The physical world often gives us clues about spiritual realities. For example, if we compare developed nations, like those in Europe, with less developed ones, like many in Africa, we can observe a clear difference. In developing countries, people spend most of their lives struggling to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. If someone is able to secure these, they are considered to have “made it” in life. This is why these nations are often labeled as “developing.”
In contrast, in developed nations, these basic needs are usually already taken care of, often from birth, because of the systems their governments have established. This freedom allows people to focus on other things, like research, technology, space exploration, and innovations that advance their societies. It is through these advancements that these nations are seen as powerful and progressive.
This pattern mirrors what we see in the spiritual realm. The Apostle Paul observed that many Christians were still spiritually immature, even after years of walking with God. They were still stuck on the foundational teachings of the faith. They hadn’t grown beyond basic principles. The spiritual life of these believers had plateaued; they kept hearing the same elementary teachings. But maturity requires progress. If they were struggling with the basics, how could they handle deeper truths?
Paul described these foundational teachings in Hebrews 6:1–2:
These are the basics that many Christians hear constantly in churches, Bible studies, and online. Yet, if we remain focused on just these and never grow, are we not still spiritual infants? Aren’t we still spiritually impoverished?
Theologians often refer to these teachings as “elementary doctrines,” the initial teachings that must be mastered before one can progress into deeper spiritual truths. Hebrews 5:11–14 highlights the difference between spiritual milk and solid food. Spiritual milk represents the fundamental teachings (like repentance and baptism), while solid food refers to the deeper, more mature understanding of God’s Word. Paul was frustrated that his audience could not handle solid food meaning, they could not grasp deeper revelations of Christ because they were still clinging to the basics.
“Of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing.
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.
For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe.
But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
Hebrews 5:11–14
Paul’s appeal in Hebrews 6:1–2 is a call to move beyond these elementary principles:
“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation…”
Hebrews 6:1
The foundation is important, but it is not the end goal. The goal is to build the house, which means pressing on to spiritual maturity, to a more complete knowledge of Christ.
Paul even referred to Melchizedek a mysterious figure from the Old Testament to explain the depth of Jesus’ priesthood. Melchizedek had no recorded beginning or end, just as Christ, our eternal High Priest, has no end (Hebrews 7:1–3). These are deeper spiritual truths that Paul could not share with his audience because they were not yet ready for them.
There is so much more about Christ and God’s plan that we do not yet fully understand. As 1 Corinthians 2:9 says:
“But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.’”
1 Corinthians 2:9
The ultimate mystery will be revealed when the seventh angel sounds his trumpet, signaling the end of all things and the completion of God’s plan. Revelation 10:7 makes it clear that the fullness of God’s mystery will be revealed at that time:
“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.”
Revelation 10:7
Until that time, God is calling us to grow spiritually, to move beyond elementary teachings and pursue a deeper relationship with Him. As Ephesians 4:13 encourages:
“Till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ…”
Ephesians 4:13
Repentance and baptism are just the beginning. They are the foundation upon which we must build. But God desires that we grow, that we move toward spiritual maturity, learning the deeper truths of the faith. Solid food represents the deeper mysteries of God truths about Christ’s eternal priesthood, His ongoing revelation, and His ultimate return.
If we grow beyond the basics, God will lead us into greater spiritual maturity. The goal is not to remain on the foundation, but to build a life that reflects the fullness of Christ.
“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection…”
Hebrews 6:1
Let us press on toward spiritual maturity, so that we may know Him more deeply, reflect His character, and walk in the fullness of His calling.
Shalom.
The Power of Remembering God’s Faithfulness
One of the greatest sources of strength in the Christian life is remembering. Often, when we feel stuck, discouraged, or afraid, the way forward begins by looking back back to where God has brought us from and the victories He has given us along the way.
If you don’t take time to reflect on where God has brought you from, it becomes easy to fall into a life of complaints and hopelessness. Remembering isn’t just about recalling facts it’s an act of faith. It’s a spiritual discipline that keeps our hearts grounded in God’s character.
Lamentations 3:21–23
“This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
Just like the prophet Jeremiah, we find hope not in our circumstances, but in recalling God’s mercy and past faithfulness.
When you remember how God helped you before, your faith is strengthened to believe He will help you again. That’s why testimony is so powerful it’s faith with a memory.
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
The God who healed you last year, provided for you last month, or delivered you from danger before He hasn’t changed. His nature is consistent, and His power endures.
