Which Holy City Did Satan Take Jesus To?
In Matthew 4:5–7 (ESV), we read:
“Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,
“He will command his angels concerning you,” and “On their hands they will bear you up,
lest you strike your foot against a stone.”’
Jesus said to him, ‘Again it is written, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”’”
1. What Is the Holy City Referred To?
The “holy city” mentioned here is Jerusalem—not the Heavenly Jerusalem described in Revelation, but the earthly Jerusalem located in Israel. Though it is called “holy” due to its covenantal and prophetic significance in the history of God’s people (e.g., Psalm 48:1-2), it is still part of the current fallen world. Therefore, Satan is not barred from accessing it.
Theological Note:
The term “holy” (Greek: hagios) in this context refers to the city’s religious identity, not its moral or spiritual perfection. Earthly Jerusalem has been both the site of divine worship and of rebellion (Isaiah 1:21). Thus, Satan’s presence there is not contradictory to scripture.
2. Why Would Satan Bring Jesus to the Temple?
Satan led Jesus to the pinnacle of the Temple, likely the southeastern corner overlooking the Kidron Valley—a dizzying height—hoping to tempt Jesus to test God’s protection by performing a dramatic leap.
Satan even quotes scripture, Psalm 91:11–12 (ESV):
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”
But he misuses the verse, removing it from its context. Psalm 91 is a psalm of trust, not a license for testing God.
Jesus answers with Scripture properly interpreted:
Deuteronomy 6:16 (ESV):
“You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Theological Insight:
Satan often tempts not by denying God’s Word but by distorting it—a tactic seen as early as Genesis 3:1–5. Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1), counters temptation not by personal strength but by submitting to the truth of God’s Word—an example for all believers.
3. Lessons for Believers Today
Satan’s strategy here teaches us something important:
He doesn’t always tempt us in dark, obvious places—but often in holy ones.
In fact, he brought Jesus to the Temple, not a brothel or a pagan temple. Today, many believers fall not in the streets but in the pews—through pride, division, lust, and deception that arise within the church.
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV) warns:
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
That’s why we sometimes hear of pastors, ministers, or worship leaders falling into sin—often with other church members, not strangers. Satan knows that temptation is most effective when it comes in disguised holiness.
This reflects Paul’s warning in 2 Corinthians 11:14–15 (ESV):
“Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.”
4. What About the New Jerusalem?
Some may wonder if Satan could ever access the Heavenly Jerusalem. The answer is a firm no.
Revelation 21:2–3, 23–27 (ESV) describes the New Jerusalem as a holy city that will descend from heaven after the final judgment:
“Nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (v. 27)
This city is holy in both name and nature—no sin, no darkness, no devil will ever enter. It represents the eternal dwelling of God with His redeemed people.
Conclusion: Stay Watchful in Holy Places
Jesus didn’t fall into Satan’s trap because He stood firm on the Word of God. For us, the danger is real—temptation doesn’t always look evil, and the church is not exempt from spiritual attacks.
We must be especially discerning within sacred spaces, just as Jesus was in the Temple.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
— James 4:7 (ESV)
May we remain rooted in scripture, filled with the Holy Spirit, and aware that Satan’s strategy often begins where we feel safest.
May the Lord help us to stand firm. Shalom.
Who Was Philip—and How Many Philips Are Mentioned in the Bible?
The name Philip appears several times in the Bible, referring to four different individuals. Although they shared the same name, their roles, character, and relationships with God were very different. Let’s explore each of them, along with what we can learn theologically from their lives.
1. Philip the Apostle – A Disciple Called to Follow Christ
Philip the Apostle was one of the original twelve disciples of Jesus. He is introduced in John 1:43-44:
“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida.” (John 1:43–44, NIV)
As a disciple, Philip witnessed the miracles and teachings of Christ firsthand. In John 6:5–7, we see his practical nature when Jesus tests his faith during the feeding of the 5,000. And in John 14:8-9, Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, prompting Jesus’ profound declaration that “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
Theological Insight: Philip’s story reminds us of the discipleship journey—from being called, to learning, to eventually testifying. It shows that even those close to Jesus needed spiritual growth and deeper understanding.
2. Philip the Evangelist (One of the Seven Deacons)
This Philip is first mentioned in Acts 6:1-6, when the early church selects seven Spirit-filled men to manage food distribution and practical needs, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the Word.
