Good Friday marks the final Friday of Jesus Christ’s life on earth. It is the day He endured immense suffering, was crucified, died, and was buried. Christians around the world observe this day annually to remember the suffering and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a solemn day of reflection on the weight of the cross, but it is also a day of immense hope for the believer.
A common question arises: Why is this day called “Good Friday” and not “Suffering Friday” or “Sad Friday”? After all, this was a day filled with darkness, grief, and deep suffering, as Jesus, our Savior, was rejected, tortured, and killed.
From a human perspective, the events of Good Friday appear sorrowful and filled with suffering. However, from a spiritual perspective, Good Friday is a day of immense joy for humanity. On this day, Jesus’ sacrifice led to the forgiveness of our sins, something that had been impossible since humanity lost its innocence in the Garden of Eden. If Jesus had not died for our sins, we would not have the opportunity for salvation. His death brought about our redemption, and as a result, we should rejoice. Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus’ sacrifice set us free from the bondage of sin and death. So, it is truly appropriate to call it “Good Friday,” as it marked the beginning of our salvation.
The significance of Good Friday lies in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. His death was not just an act of suffering, but the means by which humanity was reconciled to God. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans 5:8 (NIV): “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Through Jesus’ death, God provided a way for forgiveness, cleansing, and a restored relationship with Him.
Think of it this way: It’s similar to a fish being caught. The fish experiences suffering as it dies, but the fisherman rejoices in the catch. In the same way, Jesus’ death was painful for Him, but it brought great joy and freedom to us as His followers. His sacrifice is our salvation, and without it, we would still be trapped in our sins. The shedding of His blood was the only way for our sins to be forgiven, as stated in Hebrews 9:22 (NIV): “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” This is why Good Friday is rightly called “Good.”
The answer is no. The practice of abstaining from meat on Good Friday is a tradition observed by many Christians, particularly in the Catholic Church, but it is not commanded in the Bible. Catholics abstain from eating meat on this day as a form of reverence for Christ’s sacrifice. Since meat is considered a luxury food, they choose not to indulge in it to honor the sacrificial death of Christ. This practice is also observed on Ash Wednesday and other Fridays during Lent.
However, it is important to note that there is no biblical command to abstain from meat on Good Friday. If you choose to eat meat on Good Friday, you are not sinning, and if you choose to abstain, you are not sinning either. This is a matter of personal conviction and tradition, not a requirement set by Scripture.
The answer is no. The Bible does not command or forbid the celebration of any specific day in honor of the Lord. It is a personal decision based on each individual’s conviction.
In Romans 14:5-6 (NIV), Paul writes:
“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.”
This passage emphasizes that the observance of certain days or practices, like Good Friday, is a personal choice and should be done according to individual belief. If you do not feel the need to observe Good Friday, you are free to make that choice, and you should not judge others who choose to observe it. Likewise, if you do choose to observe Good Friday, you should not judge those who do not.
In the same way, fasting during this period of Easter is not mandatory for Christians. If you do not feel led to fast, that is okay. But if you choose to fast as an expression of devotion to Christ, you should not be judged for it. The key is that each person should be fully convinced in their own heart, as Paul writes.
Shalom.
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Many believers are shocked to discover that the word “Easter” is not found anywhere in the Bible—at least not in its original meaning. In fact, the only word consistently used throughout Scripture is “Passover” (Hebrew: Pesach, Greek: Pascha)—a solemn and sacred feast established by God Himself.
So where did the term “Easter” come from, and should Christians observe it?
The term “Easter” does not come from the Bible—it has pagan roots. According to several historical sources, the name traces back to a Saxon fertility goddess named Ēostre (or Ostara), who was worshipped in ancient northern Europe. She was associated with springtime, fertility, and the sunrise—symbols of new life and rebirth.
The word “east”—from which “Easter” is derived—refers to the direction where the sun rises, which was considered sacred in pagan worship. Temples and altars were often built facing the east, as worshippers believed this direction was the source of blessing and new beginnings.
