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WHAT IS THE CHURCH?

What is the church?.. What is the Church of God?

This is a question that confuses many people, with the common assumption being that the church is a building. However, that is not the true meaning of the church. The word “church” comes from the Greek word Ekklesia, meaning “the called out.” During the New Testament era, any gathering of Christians (i.e., those who were called) was referred to as a church. And such a gathering could consist of just two or more people, according to the words of Jesus Christ Himself, who said in:

Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them.”

So, it was understood that wherever believers in Christ gathered—whether in a home, in a temple, in a synagogue, or anywhere else in His name, regardless of the surrounding environment—then that was already a church.

Galatians 1:13
“For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it.”

Do you see? That sentence doesn’t refer to a church as a building, but rather “Christians.” Paul is the one who persecuted and harmed them. So, what is the church? It is a gathering of people who are called (or in simpler terms, Christians).

Therefore, in short, any non-Christian gathering—that is, one that does not acknowledge Christ as the head of that gathering—no matter how big it is, no matter how many crosses the building may have, no matter how orderly it is, it is not a biblical church. It is like a body without a head—it is dead. Likewise, any gathering without Christ cannot be a church.

Ephesians 1:20-23
“[God] exerted [his mighty strength] when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,
21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church,
23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

AMEN.

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What is the Bible?

The Bible is the inspired Word of God, a collection of sacred books that reveal His plan for humanity. The name Bible comes from the Greek word Biblia, meaning “books.” A single book is called Biblion, but when referring to multiple books, the term Biblia is used.

It is not just an ordinary book—it is the divine revelation of God’s will, character, and redemptive plan for mankind. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV) affirms this:

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Who Wrote the Bible?

The Bible was written over a span of approximately 1,500 years by more than 40 authors from different backgrounds, including kings (David, Solomon), prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah), doctors (Luke), fishermen (Peter, John), and tax collectors (Matthew). Despite their differences in time, culture, and profession, their writings carry a unified message—God’s love and plan for salvation.

Though human hands penned the words, the Holy Spirit inspired them, ensuring that every message was according to God’s will (2 Peter 1:20-21, NKJV).

The Structure of the Bible

The Bible is divided into two main parts:

  1. The Old Testament (39 books) – Also known as the First Covenant, it details creation, the history of Israel, God’s laws, and prophecies about the coming Messiah. It includes:

    • The Law (Torah/Pentateuch) – Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

    • Historical Books – Joshua, Judges, Ruth, etc.

    • Wisdom Literature – Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes

    • Prophetic Books – Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, etc.

  2. The New Testament (27 books) – Also called the Second Covenant, it fulfills the Old Testament prophecies and focuses on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the birth of the Church. It includes:

    • The Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke, John (life and teachings of Jesus)

    • Acts – The history of the early Church

    • Epistles (Letters) – Written by Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude

    • Revelation – A prophetic book about Christ’s second coming

The Central Message of the Bible

At the heart of the entire Bible is one person—Jesus Christ. In John 5:39 (NKJV), Jesus Himself said:

“You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.”

From Genesis to Revelation, every book either foreshadows, proclaims, or explains the work of Christ. In the Old Testament, He is prophesied as the coming Savior. In the New Testament, He is revealed as the Son of God who fulfilled these prophecies.

Why is the Bible Important?

  1. It is God’s direct revelation to humanity – Unlike any other book, the Bible is the primary way God speaks to His people today.

  2. It is a guide for life – Psalm 119:105 (NKJV) says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

  3. It contains the only way to salvation – Jesus said in John 14:6 (NKJV), “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

  4. It is spiritually alive and powerful – Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) states, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.”

  5. It prepares believers for eternity – The Bible not only teaches us how to live but also reveals God’s eternal plan for His people.

Conclusion

The Bible is more than a religious book—it is the living Word of God. It reveals His will, teaches His truth, and leads people to eternal life through Jesus Christ. No other book in history has changed lives, shaped nations, and stood the test of time like the Bible.

To understand God and His plan, one must study His Word, believe in Jesus Christ, and follow His teachings.

 
 
 
 

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What Is Religion, and What Is True Faith?

At some point, many of us ask:
What exactly is religion? What qualifies as true religion? And what does true faith look like in God’s eyes?

1. Understanding Religion

Religion, at its core, is a set of beliefs and practices that stem from a person’s faith in something greater—usually a deity or a spiritual force. These beliefs often lead to certain moral codes, rituals, and ways of life.

