THE THREE TEMPTATIONS OF JESUS CHRIST
INTRODUCTION
When Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Matthew 4:1), it wasn’t just for a dramatic confrontation with Satan—it was for divine preparation. The 40 days of fasting symbolized deep communion with the Father and readiness for public ministry, just like Moses’ 40-day fast on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28). But during that period, Satan attacked with strategic temptations—not random tests, but profound challenges representing the core struggles of every believer.
“Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.”
– Luke 4:1
These three temptations carry foundational theological significance, revealing:
- The true nature of Sonship and obedience,
- The proper use of power and authority,
- And the necessity of faithful suffering over self-preservation.
Let’s explore each temptation in detail.
TEMPTATION #1: TURNING STONES INTO BREAD
The Temptation of Physical Desire and Self-Will
“And the devil said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.’
But Jesus answered him, saying, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.”’”
– Luke 4:3–4
Jesus was genuinely hungry. Satan tempted Him to use divine power to meet a legitimate need—but without waiting on the Father’s will. This was a test of dependence vs. self-sufficiency.
According to Philippians 2:6–8, Jesus, though fully divine, chose to empty Himself and obey even unto death. Using His power selfishly would contradict that humility and obedience.
“He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death…”
– Philippians 2:8
Satan often tempts us at our weakest points—physical needs, emotional pain, or life pressures. The temptation is not just to eat, marry, or succeed, but to do so outside of God’s timing or will. True sonship means trusting the Father even when hungry.
“Blessed is the man who endures temptation… when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life.”
– James 1:12
TEMPTATION #2: THE KINGDOMS OF THE WORLD
The Temptation of Power, Glory, and Idolatry
“Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world…
And the devil said to Him, ‘All this authority I will give You… if You will worship before me.’”
– Luke 4:5–7
This temptation was about idolatry and compromise. Jesus had come to establish a kingdom (Isaiah 9:6–7), but Satan offered Him the crown without the cross. Jesus responded with pure devotion to the Father.
“You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.”
– Luke 4:8, quoting Deuteronomy 6:13
Jesus rejected glory that bypassed suffering. This echoes the theology of cruciform victory—the path to exaltation is through obedience and the cross.
“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name.”
– Philippians 2:9
We too are tempted to compromise values for fame, money, or approval. Ministries, businesses, or careers can become idols when we choose worldly success over God’s way.
“What profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”
– Matthew 16:26
TEMPTATION #3: THROW YOURSELF FROM THE TEMPLE
The Temptation of Presumption and Spiritual Pride
“Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here…’”
– Luke 4:9
“Jesus answered and said to him, ‘It has been said, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God.”’”
– Luke 4:12, quoting Deuteronomy 6:16
This is the test of misusing Scripture and manipulating God. Satan quoted Psalm 91 to tempt Jesus into showing off His divine protection. But faith never means forcing God’s hand.
Jesus understood that God’s promises are not tools for self-glory. Testing God is pride disguised as faith.
“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
– James 4:6
This temptation is relevant for those who try to manipulate God through declarations, showmanship, or false faith. Spiritual pride leads many to “jump,” expecting God to catch them—without ever consulting His will.
THE THEOLOGY OF VICTORY IN TEMPTATION
These three temptations reflect the three key areas where humanity fell in Genesis 3:6—“the tree was good for food” (desire), “pleasant to the eyes” (glory), “desirable to make one wise” (pride).
Jesus, the second Adam (Romans 5:18–19), conquered every area where Adam failed.
“For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.”
– Romans 5:19
Each time, Jesus quoted Deuteronomy—showing that the Word of God is the weapon of victory (Ephesians 6:17). He stood on truth, not emotion. The wilderness wasn’t defeat—it was training ground for glory.
THREE TEMPTATIONS IN A CHRISTIAN’S LIFE
These temptations represent three major stages in the life of every believer:
- The Temptation of Needs – Early in faith, when we struggle to trust God with our lives (Matthew 6:33).
- The Temptation of Ambition – In service, when we desire ministry success, fame, or influence (1 John 2:16).
- The Temptation of Self-Exaltation – Toward the end of life or calling, when we want comfort or escape from suffering (2 Timothy 4:6–8).
True victory is not simply surviving trials, but overcoming them by staying faithful to God’s will to the end.
“He who overcomes shall sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame…”
– Revelation 3:21
FOLLOWING JESUS TO THE END
Jesus could have avoided the cross. Even on the cross, He could have come down (Matthew 27:40–43). But He endured to the end, fulfilling the Father’s will. His victory becomes our example:
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
– Luke 9:23
To every believer, Jesus says:
“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
– Matthew 26:41
And to every overcomer, the reward awaits:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…”
– 2 Timothy 4:7–8
“This Generation Will Not Pass Away…” – What Did Jesus Mean?
(Matthew 24:34)
“Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.”
These words from Jesus were part of His response to His disciples when they asked Him about the end of the age (Matthew 24:3). He had just given them a detailed prophecy of what would happen before His return. This message was not only for His immediate audience, but for all believers, especially in the last days. It is a call to spiritual alertness and a reminder that God’s Word never fails (Isaiah 55:11).
1. The Signs of the End Times: Birth Pains Before the Return
Matthew 24:6–8:
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars… For nation will rise against nation… and there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.”
Jesus described these global events as “birth pains” (Greek: ōdinōn), meaning they will increase in frequency and intensity as the end approaches—just like labor pains before a birth. This teaches us that history is moving toward a divinely appointed climax—the return of Christ and the full establishment of His Kingdom (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 11:15).
2. Apostasy and Cold Love: A Spiritual Decline
Matthew 24:10–12:
“And then many will be offended, will betray one another… Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”
The moral and spiritual decay described here reflects the great falling away (apostasy) mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. This decline will affect even believers who are not rooted in the truth. The Greek word for “love” here is agapē—divine love—which implies even those in the Church may grow cold unless they remain in Christ (John 15:5-6).
