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WALK WITHIN YOUR SUKKOTHA

This message is part of an ongoing series dedicated to equipping God’s servants. Whether you serve as a pastor, teacher, apostle, bishop, prophet, or in any other leadership capacity in the body of Christ, these insights are especially for you.

A Shepherd’s Wisdom: Understanding the Pace of the Flock

In Genesis 33, Jacob prepares to meet his brother Esau after years of separation. The reunion, though potentially tense due to their past conflict (Genesis 27:41), turns out to be peaceful and filled with reconciliation a profound act of divine grace and restoration (cf. Proverbs 16:7).

But after this emotional reunion, a subtle yet theologically rich moment unfolds. Esau invites Jacob to travel with him, but Jacob gently declines. His reason reveals the heart of a true shepherd:

“My lord knows that the children are tender and that I must care for the ewes and cows that are nursing their young. If they are driven hard even one day, all the animals will die.”
(Genesis 33:13, NIV)

Jacob understood that the people and livestock under his care required a slower, more considerate pace. He said:

“So let my lord go on ahead of his servant, while I move along slowly at the pace of the herds before me and the children…”
(Genesis 33:14, NIV)

This shows us several key principles:

1. Leadership Requires Discernment and Compassion

Jacob’s choice reflects a theological truth: good leadership is not about speed but stewardship. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, exemplifies this in John 10:11, saying:

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

A shepherd doesn’t push the sheep to exhaustion he leads them gently, according to their ability to follow. Compare this to Isaiah 40:11:

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
(Isaiah 40:11, NIV)

Jacob models this kind of leadership, putting the welfare of his flock above the convenience of traveling with Esau.

2. Ministry Includes the Weak and the Vulnerable

The Church, like Jacob’s camp, is diverse. It includes spiritual infants (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:1–2), the wounded, the maturing, and the strong. Paul recognized this in Romans 14:1:

“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.”

And in 1 Thessalonians 5:14:

“…Encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.”

Jacob’s decision to slow down teaches us to avoid placing unreasonable expectations on those we lead. Ministry must adapt to meet people where they are, not where we wish they were.

3. Sukkoth: A Place of Shelter and Strategy

“Jacob, however, went to Sukkoth, where he built a place for himself and made shelters for his livestock. That is why the place is called Sukkoth.”
(Genesis 33:17, NIV)

The name Sukkoth means “booths” or “shelters” in Hebrew (סֻכּוֹת), symbolizing protection and preparation. This foreshadows later biblical themes such as the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) in Leviticus 23:42–43, where Israel was commanded to dwell in booths to remember God’s provision during the wilderness.

Jacob building shelters also reflects the principle of pastoral foresight. Leaders must create spiritual “Sukkoths” places of rest, healing, and protection for their congregations. Jesus calls the weary to such a place in:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
(Matthew 11:28, NIV)

4. Rushing Ahead Can Lead to Loss

Jacob recognized that a hurried journey could cost him dearly. Leaders must guard against the temptation to “arrive” at ministry milestones quickly. As seen in Ecclesiastes 7:8:

“The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.”

Moses himself slowed his pace for the sake of the people (see Numbers 9:18–23). He moved when the cloud moved not before. Like Moses, like Jacob, we must learn that divine timing often requires pastoral patience.

Build Your Sukkoth

Jacob didn’t just slow down he built. He created a temporary sanctuary for his people, a place of shelter in the journey. Likewise, leaders today must create spiritual Sukkoths safe spaces for growth, healing, and rest within the local church.

Let us not measure our success by speed or size, but by faithfulness to God and care for His people. In all things, walk with your flock don’t run ahead of them.

May the Lord bless you as you lead with wisdom, patience, and compassion.
Shalom.

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What Were the Silver Shrines of Artemis?

(Acts 19:24)

Answer: Let’s Examine the Scriptures and Historical Context

Acts 19:24 (NKJV):
“For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen.”

In the first-century city of Ephesus, a center of commerce and pagan religion, the worship of Artemis (also known as Diana in Roman mythology) was deeply embedded in the culture. The Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a colossal structure dedicated to a fertility goddess believed to influence nature, childbirth, and prosperity.

According to Acts 19, a man named Demetrius, a silversmith by trade, made miniature silver shrines of Artemis. These portable idols were sold to both locals and pilgrims who visited Ephesus for religious festivals. These shrines represented not only the goddess but also served as talismans and symbols of allegiance.

