Is It Appropriate to Celebrate Palm Sunday?
Question: As believers, is it acceptable for us to carry palm branches on Palm Sunday when entering church or walking in a procession?
Answer: Palm Sunday marks the Sunday before Easter, commemorating the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. This event is significant because it fulfills Old Testament prophecy and highlights Jesus’ messianic identity.
In Matthew 21:1-11 (ESV), we read:
When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, “The Lord needs them,” and he will send them at once.’ This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, ‘Say to the daughter of Zion, “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.”’ The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!’ When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred, saying, ‘Who is this?’ And the crowds said, ‘This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.
This passage shows the deep significance of the event: Jesus is publicly acknowledged as the Messiah, the King prophesied in Zechariah 9:9 (ESV):
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey.
Theological Implications:
Messianic Fulfillment: Jesus intentionally fulfills the messianic prophecy, openly declaring His identity and mission.
Praise and Recognition: The people’s actions—spreading cloaks and waving palm branches—are acts of praise, worship, and acknowledgment of Jesus’ kingship. The palm branches symbolize victory and triumph (cf. Leviticus 23:40).
The Meaning of Hosanna: The cry “Hosanna” means “Save us now,” expressing the people’s hope for deliverance through Jesus.
Is it Scriptural to Celebrate Palm Sunday Today?
The Bible does not command or prescribe the celebration of Palm Sunday or any annual commemoration. The early church focused on the resurrection (Acts 2:24-32) rather than commemorative rituals.
However, celebrating Palm Sunday as a time to remember and reflect on Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy, His kingship, and the path to the cross can be a meaningful form of worship—if done with theological soundness.
Guidelines for Observance:
Proper Intent: Carrying palm branches as a symbolic act of praise and remembrance is biblically consistent. It parallels how the Israelites used palms to celebrate God’s deliverance (Psalm 92:12).
Avoid Idolatry: The palm branches must not be treated as objects with inherent spiritual power or used in superstitious practices (Deuteronomy 4:15-19).
No Magical Thinking: Using palms as talismans to ward off curses or cast out demons departs from biblical teaching and can lead to idolatry and syncretism.
Warnings:
Scripture warns against practices that substitute ritual for genuine faith (Isaiah 1:11-17). Worship must be in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24).
Relying on objects rather than God’s power is a form of idolatry (Exodus 20:4-5).
Conclusion:
While Palm Sunday is not a commanded celebration, it can be a valuable opportunity for believers to meditate on Jesus’ kingship, His fulfillment of prophecy, and the path to salvation. Observed with a correct understanding and devotion to God alone, it is a wholesome practice. But if it becomes mere ritual, superstition, or idolatry, it grieves God.
May we always worship Christ sincerely, recognizing Him as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).
God bless you.
Why Did Jesus Allow the Demons to Enter the Pigs?
📖 The Story at a Glance
In Luke 8:31–32, we read:
“And they begged Him not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged Him to let them enter these. So He gave them permission.”
The same story is echoed in Matthew 8:29, where the demons cried out:
“What have You to do with us, O Son of God? Have You come here to torment us before the time?”
These verses record a strange event where Jesus allowed demons to leave a man and enter a herd of pigs. The pigs then rushed into a lake and drowned.
This raises an important question:
Why did Jesus listen to the demons at all? Why not just cast them out or destroy them directly?
Let’s look at this theologically and practically.
✨ 1. Jesus Was Demonstrating the Reality of the Spiritual Realm
If Jesus had simply cast out the demons without any visible effect, people might have doubted the miracle. They might’ve said, “Maybe he just had a mental illness,” or “Maybe he calmed down after seeing Jesus.”
But by allowing the demons to enter the pigs—who immediately ran into the lake and drowned—it provided undeniable, physical evidence that something real and destructive had left the man.
This act served as a visible confirmation of what had occurred spiritually.
Jesus knew people needed to understand that evil is not just metaphorical—it’s real, active, and dangerous. In John 10:10, Jesus says:
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
The destruction of the pigs was a dramatic symbol of the true nature of demonic forces—they seek to destroy whatever they possess.
⏳ 2. It Was Not Yet Time for Final Judgment
In Matthew 8:29, the demons ask, “Have You come here to torment us before the time?” This shows they were aware of their future judgment.