Pagans honored this goddess during the spring equinox, around March–April, offering sacrifices, engaging in fertility rituals, and celebrating with feasts and dancing. This period often overlapped with Jewish Passover—which is deeply biblical and sacred in origin.
As Christianity spread through Europe, early church leaders were faced with pagan cultures that had deeply rooted traditions. Instead of removing those traditions completely, some chose to merge them with Christian truths in hopes of easier conversion.
One of the results of this compromise was the blending of the resurrection of Jesus with the fertility celebrations of Easter. Over time, the resurrection Sunday began to be called “Easter,” and customs such as Easter eggs and bunnies—symbols of fertility—crept into Christian observance, despite having no biblical foundation whatsoever.
As Christians, our focus is not on seasonal festivals, eggs, or rabbits, but on the historical, powerful event of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This event is the foundation of our faith. Paul writes:
“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”— 1 Corinthians 15:17
The resurrection is what proved Jesus is the Son of God (Romans 1:4), and what gives us hope for eternal life.
The early Church didn’t call it “Easter.” They referred to it simply as “the Lord’s Day”, particularly the Sunday after Passover, and they gathered to worship, break bread, and remember the risen Savior (Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10).
It’s not wrong to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus—in fact, it’s vital. The danger lies in:
Using pagan traditions to honor a holy event
Misrepresenting the resurrection with worldly behavior
Turning a spiritual remembrance into a cultural holiday
When Christians celebrate the resurrection like the world celebrates Easter—with drunkenness, sensual dancing, feasting for pleasure, or Easter bunnies—we risk dishonoring Christ and aligning with a spirit that contradicts the gospel.
Paul warns us:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”— Romans 12:2
We must separate biblical truth from cultural noise. Whether or not the world calls it “Easter,” we must reclaim it as Resurrection Sunday—a day to:
Worship with reverence and joy
Reflect on the power of the resurrection in our lives
Renew our walk with Christ
Share the hope of the gospel with others
Live in the power of the risen Savior every day
The celebration should be spiritual, holy, and centered on Christ—not on ancient rituals or cultural trends.
Some may argue, “It’s just a name—we’re celebrating Jesus.” And that’s partly true. We don’t worship the name “Easter”—we worship the risen Christ.
Even if the world has corrupted the meaning, Christians can still gather on Resurrection Sunday, as long as the focus is on Jesus and not on the customs that come from paganism.
Think of it this way: even your birthday might fall on a date that pagans once celebrated something evil. That doesn’t mean your birthday is evil. What matters is what you do with that day.
Let’s not be careless with the most sacred moment in Christian history. If we’re going to celebrate the resurrection, let us do so with purity, purpose, and passion.
If we feast, let it be on the Word of God.If we gather, let it be around the presence of Christ.If we rejoice, let it be because death has been defeated!
Reject the pagan “Easter” spirit. Embrace the Resurrected Christ.
The word “Easter” has pagan origins and is not found in the Bible.
The biblical celebration is Passover, which points to Jesus, our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).
The resurrection should be honored, not with worldly customs, but with holy worship.
Christians may observe the day, but not in the spirit of the world—only in the Spirit of Christ.
“Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us—let us keep the feast… with sincerity and truth.”— 1 Corinthians 5:7–8
The word Value , in the Bible —it refers to the value or price of something, usually in monetary terms.
The term appears in different contexts in Scripture to indicate how much something or someone is worth. For example:
Other references include Leviticus 27:23, Job 18:28, and Acts 7:16—each demonstrating how things or people were evaluated in terms of (value or price).
The most striking use of value in Scripture is the price placed on Jesus by Judas—thirty pieces of silver. This exact amount was not random—it mirrored the price of a slave according to Exodus 21:32. The Son of God was sold as though He were worthless in the eyes of men.
This act exposes the total depravity of human judgment and the immeasurable worth of Christ. Judas later returned the silver in despair, acknowledging his sin but not seeking redemption (Matthew 27:3–5). His suicide shows how even a thief recognized that Jesus’ value far exceeded what he was paid.