The Theology of True vs. False Worship

The Bible clearly distinguishes between the worship of the true and living God and the worship of idols, which it equates with worshiping demons.

Deuteronomy 32:17 (NKJV):
“They sacrificed to demons, not to God, to gods they did not know, to new gods, new arrivals that your fathers did not fear.”

Psalm 96:5 (NKJV):
“For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.”

The only temple ever sanctioned by God in the Old Testament was located in Jerusalem, where His name and presence dwelt (1 Kings 8:10–11). Any other “temple” outside of this, including that of Artemis, was considered pagan and blasphemous. Worship in these temples was directed toward false deities and, according to Paul, ultimately toward Satan (1 Corinthians 10:20).

The Confrontation in Ephesus: Gospel vs. Idolatry

When Paul the Apostle preached in Ephesus, he boldly declared that “gods made with hands are not gods at all” (Acts 19:26). This deeply challenged the religious and economic systems built around idol worship. As people turned to Jesus Christ, the one true God incarnate (John 1:14, Colossians 2:9), they abandoned their former religious practices, including sorcery and idolatry.

Acts 19:18–20 (NKJV):
“And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds.
Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.
So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.”

This mass repentance shows the power of the Gospel to confront and dismantle spiritual strongholds both religious and economic.

The Power of the Gospel

Paul was never intimidated by pagan culture, demonic power, or economic systems tied to sin. His confidence came from knowing the power of the Gospel of Christ.

Romans 1:16 (NKJV):
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.”

The Greek word for “power” here is dunamis, from which we get the word dynamite. The Gospel doesn’t merely inform it transforms.

Spiritual Warfare and Idolatry

Idol worship is not just a cultural issue but a spiritual warfare issue. Paul explains that behind idols are spiritual strongholds that must be torn down through the truth of the Word of God.

2 Corinthians 10:4–6 (NKJV):
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

The Gospel not only saves the soul but renews the mind (Romans 12:2) and breaks the spiritual bondage caused by idolatry and deception.

Modern Relevance: The Gospel Still Conquers Idolatry

Though Artemis is no longer worshiped today, modern forms of idolatry persist money, fame, materialism, and false spirituality. Yet the power of God in Christ still breaks chains.

As believers, we must never be ashamed of the Gospel or intimidated by the cultural norms around us. Christ is still calling His people to come out of Babylon (Revelation 18:4) to separate from false worship and walk in truth.

Maranatha The Lord is Coming!

Let us continue proclaiming the Gospel with boldness, knowing it is God’s power to save and transform lives.

1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NKJV):
“For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”

Maranatha  “Our Lord comes!” (1 Corinthians 16:22)

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THE EYE IS THE LAMP OF THE BODY

Welcome to our Bible study.

Matthew 6:22–23 (ESV)
“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light;
but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”

Jesus uses a vivid metaphor here: the eye, as a physical organ that receives light and enables sight, is likened to the inner moral and spiritual perception of a person. Just as a faulty eye leads to physical darkness, a corrupt inner life leads to spiritual blindness and confusion.

1. THE FUNCTION OF THE EYE AND SPIRITUAL PARALLELS

In the physical realm, the eye receives light and makes vision possible. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, our “inner eye” our conscience, moral clarity, and spiritual discernment receives and processes truth. When this spiritual eye is healthy (clear, focused, and God aligned), it enables us to walk in God’s light.

Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

The Word of God is the primary source of spiritual light. It guides, convicts, and clarifies. When we allow Scripture to shape our worldview, our spiritual vision is sharpened.

2. GOOD WORKS AS LIGHT: OUR LIFE AS A TESTIMONY

Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Here, Jesus equates light with visible actions our good works. These are not works for self glory, but expressions of a transformed life that point others to God. When our hearts are aligned with God’s will, our actions reflect His character love, justice, mercy, and truth.

Theologically, good works are the fruit of salvation, not its foundation. We are saved by grace through faith, and for good works:

Ephesians 2:8–10 (ESV)
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God… For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

Good works become a means by which the light of Christ shines through us, guiding not only ourselves but those around us.

3. SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS: A DANGEROUS CONDITION

Spiritual blindness is a repeated theme in Jesus’ teaching. It signifies a hardened heart, moral confusion, or self righteousness that leads people away from truth.

Matthew 15:14 (NIV)
“Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.”

This was spoken in reference to religious leaders who, though outwardly pious, were inwardly corrupt. Their traditions nullified God’s Word, and their hearts were far from Him (see Matthew 15:8–9). They could not perceive spiritual truths because their “eye” was diseased.

