s power.

Paul likens such people to Jannes and Jambres, who opposed Moses in the wilderness:

“Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and reprobate concerning the faith. But they will not make further progress, for their folly will be evident to all, as theirs also was” (2 Timothy 3:8–9, NKJV).

Jannes and Jambres were Pharaoh’s magicians, performing signs to oppose God’s messenger. The difference between them and Moses was not miracles—they could perform signs too—but the difference was the message. Moses came with the message of liberation:

“Thus says the Lord, let my people go, that they may serve Me.”

The magicians, however, had no message except to oppose and entertain Pharaoh’s court. Similarly, today, someone might perform miracles or signs but have no message of deliverance from sin—they are modern-day Jannes and Jambres, servants of Satan.

Paul warns that these are the very people appearing in perilous times. Examine your own spiritual life: have you grown closer to God? Are your relationships with Him deepening? If not, you may be under the influence of these modern Jannes and Jambres.

Moreover, these deceivers prevent people from turning to Christ and seeking holiness. They create distraction through signs and wonders, yet neglect teaching the truth of repentance.

Remember:

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… their works follow them” (Revelation 14:13, ESV).

Your wealth, religious leader, or worldly success will not accompany you—only your works matter. If your leader has guided you towards worldly pursuits instead of heavenly treasures, you alone will face your works at judgment.

Paul encourages us to test ourselves:

“Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified” (2 Corinthians 13:5, NKJV).

Do not wait until death to realize the wrong path. Awake from spiritual sleep and correct your life:

“Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light” (Ephesians 5:14, NKJV).

Maranatha!

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