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What does the phrase “to lay hands on” mean as used in the Bible, particularly in Esther 2:21?

Esther 2:21 (NKJV):

“In those days, while Mordecai sat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus.”

ANSWER:

In this context, the phrase “to lay hands on” does not mean to bless or ordain, as it does in other parts of Scripture. Instead, it refers to an intent to harm, assault, or kill. The two men, Bigthan and Teresh royal eunuchs assigned as doorkeepers were plotting to assassinate King Ahasuerus. While the Bible doesn’t specify their method (e.g., poisoning or stabbing), the use of the phrase “lay hands on” makes their violent intention unmistakable.

This idiomatic expression is used in several biblical passages to describe acts of aggression or murder. It conveys more than just physical contact it implies the exercise of destructive force or violence against someone, often unjustly.

Theological Insight:

In biblical theology, the “laying on of hands” appears in two primary ways:

  1. Positive usage: for imparting blessing, authority, healing, or the Holy Spirit.
    Example: Acts 8:17 (NKJV)
  2.  “Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”
  3. Negative usage: as in intent to do harm, violence, or murder. This is the case in Esther 2:21. It reflects the heart’s rebellion against God’s established authority.

Cross-reference: David and Saul

A powerful parallel appears in 1 Samuel 24:4–7, where David had an opportunity to kill King Saul, who had been unjustly hunting him. However, David refused to harm Saul because Saul had been anointed by God:

1 Samuel 24:6 (NKJV):

“And he said to his men, ‘The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the Lord.’”

David’s words “to stretch out my hand” are synonymous with “to lay hands on,” again showing intent to do harm. But unlike the conspirators in Esther, David feared God and would not violate the sacredness of God’s anointed authority even when Saul was in the wrong.

This moment highlights a deep theological truth: It is God who raises up kings and removes them (Daniel 2:21), and it is not man’s place to take justice into his own hands especially against someone set apart by divine appointment.

Spiritual Application:

Respect for authority: Even when leaders are flawed, God calls His people to honor the positions He has established (Romans 13:1–2).

Judgment belongs to the Lord: As seen with David, true spiritual maturity submits to God’God sees hidden plots: Like Mordecai discovering the plot in Esther, God often works through seemingly small events to protect His purposes and people.

Conclusion:
The phrase “to lay hands on” in Esther 2:21 (NKJV) refers specifically to an attempt to harm or kill. It is a warning about rebellion and violence, particularly against God’s appointed authority. When compared to David’s restraint in 1 Samuel 24, it underscores the call for God’s people to walk in reverence, patience, and divine obedience, trusting in the justice and sovereignty of the Lord.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21 (NKJV)
May the Lord bless you richly as you grow in wisdom and 

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What Is “The Curse of the Law”?

 

What Is “The Curse of the Law”?

QUESTION:
What does the term “the curse of the law” mean, and what does it mean that Christ came to redeem us from it?

Galatians 3:13 (ESV)
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree.’”

Answer:

When God gave the Law to Israel through Moses, it came with both blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. The curses were severe and comprehensive—they included spiritual separation from God, physical suffering, defeat by enemies, exile, and ultimately death (Deuteronomy 28). These judgments are what the Bible refers to as “the curse of the law.”

Deuteronomy 27:26 (NKJV)
“Cursed is the one who does not confirm all the words of this law by observing them.” And all the people shall say, “Amen!”

This verse teaches that perfect obedience to the Law was required, and failure at even one point brought a curse. According to

James 2:10 (ESV):

“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it.”

In reality, no one has ever been able to perfectly keep the Law. The Law is holy, righteous, and good (Romans 7:12), but it also reveals human sinfulness and our inability to meet God’s perfect standard.

Romans 3:10–12, 23 (ESV):
“None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.”
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Therefore, everyone stands condemned under the curse of the Law—not because the Law is bad, but because human nature is sinful. The Law acts like a mirror: it reveals our sin but cannot cleanse us from it.