3. The Destruction of Jerusalem: A Historical Fulfillment
Luke 21:20–24:
“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near…”
This prophecy was fulfilled in 70 A.D. when Roman forces destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. Jesus wept over the city (Luke 19:41–44) because it missed its day of visitation. This was also a partial fulfillment of Daniel 9:26–27, which pointed to judgment and dispersion because of unbelief.
4. The Restoration of Israel: The Fig Tree Blossoms Again
Matthew 24:32–33:
“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.”
Biblically, Israel is symbolized by the fig tree (Hosea 9:10; Jeremiah 24:5–7). The blossoming of the fig tree in this parable is widely understood as a prophetic picture of Israel becoming a nation again, which happened miraculously in 1948 after nearly 2,000 years of dispersion—fulfilling Ezekiel 36:24–28 and Isaiah 66:8.
5. “This Generation Will Not Pass…” – What Generation?
Matthew 24:34:
“Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.”
The Greek word used for “generation” is genea, which can refer to:
- A specific group of people living at a certain time
- A type or kind of people (such as unbelieving Israel)
- Or, prophetically, the generation that witnesses the rebirth of Israel
When read in context with the fig tree parable, it points to the generation that sees Israel restored—meaning those alive in or after 1948. According to Psalm 90:10:
“The days of our lives are seventy years; and if by reason of strength they are eighty years…”
So Jesus is saying the final events will unfold within the lifetime of that generation—a powerful indicator that we are very near the return of Christ.
6. “Heaven and Earth Will Pass Away…” – But His Word Endures
Matthew 24:35:
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”
Jesus emphasizes the absolute certainty of His prophecy. This echoes Isaiah 40:8, where it says:
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.”
This reassures believers: even when the world changes or crumbles, God’s Word is eternal and trustworthy.
7. The Call to Watchfulness and Prayer
Luke 21:34–36:
“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life… Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things…”
This is a warning against spiritual slumber (Romans 13:11–14). Jesus urges us not to be distracted by worldly things, but to live in constant readiness. The only way to escape coming judgment is through true faith, holiness, and abiding in Him (1 John 2:28).
8. The Need for the Holy Spirit
Romans 8:9:
“Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.”
The wise virgins in Matthew 25:1–13 had oil (a symbol of the Holy Spirit), while the foolish did not. Only those filled with the Holy Spirit will be ready when the Bridegroom comes. We are sealed by the Holy Spirit for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30).
9. Denominations Don’t Save – Jesus Does
Jesus is not returning for a denomination, but for a holy bride (Revelation 19:7–8). Salvation is not about religious labels; it’s about being born again (John 3:3–6), abiding in Christ (John 15:4), and walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16–25).
10. “Come Out of Her, My People” – Separation from Babylon
Revelation 18:4:
“Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.”
God calls His people to separate from spiritual Babylon—a symbol of false religion, corruption, and worldliness. This is a call to purity, holiness, and truth (2 Corinthians 6:17–18).
We Are the Final Generation
Everything Jesus spoke about is unfolding in our generation—from Israel’s restoration to the increase in wickedness, natural disasters, and spiritual deception. These are not coincidences—they are prophetic fulfillments. The time is short.
Are you ready for His return?
Now is the time to:
- Repent (Acts 3:19)
- Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18)
- Live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age (Titus 2:11–13)
“Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)
The Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil
Genesis 2:8-9
“And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground the Lord God made to spring up every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.”
1. Every Tree Pleasant to the Eye and Good for Food
God provided Adam with abundant provision—fruit trees “pleasant to the eye and good for food” (v.9). Theologically, this reflects God’s goodness and generosity in creation, providing fully for human needs (Psalm 104:14-15). The command was not to abstain from these trees, but freedom was given to enjoy God’s provision (Genesis 1:29).
This abundance symbolizes the goodness of God’s created order before the Fall.
2. The Tree of Life in the Middle of the Garden
This unique tree symbolized eternal life. Eating from it granted life that never ends. Theologically, the Tree of Life points to the divine life that comes only from God. After Adam’s sin, access to the Tree of Life was blocked (Genesis 3:22-24), signifying that fallen humanity is separated from eternal life unless restored by God’s grace.
Jesus Christ reveals Himself as the true Tree of Life:
John 14:6
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 6:47-51
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life… whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
The principle here is salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Eternal life is not obtained by works or natural means but only through union with Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9).
The fruits of this life are described in Galatians 5:22-23 as the fruit of the Spirit, evidencing transformation by God’s grace.
3. The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil
This tree represents sin and death. God commanded Adam not to eat from it, warning of death (Genesis 2:17). Theologically, it symbolizes the boundary of God’s authority and human responsibility to obey God’s Word.
When Adam and Eve disobeyed, they chose autonomy over God’s authority, resulting in the Fall (Romans 5:12). Sin introduced spiritual and physical death into humanity and the world (Romans 6:23).
The serpent, identified in later Scripture as Satan (Revelation 12:9), used deception to tempt humanity (Genesis 3). This temptation appeals to human pride and desire for self-determination apart from God (1 John 2:16).
Continuing Spiritual Reality and Choice
The choice between these two trees continues today spiritually:
- The Tree of Life represents faith and obedience to Christ, leading to eternal life (John 3:16).
- The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil represents rebellion and sin, leading to death (Romans 6:23).
Paul warns believers:
Romans 6:16
“Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
The Bible makes clear that eternal life is only found in Jesus (Acts 4:12). Choosing sin leads to eternal separation from God (Matthew 25:46).
God’s offer of grace is urgent (Hebrews 3:7-8). Today is the day to choose life through Jesus Christ (Deuteronomy 30:19; 2 Corinthians 6:2).
Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior?
Have you received the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
May the grace of God guide you into life eternal.
THE LORD’S TABLE AND FOOT WASHING
One of the most profound practices that our Lord Jesus Christ gave to His disciples and to the entire Church is the sacrament of partaking in the Lord’s Table, alongside the act of washing one another’s feet. These two ordinances—along with baptism and women covering their heads during worship—hold deep theological significance. Let’s explore these two practices in greater detail.
