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.
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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.
Ecclesiastes 10:15
“The toil of fools wearies them; they do not know the way to town.”
This short verse might sound humorous at first—but it’s actually a deep reflection on life, effort, and purpose. The Bible is saying that a fool works hard but without direction. They are exhausted by their own efforts because they don’t even know how to reach their goal. It’s like working for years to reach the city, only to realize you’ve been walking in the opposite direction the whole time.
In a practical sense, many people spend their lives pursuing success, wealth, or comfort. There’s nothing wrong with work or ambition—Proverbs commends diligence
(Proverbs 13:4, NIV:
“The desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”).
But Ecclesiastes warns that if your life lacks wisdom and purpose, your work becomes tiring and meaningless. It’s not just about working hard; it’s about knowing where you’re going.
The Spiritual Revelation Behind the Verse
This verse also has a profound spiritual message. For believers, “the city” symbolizes our eternal destination—the New Jerusalem. It’s the place prepared for us by God, described beautifully in Revelation.
Revelation 21:2-3
“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God… And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people…'”
Just like in the natural, working without knowing your spiritual destination is exhausting. Many live their lives full of religious activity, generosity, even morality—but still lack a relationship with Christ. They’re walking, but not toward the city.
Only Jesus is the way.
John 14:6
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Without Jesus, our efforts, good deeds, or even spiritual practices are like heading toward a city we can’t find on our own. This is why salvation through faith in Christ is essential. He doesn’t just show us the way—He is the Way.
Who Will Enter This City?
Revelation 22:14-15
“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral…”
This tells us clearly: entry into the city is only for those who have been washed—cleansed through the righteousness of Christ. It’s not about how hard you’ve worked, but whether your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 21:27).
Faith Like Abraham’s: A Heavenly Vision
Abraham, the father of faith, understood this. He didn’t live for this world alone.
Hebrews 11:10
“For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.”
Though he was wealthy and blessed, he lived like a pilgrim—because he knew his true home was with God.
Conclusion: Know the Way and Follow It
If you don’t know Christ, you are like the fool in Ecclesiastes 10:15—tired, busy, and directionless. Your effort may look impressive on the outside, but it leads nowhere spiritually. But if you follow Christ, your work gains eternal meaning.
With Jesus, your life has purpose. You’re walking toward a real destination. Every sacrifice, every act of love, every struggle becomes an investment in eternity.
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
So the question remains:
Do you know the way to the city?
Jesus is calling. Follow Him—and you’ll never labor in vain.
God bless you.
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This is a question that has puzzled many: Do angels have the ability to reproduce like humans do? Some people believe they can, often referring to the story in Genesis 6:1–3, where the “sons of God” marry the “daughters of men.”
Genesis 6:1–3
1 When human beings began to increase in number on the earth and daughters were born to them, 2 the sons of God saw that the daughters of humans were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose. 3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not contend with humans forever, for they are mortal; their days will be a hundred and twenty years.”
Some interpret the “sons of God” here to mean angels. However, sound theological interpretation shows this is not the case. The phrase “sons of God” is often used in the Old Testament to refer to godly men or descendants of Seth (Genesis 4:26), in contrast to the “daughters of men,” which may refer to ungodly descendants of Cain.
If this were referring to angels, several problems arise. First, Jesus clearly taught that angels do not marry or reproduce. In response to a question about marriage in heaven, He said:
Matthew 22:30
“At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.”
This directly implies that angels are not sexual beings like humans and do not engage in marriage or procreation.
Moreover, in Genesis 6, it is humanity that is judged for its corruption — not angels. God limits human lifespans and later brings the flood as judgment on a morally fallen human race. If angels had been involved in physical sin, as some suggest, we would expect Scripture to mention their punishment in this context — but it doesn’t.
From a theological perspective, angels are created spiritual beings (Hebrews 1:14), not subject to physical death, aging, or reproduction. They do not have physical bodies unless temporarily given one by God for a specific mission (e.g., Genesis 18; Luke 1:26–38). They were not created with reproductive capacity because they do not need to “multiply and fill the earth” like humans (Genesis 1:28).
