Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His grace, we have been given another day to witness His mercy. Let us take this moment to thank Him and reflect deeply on His Word.
In previous teachings, we saw how essential it is for every Christian to observe the Lord’s Supper and practice foot washing according to God’s Word. While foot washing is a simple act of service, the enemy has distorted its purpose, turning it into a vehicle for pride, lust, or worldly indulgence.
Jesus teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of God is measured by humility. Pride can block even the most devoted believer from entering heaven:
Matthew 18:3–4 (ESV): “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 18:3–4 (ESV):
“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Here, Jesus shows that salvation is not merely about knowledge or ritual—it is about a transformed heart. Humility, demonstrated even in small acts such as serving others, is a visible marker of genuine faith.
Foot washing is more than a physical act; it is a spiritual exercise in humility and service. Jesus modeled this during His ministry:
John 13:12–17 (NIV): “When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ he asked them.‘You call me “Teacher” and “Lord,” and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.’”
John 13:12–17 (NIV):
“When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ he asked them.‘You call me “Teacher” and “Lord,” and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.’”
Theologically, this demonstrates that service is inseparable from discipleship. A Christian who refuses to humbly serve fellow believers shows a lack of alignment with Christ’s example.
Satan works persistently to mislead Christians and rob them of salvation. He does this by:
Distorting righteous practices: He tempts people to engage in sinful acts under the guise of spiritual activity. For example, attending secular foot-washing salons, where lustful thoughts may arise.
Encouraging idleness in prayer and worship: Christians may spend long hours on social media, entertainment, or worldly pleasures, neglecting spiritual disciplines.
Targeting vulnerability: Even small compromises, repeated over time, can weaken one’s spiritual defenses.
1 Peter 5:8 (KJV): “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
1 Peter 5:8 (KJV):
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
Foot washing, when practiced correctly, strengthens humility and fellowship. When abused, it becomes a channel for temptation, sexual immorality, and spiritual deception (1 Corinthians 6:9–10, NIV).
Engaging in foot washing in worldly or inappropriate settings can:
Open the door to lust and immorality: Even a single act done improperly can lead to spiritual defilement.
Weaken family and marital bonds: People may become attached to the wrong relationships, neglecting God-given responsibilities.
Suppress spiritual growth: The light within diminishes, and the desire to pursue God may fade.
The Bible clearly warns:
1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (ESV): “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (ESV):
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Salvation is a personal and intentional turning to Christ, involving faith, repentance, and obedience. Acts such as humble service, foot washing, and baptism are outward signs of inward transformation.
If you have not yet been saved, or have been engaging in practices that lead to spiritual compromise, God invites you to repent:
Prayer of Repentance:
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner who has committed many wrongs and deserve Your judgment. Yet You are a merciful God, full of grace for those who love You. Today, I repent of all my sins, including acts that displease You.I confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, and He is the Savior of the world. I ask that the blood of Jesus cleanse me and make me a new creation. From this day forward, I commit my life to You. Amen.
Seek proper water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ as an act of obedience and forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38, NIV).
Engage in biblical fellowship: Attend a church that emphasizes teaching the Word and spiritual growth.
Practice humility and service: Participate in foot washing among fellow believers in a holy, God-centered setting.
Avoid worldly imitations: Reject practices that compromise your spiritual integrity.
Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV):
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Foot washing is a sacred act that symbolizes humility, service, and fellowship. Misusing it can open doors to sin and spiritual destruction. Conversely, practicing it with the right heart, alongside prayer, baptism, and obedience, strengthens your relationship with God and fellow believers.
Be blessed, and may your life be guided by the Word of God, leading you to eternal salvation.
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The Word of God—sometimes called the Scroll—is not just spiritual guidance; it is a medicine that heals the entirety of a person’s life: body, soul, and spirit. Unlike ordinary medicines, which may heal only physical ailments, the Word of God addresses the root of all human brokenness, including sin and spiritual death. Only God’s Word can bring eternal restoration (Proverbs 4:20–22, ESV: “My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them in the midst of your heart, for they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh”).
Before taking any medicine, one must understand its nature. If we do not know how a medicine works, we may reject it when its initial taste is bitter. Many medicines are difficult to swallow; they taste bitter, and some must be swallowed whole or else vomiting may result. Yet, after digestion, the medicine works to heal, and the initial bitterness is forgotten. Similarly, the Word of God has its own spiritual “taste” and process.
