QUESTION: After Cain killed his brother Abel, he fled to the land of Nod. I would like to understand, where did he find a wife and have children with her? (Genesis 4:16).
ANSWER: If you read Genesis 5:1-5 (NIV), it says:
“1 This is the written account of Adam’s family line. When God created mankind, he made them in the likeness of God.
2 He created them male and female and blessed them. And he named them ‘Mankind’ when they were created.
3 When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image; and he named him Seth.
4 After Seth was born, Adam lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters.
5 Altogether, Adam lived a total of 930 years, and then he died.”
If you carefully examine verse 4, you will see that, in addition to Cain and Abel, Adam and Eve had other sons and daughters. This means that Cain likely married one of his sisters or possibly a niece, as the Bible does not mention any other people being created by God at this point. The assumption that Cain married a wild animal or a non-human being is not supported by Scripture. Instead, it appears Cain took a wife from his own family.
In the early days of human history, there were no prohibitions against such marriages. The idea that one should not marry close relatives, such as siblings, came much later in the history of humanity. This leads to another important question: Was it lawful for Cain to marry a close relative, such as his sister?
ANSWER: Remember, Adam himself did not take a wife from another family, but from his own side. The Bible records that Eve was taken from Adam’s rib (Genesis 2:21-23). In terms of kinship, Adam and Eve’s relationship was more akin to a deep unity than the relationship between a brother and sister. Early on, God allowed such unions for the purpose of procreation, as humanity was still in its infancy and needed to multiply and fill the earth. The first humans were created to populate the earth, and there were no other people available at the time for marriage.
However, as humanity grew, the need for such unions decreased, and God later issued commandments forbidding incestuous relationships. This is seen in the Levitical laws given to the Israelites much later, after the human population had expanded significantly.
Leviticus 18:6 (NIV) says: “No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord.”
Additionally, Leviticus 18:9 (NIV) states: “Do not have sexual relations with your sister, either your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether she was born in the same home or elsewhere.”
These laws were given to protect human health, moral integrity, and to establish a clear social structure for the growing human population. In the beginning, though, God allowed for such unions to ensure the survival and expansion of mankind.
To clarify, marrying a close relative was not uncommon in the early days of humanity, as there were no other options. But with the passage of time and the growth of the human race, God’s laws evolved to prohibit incest and ensure the well-being of future generations.
In summary: Cain most likely married one of his sisters or a close relative, as Adam and Eve had many other children. This practice was permissible early on, but later, God gave explicit commandments forbidding marriage between close relatives, which are still relevant today.
Blessings to you.
To understand the meaning of Zion, we must trace it from its historical roots to its spiritual fulfillment in Christ and the Church.
The term Zion first appears in the Bible during the time of King David. When David captured Jerusalem from the Jebusites, he took over the stronghold which was then renamed the City of David—also called the fortress of Zion (2 Samuel 5:7). From that point, Zion became a reference not only to the stronghold but also to Jerusalem itself, particularly as the political and religious center of Israel.
As Jerusalem became the capital city, it also became the location of the Ark of the Covenant and later the temple built by Solomon. This elevated Zion’s status to a symbol of God’s dwelling among His people. The prophets spoke of Zion as God’s holy mountain—a place where His presence, glory, and kingship were uniquely manifested (Psalm 132:13-14; Joel 3:17).
In Jeremiah 31:6,12, Zion is tied to restoration and rejoicing, pointing to both God’s judgment and His redemptive purposes through the return and renewal of His people.
Beyond geography, the prophets personified Zion to represent the covenant people of God—Israel. For example, in Isaiah 60:14, the prophet describes a future time of honor and restoration:
“…they will call you the City of the Lord, Zion of the Holy One of Israel.”
Here, Zion is not just a place, but a community—those chosen by God to bear His name and glory.
The same metaphor is carried in Zechariah 9:9 (“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion”) and Zephaniah 3:14-19, where “Daughter Zion” becomes a picture of God’s beloved people, destined for joy and salvation.
The New Testament brings a major theological development in the understanding of Zion. Under the New Covenant, Zion becomes a spiritual reality, representing the heavenly Jerusalem, the Church, and the Kingdom of God.