According to Revelation 20:10, the final destination of Satan and his demons is the lake of fire:
“And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur… and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
The demons knew this was coming, but not yet. Jesus, in His divine wisdom, respected the prophetic timeline. He didn’t rush judgment because the fullness of God’s plan—centered in His death and resurrection—was still unfolding.
🧠 3. Jesus Showed His Complete Authority Over the Spiritual Realm
Even though the demons begged, they did not command Jesus—He permitted them. This reveals Christ’s absolute authority.
Colossians 2:15 says:
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
Even before the cross, Jesus was showing glimpses of that final triumph. His ability to command demons, and their submission to Him, shows us who holds the true power.
🙌 What Does This Mean for Us Today?
🛡️ You Have Authority in Christ
Jesus’ authority over demons wasn’t just for that one day. It was also a model for us. In Luke 10:19, Jesus tells His followers:
“I have given you authority… to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
We don’t engage demons in conversation or negotiation. We cast them out in Jesus’ name. The demons in the story surrendered to Jesus before He even spoke—because of the power in Him. That same power now works through believers.
✅ Takeaway: Walk in the Authority You’ve Been Given
Jesus allowed the demons to enter the pigs to show the reality of evil, the power of God, and the order in God’s redemptive plan. This was not about mercy to demons, but about a teaching moment for people—and for us today.
So:
- Recognize evil for what it is.
- Understand that Jesus is above every demonic force.
- Use the authority He gave you.
James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
May the Lord strengthen your faith, sharpen your discernment, and empower you to walk in boldness.
God bless you.
“They took Him along, just as He was, in the boat.”
(Mark 4:35–36)
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him.
This brief but powerful verse paints a vivid picture of the humanity and mission-driven life of Jesus Christ. After a long day of teaching crowds, Jesus doesn’t pause for refreshment or comfort—He simply continues to the next mission destination, just as He was.
The Humanity and Sacrifice of Jesus
This phrase—“just as He was”—points to Jesus’ genuine humanity. He experienced fatigue, hunger, and emotional strain. This aligns with the doctrine of the Incarnation (John 1:14), which teaches that the Son of God became fully human while remaining fully divine.
We see this again in John 4, during His encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well:
“Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.”
(John 4:6)
Jesus was weary from travel—just as any of us would be. Yet when the woman arrived, He did not prioritize His physical need for rest or food. Instead, He immediately turned to the deeper spiritual need before Him. When His disciples returned with food, His response was profound:
“I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”
(John 4:32)
This illustrates a key theological truth: the obedience of Christ (Philippians 2:6–8). Jesus consistently placed the Father’s mission above His own needs, revealing a divine purpose that surpassed human limitations.
Urgency of the Mission
In Mark 4, Jesus doesn’t ask for a break before setting out. His decision to cross over to the other side of the lake at night shows the urgency of God’s mission. His movements were not dictated by comfort or routine, but by divine direction (John 5:19).
That the disciples took Him “just as He was” reminds us that ministry isn’t always neat or convenient. The gospel advances not through human perfection but through faith and obedience.
Jesus was so physically exhausted that He fell asleep in the boat—even as a storm raged around Him:
“Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion.”
(Mark 4:38)
This again affirms the real physical toll His ministry took and His trust in the Father’s care.
What Does This Teach Us?
Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). The same readiness and urgency He had then, He still has now.
As believers, we often think we need to be fully prepared before God can use us—prepared with long fasts, perfect prayers, biblical knowledge, or ministry training. While those things have value (2 Timothy 2:15), they are not prerequisites for God to act. What He asks for is our availability and obedience.
God often works through our weakness, not our strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). He calls us to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Just as the disciples took Jesus into the boat as He was, we are called to receive and follow Him as we are, trusting that He will work through us.
Don’t Wait—Go Now
When Jesus sent out the Twelve, He didn’t give them wealth or resources. He gave them Himself and His authority:
“Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts—no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.”
(Matthew 10:9–10)
The theological principle here is missional dependence—total reliance on God’s provision and presence, not on material preparation.
Even today, Jesus is not asking for elaborate setups or perfection. He’s simply saying, “Take Me just as I am—and go.” He is ready to walk with you into your family, your workplace, your church, your mission field—wherever He leads.
The Call to Willingness
The story of Jesus being taken “just as He was” is not just a historical detail—it’s a discipleship principle. Are we willing to follow Christ with that same urgency and trust? Are we ready to serve without needing every condition to be perfect?
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
(Matthew 6:33)
Let’s stop waiting. Let’s stop hesitating. Let’s take Jesus—just as He is—and follow Him into whatever He has called us to do.