Paul also speaks of this blindness:

2 Corinthians 4:4 (ESV)
“In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel…”

4. HOW TO RECEIVE SPIRITUAL LIGHT

Restoring spiritual sight and clarity begins with repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. No amount of moral effort can cleanse the soul apart from grace.

1 John 1:7 (NKJV)
“But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

This cleansing opens our spiritual eyes, allowing the Holy Spirit to dwell in us, guide us, and empower us to walk in righteousness.

Acts 2:38 (ESV)
“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

The Holy Spirit becomes our internal light source:

John 16:13 (NIV)
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth…”

With the Spirit, believers gain discernment (Hebrews 5:14), wisdom (James 1:5), and the ability to walk in the light rather than stumble in darkness.

5. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

The call of Christ is simple yet profound: let the light that God has placed in you shine out through your words, choices, and behavior. Be a reflection of His grace and truth in a world that desperately needs it.

Philippians 2:15 (NIV)
“…so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”

Let your light shine not to impress others, but to illuminate the path to Christ.

The health of your spiritual eye determines the direction of your life. A life aligned with Christ will be full of light clarity, peace, and purpose. But a life in rebellion, or guided by sin and self, is like walking in total darkness.

So let your spiritual eyes be healed. Let your good works testify to the transforming power of the gospel. Walk in the light and shine for the glory of God.

May the Lord bless you and open your eyes to His truth.

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What Does the Bible Say About Jealousy? Are There Different Types of Jealousy? And Is It a Sin to Feel Jealous?

In Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV), jealousy is listed among the “acts of the flesh,” which are sinful behaviors:

“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.”

This passage clearly identifies jealousy as sinful when it springs from the flesh and leads to destructive behavior. But to understand the biblical concept fully, it’s important to recognize there are two main types of jealousy mentioned in Scripture: Godly jealousy and worldly jealousy.

1. Worldly Jealousy

Worldly jealousy is rooted in selfishness and pride. It manifests as envy, bitterness, and sometimes even violence. It’s closely related to the “works of the flesh” Paul describes in Galatians, which are opposed to the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16-25).

  • Cain’s jealousy of Abel is a classic biblical example (Genesis 4:3-8, KJV): Cain’s jealousy turned into murderous rage because he envied that God accepted Abel’s offering but not his own. Rather than seeking to improve himself, Cain’s jealousy led him to sin gravely.
  • This kind of jealousy produces discord, strife, and ultimately separation from God (Galatians 5:20-21).

2. Godly Jealousy

Godly jealousy, or “zeal,” is righteous and protective, rooted in love and a desire for holiness. It is sometimes called “holy jealousy” or “zeal for God.”

God Himself is described as a jealous God in Exodus 34:14 (NIV):

“Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”

This jealousy is about protecting His covenant relationship with His people from idolatry and unfaithfulness.

  • Jesus displayed godly jealousy when He cleansed the temple (John 2:13-17, NIV). He overturned the money changers’ tables because they were defiling the house of God. His zeal was for the purity of worship, not personal vengeance.
  • The Apostle Paul also exemplified godly jealousy for his people. He longed for Israel to turn back to God and used godly jealousy as motivation:

Romans 11:14 (NIV):
“I am trying to arouse my own people to envy and save some of them.”

Here, jealousy is used as a tool to provoke repentance and awakening.

3. Jealousy in Human Relationships

  • Within marriage and family, jealousy can be protective and natural, reflecting a desire for faithfulness and respect.
  • For example, the Bible metaphorically describes marriage as a relationship that should be free from unfaithfulness and calls the church to be the pure bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2).
  • However, jealousy that leads to harmful behaviors such as violence, control, or bitterness is sinful and destructive.

4. Is It a Sin to Feel Jealous?

  • Feeling jealous is not necessarily a sin in itself. Jealousy becomes sinful when it leads to bitterness, hatred, resentment, or harmful actions.
  • James 4:1-3 (NIV) explains that conflicts and fights arise from desires that battle within us. The desire to have what others have, taken to an extreme, produces sin.
  • Therefore, jealousy that inspires us to improve ourselves without wishing harm on others can be seen as acceptable, or even positive. But jealousy that corrupts our heart and actions is sinful.