In Hebrews 12:22-23, the writer makes a clear contrast between Mount Sinai (representing the Old Covenant) and Mount Zion:
“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven…”
Here, Zion is the spiritual dwelling place of God’s redeemed people. It is not limited to geography, but refers to the heavenly reality believers are now part of through Christ.
The Apostle Peter gives further theological weight to the idea of Zion as the spiritual dwelling of God, built upon Jesus Christ as the cornerstone:
“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” (1 Peter 2:6)
This cornerstone prophecy, originally from Isaiah 28:16, is fulfilled in Jesus. Those who believe in Him become living stones, built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). Therefore, the true Zion—the spiritual temple of God—is made up of born-again believers, both Jew and Gentile, joined together in Christ (Ephesians 2:19-22).
Zion, then, is not merely an ancient city or a prophetic code word for Israel—it is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. It starts with a historical city, becomes a symbol for God’s people in exile and hope, and finds its fulfillment in the Church, the Bride of Christ, and ultimately in the New Jerusalem that will come down from heaven (Revelation 21:2).
This vision is both already and not yet. Already, we are part of Zion as citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20), but we also await the full manifestation of God’s kingdom in the age to come.
As believers in Christ, we are called to be part of this Zion—the spiritual city of God. It is a place of God’s presence, Christ’s kingship, and the eternal gathering of the redeemed. Our hope is not just in a city on earth, but in a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28), whose foundation is Jesus Christ Himself.
Let us therefore strive, by grace, to remain firmly rooted in Zion—God’s eternal dwelling with His people.
Be blessed.
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”
Jesus’ statement here is foundational for understanding how the Old Testament (the Law and the Prophets) relates to His mission. He is affirming that He did not come to cancel the teachings of the Old Testament, but to bring them to their intended fulfillment—to complete what they pointed forward to.
1. He Fulfilled the Law Morally
Jesus fulfilled the moral law (example the Ten Commandments) by living a sinless, obedient life. He was the only one who ever kept the Law perfectly.
Hebrews 4:15
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”
When He deepened commands like “Do not murder” and “Do not commit adultery” in Matthew 5:21–30, He wasn’t replacing the Law but showing its true spiritual intent—that God desires purity of heart, not just outward compliance.
2. He Fulfilled the Law Ceremonially
Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial aspects of the Law (like sacrifices, festivals, temple rituals) by becoming the true sacrifice and High Priest.
Hebrews 10:1
“For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities…”
Colossians 2:16–17
“Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”
Everything in the sacrificial system pointed forward to Jesus. The lambs, the offerings, the priesthood—all of it was fulfilled in Him.
3. He Fulfilled the Law Prophetically
Many Old Testament laws and prophetic writings anticipated the Messiah. Jesus is the one to whom they all pointed.
Luke 24:44
Then he said to them, ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.’”
From the promise of a Redeemer in Genesis 3:15 to the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53, Jesus is the fulfillment of all prophetic expectation.
4. He Enables Us to Fulfill the Law Through the Spirit
While believers are not under the Old Testament Law as a system of salvation (Romans 6:14), the righteous requirements of the Law are fulfilled in us as we live by the Spirit.
Romans 8:3–4
“For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son… he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
Through Christ, we are empowered to live out the heart of God’s law—not out of obligation, but out of transformed hearts.
In Summary
Jesus did not abolish the Law; He fulfilled it:
By living it out perfectly (moral fulfillment)
By being the reality behind its symbols (ceremonial fulfillment)
By accomplishing what the prophets foretold (prophetic fulfillment)
And by making it possible for us to live in alignment with God’s will through the Holy Spirit.
The Law was never the way to salvation, but it pointed to the One who is. In Christ, we find both the end and the goal of the Law in Romans 10:4
“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”
ANSWER: No, it is not biblically permissible to baptize young children. Baptism in Christian theology is a sacrament that follows genuine repentance and faith. In the Bible, repentance involves a personal decision to turn away from sin and dedicate one’s life to God. This is clearly outlined in
Acts 2:38, where Peter says, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
Notice the order: repentance first, followed by baptism.
In
Mark 1:15, Jesus also preached, “The time has come, the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news.”
Again, repentance and faith precede baptism. Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as described in
Romans 6:4: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
Thus, baptism is a conscious act that follows personal faith and repentance, and this cannot be applied to infants or young children who are not yet capable of making such decisions.