May the Lord give us hearts that are ready and willing to serve Him in every season and situation.
God bless you.
What Does “A Person Shall Bear Their Own Sin” Mean? (Leviticus 5:17)
Question: What does God’s Word mean when it says, “a person shall bear their own sin or guilt”?
Answer: Let’s examine the Scriptures closely.
Leviticus 5:17 states:
“If a person sins, doing any one of the things that by the Lord’s commandments ought not to be done, though he did not know it, he is still guilty and shall bear his iniquity.”
This passage highlights the principle of individual moral responsibility—each person is accountable before God for their own sins, whether willful or ignorant. Theologically, this aligns with the doctrine of personal accountability (Ezekiel 18:20,: “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father…”).
Similarly, Leviticus 24:15-16 says:
“Whoever curses God shall bear his sin. Whoever blasphemes the name of the Lord shall be put to death.”
Here we see the seriousness of sin against God’s holiness, where the sinner alone bears the guilt.
Retributive Justice in the Old Testament
The Old Testament law operated under the principle of lex talionis (“law of retaliation”), expressed in passages such as Exodus 21:23-25:
“But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot…”
This principle was meant to limit excessive punishment and ensure justice was proportional, not vengeful. It demonstrated God’s justice and holiness in maintaining order (Deuteronomy 19:21).
Leviticus 24:17-20 reiterates this principle:
“Whoever kills a human being shall be put to death. Whoever kills an animal shall make it good, life for life. If anyone injures his neighbor, as he has done it shall be done to him: fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth…”
No Retribution for Punishment Executed Under God’s Command
In certain cases, such as blasphemy or idolatry, those who executed God’s judgment were not punished. For example, the blasphemer was stoned (Leviticus 24:14-16), but those who carried out the sentence did not bear guilt for murder.
This reflects the theological distinction between divine justice and human vengeance. The punishment was ordained by God, so the sinner alone bore responsibility for the sin and its consequences. This is the sense in which “the one who died bears their own sin” — the sin and guilt do not transfer to the executioners.
Bearing the Sin of an Innocent Person
If someone killed an innocent person, the killers bore the guilt of murder and were to be punished (Numbers 35:30: “Whoever kills a person shall be put to death…”). This is referred to as “bearing the blood” of another (Genesis 9:5-6), emphasizing the sacredness of human life as made in God’s image (Imago Dei).
New Testament Teaching on Justice and Vengeance
In the New Testament, the principle of personal accountability remains (Romans 14:12: “So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”), but the approach to justice changes radically.
Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:38-39:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
This reveals the kingdom ethic of forgiveness and grace, replacing strict retribution.
Paul reiterates in Romans 12:19:
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
Thus, the New Testament forbids personal vengeance, emphasizing God’s justice and mercy.
May the Lord help us live responsibly and humbly before Him, trusting His justice and mercy.
What’s the Difference Between Life and Eternal Life According to the Bible?
When we talk about “life”, we usually mean natural, physical life—the ability to breathe, grow, eat, and move. This life is shared by all living creatures—humans, animals, and plants. It is the life of the body.
The Bible confirms this natural life:
“The righteous care for the life of their animals, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel.”
— Proverbs 12:10
This Life is the biological life God has given to living beings. It is necessary for survival, but it is temporary and limited to this earthly existence.
What is Life? The Spiritual and Eternal Life
The Bible reveals a deeper kind of life called “Eternal Life”, which is best understood as eternal life or spiritual life. This life is not merely physical existence but a quality of life that comes from knowing God personally through Jesus Christ.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
— John 10:10
Here, Jesus contrasts the natural life with the abundant life that He gives—a life characterized by fullness, joy, and eternal significance.
Body vs. Spirit
- Life refers to the physical life of the body, shared with all living creatures (Genesis 2:7; Psalm 104:29-30). Plants and animals have life but do not have eternal life.
- Eternal life refers to spiritual life, the life of the soul that continues forever and is found only in a restored relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
— John 17:3
This verse defines eternal life not just as endless existence but as knowing God personally, emphasizing the relational aspect of Eternal life.
Why Does This Matter?
Anyone outside of Christ has physical life but lacks eternal life. They are alive in the body but spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1).
“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…”
— Ephesians 2:1
Those who receive Christ are given eternal life, which transcends physical death.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
— John 3:36
Do you have eternal life in you?
