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Why did the Jews say to Jesus that they had never been slaves to anyone, even though we know they were enslaved in Egypt for 400 years?

ANSWER:
Let’s read the context from John 8:31–36 (NKJV):

31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.
32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
33 They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”
34 Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.
35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.
36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”

The response of these Jews—“We have never been in bondage to anyone”—was clearly untrue from a historical standpoint. The Old Testament is full of accounts showing that the Israelites were, in fact, enslaved and oppressed multiple times:

  • In Egypt, for over 400 years (Exodus 1:8–14)

  • In Babylon, during the exile (2 Kings 24–25)

  • Under the Assyrians, especially the Northern Kingdom (2 Kings 17)

  • Under Persian, Greek, and Roman domination, even in Jesus’ time

So why did they claim they had never been enslaved?

The answer lies not in historical accuracy but in pride and resistance to Jesus’ message. They were not honestly engaging in discussion but rather trying to contradict and discredit Jesus. Their statement reflects a spiritual blindness and arrogance—they were proud of being Abraham’s physical descendants and assumed that this heritage guaranteed their freedom and favor with God.

Yet Jesus wasn’t talking about political or physical bondage, but about spiritual slavery to sin. That’s why He said in verse 34, “Whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.” According to Scripture, all people are born into sin (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23), and only through Jesus can one be truly set free.

When they continued to argue and even accused Jesus of being a Samaritan and demon-possessed (John 8:48), it showed their hearts were hardened. They were not seeking truth, but rather defending their pride and position—even through lies. Ironically, they knew Jesus was a Jew, the son of Joseph the carpenter (Matthew 13:55), and they even called Him “Rabbi” (John 3:2) at other times. But here, in their rejection, they resorted to slander.

That is why Jesus responded strongly in John 8:44:

“You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”

Jesus exposed the true source of their rebellion: Satan, the father of lies.

What does this teach us today?

It teaches us the importance of loving the truth and abiding in God’s Word. If we reject the truth, we become vulnerable to lies—even to the point of opposing God unknowingly. Like the Jews in this passage, people can be outwardly religious but spiritually enslaved.

Only Jesus Christ can set us free—not from human oppressors, but from the deeper bondage of sin, guilt, shame, and eternal death. When we accept Him, we move from being slaves to being children of God (Romans 8:15–17).

Personal Reflection:

Are you truly free? Have you been set free by the Son? These are the last days, and the spirit of the antichrist is already at work in those who reject Christ (1 John 2:18–22). The temptations and distractions of this world cannot save us—they enslave us further. But Jesus came to break those chains.

If you are ready to give your life to Christ and experience true freedom, reach out to us at +255693036618 or +255789001312 for free spiritual guidance.

May the Lord bless you and lead you into His truth.

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LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PERSECUTE YOU

 

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PERSECUTE YOU
(A Call to Christlike Perfection)

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Let us take time today to meditate on the living words of God—a truth that challenges our human nature but reveals the heart of our Heavenly Father.

When we look at the life of Jesus, we see the perfect example of someone completely loved and trusted by the Father. Scripture tells us: 

  John 3:35

“The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand.”

Jesus performed countless miracles, healed the sick, cast out demons, raised the dead, and taught with unmatched authority. John even wrote that:    

John 21:25,

“And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.”


But what set Jesus apart was not only His power or miracles—but His heart. He revealed mysteries of the Kingdom that had been hidden for generations. As He told His disciples:   

Luke 10:24

“For I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”

One of those kingdom mysteries—simple to hear but difficult to live—is the command to love our enemies.

Jesus said:

Mathew 5:44

“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

At first glance, I thought I understood this command. But as life unfolded, I realized how far I was from practicing it. When people offended me, I may have said I forgave them—but I didn’t pray for them. I avoided them. My forgiveness was partial and self-protective.

But Christ calls us to a higher standard—one that mirrors the heart of the Father. It’s not enough to say, “I forgive you,” and then create distance. Kingdom forgiveness goes further: it involves intercession and love in action. This is what it means to walk in the Spirit.

Let’s look to Jesus Himself. He didn’t just teach this principle—He lived it out even with His betrayer, Judas Iscariot. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him (John 6:64), yet He kept him close, gave him authority to preach and cast out demons (Luke 9:1-2), and even referred to him as “friend” at the moment of betrayal:

Matthew 26 :50

“But Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, why have you come?’”