THE LORD’S TABLE:
The Lord’s Table (also called the Eucharist or Holy Communion) is central to the Christian faith. It is the sacred act in which believers partake of bread and wine, symbolizing the body and blood of Christ. This practice was instituted by Jesus during the Last Supper with His disciples and holds deep theological implications.
Matthew 26:26-28 (NKJV)
26 “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body.’
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.
28 For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.'”
Here, Jesus establishes a new covenant in His blood. His body (represented by the bread) and His blood (represented by the wine) are given to His disciples as the means of salvation. This act points forward to His sacrifice on the cross, where He would offer His body and blood for the forgiveness of sins.
In John 6:53-56, Jesus elaborates on the spiritual significance of partaking in His body and blood:
John 6:53-56 (NIV)
53 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.
54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.
55 For My flesh is real food, and My blood is real drink.
56 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in them.”
Theologically, this points to the deep union between Christ and the believer. To partake in the Eucharist is to receive Christ’s life within oneself, to be spiritually nourished, and to participate in His redemptive work.
THE SPIRITUAL BENEFITS OF PARTAKING IN THE LORD’S TABLE:
Proclaiming the Death of Christ Until He Returns:
The Apostle Paul underscores the importance of the Lord’s Table in 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NKJV):
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.“
By partaking in the Eucharist, believers proclaim Christ’s sacrificial death and its significance for humanity’s salvation. This proclamation not only remembers Christ’s death but also anticipates His second coming, a moment when He will return in glory.
Philippians 1:29 (NIV):
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him but also to suffer for Him.”
Romans 6:5-6 (NIV):
“For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we will certainly also be united with Him in a resurrection like His. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.”
Strengthening Our Union with Christ and One Another:
In 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, Paul reveals the profound fellowship that occurs when believers partake in the Lord’s Table:
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (NIV)
16 “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.”
Through partaking in the Eucharist, Christians experience spiritual union with Christ and with one another. The shared bread and cup symbolize our collective identity as the Body of Christ. This unity transcends earthly divisions, as all believers, regardless of background or status, are united in Christ.
In John 6:53-56, we see that partaking in the Lord’s Table gives believers spiritual life. It is not a mere symbolic act but one that imparts real spiritual nourishment and sustenance.
Gaining a Deeper Understanding of God’s Word:
Luke 24:30-32 (NIV) recounts the moment when two disciples, on the road to Emmaus, recognized Jesus after He broke bread with them:
Luke 24:30-32 (NIV)
30 “When He was at the table with them, He took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.
31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, and He disappeared from their sight.
32 They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'”
In this passage, the breaking of bread is linked to a deeper spiritual understanding of God’s Word. The act of participating in the Lord’s Table illuminates the Scriptures, opening the hearts of believers to greater insight into the mysteries of God’s kingdom.
PREPARING FOR THE LORD’S TABLE:
To prepare the elements, use unleavened bread, as yeast symbolizes sin in biblical imagery (see 1 Corinthians 5:6-8). The bread should be made from whole wheat flour, and the wine should be fermented grape wine (not grape juice) as this best represents the blood of Christ.
When preparing, follow these steps:
Take a handful of flour, add oil (preferably olive oil), a pinch of salt, and water to form dough. Knead the dough into small pieces and bake them lightly on a stove or in an oven.
The wine should be wine made from grapes, symbolizing the blood of Christ. Avoid using fruit juice, as the wine used by Jesus and His disciples contained real fermented wine (see Matthew 26:29).
After preparation, gather together with fellow believers to partake in the body and blood of Christ as a communal act of worship and remembrance.
FOOT WASHING:
In addition to the Lord’s Table, Jesus also instituted the practice of washing one another’s feet. This act is a profound expression of humility, love, and servanthood.
John 13:3-17 (NIV)
3 “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God;
4 so He got up from the meal, took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist.
5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him.
6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to Him, ‘Lord, are You going to wash my feet?’
7 Jesus replied, ‘You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.’
8 ‘No,’ said Peter, ‘You shall never wash my feet.’
Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.’
9 Then, ‘Lord, not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!’
10 Jesus answered, ‘Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.’
11 For He knew who was going to betray Him, and that is why He said not everyone was clean.
12 When He had finished washing their feet, He put on His clothes and returned to His place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ He asked them.
13 ‘You call me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so, for that is what I am.
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.
15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
THE THEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF FOOT WASHING:
Foot washing, a humble and loving act, illustrates Christ’s teaching on servanthood. Jesus, the Lord and Teacher, humbled Himself to serve His disciples, and He commands us to do the same for one another.
In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul describes the ultimate example of humility set by Jesus:
Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)
5 “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage;
7 rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!”
Foot washing, therefore, is not only a practical service but a spiritual discipline that encourages humility
FASHION! A SHAME FOR DAUGHTERS OF GOD.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever—He has not changed, and His Word remains unchanging. (Hebrews 13:8). As the Scriptures clearly state, a Christian woman is called to dress modestly and with self-control (1 Timothy 2:9). This Word is still just as relevant today for God’s daughters as it was when it was first written.
In today’s world, we see many people who are mentally unstable walking the streets. Yet, it is rare to see a mad woman walking around completely naked. While it is common to see mad men exposed, you will almost always find mad women covering themselves with whatever rags or cloth they can find. Why is this the case? The answer is simple: the nakedness of a woman is considered more valuable than that of a man, and it is expected to be protected and covered. In Genesis 3:7, when Adam and Eve first realized they were naked, they covered themselves because they were ashamed of their exposure. Nakedness was a sign of sin, and since then, it has been something that requires covering to maintain dignity and honor.
However, today, it’s the woman with a sound mind—whose nakedness is of great value, and who should be covered—who leads the charge in walking around exposed. Proverbs 31:30 states, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” It’s heartbreaking that women, who are called to reflect the beauty of God’s design, have become the ones most often leading the world in immodesty. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and therefore, we should honor God with our bodies, not display them to the world in ways that lead to lustful temptation and sin.