The Word of God is sweet to the soul at first glance, but it can become bitter when it begins to confront our sinful nature, challenge our comfort, or call us to obedience. Unlike ordinary medicine, which is bitter at first but sweet after digestion, the Word can appear sweet in the mouth but becomes bitter in the soul as it exposes sin and demands transformation.
John’s experience with the Book of Revelation illustrates this perfectly:
Revelation 10:8–11 (ESV): “And the voice that I had heard from heaven spoke again to me, saying, ‘Go, take the scroll that is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land.’ So I went to the angel, telling him to give me the little scroll. And he said to me, ‘Take it and eat it; it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.’ I took the little scroll from the hand of the angel and ate it. It was sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it, my stomach became bitter.”
Ezekiel also received a similar instruction from God:
Ezekiel 2:9–3:3 (NIV): “I looked, and I saw a hand stretched out to me. In it was a scroll, which he unrolled before me. On both sides of it were written words of lament and mourning and woe. He said to me, ‘Son of man, eat what is before you, eat this scroll; then go and speak to the people of Israel.’ So I opened my mouth, and he gave me the scroll to eat. Then he said to me, ‘Son of man, fill your stomach with this scroll that I give you.’ So I ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth.”
These passages illustrate that the Word of God is initially attractive and comforting, but once internalized, it exposes sin, calls for repentance, and demands action. The sweetness draws us in, but the bitterness challenges us to surrender fully to God.
Many believers experience only the sweetness of the Gospel—the joy of salvation, the comfort of grace, and the promises of God. They rejoice at forgiveness (Romans 5:1, NIV: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ”), love for sinners (John 3:16), and the riches of Christ (2 Corinthians 8:9).
Yet, for the Word to fully save, it must reach our souls and work within us, confronting sin and calling for obedience. This is the “bitterness” of God’s Word: it requires crucifying the self, taking up the cross, and following Christ fully.
Matthew 16:24–26 (ESV): “Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?’”
Those who reject this process are like seeds that fell on rocky ground (Matthew 13:5–6). They enjoy the sweetness of the Gospel but fall away when persecution, trials, or the cost of obedience arises.
True salvation is not merely emotional or intellectual. It involves practical obedience: loving Christ above family and self, and being willing to face opposition (Matthew 10:34–39, NIV: “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword… Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me”).
The Word of God must be “digested” fully to bear its healing power. Only by swallowing it completely—despite bitterness, trials, and spiritual discomfort—can a believer experience true transformation, sanctification, and eternal life.
The last days warn us against being lukewarm like Laodicea (Revelation 3:14–16, ESV). Complacent believers, who enjoy the sweetness of God’s Word but resist its demands, are warned that Christ will “spit them out.” To avoid this, believers must fully embrace the Word, obey its commands, and live a life surrendered to Christ—even if the world mocks, resists, or persecutes them.
The Word of God is the ultimate medicine: sweet to the taste, yet bitter to the soul until it fully transforms us. Only by fully embracing, internalizing, and obeying the Word can we experience complete healing and eternal life. The sweetness draws us in, the bitterness purifies us, and the result is a life fully restored in Christ.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you to swallow the full Word of God and be healed completely.
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Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Welcome once again as we study Scripture. Our highest daily responsibility is to truly know Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and discern what pleases Him, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:13 (NIV): “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” Similarly, Ephesians 5:10 (ESV) reminds us to “test what is pleasing to the Lord.”
Today, we will meditate on a powerful teaching of Jesus found in Matthew 12:30 (ESV): “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
If you read the surrounding verses, you will see that Jesus was responding to accusations that He cast out demons by the power of Satan. His words reveal a fundamental principle of God’s kingdom: there is no neutral ground in spiritual matters. Every person either aligns with Christ or opposes Him.
Jesus’ statement has two dimensions:
“Whoever is not with me is against me” – This is a declaration of loyalty. In the spiritual realm, neutrality is impossible. To refuse allegiance to Christ is to oppose Him.
“Whoever does not gather with me scatters” – This emphasizes the practical outworking of faith. Believers are called to participate in God’s mission, to “gather” by advancing His kingdom, spreading the gospel, and doing His work. To neglect this work, while having the opportunity, is considered resistance.