Imagine that. Even in betrayal, Jesus still addressed Judas with compassion. When He washed the disciples’ feet (John 13), Judas was among them. Jesus offered Judas every opportunity for repentance. That’s grace. That’s divine love.

Now ask yourself: Can you love like that?
Can we, as born-again believers, love those who offend us? Can we intercede for those who gossip about us, manipulate us, or oppose us?

This is what Christ meant when He said: 

Matthew 5 : 48

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

This kind of love reflects the very nature of God:

Mathew 5:45

“…for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.”

God is merciful even to the ungrateful. Paul reminds us:

Romans 5:8, NKJV

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Before we were saved, we too were enemies of God (Romans 5:10). Yet He showed us mercy. How then can we deny that same mercy to others?

If it’s a co-worker, neighbor, or fellow believer who constantly offends you—don’t only forgive—pray for them. Don’t retaliate or hold grudges. Paul teaches: 

Romans 17- 21

“Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men… Beloved, do not avenge yourselves… If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This is spiritual maturity. This is Christlikeness.

But let us be honest: loving enemies is impossible in our own strength. It requires the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God deeply rooted in our hearts. The fruit of the Spirit—love, patience, kindness—grows only in surrendered hearts (Galatians 5:22-23).

When we walk this way, God draws nearer. Jesus said:

John 14 : 21

“He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”

A Pastoral Warning:

Beware of teachings or “deliverance ministries” that encourage calling down Holy Ghost fire on your enemies to destroy them. This contradicts the Spirit of Christ. When James and John wanted to call down fire on a Samaritan village, Jesus rebuked them:   

Luke 9: 55-56

“You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.”

Such teachings nurture bitterness and vengeance—fruits of the flesh, not the Holy Spirit.

Instead, choose the hard but holy way—love your enemies, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who persecute you. This is the narrow road that leads to the heart of God.

Let us pray:
Father, fill our hearts with Your love. Teach us to love not only our friends but also our enemies. Help us to overcome evil with good, to walk in mercy and truth, and to reflect the perfect love of Christ. Amen.

God bless you richly.

Shalom.

 

 

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Who Wrote the Book of Psalms?

Understanding the Authorship and Theological Depth of the Psalms
(Scripture references from the New International Version – NIV)

The Book of Psalms is a sacred anthology of prayers, hymns, laments, and praises to God. It is the longest book in the Bible and was written over a span of more than a thousand years. Its multiple contributors reflect a rich diversity of spiritual experience and theology, expressing deep human emotion while focusing on God’s sovereignty, mercy, justice, and faithfulness.

1. King David – The Principal Author (73–75 Psalms)

David, described as “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14), is the most prolific contributor to the Psalms. His writings reflect a deep, personal relationship with God. David’s Psalms often include themes of repentance (Psalm 51), trust (Psalm 23), worship (Psalm 63), and messianic prophecy (Psalm 22).

Confirmed Davidic Psalms: Psalms 3–9, 11–32, 34–41, 51–65, 68–70, 86, 101, 103, 108–110, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138–145 (Total: 73)

Additional Attributed Psalms:

Psalm 2 – Referenced in Acts 4:25 as being written by David:
“You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage…’” (Acts 4:25)

Psalm 95 – Attributed to David in Hebrews 4:7:
“God again set a certain day, calling it ‘Today.’ This he did when a long time later he spoke through David…” (Hebrews 4:7)

Thus, many scholars agree David likely wrote 75 Psalms.

2. Solomon – The Wise King (2 Psalms)

Solomon, renowned for his wisdom (1 Kings 4:29–34), composed two Psalms:

  • Psalm 72 – A royal psalm about the ideal king.
  • Psalm 127 – A reflection on God’s providence in human effort and family life.

3. Moses – The Prophet and Lawgiver (1 Psalm)

Psalm 90 – “A prayer of Moses, the man of God” – This Psalm stands out for its emphasis on God’s eternity and man’s frailty.
“Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:2)

4. Asaph and His Family – Worship Leaders (12 Psalms)

Asaph was appointed by David as a chief musician (1 Chronicles 16:5). He and his descendants wrote Psalms expressing worship, lament, and national history.

  • Psalms 50, 73–83

5. Sons of Korah – Temple Singers (11 Psalms)

These Levites, descendants of Korah, served in the temple as singers (2 Chronicles 20:19). Their Psalms focus on God’s presence, trust, and refuge.

  • Psalms 42, 44–49, 84–85, 87–88

6. Ethan the Ezrahite – Man of Wisdom (1 Psalm)

Psalm 89 – A reflection on God’s covenant with David, though lamenting its apparent failure.