The Redemption Through Christ

But God, in His great love, provided a way of redemption. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the Law completely and then took upon Himself the curse that we deserved. On the cross, He became the substitute for sinners.

2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV):
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

Isaiah 53:5–6 (NKJV):
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities… And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”

By His death on the cross, Christ became a curse in our place. The phrase “cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree” (from Deut. 21:23) was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified. He bore the curse that we earned, so we could receive the blessing of justification by faith.

Romans 5:8–9 (ESV):
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.”

Life in Christ: Free from Condemnation

Because of Christ’s finished work, believers are no longer under condemnation.

Romans 8:1 (NKJV):
“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.”

We are no longer under the Law as a system of judgment. Instead, we live under grace through faith. We are accepted by God, not because of our efforts, but because of Christ’s righteousness credited to us.

Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV):
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

The Danger of Rejecting Christ

Anyone who has not believed in Christ is still under the curse of the Law—trying to earn God’s favor through personal effort, moral goodness, or religious rituals. But human effort will always fall short.

You might say, “I don’t steal or lie,” but even harboring lustful thoughts or hatred is sin (Matthew 5:21–28). The standard is perfection, and none can meet it.

Romans 6:23 (ESV):
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Why Jesus Is Essential

This is why we all desperately need Jesus. Without Him, we are condemned; with Him, we are free. In Christ, the curse is broken, and we are brought into God’s family, fully accepted, fully forgiven.

John 3:16–18 (ESV):
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life… Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already.

What Should You Do?

So what are you waiting for? Jesus is offering you freedom from condemnation and eternal life. Believe in Him today and be saved—not by your righteousness, but by His grace.

Receive Him now. Surrender to Him in prayer, asking Him to save you, forgive your sins, and make you His own.

May the Lord bless you as you respond to His call.

 

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Understanding the Meaning of Proverbs 21:3 — “To Do Justice and Judgment Is More Acceptable to the LORD Than Sacrifice.”

QUESTION:

What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:3?

Proverbs 21:3 (KJV)
“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.”

ANSWER:

This verse teaches us about what truly pleases God.
God values righteous living, justice, compassion, and moral integrity more than religious rituals or offerings. When we live righteously, treat others fairly, and walk according to His spiritual standards on earth, this is far more pleasing to Him than merely offering sacrifices or participating in outward religious ceremonies.

In other words, God is more interested in our hearts and our behavior than in our religious activities. Sacrifices symbolize outward religious acts — such as church attendance, giving money, singing, praying, fasting, and preaching. While these practices are important, God first desires our obedience, righteousness, and justice in how we live and treat others.

It does not mean that God rejects worship, offerings, or religious service. Rather, these acts should flow from a life already surrendered in obedience to His will. Without justice and righteousness, religious acts lose their value before God.

This truth is emphasized throughout Scripture. Consider what God said through the prophet Samuel to King Saul:

1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV)
“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”

The prophet Micah also makes this point very clear:

Micah 6:6-8 (KJV)
“Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”

Furthermore, Isaiah strongly rebukes those who continue offering sacrifices while living in sin:

Isaiah 1:11-17 (KJV)
“To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats.
When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts?
Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me…
Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.”

Self-Examination:

Therefore, we should honestly ask ourselves:

  • Am I living justly and treating others fairly?

  • Do I walk humbly with God?

  • Do I prioritize obeying God over religious performances?

  • Am I compassionate toward others?

These are the things that carry the most weight before God.

Conclusion:

Let us focus on what pleases the Lord — a life of righteousness, mercy, humility, and justice. Only then will our religious acts be acceptable before Him.

The Lord bless you.
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How Many People Named John Are Mentioned in the Bible?

In the New Testament, four men bear the name John. Each of them plays a unique role in God’s plan of redemption. While John the Baptist and John the Apostle are the most prominent, the others also have spiritual significance when we look closely at the biblical record.

1) John the Baptist – The Forerunner of Christ

John the Baptist’s entire ministry was centered on preparing Israel for the coming of the Messiah.