This brings us to the heart of the matter: What is the worth of Jesus in your life?
Jesus once asked:
In a world where people often measure worth by success, wealth, or pleasure, Jesus reminds us that none of these can compare to the value of the soul—and ultimately, the value of knowing and following Him.
Paul understood this well:
Philippians 3:8 “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Paul considered every earthly gain as garbage compared to the value of knowing Christ.
If Judas, as a sinner, came to see—too late—the surpassing worth of Jesus, how much more should we, who have heard the gospel, respond while we still have the chance?
Don’t wait until it’s too late to recognize the value of Jesus Christ in your life.
Repent. Turn to Him. Jesus is worth more than anything this world can offer. He gave His life for your soul—His value is priceless.
May the Lord bless you and open your eyes to the immeasurable worth of Jesus.
God is not silent He desires relationship, and central to any relationship is communication. However, many Christians expect God to speak only in one particular way, and when they don’t hear Him in that way, they assume He’s silent. But Scripture shows us that God speaks in a variety of ways, both direct and subtle. Recognizing these can deepen our walk with Him and sharpen our spiritual discernment.
One of the clearest examples in Scripture is when God speaks directly through audible words, dreams, or visions. This form of communication is powerful, but not the most common. Still, it remains a valid and biblical method God uses, especially in pivotal moments of calling, warning, or divine revelation.
Job 33:14–15 (ESV):
“For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds.”
Throughout the Bible, we see this form of communication in action:Moses heard God audibly through the burning bush (Exodus 3:4).Joseph received divine guidance through dreams (Genesis 37:5–11; Matthew 1:20).Paul was guided by a vision to go to Macedonia (Acts 16:9).
Even today, many believers especially in closed or persecuted regions report dreams or visions where Christ appears to them, consistent with Acts 2:17.
“And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” Acts 2:17 (ESV)
However, these experiences must always be tested against Scripture (1 John 4:1) to guard against deception.
The Bible is the clearest, most consistent, and universally accessible way God speaks. It is inspired, authoritative, and sufficient for teaching, correcting, and equipping believers in all aspects of life.
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV):
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
God’s Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), which means it speaks personally and powerfully to those who approach it with humility and faith. Every principle, command, and promise is God’s voice to His people.
Theologically, this is rooted in the doctrine of sola scriptura—that Scripture alone is the final authority for faith and practice.
The indwelling Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers. One of the key ways He does this is through the peace of Christ ruling in our hearts a spiritual sense of affirmation or restraint when making decisions.
Colossians 3:15 (ESV):
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
Jesus referred to the Spirit as the Counselor or Helper in John 14:26, saying He would teach us all things and bring God’s truth to remembrance. Often, if you lose peace suddenly over something whether a relationship, decision, or opportunity it may be God nudging you to reconsider.
This aligns with Romans 8:16:
“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.”
This inner witness doesn’t contradict Scripture but works alongside it to guide and confirm God’s will.
God often speaks through people, especially those called into ministry roles such as pastors, prophets, teachers, and evangelists. But He can also use unbelievers or secular authorities to convey truth or warning.
Jeremiah 25:4 (ESV):
“You have neither listened nor inclined your ears to hear, although the Lord persistently sent to you all his servants the prophets.”
Biblical examples include:Nathan the prophet confronting David (2 Samuel 12).Balaam’s donkey speaking to him (Numbers 22).Caiaphas, a high priest with wrong motives, unknowingly prophesying Jesus’ death (John 11:49–52).
In 1 Thessalonians 5:20–21, Paul urges:
“Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.”
God may use a sermon, a conversation, or even a rebuke from a friend to communicate His truth. Always weigh what you hear against Scripture.
God sometimes allows life’s circumstances to speak louder than words. These situations may include hardship, delay, closed doors, or moments of divine intervention. Often, He uses these to redirect, refine, or refocus us.
