Being a Friend of the World Means Being an Enemy of God
James 4:4 (ESV):
“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”
This is one of the most direct and sobering declarations in the New Testament. James, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, compares spiritual compromise with adultery betraying the covenant relationship between God and His people. Being a “friend of the world” means aligning yourself with a system that is fundamentally opposed to God’s will and character.
In biblical terms, “the world” (Greek: kosmos) doesn’t just mean the physical earth or people but rather the fallen world system its values, desires, and ambitions that are rooted in sin, pride, and rebellion against God (cf. John 15:18–19).
The Dangers of Loving the World
1 John 2:15–17 (ESV):
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life is not from the Father but is from the world.
And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”
John lays out three root categories of sin that characterize the world:Desires of the flesh Sinful cravings such as gluttony, lust, drunkenness, and sexual immorality.Desires of the eyes Covetousness, materialism, and a relentless pursuit of wealth and status.Pride of life Arrogance, self-sufficiency, boasting in achievements or possessions.
These are not from God but from the fallen world system under the influence of Satan, who is called the “god of this world” in 2 Corinthians 4:4. The Bible warns that all these things are temporary. They will pass away. Only those who do God’s will shall remain.
The Pride of Life: A Deadly Sin
The “pride of life” includes the refusal to be taught or corrected, often fueled by education, wealth, or power. When someone feels they no longer need God or treat His Word as optional that’s the pride of life.
Jesus warned of this self-deception:
Mark 8:36–37 (ESV):
“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?
For what can a man give in return for his soul?”
Heaven and hell are real. Eternal souls are at stake. Gaining the whole world, while losing eternal life, is the ultimate tragedy.
Biblical Examples of Worldly Pride and Its Consequences
1. King Belshazzar Daniel 5
Belshazzar profaned the holy things of God by using the sacred temple vessels for a drunken party. That night, God judged him. A hand appeared, writing on the wall: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. Daniel interpreted the message: Belshazzar had been weighed and found wanting. He died that very night, and his kingdom fell.
2. The Rich Man and Lazarus Luke 16:19–31
Jesus tells of a rich man who lived in luxury while ignoring a poor beggar named Lazarus. When the rich man died, he found himself in torment, begging for relief. His wealth and worldly status had no value in eternity. He was forever separated from the presence of God.
3. Queen Jezebel 1 Kings 21 & 2 Kings 9
Jezebel, a symbol of rebellion and pride, killed God’s prophets and promoted idolatry. She lived in vanity and self-exaltation. But her end was gruesome God judged her, and she was thrown from a window, and dogs devoured her body.
These accounts are not just stories they are divine warnings.
1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV):
“Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.”
The Call to Repent and Be Saved
The question is personal:
Are you a friend of God, or an enemy of God?
If you still love the sinful ways of the world sexual immorality, drunkenness, gossip, profanity, obsession with fame, fashion, and entertainment you are, by your lifestyle, aligned against God. You don’t have to say it with your mouth; your actions speak for you.
But there is hope. God, in His mercy, calls you to repent.
Acts 2:38 (ESV):
“And Peter said to them, ‘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.'”
Genuine repentance involves a turning away from sin and turning to Christ as Savior and Lord. Biblical baptism (by full immersion, in Jesus’ name) is a public act of faith and obedience. And the Holy Spirit empowers you to walk in holiness, no longer a friend of the world, but a true is that God is coming soon.
Maranatha.
If we are saved by grace, why must we strive to obtain salvation?
QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say, “The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?
ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear there is none.
Ephesians 2:8–9
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
But then the question arises if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
The answer is that we have an enemy Satan who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.
Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have all so that you do not lose your salvation.
That is where the saying
“the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.
For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before to watch and pray and instead, they slept.
Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation or worse, you might lose it entirely.
So, we do not just believe in Jesus and then remain idle no. That is only the first step. The next step is to fight, struggle, and endure pain in order to guard our salvation, because our enemy, the devil, is constantly hunting for it day and night.