1 Kings 4:31 notes Ethan’s wisdom:
“He was wiser than anyone else—including Ethan the Ezrahite…”

7. Heman the Ezrahite – Worship Leader (1 Psalm)

  • Psalm 88 – Known as one of the darkest Psalms, expressing deep despair yet still addressed to God.
  • Also mentioned in 1 Kings 4:31 alongside Ethan.

8. Anonymous Authors – (48 Psalms)

These Psalms do not include an author’s name. Despite this, they carry profound theological messages of God’s justice, kingship, deliverance, and covenant faithfulness.

Summary Table of Psalm Authorship

Theological Significance of the Psalms

  • Christ-Centered Prophecy: Many Psalms, especially those of David, point prophetically to the Messiah (e.g., Psalm 22, Psalm 110).
  • Worship & Devotion: Psalms form the foundation of Jewish and Christian worship, emphasizing praise, prayer, and dependence on God.
  • Human Emotion: The Psalms embrace a full range of human experience—joy, fear, sorrow, repentance, and hope—expressed through faith.
  • God’s Nature: They affirm God’s holiness, love, sovereignty, justice, and covenant faithfulness.

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” – Psalm 150:6 (NIV)

May the Lord bless you as you read and meditate on His Word.

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What Was a Sabbath Day’s Journey According to the Bible?

(Acts 1:12  NKJV)

The phrase “Sabbath day’s journey” appears only once in the Bible:

Acts 1:12 (NKJV): “Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey.”

This term refers to a specific distance that Jews were traditionally allowed to travel on the Sabbath without violating the commandment to rest.

Understanding the Distance

A Sabbath day’s journey was approximately 2,000 cubits, which is roughly 0.6 miles or about 1 kilometer. This limit was not explicitly stated in the Mosaic Law but was established by Jewish rabbinical tradition based on interpretations of Scripture.

Biblical Basis and Rabbinical Interpretation

The foundational scripture often cited for the travel restriction is:

Exodus 16:29 (NKJV):
“See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the sixth day bread for two days. Let every man remain in his place; let no man go out of his place on the seventh day.”

From this, rabbis inferred that there was a need for a restriction on how far someone could walk. They reasoned that the phrase “his place” referred to the limits of one’s community or dwelling area.

To determine a reasonable boundary, they referred to:

Numbers 35:4–5 (NKJV):
“The common-land of the cities which you will give the Levites shall extend from the wall of the city outward a thousand cubits all around… You shall measure outside the city on the east side two thousand cubits… the city shall be in the middle. This shall belong to them as common-land for the cities.”

Here, the 2,000 cubits defined a boundary area around a city. Rabbis concluded that this served as a reasonable limit for Sabbath travel  thus, the origin of the “Sabbath day’s journey.”

Why Was the Limit Important?

The purpose behind this travel restriction was spiritual and communal. The Sabbath (Hebrew: Shabbat) was instituted by God as a day of rest and worship, commemorating His rest after creation (Genesis 2:2–3) and later enshrined in the Ten Commandments:

Exodus 20:8–10 (NKJV):
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy… In it you shall do no work…”

The Sabbath was a covenant sign between God and Israel (Exodus 31:13), meant to refocus attention on worship, reflection, and rest. Limiting travel kept people near their homes, synagogues, or community gathering places minimizing distractions and worldly activities.

New Testament Context

In Acts 1:12, the apostles returned from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem after witnessing Jesus’ ascension. Luke notes the distance as “a Sabbath day’s journey” to show it was a short and allowable walk under Jewish law, roughly 0.6 miles.

This detail reflects the Jewish context of the early church and Luke’s intention to tie the narrative to familiar Jewish customs for his readers.

Spiritual Application for Believers Today

While Christians are no longer bound by the Old Testament Sabbath laws (see Colossians 2:16–17; Romans 14:5–6), the principle of setting apart a day for rest and worship remains valuable.

Colossians 2:16–17 (NKJV):
“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.”

Hebrews 4:9–10 (NKJV):
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His.”

Today, many Christians regard Sunday as the Lord’s Day (Revelation 1:10), commemorating Jesus’ resurrection. It is not a day for aimless wandering or commercial pursuits, but a time to remain in God’s presence, engage in worship, fellowship, learning, and service.