Whenever someone acknowledges the existence of a divine or spiritual power—whether it’s God, spirits, or even false gods—that belief gives rise to a structure of worship and devotion. That structure is what we call religion.

You can observe this in various faiths around the world. For example, Buddhists follow specific routines such as meditation, wearing symbolic clothing, or practicing self-denial. These actions are not random—they are religious responses to what they believe about ultimate reality.

Even in Christianity, religious practices exist. A believer in Jesus Christ often develops habits like daily prayer, fasting, attending church services, tithing, and serving others. While these don’t save us, they are expressions of a life transformed by faith.

But the Bible makes a clear distinction between empty religion and true religion.

James 1:26–27 (NIV):
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

True religion, according to Scripture, is not just about rituals—it’s about compassion, holiness, and living out the heart of God.

2. Religion Alone Does Not Save

This is where Christianity fundamentally differs from many other religions. In some belief systems, practicing the religion faithfully is enough for salvation. But in Christianity, salvation is not earned through religious acts.

Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV):
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

No matter how often you fast, pray, or attend church—if you have not placed your trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, those acts are spiritually empty.

Jesus made this clear in speaking to the religious leaders of His day, who were outwardly devout but inwardly far from God:

Matthew 23:27 (NIV):
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit

True Christian life involves more than external religion—it requires the presence of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in every true believer.

Romans 8:9 (NIV):
“…And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”

The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, empowers, and transforms the believer from within. Without Him, religious activity becomes lifeless and legalistic.

4. What Is True Faith?

Now that we’ve distinguished religion from salvation, let’s define true faith.

True faith is the personal, confident trust in Jesus Christ—the Son of God—as the only Savior who died for our sins and rose again.

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.’”

Faith in Jesus isn’t just mental agreement—it’s a surrender of the heart and life. It’s trusting Him alone for the forgiveness of sins, not our own righteousness.

Romans 10:9–10 (NIV):
“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. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

Any faith that denies the divinity of Christ, His sacrificial death, or His resurrection is not true biblical faith—it leads people away from salvation.

5. Why Religion Without Christ Isn’t Enough

You can be religious and still spiritually lost. You might fast, give to charity, and attend every service—but without a relationship with Jesus, it’s all in vain.

Matthew 7:22–23 (NIV):
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”

6. Religion as a Support to Faith

That said, when religion is grounded in true faith, it becomes valuable. It helps build discipline, encourages spiritual growth, and supports a godly life—just like how a good school supports a student’s learning.

But just like a student still needs to study and do their part, a religious environment doesn’t automatically mean someone has true faith. It must be personal and authentic.

7. An Urgent Invitation

If you’ve been trusting in religion alone, now is the time to place your full faith in Jesus Christ. The door of grace is still open—but not forever.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV):
“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

Turn to Him today. Repent of your sins, believe in the gospel, and receive new life. He promises to forgive and restore anyone who comes to Him.

1 John 1:9 (NIV):
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Conclusion

Religion can guide, but only faith in Jesus Christ saves. Don’t boast in religion—boast in the cross of Christ. That is where true hope and eternal life are found.

Galatians 6:14 (NIV):
“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”

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

 

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Do Pets Go to Heaven?

This is one of those questions that comes up when someone’s lost a pet they really loved. And honestly, it’s a fair question—our pets are family. They’re not just animals; they’re companions, comforters, and little sparks of joy in our daily lives.

So, what does the Bible actually say about this?

What We Can Tell from Scripture

 Animals Are Part of God’s Good Creation

Back in Genesis 1:25, it says:

“God made the wild animals… and God saw that it was good.”

That one line tells us a lot. Animals are part of God’s creation, and not just as an afterthought. They’re included in what He called “good.” That means they matter.

 Animals Show Up in the Vision of a Restored World

There’s a beautiful image in Isaiah 11:6-9 of what the world will look like when God sets everything right. It talks about wolves living peacefully with lambs, and leopards lying down with goats. It’s a picture of harmony—and animals are right there in it.

That doesn’t necessarily mean our specific pets will be there, but it does show that animals are part of God’s vision for the future.

Do Animals Have Souls Like Humans?

This is where things get a little less clear. Ecclesiastes 3:21 says:

“Who knows whether the spirit of man goes upward and the spirit of the beast goes down into the earth?”