Romans 8:28 (ESV):
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
A powerful biblical case is King Nebuchadnezzar. He was warned by Daniel to humble himself before God, but he ignored the warning. As a result, God humbled him through a season of insanity until he acknowledged God’s sovereignty.
Daniel 4:34–35 (ESV):
“…my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever… All the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will.”
Sometimes, trials are not just allowed by God they are messages from Him.
Creation itself declares God’s glory and communicates His character. Nature is not silent. When we slow down and observe the world around us, we can hear echoes of God’s truth and care.
Romans 1:20 (ESV):
“For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”
Jesus used nature often to teach spiritual truths:Birds to illustrate God’s provision (Luke 12:24).Seeds and soil to teach about the Word of God (Matthew 13).Vines and branches to describe union with Him (John 15).
When God told Abraham to look at the stars (Genesis 15:5), He was using creation to inspire faith.
Many people are waiting to hear God in only one way through dreams, visions, or a voice while missing all the other ways He is constantly speaking. God is not confined to one method. He speaks through His Word, His Spirit, people, circumstances, and creation.
So, when you pray wait patiently. Stay in the Word. Be sensitive to His Spirit. Be open to correction and direction from others. Reflect on the world around you. God is speaking you just need to listen in every way He chooses to speak.
John 8:32 (ESV):
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
May the Lord bless you.
The Question:
In Zechariah 12:11, we read:
“In that day there shall be a great mourning in Jerusalem, like the mourning at Hadadrimmon in the plain of Megiddo.”
What is this mourning about, and why is it compared to Hadadrimmon?
Hadadrimmon was a place located in the valley of Megiddo in Israel—a site historically known for major battles. It is most famously associated with the death of King Josiah, one of Judah’s most righteous and reformative kings. Josiah’s reign was marked by religious revival and the eradication of idolatry (2 Kings 23:1–25). He is celebrated for restoring the covenant with God and leading the nation back to true worship.
Josiah’s death came unexpectedly in battle against Pharaoh Neco of Egypt, even though God had not sent him into that conflict. The Bible says:
“In his days Pharaoh Necho king of Egypt went to the aid of the king of Assyria, to the River Euphrates; and King Josiah went against him. And Pharaoh Necho killed him at Megiddo when he confronted him.” —2 Kings 23:29
The nation was devastated. The prophet Jeremiah and the people of Judah lamented Josiah’s death deeply. His mourning became a national memory.
“Jeremiah also lamented for Josiah. And to this day all the singing men and the singing women speak of Josiah in their lamentations. They made it a custom in Israel; and indeed, they are written in the Laments.” —2 Chronicles 35:25
Thus, Hadadrimmon became symbolic of a moment of great national grief—the loss of a righteous king and a fading hope for the nation.
Zechariah 12 is a prophecy pointing to a future national mourning in Israel, far greater than that of Josiah. This time, the grief will be spiritual and redemptive. God declares that He will pour out:
“…the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son…” —Zechariah 12:10
This refers to Jesus Christ, the Messiah, whom the nation of Israel rejected and crucified (John 19:37). On this future day, the veil will be lifted from their eyes (2 Corinthians 3:14–16), and they will recognize Christ for who He is: their Messiah, the Son of God.
Their mourning will not just be for a fallen king like Josiah—but for the Messiah they pierced. This mourning will be personal, deep, and family by family:
“The land shall mourn, every family by itself: the family of the house of David by itself, and their wives by themselves…” —Zechariah 12:12
This is not simply regret—it is repentance (Hebrew: teshuvah), a turning back to God through the convicting work of the Holy Spirit.
Right now, we are living in the time of grace—a season when salvation through Jesus is available to all (Titus 2:11). But this age will not last forever. Jesus warned:
“Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.” —Matthew 24:32
The fig tree represents Israel (Jeremiah 24). The rebirth of the nation in 1948 and the return of Jews to their land are signs that the end-time clock is ticking. God is preparing to fulfill His promises to His people.
