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ARE YOU A TRUE CHILD OF ABRAHAM?

Have you ever asked yourself: “Will I be among those who sit with Abraham in the Kingdom of God?” This is not just a hopeful thought; it’s a reality promised in Scripture. But who qualifies to sit at that table? It’s not about your background, title, or how long you’ve been in church. The key is faith—genuine, Abraham-like faith.

1. What Does It Mean to Be a Child of Abraham?

Being a child of Abraham means sharing in the faith that defined his relationship with God. God didn’t choose Abraham because he was perfect or strong—He chose him because Abraham believed (Genesis 15:6 NKJV):

“And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.”

This verse is foundational. It’s the first time in the Bible we see righteousness given not by works, but by faith. Paul later confirms in Galatians 3:7 (NKJV):

“Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham.”

2. Abraham’s Faith Went Beyond the Natural

Abraham didn’t just believe when things were easy. His faith endured the impossible. God promised him a son when he was nearly 100 years old, and he believed. When God tested him by asking him to sacrifice that very son, Isaac, Abraham didn’t doubt. Hebrews 11:17–19 (NKJV) tells us:

“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac… concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead.”

That is radical faith. Abraham trusted God beyond logic, beyond emotion, and beyond human reasoning. He knew that God’s promises could not fail, even if circumstances seemed to say otherwise.

3. Faith That Moves God: The Roman Centurion

In Matthew 8:5–13, Jesus encounters a Roman centurion—a Gentile, not a Jew—whose faith astonishes Him.

The centurion’s servant was sick, and Jesus offered to come heal him. But the centurion responded:

“Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8 NKJV)

He believed in the authority of Jesus’ word. He knew Jesus didn’t need to be physically present to heal. Jesus marveled and said:

“Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” (v. 10)

Then He added a remarkable prophecy:

“And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.
But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness.” (vv. 11–12)

4. God Looks at the Heart, Not Religious Status

This statement challenges our assumptions. Jesus was saying that many outsiders—people from unlikely places, people the religious world ignores—will enter the Kingdom, while some who thought they were guaranteed a place (the “sons of the kingdom”) will be left out.

Why? Because God looks at the heart of faith, not religious titles or rituals (1 Samuel 16:7).

Just like Abraham, the centurion accounted God as faithful and able. He didn’t need physical evidence or religious ceremony. He simply believed in God’s authority.

5. Other Examples of Radical Faith

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus responds differently when He sees extraordinary faith:

  • The woman with the issue of blood believed, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.” (Matthew 9:21 NKJV). She didn’t need attention or prayer—just faith in His power.

  • The Canaanite woman (Matthew 15:21–28) kept pressing Jesus for her daughter’s healing, even when she seemed ignored. Her persistent faith moved Jesus to heal.

  • Zacchaeus, the tax collector (Luke 19), climbed a tree just to see Jesus. His hunger to encounter Christ led Jesus to say, “Today salvation has come to this house.” (Luke 19:9)

All these people had one thing in common: they didn’t approach Jesus through normal channels. They pushed past obstacles, traditions, or expectations—and touched the heart of God.

6. Don’t Depend Solely on Religious Systems

Today, many people think they need to go through religious leaders or places to access God. They wait for prophets to visit them, or travel to other nations for healing or answers. But God is not far. He is near—even in your own heart and mouth (Romans 10:8 NKJV):

“The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” — that is, the word of faith which we preach.

You don’t need a middleman. Jesus Christ alone is the mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). You can approach God directly, just like Abraham, just like the centurion, and just like the woman with the issue of blood.

7. The Challenge: Account God as Able

Ask yourself: When you face trials or needs, do you run first to human help, or do you account God as able?

  • If you believe God can use others to bless you, then believe He can also use you.

  • If you trust Him to answer a preacher’s prayer, then trust He can also answer your own.

God desires faith that pleases Him, not just crowds that follow Him (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV):

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

Conclusion: Let’s Imitate Abraham’s Faith

In the end, it is not just about being near religious things. It’s about having a heart that truly believes.

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.”
—2 Corinthians 13:5 (NKJV)

Let us strive to reach that level of Abrahamic faith—the kind that doesn’t waver in uncertainty, the kind that moves mountains, and the kind that causes God to say,

“This one will sit with Abraham in My Kingdom.”

May the Lord bless you and increase your faith. Amen.

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The Story of Job’s Trials: The Role of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar

1. Introduction: Who Was Job?

Job is introduced in Job 1:1 as a man who was “blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil.” His righteousness was not only outward but deeply personal. Job lived with integrity, maintained pure worship, and even interceded for his children (Job 1:5), fearing that they might have sinned against God unknowingly.

