Acts 11:25 – “Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul.”
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Today, I want us to reflect on an important but often overlooked aspect of Christian ministry—the ministry of follow-up. As believers and workers in God’s field, our mission doesn’t end at leading someone to salvation. Evangelism is not complete until the person who has come to Christ is nurtured, strengthened, and established in their faith.
It is common to see people get saved after hearing the gospel—they respond with faith, receive Jesus Christ, and begin a new life. But what happens next? Some may grow on their own, but most need spiritual support and guidance. Without proper follow-up, new believers can easily drift away or fall back into their old lives. Jesus Himself instructed in Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV):
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Notice He didn’t say just “make converts,” but “make disciples”. Discipleship requires consistent teaching, mentoring, and walking alongside new believers. That is follow-up in action.
In Acts 11:25, we read about Barnabas—a man whose name means “son of encouragement.” After Saul’s (Paul’s) dramatic conversion in Acts 9, he faced rejection from the church in Jerusalem because of his past as a persecutor of Christians. Due to threats against his life, he withdrew to Tarsus, seemingly forgotten by many. But not by Barnabas.
Barnabas heard of Paul’s transformation and decided to act. He left Antioch, traveled to Tarsus, and brought Paul back to be part of a vibrant church community where he could grow in ministry. Acts 11:26 (NIV) says:
“And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people.”
This act of follow-up changed everything. From there, Paul’s ministry flourished. God used him mightily to spread the gospel throughout the Roman Empire, writing much of the New Testament.
Sometimes we dismiss or overlook new converts, especially if they seem inconsistent or spiritually weak. But we must remember: even the great Apostle Paul had a rough beginning. It took someone like Barnabas to see beyond the present and invest in Paul’s future.
You may be witnessing to someone today who doesn’t seem promising, but with proper follow-up and guidance, they might become a mighty instrument for God. As Paul later wrote in Galatians 4:19 (NIV):
“My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you…”
Paul understood the importance of nurturing believers until Christ was fully formed in them.
Follow-up ministry may not be glamorous, but it is powerful. It is through this investment that we make lasting disciples. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV):
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm… Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Don’t just preach and walk away. Stay involved. Walk the journey with new believers. Encourage them, guide them, and disciple them. You never know—the person you’re following up on today could be the next Paul.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you as you continue to serve in His harvest field
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KEY VERSE (ESV):“By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks.” – Hebrews 11:4 (ESV)
At first glance, this verse seems mysterious: How can someone who is dead still speak?
Theologically, we must understand that this “speaking” is not literal or audible, but testimonial. Abel’s life, especially his act of faith in offering a pleasing sacrifice to God, continues to “speak” across generations as a permanent testimony of righteousness and obedience.
This echoes the concept of the “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12:1:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…” – Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)
The saints of old do not physically speak or return to us, but their lives of faith bear lasting witness, urging us to live faithfully as they did.
2. Rejecting the Idea of the Dead Speaking Literally
Some cultures or spiritual traditions suggest that the dead can speak to the living—through dreams, visions, or voices from graves. But Scripture is clear: communication with the dead is forbidden and not of God.
“There shall not be found among you anyone who… inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.” – Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (ESV)
If one claims to hear from the dead, it is not the voice of a departed loved one or saint, but likely a deceiving spirit (1 Timothy 4:1). God has appointed His Word and the testimony of the saints to guide us—not ghostly messages.
3. The Witness of Scripture Replaces the Need for the Dead to Speak
In Luke 16:19–31, the rich man in Hades begs Abraham to send Lazarus back to warn his family. Abraham replies:
“They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.” – Luke 16:29 (ESV)
This affirms a central theological truth: God’s revelation through Scripture is sufficient. The dead do not return to speak. Instead, their teachings and lives, recorded in Scripture, are God’s chosen means of communicating truth.