Some people argue: “I don’t believe in Jesus, but I live morally; I help the poor, I don’t steal, I abstain from alcohol. Will God judge me?” Others say, “I may not fully believe, but I love Christ and do not oppose Him.”
Theologically, salvation and alignment with Christ are not based solely on moral deeds, as Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) teaches: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Moral living is important, but apart from faith in Christ, even good deeds cannot place one in His kingdom.
By rejecting Christ—even if one performs morally good acts—one is spiritually opposing Him. The anti-Christ spirit is present in those who reject or avoid Christ’s authority (1 John 2:22-23, ESV).
Similarly, failing to participate in God’s work when given the opportunity is spiritually damaging. Jesus warns that passivity in God’s mission is equivalent to scattering His work. This is illustrated in Luke 13:6-9 (NIV):
“Then he told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, “For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?”“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
Theologically, the fig tree represents unfruitful lives. Its mere presence, without bearing fruit, is harmful. Similarly, believers who neglect God’s work or live in disobedience harm the spiritual soil around them. Fruitfulness is not optional for a disciple; it is evidence of life in Christ (John 15:4-5, NIV: “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.”).
Even if you have a good heart, help others, attend church, and avoid sins like theft and drunkenness, worldly habits such as immodest dressing, vanity, or excessive pursuit of appearances can undermine God’s work. When the Holy Spirit convicts, resistance to that work equates to scattering rather than gathering (Matthew 12:30).
This applies both individually and corporately: God’s kingdom advances through faithful discipleship. Those who live in compromise, passivity, or neglect of God’s mission are in danger of being counted as opposing Christ.
If you have not accepted Christ, the door of grace is open today. We live in the last days. As 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV) reminds us, “the Lord himself will come down from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive will be caught up… to meet the Lord in the air.”
True repentance involves a full turning from sin, including:
Drunkenness, sexual immorality, theft, corruption, and cursing.
Vanity, jealousy, and worldly indulgences.
Immodest attire, excessive adornments, and worldly behaviors that dishonor God.
Burn, remove, or renounce anything that symbolizes your former sin. This act of faith demonstrates your commitment to Christ, opening the way for His grace to strengthen you in overcoming temptation (Romans 6:14, ESV: “For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.”).
Submit to Christ fully in faith.
Join a Bible-based church that faithfully preaches Christ.
Be baptized through full immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ, as instructed in Acts 2:38 (NIV): “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
By doing so, you will walk in obedience and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth, strengthening you to bear fruit for God’s kingdom.
May the Lord bless you abundantly.
Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
John 13:13–17 (NIV): “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
In this passage, Jesus redefines greatness in the Kingdom of God. Contrary to worldly standards, where power and status are often equated with greatness, Jesus teaches that true greatness is found in humble service. By washing His disciples’ feet, He demonstrated that leadership in God’s Kingdom is characterized by servanthood, not dominance.
Matthew 20:26–28 (NIV): “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Here, Jesus emphasizes that His mission was not to be served but to serve others, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. This act of ultimate humility sets the standard for His followers.
Luke 7:44–46 (NIV): “Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, ‘Do you see this woman? I came into your house; you did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet.’”
In this account, Jesus contrasts the actions of a Pharisee with the humble devotion of a sinful woman. Her act of washing Jesus’ feet with her tears and anointing them with perfume exemplifies profound humility and repentance, highlighting the importance of serving others with a pure heart.
Theological Significance of Foot-Washing
Foot-washing in biblical times was a menial task typically assigned to the lowest servant in the household. Jesus’ act of washing His disciples’ feet was a radical demonstration of humility and love. It served as a powerful symbol of His willingness to cleanse His followers from sin and to model the attitude of servanthood He desired in them.
The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Philippians 2:5–8 (NIV): “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
Paul underscores that Jesus, though divine, humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross, exemplifying the ultimate act of servanthood.
Spiritual Implications for Believers
The act of foot-washing carries profound spiritual implications for believers:
Practical Application
Believers are encouraged to embody the principles demonstrated by Jesus:
In conclusion, foot-washing is more than a ritual; it is a profound act that encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship. By embracing the humility and servanthood exemplified by Jesus, believers can live out the values of the Kingdom of God, bringing glory to Him and reflecting His love to the world.