“They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip…” (Acts 6:5)
Philip later became a powerful evangelist. In Acts 8, he boldly preaches in Samaria and later shares the gospel with the Ethiopian eunuch—a pivotal moment for the global spread of Christianity:
“Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.” (Acts 8:35)
After baptizing the eunuch, the Spirit miraculously carries him to another region to continue his ministry.
Later, we see Philip again in Acts 21:8-9, living in Caesarea with his four unmarried daughters who had the gift of prophecy.
Theological Insight: Philip’s life models Spirit-empowered ministry and missionary zeal. His obedience and faithfulness reflect the early church’s commitment to spreading the gospel beyond Jewish communities. The inclusion of his prophesying daughters affirms that the gifts of the Spirit were actively present in both men and women.
3. Philip the Tetrarch – A Just Ruler but Not a Disciple
This Philip, the son of Herod the Great, ruled the region of Iturea and Traconitis. He is mentioned in Luke 3:1:
“…Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis…”
Though not a believer, historians portray this Philip as a relatively just and moderate ruler. He is credited with building the city of Caesarea Philippi, named in honor of the emperor and himself. This city later became significant in Jesus’ ministry:
“When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’” (Matthew 16:13)
Theological Insight: Even those in secular authority can play roles in God’s redemptive plan. Though Philip the Tetrarch wasn’t a follower of Christ, the city he built became a backdrop for one of Jesus’ most profound declarations of identity.
4. Philip, Husband of Herodias – A Figure in a Moral Crisis
This Philip is also a son of Herod the Great, but he is a different individual from the Tetrarch. He was the first husband of Herodias, who later left him to marry his brother Herod Antipas.
“For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married.” (Mark 6:17)
This immoral act was publicly condemned by John the Baptist, which led to John’s imprisonment and eventual execution.
Theological Insight: This narrative illustrates the cost of prophetic truth. John the Baptist stood for righteousness and paid the ultimate price. It also underscores the corrupt and often immoral nature of Herod’s family rule, in contrast to the holiness God calls us to.
Final Reflection: One Name, Four Lives – What Sets Them Apart?
Though all these men were named Philip, only two were true followers of Christ—the Apostle and the Evangelist. The other two were part of Herod’s politically powerful yet morally compromised dynasty.
Key Lesson: A name does not define one’s character or faith. What matters is not what we are called, but how we respond to the call of God.
“Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and, ‘Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.’” (2 Timothy 2:19)
Conclusion:
The lives of these four Philips teach us about discipleship, evangelism, integrity in leadership, and the dangers of moral compromise. Let us not only bear a good name but also live lives worthy of the gospel we profess.
May the Lord bless and guide you.
Proverbs 29:9 “When a wise person goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and mocks, and there is no peace.”
To simplify: “When a wise person debates with a fool, whether the fool responds in anger or laughter, the outcome is the same—there is no peace or resolution.”
This verse from Proverbs sheds light on the nature of a fool. Theologically, the “fool” in Scripture is not simply someone who is ignorant or unwise, but someone who rejects God’s wisdom. The fool refuses to listen to wisdom, preferring instead to respond with anger or mockery. This person’s reactions are shallow and defensive, never leading to personal growth or change.
For instance, if a wise person presents a point that challenges or hurts the fool, the fool might respond with rage, thinking they have been wronged. You might assume that such a strong emotional response indicates that the person has been touched on a deep level, and that change is possible. However, Proverbs 29:9 assures us that no matter the reaction, whether it is anger or even laughter, the fool remains unchanged. This suggests that mere emotional reactions do not lead to true transformation. The fool’s heart remains hardened.
Likewise, you might expect that if a fool laughs in response to wisdom, it shows a softened heart, perhaps leading to a change in perspective. However, this also leads to no lasting transformation, as laughter often masks deeper resistance. Essentially, a fool is someone who is impervious to change, regardless of the method used to try to reach them.
In essence, Proverbs teaches that a fool cannot be reasoned with through logic or emotion. The response should often be to walk away, as engaging further does not bring peace or resolution.
The True Fool: Theological Insights
In the Bible, the “fool” is more than just someone lacking knowledge or wisdom—there is a deeper, spiritual aspect.
Psalm 14:1 (NIV) says:
“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’”
This is the most profound foolishness: rejecting the very foundation of truth—God Himself. Theologically, a fool is someone who denies the existence of God or lives as though God does not matter in their decisions or actions.
This kind of fool is most clearly illustrated by the scribes and Pharisees during Jesus’ ministry. In Matthew 23:17 (NIV), Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their rejection of God’s truth, saying:
“You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes the gold sacred?”