Satan, whose name means “accuser,” appeared before God and accused Job of serving God only because he had been blessed (Job 1:9–11). In response, God permitted Satan to test Job’s faith—showing that Job’s loyalty was not dependent on circumstances, but rooted in genuine love and reverence for God.

2. The Three Great Trials of Job

A) The First Trial – Loss of Possessions and Family (Job 1:13–22)

Satan took away all of Job’s wealth—his oxen, sheep, camels, servants, and even his children. Job’s response was remarkable:

Job 1:21 (NIV)
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.
The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”

Despite overwhelming grief, Job did not sin or charge God with wrongdoing. (Job 1:22)

Theological Insight:
This reflects Job’s deep understanding of God’s sovereignty. His worship was not based on gifts, but on God’s nature. True faith acknowledges that everything we have is from God and belongs to Him (see Psalm 24:1).

B) The Second Trial – Physical Suffering (Job 2:1–10)

Satan, having failed to break Job’s spirit through external losses, attacked his health. Job was struck with painful sores from head to toe. He sat on ashes, scraping himself with broken pottery. Even his wife said:

Job 2:9 (NIV)
“Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!”

Job answered:

Job 2:10 (NIV)
“Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”

Theological Insight:
This response shows a mature understanding of divine providence. God is not only the God of blessings but also sovereign in allowing suffering for a purpose (see Romans 8:28, James 5:11). Job’s wife, overwhelmed by grief, represents the human tendency to measure God’s love by our comfort—a dangerous theological error.

C) The Third Trial – Spiritual Attack Through Friends (Job 3–37)

The final and most dangerous trial was spiritual and doctrinal. Satan now used Job’s own friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—to sow doubt and confusion through seemingly religious counsel. They accused Job of hidden sin, insisting that suffering is always the result of wrongdoing.

Let’s look at each of their arguments.

3. The Counsel of Job’s Friends

A) Eliphaz (Job 4–5; 15; 22)

Eliphaz was the first to speak. He claimed that Job’s suffering must be the result of sin:

Job 4:7–8 (NIV)
“Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed?
As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it.”

Eliphaz believed in a strict retribution theology—that good things happen to good people and bad things to sinners.

Theological Error:
While God is just (Deuteronomy 32:4), the book of Job shows that suffering is not always a punishment. Eliphaz’s view ignores the mystery of divine testing and spiritual growth through trials (see John 9:1–3; 1 Peter 1:6–7).

B) Bildad (Job 8; 18; 25)

Bildad’s argument was harsher. He accused Job’s children of dying because of their sins:

Job 8:4–6 (NIV)
“When your children sinned against him, he gave them over to the penalty of their sin.
But if you will seek God earnestly and plead with the Almighty,
if you are pure and upright, even now he will rouse himself on your behalf…”

Theological Error:
Bildad assumes a direct cause-and-effect between sin and tragedy. But Job had continually interceded for his children (Job 1:5). His theology failed to recognize the grace of God and the reality of righteous suffering (see Hebrews 11:35–38).

C) Zophar (Job 11; 20)

Zophar was the most blunt. He implied Job was getting less punishment than he deserved:

Job 11:6 (NIV)
“Know this: God has even forgotten some of your sin.”

Later, he mocked Job’s downfall:

Job 20:5–7 (NIV)
“…the mirth of the wicked is brief, the joy of the godless lasts but a moment.
Though the pride of the godless person reaches to the heavens…
they will perish forever, like their own dung.”

Theological Error:
Zophar lacked compassion and misapplied divine judgment. He made Job feel condemned instead of comforted, violating the spirit of true pastoral care (see Galatians 6:1–2, Romans 12:15).

4. The Real Danger: Misusing Scripture

These friends spoke some truth—but wrongly applied it. They used scriptural ideas (like sowing and reaping, God’s justice) to make Job feel guilty. Worse, they claimed divine dreams and revelations to support their accusations (Job 4:12–17).

2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV)
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved… who correctly handles the word of truth.”

They became Satan’s instruments, not by cursing God, but by using twisted theology to tempt Job into abandoning his faith.

5. Job’s True Strength: Inner Relationship with God

Unlike his friends, Job knew that faith is not about outward blessings but about the heart’s connection with God. He never claimed to be perfect, but he was confident in his innocence before God:

Job 13:15 (NIV)
“Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face.”

Job’s hope was not in prosperity or healing—it was in God’s righteousness and mercy.

6. The Message for Us Today

This story is a timeless warning. Satan still uses hardship to test believers. When that fails, he sends false voices—even from religious people—to make us question our standing with God.

Today’s “Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar” are often prosperity preachers or false prophets who say:

  • If you’re struggling, God must be against you.

  • If you’re sick or poor, your faith is weak.