Why aren’t infants baptized? The primary reason is that infants do not have the ability to make a conscious decision to repent of their sins or to place faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that individuals must recognize their need for salvation and choose to follow Christ for baptism to be meaningful. In
Romans 10:9, it is stated, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Infants are not able to declare their faith or make this confession.
The Bible also speaks about the necessity of personal responsibility in salvation, as seen in
Acts 17:30, which says, “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.”
Children, being unaware of their sin or the gospel, cannot meet this requirement.
Instead of baptizing infants, we see in
Mark 10:16 that Jesus blessed children, saying, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
This shows that while children are precious in God’s sight, they are not yet at an age to make personal decisions about repentance and faith.
Baptism and Personal Decision: To baptize an infant is similar to baptizing someone who has not personally repented and confessed faith in Christ. True baptism, as shown in
Acts 8:36-37, is linked to an individual’s personal confession of faith. When Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch, the eunuch says, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” And Philip replies, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.”
Baptism without personal faith and repentance is not consistent with the biblical model.
In summary, baptism is a deeply personal step that follows an individual’s decision to repent and believe in Jesus Christ. Infants, who are not yet capable of making this decision, cannot be biblically baptized. Instead, they can be prayed for and blessed, just as Jesus did with the children in Mark 10:16.
Shalom.
Is the true Sabbath on Saturday or Sunday? Are Christians required to observe a specific day of worship? What does the Bible really say?
The word “Sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word Shabbat, meaning “rest” or “cease.” In the Old Testament, the Sabbath was the seventh day of the week (Saturday), set apart as a holy day of rest and worship for the people of Israel (see Exodus 20:8–11).
However, the Sabbath command was a shadow—a symbolic pointer to something greater that would come through Christ.
Colossians 2:16–17 (NKJV)
“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.”
Jesus fulfilled the law, including the Sabbath law (see Matthew 5:17). In Him, we find our ultimate spiritual rest—freedom from sin, legalism, and striving for salvation through works.
Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV)
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest… and you will find rest for your souls.”
Hebrews 4:9–10 (NIV)
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.”
True Sabbath for the believer is not merely resting one day a week—it is resting in the finished work of Christ.
In the New Covenant, worship is no longer tied to a specific day or place. Worship is now a matter of spirit and truth—daily, heartfelt devotion to God.
John 4:23–24 (NIV)
“A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth…”
The Apostle Paul warned against elevating special days or seasons as requirements for righteousness.
Galatians 4:9–11 (ESV)
“…How can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles… You observe days and months and seasons and years! I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain.”
While Saturday was the Sabbath under the Law, the early Christians began meeting on Sunday, the first day of the week, in remembrance of Christ’s resurrection (see Mark 16:9). It became known as “the Lord’s Day”.
Acts 20:7 (NIV)
“On the first day of the week we came together to break bread…”
1 Corinthians 16:2 (NIV)
“On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income…”
This shift shows that the day itself was not the focus—what mattered was gathering in the name of Jesus.
Every day belongs to the Lord. Christians are not bound to the Old Covenant Sabbath laws.
Romans 14:5–6 (NIV)
“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord…”
The point is this: worship must come from the heart, not from the calendar.
Yes, regular fellowship is important. While we are free in Christ, we are encouraged not to neglect meeting together with other believers.
Hebrews 10:24–25 (NIV)
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Whether that gathering happens on Saturday, Sunday, or another day, it is the spirit and purpose of the gathering that matters most.
So, when is the “real” Sabbath?
What matters most is that we worship God sincerely, not which day we do it.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
You are not more righteous for worshiping on Saturday, nor are you wrong for worshiping on Sunday. Let your worship be constant, your faith be rooted in Christ, and your rest be found in His finished work.
May the Lord bless you as you walk in His freedom and truth.
1. Jezebel’s Background
Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians (1 Kings 16:31, NIV). The Sidonians, located in what is now modern-day Lebanon, were known for their idolatry and devotion to Baal, a Canaanite storm and fertility god. Ethbaal himself was not only a king but also a priest of Baal, which explains Jezebel’s strong religious convictions and her later influence over Israel’s spiritual decline.