QUESTION: Is there any contribution we can make to obtain our salvation? And if not, why then does Scripture say,
“The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12)?
ANSWER: Regarding our contribution to the grace of salvation, Scripture is clear there is none.
Ephesians 2:8–9
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
But then the question arises if that’s the case, why does Scripture say:
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
The answer is that we have an enemy Satan who makes the path to salvation seem like it requires only little effort. That’s why it takes extra strength to see the path clearly and to walk in it, because it is narrow and difficult.
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.
Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
For example, today Satan can hinder you from worshiping Christ simply because your parents disapprove, your job overwhelms you, or your environment is unfriendly and no one understands you. Do you think if you yield to those obstacles, you will inherit eternal life? Impossible. It requires determination, effort, the willingness to be disliked, or even at times losing what you have all so that you do not lose your salvation.
That is where the saying “the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” applies.
For instance, Christ told us to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) so we do not fall into temptation, because our enemy the devil is always on the prowl. If you do not pray to protect the salvation Christ freely gave you, and you are lazy about it, know that Satan will stay awake for your downfall. When the time comes, he will bring heavy temptations your way, just like he did to Peter and the others that night Peter ended up denying the Lord and others fled naked. Do you think they wanted to do that? No, it happened because they ignored the command Jesus gave them shortly before to watch and pray and instead, they slept.
Likewise, if you do not pray, fast from time to time, or serve Christ actively, it will be very difficult to maintain your salvation or worse, you might lose it entirely.
May the Lord bless you
What Does It Mean That “No One Can Say ‘Jesus is Lord’ Except by the Holy Spirit”?
Key Verse:
1 Corinthians 12:3 (NKJV)
“Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.”
At first glance, this verse might seem confusing. Anyone can verbally say “Jesus is Lord,” right? Even those who don’t truly follow Christ could say those words. So what is Paul really saying here?
The answer lies in the spiritual depth of the confession. Paul is not referring to a mere verbal utterance, but to a genuine acknowledgment of Jesus’ divine lordship, prompted by the indwelling and revelation of the Holy Spirit.
1. Confessing Jesus as Lord Is a Spiritual Act, Not Just Words
Paul explains that true faith in Jesus’ lordship comes through spiritual revelation, not human logic or tradition. Jesus is not merely a historical figure or a good teacher—He is God incarnate, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world.
Romans 10:9 (NKJV)
“That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
This confession is not just reciting a creed; it is a response to divine revelation brought by the Holy Spirit. Only someone touched, convicted, and regenerated by the Spirit can truly and meaningfully declare “Jesus is Lord.”
2. True Confession Comes From the Heart
Jesus warned that not everyone who outwardly claims Him will be saved:
Matthew 7:21-23 (NKJV)
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven… Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”
This clearly shows that verbal acknowledgment without obedience and transformation is empty. Real confession is always accompanied by repentance, obedience, and a changed life.
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Confession
It is the Holy Spirit who:
- Reveals who Jesus truly is (John 16:13-14)
- Regenerates the believer (Titus 3:5)
- Assures us of our adoption (Romans 8:15-16)
- Enables us to live in obedience to Christ (Galatians 5:22-25)
Without the Holy Spirit, any confession of Jesus lacks power and authenticity.
John 16:13-14 (NKJV)
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth… He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.”
4. You Cannot Have the Holy Spirit and Curse Jesus
This is why Paul also says in the same verse (1 Corinthians 12:3) that no one speaking by the Spirit of God can say, “Jesus is accursed.” The Holy Spirit always leads us to honor, worship, and submit to Jesus. Any attitude or belief that degrades or dishonors Christ is clear evidence that the Spirit is not present.
5. How Then Can We Confess Christ Rightly?
Jesus said that to enter the Kingdom, we must be born again:
John 3:5 (NKJV)
“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
Being born again involves:
- True repentance (turning from sin)
- Water baptism (public identification with Christ)
- Receiving the Holy Spirit (empowerment to live for God)
Only then can our words of faith come from a genuine place. After that transformation, every prayer, every praise, and every confession we make—“Jesus is Lord”—will be Spirit-led, meaningful, and effective.