Luke 1:16–17 (ESV)

And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.

He stood as the final Old Testament–style prophet, bridging the silence between Malachi and Christ’s arrival. His message was one of repentance (Matthew 3:2).

Theologically, John the Baptist embodies the prophetic voice calling for holiness and the transitional role between the Law and the Gospel. His declaration, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29, ESV), captures the essence of his mission: to direct all eyes to Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb.

His martyrdom (Mark 6:27) also foreshadows the suffering of Christ, showing that God’s messengers often pay the price of truth with their lives.

2) John the Apostle – The Theologian of Love and Truth

John, the son of Zebedee, emerges not only as an apostle but as one of the closest companions of Jesus (with Peter and James). He uniquely emphasizes the divine identity of Christ.

John 1:1 (ESV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

 

John 20:31 (ESV)

These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

His writings highlight two theological pillars:

1. Christology – affirming Jesus as the eternal Word made flesh (John 1:14).

2. Love and Fellowship – Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God

(1 John 4:7, ESV).

John’s Gospel gives us profound revelations about eternal life, the work of the Spirit (John 14–16), and Christ’s identity as both human and divine. His Revelation also presents the ultimate hope of the believer—the victorious return of Christ, the judgment of evil, and the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1–4).

Thus, John the Apostle is the theologian of divine love and eternal glory, grounding believers in hope and perseverance.

3) John Mark – The Restored Servant of the Gospel

John Mark is often overlooked, yet his life teaches us about God’s grace in restoring those who stumble.

Acts 13:13 (ESV) – He abandoned Paul and Barnabas early in ministry.

2 Timothy 4:11 (ESV) – Later, Paul writes, Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry.

Though he failed at first, he was restored and went on to write the Gospel of Mark, which many scholars believe reflects Peter’s eyewitness testimony.

Theologically, John Mark represents the grace of restoration and usefulness despite past failure. His Gospel emphasizes the suffering Servant (Mark 10:45) and reminds us that God’s power works through human weakness.

4) John, the Father of Simon Peter – A Hidden Legacy

Although little is said about John the father of Peter, his name is recorded:

John 1:42 (ESV)

You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas (which means Peter).

While Scripture does not detail his life, his significance lies in being remembered as the father of one of the greatest leaders in the early church. His mention shows how God values lineage, legacy, and family identity.

Theologically, this teaches that even those not in the spotlight still matter in God’s plan. Parents who raise children who follow God leave an eternal mark.

Theological Reflection and Application

When we look at these four men named John together, a greater lesson emerges:

1. John the Baptist – shows us that true ministry prepares people to meet Jesus.

2. John the Apostle – teaches us to abide in Christ’s love and proclaim Him as the eternal Son of God.

3. John Mark – reminds us that God restores the fallen and uses them for His glory.

4. John the father of Peter – illustrates the unseen yet vital role of spiritual legacy.

Ultimately, all four point us back to Jesus Christ. The Johns of the New Testament are not celebrated for their own sake, but for how they direct us to the Savior—the Lamb of God, the eternal Word, the risen Lord, and the coming King.

✨ Takeaway: The presence of multiple Johns in the New Testament reminds us that while many may share the same name, their calling and contribution are unique. In the same way, God has uniquely gifted and positioned each of us to point others to Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4–7, ESV).

 

 

 

 

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What Does “Kuseta” Mean?

The Swahili word “kuseta,” as used in the Bible, means to completely destroy something—whether by crushing, trampling, or breaking it into pieces. It conveys the idea of total defeat and removal, not just a minor setback.

Biblical Usage and Theological Meaning

For example, consider these passages from the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible:

Romans 16:19-20

[19] Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
[20] The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
Grace be with you all.

Here, the Apostle Paul encourages believers to live wisely and avoid evil. The phrase “crush Satan under your feet” is a vivid metaphor that reflects the ultimate victory believers have in Christ over the powers of evil. It echoes Genesis 3:15, where God foretells that the seed of the woman (interpreted as Christ) will crush the serpent’s head, symbolizing Satan’s defeat. This crushing is not only an act of God’s power but also a result of believers’ faithful lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist temptation and sin.