Have you ever wondered what happens when you ignore the Gospel preached throughout the year?
There are always two types of people.
The first group are those who, upon hearing even a little of the Gospel, feel their conscience stirred and are ready to repent and turn to God immediately. An example of this group is seen on the day of Pentecost, when the Apostle Peter opened his mouth and preached to the people who were amazed as they heard the message in their own languages. In just a few words, many were ready to repent and turn to God.
Acts 2:37-38 (ESV) – “Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ And Peter said to them, ‘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.’”
The second group, however, is different. No matter how much the Gospel is preached to them, no matter how many miracles they see, no matter how spiritually compelling the words are, even if they hear the message from morning to evening, their hearts remain hardened.
An example is found when Paul arrived in Rome and met a large assembly of people willing to listen all day, yet:
Acts 28:23-24 (ESV) – “When they had appointed a day, they came to him at his lodging in large numbers. He explained to them, solemnly testifying about the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets, from morning until evening. And some were persuaded by what he said, but others would not believe.”
Even today, some people hear the Gospel from the beginning of the year to the end—from street preaching, radio, television, and even online—and still refuse to turn to God. They treat the message as if it were trivial news, unaware that their lives are in serious danger.
Grace is not like the sun that will rise tomorrow if it sets today. God’s grace is a divine initiative: it draws people to Himself through the Holy Spirit.
John 6:44 (ESV) – “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.”
Without this divine drawing, no human effort or desire can truly lead someone to God. If the Spirit’s drawing is withdrawn because of persistent rejection, the person may lose the desire to hear God’s Word, the conscience becomes hardened, and the Bible may even appear meaningless. At this point, the individual becomes spiritually blind, much like a pagan who has never known God.
Those who mock or reject God are not foolish in a human sense—they are responding to the absence of the Spirit in their hearts. Their resistance to God’s Word leads them deeper into sin, and ultimately, judgment.
This situation mirrors the Old Testament Year of Release:
Deuteronomy 15:17 (ESV) – “Then you shall take an awl and pierce it through his ear into the door, and he shall be your servant forever.”
If a servant refuses the freedom granted during the year of release, choosing instead to remain a servant, his fate is sealed. Spiritually, those who persistently reject God’s grace choose bondage to sin, and the “hammer of judgment” (spiritual consequences) marks their lives.
Every day that God’s grace is offered is a day of opportunity. Yet some continue in sin—drinking, sexual immorality, pornography, corruption, witchcraft, illicit relationships—while hearing the Gospel and ignoring it. The Gospel is not entertainment; it is life-transforming and demands repentance:
Galatians 6:7 (ESV) – “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”
Turning to Christ requires a full commitment, not half-hearted attempts. If today you choose to accept Jesus Christ, you are making a wise, life-saving decision that will not be regretted.
Here is a prayer of repentance you can pray in faith:
“O God the Father, I come before You acknowledging that I am a sinner and have sinned greatly over a long time, deserving judgment for my disobedience. But You, my God, are merciful according to Your Word, and today I seek Your forgiveness and help. I repent of all my sins with all my heart, I confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, and He is the Savior of this world. By His precious blood, cleanse me and make me a new creation beginning today and forever. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for receiving and forgiving me. Amen.”
After praying in faith, repentance must be confirmed by actions. Leave behind sinful behaviors—drunkenness, sexual immorality, theft, corruption, sorcery, occult practices, and unlawful relationships. God will then receive your repentance and make His dwelling in your life.
Next, join a spiritually vibrant church, learn the Bible, grow in salvation, and receive baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, just as in Acts 2:38. Baptism is an essential step for every believer.
If you follow these steps, God will be with you, and your spiritual growth will be secured. Stay diligent in studying His Word to strengthen your walk of faith.
The importance of Jesus to us is immense, as we read in Ephesians 4:13 (ESV): “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.”
Shalom! May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be blessed. Welcome again as we study God’s Word, which is the lamp to our feet and the light to our path (Psalm 119:105, ESV).
As we have previously learned, and as many of us know, a spiritual person is not someone who merely sees witches or spirits in the natural realm, as is commonly believed. The two men walking to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-33, ESV) did not see witches or spirits around them when their spiritual eyes were opened—they saw Jesus.