6. A Holy Confession Requires a Holy Life
2 Timothy 2:19 (NKJV)
“Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.’”
Confessing Jesus as Lord requires more than words—it requires us to turn away from sin and live in a way that reflects our new identity in Christ.
Conclusion:
To truly say “Jesus is Lord” in a way that honors God and reflects saving faith, you must be born again through the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit dwells in you, your confession becomes real, powerful, and pleasing to God. Without Him, even the most religious words are just noise.
Let’s not settle for lip service. Let’s seek a heart transformation through repentance, baptism, and the infilling of the Holy Spirit—so that when we say “Jesus is Lord,” we say it in truth and power.
Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus!)
Please share this message with others—it’s the Good News the world needs.
THE RAPTURE: A SUDDEN AND UNEXPECTED EVENT
In the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, He gave us signs that would precede His second coming. He made it clear that when we observe certain signs earthquakes, wars, pestilences, false prophets, and societal upheavals we should know that His return is near. As recorded in
Matthew 24:3-8 (NKJV), His disciples asked,
“Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”
Jesus answered by describing various signs:
- Wars and rumors of wars (v. 6)
- Famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (v. 7)
- Persecution and betrayal (v. 9-10)
- False prophets leading many astray (v. 11)
He emphasized that these signs would occur as part of the birth pangs, but they would not reveal the exact day of His return. What Jesus never revealed is the precise day when He would come to take His church this remains a mystery. The lack of knowledge regarding the specific time of His return is one of the greatest challenges for Christians today. Despite all the signs being fulfilled in our time, people still look for a specific clue or signal that would alert them to the exact day of the rapture.
The Days of Noah: A Parallel to Christ’s Return
Jesus Himself compared His second coming to the days of Noah, a period of rampant disregard for God’s warning. In
Matthew 24:37-39 (NKJV), Jesus says:
“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”
No one in Noah’s day anticipated the flood. They were consumed with everyday activities, eating, drinking, marrying, and living their lives, completely unaware that God’s judgment was about to descend. Jesus is telling us that His return will be the same it will catch many by surprise. As Noah entered the ark and the rain began, the people were taken unawares, just as the world will be when Christ returns.
This is why, in
Matthew 24:42-44 (NKJV), Jesus urges us to be vigilant:
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
This is a call to spiritual vigilance. The exact day and hour of Christ’s return will remain unknown to everyone, including His faithful followers. Even the “bride of Christ” (the church) will not know the specific time of the rapture. This is why believers are urged to stay spiritually alert, living faithfully according to God’s will until the return of the Lord.
The Parable of the Faithful Servant
Jesus continued His teaching by emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and readiness in
Matthew 24:45-47 (NIV):
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.”
This parable illustrates the importance of doing the work of the Lord while we wait for His return. The faithful servant is one who continues to carry out his duties feeding others, fulfilling his responsibilities, and being diligent in the tasks God has assigned to him. This is the behavior that pleases God and ensures readiness for His return.
The Suddenness of the Rapture
In
1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 (NKJV), Paul wrote about the unexpected nature of the rapture:
“For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.”
The return of Christ, including the rapture of the church, will come as a thief in the night. It will be sudden and unexpected. People will be going about their daily routines planning their futures, building their careers, enjoying their lives when, in an instant, the rapture will occur, and one will be taken, and the other left. This is consistent with
Matthew 24:40-41 (NKJV), where Jesus said:
“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and the other left.”
This illustrates that the rapture will be a selective event. Some will be taken to be with the Lord, while others will be left behind to face the tribulation.
The Regret of Those Left Behind
For those who miss the rapture, the consequences will be devastating. In
Matthew 25:11-12 (NKJV), Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the regret of those who were unprepared:
“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'”
The unprepared virgins represent those who failed to be spiritually ready for Christ’s return. When the door is shut, it will be too late for them to change their fate. They will be left in regret and sorrow, wishing they had been ready.