But notice this: men, whose nakedness is considered less valuable in the eyes of the world, are often seen properly clothed, with their necks covered by shirts and ties, their backs and thighs hidden, and their legs protected by shoes and socks. This is the same man whose nakedness holds less value, yet he is expected to keep modest. It’s interesting to note that, in the Bible, 1 Timothy 2:8-10 teaches us that men too should not draw attention to themselves with their appearance, but rather “lift holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing,” and women, likewise, are called to adorn themselves in “respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control.” The same principle applies to men: clothing should reflect our respect for God and His design, not for self-exaltation.
Yet today, many women feel comfortable parading around in public with exposed backs, cleavage, and thighs, and shockingly, this has even become normalized in some Christian worship services. This practice reveals the underlying spiritual problem—one that Ephesians 6:12 clearly addresses: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” The spirit of worldliness, sensuality, and rebellion is at work here, and it’s a spirit that has enticed many into immodesty, often without them realizing it.
The question we must ask ourselves is: What spirit is working inside of us? Galatians 5:16 instructs us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” So why does Jesus warn against such behavior for some women and not others? Why do some believe they are safe in these actions? The answer is found in Romans 8:9, where it says, “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.” If the Spirit of God truly lives within us, He will convict us of sin and guide us into righteousness (John 16:8). Therefore, if a person is truly born again, they will experience a transformation in how they view their body and dress.
1 Peter 3:3-4 further clarifies: “Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.” This is the kind of beauty God desires in His daughters, not the fleeting, external allure that leads to pride and immodesty.
Matthew 5:28 reminds us that “everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” When a woman dresses immodestly, she becomes a stumbling block to those around her, leading others into sin. This is why modesty is not just about personal preference or cultural tradition; it’s about being responsible stewards of our bodies and not causing others to sin.
Finally, we must acknowledge the truth of Revelation 21:8, which warns that “the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Women who continue to live in rebellion to God’s Word, ignoring His command for modesty, will have their place in this lake of fire unless they repent and turn to Christ.
Know this, for certain: all who persist in such practices will find their place in eternal separation from God in the lake of fire. This is what the Lord says… (Romans 1:18-32).
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WHY DID JESUS CHRIST COME INTO THE WORLD?
The Bible opens in Genesis 1:1 with the foundational statement, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Yet, it doesn’t provide an in-depth explanation of how God created the heavens and earth — including the sun, moon, stars, animals, and humanity. However, a deeper understanding emerges when we explore the rest of Scripture, particularly Hebrews 11:3, which says:
“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible” (NIV).
Here, we learn that everything that exists was created through God’s spoken Word. This verse highlights that the visible world was made by the invisible will and intention of God, and not out of pre-existing materials.
But, what is this “Word” that created the world?
In John 1:1-3, we find the answer:
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.
3 Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. (NIV)
According to this passage, the “Word” (Greek: Logos) is both with God and was God. The Logos is more than just a message; it represents the very divine thought or will of God. In Greek philosophy, the Logos was understood as a principle of order and knowledge, but in Christian theology, it is revealed as Jesus Christ — the eternal and divine Son of God who became incarnate.
Theologically, the Logos is not just an abstract concept but a living, active force through whom God created all things. This introduces us to the mystery of Creation: the world was created by God’s will, mediated through the Logos (Jesus). Colossians 1:16 confirms this:
“For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him.”
This passage reveals that Christ was not only the instrument through which creation occurred but also the ultimate purpose of creation. Everything exists for His glory.
The Word Became Flesh
So, if Jesus (the Word) was with God from the beginning and was indeed God, why did He need to come to earth in human form? The answer is tied to God’s plan of redemption.
In John 1:14, we read:
“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (NIV)
This is the doctrine of the Incarnation, the teaching that Jesus, while fully divine, took on human nature to live among us. This is critical because only a perfect, sinless human could be the suitable sacrifice to atone for humanity’s sin.
Theologians have called this the hypostatic union — the union of the divine and human natures in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus is both fully God and fully man, without mixture or confusion of natures.
Jesus’ Mission: Reconciliation and Redemption
The main reason Jesus came was to restore humanity’s broken relationship with God. In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, Paul writes:
“All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”
Before the fall, man lived in perfect fellowship with God, enjoying communion and dominion over creation. But sin (disobedience to God’s will) shattered that relationship. As a result, humanity was separated from God, and death entered the world. God’s justice required that sin be punished, yet His love longed to restore humanity.
To reconcile the world to Himself, God sent His Son, Jesus, to bear the punishment for sin on our behalf. In Romans 5:10, Paul further explains this:
“For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!” (NIV)
This passage highlights two essential aspects of the Gospel: Jesus’ death brought about reconciliation between God and humanity, and His life — His resurrection — secures the believer’s eternal salvation.
Jesus accomplished this reconciliation through His atoning sacrifice. The blood He shed on the cross paid the penalty for our sin, fulfilling the requirements of God’s law. As Hebrews 9:22 says:
“Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.”
Jesus as the Revealer of God’s Will
Jesus came to reveal God’s will and make salvation available to all who believe in Him. In John 14:6, Jesus said:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.“
Here, Jesus claims exclusive authority as the only mediator between God and humanity. Through Him alone can mankind find forgiveness and reconciliation with God. This verse emphasizes that Jesus is the only path to salvation — not through good deeds, rituals, or other religions, but solely through faith in Him.
Jesus reveals God’s nature in a way that no one else could. As John 14:9 states:
“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
In His life and ministry, Jesus demonstrated God’s love, holiness, mercy, and justice. Through His miracles, teachings, and ultimately, His death and resurrection, Jesus made the invisible God visible.
Jesus’ Death and Resurrection: The Ultimate Fulfillment
The ultimate purpose of Jesus’ coming was His death and resurrection, which fulfilled God’s plan of redemption. As 1 Peter 3:18 says:
“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.”
