Category Archive home

  • Home   /  
  • Archive by category "home"
    • ( Page88 )

WHICH JESUS HAVE YOU RECEIVED? WHICH SPIRIT? WHICH GOSPEL?

Blessed be the name of the Lord Jesus. Welcome as we reflect on the Scriptures.

2 Corinthians 11:4 (ESV) says:
“For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough.”

When Paul wrote these words, he was not praising the Corinthian believers for their tolerance. On the contrary—he was rebuking them. His tone was one of concern and alarm. He was saying, “You’re too willing to tolerate false teachers and false teachings!”

To put it plainly: Paul was warning them not to accept anyone who came preaching a distorted Christ, operating by a counterfeit spirit, or proclaiming a corrupted gospel. The Corinthians were tolerating these things rather than rejecting them—and that was spiritually dangerous.

This warning is just as urgent today as it was then. There are still “other Jesuses,” “other spirits,” and “other gospels” being preached in the world—and even in churches.

Who is this “other Jesus”?

The true Jesus of Scripture declared:
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6 (ESV)

But the “other Jesus” says: “There are many ways to God—through other saints, through religious traditions, or through various world religions.” This is not the Jesus of the Bible—it is a deception.

The true Jesus said:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24 (ESV)
And again:
“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” – Mark 8:36 (ESV)

But the “other Jesus” says: “You don’t have to deny yourself. You can keep your sinful habits. God looks at your heart, not your outward life.” This false Jesus demands no repentance, no obedience, and no transformation—and that is not the Jesus who saves.

This is why Paul warned the Corinthians: Don’t accept a false Christ. It is not a small error—it is a doorway to spiritual ruin. As Jesus warned:
“For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.” – Matthew 24:24 (ESV)

What about the “other spirit”?

The true Holy Spirit is the Spirit of holiness. As His name implies, His work is to sanctify—to set us apart from sin and make us more like Christ.

Jesus said of the Holy Spirit:
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” – John 16:13 (ESV)

And Paul says:
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16 (ESV)

Yet many today are influenced by another spirit—not the Holy Spirit. This counterfeit spirit does not lead to holiness but to compromise. It does not convict of sin but excuses it. It does not lead to truth but to confusion. Under its influence, people indulge in immorality, embrace worldly fashion that dishonors God, harbor bitterness, and ignore Scripture. These are not the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23)—they are works of the flesh.

Beware of spirits that masquerade as holy but produce no evidence of sanctification. 1 John 4:1 (ESV) warns:
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.”

And what of the “other gospel”?

The word gospel means “good news”—specifically, the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul wrote:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” – Romans 1:16 (ESV)

The true gospel calls us to repentance, faith in Christ, and a life of obedience. It delivers us from sin and the coming judgment.

But the “other gospel” makes no such demands. It tells people what they want to hear, not what they need to hear. It tolerates unforgiveness, vengeance, and bitterness. It encourages believers to “pray against” their enemies rather than forgive them—contrary to what Christ taught:

“But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” – Matthew 6:15 (ESV)

A gospel that justifies hatred, resentment, and spiritual pride is no gospel at all—it is a message from hell, not from heaven.

Sadly, many churchgoers today are filled with anger and unforgiveness, yet they think they are walking in the light because they attend church and follow religious routines. But without love, forgiveness, and holiness, we are deceiving ourselves.

So ask yourself:

Which Jesus have I received?
Which spirit is influencing my life?
Which gospel do I believe?

Is it the Jesus of Scripture, the true Holy Spirit, and the gospel that leads to salvation? Or is it a counterfeit—crafted to appeal to the flesh but powerless to save?

Let us heed the apostolic warning and discern carefully. As Scripture exhorts:

“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” – 2 Corinthians 13:5 (ESV)

The times are deceptive. Let us hold fast to the truth.

Maranatha—The Lord is coming soon!

Print this post

Who Made David Count the Israelites—God or Satan?