In conclusion: Holy angels do not reproduce. They are spiritual beings, created by God for worship, service, and divine mission. They do not marry, age, or produce offspring. Their nature is fundamentally different from human nature in this respect.
Shalom.
Introduction
This proverb uses simple, earthly imagery to reveal deep spiritual truth. It reflects a principle of faithful stewardship and honor through service, which applies both in human relationships and in our relationship with God.
The verse has two parts:
Let’s explore each part in detail with theological insight and biblical support.
The first half of the verse uses agricultural imagery: if you care for a fig tree—watering it, pruning it, protecting it—you will eventually enjoy its fruit. This represents the biblical principle that diligence leads to reward.
Biblical Cross-Reference:
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” (Galatians 6:7, NKJV)
“The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.” (2 Timothy 2:6, NKJV)
Spiritual Application: In the New Testament context, the “fig tree” can symbolize Christ in us or our spiritual life. Once we receive salvation, Christ is born in us (Galatians 4:19), but His presence must be nurtured. Just as a tree grows through time and care, so must our relationship with Christ grow through:
Jesus used similar imagery in John 15:1-5, saying He is the vine and we are the branches. Without abiding in Him, we cannot bear fruit.
Those who tend to their walk with Christ—through discipline, sacrifice, and patience—will bear fruit (Galatians 5:22-23) and receive both earthly and eternal rewards.
The second part of the verse teaches that just as a servant who faithfully serves his master earns respect and promotion, so too the one who serves God will be honored.
If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.” (John 12:26, NKJV)
“Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” (Matthew 25:21, NKJV)
Serving God faithfully brings honor not only from people but from God Himself. This service may include:
True service is not based on outward performance but on obedience and faithfulness to God’s calling in your life.
Proverbs 27:18 reminds us that the Christian life is a process of cultivation and service. The reward (fruit or honor) does not come instantly. It comes through consistency, discipline, and faithfulness.
We are called to tend the spiritual “fig tree” within us—our relationship with Christ—and to serve our divine Master with humility and diligence. In doing so, we not only bear fruit, but we are also positioned for honor—both in this life and in the life to come.
Final Encouragement: Let us be diligent caretakers of the life of Christ in us, and faithful servants in His kingdom. For in due season,
“we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9, NKJV)
Bible Text:
“So Jesus said to them, ‘The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going.’” — John 12:35
In this passage, Jesus is nearing the end of His earthly ministry. He is speaking prophetically, not just about the literal end of His time on earth, but about the urgency of believing in Him while the opportunity still exists.
He refers to Himself as “the Light”—a common theme throughout the Gospel of John:
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” — John 8:12
Jesus, the Light, came into a dark world full of sin, confusion, and spiritual blindness (John 1:5). His presence brought truth, hope, and the way to salvation. But He warned His listeners that this Light would not be available forever.
Theologically, “light” represents revelation, holiness, life, and the very presence of God (cf. Isaiah 9:2; Psalm 27:1). Jesus fulfills the Old Testament imagery of light. For example:
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Jesus, the incarnate Word (John 1:1), is this guiding Light.
By saying “the light is with you a little while longer,” He was telling them: “You still have a window of grace. Believe in Me now before the chance is gone.”
Jesus’ words emphasize a sobering reality: grace is available for a time, but not forever.
“My Spirit shall not strive with man forever.” — Genesis 6:3
During His time on earth, Jesus extended grace primarily to the Jewish people (Matthew 15:24). Many believed—but many more rejected, envied, or dismissed Him. Still, His compassion persisted:
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem… how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.” — Luke 13:34
Yet Jesus warned them: the Light would soon move on.
And it did. After His resurrection and ascension, the gospel began to spread to the Gentiles:
“Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: ‘We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it… we now turn to the Gentiles.’” — Acts 13:46
Paul affirms this shift in Romans 11:
“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters… Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved…” — Romans 11:25–26
Here we learn:
This aligns with the divine pattern: God’s Light moves, but it doesn’t stay forever where it is rejected.
