Acts 2:23–24 (NIV)
“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
The phrase “agony of death” (or “pains of death” in other translations such as the KJV) refers to the torment and finality of death particularly a death without hope of resurrection or eternal life. In the biblical worldview, death is not merely physical cessation but spiritual separation from God. The Greek word used here, ōdinas (ὠδῖνας), can also be translated as “birth pains” or intense anguish, suggesting deep suffering associated with death (see Romans 8:22).
Before the resurrection of Jesus Christ, death was a terrifying reality for humanity. As Paul says in Romans 5:12 (NIV):
“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
Humanity was under the curse of death, both physically and spiritually. All who died before Christ were subject to corruption (decay) and separation from the presence of God. This included the righteous, who waited in the realm of the dead sometimes referred to as Sheol (Hebrew) or Hades (Greek) a holding place awaiting redemption (Luke 16:22–23).
But Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God, broke the power of death. Though He truly died, He did not remain in the grave or see corruption.
Acts 2:31 (ESV)
“He foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption.”
Unlike all others before Him, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). His resurrection marked the defeat of death’s finality.
Revelation 1:18 (NIV)
“I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”
It was impossible for death to hold Jesus, because He is the Author of Life (Acts 3:15). His divine nature and perfect obedience rendered death powerless against Him.
Christ’s resurrection is not just historical it’s personal. For all who place their faith in Him, the agony of death no longer holds power.
2 Timothy 1:10 (NIV)
“…but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”
When believers die, their spirits do not descend into torment or unconsciousness. Instead, they are taken immediately into the presence of the Lord.
2 Corinthians 5:8 (NIV)
“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
This is why Matthew 27:51–53 speaks of saints rising at Christ’s resurrectiona foretaste of what all believers will experience.
Furthermore, the resurrection of believers is guaranteed by Christ’s own resurrection.
1 Corinthians 15:20–22 (NIV)
“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
We await the redemption of our bodies at the Second Coming (Romans 8:23), when we will receive glorified bodies fit for eternity (Philippians 3:20–21).
However, for those who die in sin outside of Christ the agony of death is just the beginning. Upon death, the soul enters a state of conscious torment, awaiting final judgment.
Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…”
The story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31) offers a vivid picture of this reality: the rich man dies and finds himself in torment, separated from God, unable to cross the chasm between himself and paradise.
Eventually, both body and soul will be reunited at the final resurrection, but for judgment.
Revelation 20:14–15 (NIV)
“Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”
This is the full weight of what it means to be held by the agony of death eternal separation from God, under divine judgment.
Are you still living in sin? Are you spiritually lukewarm? Scripture warns us that we do not know the day or hour of our departure from this life.
James 4:14 (NIV)
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
If today were your last day, whose presence would you find yourself in Christ’s or that of eternal separation?
The answer lies not just in your heart but in the truth of the Gospel. Repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31).
Shalom. Peace be upon you as you consider these eternal truths.
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What does the prophecy of the dry bones mean for us today, both spiritually and practically?
The prophet Ezekiel, who lived during the Babylonian exile (6th century BC), was shown a vision by God that profoundly illustrated Israel’s spiritual condition and God’s promise of national and spiritual restoration (Ezekiel 37:1-14). The dry bones represent the people of Israel, who had been “dead” in captivity, feeling hopeless and cut off from their homeland and from God’s presence.
This vision is not only a literal promise of physical restoration God bringing Israel back from exile but also a powerful metaphor for spiritual revival. The bones “very dry” (Ezekiel 37:2, NIV) symbolize utter hopelessness and death, both physical and spiritual. The question God poses, “Can these bones live?” (v. 3, NIV), invites Ezekiel and through him, all believers to trust in God’s power to restore life.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 (NIV)
“The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry.”
God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, symbolizing the Spirit’s power to bring life to what is dead (v. 4-6). When Ezekiel obeys, the bones come together, sinews and flesh appear, and breath (the Hebrew ruach, meaning breath, wind, or spirit) enters them, bringing them to life (v. 7-10). This reveals a profound truth: life is impossible without the Spirit of God (cf. John 6:63; Ezekiel 37:14).
God explicitly identifies the bones as “the whole house of Israel,” who feel hopeless, “Our bones are dried up, and our hope is gone; we are cut off” (v. 11, NIV). But He promises restoration, resurrection, and a renewed relationship: “I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live… Then you will know that I am the Lord” (v. 14).