4. Abel’s “Voice” Is His Legacy of Faith
Abel “speaks” to us through the testimony of his faith. His story, though brief, represents the first recorded act of true worship—offering God a sacrifice from the heart. This act pleased God and was accepted, unlike Cain’s.
This makes Abel the first among many who lived by faith, as detailed in Hebrews 11, often called the “Hall of Faith.” His example teaches us that faithful obedience pleases God more than ritual or formality.
5. Christ’s Blood Speaks Better Than Abel’s
Abel’s blood cried out for justice (Genesis 4:10), but the blood of Jesus offers something greater:
“…to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” – Hebrews 12:24 (ESV)
Jesus’ blood speaks of mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. While Abel’s death pointed to the tragedy of sin, Christ’s death brings hope and redemption. Theologically, this highlights the superiority of the New Covenant over all that came before it.
Conclusion: What Does It Mean for Us Today?
When Hebrews says, “though he died, he still speaks”, it teaches us that:
Lives of faith leave lasting impact
Testimonies of righteousness endure beyond death
Scripture, not the dead, is our guide
Jesus is the ultimate voice of truth and grace
Just like Abel, every believer is called to live a life that continues to “speak” long after we are gone—not by mystical means, but through our legacy of faith, love, and obedience to God.
May your life, like Abel’s, be a testimony that still speaks.
The Lord bless you.
Genesis 28:21
“..so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the LORD will be my God…”
This statement comes at a pivotal moment in Jacob’s life. After deceiving his brother Esau, Jacob flees for his life to his uncle Laban’s household in Haran. Alone in the wilderness, uncertain about his future, and without any possessions, Jacob has an extraordinary dream where he sees a stairway to heaven and hears God affirm the covenant made with Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 28:12–15).
In response to this divine encounter, Jacob makes a vow. He says that if God will be with him, provide for him, and bring him back safely, then the LORD will be his God (Genesis 28:20–21).
At first glance, it might seem like Jacob is making a conditional deal with God—“If You do this, then I’ll worship You.” But that interpretation doesn’t align with the full biblical picture or with how Jacob lives afterward.
Theological Insight:
Jacob’s vow should not be seen as a lack of faith but as a moment of growing trust and commitment. This is the first personal encounter he has with the God of his fathers. While he may have known about Yahweh from Isaac and Abraham, this is where God becomes personal to him. The language “the LORD will be my God” reflects a covenantal relationship forming on Jacob’s part.
This is consistent with other places in Scripture where God’s people enter into covenant through vows. For example:
Deuteronomy 10:20 : “Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name.”
Psalm 50:14–15 : “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call on me in the day of trouble…”
Jacob’s words aren’t about bargaining but about dedication. He acknowledges God’s promises and responds by committing his future to Him. His pledge to give a tenth (Genesis 28:22) further reinforces this, showing his intent to worship God tangibly—much like Abraham did in Genesis 14:20.
Application Today:
Jacob’s vow is similar to what many believers express today: “Lord, if You help me through this, I’ll serve You with my life.” This isn’t necessarily a condition—it’s a reflection of human weakness and hope. Jacob, like many of us, is learning to trust God more deeply. He isn’t withholding faith—he’s discovering what it means to walk in covenant with God, even when the future is uncertain.
Just as God was faithful to Jacob for the next 20 years, so He is faithful to us. Even when our trust is still growing, He meets us with grace and keeps His promises.
Conclusion:
Jacob’s statement in Genesis 28:21 is not a condition of belief but a declaration of personal commitment. He moves from knowing about God to knowing God personally. It’s a moment of transition—where Yahweh becomes his God, not just the God of his father and grandfather.
Genesis 28:15 —
“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go… I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
This is the heart of Jacob’s vow. He is responding to a God who promises presence, provision, and protection—and he’s saying, “If You walk with me through this, I will walk with You always.”
May the Lord bless you as you walk with Him in faith.