  • If you’re not successful, you must be cursed.

But the Bible teaches:

Romans 8:35–37 (NIV)
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?…
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Faith is not measured by success but by perseverance and relationship with God, even in suffering.

7. Final Encouragement: Hold On Like Job

In the end, God rebuked Job’s friends for speaking falsely about Him (Job 42:7–9) and restored Job’s fortunes—doublewhat he had before (Job 42:10). Job’s reward was not just material; it was spiritual vindication.

Let us also stand firm, not shaken by outward losses or human opinions. Like Job, let our faith be rooted in knowing God, not in what we possess.

James 5:11 (NIV)
“You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

Conclusion

Remain faithful in every season—wealth or poverty, health or sickness. Don’t judge your spiritual standing by outward conditions. And don’t be misled by religious voices that lack the Spirit of truth.

Stand on the Word. Keep your heart close to God. And in due time, He will lift you up.

1 Peter 5:10 (NIV)
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

May the Lord bless and keep you always.

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THE BOOK OF JUDE: PART 3

 

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ forever and ever.

Welcome to today’s study of God’s Word as we continue with the final section of the book of Jude.

Jude 1:14–15
“Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: ‘Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His holy ones, to execute judgment on all, and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.’”

These verses remind us that final judgment is certain. Enoch, long before the flood, foresaw the return of Christ with His saints to judge the ungodly (cf. Matthew 16:27, 2 Thessalonians 1:7–9, Revelation 19:11–16).

Jude 1:16–21 warns about false believers and scoffers:
“These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage. But you, beloved, remember the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.’ It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”

Jude exhorts believers to remain steadfast in the faith through prayer, perseverance, and anticipation of Christ’s mercy.

The Three Types of False Teachers

Earlier, we learned about three categories of false workers that Satan has planted in God’s church—those compared to “wandering stars” destined for eternal darkness, “fruitless trees twice dead,” and “dangerous hidden reefs” (Jude 1:12–13). These are likened to “weeds among the wheat” (Matthew 13:24–30).

Jude 1:11 names them:
“Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam’s error and perished in Korah’s rebellion.”

  • Cain represents jealousy, hatred, and self-righteousness (1 John 3:12).

  • Balaam symbolizes greed and corrupt teaching for personal profit (2 Peter 2:15, Revelation 2:14).

  • Korah stands for rebellion against God’s appointed leadership (Numbers 16:1–35).

These influences still operate in churches today, deceiving many. False teachers are often difficult to detect because they mix truth with error (2 Corinthians 11:13–15).

Scoffers in the Last Days

Jude warns that in the last days there will be scoffers who mock God’s promises. The Apostle Peter confirms this:

2 Peter 3:3–4
“Scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, ‘Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.’”

Just as Korah and his followers mocked God’s plan during Israel’s wilderness journey, many professing Christians today deride the promise of Christ’s return, forgetting that God’s timing is perfect (2 Peter 3:8–9). His delay reflects His mercy, giving people time to repent.

But judgment will come suddenly:
2 Peter 3:10 – “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.”

A Call to Stand Firm

Jude urges believers to make their calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10). Many start their faith journey well—praying, fasting, showing compassion, walking humbly, and fearing God’s Word—but drift away after embracing false teachings. Spiritual fervor fades, and Christ becomes secondary in their lives. Such individuals must urgently return to “the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3).

Satan’s throne is at the heart of these deceptions (Revelation 2:13–14). Therefore, believers must cultivate a personal relationship with God, grounded in Scripture, and persevere in faith.

Jude 1:24–25 offers a prayer of assurance:
“Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”

Key Takeaways

  • Stay vigilant against false teachers and teachings.

  • Build your faith through prayer in the Holy Spirit.

  • Remain in God’s love as you wait for Christ’s return.

  • Encourage the doubting, rescue those in danger, and maintain holiness (Jude 1:22–23).

This is the hour to “fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). Christ is coming soon to judge the ungodly and reward the faithful (Revelation 22:12).

May the Lord keep us steadfast until that day. Amen.

 

 
 

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THE BOOK OF JUDE: PART 2

 

Welcome back to the continuation of our study in the Book of Jude. As we saw in Part 1, Jude, a servant of the Lord, warned God’s people to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3). These warnings were not given to everyone (both the righteous and the wicked), but specifically to the people of God—the called ones (Christians). Keep that in mind as we continue with the following verses:

Jude 1:7–13
“As Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries.
Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’
But these speak evil of whatever they do not know; and whatever they know naturally, like brute beasts, in these things they corrupt themselves.
Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit, and perished in the rebellion of Korah.
These are spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots;
raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.”