Is Jesus Christ truly a part of your life, or are you only alive physically?
Without Christ, life is limited to this world and ends with death. With Christ, life continues forever, in intimate relationship with God.
The Lord is coming!
“You Will Be the Head and Not the Tail” — What Does That Really Mean?
In Deuteronomy 28:13, God makes a profound promise to His covenant people:
“The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.”
What Does It Mean to Be “the Head and Not the Tail”?
This phrase is a metaphor used within the blessings section of Deuteronomy 28, where God outlines the results of obedience to His covenant. To be “the head” symbolizes leadership, prominence, influence, and divine favor. In contrast, “the tail” symbolizes subordination, shame, and disadvantage.
This speaks to God’s design for His people to reflect His glory through obedience. Those who align with His will are elevated, while those who rebel fall under consequences. This aligns with the biblical theme found throughout the Torah and the Prophets: obedience brings blessing; disobedience brings curse (see also Deuteronomy 30:15–20).
Why Not Say “the Head and Not the Foot”?
It’s interesting that Scripture doesn’t contrast the “head” with the “foot,” but with the “tail.” This suggests that the imagery comes from the anatomy of animals—creatures that have both heads and tails.
- The head represents direction, decision-making, and nourishment—it receives food and leads the body.
- The tail is at the very end, following wherever the body moves. It is also near the part of the body where waste exits—symbolically linked to what is undesirable, dirty, and secondary.
From a theological perspective, this shows us a picture of two types of people:
- Those who fear and obey God: They are leaders, recipients of God’s best, and influencers in the world (Matthew 5:14–16).
- Those who reject God’s ways: They end up followers of the world, recipients of defilement and disgrace, pushed around by circumstances instead of being guided by divine wisdom.
Jesus affirms this kingdom principle in Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Covenant Context: Blessings for Obedience, Curses for Disobedience
The entire chapter of Deuteronomy 28 outlines the blessings of the covenant (vv. 1–14) and the curses for breaking it (vv. 15–68). The promise to be the head, not the tail, is conditional. It is not automatic—it requires faithful obedience.
Later in the same chapter, we read the consequences of disobedience:
“The foreigners who reside among you will rise above you higher and higher, but you will sink lower and lower. They will lend to you, but you will not lend to them. They will be the head, but you will be the tail.” (Deuteronomy 28:43–44)
This reversal shows what happens when people ignore God’s commands—they lose not only their blessing, but also their position, influence, and dignity.
Spiritual Application Today
While these promises were originally given to Israel under the Old Covenant, their spiritual principles remain true for us today under the New Covenant through Christ. In Christ, we are also called to walk in obedience—not to earn salvation, but as evidence of our transformation (Ephesians 2:10, John 14:15).
God desires His people to be examples in society—those who reflect His justice, truth, and mercy. We are called to lead, not lag behind; to influence, not be controlled by the world.
As Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Those who live according to God’s Word will be like the head—stable, wise, fruitful, and favored.
Choose Your Position
Being the “head” is about more than status—it’s about living under the rule and blessing of God. If we desire that place of blessing, leadership, and purpose, we must listen to God’s voice, follow His Word, and reject the idols and systems of the world.
“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19)
Let’s choose life. Let’s walk in obedience. Let’s live as the head, not the tail.
May the Lord help us. Amen.
Understanding the Difference Between Law and Principle in the Bible
In biblical, it’s important to distinguish between a law (Hebrew: torah or mishpat) and a principle or ordinance (Hebrew: chuqqah or piqqudim). Though related, they are not the same.
A law is a direct, binding command from God—a moral or ceremonial obligation that must be followed.
A principle (or ordinance) refers to the detailed instructions or regulations that guide how the law is to be carried out.
This distinction helps us understand how God communicates both what He wants from us and how to fulfill it.
Biblical Example: The Passover
In Exodus 12, God commands the Israelites to observe the Passover—this is the law. But alongside the law, He gives very specific principles about how it should be observed.
“This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you… On the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb…”
(Exodus 12:2–3)
The law is: “You shall keep the Passover.”
The principles include:
- It must be on the 14th day of the first month,
- A lamb without blemish must be selected and slaughtered,
- It must be roasted with fire,
- It must be eaten with bitter herbs and unleavened bread.
These details are not additional laws—they are regulations that guide the proper keeping of the one law.
“You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever.”