In the Old Testament, we come across two seemingly conflicting accounts about who influenced King David to take a census of Israel. One passage says it was God, and the other says it was Satan. Let’s explore both, and understand how they fit together theologically.

What Do the Scriptures Say?

2 Samuel 24:1 (NKJV):

“Again the anger of the Lord was aroused against Israel, and He moved David against them to say, ‘Go, number Israel and Judah.’”

1 Chronicles 21:1 (NKJV):

“Now Satan stood up against Israel, and moved David to number Israel.”

At first glance, these two verses seem to contradict each other—one says God incited David, the other says Satan did. So who was really responsible?

Understanding the Apparent Contradiction

The answer lies in understanding how God’s sovereignty and human agency work together, and how Satan can be used as an instrument of God’s judgment.

Let’s first consider that:

  • God is sovereign over all things, including the actions of Satan (Job 1:12, Job 2:6).

  • Satan cannot act unless God permits it (Luke 22:31–32).

So when 2 Samuel 24:1 says that God “moved David,” it means God allowed the temptation as a form of judgment against Israel, whose sin had aroused His anger.
When 1 Chronicles 21:1 says Satan moved David, it tells us who was the agent of that temptation—Satan—but not outside of God’s sovereign control.

This is similar to how God allowed Satan to test Job:

“The Lord said to Satan, ‘Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.’” — Job 1:12
God didn’t do the evil, but He allowed Satan to act for a greater purpose.

An Everyday Illustration

Think of it like this:
If someone says, “The car hit the man,” and another says, “The driver hit the man,” both are right. The car was the tool, but the driver was the one in control.

In the same way:

  • Satan was the tool,

  • But God was the One in ultimate control, allowing Satan to tempt David as part of His broader plan.

Why Was the Census a Sin?

At first, taking a census doesn’t seem wrong. But the issue was David’s motive—he was likely placing his trust in military strength rather than in God. This violated the principle found in:

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” — Psalm 20:7

And also:

“Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses… but do not look to the Holy One of Israel.” — Isaiah 31:1

God wanted Israel to trust Him, not numbers or human power. That’s why this census brought judgment.

The Judgment and God’s Mercy

After the census, David realized his sin and repented:

“And David said to God, ‘I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing; but now, I pray, take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have done very foolishly.’” — 1 Chronicles 21:8

Still, God sent a plague as a form of discipline. But even then, His mercy prevailed:

“And the Lord relented from the destruction, and said to the angel who was destroying, ‘It is enough; now restrain your hand.’” — 1 Chronicles 21:15

This balance of justice and mercy reflects God’s heart—even when He disciplines, it is to correct and redeem.

What Can We Learn?

  1. God is always in control, even over Satan’s actions.

  2. Satan can be used as an instrument of divine judgment, but only by God’s permission.

  3. God desires our trust, not in human strength or numbers, but in His power.

  4. Repentance matters—even when we sin, God is merciful if we turn back to Him.

Final Reflection

If you haven’t received Christ yet, know that we are living in the last days. Jesus is at the door, and the rapture of the church could happen at any moment. If He returned today, would He find you living in sin—or in Him?

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” — Hebrews 3:15
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” — 2 Corinthians 6:2

Maranatha! — The Lord is coming!

Please share this message with others.
For prayers, worship schedules, or questions, call:
📞 +255 693 036 618 or +255 789 001 312

 

Print this post

WHAT DOES DREAMING ABOUT AN ACCIDENT MEAN?

Dreams about accidents can appear in many different forms. Some people dream of motorcycle crashes, others see car accidents, plane crashes, shipwrecks, or train collisions. Sometimes the dream involves someone being hit by a vehicle or cars colliding. Regardless of the scenario, these dreams carry one common theme: an accident.