5. How to Overcome Sinful Jealousy?

  • Sinful jealousy is a manifestation of the flesh, and no one can overcome it by willpower alone.
  • The solution lies in the power of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25). When we walk by the Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self control replaces the works of the flesh.
  • Jesus came to free us from the bondage of sin, including sinful jealousy (John 8:36).
  • Through repentance, submission to God, and filling with the Holy Spirit, believers can transform jealousy into godly zeal and healthy ambition.

Summary

  • Worldly jealousy is sinful and leads to destructive behavior.
  • Godly jealousy is a holy passion for righteousness and protection of God’s covenant and relationships.
  • Feeling jealous is not automatically sin, but what matters is how you respond to that feeling.
  • Overcoming sinful jealousy requires the power of the Holy Spirit.

If you struggle with jealousy or want to learn more about the Holy Spirit’s role in your life, I’d be glad to share further teaching.

May God bless you richly.

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Why Were Fish Without Fins and Scales Forbidden to Be Eaten?

Leviticus 11:9–12 (NIV)
9 “Of all the creatures living in the water of the seas and the streams you may eat any that have fins and scales.
10 But all creatures in the seas or streams that do not have fins and scales whether among all the swarming things or among all the other living creatures in the water you are to regard as unclean.
11 And since you are to regard them as unclean, you must not eat their meat; you must regard their carcasses as unclean.
12 Anything living in the water that does not have fins and scales is to be regarded as unclean by you.”

Under the Mosaic Law, dietary restrictions were part of God’s way of setting the people of Israel apart from the surrounding nations (see Leviticus 20:25–26). Clean and unclean animals symbolized purity and impurity teaching Israel how to discern between what was acceptable and unacceptable before God.

Fish with both fins and scales were considered clean because these physical traits enabled effective movement and protection. Spiritually, these features symbolize essential virtues of the believer: readiness and righteousness.

1. Fins: Symbol of Readiness and Direction

Fins enable fish to move swiftly, change direction, and navigate difficult currents. Spiritually, they represent mobility and purpose the believer’s readiness to live and move according to God’s will.

Ephesians 6:15 (NIV)
“…and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

In Paul’s description of the armor of God, spiritual readiness is pictured as footwear equipping believers to move forward, share the gospel, and stand firm. A Christian without “fins” is stagnant and aimless, much like a fish unable to swim.

We are not called to spiritual laziness or passivity but to mission and movement. The gospel calls us to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Without spiritual fins, we are unequipped for this calling.

2. Scales: Symbol of Protection and Righteousness

Scales protect fish from injury, parasites, and predators. In a spiritual sense, they represent the righteousness and covering of God, shielding believers from attacks by the enemy.

Ephesians 6:14–17 (NIV)
14 “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place…
16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Without spiritual “scales” the righteousness of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21) we are exposed to the enemy’s deception, condemnation, and temptation.

Job 41:13–17 (NIV), describing the Leviathan (a powerful, armor-like creature), further illustrates this idea:

13 “Who can strip off its outer coat?
Who can penetrate its double coat of armor?
14 Who dares open the doors of its mouth,
ringed with fearsome teeth?
15 Its back has rows of shields
tightly sealed together;
16 each is so close to the next
that no air can pass between.
17 They are joined fast to one another;
they cling together and cannot be parted.”

Just as Leviathan’s scales cannot be penetrated, so too must the believer be fully clothed in the impenetrable righteousness of Christ.

3. The New Covenant Fulfillment

While Christians are no longer under Old Testament dietary laws (Romans 14:14, Colossians 2:16–17), these regulations still carry spiritual symbolism. The dietary laws pointed forward to moral and spiritual purity fulfilled in Christ, who cleanses us from sin and calls us to live holy lives.

Romans 14:17 (NIV)
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit…”

The prohibition on eating fish without fins and scales is no longer a binding legal requirement, but it remains a powerful metaphor for Christian living. It reminds us to pursue a life of spiritual discipline, moral integrity, and gospel readiness.

4. The Final Separation

Jesus uses the imagery of fishing to describe the coming judgment:

Matthew 13:47–49 (NIV)
47 “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish.
48 When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away.
49 This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous.”

On the last day, God will separate the righteous from the wicked just as fishermen sort good fish from bad. Let us not be like the “unclean fish” that are cast away.

Be Spiritually Clean

Though we’re no longer under the ceremonial laws of Leviticus, the principles remain true:

  • Have fins: Walk in purpose, readiness, and mission.
  • Have scales: Clothe yourself with the righteousness of Christ and protect your spiritual life.