Practical Encouragement

Let each believer today consider their own “Sabbath journey”  not in terms of physical distance, but in terms of spiritual focus. Avoid unnecessary distractions on the Lord’s Day. Prioritize:

  • Attending church and corporate worship (Hebrews 10:25)
  • Engaging in Bible study and teaching
  • Participating in fellowship and Christian service
  • Resting in God’s presence, physically and spiritually

Let Sunday not be just another busy day, but a holy interruption in our week where we align ourselves with God’s heart.

Shalom. Remain near to God on His day.

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Why Are the Books of the Bible Arranged That Way?

QUESTION: Why are the books of the Bible arranged in their current order and not differently?

1. The Nature of the Biblical Canon

The order of books in the Bible was not explicitly dictated by God. Rather, the structure we have today is the result of historical, theological, and literary decisions made by Jewish and early Christian communities. While the books themselves are divinely inspired (2 Timothy 3:16, ESV), the order is a human arrangement designed to aid comprehension and study.

There is no biblical mandate that Genesis must come before Exodus or that Romans must be the first of Paul’s letters. The current order helps readers follow the unfolding story of redemption and provides thematic clarity.

2. The Old Testament (Tanakh vs. Protestant Canon)

Jewish (Hebrew Bible) Canon  Tanakh:

  • Consists of 24 books, grouped into:
    • Torah (Law)
    • Nevi’im (Prophets)
    • Ketuvim (Writings)

Protestant Old Testament:

  • Contains 39 books, but these are the same books as the Jewish Tanakh  just arranged and divided differently.

For example:

  • 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles = single books in the Hebrew canon.
  • Ezra and Nehemiah = one book.
  • The 12 Minor Prophets = one book in Hebrew, but separated in Protestant Bibles.

The Protestant order divides the Old Testament as follows:

a) The Law (Pentateuch)

  1. Genesis
  2. Exodus
  3. Leviticus
  4. Numbers
  5. Deuteronomy

These form the foundation of the biblical narrative and law  the Torah  foundational for Judaism and Christianity alike (see Matthew 5:17).

b) Historical Books

  1. Joshua
  2. Judges
  3. Ruth
  4. 1 Samuel
  5. 2 Samuel
  6. 1 Kings
  7. 2 Kings
  8. 1 Chronicles
  9. 2 Chronicles
  10. Ezra
  11. Nehemiah
  12. Esther

These document the history of Israel from conquest to exile and restoration.

c) Wisdom and Poetry

  1. Job
  2. Psalms
  3. Proverbs
  4. Ecclesiastes
  5. Song of Solomon

These books are more philosophical, devotional, and poetic in nature.

d) Major Prophets (Longer writings)

  1. Isaiah
  2. Jeremiah
  3. Lamentations
  4. Ezekiel
  5. Daniel

Called “major” due to their length, not status.

e) Minor Prophets (Shorter writings)

  1. Hosea through 39. Malachi

Note: “Minor” does not mean less important. Each prophet delivered a vital message of repentance, justice, and hope in God’s coming Messiah.

3. The New Testament (27 Books)

The New Testament was written between approximately 45–95 AD and is grouped by literary genre and theme  not chronologically.

a) The Gospels (Narratives of Jesus’ Life)

  1. Matthew
  2. Mark
  3. Luke
  4. John

These give complementary accounts of Jesus’ birth, ministry, death, and resurrection.

  • Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) share similar perspectives.
  • John offers a more theological reflection on Jesus’ identity (John 1:1–14).

b) Historical Book

  1. Acts of the Apostles
  • Written by Luke as a continuation of his Gospel (Acts 1:1–2).
  • Documents the early Church and the spread of the Gospel.

c) Paul’s Epistles (Letters to Churches and Individuals)

  1. Romans through 18. Philemon

These are arranged by length, not date or importance.

  • Romans is longest and doctrinally dense (Romans 1:16–17).
  • 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus (called Pastoral Epistles) offer guidance on church leadership and doctrine.

d) General Epistles (Catholic Epistles)

  1. Hebrews (authorship debated)
  2. James
  3. 1 Peter
  4. 2 Peter
  5. 1 John
  6. 2 John
  7. 3 John
  8. Jude

These are written to broader audiences, dealing with faith, endurance, and false teaching.

e) Prophetic Book

  1. Revelation
  • Written by John while in exile on Patmos.
  • A highly symbolic vision of the end times, the return of Christ, and the final victory of God (Revelation 21–22).