Jesus, the righteous One, took the place of the unrighteous — us — to bring us back to God. Through His death, He bore our sins, and through His resurrection, He secured our victory over sin and death.
In Romans 6:4, we read:
“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
By identifying with Jesus’ death and resurrection through faith, believers receive new life and are empowered to live according to God’s will.
Jesus as the Final Revelation of God
Jesus didn’t just come to give teachings or laws. He came to reveal the fullness of God’s revelation. As Colossians 2:9 declares:
“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.”
In Jesus, we see the fullness of God’s nature and character. All that was hidden in the Old Testament — God’s justice, mercy, holiness, and love — is fully revealed in the person of Jesus Christ.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
While Jesus came to accomplish the work of salvation, He did not leave us alone. After His ascension, He promised to send the Holy Spirit, the Comforter and Teacher, to dwell within believers and guide them in all truth. In John 14:26, Jesus said:
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live the life that Jesus modeled and to fulfill the Great Commission by spreading the Gospel to all nations.
Conclusion
The reason Jesus Christ came into the world is deeply rooted in the eternal plan of God: to reconcile humanity to Himself through His death and resurrection. Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14) who became the perfect sacrifice for our sins. He revealed God’s will, restored the fellowship lost in Eden, and opened the way for all people to come to God through Him.
As John 3:16 famously states:
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This is the heart of the Gospel: Jesus came to save us, not just from our sins, but to bring us into a restored relationship with our Creator, so that we can worship Him in spirit and truth.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Do You Recognize False Prophets?
Where Are False Prophets?
Matthew 7:15-23 (NKJV)
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.”
16 “You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?”
17 “Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.”
18 “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.”
19 “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
20 “Therefore, by their fruits you will know them.”
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.”
22 “Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?'”
23 “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'”
Some people may say, “Don’t preach these kinds of messages, just teach people to repent and become Christians. That’s enough, isn’t it?!” But the real question is, once someone accepts Christ, is that the end of their spiritual journey? The answer is no—becoming a Christian is only the beginning of the journey. You need to grow spiritually, and growth requires feeding on the right spiritual nourishment. The Bible teaches that there are many teachings that build up believers, but there are also false teachings that tear down and destroy faith. The eternal well-being of your soul depends on your ability to discern which teachings you should consume. This is why it is essential to identify the difference between true and false prophets.
We live in perilous times—times unlike any before. The age in which we now live is marked by an incredible mix of true prophets and false prophets, all working with the goal of either gathering souls for heaven or deceiving them to hell. We must carefully examine which spiritual “fruit” we are being harvested for, lest we unknowingly fall prey to spiritual deception.
THE DECEPTION OF THE MODERN CHURCH:
The challenge many Christians face today is the confusion caused by false prophets who live in blatant sin yet continue to perform signs and wonders. These false teachers may live in immorality, practice drunkenness, indulge in worldliness, and even slander others—but still, they might raise the dead, heal the sick, prophesy accurately, and perform mighty miracles.
This confuses many believers, especially new or immature ones. “How can someone living in sin still have God’s power working through them?” they ask. “How can they heal the sick, raise the dead, and prophesy accurately if they are not from God?”
Here’s the truth: Not every miracle is a sign of divine approval. Satan can perform false signs and wonders (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12), and sometimes, even true prophets of God may misuse the power given to them. But miracles alone do not define a true servant of God. God may use anyone—even sinful people—to accomplish His purposes (cf. Numbers 22:21-31, when God used Balaam, a sorcerer, to bless Israel).
The key to discerning the truth is not miracles, but the alignment of a prophet’s message with the Word of God. A true prophet will speak in accordance with God’s will, while false prophets often lead people astray with teachings that contradict Scripture.
Theological Explanation of Deuteronomy 13:1-5
Let’s dive deeper into Deuteronomy 13:1-5 (NKJV), which provides a crucial warning:
1 “If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder,
2 and the sign or the wonder comes true, of which he spoke to you, saying, ‘Let us go after other gods’—which you have not known—and let us serve them,”
3 “you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the Lord your God is testing you to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”
4 “You shall walk after the Lord your God, fear Him, keep His commandments, obey His voice, serve Him, and hold fast to Him.”
5 “That prophet or dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has spoken in order to turn you away from the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of bondage, to entice you from the way in which the Lord your God commanded you to walk. So you shall put away the evil from your midst.”
The Bible makes it clear that the presence of signs and wonders is not enough to confirm the authenticity of a prophet. If the message they preach leads people to turn from God’s commands, it is a false message. This is an important principle in the Bible: God will not contradict His Word. Even if a prophet performs genuine miracles, if their message contradicts God’s Word (e.g., teaching that sin is permissible or that salvation can be earned through works or worldly success), their message is not of God.
In our modern context, this is crucial because we are living in a time where signs and wonders are used to validate ministries and leaders, even if their teachings deviate from Biblical doctrine. The Bible provides us with clear criteria to measure these things, and the primary criterion is the alignment of the message with Scripture.
THE TEST OF THE TRUE PROPHET:
In Matthew 16:24-26 (NKJV), Jesus sets the standard for what it means to follow Him:
Matthew 16:24-26
“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?'”
True discipleship is marked by self-denial and cross-bearing. Any gospel that promises wealth, comfort, or worldly success without requiring repentance or the pursuit of holiness is not the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself defined the cost of following Him—self-denial, cross-bearing, and loss of earthly gain.
The Importance of Holiness:
In Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV), we are warned:
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”
Holiness is not optional for the believer. It is essential for salvation. The gospel is not about material wealth or temporal success but about salvation from sin and the transformation of the believer into the image of Christ. A false gospel that ignores this essential truth will always focus on superficial aspects like prosperity or personal success, rather than eternal righteousness.
Discerning the True Prophet:
Matthew 7:16 (NKJV) teaches us that we will recognize false prophets by their fruits:
“You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?”