The Gospel has now reached the ends of the earth. The next great prophetic event is the rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51–52). If you’re waiting for another sign or emotional push, understand this: the opportunity is now. The window is narrowing.
“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” —Luke 13:24
If you’re saved, now is the time to live in holiness and readiness. If you’re not, don’t wait another day. God’s grace is available now—but one day, like in the days of Josiah, the nation and the world will mourn deeply. Don’t be among those who regret. Be among those who rejoice.
May the Lord open our eyes, soften our hearts, and help us recognize the times we are living in.
Can Satan create like God? If not, then why during Pharaoh’s time did the magicians produce frogs and snakes, just like Moses did? How were those frogs created? Where did their life come from if not from God?
QUESTION 1:
Can Satan create like God? If not, why during Pharaoh’s time did the magicians manage to produce frogs and snakes, just like Moses? How did those frogs come into existence? Where did their life come from if not from God?
ANSWER:
Jesus clearly identifies Satan as a liar and the originator of falsehood:
John 8:44 (ESV): “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:44 (ESV):
“You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
This verse highlights Satan’s fundamental nature — he is a being of deceit, and his entire kingdom is built upon falsehood. From the very beginning, he used lies to usurp authority from Adam (Genesis 3), corrupting God’s original design for humanity. Satan’s power lies not in creation but in deception, rebellion, and corruption.
Can Satan create like God?
The biblical doctrine of creation clearly affirms that only God is the Creator. God alone possesses the power to bring something into existence out of nothing (ex nihilo). This is seen throughout Scripture:
Genesis 1:1 (ESV): In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1 (ESV):
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Hebrews 11:3 (ESV): “By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
Hebrews 11:3 (ESV):
“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
No creature, including Satan or any angelic being, has the power to create life or matter. They are created beings themselves, dependent entirely on God.
What about Pharaoh’s magicians?
During the plagues of Egypt, Pharaoh’s magicians appeared to replicate some of the miraculous signs Moses performed — turning staffs into snakes and producing frogs (Exodus 7-8). However, the Bible shows this was not actual creation but illusion or counterfeit:
2 Corinthians 11:14 (ESV): And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
2 Corinthians 11:14 (ESV):
And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
Satan’s power in this context is one of illusion and deception, making something appear real but without true substance or life. The “frogs” and “snakes” produced by the magicians were likely trickery—either illusions or real animals summoned or manipulated by occult means, but not newly created life.
The magicians themselves failed to match all the miracles, acknowledging the superiority of God’s power. Their works ultimately showed the limits of Satan’s counterfeit kingdom.
Theological implications
Creatio ex nihilo (Creation out of nothing) is reserved for God alone. This affirms His unique sovereignty and power as the sole Creator.
Satan and demonic powers can mimic or counterfeit miracles but cannot create life or reality itself.
The spiritual warfare we face involves discerning truth from deception, recognizing that Satan’s power is ultimately limited and derivative.
Evil and rebellion in the world are results of Satan’s corrupting influence, not creative power.
Summary
Satan is a master deceiver and can manipulate appearances, but he cannot create life or matter. The frogs and snakes seen during Pharaoh’s time were illusions or counterfeit, not original creations. Only God alone has the sovereign ability to create, sustain, and give life.
There is no part of the Bible that refers to Michael as the Lord Jesus. The Scriptures distinctly differentiate between Jesus Christ and angels, even in the nature that each of them took on. Jesus Christ, being fully God and fully man, is uniquely different from angels. For instance, the Bible states:
Hebrews 2:16 (NKJV): “For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham.”
This verse makes it clear that Jesus came to aid humanity, not angels. His incarnation was as a human, specifically of the lineage of Abraham, as prophesied in the Old Testament. Jesus was revealed to the world in human form (John 1:14), fulfilling God’s plan for redemption through a human Savior.
1 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV): “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory.”
This verse emphasizes that God, in the person of Jesus Christ, was revealed in human flesh. He was not an angel, but God incarnate. The angels themselves witnessed this extraordinary event. While angels play an important role in God’s plan, they are never the recipients of worship or divine status, as Jesus is.