The Israelites, despite seeing God’s mighty works in Egypt plagues, the Red Sea parting, water from a rock quickly forgot His power. So when they faced new challenges, like the giants in Canaan, they panicked.
Numbers 13:33
“There we saw the giants… and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”
This fear wasn’t because their enemies were stronger it was because they forgot how powerful their God was.
Psalm 78:11–13
“They forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them… He divided the sea and caused them to pass through.”
When we forget what God has done, we start to rely on ourselves and that always leads to fear or failure.
In the Old Testament, clean animals were those that “chewed the cud” animals like cows that bring back what they ate, chew it again, and digest it fully. Spiritually, that’s what meditation is: bringing back what God has done, thinking deeply on it, and letting it strengthen your inner man.
Leviticus 11:3
“Among the animals, whatever divides the hoof, having cloven hooves and chewing the cud that you may eat.”
This is a picture of spiritual maturity. Christians are called to meditate on God’s past deeds, not just once, but repeatedly.
Psalm 77:11–12
“I will remember the works of the Lord; surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will also meditate on all Your work, and talk of Your deeds.”
Paul teaches that the mistakes of Israel were recorded not just as history, but as a warning to us.
1 Corinthians 10:11–12
“Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition… Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.”
We are told not to repeat their error of forgetfulness, complaining, or doubt.
1 Corinthians 10:9–10
“Nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.”
Whether it’s sickness, financial difficulty, danger, or fear don’t panic. Remember how God delivered you before. That memory isn’t just comforting; it’s a weapon of faith.
Psalm 103:2–4
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction…”
Even in battle, God reminded His people to remember how He defeated Pharaoh, and that He would do it again:
Deuteronomy 7:18–19
“You shall not be afraid of them, but you shall remember well what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt… so shall the Lord your God do to all the peoples of whom you are afraid.”
Just as the Jewish people in the Old Testament were confused about the coming of the Messiah resulting in various sects and interpretations many Christians today are also confused about how the Holy Spirit comes upon a person. This confusion has led to diverse teachings and denominations, each claiming to understand the Spirit’s work in their own way.
The Old Testament contains prophecies about the coming Messiah (Hebrew: Mashiach), yet these prophecies sometimes appear contradictory. For example:Isaiah 53:5–6 describes the Messiah’s suffering and death for humanity’s sins:
“But he was wounded for our transgressions… and with his stripes we are healed.”Isaiah 9:6–7 foretells the Messiah’s eternal kingship on David’s throne:
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end… upon the throne of David…”
This duality reflects the two comings of Christ: first in humility and suffering (His first advent), then in glory and eternal reign (His second advent). The New Testament clarifies this fulfillment (cf. Acts 2:31, Revelation 19:16).
John 12:33–35 captures this tension:
“This he said, signifying what death he should die… We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth forever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up?”
Similarly, confusion arises today about how the Holy Spirit works in a believer’s life. Scripture reveals the Spirit’s diverse but unified work:Spiritual Gifts (Charismata):The Spirit imparts gifts for the common good.
“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4Guide into Truth:The Spirit illuminates God’s Word and applies it to believers.
“He will guide you into all truth…” (John 16:13)Witness of Sonship:
“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Romans 8:16).Sanctification:The Spirit transforms believers to bear fruit reflecting Christlike holiness.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22–23)
Each of these aspects is biblical and true; none alone fully describes the Spirit’s work. Many struggle to see this progression, much like the Old Testament believers who awaited the Messiah’s coming without full understanding.
Jesus said:
“No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him” (John 6:44).
This “drawing” is the Spirit’s convicting work (cf. John 16:8) that awakens a person’s awareness of sin and need for repentance.
Not everyone experiences this drawing, as it is by God’s sovereign grace. If one resists the Spirit, there may come a point of no return (cf. Hebrews 6:4–6).
When a person repents and is baptized in Jesus’ name, the Spirit permanently indwells them, marking their spiritual rebirth:
“Born of water and of the Spirit” (John 3:5–6).
The Spirit’s indwelling signifies adoption into God’s family:
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God” (Romans 8:14).
1. Regeneration and Renewal:
The Spirit cleanses and renews the heart, enabling holy living.
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy, he saved us… by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:5).
2. Guidance into Truth:
The Spirit teaches and leads believers into understanding God’s Word.
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13).