(Exodus 12:24)
Law and Principle Unified: Numbers 9:14
“You shall have one statute, both for the sojourner and for the native, for him who does any of these things.”
(Numbers 9:14)
This verse affirms that both the law and its principles applied to everyone—Israelite and foreigner alike. Obedience to God’s commands required attention not just to what was commanded, but how it was to be practiced.
Application in the New Covenant: The Law of Christ
In the New Testament, believers are no longer under the Mosaic Law (Galatians 3:24–25), but under the Law of Christ, which is summarized in love.
“For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
(Galatians 5:14)
However, even love has principles—practical expressions that define what true, godly love looks like.
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude…”
(1 Corinthians 13:4–5)
These are principles of love—guidelines that show how to obey the law of Christ in daily life. Love is not left undefined; Scripture teaches us how to love.
Biblical Pattern: Precept Upon Precept
God often reveals His will progressively—through both laws and the principles that support them.
“And the word of the Lord will be to them: precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little…”
(Isaiah 28:13)
This verse reflects the pedagogical method of Scripture—God teaches us step by step, helping us build understanding over time.
Understanding the difference between law and principle deepens our walk with God. The law gives the command; the principles guide the application. From the Old Testament to the New, God has always desired not just external obedience, but thoughtful, informed, and wholehearted devotion.
Let us therefore study both the commandments of Christ and the principles that teach us how to live them out daily.
Come, Lord Jesus! – Revelation 22:20
What’s the Difference Between Holiness and Glory?
Understanding the difference between holiness and glory is vital in grasping the nature of God and His work in our lives. Though these words are often used together, they are not the same. Let’s explore what each means and how they relate to each other from a biblical and theological perspective.
1. What is Holiness?
Holiness refers to moral purity, separation from sin, and dedication to God. The Hebrew word for holy (qadosh) means “set apart.” In the New Testament, the Greek term hagios carries a similar meaning.
To be holy means to be pure, undefiled, and separated for God’s purposes. This applies both to physical things (like the temple or sacrifices) and to people who follow God.
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”
— 1 Peter 1:14–15
A holy person is someone who has been cleansed by the blood of Jesus and chooses to live in obedience to God, rejecting sin.
2. What is Glory?
Glory (Hebrew: kabod; Greek: doxa) refers to the visible or manifest beauty, brilliance, or greatness of God. It is the radiance that results from His nature and holiness. In simple terms, glory is what shines out from holiness—the visible or tangible expression of God’s perfection.
To illustrate: when gold is purified, it shines. That shine is its glory. Similarly, God’s holiness results in an overwhelming radiance—His glory.
“And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother… and he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.”
— Matthew 17:1–2
Here, Jesus’ inner holiness was revealed outwardly as glory—a visible, radiant light.
3. Holiness Produces Glory
We must understand this principle: Holiness comes first, and glory flows from it. You cannot have true glory without holiness. When someone is holy—cleansed from sin, walking in the Spirit, and separated for God—the glory of God becomes evident in their life, even if it’s not visible in a physical sense.
Jesus, being perfectly holy, revealed the glory of God in everything He did. Likewise, believers who pursue holiness reflect God’s glory in their lives.
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:18
4. God’s Glory Flows From His Perfect Holiness
God’s glory is inseparable from His holiness. In Isaiah’s vision, the seraphim declare God’s holiness repeatedly—and then say the earth is full of His glory:
“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.”
— Isaiah 6:3
Here, the holiness of God is the foundation of His overwhelming glory. Even the angels hide their faces from His radiant presence (Isaiah 6:2), showing that His glory is awe-inspiring and powerful.
5. Can Human Beings Reflect God’s Holiness and Glory?
Absolutely. Through the sanctifying work of Christ and the Holy Spirit, believers are called to live holy lives—and in doing so, they reflect the glory of God in a dark world.
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
— 1 Peter 2:9
And in the Old Testament:
“As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”
— Psalm 16:3
Holiness is not just possible—it is expected of all who belong to Christ. And through that holiness, God’s light (His glory) shines through us to the world.
Holiness is about being clean, pure, and set apart for God. Glory is the radiance that flows from that holiness. Without holiness, there can be no true glory. But if we walk in holiness, God’s glory will shine in us and through us.
Let us, therefore, pursue holiness—not just for personal piety, but that the glory of God might be revealed in our lives.
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
— Hebrews 12:14
May the Lord help us live holy lives that reflect His glory.