Romans 13:12 (NIV)
“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

Let us not live as spiritually unclean or unprepared believers. Let us be strong, purposeful, and protected ready for the day we are drawn into the final net of God’s kingdom.

Shalom.

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What Does the Name “Adam” Mean?

The name Adam comes from the Hebrew word ‘adamah’ (אֲדָמָה), meaning ground or earth. This name reflects humanity’s earthly origin, as God formed the first man from the dust of the ground.

Genesis 2:7 (NIV)  “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.”

This act signifies two crucial truths:

  1. Man’s physical origin is from the earth.
  2. Life itself is a gift from God, imparted through His breath (Hebrew: ruach, meaning breath, spirit, or wind).

A Shared Name for Man and Woman

Surprisingly to some, the name “Adam” wasn’t exclusive to the first man. It was a shared name for both the man and the woman when God created them.

Genesis 5:1–2 (ESV)  “This is the book of the generations of Adam. When God created man, he made him in the likeness of God. Male and female he created them, and he blessed them and named them Man [Hebrew: Adam] when they were created.”

Here, “Adam” is used in a collective sense, representing all humankind. Theologically, this points to the unity and equality of man and woman in bearing God’s image (Imago Dei), and in being recipients of His blessing and purpose (Genesis 1:26–28).

The Legacy of Adam: Mortality and the Need for Redemption

All human beings born after Adam are considered his descendants “sons of Adam” and inherit both his earthly nature and his fallen condition due to sin (Romans 5:12). This explains why death and decay are universal human experiences.

Genesis 3:19 (NIV)  “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.”

This mortality is not just physical it is spiritual. Through Adam, sin entered the world, bringing separation from God. But through Christ the “Second Adam” a new kind of life is made possible.

1 Corinthians 15:22 (ESV)  “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.”

A New Body, A New Identity

For those who belong to Christ, there is a promised transformation. At the resurrection, we will receive heavenly bodies no longer limited by earthly weakness or corrupted by sin.

1 Corinthians 15:47–49 (NIV)  “The first man was of the dust of the earth; the second man is of heaven. As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven. And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man.”

Jesus confirms that the resurrected life is radically different. There will be no marriage, no procreation, no earthly desires. We will be like the angels holy and eternal.

Mark 12:25 (NIV)  “When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.”

Do You Have the Hope of a Heavenly Body?

This hope isn’t automatic. Scripture teaches that this transformation is only for those who are in Christ those who have believed the Gospel, repented of sin, and are living in obedience to Him.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)  “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Philippians 3:20–21 (ESV)  “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body…”

Do you have this hope? Are you living with the assurance that your earthly body will one day be exchanged for a glorified one?

That hope is found only in Jesus Christ the second and greater Adam who not only restores what was lost but also grants us eternal life with God.

Romans 6:23 (NIV)  “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

May the Lord bless you and lead you into the fullness of His truth and hope.

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SEEK WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING, AND DISCERNMENT

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Word of God together.

Proverbs 2:10–11 (ESV)

“For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you.”

There are four essential qualities that every believer should desire and cultivate in their walk with God:

  1. Wisdom – the God-given ability to make sound judgments and discern right from wrong.

  2. Knowledge – the understanding of divine truth and practical information rooted in God’s Word.

  3. Understanding – the deep comprehension of spiritual matters and the ability to apply them appropriately.

  4. Discernment (Discretion) – the foresight to recognize danger, avoid temptation, and choose the path of righteousness (cf. Proverbs 27:12, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty” NIV).

These four virtues do not originate from human intelligence or education but come from God alone:

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Let us now consider three significant spiritual benefits of receiving wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and discernment.

1. Deliverance from the Path of Evil

The first benefit is spiritual protection from wickedness and corrupt influences.

Proverbs 2:12–15 (ESV)

“Delivering you from the way of evil, from men of perverted speech,
who forsake the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness,
who rejoice in doing evil and delight in the perverseness of evil,
men whose paths are crooked, and who are devious in their ways.”

Evil paths are those that lead people into sin and rebellion against God. These include the moral and spiritual corruptions listed in Galatians 5:19–21:

“…sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these…” (ESV)

Such behaviors result from a lack of divine wisdom and spiritual discernment. The Holy Spirit, through God’s Word, equips the believer to resist these temptations and remain on the path of righteousness.

2. Protection from Sexual Immorality

Another benefit is deliverance from the snare of sexual sin, which is one of the most common and destructive traps.