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Being a Christian isn’t just about attending church or bearing the title—it’s about becoming like Christ, and that process begins with becoming His disciple. The first followers of Jesus showed us what true discipleship looks like. These six traits reflect the heart of a genuine follower of Christ.
(Self-denial is central to sanctification)
To follow Christ, the disciples had to make a clear break from living for themselves. Jesus taught that discipleship demands daily self-denial, which is the foundation of spiritual growth. It means placing God’s will above personal comfort, desires, and even ambitions.
📖 Luke 14:27 – “And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” 📖 Luke 9:23 – “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
💡 This mirrors Romans 12:1, where Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices. It’s the path of sanctification, the daily dying to self and living unto Christ (Galatians 2:20).
(Discipleship involves ongoing formation in truth)
A disciple is a learner under a master, and Jesus’ disciples placed themselves fully under His teaching. Today, we continue in discipleship by submitting to the Holy Spirit and learning through Scripture.
📖 John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
💡 Jesus is the Logos (Word) (John 1:1), and the Holy Spirit continues His teaching ministry. A true disciple commits to biblical formation through sound doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16–17) and discipleship communities (Acts 2:42).
(Discipleship is participatory, not passive)
Jesus lived on mission, traveling to preach the gospel, and His disciples followed Him everywhere. Their discipleship included action, not just listening.
📖 Matthew 9:35– “Jesus went through all the towns and villages… proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.”
💡 Discipleship includes both formation (being with Christ) and mission (working with Christ). Like interns in a training field, we are sent to do ministry (Luke 10:1–3). Evangelism is not optional for disciples; it’s part of obedience (Matthew 28:19–20).
(Obedience is the evidence of love for Christ)
Obedience characterized the disciples’ walk with Jesus. Whether it was partaking in the Lord’s Supper, proclaiming the gospel, or following difficult commands, they obeyed without resistance.
📖 John 14:15– “If you love me, keep my commands.” 📖 Luke 9:45– “But they did not understand what this meant… and they were afraid to ask him about it.”
💡True faith always results in obedience (James 2:17). The disciples’ submission reflected fear of the Lord, which Proverbs 1:7 says is the beginning of wisdom. Spiritual maturity is marked by both trust and surrender.
(Saving faith is relational and revelational)
From the beginning, the disciples placed their trust in Jesus—not just in what He could do, but in who He was. Their belief wasn’t shallow admiration, but deep personal faith.
📖 John 2:11 – “What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs… and his disciples believed in him.”
💡 This aligns with Hebrews 11:6, which says that without faith it’s impossible to please God. Faith in Jesus as the Son of God is the core of salvation (John 20:31), and discipleship flows out of a personal trust in His Lordship.
(Discipleship includes endurance through mystery and suffering)
There were times when Jesus’ words confused or offended many, and some walked away. But the Twelve remained. They didn’t fully understand, but they knew only Jesus had the words of eternal life.
📖 John 6:67–68– “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
💡 The Christian walk includes seasons of spiritual confusion, doubt, or hardship, yet endurance is the mark of true disciples (Hebrews 10:36; James 1:12). We must learn to trust even when we don’t fully understand (Proverbs 3:5–6).
You can’t separate Christianity from discipleship. In the early church, believers were first called “Christians” because they were clearly recognized as disciples—people who looked, lived, and loved like Jesus.
📖 Acts 11:26 – “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”
💡 Christianity is not just a belief system—it’s a relationship with Christ that transforms us into His likeness (Romans 8:29). That transformation happens through discipleship, which is the lifelong journey of becoming like Jesus.
Lord, make us true disciples. Help us deny ourselves, learn from You daily, follow You wherever You lead, obey You without hesitation, believe in You with all our hearts, and endure even when we don’t understand. Shape us into the image of Your Son. Amen.
Epaphroditus is a lesser-known but deeply inspiring figure in the New Testament. Mentioned in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he serves as a profound example of sacrificial service, loyalty to Christ, and the sustaining mercy of God.