3. Assurance of Sonship:
The Spirit confirms our identity as God’s children, producing peace and confidence.
“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Romans 8:16).
4. Comfort and Strength:
The Spirit sustains believers through trials, renewing strength.
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength…” (Isaiah 40:31).
5. Empowerment for Witnessing:
The Spirit fills believers with power to testify for Christ.
“Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses…” (Acts 1:8).
The fullness of the Spirit is progressive. Even Jesus was anointed at His baptism (cf. Luke 3:21–22). The apostles received the Spirit’s empowering at Pentecost (cf. Acts 2). Similarly, believers grow in fullness as they walk faithfully with the Spirit (cf. Ephesians 5:18).
Many mistakenly expect the fullness instantly at conversion, but the Spirit often works gradually teaching, preparing, confirming, then empowering.
Ask yourself:Is the Spirit producing holiness in me? (Romans 8:13)Is He leading me into all truth? (John 16:13)Does He assure me of my sonship? (Romans 8:16)Does He comfort and strengthen me? (Isaiah 40:31)Does He empower me to witness? (Acts 1:8)
If these are lacking, repent and seek renewed filling.
Without the Spirit, salvation is impossible:
“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9).
Repent, believe the gospel, and be baptized in Jesus’ name. Then the Spirit will come and begin His transforming work.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus.
1. The Centrality of Sacrifice in Christian Faith
Sacrifice is one of the foundational pillars of Christianity. It holds such significance because our salvation was made possible through the greatest sacrifice Jesus Christ offering Himself for our sins. Without His atoning death, we would all remain under condemnation, headed for eternal separation from God.
Hebrews 9:26
“But he has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself.”
This means that sacrifice, when rightly understood and practiced, reveals God’s love and our response to it. Jesus didn’t just offer a material gift; He gave His life. And as believers, we are called to follow His example by living sacrificially not just with our money, but with our whole lives.
1 John 3:16
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
It’s important to understand that a contribution is something you give to support a cause, but a sacrifice often costs you something personally. A sacrifice involves self-denial. It may stretch your finances, comfort, time, or personal preferences for the sake of others and for the glory of God.
True biblical sacrifice always reflects the heart of God and involves faith, obedience, and love.
While sacrifice is powerful, it has limitations. It does not override obedience to God’s Word. There are situations where a person may offer sacrifices but remain disobedient or rebellious, and in such cases, their sacrifice loses its value before God.
This was the case with King Saul in the Old Testament:
1 Samuel 15:22–23
“But Samuel replied:
‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord?
To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.
For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry.
Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.’”
King Saul disobeyed God’s clear command to destroy everything in Amalek. Instead, he spared the best animals, intending to offer them to God as sacrifices. He thought that sacrifice would compensate for disobedience. But God rejected his sacrifice and him.
God never accepts sacrifice as a substitute for obedience. No act of giving can cover willful rebellion. Grace empowers obedience, not excuses disobedience.
Some may think that by giving offerings or helping in church they can continue in sin without consequence. But Scripture teaches the opposite:
Revelation 21:8
“But 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.”
Galatians 5:19–21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.
I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
These verses make it clear that no amount of sacrifice can save a soul that refuses to repent and walk in obedience.
Jesus Himself taught about the priority of reconciliation over ritual sacrifice:
Matthew 5:23–24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,
leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
This shows that right relationships with others are essential for our relationship with God. Offering a sacrifice while harboring conflict, bitterness, or wrongdoing against others makes our offering unacceptable.
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Worship without reconciliation is hypocrisy. Sacrifices must come from a heart that is right with God and with others.
Even generous and noble acts like giving money, serving in church, or donating to charity cannot change God’s moral standards. God has declared what is sin, and unless we repent and forsake it, our sacrifices will be in vain.
Malachi 1:13–14
“When you bring injured, lame or diseased animals and offer them as sacrifices, should I accept them from your hands?” says the Lord.
“Cursed is the cheat who has an acceptable male in his flock and vows to give it, but then sacrifices a blemished animal to the Lord.”
God does not accept secondhand, half-hearted, or hypocritical offerings. He desires our hearts above all.
If you’ve never surrendered your life to Christ, the first and greatest offering you can give is your heart. Not money, not service but your life.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God this is your true and proper worship.”