This passage beautifully connects with several biblical themes:
The message of hope through faith is echoed in Hebrews 11, where Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrates trust in God’s power to give life (Hebrews 11:17-19, NIV):
“By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had received the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son… Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive Isaac back from death.”
This links perfectly with the dry bones vision, emphasizing faith in God’s life giving power.
Many people may feel like dry bones today hopeless, broken in health, faith, or circumstance. Whether facing chronic illness, depression, loss, or spiritual dryness, God’s promise remains: He can restore, revive, and breathe new life.
If you feel this way, the call is to trust God’s Spirit and His Word. God’s power transcends death and despair.
Kneel or sit quietly, raise your hand, and pray sincerely:
Prayer:
Father God, I acknowledge that You alone are the Almighty God, full of power and mercy. I believe that through Jesus Christ, You can bring life to what seems dead in my life whether body, mind, or spirit. Please forgive my sins, both known and unknown. Cleanse me through the blood of Jesus Christ, and renew me with Your Holy Spirit. (Here, name your specific need or struggle.) Revive me, strengthen me, and help me walk in Your will all the days of my life. Thank You for Your forgiveness, Your help, and Your freedom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Repeat this prayer until you feel peace in your heart and trust that God is at work in your life.
May God bless you richly as you trust in His power to restore and renew!
Praise the Lord Jesus! Welcome back to this series exploring the different rewards God has promised and the criteria He will use to give them. We’ve already looked at several key principles in the past parts, and today we continue with Part Five.
God has promised to give great authority to those who serve Him faithfully while here on earth.
Let’s look at a parable Jesus shared to understand this better:
Luke 19:12–26 (NIV) 12 “He said: ‘A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. “Put this money to work,” he said, “until I come back.” 14 “But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, ‘We don’t want this man to be our king.’ 15 “He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 “The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.’ 17 “‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ 18 “The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.’ 19 “His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.’ 20 “Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.’ 22 “His master replied, ‘I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then didn’t you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?’ 24 “Then he said to those standing by, ‘Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.’ 25 “‘Sir,’ they said, ‘he already has ten!’ 26 “‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away.’”
This parable speaks clearly for itself. When the Lord gives you a measure of grace or responsibility here on earth, He expects you to use it and multiply it faithfully.
For example, if He’s given you the grace to clean the church compound, He expects you to go above and beyond making sure the toilets are clean, the windows are spotless, and the chairs are always in order.
Why? Because when He returns, He’ll evaluate what He entrusted you with and how well you managed it. If you viewed your task as unimportant and neglected it, He may ask, “If sweeping felt too beneath you, couldn’t you have hired someone to do it, rather than leave My house untidy and overgrown?”
Just like He said to the servant who hid the money, “Why didn’t you at least put it in the bank so I could get interest when I returned?”
That’s how He will evaluate each of us.
But if we’re faithful with what He’s given us—even if it seems small—and we put in the effort to do even more, then know this: your faithfulness today will determine your authority in God’s Kingdom tomorrow. If God rewards with cities, your rulership over those cities will match the level of your faithfulness now.
This should encourage us to serve the Lord wholeheartedly without making excuses, without looking down on any task, and striving to go above and beyond wherever we can. It’s those “little things” that will ultimately measure the riches of our reward.
May the Lord bless you as you serve Him faithfully.
Greetings to you in the most powerful name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Welcome once again as we continue our study of God’s Word. We’re still exploring the topic of God’s various rewards and the standards He uses to give them. This is Part 4.
Jesus spoke to a Pharisee who had invited Him to a banquet and shared this powerful teaching:
Luke 14:12–14 (NIV) Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Luke 14:15 (NIV) When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”
If you’re a believer who has been saved, don’t forget to care for those in need. Use what God has blessed you with to help the poor and vulnerable. Why? Because there is a great reward in heaven waiting for those who remember the needy—especially on that day when the Lord raises His chosen ones to give them their eternal rewards.
When you give, or when you host celebrations, don’t only include people who are well-off or who can return the favor. Go out of your way to invite or support those who have nothing to offer in return. Don’t limit your generosity to those who have helped you—extend it to those who can’t. In doing so, you’re storing up real treasure in heaven.