The Pharisees were so consumed with outward ritual and law that they completely missed the deeper spiritual truths about God. They could not recognize the wisdom of God because their hearts were hardened to the truth.
When you encounter someone who refuses to acknowledge God’s truth, it doesn’t matter how compelling the gospel message is; they are unable to receive it.
1Corinthians 2:14 (NIV) explains that “the person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness.”
This is why arguments with such individuals often end in frustration and division, rather than transformation or understanding.
Jesus’ Teachings: Pearls Before Swine
Jesus Himself taught us in
Matthew 7:6 (NIV):
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
In this verse, Jesus warns His followers not to waste their efforts on those who are unwilling to receive the truth. When you face someone who is only interested in arguing or mocking, it is often best to walk away, rather than continuing to invest time and energy into an unproductive debate. Instead, focus on those who are open to hearing and receiving the truth.
Jesus teaches us that not all people are ready to hear the gospel, and not all individuals are ready to change. Some will remain stubborn, rejecting the message no matter how it is presented. For these people, further discussion can only lead to more conflict.
In conclusion, the wise approach is to discern when a conversation is futile and when it is best to move on, as Proverbs 29:9 suggests. As followers of Christ, we are called to focus on those who are receptive and open to the truth, rather than continuing to engage in endless debates with those who reject it.
May the Lord bless you with wisdom and discernment.
How Did the Lord Jesus Eat Butter and Milk?
(Based on Isaiah 7:14-15, ESV)
Question:
The prophecy in Isaiah says the Lord Jesus would eat butter and milk. How was this prophecy fulfilled?
Answer:
To understand this, we need to explore the meaning of this prophecy and how it relates to Jesus’ life and ministry.
Isaiah 7:14-15 (ESV) says:
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good.”
Here, “curds” (translated also as “butter” or “rich milk products”) and “honey” symbolize nourishment and abundance. Butter comes from milk, and Proverbs 30:33 (ESV) states,
“The stirring of milk produces curds, and stirring violence produces strife.”
This shows that butter (curds) comes directly from milk. Therefore, the phrase “butter and honey” poetically represents “milk and honey,” a biblical symbol of blessing and prosperity.
The Theological Meaning of “Milk and Honey” in Scripture
The phrase “a land flowing with milk and honey” is repeatedly used in the Old Testament to describe the Promised Land — a place of God’s provision, blessing, and abundance.
For example, Numbers 14:8 (ESV) says,
“If the Lord delights in us, then he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey.”
This land was not just materially rich but spiritually significant: it was God’s promise of rest, provision, and blessing for His people. Milk and honey symbolize God’s abundant provision and the sweetness of His covenant blessings.
Jesus’ Journey from Egypt and the Fulfillment of Prophecy
The children of Israel were delivered from Egypt and led into the Promised Land, symbolizing God’s faithfulness to His promises.
Hosea 11:1 (ESV) prophetically refers to Israel as God’s son called out of Egypt:
“When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.”
Matthew 2:14-15 (ESV) shows this prophecy fulfilled in Jesus’ early life:
“So he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son.’”
Just as Israel was called out of Egypt into a land flowing with milk and honey, Jesus was called out of Egypt and later lived in the land of promise.
Living According to God’s Will: Choosing Good and Rejecting Evil
Isaiah 7:15 highlights an important aspect of Jesus’ life:
“He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good.”
This means Jesus, from childhood, distinguished between good and evil and chose to live righteously. His moral perfection qualified Him to fully partake in the blessings of God.
Deuteronomy 6:18 (ESV) commands God’s people:
“And you shall do what is right and good in the sight of the Lord, that it may go well with you…”
God’s promise of blessing (the land flowing with milk and honey) was conditional on obedience and righteousness.
Jesus perfectly fulfilled this requirement. Unlike many Israelites who failed to uphold God’s standards and thus lost blessings, Jesus always chose the good and rejected evil (Hebrews 4:15).
The Spiritual and Physical Blessings of Christ
Though Jesus lived a humble life without earthly wealth (Matthew 8:20), He was rich in spiritual blessings. The “butter and honey” He ate symbolize all the blessings He possessed—both physical sustenance and spiritual richness through the Holy Spirit.
Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 8:9 (ESV):
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.”
Jesus voluntarily embraced poverty on earth, but He was spiritually wealthy—filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1) and empowered to perform miracles that demonstrate the abundance of God’s grace.