This passage highlights a key theological truth: spiritual victory comes through separation from evil and obedience to God, not by human strength alone. When we turn away from sin and follow Christ, God empowers us to overcome Satan’s influence.

Psalm 110:5

The Lord is at your right hand; he will crush kings on the day of his wrath.

This Psalm is a Messianic prophecy pointing to the coming Messiah (Jesus Christ), who will exercise divine judgment on the wicked. The crushing of kings symbolizes God’s sovereign authority and His righteous judgment against evil rulers and powers. It reminds us that God’s justice will ultimately prevail over all forms of wickedness.

Summary

To “kuseta” means to utterly destroy, leaving nothing intact. God’s promise is to do this to Satan and the forces of evil, not to His people. As believers, our calling is to live lives that reflect God’s holiness—aligned with His will, empowered by faith in Jesus Christ.

If we fail to do so, we risk falling under the same destructive power that Satan experiences. But through faith in Christ, we receive forgiveness, protection, and victory.

Are you ready to receive Jesus today?
If so, click here for a guided prayer of repentance.

May the Lord bless you richly.

Please share this encouraging message with others!

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SAFARI YA KUUONA USO WA MUNGU.

THE JOURNEY TO SEE THE FACE OF GOD

Moses (the Back)
Christ (the Mirror)
Heaven (the Full Revelation)

It was Moses’ deep desire to see the face of God after a long time without visibly encountering Him.

Face-to-face with God (Theophany)

The scriptures say God spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. This implies an intimate, direct communication what theologians call a theophany, a visible manifestation of God to humans without fully revealing His essence, since God’s full glory is too great for fallen humans to withstand.

Exodus 33:11 (NIV)
The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.

But later Moses asked to see God’s face, and God warned:

Exodus 33:20-23 (NIV)
But,“he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.”

The Invisibility of God’s Essence

This emphasizes the doctrine of Divine Invisibility God’s essence is invisible and unapproachable in His fullness (1 Timothy 6:16). Seeing God’s “face” means experiencing His full glory, which sinful humans cannot survive without atonement.

Moses’ sinfulness and humanity limited his capacity to behold God’s glory fully. Thus, God allowed Moses to see only His “back,” a metaphor indicating partial revelation of God’s presence (a limited view of His glory).

1 Timothy 6:16 (NIV)
Who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see.

The Nature of God Revealed to Moses

When Moses saw God’s “back,” he understood His character compassion, grace, patience, love, and justice.

Exodus 34:5-7 (NIV)
Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed His name, the Lord. And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”

This passage reveals God’s mercy and justice in tension a foundational theme in biblical theology, balancing God’s holiness and love.

The Face (Through the Mirror): Jesus Christ Reveals God

God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to reveal the face of God to humanity. Jesus is the ultimate theophany the full, perfect revelation of God in human form (John 1:14; Colossians 1:15).

John 1:18 (NIV)
No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.

Colossians 1:15 (NIV)
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.

Because no sinful human can see God and live, Jesus’ atoning death and resurrection make it possible for us to stand before God’s glory.

Hebrews 9:14 (NIV)
How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death…

Jesus revealed God’s true nature as love, perfectly unconditional and sacrificial.

1 John 4:8 (NIV)
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Seeing God Face to Face: The Future Hope

Currently, we see God “through a mirror” (Greek: katoptron), meaning a partial and indirect vision, a spiritual perception.

1 Corinthians 13:12 (NIV)
For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

The ultimate vision of God beatific vision will happen in heaven, where believers will fully behold God’s glory.

Revelation 22:4 (NIV)
They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.

Conclusion and Invitation

The journey to seeing God’s face:

  • Began with Moses’ partial vision (God’s “back”)
  • Was advanced through Christ, God’s image on earth (the mirror)
  • Will be perfected in heaven when we see God face to face.

