The notion that Paul was a “tentmaker,” in the contemporary interpretation of the Bible, holding a secular or business to support his ministry, is not explicitly confirmed in Scripture. Acts 18 describes Paul’s time in Corinth, where he resided with Aquila and Priscilla, both of whom were tentmakers by profession (Acts 18:1-4). During this period, he momentarily collaborated with them while continuing his ministry. However, Acts 18:5 reveals that after Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul dedicated himself entirely to preaching and teaching that Jesus is the Christ.
Paul, despite not relying on financial support from the Corinthians during his ministry among them (2Co 11:7), still faced allegations of hidden motives. This is evident in 2 Corinthians 12:16, where he acknowledges that while he didn’t burden them, they still accused him of being crafty and deceiving them.
Paul states, “Was it a sin for me to humble myself in order to exalt you, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge? I robbed other churches by accepting their support in order to serve you. And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so.” (2Co 11:7-9)
The passage in 2 Corinthians 11:7-9 clearly connects to Acts 18:5, where Luke mentions Timothy and Silas. These two individuals brought the financial support from Macedonia to Paul, enabling him to focus solely on his ministry work.
Furthermore, in his letter to the Philippians, Paul demonstrates that his material needs were met through their unwavering partnership in the Gospel. Philippians 4:10-16 captures his gratitude: “I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that you have finally revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you lacked the opportunity to do so. I understand how to be humbled and how to flourish. I can accomplish all things through him who strengthens me. And you, Philippians, yourselves are aware that at the beginning of the Gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except for you alone. Even in Thessalonica, you sent me assistance for my needs repeatedly.”
The idea of tentmakers supposedly derived from Paul is clearly unfounded. Paul’s view of ministry and support follows the teachings of Jesus, who instructed the apostles in Matthew 10:9-14 not to acquire provisions for their own journey but to rely on the hospitality of those who received their message: “The laborer deserves his food… And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.”
Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 11:1—“You are to imitate me, just as I imitate Christ”—becomes more understandable when we consider how both he and Jesus lived by faith. Paul’s life and ministry were a reflection of Christ’s example, characterized by trust and reliance on God’s provision rather than self-sufficiency. It’s worth noting that many people may not realize that Jesus never performed miracles to meet His daily needs. He didn’t turn stones into bread or multiply loaves for His own sustenance.
Luke’s account in Luke 8:1–3 shows the practical side of Jesus’ ministry: He travelled from town to town with the Twelve, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. While doing so, He and His disciples were supported by women who had experienced His grace—Mary Magdalene, Joanna the wife of Chuza, Susanna, and many others—who ministered to them out of their own resources. This example demonstrates a life of faith, receiving what God provided through the generosity of others.
In the same way, Paul lived and served by faith, relying on God’s provision through the support of fellow believers, mirroring the very pattern set by Christ during His earthly ministry.
Scripture’s teachings humbled me. Instead of seeking ways to support our independent Bible studies, we initially relied solely on our savings and occasional assistance from brethren in Metro Manila. Initially, I even contemplated sending letters to solicit support. However, after reflecting on the ministry principles outlined in Jesus Christ’s life and teachings, I abandoned that plan.
Was it hard? It was, but it became doable when I remembered God’s grace from the very moment I believed. God does not change, and His faithfulness sustains.
This principle is reinforced in Hebrews 13:5-8: “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have… The Lord is my helper; I will not fear…” It reminds believers that Jesus Christ remains constant—yesterday, today, and forever.
Scripture clearly teaches that both those who labour for God and those who support the ministry are united as fellow workers in the truth. As John writes in his letter:
“Beloved, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. They have testified to the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. For they have gone out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the unbelievers. Therefore, we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” (3 John 1:5-8)
This passage highlights the partnership between those who go out to serve and those who uphold them, showing that both share in the mission to advance the truth of God’s Word.
If such faith and reliance on the Lord were possible then, it remains possible now. Our service to the same unchanging Jesus calls us to embrace the faith modeled in Scripture and the ministry journey of the apostles. Ultimately, it all comes down to faith.