Thus, a spiritual person is one who can see and recognize Jesus Christ in the Scriptures and in their life. One whose spiritual eyes are opened will understand the Son of God far beyond anything else: the purpose of His coming to earth, the authority He possesses, His present position, where He is written in Scripture, and His significance among humanity. Such a person will naturally respect Him and ensure that their life reflects His glory.
If you fail to understand Jesus Christ, it does not matter how many visions you see, how much religious education you have, or even how knowledgeable you are in other areas. You are still spiritually dead, and your spiritual eyes remain closed. The essence of knowing God is Jesus Christ.
Colossians 2:9 (ESV): “For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.”
The Bible reiterates in Ephesians 4:13 (ESV): “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.”
We need to know this Lord deeply. All our teachings, thoughts, and studies should center on Him—Jesus Christ—so that we may become truly spiritual. Today, by God’s grace, we will learn more about this Son of God.
Unlike what many think, Jesus Christ does not primarily need our praise without knowing Him. The truth is that He first desires that we know Him; only then will our praises be meaningful. In ordinary life, you do not value compliments from someone who does not know you—they are empty words. But when someone knows you intimately, their words carry real weight. Similarly, our praises to the Lord, without true knowledge of Him, are superficial and powerless.
God created Adam with authority over all the earth, including every creature (Genesis 1:26-28, ESV). Adam and his descendants were to govern everything, including the land. Even Satan was under Adam’s authority. But when Adam and Eve sinned, they handed over that authority to Satan. He then became the ruler of this world, able to bring disease, destruction, or death to humanity, and even hold the keys of hell (Matthew 16:18-19, ESV; Revelation 1:18, ESV).
Humanity had lost its way, grouped with the fallen angels, awaiting judgment. Without divine intervention, we were destined for destruction.
But God, in His mercy, provided a path of salvation. Humanity could be saved, not by chance, but because God’s plan always involved a human—the Redeemer—who would restore what Adam had lost.
God began a new creation through another man, one like Adam, given authority over the earth, to rule all creation. This man would be perfect and sinless—Jesus Christ, the Second Adam. He was fully human, yet a profound mystery: God Himself in the flesh (1 Timothy 3:16, ESV).
At His incarnation, the sinful lineage of Adam continued, but it had to be removed so that only the lineage of Christ remained. Jesus had no physical wife or children because God intended for us—fallen humanity—to be adopted into His family (John 1:12, ESV; Romans 8:15, ESV).
Jesus, in His redemptive work, adopts us into His family, giving us a share in His kingdom:
Matthew 28:18 (ESV): “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'”
Even before the final judgment, Jesus invites all humanity to come to Him and receive life (Luke 13:23-27, ESV). His kingdom is near, and soon there will be no more opportunity to enter.
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
Jesus Christ, now seated in heaven, awaits the last person to enter His kingdom. Those who reject Him will face judgment, while those who accept Him will be saved.
Matthew 28:16-18 (ESV): “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'”
If you desire to become His child, you must repent and turn from sin. Confess your sins in prayer, and He will forgive you. Remove all forms of sexual immorality, worldly indulgences, and addictions. Seek water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ (John 3:23; Acts 2:38, ESV) and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your life.
By doing this, your repentance will be genuine, and you will experience the power to overcome sin. The Holy Spirit will continue to teach you the significance of Jesus in your life and the lives of others.
Remember: His kingdom is near, and He is coming soon. The Lord will bless you.
Introduction:
God does not desire what is easy, convenient, or leftover. He desires offerings that come from the depth of our hearts—gifts that cost us something. Sacrifice is at the core of biblical worship, and we see this vividly in the life of David and his mighty men.
1. The Story of David’s Thirst – A Picture of Sacrificial Love
In 2 Samuel 23:13–17, David, Israel’s anointed king, was in hiding during a fierce battle with the Philistines. Bethlehem—his hometown—was occupied by the enemy. In a moment of longing, David said:
“Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” (v. 15)
This was not a command—just a heartfelt desire. But three of David’s warriors heard him and acted. They risked their lives, broke through enemy lines, and brought him the water he longed for.
Their act reflects deep devotion, loyalty, and sacrificial love. It wasn’t about the water—it was about honoring the heart of their king.