Jude describes these false teachers as rebellious and spiritually defiled—people who reject authority, follow the desires of the flesh, and blaspheme heavenly beings. He compares them to wandering stars, destined for the blackness of darkness forever. He identifies them with Cain, Balaam, and Korah, three figures whose paths reveal the nature of apostasy.

The Way of Cain

Cain was not part of the holy lineage. From the beginning, his actions reflected rebellion. While Abel, the true son of Adam, offered an acceptable sacrifice by faith (Genesis 4:4; Hebrews 11:4), Cain’s sacrifice was rejected, and in his jealousy, he murdered his brother (Genesis 4:5–8). His descendants carried on his legacy of violence and disobedience. Lamech, one of Cain’s descendants, boasted:

“If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.” (Genesis 4:23)

The lineage of Cain became known as the “sons of men,” while the descendants of Seth (Adam’s other son) were known as the “sons of God” (Genesis 4:25–26; 6:2). The “sons of God” fell into sin when they intermarried with the daughters of men, corrupting the godly line and provoking God to bring the flood (Genesis 6:1–7). This was not angels marrying humans, as some claim, because Jesus said angels do not marry (Matthew 22:30). The sin was the intermingling of the holy lineage with the ungodly, leading to widespread corruption.

Even today, Satan uses “the way of Cain” to lead believers astray. He promotes compromise through false religious leaders who twist Scripture, normalize sin, and entice Christians to adopt worldly practices—just as Solomon was led astray by foreign women (1 Kings 11:1–4). Teachings that say, “God only looks at the heart, not outward appearance,” are used to justify immodesty and sinful lifestyles. But as Peter warns, “Like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves in all your behavior” (1 Peter 1:15–16).

The Error of Balaam

Balaam was a prophet (Numbers 22–24), yet he loved the wages of unrighteousness (2 Peter 2:15). Though he initially obeyed God’s command not to curse Israel, his greed drove him to seek another way to bring Israel down. He advised Balak, king of Moab, to seduce Israel with Moabite women, leading them into idolatry and immorality. As a result, 24,000 Israelites died under God’s judgment (Numbers 25:1–9; Revelation 2:14).

Balaam represents false prophets who mix true prophetic gifts with corrupt motives. They may perform miracles and deliver accurate prophecies, but their hearts are not loyal to God. They lure God’s people into spiritual adultery—mixing the worship of the true God with idolatrous practices. Many modern teachers promise material blessings while leading believers away from holiness, making them friends with the world (James 4:4).

Jesus warned the church at Pergamum about such teachings:

“But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam… to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” (Revelation 2:14–16)

The Rebellion of Korah

Korah, a Levite, led a rebellion against Moses, claiming that all the people were holy and that Moses had no right to lead them (Numbers 16:1–3). He rejected God’s appointed authority and sought to establish his own leadership. As judgment, the earth opened and swallowed Korah and his followers alive (Numbers 16:31–33).

Korah symbolizes religious leaders who reject God’s authority and distort His Word for personal gain. They deny the way of the cross, replacing it with messages of comfort and material prosperity. Like Korah, they tell people, “You’re already holy—no need to repent or carry your cross.” Yet Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24)

A Call to Watchfulness

Jude’s warning echoes Peter’s:

2 Peter 2:1–3
“But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies… And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words…”

The church today faces the same dangers. False teachers are “clouds without water” and “trees without fruit,” offering no life or nourishment. They promise freedom but are themselves slaves of corruption (2 Peter 2:19). Believers must remain vigilant, holding fast to the faith delivered once for all.

“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure; for if you do these things you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10)

Have you secured your calling and election? Are you contending for the faith? If not, repent and return to the Lord today.

God bless you.

For prayer, counsel, or service schedules, contact:
+255693036618 / +255789001312

 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 

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THE BOOK OF JUDE: PART 1

Welcome to the study of the Word of God. Today we are looking at the book of Jude, a short epistle filled with urgent warnings for the church of today. The author, Jude, is not Judas Iscariot—the disciple who betrayed Jesus—nor Jude, one of the twelve apostles, but Jude, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ by birth (Mark 6:3). Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he wrote this brief letter addressed specifically to “those who are called”—that is, Christians—not to the whole unbelieving world.

Today, we will study verses Jude 1:1–6, and, God willing, continue with the following verses in later parts.

Scripture Reading: Jude 1:1–6

1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
2 May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe.
6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day.

Understanding the Audience

Jude makes it clear that his epistle is addressed to believers—those who have already placed their faith in Christ. This means the warnings and exhortations contained here apply to all of us who claim to be in the faith.

He reminds us that even though we may already know these truths, we need to be reminded (2 Peter 1:12–13). Why? Because forgetting leads to spiritual complacency.