Epaphroditus was a member of the church in Philippi, a community known for its generosity and partnership in Paul’s ministry (Philippians 1:5; 4:15–16). When Paul was imprisoned in Rome (around A.D. 60–62), the Philippians sent Epaphroditus to deliver financial support and minister to Paul’s needs.
“But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.” — Philippians 2:25, NIV
Paul uses four titles to describe Epaphroditus:
Traveling from Philippi to Rome (a journey of 700–800 miles) was dangerous, expensive, and exhausting. Yet Epaphroditus willingly undertook this mission, carrying the Philippians’ financial gift.
“I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” — Philippians 4:18, NIV
Here, Paul likens their gift to Old Testament sacrificial worship (cf. Leviticus 1:9). This highlights that their generosity was not just material support, but an act of worship.
While in Rome, Epaphroditus fell gravely ill—“almost to the point of death.” Despite his suffering, he remained focused on serving Paul and was distressed that the Philippians had heard of his illness.
“Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.” — Philippians 2:27, NIV
Paul doesn’t attribute his recovery to medicine or coincidence, but to God’s mercy. This is a strong theological point: divine healing is always an act of God’s compassion, not human merit.
Though Scripture does not specify the illness, the language implies a prolonged and severe sickness. Epaphroditus’s willingness to risk his health for Christ’s work mirrors Jesus’ words in John 15:13:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
Paul urges the Philippians to receive Epaphroditus with joy and to honor him. This shows the early church’s practice of recognizing and affirming humble, faithful service—not only public ministry.
“So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.” — Philippians 2:29–30, NIV
The Greek phrase for “risked his life” (paraboleuomai) implies deliberate, courageous risk—like that of a gambler staking everything. Early church tradition holds that a group called the Parabolani later modeled their ministry of caring for the sick and dying after Epaphroditus.
a. Love That Reflects Christ Epaphroditus showed Christlike love—putting others before himself (cf. Philippians 2:3–4). His actions reflect the mind of Christ, described earlier in Philippians 2:5–11.
b. God’s Sovereign Mercy His healing reminds us that, though faithful believers may suffer, God remains merciful and sovereign. Healing is never guaranteed, but God does intervene in His timing and for His purposes.
c. Encouragement for Today’s Servants Modern servants of God—pastors, missionaries, volunteers—can take encouragement from Epaphroditus’s example. Whether your role is visible or behind the scenes, God sees and values your service (Hebrews 6:10).
If you’re going through hardship—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—remember Epaphroditus. His life shows that even in weakness and obscurity, you can powerfully serve Christ. And when hope seems lost, God’s mercy can still prevail.
“All things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27, NIV)
Shalom.
Main Text: Luke 17:10
“So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’”
At the beginning of Luke 17, Jesus was teaching His disciples about forgiveness. After hearing how often they should forgive others, the disciples responded by saying:
Luke 17:5: “The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’”
They felt that living this kind of forgiving life required more faith. In their minds, bigger results required bigger faith.
But Jesus gave them a surprising response:
Luke 17:6: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.”
Jesus immediately followed His teaching on faith with a parable:
Luke 17:7–9: “Suppose one of you has a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’? Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’? Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do?”
This parable points to how servants relate to their masters: They don’t expect to be thanked for simply doing their job. They serve as an obligation — not for praise or personal benefit.
Luke 17:10: “So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’”
Jesus is teaching a key principle: True disciples serve God without entitlement.
We don’t serve God to earn favor or blessings. All that we receive from Him — including salvation and faith — is by grace, not merit.
Ephesians 2:8–9: “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.”
Jesus reminds us in Luke 17:10 that even if we obey perfectly, we haven’t earned anything. We’ve only done our duty. This destroys spiritual pride.
Jesus calls His followers not to seek position or recognition but to serve with humility, just as He did.
Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Kingdom greatness is measured not by status, but by sacrificial service.