Application: Entering Into Christ’s Blessings
By faith in Jesus, we share in His blessings. First, we receive eternal life—the ultimate spiritual blessing (John 3:16). Second, we receive God’s provision and blessings in our earthly lives according to His will (Philippians 4:19).
Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise of a “land flowing with milk and honey” — not only physically but spiritually, through salvation and the Holy Spirit’s empowerment.
Conclusion and Encouragement
The prophecy that Jesus would eat butter and honey is a beautiful symbol of His perfect righteousness and participation in God’s promised blessings. He fully lived in obedience, rejecting evil and choosing good, thereby fulfilling God’s covenant.
Although He lived simply on earth, His spiritual riches are immeasurable. When we receive Jesus, we enter into this same stream of blessings—eternal life and spiritual abundance.
May the Lord richly bless you.
Share this good news with others!
If you want to receive Jesus into your life or get daily teachings via WhatsApp, please contact us:
WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10
Phone: +255693036618 or +255789001312
How old was Mary when she conceived the Lord Jesus?
The Bible does not explicitly state Mary’s age when the angel Gabriel visited her to announce that she would conceive Jesus by the Holy Spirit. Neither does it provide details about her tribe or family lineage. These details are not emphasized in Scripture because they are not essential for our faith or salvation.
What Scripture reveals is that Mary was betrothed to Joseph (see Luke 1:27), which in Jewish culture typically involved young women in their teenage years—often between 12 and 16 years old. Being betrothed meant she was considered legally pledged for marriage, so she was mature enough to understand the significance of Gabriel’s message. Mary is described as “a virgin” (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:27), highlighting her purity and the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception.
Theologically, Mary’s virginity fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah:
Isaiah 7:14 (ESV):
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
This prophecy underscores the divine origin of Jesus, emphasizing that He would be born of a virgin by the power of the Holy Spirit, signifying His unique identity as both fully God and fully man.
It is important to understand that Scripture focuses on Mary’s faith and obedience rather than her age or tribal affiliation. These “secret things” belong to God, as stated in:
Deuteronomy 29:29 (NIV):
“The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.”
Some traditions elevate Mary beyond what Scripture teaches, attributing to her special powers or intercessory roles. However, the Bible presents Mary as a faithful servant of God, chosen for a unique purpose but still fully human and dependent on God’s grace, just like all believers.
Throughout Scripture, many faithful servants of God are honored, but none except Jesus Christ is worthy of worship. For example, Elijah was a man with a nature like ours:
James 5:17 (NIV):
“Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.”
Even though Elijah was taken up to heaven, the Bible makes clear that he was human. Only Jesus is truly divine and the object of our worship because of His unique redemptive work.
Revelation 5:8-9 (ESV):
“And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying,
‘Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.’”
This passage affirms Jesus’ worthiness of worship because He sacrificed Himself to redeem humanity.
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you been baptized in obedience to Him?
If not, today is the time to respond. Scripture warns us that these are the last days, and Jesus is near, ready to come into your life:
Revelation 3:20 (NIV):
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
May God richly bless you!
Please share this good news with others.
If you want free guidance on how to receive Jesus, please contact us at the numbers below.
To receive daily Bible teachings via WhatsApp, join our channel here:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10
Contact numbers: +255693036618 or +255789001312
Understanding Proverbs 27:19 – “As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.” (NIV)
This proverb uses a vivid and relatable image to teach a deep spiritual truth. Just as still water clearly reflects our physical appearance, the heart—or inner life—of a person reflects who they truly are and, by extension, influences those close to them.
Water doesn’t distort; it gives an honest reflection. In the same way, our character is revealed in how we live and in how we influence and are influenced by others. This insight forms the basis for understanding the nature of close relationships, especially in spiritual and moral terms.
The Principle of Reflection in Relationships
When two people walk closely together, whether in friendship, partnership, or marriage, they begin to reflect one another’s values and behaviors. The Bible reinforces this idea in
Amos 3:3 (NIV):
“Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?”
The implication is clear: true unity requires shared values. If two people are walking in different directions spiritually, one will inevitably influence the other. Scripture often warns believers about the risks of close ties with those who do not share their faith.
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV) says:
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This doesn’t mean we isolate ourselves from others, but it does mean we must be discerning about whom we deeply align our hearts and lives with.
A Theological Application: The Influence of the Heart
The heart, in biblical theology, represents the seat of our thoughts, desires, will, and spiritual life
. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) advises:
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
When we share our lives closely with others, especially in covenant relationships like marriage or lifelong friendships, we are allowing their hearts to influence ours—and vice versa.