To understand the true meaning of such a dream, it is important to first identify which spiritual category you belong to:

1. For Those Who Are Born Again (Saved Believers)

If you are born again—meaning you have placed your faith in Christ and are confident in your standing before God—then understand that God is using this dream to warn you about an impending event. It may be an accident you will encounter personally, or it may affect someone else, or happen in a specific place. Your role is to enter into earnest prayer and spiritual warfare, breaking the plans of the enemy that may have been devised against you or others. Use the authority given to you in the name of Jesus to rebuke and cancel these evil schemes (Luke 10:19; Ephesians 6:10–18).

Do not ignore the weight of this warning. God reveals such things so that you may stand firm as a soldier of Christ and contend with the spiritual battle before the calamity unfolds (Job 33:14–15, ESV: “For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it… in a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds…”)

2. For Those Who Are Still in Sin (Not Saved)

If you are living in sin, having not repented or accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, this dream serves as a serious warning. It signals that God’s judgment is near. The accident in the dream may symbolize sudden death or the impending consequence of being caught in your sins with no escape (Hebrews 9:27).

Consider the strong words from Ezekiel 7:6–10 (NIV):

“The end has come, the end has come! It has dawned for you, the doom has come.
Doom has come upon you, you who live in the land; the time has come, the day is near— a day of clouds, a time of doom for the nations.
‘The sword will come against you, I will bring death upon you, and I will judge you according to your ways and punish you for all your detestable practices.
My eye will not spare, I will show no pity. Though they cry in my ears with a loud voice, I will not listen.’
“The time has come! The day has arrived! Let not the buyer rejoice nor the seller mourn, for wrath is upon all their multitude.
The time has come, the day has come; it is the time of my anger; I will pour out my wrath on the sinful nation.
The sword has come to my people, the rod of my anger, to punish and avenge them. It will strike down the people of the land.”

This passage vividly describes the inevitable judgment awaiting those who refuse to repent. If you are living in sin—whether it be sexual immorality, theft, idolatry, or any other transgression—the “accident” in your dream symbolizes the spiritual destruction or physical calamity that awaits you unless you turn from your ways.

A Call to Repentance

If you see yourself in the second group, do not delay in turning to Christ. The Lord Jesus offers forgiveness and new life to anyone who genuinely repents (1 John 1:9). He could have allowed judgment to come suddenly and without warning, but out of His great mercy, He warns you in advance through these dreams.

Today is the day of salvation. Open your heart, repent of your sins, and receive Jesus Christ as your Savior. He will forgive you, restore your life, and protect you from the calamities the enemy intended for you (2 Corinthians 5:17; Isaiah 43:18–19).

If you are ready to repent today, you can start with a prayer like this:

Prayer of Repentance:

“Lord Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner and I need Your mercy. I believe You died for my sins and rose again to give me new life. I repent of all my sins and ask You to forgive me. Please come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Help me to live for You from this day forward. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May God bless you richly.

Print this post

What is Cedar Wood?

Cedar wood refers to a type of tree that was commonly found in the region of Lebanon, located north of Israel. While cedar trees grew in various parts of the ancient world, they thrived most abundantly in Lebanon. This tree was renowned for its superior quality and durability compared to other types of timber. Cedar wood was hard and resistant to decay, making it highly valuable for many uses, especially construction.

Lebanon became wealthy through the trade of cedar wood, as many powerful nations such as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and Israel imported this timber for various purposes, particularly building.

King David famously used cedar from Lebanon to build his palace:

2 Samuel 5:11 (ESV)
“Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters and masons, who built David a house.”

David also mentioned his own humble dwelling made of cedar wood contrasted with the Ark of the Covenant:

2 Samuel 7:2 (ESV)
“You shall say to my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: Would you build me a house to dwell in? For I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent for my dwelling.’”

(Note: David’s house was of cedar, while God’s presence was still in the tent.)

Later, Solomon, David’s son, built the temple of the Lord using large amounts of cedar from Lebanon:

1 Kings 5:5-6 (ESV)
“Behold, I intend to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as the Lord spoke to my father David, saying, ‘Your son, whom I will set on your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.’ So now command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will be with your servants, and to you will I give whatever wages you say, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians.”