Have you received Christ as your Savior? Without Him, no one can withstand God’s glory or see His face and live.

God commands repentance and faith, through which sins are forgiven by Jesus’ sacrifice.

Acts 4:12 (NIV)
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

Choose light over darkness today. Jesus said:

John 3:36 (NIV)
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.

Run to Jesus, receive His grace, and walk in the love of God. The Lord bless you!

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How Can I Understand God’s Will?

 Colossians 1:9

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.
We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.” — Colossians 1:9 (NIV)

In this verse, Paul expresses one of the most important spiritual priorities: that believers should be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. This knowledge isn’t just intellectual   it involves spiritual wisdom  and understanding (synesis) given by the Holy Spirit.

What Is God’s Will?

In Christian theology, God’s will is commonly understood in three dimensions:

God’s Sovereign Will (Decretive Will)

This refers to God’s unchangeable plan that governs all of history. It is hidden and cannot be thwarted.

“The Lord Almighty has sworn, ‘Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will happen.’” — Isaiah 14:24

“Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” — Psalm 115:3


This aligns with the doctrine of divine sovereignty. God’s ultimate purposes (like Christ’s crucifixion for our redemption  Acts 2:23) unfold exactly as He intends.

God’s Moral Will (Preceptive Will)

This is God’s revealed will in Scripture  what He commands all people to do.

“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:3

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Do not lie. Do not steal. Love one another.” — (Various commands in Romans 13, Exodus 20)

This reflects God’s holiness and moral character, and aligns with the ethical aspect of sanctification  growing in Christlikeness (cf. Romans 8:29).

God’s Specific (Personal) Will

This is God’s unique guidance for individual decisions  such as career, relationships, or ministry assignments.

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” — Isaiah 30:21

“The Spirit told Philip, ‘Go to that chariot and stay near it.’” — Acts 8:29


This is associated with divine providence and personal calling, which varies per individual and is discerned over time through spiritual disciplines and surrender.

How Do I Discover God’s Will?

The Bible outlines several key ways by which believers can discern God’s will for their lives:

 1. Prayer — Communing with God

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” — James 1:5

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” — Colossians 4:2

Prayer is a means of grace, a spiritual discipline by which believers engage God relationally and receive His wisdom. According to Reformed theology, prayer aligns us with God’s purposes more than it changes God’s mind (cf. Matthew 6:10 – “Your will be done”).

2. The Word of God — The Foundation of Discernment

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16–17


According to the doctrine of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), the Bible is the highest authority for faith and life. The general will of God is always consistent with Scripture, and personal guidance never contradicts it.

 3. Christian Community & Counsel — The Wisdom of the Body

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14 (ESV)

“It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…” — Acts 15:28


In ecclesiology (the theology of the church), the body of Christ functions together in mutual edification and discernment. This reflects the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9) and the need for communal discernment, especially in major decisions.

 4. Spiritual Discernment — Growth in Wisdom and Maturity

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will.” — Romans 12:2

“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” — Hebrews 5:14


This connects with sanctification and the work of the Holy Spirit. As we grow in Christ, we develop discernment  a spiritual “radar” to sense what aligns with God’s heart. This is what Paul called “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16).

Why Is This So Important?

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven,
but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 7:21

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” — 1 John 2:17


This highlights the difference between nominal Christianity (in name only) and true discipleship. Doing God’s will is not just about knowledge it’s about obedience, which is the fruit of saving faith (James 2:17).

Practical Summary — How to Walk in God’s Will:

Final Encouragement

“The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs… and strengthen your frame.” — Isaiah 58:11 (NIV)

Knowing and doing God’s will is not a mystery for the elite, but a calling for every believer. Through prayer, Scripture, community, and spiritual maturity, God lovingly makes His will known to those who seek Him.