“He not only considered it trivial to commit the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, but he also married Jezebel daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and began to serve Baal and worship him.” – 1 Kings 16:31 (NIV)
2. Jezebel’s Marriage to Ahab
When she married King Ahab of Israel, Jezebel brought her pagan religious practices with her, leading Ahab into Baal worship. Under her influence, temples and altars for Baal were built in Israel (1 Kings 16:32-33). This was a direct violation of the First Commandment, which forbids the worship of other gods (Exodus 20:3-5).
3. Persecution of God’s Prophets
Jezebel wasn’t content with simply introducing Baal worship—she sought to eliminate the worship of Yahweh altogether. She ordered the execution of many of the Lord’s prophets (1 Kings 18:4), while promoting hundreds of prophets of Baal and Asherah (1 Kings 18:19). This led to a spiritual crisis in Israel, culminating in the dramatic confrontation between Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:20-40).
“While Jezebel was killing off the Lord’s prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.” – 1 Kings 18:4 (NIV)
4. Jezebel’s Character and Sorcery
Jezebel is also associated with witchcraft and immorality. Her influence extended beyond politics into the realm of spiritual corruption. In 2 Kings 9:22, Jehu confronts King Joram and accuses Jezebel of idolatry and witchcraft:
“When Joram saw Jehu he asked, ‘Have you come in peace, Jehu?’ ‘How can there be peace,’ Jehu replied, ‘as long as all the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother Jezebel abound?’” – 2 Kings 9:22 (NIV)
She even manipulated legal systems to have Naboth unjustly executed so Ahab could seize his vineyard (1 Kings 21), showing a ruthless and manipulative character.
5. Jezebel in the New Testament
In the Book of Revelation, Jezebel is used as a symbol of a corrupting influence within the church. Jesus, speaking to the church in Thyatira, rebukes them for tolerating a false prophetess likened to Jezebel:
“Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.” – Revelation 2:20 (NIV)
This shows that Jezebel became an archetype of spiritual adultery, manipulation, and false teaching.
6. Jezebel’s Death and Divine Judgment
Jezebel’s death came as prophesied by the prophet Elijah. She was thrown from a window by her own servants at the command of Jehu, trampled by horses, and eaten by dogs—fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy (1 Kings 21:23-24; 2 Kings 9:30-37).
“They went out to bury her, but they found nothing except her skull, her feet and her hands. They went back and told Jehu, who said, ‘This is the word of the Lord that he spoke through his servant Elijah the Tishbite: On the plot of ground at Jezreel dogs will devour Jezebel’s flesh.’” – 2 Kings 9:35-36 (NIV)
7. Jezebel’s Legacy
Jezebel’s daughter, Athaliah, followed her mother’s footsteps in wickedness. She usurped the throne of Judah, murdered members of the royal family, and promoted Baal worship (2 Kings 11:1-3). Jezebel’s legacy was one of spiritual corruption, violence, and rebellion against God, making her one of the most infamous women in biblical history.
Understanding His Origin, Nature, and Role in the Biblical Narrative
The name “Satan” means accuser or adversary. In Scripture, he is described as the one who accuses God’s people before Him day and night (Revelation 12:10, NKJV). His mission is to oppose God’s work and lead humanity away from truth and righteousness.
Before his rebellion, Satan was known as Lucifer, which means “morning star” or “light-bringer”.
“How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations!”
— Isaiah 14:12 (NKJV)
Lucifer was created as a glorious angelic being, a cherub with great beauty, wisdom, and authority in heaven. He held a high rank among angels and served in the very presence of God.
“You were the anointed cherub who covers; I established you; You were on the holy mountain of God; You walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones. You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you.”
— Ezekiel 28:14–15 (NKJV)
These passages are often seen as dual references: while they address earthly kings (Babylon and Tyre), many theologians understand them as symbolic descriptions of Satan’s original state and fall.
Lucifer’s heart became proud because of his beauty and wisdom. He desired to exalt himself above God and sought to be worshiped.
“For you have said in your heart: ‘I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God… I will be like the Most High.’”
— Isaiah 14:13–14 (NKJV)
Through his deception, Lucifer led a rebellion, drawing a third of the angels in heaven to join him.
“His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.”
— Revelation 12:4a (NKJV)
This resulted in a spiritual war in heaven.
“And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan… he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
— Revelation 12:7–9 (NKJV)
After being cast out of heaven, Satan’s activity shifted to earth. He became the deceiver of the world and the tempter of mankind. The spiritual war that began in heaven continues here on earth.