Contend for the Faith (v. 3)

Jude urges believers to “contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.”
This faith was given once for all—it is not to be altered, added to, or redefined. As Paul says in Galatians 1:8–9, “If anyone preaches to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.”

To contend for the faith means to:

  • Stand firm in the truth of God’s Word.

  • Resist false teachings and ungodly influences.

  • Persevere in belief and practice, no matter the opposition.

Losing this faith is dangerous because there is no “second delivery.” If we abandon the truth, we may not get another opportunity to receive it (Hebrews 6:4–6).

A Warning from Israel’s History (v. 5)

Jude uses the example of Israel: although God delivered them from Egypt, “He later destroyed those who did not believe.”

Paul echoes this warning in 1 Corinthians 10:1–12, reminding us that all the Israelites experienced God’s salvation, yet many were struck down in the wilderness because of:

  • Idolatry (Exodus 32:1–6; 1 Corinthians 10:7)

  • Sexual immorality (Numbers 25:1–9; 1 Corinthians 10:8)

  • Testing the Lord (Numbers 21:4–9; 1 Corinthians 10:9)

  • Grumbling and discontentment (Numbers 14:1–29; 1 Corinthians 10:10)

These things happened as examples for us so that we might not desire evil as they did. Paul concludes with a sobering reminder:
“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).

Obstacles That Lead to Falling Away

  1. Idolatry
    Like Israel, many Christians are tempted to fashion “golden calves” in their own lives—modern idols such as money, fame, or even religious images. God forbids such worship (Exodus 20:3–5; 1 John 5:21).

  2. Sexual Immorality
    Just as Israel fell into sin with foreign women, sexual sin continues to shipwreck the faith of many believers today (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5; Hebrews 13:4).

  3. Grumbling and Discontentment
    Complaining against God shows a lack of trust in His sovereignty. Instead, believers are commanded to “do all things without grumbling or disputing” (Philippians 2:14).

  4. Testing God and Coveting Evil
    Many Christians fail to trust God’s plan, longing instead for the fleeting pleasures of the world. “Friendship with the world is enmity with God” (James 4:4).

The Danger of False Teachers (v. 4)

Jude warns of ungodly people who have crept in unnoticed—spiritual impostors who:

  • Twist God’s grace into a license for immorality (Romans 6:1–2; Titus 2:11–12).

  • Deny the Lordship of Jesus Christ, rejecting His authority over their lives (2 Peter 2:1–3).

These people are like weeds among the wheat (Matthew 13:24–30), awaiting certain judgment.

Even Angels Were Not Spared (v. 6)

If God did not spare the angels who sinned—casting them into chains of darkness until the final judgment (2 Peter 2:4; Revelation 20:10)—how much more will He judge humans who trample His grace?

A Call to Perseverance

We are on a spiritual journey. Just as Israel left Egypt but only Joshua and Caleb entered the Promised Land, not all who start will finish. Jesus Himself said:
“The one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13).

Let us, therefore:

  • Guard our faith with diligence (2 Timothy 4:7–8).

  • Make our calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10–11).

  • Remain fervent, not lukewarm (Revelation 3:15–16).

Conclusion: Urgency to Repent

The time is short. Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready to meet Him?
Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Repent, renew your faith, and hold fast to the truth that was entrusted to you once for all.

“Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by Him without spot or blemish, and at peace” (2 Peter 3:14).

May God bless you richly

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When I Was a Child, I Spoke Like a Child… (1 Corinthians 13:11)

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
(1 Corinthians 13:11)

As we grow in Christ, our understanding must also mature. Many know and believe in the Gospel of the Cross, which reveals how God saves sinners through Jesus. But the Bible also mentions another gospel—the Everlasting Gospel—which reveals God’s eternal judgment and calls humanity to worship Him. These two gospels serve different purposes and appear in different stages of redemptive history.

1. The Gospel of the Cross – The Message of Salvation (Soteriology)

This gospel is centered on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the salvation of sinners. It is the “power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). It is also known as the Gospel of Grace because it is based on God’s mercy, not human effort.

John 14:6 
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’”

1 Corinthians 1:18 
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

Paul warned against accepting any other gospel besides the true one:

2 Corinthians 11:4 
“For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached… or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!”

This Gospel is preached through human messengers—pastors, missionaries, and believers.

Romans 10:14–15
“How shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?…”

2. The Everlasting Gospel – The Universal Call to Worship (Natural Theology & Eschatology)

The Everlasting Gospel is found in Revelation 14:6–7 and is proclaimed not by people but by an angel, during the period of the end times—just before God’s final judgment is unleashed on the earth.