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Be Blessed 

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“Every Man’s Sword Against His Brother” (Ezekiel 38:21)

Introduction

The Bible sometimes describes how God fights battles for His people, not by sending them to fight with swords, but by turning their enemies against each other. In Ezekiel 38:21 (NIV) God says:

“I will summon a sword against Gog on all my mountains, declares the Sovereign Lord. Every man’s sword will be against his brother.”

This means God causes confusion, mistrust, and division in the enemy’s camp until they destroy themselves. This strategy is seen throughout Scripture and carries deep theological lessons for us today.

1. God Uses Confusion as a Weapon

a) Gideon’s Victory

When Gideon’s small army faced a vast enemy, God caused panic and confusion.
Judges 7:22 (NIV):

“When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the Lord caused the men throughout the camp to turn on each other with their swords.”

This shows that victory belongs to the Lord, not to human strength (cf. Zechariah 4:6). God fights for His people in ways that defy human logic.

b) Jehoshaphat’s Deliverance

As Judah worshiped, God caused the Ammonites, Moabites, and men of Mount Seir to destroy each other.

2 Chronicles 20:22–23 (NIV):
“As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes… The Ammonites and Moabites rose up against the men from Mount Seir… After they finished slaughtering them, they helped to destroy one another.”

Worship is not only a weapon against fear but also an invitation for God’s intervention (cf. Psalm 22:3). Where His people exalt Him, He fights their battles.

2. How God Causes Enemies to Turn on Each Other

  1. Confusion of Mind
    God can strike enemies with mental disorder so they mistake allies for enemies.
    Deuteronomy 28:28 (NIV):
    “The Lord will afflict you with madness, blindness and confusion of mind.”
  2. Division in Speech
    Disagreement breaks unity. At Babel, God confused their language (Genesis 11:7), and the project collapsed. Division weakens any force.
  3. Suspicion and Revenge
    Mistrust leads to betrayal and violence. This was seen when Ammon and Moab turned on Seir and then on each other (2 Chronicles 20:23).

God is sovereign over the hearts of nations (Proverbs 21:1). When He decides to protect His people, He destabilizes their enemies from within.

3. New Testament Example: Paul Before the Council

When Paul was on trial, he noticed Pharisees and Sadducees disagreed on the resurrection. He wisely declared his hope in the resurrection, and immediately the council turned against itself.

Acts 23:6–7 (NIV):
“When Paul said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.”

The Spirit gave Paul wisdom (Luke 12:11–12). God can even use human divisions to protect His servants and advance His mission.

4. Satan Also Uses This Weapon

While God uses confusion to save His people, Satan uses it to destroy them when they step outside God’s will.

  • Israel’s Civil War (Judges 19–21): Because the tribe of Benjamin defended sin, Israel was divided, and thousands died.
  • The Church Today: When love and holiness are lost, believers fight one another instead of resisting the true enemy.

Galatians 5:14–15 (NIV):
“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”

Division is one of Satan’s most effective weapons against the Body of Christ (John 17:21). The Church must guard unity and love.

5. Lessons for Believers Today

  1. God fights for His people – We can trust Him to defend us in ways we cannot imagine (Exodus 14:14).
  2. Worship and obedience bring victory – Like Jehoshaphat, praise opens the door for God’s intervention.
  3. Unity is strength – When God’s people are united in love, the enemy cannot prevail (John 13:34–35).
  4. Beware of Satan’s schemes – If we harbor envy, grudges, or hatred, we open the door for self-destruction within the Church.

Conclusion

When God says, “every man’s sword will be against his brother” (Ezekiel 38:21), it reveals His power to fight for His people by turning the enemy against themselves. But it also warns us not to allow Satan to sow division among God’s children.

If we walk in love, holiness, and unity, the Lord Himself will preserve us, while our enemies fall into confusion.

Shalom.

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The Difference Between Admonishing and Rebuking (2 Timothy 4:2)

Question: What is the difference between admonishing and rebuking?

Answer: Let’s begin with Scripture.