Even after Solomon’s temple was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar, the second temple rebuilt by Zerubbabel also used cedar wood imported from Lebanon:

Ezra 3:6-7 (ESV)
“From the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offerings to the Lord, but the foundation of the house of the Lord was not yet laid. So they gave money to the masons and carpenters, and food and drink and oil to the Sidonians and Tyrians to bring cedar logs from Lebanon by sea to Joppa, according to the grant that they had from Cyrus king of Persia.”

Cedar Wood as a Symbol of Prosperity and Righteousness

In biblical symbolism, cedar wood represents wealth, strength, and endurance, much like gold. Two valuable materials frequently mentioned in the construction of the temple are cedar wood and gold — both signifying divine beauty, glory, and preciousness.

Just as cedar trees stand tall and flourish in Lebanon, the righteous are promised to prosper and endure before God:

Psalm 92:12-15 (ESV)
“The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.”

This passage beautifully connects the flourishing life of the righteous to the strength and longevity of the cedar tree. The cedar’s durability and grandeur metaphorically illustrate the spiritual vitality and lasting honor given to those who walk in righteousness.

Who Are the Righteous?

Being “righteous” in Scripture does not simply mean claiming to do good works or moral deeds outside of a relationship with Christ. True righteousness is positional and relational, granted by faith in Jesus Christ. It means having been justified by grace through faith, receiving the Holy Spirit, and living in obedience empowered by God.

“But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.”
— Romans 3:21-22 (ESV)

Anyone who trusts in their own efforts apart from Christ is not truly righteous before God. Only those who have received Jesus by faith, who have been baptized into Him, and who walk by the Spirit can be counted as righteous.

Final Blessing

Just as cedar trees were highly esteemed for their strength and beauty, so too will those who are righteous in God’s eyes flourish and be honored. May God bless us all to be firmly rooted in Him, growing strong and flourishing like the majestic cedar.

Print this post

Who Were the Samaritans?

An Exploration of Their Origins, Beliefs, and Jesus’ Redemptive Message

After the Israelites were taken into exile by the Assyrian Empire (around 722 BC), the king of Assyria repopulated the land with people from other nations—such as Babylon, Kuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim. This was a common Assyrian practice to break national identities and religious loyalties. These people settled in Samaria, which had been the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel.

2 Kings 17:24 (NIV)
“The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Kuthah, Avva, Hamath and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns.”

These settlers were pagans who brought their own gods and religious practices. They did not know the God of Israel, Yahweh, nor how to worship Him. As a result, Scripture says that God allowed lions to attack them—a sign of divine judgment and warning.

2 Kings 17:25 (NIV)
“When they first lived there, they did not worship the Lord; so he sent lions among them and they killed some of the people.”

Recognizing something was wrong, the king of Assyria ordered that a Jewish priest be sent back to the land to teach these people how to worship the God of Israel.

2 Kings 17:27–28 (NIV)
“Then the king of Assyria gave this order: ‘Have one of the priests you took captive from Samaria go back to live there and teach the people what the god of the land requires.’ So one of the priests who had been exiled from Samaria came to live in Bethel and taught them how to worship the Lord.”

However, this resulted in a syncretistic religion. The people continued worshiping their native gods while also trying to incorporate worship of Yahweh. This is evident in the biblical critique:

2 Kings 17:33 (NIV)
“They worshiped the Lord, but they also served their own gods in accordance with the customs of the nations from which they had been brought.”

Theological Reflection:

This religious compromise made the Samaritans deeply suspect in the eyes of the Jews. While they lived in the land and followed some elements of the Law (especially the Pentateuch—the first five books of Moses), they rejected the rest of the Hebrew Scriptures, including the prophets. As a result, they were viewed as heretical and unclean by orthodox Jews.

This historical and theological divide persisted for centuries. By the time of Jesus, Jews still avoided any close contact with Samaritans.