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
— 1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV)
While Satan was defeated in heaven, he still influences the world until the final judgment. This ongoing battle is not just cosmic; it involves every believer. Our spiritual struggle is described clearly in the New Testament:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers… against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
— Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)
Satan’s end is certain. Scripture assures us that he will ultimately be judged and cast into the lake of fire for eternity.
“The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
— Revelation 20:10 (NKJV)
Conclusion:
Satan was once a glorious angel named Lucifer, but pride led to his fall. He now stands as the adversary of God and humanity. However, believers have victory through Jesus Christ, and the Bible assures us that Satan’s time is limited. The war may still be ongoing, but the outcome has already been written—God will triumph.
To determine whether betting is a sin, we must first understand God’s will. You cannot identify what displeases God unless you first know what pleases Him.
When God created human beings and all living creatures—including animals—He placed within us something called conscience. This conscience acts as an internal guide, helping us distinguish between right and wrong. It exists in all living beings (both humans and animals) and carries God’s moral laws within it.
Even without God directly speaking to us about what is right or wrong, our conscience has the ability to recognize when something is not right.
For example, a lion may hunt and kill an antelope, but that same lion will never eat its own cub. Why? Because the conscience within it tells the lion that such an action is wrong. The lion has not been given a written law from God, yet it follows an internal moral law.
Similarly, you will never see a male dog mating with another male dog. Why? Because the conscience inside animals naturally guides them away from such behavior, even though they have physical urges.
Humans are the same way. We also have an inbuilt conscience that carries God’s moral laws. A person may have no knowledge of the Bible or any religious teachings, yet they will still recognize that certain actions—such as killing, mistreating children, or stealing—are wrong.
The conscience does not require written laws to distinguish right from wrong. That is why even animals, despite their instincts, still follow certain moral boundaries.
For example:
A person instinctively knows that abortion is wrong because they understand deep inside that it is taking a life.
A person who takes drugs knows that they are harming themselves.
Someone who engages in masturbation or pornography feels guilt deep inside, even though they may not find a specific Bible verse explicitly calling it a sin.
A person involved in gambling or betting often feels hesitant before starting, sensing that something is not right.
Betting is a form of gambling, which is legalized in many countries but remains morally questionable.
Most people who start betting feel an inner resistance at first. They experience unease, hesitation, and doubt about whether the practice is right. They may even ask others if it is acceptable. These signs should not be ignored. They indicate that their conscience is warning them against something harmful.
Once a person silences that inner voice and proceeds with betting, they eventually lose that initial discomfort and start seeing gambling as “normal.” However, this is a dangerous deception.
Many global betting companies operate under hidden, sinister agendas. These organizations, often run by secret societies such as Freemasons and other occult groups, use gambling profits to:
Fund LGBTQ+ campaigns to promote sexual immorality.
Support abortion rights and the killing of unborn children.
Finance terrorism and criminal activities to create global instability.
Satan uses betting and gambling as a tool to trap people into financial ruin while enriching his kingdom. The Bible warns against the love of money and the desire for quick riches, as these are common tricks the devil uses to lure people into destruction.
“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
Betting makes people obsessed with easy money, and this leads them into spiritual bondage. Many gamblers find themselves:
Addicted to gambling, always returning even after multiple losses.
Struggling financially due to money lost in bets.
Controlled by unseen spiritual forces that keep them in financial and moral ruin.
God does not want His people to seek quick, easy money through gambling. Instead, He teaches that wealth should be earned gradually, through honest work.
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
The Biblical principle is to work diligently and build wealth over time. Any method that promises instant riches, such as gambling or betting, is a trap of the devil.
The answer is NO. Betting is a deceptive scheme designed to enslave people financially and spiritually. It is controlled by satanic forces that use gambling profits to promote evil. Even if the Bible does not explicitly mention betting, the conscience within us warns that it is not right.
If you are involved in betting, the Bible calls you to repent and turn away from it. Instead of seeking quick money, trust in God’s provision and follow His principles for financial success.
“Therefore, ‘Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.’”
God bless you!
After the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt and entered the Promised Land, God commanded them to observe seven major feasts, called the “Feasts of the Lord,” which were to be celebrated throughout all generations. These feasts, described in Leviticus 23, hold deep prophetic meaning, especially for those who follow the New Covenant. Here is a clear explanation of each of the seven feasts and their significance, both for the Israelites and for us today.