If you have given your life to Christ but grown cold or compromised, return to Him wholeheartedly. Jesus warns:
Revelation 3:16
“So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
This is the time to be on fire for God. He’s calling His people to sincere repentance, true worship, and holy living.
Sacrifice, in and of itself, is not wrong. In fact, it’s commendable and often commanded. But it must be accompanied by obedience to God’s Word. Obedience is greater than sacrifice.
Micah 6:6–8
“With what shall I come before the Lord and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come with burnt offerings…?
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Be blessed!
– Living a Life of Love and Discernment in Christian Freedom –
1 Corinthians 10:23–24
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial.
“I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.
No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
Paul teaches that while believers are free in Christ (Galatians 5:1), our freedom must never harm others. Christian liberty is governed not by personal comfort, but by love—especially toward those who are weaker in faith or still seeking Christ.
In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul addresses believers who were concerned about whether they could eat meat sold in public markets, some of which may have been offered to idols. His answer is both practical and pastoral:
1 Corinthians 10:25–26
“Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.’”
Paul wasn’t giving a license to consume everything sold in a market (e.g., alcohol, idols, or harmful substances). Instead, he was specifically referring to food, and especially meat, which some feared was spiritually contaminated due to its association with idol worship.
If we read this passage too literally, we risk misunderstanding it. Not everything in a market is meant for consumption—some things are harmful, sinful, or spiritually misleading (like drugs, occult items, or alcohol abuse). That’s why Paul clarifies: we must use wisdom and love, not just personal freedom, when making decisions (Philippians 1:9–10).
When Paul said, “Eat anything sold in the meat market,” his concern was conscience and witness—not diet or culture.
Let’s say you travel to China to preach. Locals welcome you and serve traditional food with ingredients unfamiliar to you. You may not recognize certain herbs or meats. In that case, Paul says not to ask unnecessary questions. Just eat what is offered without making a big issue of it—unless you are explicitly told the food was sacrificed to idols (1 Corinthians 10:28).
Why? Because if you refuse their hospitality, they may feel disrespected. You might appear judgmental or culturally arrogant, even if that’s not your intention. Such reactions can harden hearts and make people resistant to the Gospel.
The core principle is: don’t let secondary issues like food or traditions become stumbling blocks to someone’s salvation.
Romans 14:20
“Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food.”
Likewise, when someone visits your home, and you serve them food, if they question every ingredient, it may offend you. That same offense can happen in reverse. This is why Paul tells believers to act in ways that build up others—even when they have every right to do something (1 Corinthians 10:23).
This teaching also applies to how we treat sinners or people with different beliefs. Suppose you’re sharing the Gospel with someone in prostitution. If you begin by criticizing their appearance or lifestyle, you’ll likely offend them and lose any chance of sharing Christ.
Instead, follow Jesus’ example. When He met the Samaritan woman (John 4:7–26), He didn’t start by exposing her sinful past. He began by speaking of living water and the kingdom of God. Only later did He gently reveal knowledge of her past—and even then, it was done with compassion.
John 3:17
“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
We must minister like Jesus—with truth and grace. Don’t prioritize pointing out sin before revealing hope. Let the Holy Spirit convict at the right time (John 16:8).
When witnessing to people of different faiths—like Muslims—it’s unwise to lead with confrontational statements such as, “Eating pork is okay!” or, “Jesus is God, not just a prophet!” These truths are foundational, but they require spiritual revelation and understanding.
1 Timothy 3:16
“Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh…”
Even Jesus’ disciples didn’t fully grasp who He was right away. Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Christ came by revelation from the Father (Matthew 16:16–17). How much more, then, should we be patient with outsiders?
Lead with the message of the cross—the reality of sin, the fall of man (Genesis 3), and the redemption found in Jesus. Let people first see Him as Savior. Over time, the Holy Spirit will reveal His full identity.
New believers are like spiritual infants (1 Corinthians 3:1–2). Just as children don’t learn everything at once, we shouldn’t expect people new to Christ to understand deep theology immediately. We must be patient and loving teachers.
Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 8:1
“Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.”
Our goal should not be to win debates or show how much Scripture we know, but to build others up and bring them to Christ.
This is the heart of Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians 10:24:
“No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.”
Our actions—how we eat, speak, serve, and even correct—should always reflect Christ’s love. We are called not just to be right, but to do what is right for the sake of others’ salvation.
If you have not yet given your life to Jesus, remember: salvation starts here and now.