We see a cautionary example in
1 Kings 11:4 (NIV),
“As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.”
Even the wisest man in Israel was not immune to the power of influence in close relationships.
Conclusion: Choose Fellowship Wisely
Proverbs 27:19 reminds us that our companions are mirrors of our hearts. Over time, we begin to resemble the people we walk closely with. Their habits, beliefs, and attitudes can shape ours.
Therefore, we are called to walk with the wise, to build deep fellowship with those who will reflect Christ in our lives.
Proverbs 13:20 (NIV) affirms this:
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
Shalom
WHO SHOULD WE SEE MOST WHEN WE READ THE BIBLE?
When you open your Bible, who captures your attention the most?
Is it Moses the lawgiver? Elijah the miracle-working prophet? David the warrior-king?
Or perhaps your preaching often focuses on Old Testament heroes and their inspiring deeds?
While these individuals play important roles in redemptive history, none of them are the main subject of the Bible. The Bible is not primarily about people—it is about a Person: Jesus Christ.
If human characters dominate your Bible reading and preaching, there’s a possibility your spiritual understanding is still limited (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:14–16). The Scriptures were written not to glorify men, but to reveal the glory of the Son of God.
Let us consider what the risen Christ Himself said:
Luke 24:25–27 (ESV)
25 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!
26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?”
27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.
Notice: Jesus didn’t start with Moses or Elijah to honor them, but to explain how they were testifying about Him. The Law, the Prophets, and the Writings all point to Christ.
CHRIST: THE CENTRAL FIGURE OF SCRIPTURE
The unity of the Bible revolves around Jesus. From Genesis to Revelation, the storyline unfolds God’s plan of redemption in Christ. Let’s examine how various prophets testified of Him—not just indirectly, but prophetically and clearly.
✦ Moses (the Law) spoke of Christ:
Deuteronomy 18:15 (ESV)
“The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen.”
This is a Messianic prophecy. The “prophet like Moses” is fulfilled in Jesus (cf. Acts 3:22–23). Moses was a type; Jesus is the ultimate Prophet, Deliverer, and Mediator of a new covenant (Hebrews 3:1–6).
✦ Samuel spoke of Christ as the eternal priest:
1 Samuel 2:35 (ESV)
“And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind.”
This looks forward to a greater priest than Eli’s sons—a priest who is eternal. Jesus is that High Priest (cf. Hebrews 7:23–28), who ministers in the true tabernacle.
✦ Isaiah prophesied the Incarnation and Deity of Christ:
Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Jesus is not only the Son given, but also “Mighty God.” This is a clear assertion of Christ’s divinity and kingship.
✦ Micah foretold His birth in Bethlehem:
Micah 5:2 (ESV)
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah… from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
This verse affirms both Christ’s human origin (born in Bethlehem) and His eternal preexistence.
✦ David (Psalms) prophesied Christ’s suffering:
Psalm 22:18 (ESV)
“They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.”
Fulfilled in: Matthew 27:35
“…they divided his garments among them by casting lots.”
Psalm 22 describes the crucifixion in astonishing detail—written 1,000 years before Christ.
✦ Hosea prophesied the calling of God’s Son:
Hosea 11:1 (ESV)
“When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.”
Fulfilled in: Matthew 2:15
“…that what was spoken by the prophet Hosea might be fulfilled, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son.’”
This shows how Israel’s story typologically points to Jesus—the true Israel.
✦ Jeremiah described the mourning in Bethlehem:
Jeremiah 31:15 (ESV)
“A voice is heard in Ramah… Rachel is weeping for her children.”
Fulfilled in: Matthew 2:18, in the slaughter of infants under Herod.
✦ Zechariah predicted the Triumphal Entry:
Zechariah 9:9 (ESV)
“Behold, your king is coming to you… humble and mounted on a donkey.”
Fulfilled in: Matthew 21:5, as Jesus entered Jerusalem.
✦ Daniel saw Christ exalted as the “Son of Man”:
Daniel 7:13–14 (ESV)
“And behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man… his dominion is an everlasting dominion.”
Jesus referred to this passage about Himself repeatedly (cf. Matthew 26:64).
✦ Malachi foresaw the coming of the Lord to His temple:
Malachi 3:1 (ESV)
“The Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple.”
Fulfilled when Jesus cleansed the temple (John 2:13–17).