Revelation 14:6–7
“Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth… saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come…’”

Key theological theme:

  • Natural Revelation – This gospel appeals to all creation, urging people to worship the Creator (cf. Romans 1:20).
  • Eschatological Judgment – It announces God’s impending wrath, demanding immediate repentance and reverence.

Unlike the Gospel of the Cross, which offers salvation, the Everlasting Gospel issues a final call to worship God in light of imminent judgment. It is a gospel of accountability and divine justice.

3. Comparison of the Two Gospels

Aspect Gospel of the Cross Everlasting Gospel
Message Salvation through faith in Christ (Grace) Fear God and prepare for judgment
Messenger Human preachers (Romans 10:14–15) Angelic messenger (Revelation 14:6)
Audience The Church Age (individuals) The whole world during tribulation
Focus Redemption and forgiveness Worship and reverence
Timeframe Present era of grace Future time of judgment

4. What About Those Who Never Heard the Gospel? (General Revelation & Accountability)

Some ask: What about those who never heard of Jesus?

Romans 1:19–20 
“…what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them… even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”

This refers to general revelation—God reveals Himself through nature, creation, and conscience. Even those who never heard the name of Jesus still have access to the knowledge of God.

Romans 2:14–15 
“…the Gentiles… show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness…”

This is why no one can claim total ignorance of God’s will. The Everlasting Gospel ensures that God is just in judging every person.

5. God Speaks Through Conscience – Don’t Ignore It

(Sanctification and Moral Theology)

The voice of conscience is part of God’s moral law written in our hearts. When we sin, we feel guilt—not just because society says it’s wrong, but because God’s Spirit convicts us.

  • When you lie or steal, your conscience reacts.
  • When you commit sexual immorality, something inside says, “This is wrong.”
  • When you dress immodestly or act in rebellion, you feel unease.

John 16:8 
“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”

Those who continually ignore that voice become hardened.

Romans 1:28 
“Even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind…”

6. The Door of Grace is Still Open – For Now

(Dispensational Theology & Eschatology)

Right now, we live in the Age of Grace. This is the time for the Gospel of the Cross. But when the Church is raptured, this door will close. The message will shift to the Everlasting Gospel—one of judgment, not salvation.

2 Corinthians 6:2 
“‘Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.’”

Hebrews 3:15 
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”

7. Listen Before It’s Too Late

God is speaking—through His Word, through your conscience, and through His creation. Whether you’ve heard the Gospel of the Cross or are only aware of right and wrong through conscience and nature, God is calling you to repentance and faith in Christ.

If you ignore His voice now, you may only hear Him later in judgment.

Call to Action:

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.”

Come to Jesus today—not because of fear, but because of truth and love. The Gospel of the Cross invites you into eternal life, but the Everlasting Gospel warns that time is running out.

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Question:Is it true that the world was created about 6,000 years ago? And was Satan present on Earth during creation?

Answer:

From a biblical perspective, by counting the genealogies and lifespans recorded in Scripture, many scholars estimate the timeline as follows:

  • From the Garden of Eden to the Flood: approximately 2,000 years
  • From the Flood to the birth of Jesus Christ: about 2,000 years
  • From Jesus’ birth to today: roughly 2,000 years

This adds up to around 6,000 years from Eden to the present day (see Genesis genealogies; Luke 3:23-38 for Jesus’ genealogy). However, this timeline refers to the period starting from Eden, not the initial creation of the Earth itself.

The Bible begins with the statement in Genesis 1:1 

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

This verse affirms God as the eternal Creator who brought the universe into existence, but it does not specify how long ago this occurred. It could have been thousands, millions, or even billions of years ago. The exact timeframe is not detailed.

Verse 2 of Genesis introduces a condition of the Earth:
Genesis 1:2 

“And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.”

The phrase “without form, and void” (Hebrew: tohu va bohu) suggests a state of desolation or chaos. Many theologians interpret this as evidence that the original creation was subjected to judgment or ruin prior to the six-day creation account described afterward. This is often linked to the rebellion of Satan, who brought disorder to the creation (cf. Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-17—passages traditionally interpreted as referring to Satan’s fall).

This interpretation aligns with Isaiah 45:18

“For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.”

Here, God emphasizes that He did not create the Earth to be empty or desolate, but to be inhabited. The presence of chaos in Genesis 1:2 implies a disruption of God’s original perfect creation.

Therefore, the six-day creation narrative in Genesis 1 is best understood as a re-creation or restoration of the Earth following that disruption. This means that while humans and all living creatures were created about 6,000 years ago, the Earth itself existed beforehand.

Regarding Satan’s presence: the Bible indicates that Satan existed before humans were created. He appears as the serpent in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), tempting Adam and Eve into disobedience. Revelation calls him “that old serpent”:

Revelation 20:2 

“And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years.”