John 3:18
“Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already…”
There is still time to repent and turn to Christ. Surrender your life to Him. Be baptized in His name for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38), and He will give you the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:9
“…And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”
Seek the Holy Spirit. He is the seal of God upon your life (Ephesians 1:13).
Walk in love, speak with wisdom, and always seek the good of others above your own.
God’s covenant with Israel is not cancelled, but paused
Some people believe that under the New Covenant, God no longer deals with specific nations or people groups. They often quote Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse indeed teaches that in terms of salvation and spiritual identity, all believers are equal before God. However, this does not mean God has abandoned His covenant promises to Israel as a nation. The Bible shows that while salvation is now available to all, God still honors His promises to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:7–8, Romans 11:1–2).
Romans 11:11says:
“Through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.”
God temporarily allowed Israel to be blinded so that salvation could come to the Gentile nations. Their rejection opened the door for the gospel to be preached worldwide. Without that divine interruption, the gospel would have remained a Jewish message.
This shows God’s sovereignty in salvation history. He used Israel’s disobedience to fulfill His larger plan of bringing salvation to all nations (Romans 11:32).
Though the message of salvation was given to all (Matthew 28:19–20), its impact has moved geographically over time:
This movement reflects Acts 1:8
“And you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Like a wave, the grace of God has swept across regions—and now it is preparing to return to its starting point: Israel.
In Jeremiah 33:23–26, God responds to those who claim He has rejected Israel:
“If My covenant is not with day and night… then I will cast away the descendants of Jacob…”
God compares His covenant with Israel to the certainty of day and night. Just as the sun continues to rise and set, His covenant with Israel remains unbroken. The restoration of Israel as a nation in 1948 is a direct fulfillment of this prophecy and many others (Ezekiel 37:21–22, Isaiah 11:11–12).
In Romans 11:17–24, Paul explains that Gentiles were grafted into the spiritual root of Israel, like wild branches grafted onto an olive tree:
“If you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted… into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?” (v. 24)
God warns us not to boast, because if He didn’t spare the natural branches, He won’t spare us if we fall into unbelief (v. 21). But He also gives hope that the Jews, once broken off, can and will be grafted back in when they turn back in faith (v. 23).
Paul continues:
“Blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved…”
(Romans 11:25–26)
This doesn’t mean every Jewish person in history will be saved, but that a future generation of Israel will experience a massive national awakening when Jesus returns.
This is confirmed in Zechariah 12:10
“I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced.”
The entire city will mourn and repent—recognizing Jesus, whom they once rejected, as their Lord and Messiah.
Once the full number of Gentiles has received the gospel, grace will return to Israel in full. That shift will mark the final season of redemption and judgment.
Jesus will use Israel as His instrument of judgment during the end times. Revelation 16:16 describes the Battle of Armageddon, which will take place in Israel, after the rapture of the Church.
Despite its small size, Israel remains central in world politics, military tension, and prophecy. This is not random—it is divine. Zechariah 12:3 even prophesies:
“I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples…”
Israel matters because God’s hand is on it, and His plan involves it until the end of the age.
The signs are clear. The window of grace is closing for the Gentile world. Soon, God will turn His full attention back to Israel. The rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17) and the tribulation will follow.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”
(Isaiah 55:6)
If you haven’t repented, do so today. If you’ve grown lukewarm, return to God with all your heart. Strengthen your walk with Him now—before the days of judgment begin.
God has not forgotten Israel. He has not replaced them. Rather, He has opened a door for all nations to receive salvation—but only for a time. When that time is up, He will fulfill every promise made to Israel, just as Scripture foretold. Be watchful. Be ready.
May the Lord bless you and guide you in these prophetic days.
Peace to you, child of God. Let us learn together about the justice of God.
It is a fundamental truth that Almighty God, Creator of all things, is a God of justice (Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just.”). There is no question about His righteousness. However, it is important to understand how His justice operates among His creation, especially humanity.
Satan and his fallen angels work to accuse and drag people away from God, while holy angels seek to protect and draw people closer to God (Job 1:6-12; Zechariah 3:1-2). Both sides focus on humanity, but with opposite goals.
God does not battle Satan personally.
God is sovereign and supreme above all creation (Isaiah 40:12-14). No created being can challenge Him or defeat Him. The spiritual battle is fought by the chief angel Michael and his holy angels, as Revelation 12:7-9 explains:
“Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.