2. David’s Surprising Response – Worship over Gratification
Upon receiving the water, David didn’t drink it. Instead:
“He refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the Lord.” (v. 16)
David recognized the cost of the water—it symbolized the blood of the men who had risked their lives. He said:
“Far be it from me, Lord, to do this! Is it not the blood of men who went at the risk of their lives?” (v. 17)
This water became too sacred for personal use—it became a sacrifice worthy only for God. Pouring it out was David’s way of turning the devotion of his men into an act of worship.
This echoes the principle found in Leviticus 17:11 (NIV):
“For the life of a creature is in the blood… it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.” David saw the water as symbolic of life itself—thus worthy to be poured before God alone.
3. A New Testament Reflection – Christ’s Thirst and Our Response
This story foreshadows Jesus Christ, the Son of David. While on the cross, Jesus cried:
“I am thirsty.” (John 19:28, NIV)
This was not only physical thirst but a cry reflecting His spiritual longing for souls, love, and the fulfillment of His mission. But instead of honor, He was given vinegar (John 19:29)—a symbol of contempt.
Yet Christ’s thirst continues even today—not for water, but for faithful hearts willing to respond in sacrifice and love.
In Matthew 25:35–40, Jesus makes it personal:
“I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Giving to others sacrificially—whether time, money, or service—is giving to Christ Himself.
4. Turning Water into Blood – What Kind of Offerings Do We Give?
Many people give to God what’s easy to spare. But God is not honored by convenience. The question is: Do we give what costs us?
David refused to offer to God something that cost him nothing:
“I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” (2 Samuel 24:24, NIV)
True worship involves sacrifice. That’s why Romans 12:1 tells us:
“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
When we give what truly costs us—time, money, possessions, comfort—we give not just water, but blood. It becomes a holy offering.
Even if it’s small, what matters is the cost. Like the poor widow in Mark 12:41–44, who gave two small coins, Jesus praised her above the rich because:
“She, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
5. The Eternal Reward of Costly Giving
When we give sacrificially, heaven sees it not just as a gift, but as a testimony. Revelation honors those who have poured out their lives for Christ:
“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” (Revelation 12:11)
While not all are called to physical martyrdom, we are all called to lay down our lives in surrender. Sacrificial giving places us among the ranks of those who share in the testimony of Christ.
Conclusion: Offer What Costs You
God is not asking for what is easy. He is asking for what is real. Let us not settle for giving God what is leftover, but let’s offer Him what matters most to us—just as those three warriors did for David.
Let’s give:
Because what we pour out to God never goes to waste. It rises as a sacrifice, and in return, God fills us with more than we gave.
“Give, and it will be given to you.” (Luke 6:38)
Shalom.
If you are not faithful now, your position can be taken by someone else.
May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Life, be praised. Welcome as we study the Bible, God’s Word the lamp that guides our feet and the light for our path.
Today we will learn about the consequences of being unfaithful in God’s work. There is a difference in how people serve God. Each person is called to serve according to the gift God has given them. But if someone is given a gift and either fails to use it or misuses it, there are serious consequences and one major consequence is that their position can be taken and given to someone else who will be faithful.
What many people do not realize is this: God never removes a person’s gift, but He can remove the ministry or opportunity to use that gift faithfully. In other words, the grace God gave someone to serve Him can be given to another who will bear greater fruit. The gift may remain with the person, but its purpose will no longer be fulfilled as God intended.
In the Bible, we see the example of King Saul. God Himself anointed Saul, and the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him so that he would be king over Israel. But even though God elevated him, Saul did not use his position faithfully. He disobeyed God’s command and followed his own way instead of obeying God’s Word. As a result, God removed Saul’s position as king.
In Scripture:
1 Samuel 15:24–29 (NIV)
24 Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I violated the Lord’s command … I was afraid of the men and so I gave in to them.25 Now I beg you, forgive my sin … so that I may worship the Lord.”26 But Samuel said, “I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as king over Israel!” …28 Samuel said to him, “The Lord has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to one of your neighbors to one better than you.29 He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a human being, that he should change his mind.” (Biblia)
Saul admits his sin, but his disobedience was a deliberate choice. God withdrew his kingdom and gave it to someone better which we know was David.