Like the sun moves from east to west, so does the gospel. It shines in one region for a time, and then moves on. This was true for Israel. It is true for us.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.” — Isaiah 55:6
If you reject the Light now, darkness will eventually overtake you. And once you’re in darkness, you won’t know where you’re going (John 12:35). This is not just ignorance—it’s spiritual lostness.
Jesus is calling:
“Walk while you have the light.” Believe in Him while grace is still extended to you.
Because if you keep resisting, that Light may move on.
“The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going.” — John 12:35
Are you walking in the Light of Christ? Or are you delaying your decision?
If you haven’t yet come to Jesus:
Because without Him, you cannot overcome the darkness—not now, not in eternity.
“Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” — John 12:36
Though you grind a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with crushed grain, yet his foolishness will not depart from him.”(proverbs 27:22)
In this proverb, Solomon uses a vivid and ancient image. A mortar and pestle were common household tools used to crush grain into flour or soften tough plant materials. The idea is that intense pressure or punishment — even as extreme as grinding grain — cannot remove the foolishness from a fool.
This proverb isn’t just about stubborn behavior; it speaks to the spiritual and moral condition of a person. It highlights the depth and persistence of sin in the human heart.
In Scripture, the term “fool” doesn’t simply mean someone who lacks intelligence. It refers to someone who rejects God, resists wisdom, and persists in sin. Below are some characteristics of a biblical fool:
Denies God’s existence:“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” (Psalm 14:1)
Loves conflict:“A foolish woman is clamorous; she is simple, and knows nothing.” (Proverbs 9:13)
Takes pleasure in evil:“To do evil is like sport to a fool…” (Proverbs 10:23)
Trusts only in their own opinion:“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes…” (Proverbs 12:15)
s arrogant and prideful:“In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride…” (Proverbs 14:3)
Despises correction:“A fool despises his father’s instruction…” (Proverbs 15:5)
In essence, foolishness in the Bible is not just intellectual — it’s spiritual. It is the result of a heart disconnected from God and dominated by sin.
Solomon teaches that no amount of external force — be it punishment, education, or social reform — can change the core nature of a fool. This is because sin is not merely a behavior but a condition of the heart (Jeremiah 17:9).
Examples in real life and Scripture show this:
All these demonstrate that external solutions cannot fix an internal problem.
The only lasting solution is found in the transformative power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
John 1:12 (NKJV):“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”
Receiving Christ gives a person a new identity and spiritual power to change.
Ezekiel 36:26-27 (NKJV):“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you… I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes.”
This is not behavior modification — it is heart transformation by God Himself.
Romans 6:6 (NKJV):“Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him… that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”
Christ frees us from the power and penalty of sin — the root of foolishness.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV):“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
This ongoing transformation is the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life.
The Bible outlines a clear response to God’s offer of transformation:
Proverbs 27:22 is a sobering reminder that human effort cannot change the sinful heart. No discipline, pressure, or worldly wisdom can make a fool wise. But through Christ, even the most hardened heart can be renewed.
Only Jesus can remove foolishness at its root — by changing the heart.
May you seek Him with your whole heart and experience the transformation only He can bring.
The Lord bless you.
“Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest.” – Proverbs 26:2, NIV
This proverb offers profound wisdom on spiritual and emotional resilience. It teaches that not all words spoken against us carry power—particularly when they are baseless. The verse compares an undeserved curse to birds flitting in the air: constantly moving, seemingly busy, yet never settling or causing harm. Similarly, a curse without cause has no lasting effect on a person who is upright before God.
A curse is a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment. In biblical terms, curses are either just (when God allows consequences for sin) or unjust (when people speak harm out of malice or fear).