The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”
God’s Role: Judge and Just Arbiter
God acts as the righteous judge (Psalm 7:11“God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.”), giving justice to those who deserve it. He neither shows favoritism nor injustice (Romans 2:11).
The Role of Angels
(Zechariah 3:1-2; Matthew 18:10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”).
(Revelation 12:10 “He who accuses them before our God day and night.”).
When Satan Accuses
If a person lives knowingly in sin (e.g., adultery, witchcraft), Satan brings a strong accusation to God, claiming legal rights over that person (John 8:44“He is a liar and the father of lies.”). Without repentance and faith, this accusation may be allowed.
God’s Justice is Impartial
God judges each person according to their deeds (Romans 2:6-8). No one is exempt, and justice is perfect and impartial.
Protection Under Jesus’ Blood
Believers who are washed by Jesus’ blood (1 John 1:7) and live a holy life have their sins covered and stand defended by angels, who bring good reports before God. This keeps Satan’s accusations from succeeding (Romans 8:33-34“Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.”).
Spiritual Vigilance Required
We must examine our lives continually, because Satan prowls like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Being “Under the Blood” Is More Than Words
Confessing “I am under the blood of Jesus” must be demonstrated by living a life consistent with that truth (James 2:17). Obedience and godly living activate the protection of Jesus’ blood.
Closing Doors to Satan
Satan only has access to us where doors are opened through sin or disobedience (Ephesians 4:27). These “doors” may include:
Opening such doors gives Satan legal grounds to accuse and afflict us (Luke 11:24-26).
Steps to Secure Salvation and Protection:
1. Believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (John 3:16).
2. Be baptized by full immersion in water, in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38).
3. Receive the Holy Spirit, God’s promised helper and seal (Ephesians 1:13-14).
When these steps are completed sincerely, Satan’s accusations fail because believers are covered and justified (Romans 8:1 “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”).
Urgency of Salvation
We live in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1), and the time to prepare is now before Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Will you be ready to meet Him?
May God bless you richly as you seek His justice and protection.
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” — James 1:22
The name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be glorified forever. We live in prophetic times. The signs of the end are not only evident in the world’s events but also in the hearts of believers. Jesus clearly warned in Matthew 24:12,
“Because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”
This is not only about human affection but also the diminishing love for God. Many believers who once walked closely with God are slowly drifting, losing their spiritual fire. The danger here is subtle—it begins unnoticed and ends in spiritual death.
Forgetting God doesn’t always mean open rebellion. It often begins with slow spiritual neglect:
A believer may start off well: praying fervently, seeking the Lord, living modestly, serving in church, evangelizing. But as the cares of this life grow, and the temptations of modern culture increase—entertainment, social media, peer pressure, secular ideologies—these things can slowly pull one away from intimacy with God.
Paul speaks to this in Galatians 5:7:
“You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?”
The book of Job 8:11–13 uses an illustration of water plants to describe the spiritual life:
“Can papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Can reeds flourish without water? While still growing and uncut, they wither more quickly than grass. Such is the destiny of all who forget God.”
Papyrus and reeds depend completely on water. Remove them from that environment, and they wither—even if they still appear green for a while. This is a striking metaphor. When we disconnect from God—our source—we may seem fine temporarily, but spiritual death follows.
Jesus echoed this in John 15:5-6:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit… If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers.”
The phrase doesn’t refer to atheists or unbelievers—it applies to those who once knew Him but have grown cold. You can’t forget someone you never knew. These are Christians who once walked in truth, but now:
2 Peter 2:20-21 warns:
“If after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled… it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness.”
Hebrews 2:1– “We must pay the most careful attention… so that we do not drift away.”.
“Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you.” — Psalm 50:22
God has provided practical and spiritual means to help us remain steadfast.
Not just reading, but deeply reflecting and applying Scripture.
Joshua 1:8: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth… then you will make your way prosperous.”
James 1:25: “The one who looks into the perfect law… and perseveres… will be blessed in what he does.”
Surround yourself with those who encourage your faith.
Hebrews 10:25: “Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.”
Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Prayer keeps us aligned with God’s heart. Worship draws us close to His presence.
1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.”
Ephesians 5:18-20: “Be filled with the Spirit… singing psalms and hymns… giving thanks to God.”
In a digital age, distractions are constant. We must intentionally redeem our time.
Ephesians 5:15-17: “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.”