4. Bible Versions and Canons

a) Protestant Bible  66 books

  • Based on the Hebrew canon for the Old Testament.
  • Deuterocanonical books (Apocrypha) are excluded.

b) Catholic Bible  73 books

  • Includes Deuterocanonical books, such as Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, 1 & 2 Maccabees, etc.
  • These books are found in the Septuagint (LXX), a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, used widely in the early Church.
  • Protestants do not consider them inspired, as they were not part of the Hebrew canon and contain theological inconsistencies (e.g., prayers for the dead in 2 Maccabees 12:45–46).

c) Orthodox Bible  76–80 books (depending on tradition)

  • Includes additional texts beyond the Catholic Deuterocanon.

5. Is the Order Important?

While the order helps readers navigate the storyline of Scripture  from Creation (Genesis) to Consummation (Revelation)  you are not required to read the Bible in that sequence.

  • The Holy Spirit can lead believers to different parts at different times (John 14:26).
  • Scripture is cohesive and Christ centered regardless of where you begin (Luke 24:27).

The Bible’s arrangement was designed to help us better understand God’s unfolding plan of salvation. It’s divided into books of law, history, wisdom, prophecy, gospel, letters, and apocalyptic vision  all pointing to Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14).

Our Protestant Bible contains 66 inspired books. Other additions found in Catholic or Orthodox Bibles are not universally accepted due to questions about their inspiration and consistency with core doctrine.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  Psalm 119:105 (ESV)

May the Lord bless your study of His Word.

Shalom.

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What is a pulpit, and how is it different from an altar?

In the Christian context, both the pulpit and the altar play important roles in worship, but they serve different spiritual purposes.

What is a Pulpit?

The pulpit is a raised platform or stand in the church from which the Word of God is proclaimed. It is a place of instruction, exhortation, and revelation—where God speaks to His people through the preacher. This is grounded in Romans 10:14–15, which emphasizes the importance of preaching:

“And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?”

The pulpit represents the prophetic voice in the church—it is where truth is declared, faith is built (Romans 10:17), and the church is edified.

It is not just a platform; it is a sacred responsibility. Standing there requires reverence, spiritual preparation, and submission to God’s Word. Misusing the pulpit for personal agendas or secular topics dilutes its divine purpose.

What is an Altar?

The altar, in biblical terms, is a place of sacrifice, prayer, and divine encounter. In the Old Testament, altars were places where sacrifices were made to God (Genesis 8:20, Exodus 20:24). In the New Covenant, the physical sacrifices are replaced by spiritual ones:

“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1)

In church today, the altar is symbolically the place where believers come to meet with God, to repent, to offer thanksgiving, to worship, and to receive grace—especially through sacraments like Communion.

The front area of the church is often referred to as “the altar,” but spiritually speaking, the entire worship space can be viewed as God’s altar because God’s presence dwells among His people (Matthew 18:20).

Key Differences:

  • The Pulpit is for speaking to God’s people on behalf of God (Prophetic/Teaching role).
  • The Altar is for speaking to God on behalf of oneself or the people (Priestly role).

The pulpit is a place of declaration.
The altar is a place of surrender.

Guidelines for Ministers at the Pulpit:

  • Stay centered on the Word—avoid worldly distractions like politics or self-promotion.
  • Be prepared in prayer and study (2 Timothy 2:15).
  • Remember that you are a vessel—let Christ be exalted, not yourself (Galatians 2:20).

Guidelines for Believers at the Altar:

  • Approach with a pure heart; reconcile with others if needed (Matthew 5:23–24).
  • Be reverent—your clothing, behavior, and attitude should reflect honor to God.
  • Participate actively and attentively in worship (Psalm 95:6).
  • Don’t treat the altar like a routine place—it’s a sacred space for transformation.

Final Thought:

Let us honor both the pulpit and the altar. One speaks from God to us. The other is where we speak to God. Both are vital to a healthy and vibrant church life.

May the Lord bless you as you serve and worship Him faithfully.

Feel free to share this message and let it edify others as well!

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DON’T AVOID FELLOWSHIP WITH THE ALTAR OF CHRIST

Fellowship is more than just spending time together—it is a spiritual practice that deeply shapes who we become. The term fellowship comes from the idea of sharing, and whatever you consistently share in, you begin to absorb its nature. This spiritual law applies in both the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness.

The Principle of Fellowship in the Spiritual Realm

Many people don’t realize that the term witchcraft is derived from—to participate or share in something. Those involved in witchcraft are actually partaking in spiritual fellowship with demonic powers. Why? To receive spiritual influence—whether it’s power, success, or favor—through unholy means.