Similarly, in Luke 13:25-28 (NIV), Jesus speaks of the regret of those who are shut out of the Kingdom:
“Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.'”
The time for repentance and preparation is now. Once Christ returns, there will be no more opportunities for repentance. The regret that follows will be eternal.
The Urgency of Repentance
There is still time, though it is very short. As we wait for the return of Christ, there is an urgent call for repentance.
In 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV), we are reminded that:
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Christ is offering one last opportunity for sinners to turn to Him before the rapture occurs. Today is the day of salvation. If you have not yet repented and placed your trust in Jesus Christ, do so now. Acknowledge your sin, turn away from it, and receive the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Conclusion: Be Ready, for the Lord’s Return Is Near
In these final moments before Christ’s return, there is still a chance to make things right with God. The signs are clear, and the day of Christ’s return is drawing near. The rapture will come unexpectedly, and only those who are ready, living in faith and obedience to Christ, will be taken.
Shalom.
Did Queen Esther Use Makeup? What Does That Mean for Christian Women Today?
As believers, it’s essential to approach the Word of God with humility, reverence, and above all, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Scripture, when interpreted without the Spirit’s illumination, can easily be twisted to support anythingfrom immorality to false doctrines.
As 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV) says:
“He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”
Without the Holy Spirit, we may even wrongly justify sin. Some have used the Bible to defend alcohol abuse, same-sex marriage, or polygamy. That’s why Paul reminds us that interpretation must be Spirit-led.
What Really Happened to Queen Esther?
Some argue that since Queen Esther underwent beauty treatments before meeting King Ahasuerus, modern Christian women are free to adorn themselves however they wish through makeup, artificial hair, skin bleaching, etc. But is that what the Bible actually teaches?
Esther 2:12 (NKJV) says:
“Each young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after she had completed twelve months’ preparation, according to the regulations for the women, for thus were the days of their preparation apportioned: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes and preparations for beautifying women.”
This verse shows that the process Esther underwent was not cosmetic in the modern sense. It was a purification and healing regimen. The oils and spices mentioned like oil of myrrh had antiseptic and restorative properties. These treatments were meant to cleanse the body, heal the skin, and refresh the natural beauty that may have been affected by harsh living conditions. It was more of a physical and ceremonial sanctification rather than painting the body with artificial enhancements.
What Does the New Testament Say About Adornment?
The New Testament provides clear instruction on how godly women should present themselves:
1 Timothy 2:9-10 (NIV)
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
Here, Paul emphasizes inner beauty and godliness over outward appearance. He does not say it is inherently sinful to wear jewelry or braid hair, but he warns against making physical appearance a priority over spiritual character.
1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV) echoes this:
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
The biblical principle is that true beauty is inward. The emphasis is on purity, humility, modesty, and good works not on physical appeal through worldly means.
The Body Is God’s Temple
The Bible also reminds us that our physical bodies are sacred. They are temples of the Holy Spirit:
1 Corinthians 3:17 (NKJV)
“If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”
When believers excessively modify or dishonor their bodies in ways that promote vanity or mimic worldly lusts, they dishonor God’s temple. This includes practices like excessive makeup, artificial beauty enhancements, wearing revealing or tight clothing, and anything done with the motive of seduction or vanity.
So, Is It a Sin for a Christian Woman to Wear Makeup or Adorn Herself?
The Bible doesn’t outright forbid makeup or adornment but it warns against worldly motivations behind it. If the purpose is pride, seduction, comparison, or seeking human approval, then the act becomes spiritually dangerous.
As Paul said:
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Our call is to reflect Christ, not the culture. Christian women are encouraged to pursue holiness in both heart and appearance, honoring God in every area of life.
Final Thoughts
Esther was chosen not because of cosmetics, but because of her grace, purity, and the favor of God (Esther 2:15-17). Her preparation was inward and ceremonial, not focused on artificial outward beauty.