This reveals that Satan is a fallen angelic being who rebelled against God and was cast down from heaven to the Earth prior to humanity’s creation (cf. Luke 10:18; 2 Peter 2:4).

The biblical narrative supports that creation is not static but has undergone spiritual conflict and cosmic disturbance due to Satan’s rebellion (cf. Job 1:6-12; Colossians 1:16-17). God’s restorative work in Genesis 1:3 and onward shows His power to bring order from chaos and life from desolation.

May this understanding deepen your faith and trust in God’s sovereign plan!

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Question: What does it mean to pray with “vain repetitions”? And how should I pray so that my prayers are meaningful before God?

Answer:

God bless you. This is a great question because it helps us understand the kind of prayer God values.

In Matthew 6:7, Jesus says:

“And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.”

The phrase “vain repetitions” does not mean praying loudly or with passion. Rather, it refers to empty, mindless repetition—saying the same words over and over again without genuine thought or faith. Jesus was addressing a common religious habit, especially among the Gentiles (non-Jews), who believed that repeating long prayers could convince their gods to respond.

In contrast, Jesus teaches us that God is not moved by the quantity of our words, but by the sincerity of our hearts.

Jesus continues in Matthew 6:8:

“Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”

This shows a key theological truth: God is omniscient—He knows all things, including our needs before we even express them (see also Psalm 139:1–4). So, we don’t need to perform or strive to get His attention. He’s already listening.

The Heart of the Matter

In Matthew 6:5–6, Jesus also warns about praying just to be seen by others:

Verse 5 – “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.”

Verse 6 – “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

Here, Jesus emphasizes that prayer is a private, spiritual communion with God, not a performance for others. The reward of such sincere prayer is not praise from people, but a personal response from the Father who sees in secret.

Does This Mean Loud or Repeated Prayer Is Always Wrong?

Not at all. There are many examples in Scripture where God’s people prayed with strong emotion and even repeated themselves:

  • Jesus Himself prayed the same words three times in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:44).
  • David cried out loudly to God in the Psalms (Psalm 142:1).
  • The early church prayed fervently together in Acts (Acts 4:24–31).

So the issue is not volume or repetition alone, but the intention behind it.

If we pray loudly to pour out our hearts to God—that’s good. But if we pray loudly or repetitively just to look spiritual or to earn God’s attention, then our prayer loses its meaning.

What About Religious Traditions That Repeat Prayers?

In some traditions, people repeat prayers like the Rosary or the “Hail Mary” for long periods, thinking that repeating them many times increases their power. However, this directly contradicts Jesus’ warning in Matthew 6:7. Repetition in itself is not wrong—but mindless repetition is.

God wants your heart, not just your lips. He desires a personal relationship, not a religious ritual (see Isaiah 29:13).

How Should You Pray?

When you go before God:

  • Be honest and focused.
  • Present your needs clearly.
  • Avoid trying to impress Him or others.
  • Don’t rely on formulas—just speak from the heart.
  • Once you’re done, give thanks and trust that God heard you.

As Philippians 4:6 says:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

When you pray this way—authentically, humbly, and with faith—your prayers will be meaningful before God.

May the Lord bless you and teach you to pray in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

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QUESTION:Will all Jews be saved according to Romans 11:26?

Romans 11:25–26 
“For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery… that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob.”

ANSWER:

The phrase “all Israel shall be saved” in Romans 11:26 does not mean that every Jewish person throughout history will be saved automatically, regardless of their belief or lifestyle. Instead, it refers to a future national turning of the Jewish people to faith in Jesus Christ, which will happen when the “fullness of the Gentiles” is complete.

Let’s break this down theologically and biblically.

1. Not All Physical Jews Are Spiritual Israel

The apostle Paul makes it clear that ethnic identity alone does not guarantee salvation. Just being descended from Abraham or Israel does not make someone truly part of God’s covenant people.

Romans 9:6-7 
“Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:
Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.”

Paul distinguishes between ethnic Israel (Jews by birth) and spiritual Israel (those who live by faith). True covenant membership is based not on genetics but on faith and obedience to God—just as it was for Abraham (Romans 4:13-16).

2. Biblical History: Even in the Old Testament, Not All Jews Were Saved

Many Jews in the Old Testament were judged by God for their sin and rebellion, despite being descendants of Abraham:

  • Korah and Dathan rebelled and were swallowed up by the earth (Numbers 16).
  • Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli, were immoral priests judged by God (1 Samuel 2).
  • Bar-Jesus, a Jewish false prophet, was called “a child of the devil” by Paul (Acts 13:6–10).

Acts 13:10
“O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness…”

God’s judgment is impartial. As Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” Even chosen people are held accountable if they reject God’s truth.