These are the days spoken of in Scripture—times of great deception, lukewarmness, and spiritual distraction. Let us not fall asleep spiritually or take God for granted. If you’ve drifted, return today. God’s grace is still available. But don’t delay.
Revelation 2:4-5:
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”
Final encouragement:
Be vigilant. Be in the Word. Stay in fellowship. Keep praying. Don’t forget God—because He has not forgotten you.
May the Lord bless you and keep you faithful until the very end.
When you show compassion to someone in need—whether they’re hungry, poor, or broken-hearted—you’re doing more than just being kind. You are, in a real way, stepping into their suffering. For example, if someone has no food and you give them what little you have, you’re taking their hunger upon yourself. If someone is in danger of death and you willingly take their place, you’re carrying their death so they can live.
This is exactly what Jesus Christ did for humanity.
We were all guilty before God. Because of our sin, we were destined for death (Romans 6:23). But Jesus—who was without sin (Hebrews 4:15)—willingly took our guilt, our sorrow, our punishment, and bore it upon Himself so that we could be free.
Isaiah 53:4–5
“Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows… He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities…”
He became our substitute. To save us from dying, He had to die in our place. To deliver us from God’s judgment, He took the judgment Himself. This is the heart of the Gospel—the Doctrine of Substitutionary Atonement, where one innocent person bears the penalty for the guilty.
2 Corinthians 5:21
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
This act of love was purely by grace—not because we deserved it, but because He chose to show mercy.
2 Corinthians 8:9
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”
In divine justice, someone had to pay the penalty of sin. Either we would bear it ourselves eternally, or someone sinless had to carry it once and for all. That’s why Jesus had to suffer and die.
This connects with the Old Testament sacrificial system, where an innocent lamb was offered in place of the guilty (Leviticus 16). But those sacrifices were temporary. Jesus became the final Lamb, once for all.
John 1:29
“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”
Since Jesus carried our sin—and our sin deserves eternal punishment (Romans 6:23)—He should have remained under the grip of death. But because He Himself had no sin, He could not be held by death. He triumphed over sin, death, and hell.
Hebrews 9:28
“So Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”
This is called the Doctrine of Resurrection Victory. His resurrection proved that the sacrifice was accepted by God, and that death had no final power over Him—or over anyone who believes in Him.
Romans 4:25
“[Jesus] was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.”
Now imagine a man sentenced to life imprisonment, but someone else steps in, serves the sentence, and later you see that man walking free—and now he’s been made the Chief Judge of the nation. You would ask: What happened? Did he escape? No—he overcame the charges legally and was exalted.
That’s exactly what happened with Jesus. He bore our case, took our sentence, died, rose again, and was given all authority.
Matthew 28:18
“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.”
He is not just our Savior now—He is also our Judge.
Acts 10:42
“And He commanded us to preach to the people… that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.”
Even though Jesus died for all, not all will be saved. Why? Because not all are willing to receive salvation. God has given every person the freedom to choose—life or death.
Deuteronomy 30:15
“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.”
Jesus is the Light of the world, but many reject the Light because they love their sin. This is the Doctrine of Human Responsibility—we must respond in faith to the grace offered.
John 3:19–20
“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light… For everyone practicing evil hates the light.”
If you haven’t surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. The first step is repentance—genuine sorrow for sin and a decision to turn away from it. The next is baptism, as commanded in Scripture:
Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
This is the new birth (John 3:3–5), where your sins are washed away, and the Holy Spirit comes to live in you to help you walk in holiness.
When you do this, your sins are no longer counted against you. Jesus includes you among those He has redeemed. You are delivered from the judgment that is coming soon upon the whole earth.
Jesus became the sacrifice for your sin. He carried your burden so you could be free. He rose again so you could live forever. Now, He is calling you to respond.
Choose Light. Choose Life. Choose Jesus.
Romans 10:9
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
May the Lord bless you as you believe and walk in this truth.
In the Old Testament, every time the Israelites built an altar for God, they were instructed to place it on elevated ground. God specifically commanded this as part of His design for worship:
Exodus 20:24
“An altar of earth you shall make for Me, and you shall sacrifice on it your burnt offerings… In every place where I record My name I will come to you, and I will bless you.”
The word “altar” itself comes from a root meaning “a high place” or “to lift up.” Therefore, building it on high ground or raising it up was not just symbolic—it was prophetic. God was teaching His people that worship and sacrifice must ascend to Him—it must rise from a lower (earthly) place to a higher (heavenly) reality.