Some people read this and think animals don’t have eternal souls like we do. Others think the verse is more about mystery—that we just don’t know for sure what happens to animals after they die. And that’s okay. There are some things God hasn’t laid out in black and white.

So… What Should We Believe?

Truthfully, the Bible doesn’t give us a direct yes or no. But what it does show us is a God who is deeply loving, full of compassion, and who created animals for a reason. He knows how much they mean to us, and He’s not indifferent to that.

So even if we don’t have all the answers, there’s nothing wrong with holding on to hope. If our pets brought us joy, comfort, and love here, it’s not hard to imagine a God who might include them in the life to come.

The Bottom Line

  • The Bible doesn’t spell it out clearly.
  • But animals are important to God—they’re part of His good creation.
  • Many people believe it’s okay to hope we’ll see them again one day.

In the end, we trust in a God who sees the whole picture and cares deeply about the things we love. That includes our pets.

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Who is Azazel as mentioned in Leviticus 16:8?

“He is to cast lots for the two goats—one lot for the Lord and the other for the scapegoat.”

Some Bible versions, like the KJV, use the term Azazel instead of “scapegoat.” So what does it really mean?

Answer:

Azazel is not a person, angel, or demon (as some traditions or interpretations suggest), but rather the name used to identify one of the two goats involved in Israel’s annual Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) ceremony, described in Leviticus 16.

On this sacred day, observed on the 10th day of the 7th month of the Hebrew calendar (Leviticus 16:29, NIV), the High Priest performed a special ritual to atone for the sins of the entire nation of Israel.

Two Goats, Two Purposes (Leviticus 16:7–10, NIV):

“Then he is to take the two goats and present them before the Lord at the entrance to the tent of meeting. He is to cast lots for the two goats—one lot for the Lord and the other for the scapegoat (Azazel). Aaron shall bring the goat whose lot falls to the Lord and sacrifice it for a sin offering. But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the Lord to be used for making atonement by sending it into the wilderness as a scapegoat.”

One goat was sacrificed—its blood sprinkled on the mercy seat in the Most Holy Place to atone for sin (Leviticus 16:15-16).


The second goat (Azazel) remained alive. The High Priest laid his hands on its head and confessed over it all the sins of the Israelites, symbolically transferring the nation’s guilt to the animal.

Symbolism and Theological Significance:

Leviticus 16:21-22 (NIV):

“He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites—all their sins—and put them on the goat’s head. He shall send the goat away into the wilderness… The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a remote place; and the man shall release it in the wilderness.”

This ceremony was a profound picture of removal and separation from sin, as the goat bore the people’s sins “into a solitary place.”

In Hebrew, the word Azazel could mean “the goat of removal” or “complete removal.” The NIV and many modern versions translate this as scapegoat, highlighting the symbolic act of the goat taking on the community’s sin and being sent away—never to return.

Christ: The Fulfillment of the Scapegoat (Azazel)

This Old Testament ritual foreshadowed Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled both roles of the two goats:

  1. As the sacrificial goat—Christ died as a sin offering.

    “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” — 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV)

  2. As the scapegoat (Azazel)—Christ bore our sins and removed them.

    “He was led like a lamb to the slaughter… and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” — Isaiah 53:6–7 (NIV)

  3. Carried outside the camp—Jesus, like the scapegoat, was taken outside the city to die:

    “And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.” — Hebrews 13:12 (NIV)

Unlike the ritual that had to be repeated annually (Hebrews 10:1-4), Jesus offered Himself once for all time:

“But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.” — Hebrews 10:12 (NIV)

Conclusion:

Azazel represents the powerful image of sin being completely removed from the people. In the New Testament, this image is fulfilled in Christ, who not only paid for our sins but also removed them permanently. Through Him, we are not just ceremonially clean—we are eternally forgiven.

What joy to know that in Christ, your sins are not only forgiven—they’re forgotten.
“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” — Psalm 103:12 (NIV)

Be encouraged. Be free. Be blessed.

 

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Are Tattoos Biblically Acceptable?

What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos? Is Getting a Tattoo a Sin?

Answer: The Bible gives clear instructions regarding how we should treat our bodies. In Leviticus 19:28, God commands:

“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”

This command was given to the Israelites at a time when surrounding pagan nations practiced body cutting and tattooing as part of rituals to honor their gods and the dead. God set His people apart, instructing them not to imitate these customs. This shows that body markings were not just physical decorations but carried deeper spiritual meanings.