The Apostle Paul was committed to this principle. After meeting with the apostles, this is what he said:
Galatians 2:9–10 (NIV) James, Cephas and John, those esteemed as pillars, gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship when they recognized the grace given to me. They agreed that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised. All they asked was that we should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I had been eager to do all along.
Do you see it? When we notice those who are struggling—the poor, the orphans, and those who are lacking—we should see that as our opportunity to earn great rewards in heaven. Let’s make every effort to help.
In heaven, our wealth won’t be measured by what we had on earth, but by what we did with it—especially acts of generosity like these. If everything we receive is spent only on ourselves or shared only with those like us, we are actually diminishing our eternal reward.
Giving doesn’t require us to be rich. Even if you have just a little—say 100 shillings—you can give 50 to help someone in need and still have enough for yourself. It’s the heart behind the giving that God rewards.
May the Lord help us see this clearly, and may we start today to remember and care for those in need.
God bless you.
Shalom. This is part three of a series of articles explaining the criteria God will use to reward His people and how He will welcome them into His kingdom. If you missed the earlier parts, please message me, and I’ll send you summaries.
3) The Bible shows that some people will enter God’s kingdom without even realizing why.
It’s remarkable that there’s a group of people who will be granted the grace to enter the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, without fully understanding the reason until Christ Himself reveals it on that day.
We read about this group in the following passage:
Matthew 25:31-46 (NIV): “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
This group represents Christ’s servants here on earth who did not realize that by serving others, they were serving Christ Himself. This passage isn’t about the poor or orphans in general, but about the saints those devoted to serving God who endured hardship like lack of food, clothing, illness, and homelessness. Some saw and helped these servants, unaware that in doing so, they were serving Christ.
On that day, these faithful servants will stand before Christ, and He will graciously grant them entry into His kingdom. This is similar to the example of the dishonest manager in Luke 16:1-12.
The Apostle Paul also prayed for mercy on behalf of a brother named Onesiphorus, recognizing how faithfully he cared for and supported him during his ministry:
2 Timothy 1:16-18 (ESV): “May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome he searched hard for me until he found me. May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day! And you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.”
Similarly, there are those who see people seeking God as a burden. They mock, insult, and even drive them away. When these seekers ask for water, they are labeled lazy. True servants of God can be a nuisance to such people and on the final day, Christ will reject them.
What does this teach us? When we say we love Christ, we must also love those who love Him. If you hate the saints, how can you truly love Christ? There are people Christ will welcome because they showed love and kindness to His followers. And there are those He will reject because they refused to welcome Him in the form of others.
Shalom.
Praise the Lord Jesus! In this series, we’re going to explore the criteria God will use to reward His people once we reach eternity. Understanding these principles can stir up our passion for serving God—just like it did for the Apostle Paul, who wrote:
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:14 (NIV)
We’ll examine a few key passages that paint a picture of how God will distribute rewards.
At first glance, this may seem unfair. But Jesus addressed this directly in Matthew 20:1–16, using a parable to explain the Kingdom of Heaven. Let’s look at it:
Matthew 20:1–16 (NIV) “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard. About nine in the morning he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. He told them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So they went. He went out again about noon and about three in the afternoon and did the same thing. About five in the afternoon he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’ ‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. He said to them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard.’ When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’ The workers who were hired about five in the afternoon came and each received a denarius. So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’ But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Now, who are these people who will receive the same reward as those who’ve labored long and hard in God’s work?
Take a closer look: those who came in last weren’t working anywhere else beforehand. They weren’t lazy—they simply hadn’t been given the opportunity. When the landowner asked why they had been standing around all day, they said, “Because no one has hired us.”
This tells us something profound: there are people who haven’t yet encountered the grace of salvation. Perhaps they’ve lived long lives in ignorance—like someone from a completely unreached people group or another religion. Maybe they’re 80 years old when they finally hear the Gospel for the first time, truly believe, and surrender their life to Christ. From that moment on, they serve God with all their heart, maybe for only one year—then they pass away.
Or maybe someone gets saved at 20 and only lives until 22. They serve faithfully for two years and then die.
Should we be surprised if they receive the same reward as a lifetime missionary or a church leader? Not at all. When grace found them, their opportunity to serve was short—but they were faithful with what they had. Had they known Christ earlier, they would have served longer. God sees the heart and the potential.
If you’ve heard the message of grace today but continue to take it lightly—one day walking with Christ, and the next, back in sin—you are not stable. Don’t expect Christ to reward you if you die in such a spiritual condition.