Passover, celebrated on the 14th of Nisan (usually March or April), marks the night when the Israelites were spared from the final plague in Egypt. They slaughtered a lamb, applied its blood to their doorframes, and ate it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, dressed and ready to leave. This event commemorates God’s deliverance of Israel from Egyptian slavery.
For Christians, Passover foreshadows Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood was shed for our salvation. At the Last Supper, Jesus revealed He was the fulfillment of this feast as He broke the bread and shared the wine, symbolizing His body and blood. Just as the Israelites were saved from death through the lamb’s blood, Christians believe they are saved from eternal death through the sacrifice of Jesus.
The Feast of Unleavened Bread begins the day after Passover, lasting for seven days (from the 15th of Nisan). During this time, the Israelites were to remove all leaven (yeast) from their homes and eat unleavened bread, symbolizing purity and the need to be free from sin.
For Christians, the unleavened bread represents Jesus as the “Bread of Life” (John 6:35). Just as the Israelites ate unleavened bread during their exodus from Egypt, Christians are called to live holy lives, free from sin (symbolized by leaven), following the teachings of Jesus.
This feast occurs on the Sunday following Passover, the day after the Sabbath, and is a celebration of the first harvest of the season. The Israelites were commanded to bring the first sheaf of grain to the priest as an offering to God, recognizing Him as the source of their provision.
For Christians, the Feast of Firstfruits is directly linked to the resurrection of Jesus, which happened on this very day (Matthew 28:1-10). Jesus is called the “Firstfruits” of those who have died (1 Corinthians 15:20). His resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of all believers, and just as the first portion of the harvest was offered to God, Christ’s resurrection represents the promise that believers, too, will rise again.
Shavuot, or Pentecost, occurs 50 days after Firstfruits, marking the end of the grain harvest. It also commemorates the giving of the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. For Christians, Pentecost is significant because it marks the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples, empowering them to spread the Gospel (Acts 2). This was the beginning of the New Covenant, where God’s Spirit would dwell in believers.
Shavuot also symbolizes the harvest of souls. As the Israelites celebrated the completion of the grain harvest, Christians recognize this feast as a reminder of the harvest of souls and the work of the Holy Spirit in bringing people to faith.
The Feast of Trumpets, celebrated on the 1st of Tishrei (usually September), marks the beginning of the Jewish civil year. It is a time of repentance and reflection, heralded by the blowing of the shofar (ram’s horn), calling the people to prepare for the upcoming High Holy Days, particularly Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement).
For Christians, the Feast of Trumpets points to the future event when Christ will return. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 speaks of a trumpet being sounded when Christ descends from heaven, and the faithful will be caught up to meet Him. This feast symbolizes the coming of Christ’s return, where God will gather His people in the final days.
Yom Kippur, observed on the 10th of Tishrei, is the holiest day in Judaism. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance, during which the high priest would offer sacrifices for the sins of the people to seek God’s forgiveness.
For Christians, Yom Kippur points to the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ, who, as the High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:11-12). While the Israelites once sought forgiveness through the blood of animals, Christ’s sacrifice brought full and final forgiveness. Yom Kippur also foreshadows a time when Israel will recognize Jesus as the Messiah, and national reconciliation with God will occur.
Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles, begins on the 15th of Tishrei and lasts for seven days. During this feast, the Israelites lived in temporary shelters (sukkahs) to remember their time of wandering in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. It was a time of joy, celebrating God’s provision and protection.
For Christians, Sukkot points to the future millennial reign of Christ on earth, when He will dwell among His people in a time of peace and justice (Revelation 21:3, Zechariah 14:16-17). The feast symbolizes the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises, where He will permanently dwell with His people, and His kingdom will be established on earth.
For Christians, these seven feasts are not just historical events but prophetic symbols of God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. Each feast corresponds to a key event in Christ’s life: His sacrifice (Passover), His resurrection (Firstfruits), the giving of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost), His second coming (Trumpets), the atonement for sins (Yom Kippur), and His millennial reign (Tabernacles).