Dear sister in Christ, if you find yourself relying on makeup, wigs, revealing clothes, or skin bleaching to feel beautiful or accepted, let the Holy Spirit minister to your heart. God sees beauty in your humility, modesty, and devotion not in your physical enhancements.
Let us strive to glorify God in our bodies and spirits, which are His (1 Corinthians 6:20).
Maranatha! Jesus is coming soon. Be found ready, holy, and set apart.
Are You Doing God’s Will
If you consider yourself a servant of God, it’s essential to ask: Are you truly doing the will of the Lord Jesus?
Why? Because pleasing God depends on understanding and living out His will. Jesus said clearly:
John 6:37-40 (ESV):
“All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.
For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.
And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day.
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”
Here, Jesus teaches the doctrine of eternal security or perseverance of the saints those truly given to Him by the Father will be kept safe and raised on the last day. It reflects God’s sovereign grace in salvation (see also Romans 8:29-30).
In practice, this means two key missions for every believer and servant of God:
- Lead others to Jesus so they can believe and receive eternal life.
- Care for believers so that none of them fall away or lose their salvation.
Jesus modeled this mission, and the Father confirmed His work was pleasing (see John 5:30).
Bearing Lasting Fruit
John 15:16 (NIV):
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit fruit that will last and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
Fruit that “remains” means genuine spiritual growth and lasting transformation, not temporary or shallow faith. This ties into sanctification the ongoing work of God to make believers holy (Philippians 1:6).
Jesus also instructed Peter:
John 21:15-17 (ESV):
“Feed my lambs… Tend my sheep…”
This demonstrates pastoral care, requiring both nourishing (teaching, encouraging) and guarding (protecting believers from falling away).
Perseverance and Growth in the Church
Acts 15:36-41 shows Paul revisiting churches he planted to strengthen believers, proving that evangelism must be paired with discipleship.
Ask yourself:
- Are you helping others come to faith?
- Are you helping believers grow and stay faithful?
Jesus said:
John 4:34-35 (NIV):
“My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”
Don’t Be a Christian Who Just Sits in the Warehouse
In the parable of the wheat and the chaff, Jesus distinguishes believers (wheat) from unbelievers (chaff):
Matthew 3:12 (NIV):
“His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
The barn represents God’s protection and security.
However, wheat also needs to be planted back in the field to grow and produce a harvest:
John 12:24-26 (ESV):
“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”
This is a call to self denial (Luke 9:23) and counting the cost of discipleship.
Many believers stay “in the barn” saved but inactive. Jesus calls us to endure trials and temptations to bear fruit (Luke 8:11-15).
Practical Application
- Salvation is not just a moment; it’s a lifelong process of drawing others to Jesus and helping them remain faithful.
- Faithfulness involves giving our resources, time, and gifts to God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- Don’t be a passive believer; be a fruitful servant who participates actively in the kingdom.
May God strengthen us to fully live His will, bear lasting fruit, and lead others to eternal life!
JUST AS LIGHTNING FLASHES FROM EAST TO WEST: UNDERSTANDING THE RETURN OF CHRIST
Many Christians today live casually, giving little attention to the urgency and reality of Christ’s return. But have you ever considered why Jesus compared His second coming to lightning?
1. The Suddenness and Visibility of Christ’s Return
“For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.”
Matthew 24:27–28, ESV
Jesus used the image of lightning to convey that His return will be sudden, visible, and undeniable. Just as lightning strikes without warning and lights up the whole sky, Christ’s return will happen quickly no one will miss it, but many will not be ready.
The “vultures” gathering around a corpse in verse 28 symbolize the unavoidable judgment that follows His return. No one escapes His coming, just as no animal escapes the attention of vultures when death is present.
2. Divine Revelation for a Prepared Church
Many believers are unaware that before the rapture, Christ will reveal divine mysteries to prepare His Church. These mysteries are not found in Scripture because they are reserved for a specific time for those walking in intimate fellowship with Him.