For example, a person may visit a witchdoctor to get a charm or potion intended to attract customers to their business. What’s really happening is spiritual fellowship with a demonic spirit. That spirit may bring some temporary success, but in the end, it turns against the person. Why? Because the devil’s ultimate mission is to “steal, kill and destroy” (John 10:10). Without participating in that fellowship, the demonic influence wouldn’t take effect.

Fellowship in God’s Kingdom Works the Same—But in Righteousness

This same principle works in the Kingdom of God, but in a holy and life-giving way. If you’re in the church but only attend passively—coming and going without truly connecting to God or His people—you’re not partaking in the spiritual strength and character that comes through godly fellowship.

When we actively engage in the life of the church, we begin to take on the nature of Christ. As Paul wrote in Romans 8:29

“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…”

This transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in fellowship.

Three Key Aspects of Christian Fellowship

  1. Serving the Body of Christ
    When you serve in church—whether by teaching, cleaning, giving, building, or helping in any way—you’re not just doing a job; you’re engaging in spiritual partnership with God’s people. In doing so, you receive spiritual strength, encouragement, and growth.

    1 Corinthians 12:27  says:

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”

  1. The Lord’s Table (Holy Communion)
    Communion is not just a ritual—it’s a profound act of spiritual fellowship with Christ. Paul explains this powerfully:

    1 Corinthians 10:16–17

“Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.”

Taking communion unites us with Christ and with one another. Jesus emphasized this in John 6:53

“Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.”

2.Washing One Another’s Feet (Humility and Love)

Jesus modeled servant-hearted fellowship by washing His disciples’ feet. When we serve others humbly, we receive grace to love more deeply and genuinely.

John 13:14–15 
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Why Fellowship Is Essential to Spiritual Growth

The Christian life isn’t meant to be lived alone. If you want to grow in the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness (Galatians 5:22–23)—you must remain in regular, active fellowship with Christ and His body, the Church.

The early Church is our model. After 3,000 people were saved on the day of Pentecost, Scripture tells us:

Acts 2:42

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

They didn’t just attend church—they built lives of deep, shared community rooted in Christ.

So don’t avoid the fellowship of the Lord.
It’s not just beneficial—it’s vital. It brings life, transformation, and spiritual power. Outside of that fellowship, we remain spiritually disconnected and weak. But within it, we grow strong in Christ and reflect His nature to the world.

May the Lord bless you and draw you deeper into fellowship with Him and His Church.

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Let’s Find One Voice and Build God’s Tower

Greetings in the glorious name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I invite you to reflect on these life-giving words.

Today, I want to share a powerful truth from the Bible that, if embraced, can bring great transformation to our world. Many assume that people today are more intelligent than those who lived long ago. However, Scripture and history reveal that ancient peoples accomplished remarkable feats—such as the pyramids of Egypt (one of the ancient wonders)—that modern technology still cannot replicate. This shows that God’s providence and human unity can produce extraordinary outcomes.

The Tower of Babel: Unity and Pride

In Genesis 11:1-9 , we read the story of Babylon and the Tower of Babel. The people spoke one language and decided to build a city and a tower “with its top in the heavens” to make a name for themselves (Gen 11:4). Their goal was self-glorification and unity under their own terms.

This reflects human pride and rebellion against God (cf. Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction…”). Their unity was powerful but misdirected because it sought to exalt human achievement instead of honoring God.

God’s response was to confuse their language and scatter them (Gen 11:7-8), breaking their unity. This act demonstrated that true power lies not just in unity but in unity aligned with God’s purposes. The “voice” or “speech” in the passage symbolizes shared intention and covenant. Their failure was not in their unity, but in their self-centered aim.

One Voice Restored in the Church

Fast forward to the New Testament Pentecost event in Acts 2:1-12, where the Holy Spirit reverses Babel’s confusion. Believers, once divided by language, are now filled with the Spirit and speak in tongues understood by all nations. This signifies God’s redemptive plan to unite diverse peoples into one body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-13).

This restoration of “one voice” or unity is the foundation for the explosive growth of the early Church. Their unity was spiritual and mission-focused, centered on glorifying God rather than self.

Church Unity and Humility

Today, the Church often suffers division because we pursue personal agendas rather than God’s glory. Jesus’ call in Luke 14:27-29 reminds us to count the cost of discipleship—to carry our cross and follow Him fully. Without humble obedience and unified purpose, the Church cannot manifest the fullness of God’s glory.