The fruit of a prophet is their doctrine and their lifestyle, which must align with the teachings of Jesus Christ. If a prophet’s message does not align with the full counsel of God’s Word, then we must recognize that they are a false prophet.
How to Protect Yourself from False Prophets:
The Bible repeatedly warns us to test all things and hold fast to what is good (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:21, 1 John 4:1). As believers, we must be grounded in the Scriptures so that we can test every spirit. Jesus has already warned us that there will be many false prophets in the last days (cf. Matthew 24:11). And the Apostle Paul warned the early church to be wary of wolves in sheep’s clothing (cf. Acts 20:29-30).
In Conclusion:
We are living in a time of great spiritual deception. Many people today are being drawn into false teachings, and it’s crucial that we, as Christians, learn how to test the spirits. We need to be grounded in the Word of God, discerning the difference between true and false prophets, and understanding that miracles alone are not proof of divine approval. Only when a prophet’s message aligns with the whole counsel of Scripture can we confidently recognize them as a true servant of God.
So, ask yourself today: Are you being led into deeper holiness, repentance, and love for Christ? Or are you being drawn into a superficial gospel that makes you comfortable in your sin? The stakes are high, and the consequences of following a false prophet can be eternal.
2 Peter
BREAKING THE SEAL OF SATAN: A
Theological Reflection
Exodus 21:2-6 (NIV):
“If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything.
If he comes alone, he is to go free alone; but if he has a wife when he comes, she is to go with him.
If his master gives him a wife and she bears him sons or daughters, the wife and her children shall belong to the master, and the man shall go free alone.
But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children and do not want to go free,’
then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or the doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life.”
Theological Reflection: Freedom and Bondage
The passage from Exodus highlights a powerful principle of freedom and servitude. In ancient Israel, servants (or slaves) could serve for six years, but in the seventh year (a year of Jubilee), they were granted freedom. However, if a servant chose to remain with his master because of love or attachment to his family, he would submit to a permanent form of servitude, symbolized by his ear being pierced. This piercing was a physical mark, a sign of permanent commitment and choice to remain under authority.
This concept serves as a symbol of the human soul’s condition. Spiritually, every person is either a servant to sin or a servant of righteousness (Romans 6:16). The piercing of the ear in the Old Testament symbolizes the spiritual state of the soul who, after hearing God’s call to freedom, refuses to choose life in Christ. Instead, they remain enslaved to sin.
Theologically, the marking of the ear with a piercing reminds us that true freedom is not simply physical but spiritual freedom — the freedom from sin, death, and eternal separation from God.
Christ: The Announcer of True Freedom
Jesus Christ’s mission was to proclaim freedom from the spiritual slavery of sin, a theme clearly outlined in the New Testament. He came to set captives free from both the penalty and power of sin.
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV):
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Jesus invites all to leave the burden of sin and embrace the rest and peace that come with the freedom He offers. His yoke symbolizes submission to His lordship, but paradoxically, it is a yoke that brings relief. It’s important to note that Christian freedom is not a freedom to sin but a freedom to live righteously and in relationship with God.
The Gospel of Liberty: The Seal of Freedom
Christ’s purpose was to announce the year of Jubilee, a time of release and restoration. This concept is further revealed in His words from Luke 4:18-19:
Luke 4:18-19 (NIV):
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
The “year of the Lord’s favor” is directly linked to the year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10), where debts were forgiven, land was returned, and all forms of servitude ended. Jesus, the perfect fulfillment of the law, came to declare the ultimate freedom from the oppression of sin. In Him, the year of Jubilee is realized spiritually, offering a permanent release from the power of Satan.
The Seal of God: The Holy Spirit as a Mark of Freedom
In the New Covenant, those who are freed from the bondage of sin through faith in Jesus Christ receive the Holy Spirit as a seal. This is a mark of ownership, guarantee of salvation, and a promise of eternal freedom.
Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV):
“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”
This sealing by the Holy Spirit signifies God’s ownership over our lives and guarantees that we belong to Him. The Holy Spirit is not just a guide but a seal — a spiritual guarantee that the work of salvation has been completed and that we are now free to live in the righteousness of Christ.
The seal of the Spirit also serves as a protection against sin and the schemes of Satan, as the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live according to God’s will. Thus, receiving the Holy Spirit is synonymous with receiving freedom from sin (Romans 8:2).
The Seal of Satan: A Mark of Rejection
Those who hear the gospel and willfully reject it, turning back to sin, willingly place themselves under the authority of Satan. The mark of Satan is not a physical mark like the piercing of an ear, but a spiritual mark on the heart — a heart that hardens to the gospel and becomes incapable of repentance.
Romans 1:21-32 (NIV) describes the progression of those who reject God’s truth, detailing how their hearts become hardened as a result:
Romans 1:24-25 (NIV):
“Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”
As people continue to reject God, they become increasingly ensnared by sin and unrighteousness. The seal of Satan hardens their hearts, making them indifferent to God’s calling and resistant to change. This is a dangerous position, for once a person reaches this point, repentance becomes impossible. The Bible speaks of those who have “seared their consciences” (1 Timothy 4:2), making them unable to hear God’s voice anymore.
The Danger of Rejecting Freedom
In rejecting the freedom offered by Christ, individuals choose to remain under the oppressive rule of sin and Satan. Hebrews 6:4-6 (NIV) warns about the irreversible nature of rejecting Christ after having known the truth:
Hebrews 6:4-6 (NIV):
“It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance, because, to their loss, they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.“
This warning shows the seriousness of rejecting the offer of freedom through Christ. Those who once knew the truth and then turned away to continue in sin have hardened their hearts, and it becomes impossible for them to return to repentance. This is a stark reminder that eternal freedom is a gift that must not be neglected.
Call to Repentance: The Time is Now
The freedom Christ offers is available to all who will repent and turn to Him. The call to repentance is urgent, and we must not delay in responding to God’s voice.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV):
“For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
If you have heard God’s voice calling you to freedom, do not harden your heart. The time to repent and accept His salvation is now. If you ignore this call, you risk receiving the seal of Satan, which will permanently seal you in spiritual death and separation from God.