Some of us were born into Christian homes. We know the truth. We understand that without salvation, there is no eternal life. So if someone like that refuses to live faithfully, don’t expect the same reward as the pagan who just got saved and died shortly after.
Jesus said clearly:
“So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” —Matthew 20:16 (NIV)
We are living in the last days. Don’t waste the grace God has extended to you. If you’ve been given more time, use it well. Serve Him with all your heart, because you’ll be held accountable for how you used your time and opportunities.
Stay faithful. Be watchful. And be encouraged—God is fair, and He is good.
Be blessed.
In every generation, God places certain people in His Church in ways that seem unusual or even out of place. Their background, language, position, or circumstances might set them apart. Yet, their placement is not by accident it is divinely intentional.
Often, such individuals may feel disconnected or assume they have little to offer in ministry. They may keep a low profile or stay spiritually inactive, assuming that God’s work is for others more qualified. But the truth is this: God expects fruit from every life He plants.
Let’s consider a parable Jesus told:
Luke 13:6–9 (NIV) “Then he told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’ “‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
The vineyard in Scripture often symbolizes Israel or the Church (see Isaiah 5:1–7, Matthew 21:33–41). The fig tree, though distinct from the vines, is planted intentionally within the vineyard. This fig tree represents individuals whom God has placed among His people those who may stand out for their uniqueness but are still expected to be fruitful.
The vineyard owner (God) visits the fig tree repeatedly, looking for fruit. Despite its uniqueness, the expectation is the same as for the vines: growth and productivity. Jesus’ message here is a call to spiritual accountability. No one is exempt from the call to bear fruit.
John 15:2 (NIV) “He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”
Matthew 3:10 (NIV) “The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Jesus isn’t just speaking to church leaders or evangelists. The call to fruitfulness applies to every believer whether visible in ministry or seemingly hidden. Whether you’re a new believer, a professional in a secular job, a stay at home parent, or someone with language or cultural barriers your life is still part of God’s vineyard.
The parable shows only one fig tree among many vines. This reflects how some believers are called in unique ways, for specific purposes. The owner doesn’t expect the fig tree to produce grapes but he does expect it to produce figs. In the same way, God doesn’t expect you to serve exactly like others but He does expect you to fulfill the purpose for which He planted you.
1 Corinthians 12:4–6 (NIV) “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.”
The fig tree wasn’t neglected it was cultivated, fertilized, and given extra care. God is patient with us, giving us opportunities, teaching, encouragement, and time. But His patience is not indefinite.
The parable ends with urgency. If the fig tree still remains fruitless, it will be cut down. This echoes the reality of final judgment:
Revelation 22:12 (NIV) “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”
God will reward His people according to their faithfulness, not their visibility. Those who spent years simply listening to sermons without action will need to answer: What did I do for the Lord?
James 2:17 (NIV) “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
You are not in the vineyard by mistake. God planted you where you are, not just to be present, but to bear fruit whether that’s through service, generosity, encouragement, prayer, teaching, or even quiet faithfulness that impacts others.
These are the final days. The time for fruitfulness is now. Don’t assume your role is small or unimportant.
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Let each of us examine our hearts: Am I bearing fruit in the place God has planted me? If not, now is the time to respond to be cultivated, to grow, and to bring forth fruit that glorifies God.
Shalom, and welcome! Let’s take a moment to learn and remind ourselves of our responsibilities as believers on this journey of faith here on earth.
There are times when we fail to act for God, telling ourselves, “God understands.” Yet, Scripture shows that these are excuses before Him, hindering our spiritual walk.
Common Understanding vs. Biblical Meaning of “Excuse”
Typically, an excuse is thought of as a false or deceptive reason to avoid responsibility. For example, if someone asks you to help with a task, and you respond with a made up story to avoid it, that’s a classic excuse.
But the Bible’s teaching is deeper. In Luke 14:16–24, Jesus tells a parable where invited guests provide genuine, reasonable reasons for not attending a banquet. These reasons seem valid, yet the host regards them as excuses (Greek: λόγος προσχήματος, “pretext” or “justification” that masks true refusal).
Let’s look at the passage from the NIV and ESV:
Luke 14:16-24 (NIV):
“A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’ Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’“Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’”
God’s Invitation Is Holy and Urgent: The banquet symbolizes the Kingdom of God and the call to salvation and fellowship with Him (cf. Matthew 22:2-14).