Solomon, known for his wisdom, served God faithfully for many years. But later in life, he turned his heart toward idolatry and disobedience. Because of this, God declared that He would take the kingdom from Solomon and give it to another. Notice the direct words of God:
1 Kings 11:11 (NIV)
“So the Lord said to Solomon, ‘Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees … I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.’” (YouVersion | The Bible App | Bible.com)
Because Solomon turned away from God, the kingdom was taken from him. God still showed mercy not removing everything from Solomon in his lifetime but the primary role he once had was reassigned.
Even in the New Testament, we see that someone entrusted with ministry can lose their place. Judas Iscariot was a disciple of Jesus, given a role among the Twelve. But he betrayed the Lord and opened the door to evil through his unfaithfulness.
After Judas’ betrayal and death, the early church recognized that his position needed to be filled. Peter stood up and said they must choose a replacement who had been with them from the beginning of Jesus’ ministry:
Acts 1:15–26 (NIV)
… “Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time … to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” …26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles. (Christianity.com)
This shows that when someone abandons or misuses what God entrusted to them, God has others ready to step in.
In the Old Testament, the prophet Elijah felt isolated. He complained that all God’s prophets had been killed and that he alone was left. But God answered him:
Romans 11:4 (NIV)
“And what was God’s answer to him? ‘I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.’” (Bible Hub)
God reminded Elijah that there were thousands still faithful to Him that he was not alone and that God always has others who will serve Him faithfully.
So today, if you feel called by God whether to preach, teach, lead worship, minister to others, or serve in any capacity listen carefully:
Faithfulness matters. Don’t despise what God has entrusted to you.
God is not dependent on any one person. He has many faithful servants ready to do His work.
If you refuse to serve faithfully, God can and will give your role to someone else who will.
Do not think that you are indispensable before God. He saw Solomon, Saul, Judas, and many others. He held them accountable for how they used their gift and calling. The same principle applies today.
May we serve with humility, obedience, and devotion.May our lives reflect His grace until Jesus Christ returns.
The Lord bless you.
Shalom.Welcome — let’s study the Bible together.
The Word of God says in 1 Timothy 6:20 (NKJV):
“O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge.”
One of the things that can damage a person’s faith, destroy a believer, or weaken a ministry is religious rivalry. Any form of religious competition ultimately has its roots in the enemy.
Often, the source of this rivalry is knowledge. When someone knows something and feels that others do not know it — or believes others are not doing things correctly — that knowledge can easily produce pride. And pride gives birth to boasting, which eventually leads to competition.
As the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 8:1 (NKJV):
“We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies.”
Some of the religious controversies we see today include:
There are many others, but these are among the most common. You’ll often find people arguing from morning until evening, each determined to prove they are right and more knowledgeable than the other.
But if you look at the outcome of these debates, they usually end in quarrels, insults, mockery, bitterness, anger, or even broken relationships. The arguments rarely end permanently. They may quiet down for a few hours or days, but then they resume again — each side having gathered new points to continue the battle.
And yet, in all those heated exchanges, how often do you see genuine repentance? How often does someone say, “Thank You, Lord, for opening my eyes”? Rarely do such discussions produce joy, love, or peace.
If the fruit of the Spirit is absent, how can the conversation be from God? Scripture teaches us that anger, hatred, jealousy, insults, and strife are not the work of the Spirit.
The Bible repeatedly warns us to avoid such disputes.
2 Timothy 2:14 (NKJV) says:
“Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers.”
Suppose you believe you understand a biblical truth and want to share it with someone. But as soon as you begin, they respond with hostility and argument. What should you do?
The answer is wisdom and humility.
When someone refuses to listen and immediately turns the conversation into a contest, you must remain gentle. Humility disarms hostility. Very few people can continue attacking someone who responds calmly and respectfully.
Explain the truth patiently and clearly. If they insult you, remain silent. If they raise their voice, stay composed. When there is no reaction to fuel the fire, the argument often loses momentum. Over time, they may begin to listen. Even if they don’t agree immediately, they will recognize that you came to teach — not to compete.
As 1 Peter 3:15 (NKJV) instructs:
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.”
The moment we begin trying to prove we are superior, trading insults for insults, or firing verses back and forth like weapons, we ignite the fire of rivalry — and peace becomes impossible. Even if what we say contains truth, it will not be received.
The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NKJV):
“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.”
God does not dwell in chaos and strife. The Holy Spirit works where there is peace, order, and humility.