Many believers grow weary in serving God — especially when it seems like there’s no reward or recognition. Some stop serving when life doesn’t improve or when blessings seem delayed.
But Jesus is calling us to mature faith — faith that continues to serve God even without seeing immediate results.
Even if you preach for 20 years and see no outward success, or give sacrificially and still struggle financially — don’t give up. Don’t demand answers. Serve God faithfully, knowing that He sees, He remembers, and His timing is perfect.
Hebrews 6:10: “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Let us take Jesus’ words to heart and say: “Lord, I’m not serving You for reward. I serve because You are worthy.”
Whether He blesses us now or later, our identity is not in what we receive — but in whom we belong to.
Romans 14:8: “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
Luke 17:10: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.”
And yet, in God’s grace — He rewards even what we don’t deserve.
Psalm 48:14
“For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even to the end.”
Psalm 48:14 is a powerful declaration of God’s covenant faithfulness and unchanging nature. The psalmist affirms that the God of Israel is not just a historical figure who acted in the past, but the eternal God who continues to guide His people today and forever.
In saying, “He will be our guide even to the end,” the psalm reveals a core theological truth: God is personally involved in the journey of His people. This guidance includes spiritual direction, protection, wisdom, correction, and provision.
The psalmist refers to “this God”—the one who revealed Himself to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the one who rescued Israel from Egypt. This is not a new or distant god, but the same covenant-keeping God who has always walked with His people. In covenant theology, this continuity of God’s presence is key:
Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
This shows that God’s character and commitment don’t change. He is eternally faithful.
The promise of guidance is not limited to religious matters. God promises to walk with us in every season—whether through deserts or victories, confusion or clarity. He leads:
Psalm 32:8 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
God’s guidance was vividly demonstrated during the Exodus:
All of these show God’s desire to lead—not from a distance, but in close relationship.
Ultimately, God’s guiding presence was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who came not only to save but to lead. And when Christ ascended, He did not leave us as orphans:
John 16:13 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come.”
Through the Holy Spirit, believers today continue to experience God’s personal guidance in their lives. The Spirit guides us in truth, convicts us of sin, and helps us discern God’s will.
Psalm 48:14 is more than a poetic line—it is a theological anchor. We can boldly declare, “He will be our guide,” because:
Romans 8:14 “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
This is the kind of confidence that gives peace to every believer. God doesn’t just start with us—He walks with us to the finish.
May the Lord bless you as you trust His guidance every day.
Question: What does the Bible mean when it talks about “man-stealers” in 1 Timothy 1:10?
Answer: Let’s explore the relevant passage:
1 Timothy 1:8-10 [8] We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.[9] We also know that the law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers,[10] the sexually immoral, those practicing homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine
Theological Insights on “Man-Stealers”:
The term “man-stealers” (translated as “enslavers” in many bible versions or “kidnappers” refers to those who illegally abduct or steal people, often for purposes of slavery or exploitation. This was a severe moral and social evil in biblical times, and the Bible speaks harshly against it. It is closely linked to human trafficking and slavery, both of which are considered grave sins in the eyes of God.
Biblical Context:1 Timothy 1:10 gives us a list of sinful behaviors that the law was meant to address, and “man-stealers” (or enslavers) are explicitly included. The word here indicates the kind of sin that violates the dignity of a human being and disrupts God’s intention for humanity to live in freedom and mutual respect.
The Apostle Paul underscores that the law is intended for those who practice these evil deeds, highlighting that the commandments of God are meant to keep such sinful behaviors in check.
Old Testament Background:The idea of stealing people, or kidnapping, is not a new concept and is condemned in the Old Testament as well.
Exodus 21:16 : “Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession.”
This law emphasizes the gravity of human trafficking and the severe consequences for those who steal people for exploitation.
Deuteronomy 24:7, “”If someone is caught kidnapping a fellow Israelite and treats them as a slave or sells them, the kidnapper must die. You must purge the evil from among you.”