John 4:9 (NIV)
“The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)”

Jesus Breaks the Barrier:

Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman in John 4 is revolutionary. He not only speaks to her, a Samaritan and a woman (both cultural taboos), but also reveals profound theological truth: that worship of God is no longer tied to physical locations like Mount Gerizim (Samaritan holy site) or Jerusalem, but is spiritual and universal.

John 4:21–23 (NIV)
“Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.
You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews.
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.”

This message underlines the gospel truth: salvation is no longer defined by ethnicity, temple, or tradition, but by faith in Jesus Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in truth.

A Call to Worship in Spirit and Truth:

True worship, as Jesus teaches, must be in Spirit (empowered by the Holy Spirit) and in Truth (according to the Word of God). It is not about rituals or geography, but relationship.

John 14:6 (NIV)
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Invitation:

Are you worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth today?

If not, you can make that decision now. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Be baptized by immersion in His name, as practiced by the early Church, for the forgiveness of sins.

Acts 2:38 (NIV)
“Peter replied, ‘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.’”

Maranatha—The Lord is coming!
Let this truth transform your life—and share it with others.

Print this post

TAKE HEART

Jesus turned and saw her, and said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And from that hour, the woman was healed.
— Matthew 9:20-22 (ESV)

Reflect for a moment on the woman who had been suffering from bleeding for twelve years. She dared to touch the fringe of Jesus’ garment, believing that this simple act of faith would heal her. Imagine what must have been going through her mind—and what others thought as they followed Jesus. The answer is yes, she discovered something profoundly significant.

Normally, for a woman in her condition, approaching Jesus publicly was unthinkable—her illness made her ceremonially unclean (see Leviticus 15:25-27). To reach out and touch even the hem of His garment was bold to the point of recklessness. That’s why she did it secretly, without telling anyone, even when Jesus asked, “Who touched me?” she feared to admit it, because she knew the possible consequences: rejection or rebuke.

But Jesus’ response was remarkably different. Instead of condemning or driving her away, He said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” Notice the tender affirmation—He honors even the faintest thoughts and hopes that are sincerely directed toward Him. This reveals a deep truth: faith, even small and vulnerable, is powerful and precious to Christ.

Today, many people wrestle with doubts and discouragement, often silenced by their own conscience or by the opinions of others. Good ideas for serving God can wither inside because people think they must be clergy or have special titles to make a difference. But the truth is, God values every faithful thought and effort, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.

You may not be a pastor, prophet, evangelist, or teacher—but that does not diminish the importance of what you can do for God. If you have a vision to share God’s Word, write encouraging messages, or even display Scripture in your community, don’t lose heart. The same God who healed the bleeding woman values your willingness to serve with a sincere heart.

Perhaps you feel called to create a garden for your church, to start a recording studio for testimonies, or to give generously of your resources for the sake of the gospel. Do it—regardless of how others may respond. Jesus notices and blesses those acts of faith and love.

Remember, “At the hem of Jesus’ garment is healing and ministry.” Don’t ignore those “small” ideas or gentle promptings that come to your mind for His sake. Carry them out with a pure heart, and God will delight in your service.

As the book of Revelation reminds us:

Revelation 22:12 (ESV):
“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done.”

So, take heart. Your faith matters. Your service matters. God sees, rewards, and honors every step you take toward Him.

Shalom.

Print this post

BUY THE LIVING WATER

The “living water” we read about in the Bible is not just ordinary water from a spring, a well, a river like the Jordan in Israel, nor is it some kind of anointing oil sold around today.

Living water is a spiritual reality that I want us to reflect on deeply today.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus gently introduces the concept of this living water—water that truly satisfies the deepest thirst of the human soul. It’s not water from a physical well.

John 4:5–15 (NIV) recounts this encounter:

“So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph.
Jesus, tired from the journey, sat down by the well about noon.
Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, ‘Will you give me a drink?’
His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.
The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.’
‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water?
Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?’
Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’
‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.’”