These feasts remind believers of God’s faithfulness and the hope we have in Christ. They also serve as a call to live in anticipation of Christ’s return. The Feast of Trumpets, in particular, signifies that Christ’s return is imminent, and all believers will be gathered to Him when the trumpet sounds.
In conclusion, the seven Jewish feasts are a powerful reminder of God’s redemptive plan, which has been fulfilled in Christ and will be fully realized when He returns. As believers, these feasts encourage us to understand and embrace God’s promises, living faithfully as we await the return of our Savior.
Marriage, according to the Bible, is a sacred and lifelong covenant established by God. The Bible provides clear guidelines on the purpose of marriage, as well as the conditions under which divorce is permitted. Below is a clear and organized explanation of what the Bible says about marriage and divorce.
In Matthew 19:3-8, Jesus gives the foundational view of marriage:
God designed marriage to be a union between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-5).
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh” (Matthew 19:5).
God intended marriage to be a lifelong bond: “What God has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:6).
Marriage was created by God to be a union of love, companionship, and faithfulness. It is meant to be an unbreakable bond that reflects God’s love for His people.
While marriage is intended to be lifelong, the Bible acknowledges that divorce may be necessary under certain circumstances. The primary reasons for divorce outlined in the Bible are:
A) Adultery (Sexual Immorality)
In Matthew 19:9, Jesus allows divorce in the case of adultery:
“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
Adultery is a form of betrayal that breaks the covenant of marriage, and the innocent spouse is permitted to divorce and remarry.
However, forgiveness is encouraged. Just as Christ forgives us for spiritual unfaithfulness, we are encouraged to forgive our spouses and seek reconciliation if possible. Regarding forgiveness, Jesus tells us to forgive “seven times seventy” (Matthew 18:22), which emphasizes that there is no room for divorce unless absolutely necessary. It is far, far, far from God’s ideal, and divorce should be the last option after every effort of reconciliation has been exhausted.
B) Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse
In cases where one spouse is a believer and the other is not, the Bible allows for divorce if the unbelieving spouse chooses to leave. This situation is explained in 1 Corinthians 7:12-16:
If a believing spouse is married to an unbeliever who is willing to live with them, they should stay together.
If the unbelieving spouse chooses to leave, the believer is no longer bound in the marriage, and they are free to remarry.
However, if the unbelieving spouse is willing to stay, the believing spouse is expected to remain faithful.
Remarriage after Divorce: If divorce occurs due to sexual immorality, the innocent spouse is allowed to remarry. However, in cases where divorce happens for any other reason (e.g., disagreements, hardship, etc.), remarriage is not allowed.
1 Corinthians 7:10-11 states: “A wife must not separate from her husband… and a husband must not divorce his wife.” If separation occurs, reconciliation is encouraged.
In the case of a believer being abandoned by an unbelieving spouse, they are free to remarry, but it must be “in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:39).
The Bible emphasizes that marriage should be honored and respected by everyone. In Hebrews 13:4, we read:
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
God takes marriage seriously, and His desire is for couples to remain faithful and committed to each other. Malachi 2:16 expresses God’s disapproval of divorce: “For I hate divorce, says the Lord God of Israel.”
Divorce, according to the Bible, brings spiritual consequences:
It hinders the blessings God wants to bestow on the family.
Children of divorced parents may experience emotional and spiritual consequences, feeling like they have lost the security and stability of both parents.
A broken marriage can also set the individual back spiritually, hindering growth and blessings in their relationship with God.
Therefore, it is essential to work toward healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation, as divorce should be a last resort.
Marriage should be characterized by:
Love and Faithfulness: Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25). Wives are to respect their husbands (Ephesians 5:33).
Forgiveness: Just as Christ forgives our sins, we are called to forgive our spouses. Matthew 18:21-22 tells us to forgive “seventy-seven times,” showing that forgiveness should be abundant and ongoing.
Commitment to Reconciliation: Jesus calls couples to reconcile, and if separation occurs, they should not remarry unless there has been adultery.
Marriage is a gift from God and should be cherished. It is meant to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church. Divorce, though allowed in certain cases, is not God’s ideal, and it is only permitted in the case of sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.
Married couples are encouraged to work through difficulties, seek forgiveness, and remain committed to one another. God’s grace and blessings are available to those who honor their marriage vows and maintain a relationship of love, respect, and faithfulness.
May God bless your marriage and guide you in every step.