ANSWER:It’s important to understand that the New Testament was primarily written in Greek. So, when we read certain words in other languages—such as Kiswahili—they may appear to have a single meaning, but in the original Greek, they often carry more than one meaning. For example, when we come across the word “Word” in Kiswahili translations of the Bible, it is generally rendered as “Neno,” meaning “the Word of God.” However, in the original Greek, there are two distinct words used: “Logos” and “Rhema.” Logos refers to the eternal Word of God, the written Word, the mind or plan of God. It also represents Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Word made flesh. Rhema, on the other hand, means the spoken Word of God—a word for a specific time or situation, not necessarily eternal. Examples of verses where “Word” is translated as Logos include: John 1:1-18 James 1:22 Hebrews 4:12 Examples where “Word” refers to Rhema include: Matthew 4:3-4: [3] The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”[4] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Here, when Jesus says, “every word that comes from the mouth of God,” He is referring to Rhema—a specific word spoken by God for that moment. Another example is when Elijah told the widow: “This is what the Lord says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry…’” (1 Kings 17:14) This was not a general promise for everyone at all times—it was a specific word (Rhema) revealed for that moment. Another example:Luke 5:5: Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so (at your word), I will let down the nets.” Peter believed the spoken Word (Rhema) from Jesus—and acted on it. To help you grasp it better: “Logos” = The Holy Scriptures (the Bible) “Rhema” = A revealed Word for a specific time or situation DOES GOD STILL SPEAK TO US THROUGH RHEMA TODAY? Yes! God has already given us His main channel of communication—the Bible (Logos). But He still speaks to us through the Holy Spirit using various gifts: prophecy, teaching, wisdom, visions, dreams, etc. However, any revealed Word (Rhema) must not contradict the written Word (Logos). The two should work together to reveal God more fully in our lives, because He is alive and active. A WARNING:In these last days, many people are turning Rhema into Logos. For instance, they copy what Jesus did—spitting on the ground and making mud to heal someone—or what Paul did by healing with handkerchiefs. But they don’t understand those were Rhema—specific instructions for specific times, not universal commands. Such actions can become idolatrous. For example, in the Old Testament, when the Israelites were in the wilderness, God told Moses to make a bronze serpent for healing (Numbers 21). But later, people turned that bronze serpent into an object of worship, and it led them into bondage (2 Kings 18:4). Our permanent instruction is this: The name of Jesus is our ultimate authority—that is our Logos. Unless God gives you a specific revelation (Rhema) to use something else, don’t copy blindly, because God may not be behind it. Depend more on the Bible. God bless you.
Theological Reflection appears in various forms in both the Old and New Testaments and carries several significant theological implications. Primarily, “to loathe” refers to three main concepts: Being so full that you start to reject what once brought you joy. Despising others by deliberately disregarding God’s commands. Boasting or seeing yourself as righteous in your own eyes. 1. Being Full to the Point of Rejection: One theological lesson we learn from “loathe is the danger of excess. The Bible warns that when we are “full” or “satisfied” in our own understanding or in our earthly possessions, we may begin to loathe the very blessings God has given us. This attitude can lead to spiritual complacency or even ingratitude, which grieves God’s heart. Consider the following verses: Proverbs 27:7 (NIV):“One who is full loathes honey from the comb, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet.”This verse highlights the contrast between contentment and dissatisfaction. A person who has “enough” may find the most delicious things unappealing, whereas someone who is hungry will find even bitter things sweet. Theologically, this reflects the concept of spiritual hunger: when we are spiritually hungry and seeking God, even difficult truths become desirable because we are thirsting for righteousness (Matthew 5:6). And in; Proverbs 25:17 (ESV):“Let your foot be seldom in your neighbor’s house, lest he have his fill of you and hate you.”This speaks to the idea of excess—whether in relationships or physical things—leading to rejection. Theological reflection: In the spiritual sense, God’s blessings are meant to be enjoyed with gratitude and balance. Overindulgence in material things or self-satisfaction can lead to a rejection of God’s abundance. And in; Ecclesiastes 1:8 (NIV):“All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing.” Here, Solomon reflects on the insatiable nature of human desire. Theologically, this points to the fallen nature of humanity—our hearts are restless until they find rest in God (Augustine’s famous statement). Our desires, if left unchecked, lead to dissatisfaction. 2. Despising Others Through Disobedience: Another meaning of “loathe” involves contempt for God’s authority, particularly when individuals reject divine instruction or despise others who uphold God’s commands. This deliberate disobedience and disdain toward God’s representatives are condemned in Scripture. Consider these passages: Deuteronomy 17:12 (NIV):“Anyone who shows contempt for the judge or for the priest who stands ministering there to the Lord your God is to be put to death. You must purge the evil from Israel.”This passage emphasizes the seriousness of rejecting God’s appointed authorities. In a theological sense, when we reject God’s authority, we are not only rejecting human leaders but ultimately rejecting God’s sovereignty over our lives (Romans 13:1). And in; Exodus 21:14 (NIV):“Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession.”The principle behind this verse is the protection of justice and the sacredness of human life. To “despise” or “reject” the law is to reject God’s justice, as He is the ultimate Lawgiver (James 4:12). 