Have you noticed how Jesus clearly distinguishes the water of the well from the living water? The water from the well satisfies physical thirst temporarily, but the living water Jesus offers satisfies the soul forever.

What exactly is this living water?

Jesus Himself explains it further in John 7:37-39 (ESV):

“On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out,
‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.
Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’’
Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”

Here the “living water” is the Holy Spirit—the Spirit of God given to every believer. When we receive the Holy Spirit, our spiritual thirst for sin, for worldly pleasures, and for temporary satisfaction is quenched.

The Holy Spirit fills us with a joy, peace, and righteousness that surpass all earthly desires. Our cravings for sin, such as addiction, immorality, or evil, lose their power because the Spirit satisfies our deepest longings.

This is why receiving the Holy Spirit is so vital for every believer’s life.

However, it’s important to understand that the Bible says this living water is something we buy—not with money or material wealth, but with our lives. When we surrender our lives to Jesus and receive Him as Lord, we pay the cost of owning this living water.

Isaiah 55:1-2 (NIV) invites us:

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters;
and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.”

Notice it says, “Come, buy without money.” The cost is not financial, but the surrender of ourselves to Christ—a spiritual investment.

So here is the question for you: Have you received Jesus? Have you been baptized properly in water in the name of Jesus, signifying your new life in Him? This is the only way to receive the living water.

Jesus invites in Revelation 22:17 (ESV):

“The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come.’
Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.”

Do you desire the living water today?

Believe in Jesus, repent of your sins genuinely by turning away from them, and if you haven’t yet, be baptized in His name. This is the path to eternal satisfaction.

Maranatha!

Mada Nyinginezo:

YESU ANA KIU NA WEWE.
BIRIKA LA SILOAMU.
USIPOTEZWE NA MANENO YA MANABII WA UONGO.
UFUNUO: Mlango wa 22
WAKO WATATU WASHUHUDIAO MBINGUNI NA DUNIANI.

Rudi nyumbani

Print this post

When the Bible Says “All Have Sinned,” Does That Mean There Are No Saints on Earth?

The Bible states, “All have sinned,” but does this mean there are no saints anywhere? Let’s explore this carefully.

Romans 3:22-23 (ESV) says:
“This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Notice the text says “all have sinned” (past tense), not “all are sinning.” This means there was a point in the past when sin entered humanity, affecting everyone, not that every person continuously sins without exception.

The root cause of this universal sinfulness is the original sin committed by Adam and Eve. Scripture teaches that through one man’s disobedience, sin and its consequences entered the world, affecting all his descendants:

Romans 5:19 (NIV):
“For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.”

In other words, because we are all “in Adam” by birth, we inherit a sinful nature. This is what theologians call original sin—a state of moral corruption and separation from God that we are born into, without having chosen it ourselves.

This is why even children can display sinful traits such as anger, selfishness, or pride. It is not just behavior learned, but a condition of the human heart inherited from Adam’s fall.

However, the good news is that this condition can be reversed through Jesus Christ. Jesus is often called the “Second Adam” or “Last Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:45), who restores what was lost by Adam’s sin:

Romans 5:18-19 (NIV):
“Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.”

When we repent of our sins and receive Jesus as Lord and Savior, we are spiritually born again—made new creations through the Holy Spirit. This new birth cleanses us from original sin and empowers us to live holy lives.

1 John 1:8-9 (ESV):
“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 3:9 (NIV) further affirms this new reality:
“No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning because they have been born of God.”

This doesn’t mean believers never struggle with sin, but that sin no longer masters them. They have been set free from the dominion of sin and live empowered by God’s grace.

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

So yes, there are truly saints on earth—people who have been made holy through faith in Christ, living lives that please God.

Psalm 16:3 (NIV) says:
“As for the saints who are in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight.”

Final Reflection:
Are you a saint? Have you repented, accepted Jesus, and been baptized? Jesus stands at the door of your heart, ready to come in and transform your life. Those who receive Him are born again and will one day be taken to heaven to live eternally with God. Those who reject Him remain separated and face eternal judgment.