This echoes the seriousness of the crime of stealing people. The punishment is death, showing that God values the sanctity of life and human freedom. Kidnapping was considered an affront to God’s justice and the dignity of the person created in His image (Genesis 1:27).
New Testament Teachings:While the Old Testament law prescribes death for the act of kidnapping or man-stealing, the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles, does not promote physical punishment for such crimes in the same way. Instead, the focus is on addressing these crimes through legal systems (Romans 13:1-7) and promoting justice within society. However, the gravity of the offense is no less—man-stealing is still considered a grave sin, deserving of moral and legal condemnation.
In Romans 13:3-4, Paul explains the role of government in punishing evil:
Romans 13:3-4, “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.”
This supports the idea that crimes like man-stealing should be dealt with by the authorities to maintain justice in society.
Modern Implications:In modern terms, “man-stealers” would refer to human traffickers and those who exploit people for slavery, forced labor, sexual exploitation, or illegal organ trade. This evil continues to be a serious issue globally. As Christians, we are called to stand against such injustice. While we are not permitted to take the law into our own hands, we must report such crimes to the authorities, pray for the victims, and work toward societal healing and the elimination of these evils (Matthew 5:13-16).
The Role of the Church and Prayer:Though the New Testament does not advocate for death penalties, it encourages believers to fight against such wickedness through legal and spiritual means. We are called to be the light of the world and to act as advocates for the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17, Proverbs 31:8-9).
Additionally, we should pray for God to remove the spirit of evil that fuels human trafficking and exploitation in our communities. Through prayer and action, we can help bring about justice, protect the vulnerable, and ultimately work toward healing in our societies.
In conclusion, “man-stealers” in 1 Timothy 1:10 highlights one of the most grievous sins—stealing people for exploitation. The Bible condemns such acts, emphasizing their destructive nature. As Christians, we must work against this evil through legal means, prayer, and advocacy for the victims, while trusting that God will bless our efforts in purging such wickedness from our communities.
The Question:
Should weakness be something we accept? Paul seems to embrace it in:
2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (NKJV) And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (NKJV)
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Understanding Paul’s Boast in Weakness
Paul was not celebrating weakness as though it were something inherently good. Physical infirmity, persecution, or hardship is not pleasant in itself. Rather, Paul gloried in weakness because it became the channel through which the power of Christ was revealed. Weakness humbles us, strips us of self-reliance, and drives us to lean wholly upon God’s grace.
This aligns with the biblical principle that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). When pride is broken, the vessel is emptied of self and becomes available for God’s power to flow through.
Paul’s Own Experience
Paul admitted that he lacked impressive human qualities. His critics observed:
2 Corinthians 10:10 (NKJV) For his letters,” they say, “are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.
2 Corinthians 10:10 (NKJV)
For his letters,” they say, “are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.
Yet, through that very weakness, the Spirit worked mightily—converting thousands, planting churches, and confirming the gospel with miracles. This shows that the treasure of the gospel is not in human vessels themselves but in the power of God.
2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV)
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
Paul rejoiced in his frailty, not because it was pleasant, but because it highlighted the sufficiency of Christ’s grace.
Biblical Examples of God Using the Weak
Moses – confessed, “O my Lord, I am not eloquent … I am slow of speech and slow of tongue” (Exodus 4:10, NKJV). Yet God still called him to confront Pharaoh and lead Israel out of Egypt. God’s testimony was that Moses was the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3), and in his humility God’s power was revealed.
Gideon – considered himself the least in his family and his clan the weakest in Manasseh (Judges 6:15). Yet God used him to deliver Israel, showing that “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47).
David – a shepherd boy overlooked even by his own father (1 Samuel 16:11), yet chosen by God to be king of Israel. His victory over Goliath displayed that strength is not in weapons or size, but in the Lord’s power (1 Samuel 17:45–47).