PRAY AT THE RIGHT TIME
In Zechariah 10:1, it says:
“Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the spring rains, for the Lord makes clouds, and he gives them showers of rain, to everyone vegetation in the field.”
This verse highlights the importance of praying in the right season. God’s providence is tied to the natural order and timing He has established (Genesis 8:22). Asking for rain during the rainy season aligns with His created rhythm and reflects faith in His timing.
Why does the scripture specify praying for rain during the spring rains and not during the dry season? Because the spring rains are the appointed time for rain. If rain fails to come then, it is an extraordinary situation that calls for prayer (James 5:17-18). But praying for rain during the dry season, when it is naturally less expected, is less effective because it is outside God’s ordained time.
This principle applies broadly to prayer and God’s blessings: there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Praying in alignment with God’s timing is crucial for effective prayers.
For example:
- If you are a student, praying for academic success and wisdom (James 1:5) fits your current season better than praying for wealth or a spouse.
- If you are young and still dependent on your parents, praying for protection and good character is appropriate until you reach the season of marriage (1 Timothy 4:12).
When you pray for the right things in God’s appointed season, He responds with mercy and grace (Psalm 145:8-9). Even if answers seem delayed, God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and His delays are for our good (Romans 8:28).
If you are in the right season but don’t yet see results, be patient and trust God’s promises (Hebrews 6:12). He will strengthen you daily (Isaiah 40:31).
Salvation also has its appointed season—and that season is now.
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 says:
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
This underscores the urgency of responding to God’s grace. Salvation is a present reality offered through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), but this opportunity will not last forever. Scripture warns that a time will come when the door of grace closes (Hebrews 10:26-27) and forgiveness is no longer available (Ecclesiastes 11:3).
Many today ignore God’s warnings about sin (Romans 1:18-32) and reject His offer of salvation. But God’s patience is not infinite (2 Peter 3:9), and judgment will come for those who persist in rebellion (Hebrews 10:31).
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 shows how God sent prophets to warn His people, but they rejected them until His wrath came and no remedy remained. This reminds us that ignoring God’s timing and warnings leads to judgment.
Pray in accordance with God’s timing, understanding the season you are in. Seek God’s guidance, protection, and provision relevant to your stage in life. Above all, respond to the urgent call of salvation today while God’s grace is available.
May the Lord help us discern the right seasons and respond faithfully.
Who Was the First to See the Risen Lord Jesus—Peter or Mary Magdalene?
Question: Between Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to see the risen Lord Jesus? Luke 24:34 says Jesus appeared first to Simon Peter, but Mark 16:9 says Mary Magdalene was the first. How can these two statements be reconciled?
Biblical Examination
Luke 24:33-34 states:
“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together, saying, ‘The Lord has truly risen and has appeared to Simon!’”
This passage highlights that Jesus appeared to Simon Peter (also called Cephas).
On the other hand, Mark 16:9 records:
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”
This clearly identifies Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the risen Jesus.
Sequence and Significance
There is no contradiction here because the passages emphasize different moments and theological meanings.
- Mary Magdalene as the First Witness:
Mark 16:9 and John 20:1-18 emphasize Mary Magdalene’s role as the first human witness to the resurrection. Theologically, this is significant because Mary represents the marginalized and forgiven sinner (Luke 8:2), demonstrating that the resurrection is a message of hope for all, not just the religious elite. - Peter as the First Apostle Witness:
Luke 24:34 stresses Jesus’ appearance to Simon Peter, who was the leader of the apostles (Matthew 16:18-19). Theologically, this establishes Peter’s authority in the early Church and affirms apostolic witness, crucial for the foundation of the Christian faith (Ephesians 2:20). - Sequence of Appearances:
Mary Magdalene’s encounter happened early, immediately after Jesus’ resurrection, as recorded in Mark and John. After informing the disciples, Jesus appeared to Peter (1 Corinthians 15:5), validating Peter’s role as an eyewitness and leader.
Supporting Scripture
John 20:14-18
Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb and is the first to see Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the personal, relational nature of the risen Christ calling His follower by name.
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Paul summarizes resurrection appearances:
“…that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…”
This passage emphasizes the historical reality and communal testimony of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Christian faith.
Have you personally encountered the risen Jesus? The resurrection promises victory over death and eternal life (John 11:25-26). As we live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), the question remains: where will you be when Jesus returns? The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16)—don’t reject it as foolishness.
May the grace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ empower and guide us always.