3. Boasting or Seeing Yourself as Righteous: Perhaps one of the most profound theological lessons about loathe comes from the concept of self-righteousness. The word “loathe” is often used in Scripture to describe those who, in their pride, think themselves righteous and look down on others. This attitude was especially prevalent among the Pharisees in Jesus’ time. For instance: Luke 18:9-14 (NIV):[9] To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable:[10] “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.[11] The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.[12] I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’[13] But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’[14] I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” This passage is a powerful reminder that self-righteousness leads to spiritual pride, while humility before God leads to justification. Theologically, Jesus’ message highlights the necessity of recognizing our own sinfulness and need for grace (Romans 3:23-24). Justification comes not through our works, but through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Theological Application: In all three cases, “loathe” warns against attitudes that hinder our relationship with God and with others. Whether it’s excessive indulgence, rejection of authority, or self-righteousness, these behaviors lead to spiritual emptiness and estrangement from God. The call for us is clear: We must not become complacent in our faith, nor should we allow pride or disobedience to guide our actions. Instead, we are called to approach God with humility, recognizing our need for His mercy and grace. James 4:6 (NIV):“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” Also in; 1 Peter 5:5 (NIV):“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” When we humble ourselves before the Lord, acknowledging that all we have is by His grace, He will lift us up in due time (1 Peter 5:6). God delights in a humble and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17), and He promises to pour out His grace upon those who seek Him earnestly. Conclusion: As believers, let us guard our hearts against the attitudes of pride, self-righteousness, and rejection of God’s authority. We are called to be humble, to confess our need for God’s mercy, and to seek His righteousness above all else. When we approach God with humility, He will not only forgive us but exalt us in His perfect timing. Amen.
The Romans Road is a biblical pathway to understanding God’s plan of salvation. It is based on key verses from the book of Romans that lay out the steps for receiving salvation through Jesus Christ. This message is central to Christian faith and provides a clear and concise explanation of how a person can be reconciled to God. 1. Romans 3:23 – The Universal Reality of Sin “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23, NIV) This verse highlights a crucial truth: every human being has sinned and is therefore separated from God. Sin is the condition of falling short of God’s perfect holiness, and this applies to everyone, regardless of background or actions. Theologically, this means that no one can claim to be righteous before God on their own merit (Romans 3:10). Theological Insight: Sin isn’t just about actions; it’s a condition of the heart, affecting every part of human existence. This inherent sinfulness is why everyone needs salvation — we are incapable of achieving righteousness through our own efforts. 2. Romans 6:23 – The Consequence and Gift of Salvation “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, NIV) The consequence of sin is death — eternal separation from God. However, God offers a free gift: eternal life in Jesus Christ. This contrast shows the gravity of sin, but also the depth of God’s grace. Theologically, death here refers not just to physical death but to eternal spiritual death, which is the ultimate consequence of sin (Romans 5:12). Theological Insight: This verse underscores the justice of God — sin earns death — and the mercy of God — He offers the gift of life through Christ. Eternal life is not something we earn, but a gift, which speaks to the concept of grace in salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). 3. Romans 5:8 – God’s Demonstration of Love “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, NKJV) Here, Paul explains that God’s love is not based on human worth or merit, but on His own grace. While we were still sinners — lost and rebellious — Christ died for us. This is the heart of the gospel message: Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross is the greatest expression of God’s love for humanity. Theological Insight: Jesus’ death was not for those who were already righteous, but for the ungodly (Romans 5:6), showing that salvation is available to all. This is the theological core of Christianity — God took the initiative to reconcile sinners to Himself, providing atonement through Christ’s death (1 John 4:10). 4. Romans 10:9-10 – The Requirement for Salvation “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Romans 10:9-10, NIV) To receive salvation, it is necessary to confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection. This confession and belief must come from the heart, meaning that salvation is both a public declaration and a personal inward transformation. In theological terms, justification is the act by which God declares a sinner righteous, not based on their works, but on faith in Christ (Romans 5:1). Confession and belief are essential to salvation because they reflect a genuine repentance and trust in Christ’s redemptive work. Faith in Christ’s resurrection specifically affirms the victory over sin and death, central to the Christian hope (1 Corinthians 15:17). The act of confessing Jesus as Lord aligns us with His authority and reign, acknowledging Him as the rightful King of our lives. 