P.S. This message is not meant to belittle any of God’s workers who rely on the support of churches or mission organizations. Rather, it stands as a reminder that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He has said, “If you abide in My words, you are truly My disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32) Place your trust in Jesus, even if others may hesitate. In doing so, you will truly experience His grace and goodness, free from human pressures and influences. For those serving in God’s ministry, remember that Jesus Himself commanded that those who proclaim the Gospel should make their living through the Gospel (1 Corinthians 9:14). Likewise, Paul instructed believers: “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches” (Galatians 6:6).
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
The idea of “once saved, always saved” stems from misinterpretations of selected Bible verses by some Christians. These passages seem to imply that God predestines certain individuals for salvation. Yet, a closer and more comprehensive reading of Scripture shows that this belief is inaccurate. The Bible does not universally call all believers the elect; rather, it speaks to a specific generation—the Jews who lived during Jesus’ ministry, the generation that rejected Him and contributed to His crucifixion.
Paul clarified this in Romans 11:1-6, where he spoke of a “remnant chosen by grace”:
> “I ask, then, has God rejected His people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? ‘Lord, they have killed Your prophets, they have demolished Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.’ But what is God’s reply to him? ‘I have kept for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.’ So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.”
Jesus expressed the same principle in several passages:
John 6:38-40 – “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but 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.”
John 6:44 – “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.”
John 6:65 – “This is why I told you that no one can come to Me unless it is granted him by the Father.”
These verses affirm that salvation is achieved not by human effort or desire, but by God’s grace through faith in Christ. The Gospel is the power by which God calls people to faith—not an exclusive key held only for a select group, as extreme interpretations of “election” suggest.
The teaching that God chooses some for salvation and rejects others can breed spiritual arrogance. It is presumptuous to claim such privilege, especially when lives labelled as “elect” sometimes fail to reflect Christ’s character.
Paul’s statement in Romans 11:5—“a remnant chosen by grace”—points to the fulfillment of Old Testament promises found in Isaiah 11:11-16 and Jeremiah 31:31-34:
> “In that day the Lord will extend his hand yet a second time to recover the remnant that remains of his people, from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the coastlands of the sea… And there will be a highway from Assyria for the remnant that remains of his people, as there was for Israel when they came up from the land of Egypt.” (Isaiah 11:11-16)
> “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah… I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people… For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
These passages remind us that God’s covenant and salvation are rooted in His grace, not in human assumptions of guaranteed election.
Christians, live your lives in a way that truly honours Jesus. Do not depend on an empty confession of faith in Him. Genuine Christianity requires a transformed life. One is either a Christian or not; there is no middle ground. May we find inspiration in Paul’s declaration:
> “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6-8)
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
Once again, taking the verse of the day from YouVersion and studying the verse from its context for personal devotion and sharing.
Matthew’s Gospel narrates the story of the wealthy young ruler, shedding light on the challenges posed by prevailing religious beliefs, earthly attachments, and the call to faith in Christ. The young man’s wealth and youth are evident from Matthew 19:22, which states, “When the young man heard this, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” Luke further specifies that he was a ruler (Luke 18:18), and the Greek term used for “ruler” suggests that he was likely a Jewish leader. His question to Jesus—“What must I do to inherit eternal life?”—and his appeal to the Mosaic Law (Matthew 19:17-19) underscore his religious background.
The lesson emerges when Jesus challenges him: “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21). The young ruler’s sorrowful departure shows that love for wealth and perhaps his being a religious leader can hinder genuine discipleship. Even someone who claims to follow the Law cannot secure salvation on their own (Matthew 19:25-27). Jesus’ response, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26), reminds us that salvation comes only through faith in Him, not by works or personal merit.