Later on, pagan nations imitated this concept by building their own altars and shrines on elevated places, but instead of worshipping the true God, they used them for idol worship and witchcraft. That’s why, during the period of the kings, God constantly rebuked Israel for failing to tear down these “high places”:
2 Kings 17:10–12
“They set up for themselves sacred pillars and wooden images on every high hill… and they burned incense… and served idols.”
Satan never creates anything original. He imitates and perverts what God establishes. When God commanded the Israelites to offer sacrifices for the atonement of sin, Satan introduced pagan sacrifices and counterfeit altars. The goal? To confuse, distract, and ultimately destroy.
In the Old Covenant, approaching God’s altar was not casual. Only priests could approach, and only under very specific conditions. They had to wear holy garments to cover their entire bodies.
Exodus 28:40–43
“…You shall make tunics for them… for glory and beauty… and you shall make for them linen trousers to cover their nakedness; they shall reach from the waist to the thighs… so that they do not incur iniquity and die.”
Because the altar was raised and had to be approached by steps, even the long linen robe was not sufficient to hide one’s lower body when climbing. So, God required priests to wear linen undergarments to avoid any exposure. If their nakedness was revealed, even unintentionally, they could die in God’s presence.
Exodus 20:26
“Nor shall you go up by steps to My altar, that your nakedness may not be exposed on it.”
This was a powerful statement: God demands reverence and purity, both inwardly and outwardly, when we come before Him.
Today, we no longer offer animal sacrifices or go to physical temples. Our altar is in heaven, and the perfect sacrifice—Jesus Christ—has already been made.
Hebrews 9:11–12
“But Christ came as High Priest… not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”
So when we pray, worship, or serve, we are spiritually approaching the heavenly altar. Just as the Old Testament priests had to be properly clothed, we too must come before God “covered” in the right garments—both spiritually and physically.
Outer garments represent how you present yourself to the world. How you dress and act in public says something about your reverence toward God.
1 Timothy 2:9–10
“In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation… which is proper for women professing godliness.”
If you, as a believer, wear revealing clothes, tight jeans, mini-skirts, or anything that draws sensual attention, especially in God’s house—you’re not only dishonoring God but also putting yourself in spiritual danger.
Likewise, men who walk in open sin—drunkenness, immorality, dishonesty—and still come before God without repentance are unclothed spiritually.
Even Peter, when fishing half-naked, covered himself out of reverence when he realized Jesus was watching:
John 21:7
“…When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.”
If Peter, a grown man, respected Jesus enough to cover his body, what does that say to us today—especially when entering His presence?
Just as important as your appearance is the state of your heart—your inner garments. You may appear holy on the outside, but what does God see on the inside?
Matthew 23:27–28
“Woe to you… For you are like whitewashed tombs… outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”
You may serve in church, sing in the choir, or preach, yet harbor bitterness, jealousy, lust, or unforgiveness. In God’s eyes, you are like a priest who appears well-dressed outwardly, but underneath, is exposed and naked.
You may secretly watch pornography, commit fornication, or live a double life—attending church while also engaging in worldly activities. That is spiritual nakedness, and it’s dangerous.
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”
We are living in the Laodicean age—the last of the seven churches in Revelation. This is a lukewarm generation. It thinks it’s rich, but in reality, it is poor, blind, and naked.
Revelation 3:17–18
“…you say, ‘I am rich…’ and do not know that you are… naked.
I counsel you to buy from Me… white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed.”
Jesus is giving us a loving warning. He’s offering white garments—spiritual purity and righteousness—to cover our shame.
To the Laodicean church, Jesus gives the greatest reward of all the churches:
Revelation 3:21
“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
Think of that! Sitting on the throne of Christ—ruling and reigning with Him. No earthly pleasure compares to this eternal reward.
If you are still living outside of Christ—or if you’re lukewarm—it’s time to turn back. Repent sincerely, and obey the gospel:
Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
The Lord Jesus is coming soon. He Himself said:
Revelation 22:12
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me…”
Don’t let the moral confusion and spiritual darkness of today’s world deceive you. These days were prophesied. But if you hold on, stay pure, and walk in both outer modesty and inner righteousness, your reward will be glorious.
Romans 8:18
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
May you be found dressed—inside and out—when Jesus returns.
Be blessed and remain faithful.