Proverbs 2:16–19 (NIV)

“Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words,
who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God.
Surely her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead.
None who go to her return or attain the paths of life.”

In biblical terms, the “adulterous woman” represents anyone—male or female—who engages in sexual immorality. This includes adultery, fornication, and any sexual behavior outside the bounds of biblical marriage.

Consider Joseph in Genesis 39. When Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him, Joseph fled, saying:

“How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9, ESV)

Joseph’s response was the fruit of godly wisdom and fear of the Lord. Had he lacked discernment and understanding, he could have easily fallen into sin, jeopardizing both his calling and his relationship with God.

Proverbs 6:32 (ESV) affirms this:

“He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.”

Wisdom and the fear of the Lord are safeguards against moral failure.

3. Guidance Toward the Path of the Righteous

God’s wisdom not only protects us from sin but also guides us into a life of righteousness among godly people.

Proverbs 2:20–22 (ESV)

“So you will walk in the way of the good and keep to the paths of the righteous.
For the upright will inhabit the land, and those with integrity will remain in it,
but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the treacherous will be rooted out of it.”

The path of the righteous is distinct and intentional. It is not found by accident, but by divine guidance. The Holy Spirit uses wisdom and understanding to lead us into fellowship with those who live godly lives and to keep us rooted in the truth of God’s Word.

Psalm 1 paints a similar picture:

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked… but his delight is in the law of the Lord” (Psalm 1:1–2, ESV).

To find and stay on this path, we need the kind of wisdom that only comes from God.

How Then Can One Receive Wisdom, Knowledge, Understanding, and Discernment?

The answer is found in Job 28:20–28, where Job contemplates the value and source of wisdom:

Job 28:28 (ESV)

“And he said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”

Wisdom is not merely intellectual—it is spiritual. It begins with the fear of the Lord, which is reverent awe, submission, and obedience to God’s will. Turning away from evil is the practical expression of true understanding.

If you desire to grow in wisdom:

  • Study the Word of God diligently

  • Fellowship with other believers

  • Commit to prayer, worship, and evangelism

  • Practice obedience to God’s commands

These spiritual disciplines position you to receive the fullness of God’s wisdom.

Maranatha!
Come, Lord Jesus!
Let us continue to walk in the light of His truth.

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Why Did Noah Curse Canaan Instead of His Son Ham, Who Was the One at Fault?

ANSWER:

This question often arises when reading Genesis 9:20–25, which records a puzzling episode in the life of Noah after the flood. The passage reads:

“Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard. When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent. Ham, the father of Canaan, saw his father naked and told his two brothers outside. But Shem and Japheth took a garment and laid it across their shoulders; then they walked in backward and covered their father’s naked body. Their faces were turned the other way so that they would not see their father naked. When Noah awoke from his wine and found out what his youngest son had done to him, he said, ‘Cursed be Canaan! The lowest of slaves will he be to his brothers.’”
— Genesis 9:20–25, NIV

From the text, we learn that Ham saw his father’s nakedness and exposed his shame by telling his brothers. In contrast, Shem and Japheth acted respectfully, covering their father without looking at him. When Noah awoke and discovered what had happened, he pronounced a curse—not on Ham, the one who committed the offense—but on Canaan, Ham’s son. This naturally raises a theological question: Why was Canaan cursed instead of Ham?

Possible Explanations:

  1. Ham Had Already Been Blessed by God
    According to Genesis 9:1, God had already blessed Noah and his sons after the flood:

    “Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth.'”

    Since Ham had received God’s blessing, it may have been spiritually inappropriate for Noah to curse someone whom God had blessed. As a result, the curse was redirected to Ham’s son, Canaan. This illustrates the principle that divine blessings are irrevocable (cf. Romans 11:29), and perhaps Noah, recognizing that, pronounced judgment where it could legally or spiritually apply.

  2. Prophetic Foreshadowing of the Canaanites’ Future
    Some biblical scholars argue that Noah’s curse was prophetic in nature. Moses, the author of Genesis, was leading the Israelites toward the Promised Land, which was inhabited by Canaan’s descendants—the Canaanites. These people later became notorious for their idolatry, sexual immorality, and child sacrifice (cf. Leviticus 18:24–25). Thus, Noah’s words can be seen as a divinely inspired prophecy foretelling the downfall and subjugation of the Canaanites at the hands of Israel (cf. Deuteronomy 7:1–2).