Conclusion: Choose the Seal of God, Not the Seal of Satan
Today, you are faced with a choice: the seal of God or the seal of Satan. Will you choose to accept the freedom offered through the blood of Jesus Christ and be marked by the Holy Spirit? Or will you continue in the rejection of God’s grace and remain under the influence of sin?
Revelation 22:11-12 (NIV):
“Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right, and let the holy person continue to be holy. ‘Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.'”
This is the moment of decision. Choose freedom in Christ, for the time of salvation is now. Repent, and receive the seal of God, and experience the eternal freedom that comes with being His.
THE GREAT OUTPOURING IS COMING!!
Joel 2:28-32 (NKJV)
“And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; 29 and also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. 30 And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. 32 And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be deliverance, as the Lord has said, among the remnant whom the Lord calls.”
A GREAT OUTPOURING IS COMING UPON THE EARTH
The prophecy in Joel 2:28-32 speaks of an extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will occur in the “last days.” This momentous event began its first fulfillment at Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2:17-21, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples in Jerusalem. However, this event was only the “Former Rain,” a foretaste of a more abundant and powerful outpouring that is still to come.
In this passage, Joel foretells a divine outpouring that transcends age, gender, and social status: “I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh…” (Joel 2:28). This is a universal promise, emphasizing the inclusivity of God’s grace. The prophet’s words were radical for their time, as they declared that the Holy Spirit would not just rest upon the priests or the prophets, but upon all believers. The fulfillment of this prophecy in Acts 2 was just the beginning, but it will find its ultimate fulfillment in the final days before Christ’s return.
THE FORMER AND LATTER RAIN
The biblical concept of the “Former Rain” and “Latter Rain” draws from agricultural imagery. In the ancient Near East, the “Former Rain” was the rain that fell in the fall, preparing the ground for planting, while the “Latter Rain” came in the spring, preparing the crops for harvest. These rains were essential for a bountiful harvest, and God uses this imagery to speak of spiritual seasons of revival.
Joel 2:23 (NKJV)
“Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God; for He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to come down for you—the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.”
The “Former Rain” occurred at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit first descended upon the Church (Acts 2). However, the prophecy also speaks of the “Latter Rain,” which began to manifest in a significant way in the early 20th century, most notably during the Azusa Street Revival in 1906. This was a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit that led to the widespread Pentecostal movement, bringing signs and wonders, speaking in tongues, and healing ministries to the forefront.
The “Latter Rain” is not only a past event but continues to manifest in the Church today. We are living in the season of the “Latter Rain,” which will culminate in the greatest revival the world has ever seen before Christ’s return. This will be a time of extraordinary signs, wonders, and miracles—an outpouring of God’s Spirit unlike anything in history.
THE FINAL GREAT OUTPOURING
Joel’s prophecy points toward a great and awesome day of the Lord (Joel 2:31), a time when the earth will experience supernatural upheaval, including cosmic signs like the sun turning to darkness and the moon to blood. These events, though yet to occur in full, point to the final days leading to Christ’s return.
The apostle Peter, in Acts 2:19-20, referenced these signs as part of the larger outpouring of the Spirit that began at Pentecost, but he also indicated that these signs are part of a future fulfillment. Jesus Himself spoke about these cosmic disturbances in Matthew 24:29 (NKJV), just before His return:
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”
These signs will be a precursor to the final harvest of souls—a massive revival that will take place just before the Day of Judgment. The Church will be empowered to bring in a great multitude, but it will also be a time of shaking for the world, as God’s judgment will be poured out upon the earth.
THE SEAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
One of the theological implications of this great outpouring is the role of the Holy Spirit in sealing believers for the day of redemption. The Holy Spirit serves as both a guide and a guarantee of the inheritance that awaits those who are in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NKJV) makes this clear:
“In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.”
This “seal” of the Holy Spirit is what will mark God’s people as His own in the coming outpouring. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit will be empowered to proclaim the gospel, heal the sick, and prophesy in the final days, as the Spirit moves in an unprecedented way.
THE CALL TO REPENTANCE
In Joel’s prophecy, the promise of the outpouring of the Spirit is also linked to a call to repentance and a promise of deliverance. Joel 2:12-13 (NKJV) calls the people to return to God with sincere hearts, fasting, weeping, and mourning. This was a call to spiritual renewal, which would precede the outpouring of God’s blessings.
“Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning. So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.”
Before the final outpouring, the Church must be in a state of purity and readiness, as Matthew 25:1-13 (NKJV) illustrates through the parable of the ten virgins. Only those who are prepared, filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit, will be ready for the coming of the bridegroom (Christ). The foolish virgins, who neglected to prepare, were left behind when the bridegroom came. Similarly, the world will be divided between those who receive the outpouring of God’s Spirit and those who reject it.
THE RAPTURE AND THE FINAL HARVEST
The coming outpouring of the Holy Spirit will coincide with the final harvest of souls. The Church will experience a mighty revival as part of the preparation for the rapture of the saints. In Matthew 24:14 (NKJV), Jesus says:
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”
This final outpouring will be a supernatural event, spreading the gospel message to every corner of the earth, fulfilling Christ’s command and ushering in His return.
THE MYSTERIES OF THE KINGDOM REVEALED
God will also reveal mysteries during this great outpouring. The Seven Thunders in Revelation 10:4 (NKJV) represent secrets that will be disclosed in the final days before Christ’s return. These hidden mysteries will be unveiled through prophets, evangelists, and believers who are filled with the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus revealed deep truths to His disciples through parables and teachings, so will the Church in the last days be given divine insight into God’s ultimate plans for the world.
Revelation 10:7 (NKJV) says:
“But in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.”
This is the time when the final mysteries of God will be revealed, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit will be key in understanding and participating in the divine plan for the earth.