The Biblical Purpose of Our Bodies

Our bodies are not just shells for existence—they are meant to be temples of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in:

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”

A temple is a place of worship, sacred and dedicated to God alone. If our bodies are truly temples of the Holy Spirit, they should not be used as canvases for worldly symbols but should reflect purity and holiness.

The Origin of Tattoos and Their Spiritual Implications

Many people today get tattoos for fashion, personal meaning, or self-expression. However, the origin of tattooing is deeply tied to spiritual and ritualistic practices. In ancient times, tattoos were used for:

>> Pagan Worship – Many cultures believed that tattooing certain symbols or names of gods would grant them protection, power, or favor.

>> Ritual Initiations – Some tribes marked their bodies to dedicate themselves to spirits or deities.

>>> Spiritual Protection – People believed tattoos could protect them from evil spirits or curses.

Because these practices were driven by beliefs in supernatural forces outside of God, those who engaged in them unknowingly invited spiritual influences into their lives. Even today, many tattoo designs—such as serpents, skulls, or mysterious symbols—still carry deep spiritual connotations.

The Bible warns against unknowingly participating in practices that have hidden spiritual dangers:

Hosea 4:6

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

When we act without understanding the origins of certain practices, we can unintentionally open spiritual doors that do not align with God’s will.

Does Having a Tattoo Affect Your Spiritual Life?

Many people may argue that their tattoos are harmless, especially if they were done without any spiritual intent. However, it is important to understand that:

Tattoos can carry unseen spiritual weight – Just as charms and amulets can carry spiritual significance, so can markings on the body.

They do not align with God’s call for holiness – God calls us to be set apart, not conforming to the patterns of the world (Romans 12:2).

–They can serve as a permanent reminder of past beliefs or mistakes – Even if a tattoo was done innocently, it still carries a representation that may not glorify God.

While having a tattoo does not make someone evil or beyond redemption, it is important to assess whether it truly honors God.

What Should You Do If You Already Have a Tattoo?

If you got a tattoo before knowing these biblical principles, do not feel condemned. God’s grace is sufficient, and His power to cleanse and renew us is greater than any mistake we have made.

If possible, consider removing tattoos that represent things that contradict your faith. The goal is to ensure that every part of your life, including your body, reflects Christ.

If removal is not an option, rededicate your body to God, asking Him to remove any spiritual connections linked to the tattoo and to use your life as a testimony of His grace.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Holiness

As believers, our focus should always be on glorifying God in everything we do. Before making any decision regarding tattoos, ask yourself:

Does this honor God?

Does it align with Scripture?

Would Jesus have done this?

God calls us to be separate from the world and to walk in purity:

2 Corinthians 6:17

“Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”

Rather than following cultural trends, let us seek to honor God in all aspects of our lives, including how we treat our bodies.

Be blessed in the Lord!

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What is the Book of Jashar Mentioned in 2 Samuel 1:17–18?

Question:
In 2 Samuel 1:17–18 (NKJV), we read:
“Then David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son, and he told them to teach the children of Judah the Song of the Bow; indeed it is written in the Book of Jashar.”
What exactly is this Book of Jashar, and what can we learn from its mention in Scripture?

Understanding the Book of Jashar

The Book of Jashar (also spelled Jasher) is an ancient Hebrew literary work that is mentioned in two places in the Old Testament:

  1. Joshua 10:13 (NKJV) –
    “So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the people had revenge upon their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar?”

  2. 2 Samuel 1:18 (NKJV) –
    “…Indeed it is written in the Book of Jashar.”

The Hebrew word “Yashar” (יָשָׁר) means “upright” or “righteous.” So, the Book of Jashar literally translates to “The Book of the Upright” or “Book of the Righteous.” It appears to have been a collection of poetic songs or heroic accounts about significant events and notable figures in Israel’s history. Though the book itself is not part of the biblical canon, its mention within the Bible implies it was a respected and widely known historical source during that time.

Why is it Important?

Theological insight into the Book of Jashar helps us understand several key truths:

1. God Works Through History

The Bible is not only a book of spiritual truths and prophecy—it is also rooted in real, historical events. By referencing external sources like the Book of Jashar, the Bible confirms that the faith of Israel was grounded in reality. Just as Luke 1:1–4 shows that early Christians valued eyewitness testimony and accurate records, so too did the Israelites.