The Church is not a social club or organization but the manifestation of God’s kingdom on earth (Ephesians 2:19-22). As members of Christ’s body, we must commit personally to unity through obedience and love.

May the Lord help us live in this unity and build His tower of glory on earth.

Shalom.

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Understanding the Life of Jesus Before His Ministry

Praise be to our Savior Jesus Christ forever.

I invite you to explore the foundational truths about Jesus’ life before His public ministry a period that holds deep spiritual significance and lessons for us.

1) Jesus Lived a Life Pleasing to God and Man

Key Verse:
Luke 2:52 (NIV)  “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”

This verse shows Jesus’ full humanity, He grew physically (stature), intellectually (wisdom), and relationally (favor with others). , This highlights the doctrine of the Incarnation: Jesus was fully God and fully man (John 1:14). His life pleased God not because of supernatural works at this stage, but through faithful obedience, humility, and godly character, fulfilling God’s will perfectly in ordinary life.

God’s approval of Jesus here models the idea that holiness and pleasing God are not just about public ministry or miracles but consistent faithfulness in everyday life.

2) Jesus Was Obedient to His Parents

Key Verse:
Luke 2:51 (ESV)  “And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them.”

Obedience is a key virtue, reflecting the order God established in creation (Ephesians 6:1-3). Jesus’ obedience even as the Son of God shows His perfect submission to God’s ordained authorities, modeling the ideal human response to authority. This obedience also prefigures His ultimate submission to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:8).

3) Jesus Loved Being in His Father’s House

Key Passage:
Luke 2:41-49 (NIV)  Jesus stays behind in the temple at age 12, showing His devotion and understanding that God’s will is central to His life.

Jesus’ statement, “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (v. 49) reveals His unique identity as God’s Son and His early awareness of His divine mission. It highlights the importance of spiritual formation and growth in the knowledge of God. This moment emphasizes the integral role of worship and study of Scripture in Jesus’ human development.

4) Jesus Was a Man of Prayer and Worship

Key Verse:
Hebrews 5:7 (NIV)  “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death…”

Despite His divinity, Jesus fully experienced human weakness and dependence on the Father. His earnest prayer life shows His reliance on the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1) and demonstrates the model of intimate communion with God that believers are called to follow (John 15:5).

5) Jesus Worked as a Carpenter

Key Verse:
Mark 6:3 (NIV)  “Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon?”

Jesus’ work as a carpenter emphasizes His identification with ordinary human labor and the dignity of work. This counters any notion that holiness is separate from daily life and shows that God’s kingdom includes faithful work in everyday contexts (Colossians 3:23-24). His honest work and integrity foreshadow the righteousness that pleases God.

6) Jesus’ Teachings Reflect His Life

Examples:

  • Love your enemies (Matthew 5:44 NIV)  Jesus models radical love and forgiveness, highlighting the ethical demands of the Kingdom of God.
  • Turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39 NIV)  Reflects humility and non retaliation.
  • Purity of heart (Matthew 5:28 NIV)  Emphasizes inward holiness.
  • Forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-22

    NIV)  Shows mercy as central to God’s kingdom.

  • Humility and gentleness (Matthew 11:29 NIV)  Jesus invites us to learn from Him as the humble servant King.

These teachings illustrate Jesus’ role as the perfect fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17) and the embodiment of God’s kingdom ethics lived out in practical ways.

Why Did God Delight in Jesus Before His Ministry?

Jesus’ life before His public ministry was characterized by:

  • Obedience
  • Humility
  • Prayerful dependence on God
  • Honest work
  • Loving and respectful relationships

This holy lifestyle fulfilled the righteousness God required and prepared Him for the mission ahead.

Hebrews 1:9 (NIV) says:
“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.”

If we want to experience God’s power and blessing, we must imitate Jesus’ pre ministry life prioritizing holiness, faithfulness, and devotion to God in every part of life.

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How to Pray Warfare Prayers

Psalm 144:1 (NKJV) – “Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who teaches my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.”

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, we focus on understanding and praying effective warfare prayers. Warfare prayers are those that help believers engage in spiritual battle, breaking chains, destroying the enemy’s strongholds, and overcoming the powers of darkness. These prayers are vital in resisting the devil and walking in victory.

Types of Prayers

There are various types of prayers, such as prayers of thanksgiving, supplication, intercession, and spiritual warfare. Warfare prayers are specifically designed to combat and overcome evil forces in the spiritual realm. It is important to remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12).