Just as lightning is often followed by thunder, spiritual thunder will follow the light of His return symbolic of the Seven Thunders mentioned in the Book of Revelation:
“…He called out with a loud voice, like a lion roaring. When he called out, the seven thunders sounded. And when the seven thunders had sounded, I was about to write, but I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Seal up what the seven thunders have said, and do not write it down.’”
Revelation 10:3–4, ESV
Theologians agree that the content of these thunders was deliberately hidden, pointing to specific divine instructions or revelations that will be understood only by those who are spiritually awake in the final days.
These are not general messages for all ages, but precise truths for a specific, pure Bride of Christ. Amos 3:7 (ESV) supports this idea:
“For the Lord God does nothing without revealing His secret to His servants the prophets.”
3. The Danger of Being Spiritually Deaf
This isn’t the first time God’s voice was mistaken for thunder. When God spoke to Jesus publicly, many people couldn’t recognize His voice:
“Then a voice came from heaven: ‘I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.’ The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, ‘An angel has spoken to him.’ Jesus answered, ‘This voice has come for your sake, not mine.’”
John 12:28–30, ESV
What does this tell us? Without spiritual sensitivity, divine messages will sound like noise. Many will hear but not understand. That is why Jesus constantly urged people to “have ears to hear” (Matthew 11:15).
4. The Urgency to Enter the Narrow Door
Jesus knew there would come a time when people would desire salvation, but the door would be shut.
“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door… you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us.’ Then He will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’”
Luke 13:24–25, ESV
This “door” represents Christ Himself (John 10:9). The time to seek Him is now not after the lightning has flashed and the thunders have sounded.
5. The Gospel Clock is Ticking
The gospel has nearly completed its journey among the nations. According to Jesus:
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Matthew 24:14, ESV
Today, the Jewish people pray daily at the Western Wall, yearning for the restoration of their kingdom. This aligns with the prophetic timeline. Yet many in the Church are asleep chasing miracles, wealth, or motivational messages, but ignoring the deeper call of the kingdom.
6. Work Out Your Salvation Seriously
The Apostle Paul reminds us:
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”
Philippians 2:12–13, ESV
Fear and trembling here do not mean panic but reverent seriousness. The Christian life is not a casual stroll; it’s a race (Hebrews 12:1), a battle (Ephesians 6:12), and a preparation for a wedding (Revelation 19:7).
Final Thought: The Lightning and the Thunder Are Near
We are living in the final stretch of grace. The signs are everywhere. The “lightning” will flash Christ will appear. The “thunder” will follow messages known only to the ready.
If you are outside of Christ, you will not understand when that moment comes. You may hear the sound, but like many in Jesus’ day, you will say, “It was just thunder.”
Don’t delay.
Come to Christ now. Prepare your heart. Live awake.
Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus.
NOT BY MIGHT, NOR BY POWER, BUT BY MY SPIRIT, SAYS THE LORD
(Zechariah 4:6, ESV)
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.’”
Shalom.
Life often presents challenges that human strength or skill alone cannot overcome. You might exhaust all your abilities or rely on someone else’s power, yet still face failure or frustration. At such times, Scripture teaches us that the true source of victory is not physical might or human effort, but the Spirit of God working within us.
Theological Insight: The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), fully divine and personal, sent to empower believers to live godly lives and accomplish God’s purposes. Jesus promised His disciples that the Spirit would be their Helper and Guide (John 14:16–17, ESV). Without the Spirit, spiritual work is impossible (Romans 8:9), but with Him, we are empowered to overcome obstacles, bear fruit, and live in obedience to God’s will.
Elijah’s Encounter with God: The Quiet Voice of the Spirit
(1 Kings 19:11-13, NIV)
“The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a powerful wind tore through the mountains…but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind came an earthquake…but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire…but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.”
This passage shows that God’s presence and guidance are not always found in dramatic signs or outward displays of power. Instead, God often speaks through the gentle, peaceful voice of the Holy Spirit inviting us to listen closely and respond in faith.