The Apostles – simple fishermen, tax collectors, and ordinary men, yet Acts 4:13 records that their boldness astonished the religious leaders, who recognized they had been with Jesus.
These examples echo Paul’s teaching:
1 Corinthians 1:26–29 (NKJV) For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.
1 Corinthians 1:26–29 (NKJV)
For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.
Weakness in Theological Perspective
1. Weakness reminds us of our dependence on grace. Salvation itself is not by human effort but by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). Weakness magnifies grace, because it shows our inability apart from Christ.
2. Weakness becomes the stage for God’s power. When Paul says, “For when I am weak, then I am strong,” he is teaching a paradox of the kingdom: God’s strength is best displayed when human ability fails.
3. Weakness keeps us humble. Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7) was permitted so that he would not be exalted beyond measure. God sometimes allows weakness to protect us from pride.
4. Weakness points us to Christ. As Hebrews 12:2 commands, we fix our eyes on Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith.” Our insufficiency drives us to His sufficiency.
Testimony of Ricky: Can My Weakness Hinder the Gospel?
Weakness is not in itself good, nor should we glorify disability, sickness, or hardship. There is no pleasure in pain. But when yielded to Christ, weakness becomes a platform for God’s glory. It demonstrates that no limitation—whether physical, intellectual, or social—can prevent God from accomplishing His purposes.
The Lord can use both the educated and the uneducated, the healthy and the sick, the urban and the rural. What matters is surrender to Him. As Paul declared:
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Conclusion
Weakness in itself is not praiseworthy, but when surrendered to God, it becomes the very place where His power is revealed. Rather than despairing over our limitations, we should rejoice that they allow the grace of Christ to shine more brightly.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you in your weakness, that His power may rest upon you.
Question:
In Ecclesiastes 9:16,
the Bible says, “The wisdom of the poor man is despised, and his words are not heard.”
Does this mean we should not listen to the advice or counsel of people who are poor or have no influence? How should we understand this verse?
Answer: Let’s first look at the full context of this passage, beginning in verse 13:
“This wisdom I have also seen under the sun, and it seemed great to me: There was a little city with few men in it; and a great king came against it, besieged it, and built great snares around it. Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city. Yet no one remembered that same poor man. Then I said: ‘Wisdom is better than strength. Nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.’” —Ecclesiastes 9:13–16
This story illustrates a sobering truth: even though the poor man had the wisdom to save an entire city, he was quickly forgotten and his words were ignored. Solomon reflects on this injustice—not to say that the poor are unworthy of being heard, but to highlight how society often overlooks those without wealth, status, or influence, regardless of the value they offer.
The Bible consistently teaches that God values wisdom, not status or wealth. Scripture tells us,
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”
(Proverbs 9:10),
which means that true wisdom begins with a right relationship with God, not with academic degrees or financial success.
In James 2:1–5, the Apostle James strongly rebukes the Church for showing favoritism to the rich while dishonoring the poor. He writes:
“Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” —James 2:5
Clearly, Scripture affirms that poor people can be spiritually rich and incredibly wise. The problem Ecclesiastes reveals is not the lack of wisdom among the poor, but the human tendency to overlook it.
Solomon’s point is this: wisdom is better than strength (Eccl. 9:16a), but sadly, the world often values power, appearance, and wealth more than godly wisdom. This should not be so among God’s people.
Ecclesiastes 4:13 reinforces this when it says:
“Better a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king who will be admonished no more.”
In God’s eyes, it’s not about how loud your voice is or how high your position is—it’s about the character and wisdom rooted in righteousness.
The message of Ecclesiastes 9:16 is not a call to ignore the poor—it’s a challenge to the pride and prejudice that cause us to do so. Let us be the kind of people who value wisdom wherever it’s found and honor the humble insights God often chooses to use.
May the Lord help us to listen with humility, and not despise the voices He may use to speak truth—even when they come from unexpected places.