The Nature of Michael:
It is true that Michael is one of the archangels in heaven, and, according to Scripture, he holds a high rank among the angels. However, there is no biblical evidence to suggest that Michael is Jesus Christ. Michael is described in Scripture as a powerful angelic being who serves God, especially in spiritual warfare. For example, Michael’s role is highlighted in:
Daniel 10:13 (NKJV): “But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me…”
Also in Jude 1:9,
Jude 1:9 (NKJV): “But Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’”
These verses demonstrate Michael’s significant role as an angel, yet even he recognizes the authority of God and does not act independently. He does not possess the divine authority that Jesus has, such as the power to forgive sins or to cast out demons.
Luke 5:24 (NKJV): “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”
He said to the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.”
This verse shows that only Jesus has the divine authority to forgive sins, an authority that angels, including Michael, do not possess.
Christ’s Relationship with the Angels:
Christ is worshiped by all creation, including angels, which further separates Him from any angelic being. The Bible explicitly states that the Son is to be worshiped by all creation, a privilege not granted to angels:
Hebrews 1:6 (NKJV): “But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of God worship Him.”
This verse shows that Jesus Christ is to be worshiped by angels, a privilege that angels like Michael do not share. In contrast, no angel is ever worshiped. Jesus Christ alone, as the Son of God, is worthy of worship, authority, and praise.
The Distinction Between Christ and Angels:
Furthermore, God never refers to any angel as His “Son.” Instead, He calls Jesus His Son, distinguishing Him from all angelic beings. This is clearly evident in:
Hebrews 1:5 (NKJV): “For to which of the angels did He ever say: ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You’? And again: ‘I will be to Him a Father, And He shall be to Me a Son’?”
This verse emphasizes that God the Father has never called any angel “Son.” The title “Son” is reserved for Jesus Christ, affirming His unique position in the divine order.
John 3:16 (NKJV): “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Jesus Christ, as the only begotten Son of God, is distinct from all created beings, including angels. His relationship with the Father is one of perfect unity and divinity.
The Role of Angels in the Last Days:
It is also important to recognize that in the last days, angels will have a significant role in executing God’s judgment. They will be sent to bring about the plagues and destruction described in the book of Revelation. This is something that even the angels themselves are preparing for.
Revelation 8:6-7 (NKJV): “So the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound. The first angel sounded: And hail and fire followed, mingled with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up.”
Also in:
Revelation 16:1-2 (NKJV): “Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, ‘Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth.’”
These verses describe the angels pouring out God’s judgment in the form of the seven trumpets and seven bowls, which will bring great suffering and turmoil to the earth. It is a time of wrath, not a time of mercy. The angels will be executing God’s final judgments on an unbelieving world.
The Call to Repentance:
As these events unfold, it is crucial for us to understand the urgency of the times. The Bible calls us to be ready for the coming of the Lord and to live in repentance and faith.
Revelation 22:12 (NKJV): “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.”
The return of Christ and the coming judgment are imminent. Today is the day to repent and turn to God for salvation. It is better to come to Christ now, in this time of grace, than to face the coming judgment unprepared.
Maranatha! (“The Lord is coming!”)
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Many people use these terms interchangeably, but biblically, each one refers to a specific concept or location related to life after death. Here’s a clear and scripturally backed explanation of each:
Definition: The eternal dwelling place of God, His angels, and ultimately, the redeemed. It is often referred to as the Third Heaven, the highest realm.
The Apostle Paul described being caught up to the third heaven, a realm of indescribable glory:
“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven… and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter.”— 2 Corinthians 12:2–4 (ESV)
It is where Jesus ascended to after His resurrection and where He prepares an eternal home for believers:
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”— John 14:2 (ESV)
God’s transcendence is affirmed in:
“But will God indeed dwell with man on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you…”— 2 Chronicles 6:18 (ESV)
Summary: Heaven is the ultimate and eternal destination for those in Christ — a place of complete joy, peace, and the presence of God.