3. Israel’s Blindness Is Temporary—and Part of God’s Redemptive Plan

Paul explains that Israel’s current unbelief is not permanent. God allowed this partial hardening so that the gospel would be preached to the Gentiles (non-Jews). But once that time is complete, God will turn again to the Jewish people, and many will believe in Jesus as their Messiah.

Romans 11:25 
“…blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.”

Romans 11:24 
“If thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature… how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?”

This is part of God’s mysterious salvation plan—His mercy shown first to Israel, then to the Gentiles, and then returning again to Israel (Romans 11:30-32). It reflects God’s sovereignty in election and mercy (Romans 9:15–16).

4. “All Israel Shall Be Saved” Refers to a Faithful Remnant

When Paul says “all Israel shall be saved,” he is not referring to every Jew who has ever lived. Instead, he is referring to a future generation of Jewish people—those who will repent and believe in Jesus near the end of the age.

Isaiah 59:20— which Paul quotes in Romans 11:26:
“And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.”

The “all Israel” refers to the faithful remnant among the Jewish people—those who turn from sin and trust in the Redeemer. This is consistent with Old Testament prophecy and with Paul’s earlier statement in Romans 9:27

“Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved.”

5. Gentiles Are Also Warned Not to Be Arrogant

Gentile believers are warned not to become prideful, thinking that they have replaced Israel forever. Paul warns that God can cut off Gentile believers just as He disciplined Israel.

Romans 11:21 
“For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.”

6. The Window of Grace Is Closing

While we still live in the age of grace, a time is coming when the door will close. Jesus warned that many will want to enter but will find the door shut:

Luke 13:25 
“When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door…”

Hebrews 2:3
“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation…”

This is a call to urgency. Salvation is available now by faith in Christ. Whether Jew or Gentile, no one should presume upon God’s mercy.

Not all Jews will be saved automatically just because they are descendants of Abraham. Salvation has always been through faith, not bloodline. When Romans 11:26 says “all Israel shall be saved,” it is referring to a future turning of the Jewish people to Jesus Christ—a faithful remnant who repent and believe at the end of the age.

In the meantime, Gentiles should not be proud or careless with the grace they’ve received. We are living in a critical moment of opportunity. The gospel has reached us—but it will soon return to Israel.

So the real question is:
Have you received this grace personally?
Is your life in Christ, or are you still outside the door?

God has opened the door wide—for now.

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Question: What is the sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit?

Answer:

The sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit is described clearly by Jesus in Matthew 12:25-32 

When the Pharisees accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (the prince of demons), Jesus responded:
“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand… If I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you… Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men.” (vv. 25-28, 31)

Explanation:

1.   Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit Is a Deliberate Rejection of God’s Work:
The Pharisees saw Jesus perform miracles and cast out demons through the power of the Holy Spirit, yet they knowingly attributed His work to demonic powers (Beelzebul). This was a willful and malicious denial of God’s truth (cf. Hebrews 10:26-29), showing a hardened heart that rejects the Holy Spirit’s testimony.

2.   The Holy Spirit Reveals Truth and Brings Conviction:
The Spirit convicts the world of sin and reveals Jesus as Lord (John 16:8-11). Rejecting the Spirit’s work is therefore a rejection of God’s only means to salvation (cf. Acts 2:38). This sin is unforgivable because it cuts a person off from repentance and faith.

3.   Not a Momentary Doubt or Sin, But Persistent Hardness of Heart:
The unforgivable sin is not a single slip or question of faith but a persistent, willful rejection of the Spirit’s testimony about Christ (cf. 1 John 1:9 — forgiveness is promised for confessing sinners).

4.   Nicodemus’ Example Shows the Pharisees Knew the Truth:
Nicodemus, a Pharisee, acknowledged Jesus’ divine authority (John 3:1-2), proving the religious leaders were not ignorant but chose to blaspheme intentionally.

5.   Practical Warning for Believers:
When we see God’s Spirit at work through a believer, we must not accuse that person of evil or deception out of jealousy or misunderstanding (cf. James 3:9-10). Doing so can hinder God’s work and cause spiritual damage.

6.   Encouragement for Those Who Fear God:
Many believers fear they have committed this sin due to guilt over past sins. However, a repentant heart that seeks God’s forgiveness shows the Spirit is active in you. The blasphemy against the Spirit is marked by total hardness and refusal to repent, not by sincere repentance (cf. Romans 8:16)

Blaspheming the Holy Spirit is a conscious, hardened rejection of God’s Spirit and work through Jesus Christ. It’s unforgivable because it rejects the very means God provides for salvation. But those who genuinely repent and trust in Jesus can be confident of forgiveness and salvation.

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