Proverbs 26:2 reassures us that unjust or baseless curses are ineffective. Just as sparrows and swallows flutter about aimlessly, so do these curses—they don’t land or take effect. God protects His people from words spoken without a righteous cause.
a. Goliath’s Curse on David
“He said to David, ‘Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?’ And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.” – 1 Samuel 17:43, NIV
Despite cursing David in the name of his gods, Goliath was defeated. Why? Because David was under God’s covenant protection. Goliath’s curse had no spiritual authority over him.
b. Balaam’s Attempt to Curse Israel
“But how can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce those whom the Lord has not denounced?” – Numbers 23:8, NIV
Balaam, a pagan prophet hired to curse Israel, could not curse them because God had blessed them. This is a powerful theological truth: what God blesses, no one can curse (see Numbers 23:20).
There are instances in Scripture where curses took effect—but always for a reason tied to disobedience or mockery of God’s authority.
Elisha and the Mocking Youths:
“He turned around, looked at them and called down a curse on them in the name of the Lord. Then two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys.” – 2 Kings 2:24, NIV
This judgment was not arbitrary. The boys weren’t simply teasing—they were mocking God’s prophet, showing contempt for divine authority.
This illustrates that a curse may have power when there is cause—especially if it aligns with divine justice. But random insults or threats, especially those spoken against God’s children, are powerless unless God permits it.
For those in Christ, we are no longer under the curse of the Law, but under grace.
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us…” – Galatians 3:13, NIV
This means believers are covered by the finished work of Jesus. No curse—whether from humans, demons, or tradition—can override the blessings and promises of God.
Sadly, many Christians live in fear due to curses pronounced by traditional elders, witch doctors, or even family members. But these should be seen for what they are: baseless threats, like fluttering birds.
“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord…” – Isaiah 54:17, NIV
As children of God, we are not vulnerable to every spoken word. Our identity and protection come from God, not from superstitions or human intimidation.
If you are saved through Christ, you are secure. You do not need to fear curses without cause. You are:
So stand firm in your faith, reject fear, and live in the peace that comes from knowing who you are in Christ.
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Greetings in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ! Let us learn the words of life together.
You and I, as the Scriptures say, are “God’s workmanship.” Because this is true, it means we were created with a purpose—to fulfill a particular role here on earth. When you see a car, you say, “This is a man’s work, not a goat’s.” Since it is man’s work, there is a purpose for it—to transport people or goods quickly and efficiently.
Similarly, when you see a house, you recognize it was built for people to rest in—not just made randomly without purpose. Even a bird’s nest is crafted by the bird to provide shelter, not to be discarded as trash.
In the same way, we are God’s workmanship, created for a purpose: to do good works. God made us to accomplish His will. No other creature can fulfill this role except humans, made in His image and recreated in Christ.
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) makes it clear: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Here we see several deep theological truths:
Jesus commands us to love even our enemies, a kind of love that goes beyond natural human affection. Matthew 5:43-48 (ESV) says: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you… so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.”
This agape love is unconditional and self-sacrificial, reflecting God’s own love (1 John 4:8).
Jesus warned that unless our righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:20). This righteousness comes not from legalism but from the transforming work of the Holy Spirit within us (Romans 8:4). We are called to be holy because God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). Sanctification is a lifelong process where we die to sin and live to God.
Evangelism is one of the good works God prepared for us. Jesus commissioned His followers to preach the gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Sharing the good news is essential to the mission of the Church and our individual calling.
Faith is foundational to pleasing God (Hebrews 11:6). It is by faith that we trust God’s promises and power. Genuine faith produces action and perseverance.
Prayer is our ongoing communication with God, expressing dependence and worship. Jesus Himself prayed often and taught His disciples to pray (Luke 11:1-4). Prayer empowers us to do God’s will and aligns our hearts with His.
Jesus prayed for the unity of believers so the world would believe in Him (John 17:21). Unity in the body of Christ is a sign of the Spirit’s work and a powerful testimony.
To walk in good works means living a life that reflects these realities daily. It is not about occasional acts of kindness but a consistent lifestyle empowered by the Holy Spirit.
We cannot do this by our own strength; it is the Spirit who empowers us to overcome sin and live righteously (Galatians 5:16-17). When we yield to the Spirit, we bear fruit that honors God.
Remember: You are God’s masterpiece, created anew in Christ to do the good works He planned for you long ago. Embrace your identity, live out your purpose, and let your life be a testimony of His transforming power.