Zerubbabel and the Mountain of Opposition
(Zechariah 4:6-7, NIV)
“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘Who are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’”
Here, the “mountain” symbolizes the overwhelming challenges and opposition Zerubbabel faced in rebuilding the temple after the exile. The message is clear: human effort alone will not remove the obstacle; it is only through God’s Spirit that mountains can be made level.
How to Receive the Holy Spirit
(Acts 2:37-39, ESV)
“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ And Peter said to them, ‘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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’”
The theological foundation here is repentance turning from sin and trusting in Jesus’ atoning work and baptism as a public declaration of faith. Receiving the Holy Spirit is God’s promise to all who come to Him in faith.
Summary
- Your strength and human ability have limits; the Holy Spirit empowers you beyond your natural capacity.
- God’s presence often comes in quiet, peaceful ways rather than loud or forceful signs.
- Challenges, like the “mountain” before Zerubbabel, can be overcome only by the Spirit.
- Repentance and baptism open the door for the Spirit to dwell within, enabling you to live victoriously.
Invitation
If you want to experience this power in your life, start with a sincere heart of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Seek baptism and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your daily walk.
Maranatha!
Why Is Jesus Called the Second Adam?
Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Have you ever asked yourself why Jesus is referred to as the “Second Adam” or the “Last Adam”? This isn’t just a poetic title it reflects a deep theological truth that helps us understand who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish.
1. The First Adam The Head of the Human Race
According to Genesis 1:26–28 (NIV), Adam was the first human created by God. He was given authority to rule over all living creatures and to fill and subdue the earth:
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over… all the creatures.’”
(Genesis 1:26, NIV)
This divine mandate was not only for Adam but for all his descendants. In theological terms, Adam acted as the federal head of the human race meaning his actions affected all of humanity.
However, Adam sinned (Genesis 3), and that sin broke humanity’s relationship with God. By disobeying God, Adam lost his authority and passed on sin, death, and separation from God to all his descendants.
“Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.”
(Romans 5:12, ESV)
Adam’s fall introduced not just personal sin, but original sin a condition we all inherit from birth.
2. God’s Redemptive Plan The Need for a Second Adam
God, in His grace, did not leave us in that fallen condition. He had a plan to redeem humanity not by creating a new species or another physical lineage, but by sending Jesus Christ, His Son, to become a Second Adam who would represent a new, redeemed humanity.
“So it is written: ‘The first man Adam became a living being’; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit.”
(1 Corinthians 15:45, NIV)
The first Adam gave us physical life.
The Second Adam (Jesus) gives us spiritual life.
Jesus came not to father children biologically, but to give spiritual birth to those who would believe in Him.
3. The Second Birth Entering the Family of Christ
Jesus made it clear that to be part of God’s kingdom, we must be born again:
“Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again… born of water and the Spirit.”
(John 3:3,5, NIV)
This second birth is not from Adam, but from Christ through the Holy Spirit. The first birth, from Adam, gives us a mortal, sinful nature. The second birth, through Jesus, makes us spiritually alive and restores our relationship with God.
“That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
(John 3:6, ESV)
4. Jesus’ Authority as the Second Adam
As the Second Adam, Jesus did not only come to redeem us He was also given complete authority over all creation:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
(Matthew 28:18, NIV)
“All things have been committed to me by my Father.”
(Matthew 11:27, NIV)
Unlike Adam, who lost his authority through sin, Jesus conquered sin and death. His authority is not limited to earth, but extends to heaven as well. And all who are born into His spiritual family share in that authority:
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…”
(Romans 8:16–17, NIV)
5. Two Adams, Two Outcomes
The contrast between the two Adams is central to Christian theology:
- Adam’s disobedience brought sin, death, and condemnation.
- Jesus’ obedience brought righteousness, life, and justification.
“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned… how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace… reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!”
(Romans 5:17, NIV)
“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
(1 Corinthians 15:22, NIV)
6. The New Birth and the Imperishable Seed
When we are born again, we are not just better people we become new creations, born from an imperishable seed: the Word of God.