The Power of Prayer

Some believers might think that saying a few words repeatedly can defeat the devil. However, true spiritual victory comes from understanding the Word of God and applying it in prayer. We do not overcome the devil by simply repeating phrases but by relying on the spiritual weapons God has given us. As it is written in Ephesians 6:10-18, we are equipped with the armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as our sword.

Knowing how to pray is crucial, and it is the Lord who teaches us to fight spiritual battles. Without understanding God’s Word and the weapons He provides, our prayers would lack spiritual authority.

Spiritual Weapons in Warfare Prayers

God has given us specific weapons for spiritual warfare. Let’s look at a few of these weapons from Scripture:

1. Hailstorm:
In the Bible, God used a hailstorm to defeat the enemies of Israel. In Joshua 10:11 (NKJV), we see that as the enemies fled before Israel, God sent large hailstones from heaven, killing more enemies than the Israelites did with the sword.

Joshua 10:11 (NKJV) –

“And it happened, as they fled before Israel and were on the descent of Beth Horon, that the Lord cast down large hailstones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword.”

How to pray:
“Lord, send Your hailstones to destroy every stronghold of the enemy. Let Your hailstorm break every witchcraft circle and demonic power opposing my life. Just as You gave victory to Joshua, grant me victory over the enemy in Jesus’ name.”

2. Whip:
When Jesus cleansed the temple, He made a whip of cords to drive out the money changers and those selling goods in the temple. This act symbolized His authority to cleanse and restore the house of God.

 

John 2:15 (NKJV) –

“When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables.”

How to pray:
“Lord, with Your authority, I create Your whip and use it to drive out every evil altar in my life. I overturn every demonic table of idolatry and rebellion against You. Cleanse my heart, home, and mind with Your whip of righteousness and holiness.”

3. The Noise of War:
In 2 Kings 7:6 (NKJV), God used the sound of war to cause the Syrian army to flee in fear, leaving their camp full of food, weapons, and treasures. God can use His voice to disarm and scatter the enemy.

2 Kings 7:6 (NKJV) –

“For the Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses, the noise of a great army; so they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired the kings of the Hittites and the kings of the Egyptians to attack us!’”

How to pray:
“Lord, let Your voice be heard in the enemy’s camp. Send forth the noise of war to scatter and confuse every demonic power that is working against me. Let the enemy flee and leave behind what they have stolen from me, in the mighty name of Jesus.”

4. Blindness:
In Genesis 19:10-11 (NKJV), the men of Sodom were struck with blindness by the angels of God as they tried to harm Lot. Similarly, in the New Testament, Acts 13:11 (NKJV) records Paul striking the sorcerer Elymas with blindness because of his opposition to the gospel.

Genesis 19:10-11 (NKJV) –

“But the men reached out their hands and pulled Lot into the house with them, and shut the door. And they struck the men who were at the doorway of the house with blindness, both small and great, so that they became weary trying to find the door.”

 

Acts 13:11 (NKJV) – “And now, indeed, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind, not seeing the sun for a time.”

How to pray:
“Lord, strike every evil force and demonic spirit that has come to harm me with blindness. Cause them to stumble and lose their way, unable to see or find their target. I hide my life in You, and let the enemy be confused and blind to my destiny in Jesus’ name.”

5. The Stone of God:
In Daniel 2:34-35 (NKJV), the stone that struck the statue in King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream symbolizes God’s kingdom, which will crush every earthly kingdom and reign forever. Jesus is also called the “rock” in Scripture, and His power is capable of defeating all enemies.

Daniel 2:34-35 (NKJV) – “You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.”

 

Matthew 21:44 (NKJV) – “And he who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.”

How to pray:
“Jesus, You are the rock that crushes every enemy. I stand on You, my firm foundation. Let Your power crush the plans of the enemy in my life, shattering every demonic structure and causing it to be ground into dust. I claim victory through the power of Your Name.”

Conclusion

Warfare prayers are an essential part of a believer’s spiritual life. They are rooted in the power of God’s Word and the authority of Jesus Christ. By using the spiritual weapons God has provided, such as the hailstorm, the whip, the noise of war, blindness, and the stone of God, we can overcome the enemy and walk in the victory Jesus has won for us. Remember, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NKJV) tells us,

“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.”

Equip yourself with God’s Word, pray with faith, and stand firm in the authority that Jesus has given you.

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