  3. Canaan as Representative of a Corrupt Lineage
    Although the text doesn’t say Canaan was present at the incident, some Jewish traditions and early commentators suggest that Canaan may have been involved or that Noah foresaw in him a legacy of corruption. In the ancient biblical worldview, a parent’s character and actions were believed to shape the destiny of their descendants (cf. Exodus 20:5). Thus, the curse on Canaan may reflect the principle of generational consequences tied to moral failure.

  4. Literary Emphasis and Intentional Highlighting
    The text deliberately emphasizes that Ham was “the father of Canaan” (repeated in verses 18 and 22), suggesting that Moses wanted readers to connect Ham’s sin with the moral downfall of the Canaanite peoples. This supports the view that Canaan’s name was singled out not randomly, but as part of a larger theological narrative—one that would be fulfilled centuries later during Israel’s conquest of Canaan.

  5. The Role of Honor and Shame in the Ancient World
    In ancient Near Eastern culture, honor and shame were central values. Ham’s act was not merely a passive mistake; it was an active dishonoring of his father, possibly mocking or gossiping about Noah’s vulnerability. In contrast, Shem and Japheth showed respect and discretion. Noah’s curse may have therefore extended to Ham’s legacy—through Canaan—as a reflection of how deeply dishonor can impact future generations.

Conclusion:

Noah’s curse on Canaan, though initially perplexing, aligns with broader biblical themes of generational responsibility, prophetic judgment, and divine sovereignty. It reveals how sin, especially dishonor and disrespect, can carry long-term consequences. The incident also sets the stage for understanding why the Canaanites later came under God’s judgment through Israel. Canaan’s curse was not merely personal—it was historical and theological, pointing to future events in redemptive history.

Shalom.

 

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SPIRITUAL COURAGE DOES NOT DEPEND ON EXPERIENCE

Grace and peace to you in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I warmly welcome you to reflect on the life-giving Word of God today.

Let us consider the nature of spiritual courage—a kind of bravery that does not depend on human experience, training, or status. Too often, we assume that only the experienced or the learned can be used mightily by God. But Scripture shows us a different reality.

A Nation in Crisis

In 2 Kings 6, the people of Israel faced an unimaginable crisis. The city of Samaria was under siege by the Aramean army (also known as the Syrians), and the siege caused a severe famine. The situation became so dire that people resorted to eating unclean things—even resorting to cannibalism (2 Kings 6:28–29). Dove dung was sold at a premium as food. The most trained warriors, overwhelmed by fear and hopelessness, stayed hidden within the city walls, unwilling to act.

Yet at this lowest point, God spoke through His prophet Elisha, declaring a sudden and supernatural breakthrough:

“Hear the word of the Lord. This is what the Lord says: About this time tomorrow, a seah of the finest flour will sell for a shekel and two seahs of barley for a shekel at the gate of Samaria.”
—2 Kings 7:1 (NIV)

This prophecy was shocking. The king’s officer scoffed, saying, “Even if the Lord opened the floodgates of the heavens, could this happen?” (v. 2). His doubt reflected a common human error: judging divine possibilities by human limitations. But Elisha replied with sobering certainty: “You will see it with your own eyes, but you will not eat any of it.”

The Leprous Outsiders

Enter the most unlikely heroes: four lepers—outcasts, weak, rejected by society, and positioned outside the city gate. According to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 13), lepers were to be quarantined to prevent defiling the camp. These men were sick, starving, and alone. Yet in their desperation, they made a decision that would change the fate of a nation.

“Why stay here until we die? If we go into the city, the famine is there, and we will die. If we stay here, we will die. So let’s go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.”
—2 Kings 7:3–4 (NIV)

This was not only a practical decision—it was a step of faith. With no strength, weapons, or social value, they moved forward. And heaven moved with them.

God’s Power Behind the Scenes

As the lepers approached the Aramean camp at dawn, they found it deserted. Unknown to them, the Lord had caused the enemy to hear a supernatural sound:

“For the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots and horses and a great army, so that they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired the Hittite and Egyptian kings to attack us!’ So they got up and fled in the dusk and abandoned their tents and their horses and donkeys. They left the camp as it was and ran for their lives.”
—2 Kings 7:6–7 (NIV)

The miracle was not in the strength of the lepers, but in the power of God who fought Israel’s battle. These four lepers—despised and broken—were used by God as vessels of deliverance. They gathered food, silver, and gold, and eventually reported the good news to the city (vv. 8–10). Because of their obedience, the prophecy was fulfilled exactly as God had said.