Sometimes there are individuals whose purpose is not to learn but to provoke. They may start discussions simply to stir controversy and damage someone’s reputation. Their goal is to draw you into conflict so that others see you as argumentative or unkind.
If you respond gently and they persist in foolish arguments, Scripture gives clear guidance.
Titus 3:9 (NKJV) says:
“But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.”
We are not obligated to engage in endless debates. Walking away from a fruitless argument is not weakness — it is obedience.
As 2 Timothy 2:23–26 (NKJV) teaches:
“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient,in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth,and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.”
May the Lord help us to live out these truths.
May the Lord bless you.
Question: What does Paul mean when he writes, “The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one” (1 Corinthians 2:15, ESV)?
1. What It Means to Be “Spiritual”
In 1 Corinthians 2, Paul contrasts the natural person (ψυχικὸς ἄνθρωπος – “soulish man”) with the spiritual person (πνευματικὸς ἄνθρωπος – “Spirit-led man”).
The natural person relies on human reasoning and is limited to earthly perception. Paul writes: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14, ESV).
The spiritual person, however, is indwelt and enlightened by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9). He is not spiritual because of visions, dreams, or supernatural gifts, but because he has come to know the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).
Being “spiritual” is therefore not about having mystical experiences, but about living under the direction and illumination of the Holy Spirit, who reveals the wisdom of God centered in Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2).
2. The Mystery of God’s Wisdom Revealed in Christ
Paul declares that the supreme mystery of God is Jesus Christ Himself. The rulers of this world—both political and spiritual powers—failed to grasp this truth:
None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory (1 Corinthians 2:8, ESV).
None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory
(1 Corinthians 2:8, ESV).
Christ is described as “the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24) and in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3, NASB).
Had the rulers understood that the cross was the very plan of God for salvation (Acts 2:23), they would not have carried it out. But God, in His sovereignty, allowed their blindness to accomplish His redemptive purpose.
3. Why the World Cannot Understand
John confirms this spiritual blindness:
“Though He had done so many signs before them, they still did not believe in Him” (John 12:37, ESV).
Isaiah foresaw this when he wrote, “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them” (John 12:40, quoting Isaiah 6:10).
This blindness is not intellectual but spiritual. Without the Spirit, the natural mind is incapable of grasping God’s truth (Romans 8:7–8).
4. How the Spiritual Person Discerns All Things
When Paul says the spiritual person “judges all things,” he does not mean that believers know everything in detail. Rather, by the Spirit, they are given discernment (1 John 2:20, 27).
The Spirit searches the deep things of God and reveals them to us (1 Corinthians 2:10).
The believer can discern between truth and error, light and darkness, righteousness and sin (Hebrews 5:14).
This discernment extends beyond knowledge—it shapes character, decisions, and perspective, aligning the believer’s mind with the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).
Thus, while the world may not understand the believer, the believer, by the Spirit, perceives both the things of God and the reality of the world around him.
5. Why the Spiritual Person Is Not Judged by Others
Paul adds, “He himself is judged by no one” (1 Corinthians 2:15, NKJV). This means that the natural person, who lacks the Spirit, cannot truly evaluate or comprehend the spiritual person’s life, motives, or hope.
To the world, Paul was considered insane (Acts 26:24).
John the Baptist was accused of being demon-possessed (Matthew 11:18).
Jesus Himself was misunderstood, mocked, and rejected by the religious leaders (John 7:20, Mark 3:21).
In the same way, those who are led by the Spirit may be misunderstood or even despised by the natural mind. But their true life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3), and only God’s judgment ultimately matters.
6. The Call to Be Truly Spiritual
Being spiritual begins with surrendering to Christ. Without Him, there is no access to the wisdom of God. Jesus Himself said:
Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3, ESV).
Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God
(John 3:3, ESV).
If you have never surrendered your life to Christ, or if you once did but have grown cold, now is the time to return. Only then will the Spirit of God open your eyes to the deeper truths of Christ and grant you discernment that the world cannot understand.
Final Word
To be “spiritual” is to live under the illumination of the Holy Spirit, beholding Christ as the wisdom of God. Such a person can discern all things in light of Christ, yet remains a mystery to the world.
But we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16, ESV).
But we have the mind of Christ
(1 Corinthians 2:16, ESV).
May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you richly as you seek to walk in the Spirit.