✦ Jonah prefigured Jesus’ death and resurrection:
Matthew 12:40 (ESV)
“For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”
✦ Ezekiel promised the coming of the Spirit through Christ:
Ezekiel 36:26–27 speaks of a new heart and the Holy Spirit—fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2), made possible through Jesus.
✦ Amos foretold supernatural signs during the crucifixion:
Amos 8:9 (ESV)
“On that day… I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth.”
Fulfilled in: Matthew 27:45
“Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour.”
✦ Joel prophesied the outpouring of the Spirit:
Joel 2:28–32, fulfilled in Acts 2:16–21, after Jesus’ resurrection.
✦ Job longed for the Redeemer:
Job 19:25 (ESV)
“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.”
This is one of the clearest Old Testament affirmations of resurrection hope in Christ.
THEOLOGICAL CONCLUSION:
All the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings testify of Jesus Christ. He is the second Adam, the true Israel, the greater Moses, the perfect High Priest, the Davidic King, the suffering Servant, the glorious Son of Man, and the resurrected Lord.
John 5:39 (ESV)
“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.”
Until we see Christ as the central message of Scripture, we are reading the Bible incompletely.
Luke 24:44–45 (ESV)
“Then he said to them… everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled. Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.”
Ephesians 4:13 (ESV)
“…until we all attain… the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”
WHAT NEXT?
Let your eyes be opened to see Christ in every page of Scripture. Preach Him. Follow Him. Share Him.
If you would like to receive Jesus Christ into your life or receive daily teachings via WhatsApp, you are welcome to connect:
🔗 Join our WhatsApp Channel
📞 Contact: +255 693 036 618 | +255 789 001 312
Maranatha – The Lord is coming.
What Does the Phrase “Cut Off from His People” Mean? (Leviticus 7:27)
Question:
Why do many Israelites use the phrase “cut off from his people” when someone is seen acting contrary to the Torah? What does this phrase actually mean?
Leviticus 7:27 (ESV):
“If any person eats the blood of any flesh, that person shall be cut off from his people.”
Answer:
The phrase “cut off from his people” is a general expression indicating that the person will be separated from the community of Israel. This separation can take different forms depending on the nature of the offense.
There are three main types of being “cut off”:
1) Death
In some cases, being “cut off” meant the person was to be put to death. This punishment was sometimes carried out by God Himself (Leviticus 20:3–6) and other times by human authorities. For example, anyone caught committing adultery faced the penalty of stoning to death.
Similarly, breaking the Sabbath was a capital offense:
Exodus 31:14 (ESV):
“You shall keep the Sabbath, because it is holy for you. Everyone who profanes it shall be put to death; whoever does any work on it, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.”
This shows how seriously God regarded obedience, especially regarding holy times and commands.
2) Exclusion from the Community
Another form of being “cut off” involved social and religious exclusion. The person was removed from the census of Israel, losing their right to participate in worship and communal activities.
Numbers 19:20 (ESV):
“But the person who is unclean and does not cleanse himself shall be cut off from the assembly; because he has defiled the sanctuary of the LORD, the water of purification has not been sprinkled on him; he shall remain unclean.”
This meant spiritual and social isolation, emphasizing the importance of holiness in the community.
3) Loss of Covenant Blessings
To be “cut off” could also mean losing the blessings of God’s covenant, including protection and promises.
Genesis 17:14 (ESV):
“Any uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin shall be cut off from his people; he has broken my covenant.”
Today, in the New Covenant, similar separation from God’s grace can occur when people persist in sin without repentance. This spiritual cutting off is serious.
Application in the New Testament and Today
-
The church has authority to discipline unrepentant sinners by excluding them from fellowship, as Paul instructs in:
1 Corinthians 5:1–5 (ESV):
Paul instructs the Corinthian church to expel a man living in blatant sin to protect the community’s holiness.
-
God also sometimes enacts judgment directly, as seen in the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Holy Spirit and were struck dead (Acts 5:1–11).
-
Furthermore, Hebrews warns that willful, persistent sin after receiving knowledge of the truth risks a fearful judgment:
Hebrews 10:26–27 (ESV):
“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment…”
Final Thoughts
The concept of being “cut off” was not just for ancient Israel but remains relevant spiritually today. We must not take sin lightly or assume God’s mercy will always hold back His judgment. Being “cut off” means losing fellowship with God and His people, which is a grave spiritual condition.
Let us live in holiness, repent quickly, and remain faithful to God’s covenant.
Shalom.
Please share this important message with others.