5. Romans 5:1 – Peace with God Through Justification “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1, NIV) When a person places their faith in Jesus Christ, they are justified — declared righteous before God. This justification brings peace with God, meaning that the hostility caused by sin is removed, and the individual is no longer under God’s wrath (Romans 1:18). This peace is not merely an emotional feeling but a legal declaration of right standing before God. Theological Insight: Justification is a key doctrine in Christian theology. It means that sinners are declared righteous through faith in Christ, and this righteousness is not based on our own works but on Christ’s completed work on the cross (Romans 3:28). Peace with God is the result of this justification and is the foundation for a restored relationship with the Creator. Conclusion: The Simple Plan of Salvation Through these verses in Romans, we see the full picture of God’s plan for salvation: Humanity’s condition: We are all sinners and deserve death. God’s provision: Jesus Christ died for us, offering us the gift of eternal life. How we receive it: We must confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection. The result: Justification and peace with God, bringing us into a right relationship with Him. If you have not yet accepted this gift of salvation, you can do so today by trusting in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. His sacrifice on the cross has paid the price for your sin, and through faith in Him, you can receive forgiveness and eternal life. If you are ready to accept this free gift, reach out to us for guidance. We are here to help you understand this decision and walk with you in your journey of faith. God bless you.Shalom. Feel free to share this message with others so they can also experience God’s grace and salvation.
In the scriptures, there is no direct account of Jesus speaking in tongues. However, by the understanding given to us by the Holy Spirit, it is clear that Jesus did indeed speak in tongues. The fact that there is no written record of this event does not imply that it did not happen. As John 21:25 states, “Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” Therefore, not every action or event in Jesus’ life is documented in the Bible. Additionally, we must recognize that the concept of speaking in tongues, as first taught to the apostles, was initiated by Jesus. It is not something that was revealed at a later time. This makes sense because Jesus would not ask His followers to do something that He Himself did not experience or practice. In Mark 16:17-18, Jesus Himself says, “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Here, Jesus is speaking of signs and wonders that would follow those who believe in Him, which includes speaking in tongues. Moreover, Jesus was the only man ever anointed with the Holy Spirit in a measure that exceeded all others (Hebrews 1:9), “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” This verse highlights that Jesus was fully endowed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including the gifts of prophecy, teaching, evangelism, shepherding, and apostleship. He also manifested gifts of healing, miracles, and discernment. Given this, it would not be surprising for Jesus to also have the ability to speak in tongues. Theological Implications: Jesus’ Anointing and Fullness of the Spirit:Jesus was completely filled with the Holy Spirit. The gifts of the Spirit, including the gift of tongues, were present in Him. Jesus’ life is the perfect example of a man who was in complete communion with the Father and the Spirit, and as such, He demonstrated all the spiritual gifts in their fullness. He didn’t just teach about these gifts; He embodied them. Thus, it is logical to believe that He could have spoken in tongues as part of His spiritual empowerment. The Role of the Holy Spirit:The Bible teaches that Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit for His ministry (Luke 4:14). The Holy Spirit gave Him the ability to perform miracles, heal the sick, and even speak in tongues, if needed. Jesus’ empowerment by the Holy Spirit was not just for His own sake but also as an example for His followers. The Great Commission and the Gift of Tongues:In the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), Jesus commands His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. The gift of tongues, as seen in Acts 2, was part of the divine empowerment given to the apostles to carry out this mission. Since Jesus, in Mark 16:17, explicitly mentions speaking in tongues as one of the signs of those who believe, it makes sense that He would have personally experienced this gift as part of His anointing. Unwritten Events in Scripture:John 21:25 reminds us that not everything Jesus did was written down. The Gospels record only a fraction of His life and actions. While we may not have a detailed account of Him speaking in tongues, this does not mean that He did not do so. The Holy Spirit gives us the understanding that He was fully equipped with all gifts of the Spirit, including tongues. Conclusion: In conclusion, it is reasonable to believe that Jesus spoke in tongues. His life and ministry were fully aligned with the power of the Holy Spirit, who manifested in various ways through Him, including the ability to speak in tongues. While the Bible does not explicitly record this event, it is clear from the scriptures that Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit in all its fullness, and the gifts of the Spirit, including tongues, were likely part of that anointing. Therefore, the idea that Jesus did speak in tongues is supported by the theological understanding of His divine empowerment and the evidence of the Spirit’s work in His life. This also affirms that Jesus, as the source of all spiritual gifts, passed on this gift to His followers, as seen in Mark 16:17-18. It is through Him that we receive the Holy Spirit and all His gifts, including speaking in tongues. May the Lord bless you richly.