2 Timothy 2:20-21 (ESV) “In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.”
May the Lord bless and strengthen you as you walk in your divine calling.
QUESTION: Why did God, in the Old Testament, forbid people with physical disabilities from serving at His altar? If God shows no favoritism, why did He give such a command?
Leviticus 21:16–24 explains that anyone from the priestly line of Aaron who had a physical defect—such as blindness, lameness, deformities, or skin conditions—was not allowed to approach the altar or offer sacrifices, although they could still partake in the sacred offerings.
ANSWER: The Old Testament served as a physical representation or shadow of the spiritual realities that would be revealed later through the New Covenant (Colossians 2:17). The ceremonial laws and practices of the Old Testament, including dietary laws, festivals, and Sabbaths, were not the ultimate reality but rather a foreshadowing of something greater. This concept is echoed in Hebrews 10:1, where the law is described as a shadow of the good things to come, not the realities themselves.
Because the Old Covenant was physical, many of its laws and instructions were meant to help people understand deeper spiritual truths. These physical examples made it easier for people to grasp the spiritual meanings that would later be revealed in Christ. However, those physical laws weren’t God’s final or complete plan.
Think of it like teaching a child math. You don’t just tell them “1 + 3 = 4.” Instead, you give them sticks to count. You give them one stick, then three more, and help them count to four. At that stage, they think math is about sticks. But as they grow, they realize that the sticks were just tools to help them understand the concept. Real math is in the mind, not in the sticks.
In the same way, when God first began revealing His plan, He used physical laws to teach spiritual truths. For example, Israelites were forbidden to eat pigs—not because pigs are dirty, but because pigs don’t chew the cud. Spiritually, this was a symbol. Animals that chew the cud (like cows) bring up what they’ve eaten, chew it again, and swallow it. Spiritually, this symbolizes remembering and meditating on what God has done or taught us. People who don’t reflect like this are like pigs—they forget God’s past faithfulness.
The Israelites showed this kind of spiritual “uncleanness” after crossing the Red Sea. They quickly forgot God’s miracles and complained about food. But David, when facing Goliath, remembered how God had saved him from lions and bears. That gave him faith and strength. He “chewed the cud,” spiritually speaking—he reflected on God’s faithfulness.
Now let’s go back to the question about physical disabilities and the altar.
Only Levites—the descendants of the tribe of Levi—were allowed to serve in the temple. No one from any other tribe, no matter how devoted or gifted, could serve. Even among the Levites, if someone had a physical defect, they were not allowed to offer sacrifices. So it wasn’t just people with disabilities who were restricted—many others were as well.
Why did God do this?
Because He was painting a spiritual picture: those who serve at His altar should be spiritually whole—without defect in heart or character. God wasn’t rejecting people with physical disabilities; He was using this as a symbol to teach that His servants must be spiritually mature and pure.
That’s why, when we move into the New Testament, we see Jesus welcoming the blind, the lame, and the sick. He heals them, dines with them, and loves them (Mark 14:3). God isn’t concerned with physical limitations—He’s concerned with the heart. A spiritually broken or defiled heart is what makes someone unclean before Him.
Have you found healing for the spiritual “leprosy” or “widowhood” within you? (These are symbols of spiritual separation or uncleanness.)
There are many people with physical disabilities whom God has allowed to remain that way for a reason. Some serve God in powerful ways—healing others, sharing the gospel, and performing miracles. You might wonder, “Why doesn’t God heal them?” But remember: God’s thoughts are not like ours. For example, the prophet Elisha died from an illness, but his bones still brought a dead man back to life!
Check out this testimony: >>> Testimony of Ricky (a reference to an inspiring story of someone serving God powerfully despite disability)
All of this teaches us that today, in God’s eyes, there is no male or female, no slave or free, no able-bodied or disabled—we are all priests through Jesus Christ. His sacrifice gives all believers access to God’s presence.
Hallelujah! His love for us is beyond words.
Shalom. Please share this message with others—it’s good news for all.