Definition: Paradise refers to an intermediate, blissful state where the souls of believers go after death while awaiting the resurrection of their bodies and final entrance into Heaven.
Jesus told the repentant thief:
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”— Luke 23:43 (ESV)
This is understood as a spiritual realm of peace, also referred to as “Abraham’s bosom,” where the righteous like Lazarus were taken:
“The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side.”— Luke 16:22 (ESV)
Also echoed in Revelation where martyred souls are seen under the altar, resting and waiting:
“I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God… They were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer…”— Revelation 6:9–11 (ESV)
Summary: Paradise is not the final Heaven but a waiting place for believers who have died. It is peaceful and secure a foretaste of what is to come.
Definition: Hades refers to the temporary abode of the dead both righteous and unrighteous before Christ’s resurrection. Post-resurrection, it is associated more with the waiting place of the wicked.
In the Old Testament, “Sheol” is often used to describe the grave or realm of the dead:
“Oh that you would hide me in Sheol, that you would conceal me until your wrath be past…”— Job 14:13 (ESV)
David spoke prophetically of Christ, saying:
“For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.”— Psalm 16:10 (ESV)
After Christ’s resurrection, believers are no longer bound to Hades but go to Paradise, while Hades now holds the unsaved dead:
“And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised…”— Matthew 27:52 (NKJV)
Summary: Hades is the realm of the dead, often now referring to the waiting place of the unsaved dead, who await final judgment.
Definition: Gehenna refers to a place of fiery torment, used by Jesus to describe the fate of the wicked. It represents divine judgment and is not temporary — it leads into the Lake of Fire.
Gehenna was a real valley outside Jerusalem (Valley of Hinnom), used as a burning trash dump, which became a symbol of divine judgment.
Jesus warned of it:
“And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than with two feet to be thrown into hell [Gehenna].”— Mark 9:45 (ESV)
Jesus described it as a place:
“Where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.”— Mark 9:48 (ESV)
After final judgment, Gehenna leads to the Lake of Fire:
“Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death…”— Revelation 20:14 (ESV)
Summary: Gehenna is a place of conscious torment for the wicked — a prelude to the final Lake of Fire. It is permanent and irreversible.
Definition: The final and eternal punishment for Satan, demons, and all who are not in the Book of Life.
The final judgment of the wicked occurs at the Great White Throne:
“If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”— Revelation 20:15 (ESV)
Summary: This is the ultimate destination for those who reject Christ. It follows Gehenna and is final an eternal separation from God.
This is not just a theological discussion — it’s a personal and urgent matter. Jesus Christ offers salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”— John 3:36 (ESV)
“The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”— Romans 6:23 (ESV)
If you’ve never surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. Eternal destinies are real and permanent.
Repent: Turn away from sin (Acts 3:19).
Believe: Trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 10:9).
Follow Him: Live a life led by the Spirit, grounded in the Word (Galatians 5:25).
May God give us wisdom and grace to understand and respond to these truths.Please share this message with others.
It’s part of the human condition when life gets overwhelming, we often long for an escape. In moments of suffering or stress, many of us imagine how peaceful life would be if we could just fly away, free from burdens and responsibilities. We fantasize about becoming something other than human perhaps a bird, soaring above it all and finding rest in a place far away from people and pain.
This very sentiment was echoed by David during one of the darkest seasons of his life. While fleeing for his life from King Saul, hiding in caves and wilderness, David poured out his heart to God with raw emotion:
Psalm 55:5–8 (ESV):
“Fear and trembling come upon me, and horror overwhelms me. And I say, ‘Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest; yes, I would wander far away; I would lodge in the wilderness; I would hurry to find a shelter from the raging wind and tempest.’”
David didn’t want to face the chaos around him. He longed to escape. Yet God didn’t grant him wings and He hasn’t given them to us either.