Maranatha! — The Lord is coming!

Print this post

Three Who Bear Witness in Heaven and on Earth

A Devotional Study from 1 John 5:6–9
By the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ

Introduction

Praise be to the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, we explore one of the profound truths in Scripture: the testimony affirming that Jesus Christ is the Son of God—a testimony borne not just by men but by God Himself through three witnesses in heaven and three on earth.

“This is he who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not by the water only but by the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.
For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood; and these three agree.”
—1 John 5:6–8, ESV

I. Understanding the Witnesses in Heaven: The Trinity Testifies

“For there are three that testify in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit, and these three are one.”
(Note: This portion appears in some manuscript traditions but is absent in earliest Greek texts.)

Though 1 John 5:7 in some translations includes “in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit,” modern critical editions (including the ESV, NIV, NASB) omit this clause due to manuscript evidence. However, the theological truth of the Trinitarian witness remains strongly supported throughout Scripture.

1. The Father

  • At Jesus’ baptism, the Father speaks from heaven confirming Jesus’ divine sonship:

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” —Matthew 3:17, ESV

2. The Word (Logos)

  • Jesus is identified as the eternal Word of God:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” —John 1:1, ESV
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” —John 1:14, ESV

3. The Holy Spirit

  • The Spirit descends visibly upon Jesus at His baptism:

“…he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him.” —Matthew 3:16, ESV

These three—the Father, the Word (Son), and the Holy Spirit—unite in affirming Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, co-equal in the Godhead (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14).

II. The Earthly Witnesses: Spirit, Water, and Blood

“And there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood; and these three agree.” —1 John 5:8, ESV

John now shifts from heaven to earthly witnesses, still confirming Jesus’ divine identity and redemptive mission.

1. Water – Baptism of Jesus

  • Jesus’ baptism was not a formality, but a divine confirmation of His calling and mission.

“It is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” —Matthew 3:15, ESV
His baptism inaugurated His public ministry and was affirmed by the Father’s voice and the Spirit’s descent.

2. Blood – Death of Jesus

  • At the crucifixion, Jesus’ shed blood became the means of atonement for sin.

“…the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” —1 John 1:7, ESV
When Jesus died, the Roman centurion exclaimed:
“Truly this man was the Son of God!” —Mark 15:39, ESV

This Roman soldier, having witnessed Jesus’ unique death and the events surrounding it (darkness, earthquake), was so convicted that he made a declaration of divine identity—an earthly testimony from a Gentile.

3. The Spirit – Divine Conviction and Presence

  • The Holy Spirit not only descended at baptism but continues to testify of Jesus through inner conviction, miracles, and regeneration of believers:

“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” —Romans 8:16, ESV

III. Theological Significance: Why This Matters

These three earthly witnesses point to vital truths about salvation and Christian identity.

“Whoever believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself.” —1 John 5:10, ESV

To be true children of God, we also need these three to testify in our lives:

1. Water – Baptism (Obedience to the Gospel)

  • Jesus commanded water baptism as an outward sign of inward faith.

“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” —Acts 2:38, ESV

2. Spirit – Regeneration and Indwelling

  • The Holy Spirit must regenerate and seal us.

“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” —John 3:5, ESV
“You…were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.” —Ephesians 1:13, ESV

3. Blood – Atonement and Justification

  • Faith in Jesus’ shed blood is central to salvation.

“We have now been justified by his blood…” —Romans 5:9, ESV

IV. Baptism: A Sacred Testimony

Sadly, many today neglect or misunderstand baptism, reducing it to a ritual rather than recognizing it as a public confession of faith and obedience. Christ Himself, though sinless, was baptized to fulfill all righteousness.

Moreover, baptism must be a conscious decision made by those who believe—not infants who cannot confess faith. Nowhere in Scripture is infant baptism commanded or practiced.