2 Timothy 4:1–2 (ESV)
“I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”

Here, Paul instructs Timothy to minister God’s Word faithfully. Importantly, he uses three distinct verbs: reprove, rebuke, and exhort, which reflect different levels of correction and spiritual guidance.

1. Admonishing (Reprove)

Definition: Admonishing is pointing out a fault or sin in a way that corrects, instructs, and guides the sinner toward repentance. It is corrective but often gentle, with a teaching component.

  • Example: A mother may admonish a child for laziness, explaining that laziness is harmful and could have long-term consequences. She may also give guidance on how to improve.
  • Biblical basis: Ephesians 6:4 instructs parents to bring up children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord,” combining correction with teaching.

Admonishment aligns with God’s heart of patient correction (2 Peter 3:9). It allows believers to recognize their faults, learn from them, and grow spiritually. New believers, being spiritually immature, often need admonishment rather than strict rebuke.

2. Rebuking

Definition: Rebuking is a stronger, authoritative correction. It condemns sin and commands that it cease immediately. Rebuke is not a suggestion or advice—it carries authority.

  • Example: A mother rebukes a child for stealing, clearly commanding that it must never happen again.
  • Societal example: Governments rebuke acts like murder, corruption, or rape, declaring them unlawful.

Biblical basis:

  • 1 Corinthians 5:11–13 (ESV):
    “But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality, or greed, or idolatry, or reviling, or drunkenness, or swindling—not even to eat with such a one… ‘Purge the evil person from among you.’”

Here, rebuke can involve temporary exclusion for persistent, unrepentant sin to preserve the holiness of the church.

Rebuke is rooted in God’s holiness and justice. It prevents the spread of sin in the church (1 Corinthians 5:6–7) and reflects the authority of Christ (Matthew 18:15–17). It is necessary for both individual correction and corporate purity.

3. Admonishing vs. Rebuking in Practice

Aspect Admonishing Rebuking
Purpose Correct gently, instruct, guide Condemn sin, command it to stop, protect the church
Approach Gentle, educational, persuasive Firm, authoritative, commanding
When used Minor faults, spiritual immaturity, early correction Serious sins, persistent disobedience, protection of church
Biblical examples Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:16 1 Corinthians 5:11–13, 2 Timothy 4:2
Goal Spiritual growth and learning Holiness, accountability, correction, restoration

Even Jesus Himself rebukes when His followers stray (Revelation 3:19). Rebuke is never harsh vindictiveness; it is righteous, restorative discipline motivated by love (Hebrews 12:6).

4. Rebuking and Spiritual Authority

The concept of rebuke also applies to demonic activity:

  • Luke 9:42 (ESV):
    “And when Jesus had rebuked the unclean spirit, it came out of him, and the boy was healed instantly.”

Here, rebuke is authoritative; it commands the spirit to leave. It is a spiritual command, not a request. Similarly, believers exercise spiritual authority over sin and the enemy, reflecting God’s dominion (Luke 10:19).

Conclusion

  1. Admonish (Reprove): Gentle correction with teaching; for minor faults or spiritual immaturity.
  2. Rebuke: Firm, authoritative command to stop sin; necessary for serious, persistent disobedience or spiritual protection.
  3. Both are essential for spiritual growth, holiness, and church discipline, in accordance with God’s Word and love.

“May the Lord bless and guide us to use His Word faithfully to admonish, rebuke, and restore in love.”

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Let the Mouth of the Holy Spirit Speak Through You

1. Introduction: The Promise of the Holy Spirit Includes Speech

One of the most profound promises of the Holy Spirit to believers is His empowering presence to speak the mind and wisdom of God. This is evident throughout Scripture. From the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 to Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians, Spirit-inspired speech  often in the form of prophecy, prayer, or bold proclamation  is a clear sign of the Spirit at work.

When the Holy Spirit comes into a person’s life, He does not remain silent. He speaks  and often, through the believer’s own mouth. The Spirit does not merely give feelings; He gives words that align with the will and nature of God.