Excuses Reflect Worldly Priorities: The invited guests prioritize earthly affairs property, possessions, and personal pleasures over God’s invitation. These reflect misplaced values (Colossians 3:2).
God’s Judgment on Rejection: The host’s anger and the invitation extended to the marginalized (poor, crippled, blind, lame) emphasize that God’s kingdom is open to all who respond, but those who reject Him face exclusion (Matthew 8:11-12).
No Partiality: The banquet’s fullness symbolizes God’s desire for a full and willing heart (Romans 2:11).
Modern Application
Today, many avoid church or fellowship for seemingly valid reasons: demanding jobs, family commitments, or other responsibilities. They say, “God understands.” But Scripture warns that such reasoning may be a dangerous excuse, a subtle way of putting worldly priorities above God.
Daniel’s Example: Despite threats from King Darius, Daniel refused to stop praying to God (Daniel 6). His faithfulness, even under persecution, is a model of unwavering devotion.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: They refused to worship Nebuchadnezzar’s idol, rejecting any excuse for disobedience (Daniel 3). God’s miraculous deliverance affirmed their faith.
Don’t Deceive Yourself
If you serve your company six days a week but neglect God’s day, you risk stealing from God (Malachi 3:8-10).
Don’t let work, family, or material concerns consume your worship time. Prioritize God above all (Matthew 6:33).
Excuses today may exclude you from the wedding feast of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9).
“Not one of those who were invited will taste my banquet.” (Luke 14:24, NIV)
Those who place personal interests above God risk missing the eternal joy of His kingdom.
Question to Reflect On:Are you offering God sincere worship, or just excuses? The answer lies with you.
Maranatha!
QUESTION: Daniel 7:14 prophesies that the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ will last forever. But in 1 Corinthians 15:24, Paul says that at the end, Christ will hand over the Kingdom to God the Father. Does this mean that Jesus will give up His rule? What exactly does this mean?
“In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
This passage is a prophetic vision given to Daniel of the Messiah, “one like a son of man” a title Jesus frequently used for Himself (cf. Matthew 26:64). He is brought before the “Ancient of Days” (a title for God the Father) and is given everlasting dominion and an indestructible kingdom. The emphasis here is on the permanence and sovereignty of Christ’s rule over all nations.
“Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.”
Paul is describing the final stage of redemptive history. After Christ has subdued every enemy including death itself He will hand over the Kingdom to God the Father. This does not mean Christ ceases to reign. Instead, it signifies the completion of His mediatorial role as the Messiah the one who rules on behalf of humanity to reconcile all things to God (cf. Colossians 1:19–20).
Within the doctrine of the Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons, yet one in essence (cf. Matthew 28:19). The Son’s mission is not independent of the Father, but in perfect unity with Him
(John 10:30 “I and the Father are one.”).
The “handing over” in 1 Corinthians 15:24 is not about surrendering power but about the consummation of the redemptive work. Christ, as the God Man, mediates the Kingdom. Once all things are subject to Him, He delivers it to the Father not as abdication, but as a final act of glorification of the Triune God.
This aligns with Philippians 2:9–11 (NIV):
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Even in exaltation, the Son’s lordship glorifies the Father. The Kingdom is unified not divided because the will of the Father and the Son are one.
At present, Christ reigns spiritually in the hearts of believers (Luke 17:21), and through His Church (Colossians 1:13). However, there is a future, literal manifestation of His rule often referred to as the Millennial Reign (Revelation 20:4–6), during which Christ will reign on earth for a thousand years. This period will culminate in the final defeat of evil, including death itself.
After that, the New Heavens and New Earth will be revealed (Revelation 21:1–5), and God will dwell with His people forever. This is when the fullness of the Kingdom is realized not just spiritually or temporarily, but eternally.
No. Jesus does not relinquish His Kingdom in the sense of stepping away from His divine rule. Instead, the “handing over” signifies the perfect fulfillment of His redemptive mission. It marks the transition from Christ’s mediatorial kingship to the eternal reign of God, where Christ still reigns, but in the eternal unity of the Godhead.
As theologian Anthony Hoekema puts it:“Christ’s kingly rule does not end; rather, the form of His rule changes.”