THE WARNING TO THE CHURCH LEADERS
In the final days, many church leaders will be tempted to reject the new moves of the Holy Spirit, just as the Pharisees rejected the works of Jesus. The same danger lies ahead for those who are not spiritually discerning. The outpouring of the Spirit may bring new manifestations of God’s power that may seem unfamiliar, but those who are led by the Spirit will recognize it as the work of God.
Matthew 24:24 (NKJV) warns of false prophets and false signs in the last days:
“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
Therefore, it is crucial for every believer, and especially for
The Seven Plagues and the Day of the Lord
The grace we experience today will one day come to an end. There are voices in the world suggesting that the God of the Old Testament no longer exists or that the signs and wonders He performed in the past are no longer relevant. But THE DAY OF THE LORD IS COMING, and no one should wish to experience it! It is a time of God’s unrelenting wrath, and it is not something anyone should desire, not even for their worst enemies. The wrath of God is currently being held back out of mercy for the world, providing time for repentance. But when the time comes, those who reject this grace will face the consequences of their refusal.
The Seven Plagues and the Day of the Lord
There are three main future events in God’s redemptive timeline that we must understand:
The Great Tribulation
The Day of the Lord
The Lake of Fire
In this section, we will explore the Day of the Lord, the specific period when God’s final judgment will be executed upon the world, and who will be affected by it.
1. The Great Tribulation
The Great Tribulation will be a time of unprecedented suffering, particularly for those who are faithful to Christ. This period will primarily affect Christians who refuse to accept the mark of the beast, as described in Revelation. They will be severely persecuted, and many will be martyred for their faith. The Great Tribulation will last for three and a half years, during which the world will continue in sin, following the Antichrist and rejoicing in his rule.
Matthew 24:21-22 (NIV): “For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.”
Despite the suffering, those who endure to the end will be saved. The Great Tribulation will culminate in the Day of the Lord, a time of God’s wrath that will follow the rapture and the final judgment of the world.
2. The Day of the Lord
The Day of the Lord is not a specific 24-hour day but a period of time in which God will pour out His judgment upon the world, punishing sin and rewarding righteousness. It is a day that will be filled with terror for those who are unrepentant and rebellious. The Bible describes this day as one of great darkness, destruction, and cosmic upheaval.
Isaiah 13:6-9 (NIV): “Wail, for the day of the Lord is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty. Because of this, all hands will go limp, every heart will melt with fear. Terror will seize them, pain and anguish will grip them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at each other, their faces aflame. See, the day of the Lord is coming—a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger—to make the land desolate and destroy the sinners within it.”
During this time, the world will face the wrath of God for their sin, especially those who have taken the mark of the beast, worshiped the Antichrist, and persecuted God’s people.
Joel 2:31 (NIV): “The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.”
3. The Duration of the Day of the Lord
The Day of the Lord will last for 75 days, based on the prophecy found in Daniel 12:11-12. This is calculated by the period of 1,260 days (the Great Tribulation) and an additional 1,335 days, making the difference 75 days. This period will be marked by various catastrophic events, including the judgment poured out from the seven trumpets and the seven bowls.
Daniel 12:11-12 (NIV): “From the time that the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination that causes desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days.”
The Seven Trumpets and Plagues
Before the Day of the Lord begins, seven trumpets will sound, each heralding a specific judgment on the earth. These judgments will be part of God’s warning to humanity. While some will heed the warning, many will still refuse to repent.
Revelation 8:6-7 (NIV): “Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared to sound them. The first angel sounded his trumpet, and there came hail and fire mixed with blood, and it was hurled down on the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.”
These trumpet judgments will be devastating. As each trumpet is sounded, a third of the earth’s resources—trees, rivers, seas, and skies—will be destroyed.
The Seven Plagues of Revelation
In Revelation 16, we see the seven bowls of God’s wrath, which will be poured out on the world during the Day of the Lord. These bowls will contain the final outpouring of God’s judgment and will affect those who have chosen to follow the beast.
First Plague – Sores on those with the mark of the beast:
Revelation 16:2 (NIV): “The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the land, and ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image.”
This plague will bring agonizing sores to those who worship the beast, marking the beginning of God’s judgment on the wicked.
Second Plague – The sea turning to blood:
Revelation 16:3 (NIV): “The second angel poured out his bowl on the sea, and it turned into blood like that of a dead person, and every living thing in the sea died.”
The seas, once teeming with life, will become lifeless, bringing about ecological and economic collapse.
Third Plague – Rivers turning to blood:
Revelation 16:4-7 (NIV): “The third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood… And I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: ‘You are just in these judgments, O Holy One, you who are and who were; for they have shed the blood of your holy people and your prophets, and you have given them blood to drink as they deserve.’”
This plague is a direct judgment upon those who have spilled the blood of the martyrs, turning the earth’s fresh water sources into blood.
Fourth Plague – Scorching heat from the sun:
Revelation 16:8-9 (NIV): “The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.”
This intense heat will torment the unrepentant, yet they will continue to curse God rather than repent.
Fifth Plague – Darkness and pain in the kingdom of the beast:
Revelation 16:10-11 (NIV): “The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in agony and cursed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, but they refused to repent of what they had done.”
The Antichrist’s kingdom will be plunged into utter darkness, and people will be in severe torment.
Sixth Plague – The Euphrates River dries up and preparations for Armageddon:
Revelation 16:12-16 (NIV): “The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from the East.”
The drying up of the Euphrates will facilitate the gathering of armies for the final battle at Armageddon.
Seventh Plague – A devastating earthquake and the collapse of cities:
Revelation 16:17-21 (NIV): “The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and out of the temple came a loud voice from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ Then there came flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder and a severe earthquake… The great city split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed.”
The final plague will shake the earth to its very foundations, as the judgment reaches its climax.
The Lake of Fire and Final Judgment
After the Day of the Lord, all the wicked will be judged and cast into the Lake of Fire, a place of eternal torment.
Revelation 20:11-15 (NIV): Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it