“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”
(1 Peter 1:23, NIV)
The old seed Adam’s lineage is corrupted by sin and leads to death. But Jesus gives us a new birth into a kingdom that cannot perish.
7. How to Join the Lineage of Christ – The Second Adam
To become part of Jesus’ redeemed family, the Bible gives a clear path:
“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.’”
(Acts 2:38, NIV)
Step by step:
- Repent from your sins.
- Be baptized in water, in Jesus’ name.
- Receive the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Christ that gives new life.
Conclusion: Are You Born Again?
The first Adam failed. But Jesus, the Second Adam, succeeded. He came not to destroy but to redeem to give us a new identity, a new birth, and eternal life.
There’s no hope in the old nature. But in Christ, there is full restoration, authority, and inheritance.
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
(Ephesians 4:30, NIV)
On that day of redemption when Jesus returns we will receive the glorified bodies He promised, free from pain, death, and decay.
Have you been born again?
If not, now is the time. Jesus, the Second Adam, calls you into a new family and a new future.
May the Lord Jesus Christ the Victor over sin and death bless you richly and lead you into His eternal kingdom.
What Does It Mean to Worship God in Spirit and in Truth?
Many people today associate worship with singing slow, emotional songs during church services. While music is a powerful expression of worship, true worship is far more than just singing it is a lifestyle of honoring, revering, and serving God with our whole being.
The Greek word for worship used in the New Testament is “proskuneō”, which means “to bow down, to show reverence, to pay homage.” Worship involves submission of the heart, soul, and actions to God.
1. Jesus’ Teaching on True Worship
In John 4:23–24 (ESV), Jesus says:
“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Here, Jesus was speaking to the Samaritan woman, correcting the idea that worship was confined to a place (Jerusalem or Mount Gerizim). He introduced a new era of worship — not based on location or rituals, but on inward reality.
2. Worshiping in Spirit
To worship in spirit means our worship is not just outward or ritualistic, but comes from our innermost being our spirit and is made possible through the Holy Spirit.
Paul explains in Romans 8:9 (NIV):
“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”
True worship is only possible for those who are born again and have the Holy Spirit living in them. The Holy Spirit helps us to:
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Understand God’s will (1 Corinthians 2:10–12),
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Pray and worship correctly (Romans 8:26),
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And walk in holiness (Galatians 5:16–25).
As Jesus said in John 16:13 (NLT):
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth…”
3. Worshiping in Truth
To worship in truth means aligning our worship with the truth of God’s Word. It’s not enough to be sincere our sincerity must be rooted in what God has revealed through Scripture.
In John 17:17 (ESV), Jesus prayed:
“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”
Therefore, any form of worship that contradicts Scripture whether in lifestyle, doctrine, or practice is false worship. Worship in truth means we:
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Acknowledge God as He is revealed in Scripture,
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Obey His commands,
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And submit to His Word as final authority.
4. The Need for Both Spirit and Truth
Spirit without truth leads to emotionalism or spiritual error. Truth without spirit leads to dead formalism. But when both are present, worship becomes a powerful, living offering to God.
Paul summarizes this beautifully in Romans 12:1 (NIV):
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God this is your true and proper worship.”
5. A Call to Self-Examination
Ask yourself: Am I truly worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth?
You cannot know the truth without the Holy Spirit. And you cannot be led by the Spirit unless you’ve truly received Christ as Lord and Savior.
As Acts 2:38 (NKJV) says:
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Receiving the Holy Spirit is not just about speaking in tongues. It’s about transformation a changed heart, a renewed mind, and a life that bears the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).
Final Thought:
These are the last days. Christ is knocking on the hearts of many (Revelation 3:20). The trumpet could sound at any moment, and only those who are in Christ filled with His Spirit and walking in His truth will be ready.
Will you be among the true worshipers?
May the Lord bless you and guide you into deeper, Spirit-filled, truth-rooted worship.