The Kingdom of Christ is eternal because Christ is God (John 1:1–3). What Daniel saw is fulfilled through Jesus’ death, resurrection, ascension, and ultimate return. When Christ hands the Kingdom to the Father, He is not stepping down but bringing all things to their proper end, so that “God may be all in all” (1 Corinthians 15:28).
His Kingdom will never be destroyed, never be overthrown, and will never be given to another (Daniel 7:14). Glory, power, and dominion belong to Him forever and ever.
Amen.
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Grace and peace to you in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Today, let’s explore a foundational biblical principle: If you desire a God ordained spouse, you must position yourself in the environment where God reveals His will. This teaching is not about formulas but about alignment aligning yourself with God’s purposes, character, and presence.
The world offers a very different path to finding a spouse one focused on external appearances, popularity, sensuality, and status. To attract worldly attention, people often adopt worldly behaviors: dressing seductively, attending constant parties, flaunting themselves on social media, and following celebrity trends. But this approach is rooted in the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life all of which are not from the Father.
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” 1 John 2:15 (NIV)
God, however, does not operate through outward appearance or cultural popularity. He searches the heart.
“People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)
Let’s consider Isaac a man of promise and covenant. His story provides a beautiful example of how God orchestrates relationships when we are walking in obedience and spiritual focus.
Genesis 24:62–63 (NIV) “Now Isaac had come from Beer Lahai Roi, for he was living in the Negev. He went out to the field one evening to meditate, and as he looked up, he saw camels approaching.”
Isaac wasn’t looking for a wife through worldly efforts. He was meditating a word that suggests prayerful reflection, likely communing with God in solitude. This posture of spiritual attentiveness is significant: it was in that environment that God revealed Rebekah, his future wife.
Psalm 1:2 (NIV) “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This setting wasn’t coincidental. Abraham, Isaac’s father, was careful to ensure that Isaac’s wife came from his ancestral household not from the surrounding Canaanite culture, which was steeped in idolatry. This act of faith and obedience demonstrates how serious the covenant of marriage was, not just emotionally or culturally, but theologically.
Genesis 24:3–4 (NIV) “I want you to swear by the Lord… that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites… but go to my country and my own relatives and get a wife for my son Isaac.”
Rebekah herself was also found in a posture of humility, service, and hospitality she offered water not only to the servant but to his camels, which was no small task (Genesis 24:18–20). Her character was godly, her heart was ready, and her actions spoke louder than appearance.
Isaac’s time in the field symbolized withdrawal from noise and engagement with God. He chose to spend time in the presence of God, and it was in that very moment that God revealed his future wife. He did not strive, flirt, or chase he meditated. That is how God’s blessings often arrive: not in the frenzy, but in the stillness.
Psalm 46:10 (NIV) “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Matthew 6:33 (NIV) “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Brothers, if you desire a godly woman one who fears the Lord and walks in virtue don’t chase the world. Be like Isaac. Develop a relationship with God in the secret place. Let your strength come from devotion, not display. Remember, Rebekah was both beautiful and godly, but Isaac found her while seeking God, not women.
Proverbs 31:30 (NIV) “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
Sisters, if you desire a man of integrity and spiritual maturity, don’t conform to worldly patterns. The world will tell you that beauty, flirtation, and popularity will get you a husband but what kind of man are you attracting that way? You don’t need to dress like Jezebel to be noticed live like a daughter of Sarah.
1 Peter 3:3–4 (NIV) “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment… Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
God does not abandon His children. David testifies of this truth in his later years:
Psalm 37:25 (NIV) “I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.”
This includes the desire for marriage. God will not withhold what is good from those who walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11 (NIV) “No good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
If you’ve been walking in the patterns of the world, now is the time to return to God. Repentance is not just a feeling it’s a decision to turn away from sin and toward righteousness.
Romans 12:2 (NIV) “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.”
Renounce the ways of the world the revealing outfits, the prideful trends, and the empty pursuit of attention. Don’t worry if people call you “old-fashioned” or “religious.” God is not looking for relevance; He is looking for righteousness.
As you dwell in His presence, He will prepare your heart and the heart of your future spouse. When the time is right, He will orchestrate the meeting just as He did for Isaac and Rebekah.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV) “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4 (NIV)
Marriage is not just a romantic arrangement it’s a spiritual covenant. Trust God to write your story. Stay in the field. Stay in prayer. Stay in purity.
The Lord bless you and keep you. May He guide your steps and fulfill His perfect will in your life.