What Can We Learn?

  1. God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). He often uses the unlikely, the unqualified, and the broken to accomplish His divine purposes.

  2. Spiritual courage is not rooted in personal ability but in trusting God. The lepers had no credentials—only the willingness to move forward in faith.

  3. Fear paralyzes, but faith acts. While trained soldiers remained inactive, these outcasts stepped out. Faith in action brings breakthrough.

  4. Don’t wait to feel “ready” before you serve God. Whether you got saved today or decades ago, the Holy Spirit empowers you. Just as God used David—a shepherd boy with no military experience—to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17), He can use you, too.

  5. The Gospel must be shared. After experiencing God’s provision, the lepers said, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves” (2 Kings 7:9). Likewise, we must share the good news of salvation with a world in crisis.

Final Encouragement

You may feel unqualified, inexperienced, or too broken to serve. But remember: in the spiritual realm, God sees your faith, not your résumé. Your step of faith can shake the enemy’s camp. You may look like just one person—but in God’s eyes, you may be the answer to someone’s deliverance.

So rise up. Use the gifts God has given you. Speak the truth. Share the gospel. Serve boldly. Don’t underestimate what God can do through you. When you move in faith, heaven moves with you—and the enemy flees.

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty.
—Zechariah 4:6 (NIV)

God bless you.

Shalom.

 

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NO ONE WAS ALLOWED TO CARRY ANY VESSEL THROUGH THE TEMPLE

Welcome to today’s Bible study.

Today, we’re going to explore a practice that was taking place in the Temple of God—one that was displeasing to the Lord and that He decisively rebuked.

Let’s read:

Mark 11:15–16 (ESV)
“And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons.
And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple.”

This passage is well-known as the account where Jesus drove out those who were buying and selling in the Temple. But often overlooked is verse 16—Jesus also prohibited anyone from carrying any kind of object or vessel through the Temple courts.

What does this mean?

The “vessels” mentioned here were not sacred items belonging to the Temple. People were not stealing or moving Temple equipment. Rather, they were using the Temple grounds as a shortcut, carrying baskets, containers, tools—ordinary items used in daily life or trade.

Historically, the Temple in Jerusalem was constructed between two strategic areas:

  • On one side was Bethesda, a major sheep market.

  • On the other side was the Upper City, where many people lived and worked.

To save time, people began using the Temple courtyards as a pass-through route, going from the Upper City to the markets in Bethesda. In doing so, they treated the holy space like a public street. They carried merchandise, food, furniture, and even gambling tables through the Temple—completely disregarding its sanctity.

Over time, the Temple became polluted with all kinds of traffic:

  • Merchants looking for a faster path to market.

  • Thieves blending in with the crowds.

  • Gossipers and idlers using the Temple as a hangout.

  • People with impure motives walking through on their way to schemes.

This kind of irreverent activity deeply offended the Lord. Jesus didn’t just rebuke the merchants; He also shut down the flow of people misusing the Temple space. He stood guard at the entrances and stopped anyone from carrying vessels through the Temple.

In the same way, today we often see churches treated without reverence:

  • People walk in and out aimlessly, without focus or intention to worship.

  • Vendors sometimes set up near the sanctuary, selling snacks, shoes, or other products.

  • Children turn the worship space into a playground.

  • Some enter the church not to meet God, but to conduct business, make social connections, or promote personal agendas.

The House of God must be treated as holy ground.

Malachi 1:6 (ESV) says,
“‘A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear?’ says the Lord of hosts to you…”

Just as we protect and honor our own homes—ensuring guests behave respectfully—how much more should we treat the Lord’s house with reverence?

But the Temple of God is not just a building. Scripture also tells us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit:

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (ESV)
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

This means that our bodies are not to be used for anything unholy. They are not vessels for sin, impurity, or casual indulgence. Just as Jesus cleansed the physical Temple, He desires to cleanse our inner temples—our hearts, minds, and bodies—from all that is profane.

1 Corinthians 6:15–18 (ESV) adds:
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never!
Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh.’
But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”

So just as Jesus would not allow the Temple to be treated as a mere passageway or place for unclean activity, we must not allow our bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit, to become pathways for sin. We must honor God both in His house and in ourselves.

Let us be vigilant in maintaining the sanctity of the physical places of worship—and even more, the holiness of our own lives.

Respect the house of God. Respect your body, the temple of the Spirit.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Amen.

 

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