2. The Day of Pentecost: Symbolism of the Tongue

On Pentecost, when the Spirit descended, He appeared as tongues of fire and rested on each of the gathered disciples:

“And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
— Acts 2:3–4 (ESV)

The “tongue” symbolizes speech. Fire, in Scripture, often represents purification, presence, and power (cf. Isaiah 6:6–7). This manifestation was not random. It showed that the primary evidence of the Spirit’s presence would be seen in what believers speak  whether in tongues, prophecy, or preaching.

3. Prophecy is for Every Believer

Contrary to popular belief, prophecy in the New Testament is not restricted to the “office of the prophet.” Paul teaches that all believers can operate in this gift to build up the Church.

“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)

“For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:31 (ESV)

The Greek word for prophesy (prophēteuō) means to speak forth, to declare the will and counsel of God. It includes foretelling (future events) and forth-telling (speaking God’s truth for now). Every believer can do this as the Spirit enables.

4. Speaking Without Fear: The Spirit Will Speak Through You

Jesus taught His disciples not to worry about what to say when brought before authorities, because the Spirit would give them words in the moment.

“For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
— Matthew 10:20 (ESV)

This is an important theological principle: the Spirit indwells us (Romans 8:11) and speaks through us when we yield. The believer becomes a mouthpiece of God when surrendered in obedience.

5. Prophetic Prayer: Let the Spirit Pray Through You

Prayer is another way the Holy Spirit speaks. Paul tells us that even our weakness in prayer is met by the Spirit’s intercession:

“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
— Romans 8:26 (ESV)

Many believers feel they cannot pray for long or run out of words. But the key is not eloquence  it’s surrender. As you continue praying, meditating on God’s Word, and staying in conversation with Him, the Spirit takes over. Sometimes what starts as routine prayer flows into deep intercession, revelation, or prophecy.

6. Don’t Quench the Spirit — Speak Boldly

Paul gives a clear warning:

“Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:19–20 (ESV)

One way we quench the Spirit is by keeping silent when He prompts us to speak. Some people long to speak in tongues or prophesy but never give the Spirit room to act  by opening their mouths and speaking in faith.

7. Everyday Moments Are Opportunities for Prophetic Speech

Sometimes, prophecy doesn’t come with thunder and lightning  it comes through ordinary speech. This is seen in the account of Caiaphas, the high priest:

“He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation.”
— John 11:51 (ESV)

Even without full awareness, his position and words became prophetic. This shows us that God can speak powerfully even through casual conversations, especially when your heart and mind are yielded to Him.

8. Blessing Your Children, Speaking Over Others

In the Old Testament, Isaac spoke blessings over Jacob and Esau, and those words shaped their futures (Genesis 27). You too, as a believer, can speak God’s destiny over your children.

Use your mouth to bless your children and family. Speak life, identity, purpose, and truth. These declarations become prophetic when spoken under the guidance of the Spirit.

9. Healing, Encouragement, and Evangelism: Use Your Voice

If someone is sick, speak healing boldly  not as a ritual, but in faith, trusting the Spirit’s power to back your words. Speak God’s Word over people. Paul said:

“Let all things be done for building up.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:26 (ESV)

Whether you’re preaching, praying, teaching, or just encouraging a friend, let your speech be saturated with Scripture and Spirit-led faith. You never know when you’re delivering a word straight from God’s heart.

10. Conclusion: Your Mouth Is God’s Mouthpiece

The mouth of the believer is not just for human talk  it is an instrument of the Holy Spirit. If you are in Christ and filled with the Spirit, you already have a mouth of fire. Let it speak.

  • Speak the Word.
  • Speak life.
  • Speak boldly in prayer.
  • Speak prophecy.
  • Speak blessings.
  • Speak healing.

“Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.”
— Psalm 81:10 (ESV)

Final Encouragement

Let the Holy Spirit flow through your words  not only in church settings but also in your home, your workplace, and your community. Your obedience in speaking could be someone else’s breakthrough.

May the Lord bless you and anoint your mouth for His glory.

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