Why? Because we were not created to run from life’s trials. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible teaches that God’s people are called not to escape the world, but to endure in it. Sanctification doesn’t come from isolation it comes from faithfully walking with God in the midst of suffering, opposition, and tension.
Jesus Himself affirmed this in His prayer to the Father shortly before His crucifixion. Speaking of His disciples, He said:
John 17:15 (ESV):
“I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.”
Christ doesn’t pray for our removal from difficulty, but for our protection through it. That’s the gospel pattern: God doesn’t always calm the storm, but He walks with us in it.
Sometimes, God even uses the very people who oppose us to accomplish His purposes. He provides for us right in the presence of those who dislike us not to humiliate them, but to display His faithfulness to His children.
Psalm 23:5 (ESV):
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
This is divine sovereignty at work. God doesn’t remove every thorn from our side, but He transforms hardship into holy ground. He builds our character through trials (Romans 5:3–4), teaches us to rely on His strength (2 Corinthians 12:9), and draws us closer to Him through suffering (Philippians 3:10).
So, fellow believer, stop hoping for total separation from life’s challenges or painful people. That’s not the life we’ve been called to. We haven’t been promised a life of peace through escape, but peace in Christ who is with us in the midst of it all.
Remember: God has not given us wings like doves to flee from our troubles. Instead, He has given us His Spirit to stand strong in them.
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:26–29 (NIV)
I greet you in the powerful name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whose glory and dominion endure forever and ever. Amen.
The Apostle Paul gives us an important reminder in 1 Corinthians 1:26:
“Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.” (NIV)
Here, Paul calls us to “consider our calling.” Why? Because God’s method of choosing whom to use often contradicts human logic and expectations. We tend to think that for God to call someone, they must be powerful, polished, educated, and exceptional. But the Kingdom of God operates under divine paradox: strength is made perfect in weakness, and the last shall be first.
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” 1 Corinthians 1:27 (NIV)
God doesn’t call the qualified He qualifies the called. He chose Moses, a man with a speech impediment (Exodus 4:10), to confront Pharaoh. He chose Gideon, the least in his family and tribe (Judges 6:15), to deliver Israel. He chose Mary, a humble teenage girl, to bring the Savior into the world (Luke 1:48).
God intentionally selects those society overlooks. Why? So that no one can boast in their own strength. His power and glory are made obvious when He works through weakness.
Paul goes on to say:
“God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things and the things that are not to nullify the things that are.” 1 Corinthians 1:28 (NIV)
What does Paul mean by “things that are not”? He’s referring to people and things that the world views as non-existent or irrelevant those who have no platform, no name, no influence. Their absence from the world’s stage makes them invisible.
Let’s take a modern example. If I mention the United States or France, you’ve heard of them countless times. But if I mention Tuvalu or Kiribati, many may pause, unsure if these are even real places. They are but they are rarely spoken of, so they seem nonexistent.
In the same way, God sees those whom the world has forgotten people like David, who was out tending sheep when the prophet Samuel came to anoint Israel’s next king (1 Samuel 16:11). He wasn’t even considered by his own family but he was seen by God.
Maybe you’ve been doubting yourself. Maybe you feel like you don’t matter you have no formal education, no notable talent, no strong social network. Maybe you’re living with a disability or feel limited in every way.
But Scripture reminds us: God is closest to those the world considers weak or unworthy. He sees you. And He may be preparing you for something greater than you can imagine if only you draw near to Him.
Paul speaks personally in 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (NIV):
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
God doesn’t need our strength to fulfill His purposes He needs our availability and surrender. The weaker we are, the more clearly His power can be seen in us.
God specializes in using the unknown, the overlooked, and the underestimated. Why? So that the world sees His glory, not ours. So that no one may boast before Him.
So don’t disqualify yourself from God’s calling. Your past doesn’t matter. Your resume doesn’t matter. Your lack doesn’t matter.
What matters is your yes. Your willingness. Your surrender.
God chooses the things that are not so He can show the world what He truly is.