Jesus’ statement, “But many who are first will be last, and the last first” (Matthew 19:30), is clarified in the parable of the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Both Jews and Gentiles—those who were first recipients of the Gospel and those who are last—are equally recipients of God’s grace. Paul echoes this in Romans 1:16, emphasizing the Gospel’s power for salvation first to the Jew and also to the Greek. And in Ephesians, Paul, taking his teachings from Christ Jesus, states, “Salvation is a gift of grace, not a result of works, so that no one may boast, and we are God’s workmanship created to do good works” (Ephesians 2:8-10).
In God’s kingdom, pride, entitlement, and self-importance have no place. All service—whether in sharing the Gospel, giving, or doing good—is the fruit of God’s workmanship in us. Church leaders, pastors, and elders are partners in ministry, not competitors (3 John 5-8). Yet, many congregations struggle today because leaders either lack biblical training or fail to live by it. True reform requires humble submission to Scripture, abandoning extra-biblical traditions, and patiently modeling obedience for future generations.
To please Christ, there is no other way but to trust Him fully and walk in obedience to His Word. Lasting change is slow, but faithfulness to Scripture will bear fruit in God’s time.
I’ve been eagerly anticipating the transformation in the landscape of Christianity. However, undoubtedly, if more individuals would contribute their own modest efforts, we can achieve greater and more rapid progress together.
I have no illusions that significant change in Christianity will occur soon, but I would be delighted if it does happen soon. Drawing inspiration from Paul’s words, and I hope I am indeed qualified to make the same claim, I would like to modify it slightly to better suit my circumstances: “I have been fighting the good fight, I have hope of completing the race, and I praise Jesus Christ that I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
Jesus declares, “With man, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) In Christ alone, everything is achievable!
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
Here’s the irony of modern Christianity: it often focuses on the visual rather than the true teachings of Jesus Christ. The Jewish custom of washing one’s feet was originally an act of welcoming a guest.
I remember a lesson often repeated by one of my seminary professors: many could deliver a message that sounded moving, yet they relied on the wrong Bible passage, which ended up weakening or distorting its true meaning.
John 13 isn’t just about leadership. It’s about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus was teaching His disciples to share about His grace through the teaching of His Word.
In the warm climate of the ancient Middle East, where people wore open sandals, walked on dry soil, and travelled dusty roads, foot washing was part of hospitality. For example, in Judges 19:20‑21, an old man welcomes a Levite: “Peace be to you; I will care for all your wants. Only, do not spend the night in the square.” He then brought him into his house, fed his donkey, and washed his feet before eating and drinking. Likewise, Abigail, daughter of Nabal, expressed affection and acceptance of David’s offer to take her as wife when she said, “Here is your slave girl as a maidservant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord” (1 Samuel 25:40‑42).
This is the same context we see in John 13:1-14:7, when Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. The narrative begins with John 13:1, where Scripture notes that Jesus, knowing His hour had come, “loved His own who were in the world… to the end.” When Peter resisted, Jesus explained: “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand… If I do not wash you, you have no share with Me” (John 13:7‑8). He also said, “Not all of you are clean” (John 13:11), pointing to Judas’ betrayal.
Jesus’ act was more than humility; it demonstrated that His followers were cleansed and welcomed into the house of God the Father, which Christ was preparing through His death and resurrection (John 14:1‑6). The essence of John 13 is God’s grace through faith in Christ.
As Christians, our calling is not just to replicate the act of foot washing, which has little relevance in our modern context of cemented roads, closed shoes, and car travel, but to share God’s grace through Jesus Christ. Titus 3:4‑8 reminds us that salvation comes not by our works, but by God’s mercy and the washing of regeneration by the Holy Spirit.
The Word of Jesus is life and spirit (John 6:63). Its power is not revealed through random selection of verses, but through understanding the fullness of Scripture and its teachings. To share God’s Word faithfully, we must first be its true disciples. Paul encourages us in 2 Timothy 2:15 to present ourselves as approved workers, rightly handling the word of truth. Likewise, 1 Timothy 4:16 reminds us to be vigilant over our life and doctrine, for by doing so, we bring salvation to both ourselves and those who listen.