2. Scripture Doesn’t Hide Other Sources

God inspired the authors of Scripture to acknowledge other documents when necessary—not to validate Scripture itself, but to confirm the authenticity of shared history. As 2 Corinthians 13:1 says, “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.”

The Book of Jashar acts as one of those witnesses, just as modern theologians may reference historical documents, church fathers, or archeological findings to support biblical truth.

3. Not All Ancient Books Are Inspired

It’s important to note that just because the Bible references another book doesn’t mean that book is divinely inspired or should be included in the canon. For example:

  • Numbers 21:14 (NKJV) mentions the Book of the Wars of the Lord.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:29 (NKJV) references records by Samuel, Nathan, and Gad.

  • 1 Kings 14:29 (NKJV) refers to the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah.

These books served a historical function but were not preserved as part of the inspired Word of God. As 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV) reminds us: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God…”—and only those books recognized by God’s people and affirmed by Jesus and the apostles fall into that category.

Modern Parallels and Confirmation

Interestingly, even outside the Bible, certain truths are echoed by other religious texts. For example, the Qur’an, while not considered inspired by Christian doctrine, acknowledges:

  • Jesus was born of a virgin (Qur’an 3:45–47),

  • He was sinless (Qur’an 19:19),

  • And He will return again (Qur’an 43:61).

This doesn’t validate the Qur’an as divine, but it does reinforce the historical presence and uniqueness of Jesus—even in non-Christian traditions. As Philippians 2:10–11 (NKJV) declares:
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.”

Final Reflection: Why Does This Matter?

Some may say, “I don’t believe the Bible. I think stories like the virgin birth or Jesus’ return are myths.” But the existence of multiple independent sources—biblical and extra-biblical—confirming key events should challenge that skepticism.

God has not left Himself without witness. The Book of Jashar, though lost to us today, stands as evidence that God’s acts in history were public, memorable, and recorded even outside of Scripture. But God’s greatest witness is His Son.

John 14:6 (NKJV): “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

Acts 17:30–31 (NKJV): “God… now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained…”

Jesus is coming again. The door of grace is still open, but not forever.

Repent and believe. Jesus is the only hope.

Be blessed.

 

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Why does God allow suffering and evil?

ANSWER:
First, we must understand that it is not God’s will for us to experience suffering or evil. However, there are challenges and hardships that God allows for a purpose. These may be to teach us, show us His glory, or warn us. Ultimately, these hardships can lead to a good outcome, which is why the Apostle Paul wrote in

2 Corinthians 12:9:
“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

There are also troubles caused by humans themselves. These are choices we make, and God cannot prevent all of them because He has given us free will. Just like a wise parent may give advice to a child who is about to make a wrong decision, but cannot force them to listen, God allows us to make our own choices. Even though He sees the consequences, He does not force us to obey. If we choose wrongly, He may warn us, but He respects our freedom to choose.

This is the same with God. He sees the harm that could come to us and wishes to prevent it, but the decision to follow or not is ours. God will warn us and show us the potential outcomes of our choices, but the decision to listen or ignore that advice is ultimately up to us.

God has given us the ability to choose. If a person chooses to continue in sin despite God’s warnings, He cannot force them to stop. For example, if someone continues in sinful behavior like adultery, even though God has clearly said that such people will not inherit the kingdom of God, He allows them to make that choice. While God knows the end result of their actions, He does not force them to change.

Even when Satan turned away from God, God warned him but did not force him to repent. Satan’s decision to rebel was his own choice. And similarly, we have the freedom to choose whether to follow God’s guidance or not. God does not force us.

God created us with the ability to make decisions. He gives us the option to accept or reject His advice. He is always there to warn us, guide us, and help us avoid the consequences of evil, but He will not force us to follow Him.

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Where did Cain find his wife after killing his brother Abel?

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.

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What is Zion?

To understand the meaning of Zion, we must trace it from its historical roots to its spiritual fulfillment in Christ and the Church.

1. Historical Origin of Zion

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.

2. Zion as God’s Dwelling Place

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.

3. Zion as a Symbol of God’s 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.

4. Zion in the New Covenant

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.

5. Jesus Christ: The Cornerstone of Zion

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).

6. Zion as the Fulfillment of God’s Redemptive Plan

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.

Conclusion: Our Place in Zion

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.

 

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