Correct Mode and Name in Baptism

  • In the New Testament, baptism is consistently performed in the name of Jesus Christ:

“They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” —Acts 8:16, ESV
“Be baptized…in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” —Acts 2:38, ESV

This affirms the identity of Jesus as Lord and unites believers into His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4).

Conclusion: Do You Bear the Testimony?

Just as heaven and earth bore witness to Jesus’ identity, so we too must receive the Spirit, the water, and the blood in our lives to have God’s testimony within us.

“Whoever does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne concerning his Son.” —1 John 5:10, ESV

May we not neglect these foundational truths. Let us walk in obedience, faith, and the witness of the Spirit, so that we too may be counted as sons and daughters of the Most High God.

Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus.

 

Print this post

What Is the “Wages of a Dog” in Deuteronomy 23:18? A Biblical and Theological Explanation

Let us begin with the scripture:

Deuteronomy 23:18 (ESV) – “You shall not bring the fee of a prostitute or the wages of a dog into the house of the Lord your God in payment for any vow, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God.”

Understanding the Terms: “Prostitute” and “Dog”

In this verse, two forms of illicit income are mentioned:

  • The fee of a prostitute, referring to money earned through female prostitution.

  • The wages of a dog, a metaphor for a male prostitute. In ancient Hebrew context, the word “dog” (Hebrew: keleb) could be a derogatory term referring to male cult prostitutes, particularly those associated with pagan temple rituals (see also Strong’s Concordance H3611).

This usage reflects both moral corruption and ritual impurity. Male prostitution, often practiced in pagan temples, was directly tied to idolatry and sexual perversion, which God forbade for Israel (see Leviticus 18:22 and 1 Kings 14:24).

Leviticus 18:22 (ESV) – “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.”

1 Kings 14:24 (ESV) – “…there were also male cult prostitutes in the land. They did according to all the abominations of the nations that the Lord drove out before the people of Israel.”

These male prostitutes were often linked to Canaanite fertility worship and were considered detestable because their acts directly opposed God’s design for sexuality and worship.

Why God Forbids These Offerings

God is holy, and His house must be kept holy. Offerings to God were to be from clean hands and pure hearts (see Psalm 24:3–4). God rejected not only sinful acts but also any proceeds gained through sin, especially sexual immorality tied to idolatry.

Proverbs 15:8 (ESV) – “The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.”

By forbidding the earnings of prostitution (both female and male), God emphasizes that the source of an offering matters. It is not enough to give to God—how we live and how we earn matters deeply to Him.

Holiness as the True Offering

Scripture teaches that holiness is the first and most important offering God seeks from us. Without repentance and sanctification, our gifts—even generous ones—are not pleasing to Him.

Romans 12:1 (ESV) – “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”

Jesus also reaffirmed this principle in the New Testament:

Matthew 9:13 (ESV) – “Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

In other words, God desires transformed lives more than outward religious acts.

The Heart Behind the Offering

Jesus instructed believers to reconcile with others and come before God with sincerity, not hypocrisy:

Matthew 5:23–24 (ESV) – “So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”

This shows that God values right relationships and internal purity above ritual sacrifice.

Final Judgment: Who Will Inherit Eternal Life?

Scripture warns that those who continue in willful sin, including sexual immorality and deceit, without repentance, will be excluded from the Kingdom of God:

Revelation 22:14–15 (ESV) – “Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.”

The term “dogs” here again refers to those living in moral and spiritual corruption—those who have rejected God’s path of holiness.

Summary and Encouragement

  • God forbids income from prostitution (male or female) from being used in offerings to Him.

  • Holiness and sincere repentance are what God desires more than material gifts.

  • We are called to live holy lives, offer ourselves to God, and repent from sin.

  • Those who persist in sin and refuse to repent are in danger of being excluded from eternal life.

May we strive to live in holiness, offering ourselves fully to the Lord.

Maranatha! (The Lord is coming.)
Please share this message with others so that they too may be edified.

 

Print this post

Archives

Search

Archives

Migawanyo