Finally, we are warned not to blindly follow anyone, especially hypocritical leaders. As Jesus said in Matthew 15:12‑14, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.”
Let us therefore focus on the real teachings of Christ, share His Word with grace, and walk as true disciples.
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
This posting is bound to stir controversy. However, as we have been guided by God’s Word and come to the realization that we may have been mistaken in our belief, shaped by long‑standing traditions and practices, having recognized the error, shouldn’t we reconsider our stance?
Only those touched by the Gospel of Jesus Christ possess the fervent boldness to express their faith. However, any heated matter will cool down if not constantly maintained. Our faith in Jesus Christ must be continually challenged to ensure that our passion for Christ remains unwavering. The primary adversary of all Christians is the deceptive wolves in sheep’s clothing.
Have you encountered any of these individuals? The Bible states:
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make My dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Therefore, go out from their midst and be separate from them, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me, says the Lord Almighty.’” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)
In Paul’s context, the unbelievers he mentioned are not those outside the Christian faith. Instead, they are the wolves in sheep’s clothing within the church. A deeper understanding of this point can be gained by reading Paul’s letter, as least beginning at 2 Corinthians 2:17-7:1; 10:1-12:21.
The identity of the true church can become blurred when a venue where Christians gather also includes those who are ungodly or unrepentant. Scripture speaking about the church states:
“Do you not know that Christians are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in His church? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
No wonder, Paul called on the church to “purge the evil from within them” (1 Corinthians 5:13). It raises the question: how can we distinguish who truly belongs to the church? Only God knows who truly belongs to Him (2 Timothy 2:19). Confusion arises when human-made buildings or organizations—formed outside the pattern of Scripture—are still called churches. Jesus said in Matthew 16:18,
“On this Rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”
Paul’s perspective on marriages between believers and unbelievers differs from the stance of much of contemporary Christianity. Rather than opposing such unions outright, he presents them as opportunities for the believing spouse to influence and possibly lead the other towards faith. This idea is captured in 1 Corinthians 7:16: “For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?”
The Rock is Christ Himself (1 Corinthians 10:4), and Peter’s confession—“You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God”—confirms this foundation.
Weekly Sunday gatherings are best understood as occasions for Christians to meet, sometimes accompanied by family and friends who may not yet share their faith, to listen to God’s Word.
The Apostle Paul demonstrated this practice by addressing a variety of audiences: he spoke to people in the marketplace and at the Areopagus in Athens (Acts 17:16-34), taught in the Hall of Tyrannus in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10), and preached in the synagogues of Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-4), Berea (Acts 17:10-12), and Antioch (Acts 13:14-16). None of these locations were ever described as churches.
Instead, Scripture points out that early Christians gathered in their own homes, forming house churches, as seen in Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Colossians 4:15, and Philemon 1:1-2. This does not imply that believers never assembled in larger spaces for fellowship among themselves, but no building was ever called a church in the biblical sense. Jesus Christ, when teaching about matters of the church, said:
“For where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
The essence of the church is not tied to a specific building or location, but to the fellowship of believers who gather in the name of Christ. This truth is affirmed in John 4:21-24, where worship is shown to transcend physical spaces, focusing instead on spirit and truth.
“Believe Me, woman,” Jesus replied, “a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:21-24)
Paul urges Christians to dedicate their lives as a living act of spiritual worship. He instructs believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. Through this transformation, we gain the ability to discern and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)
Christians frequently invoke 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers,” to dissuade marriages between different denominations, like a Roman Catholic and an evangelical Christian. Yet, they seem to overlook the threat posed by wolves in sheep’s clothing among their own congregations. This creates an irony: the very misuse of 2 Corinthians 6:14 pressures believers to marry solely within their circle, even if some within that circle may, in fact, be spiritual pretenders.
I posed this question online: Are Christians allowed to be unequally yoked? Here’s the response:
Christians are not permitted to be unequally yoked, according to the teachings of the Bible. The phrase “unequally yoked” comes from 2 Corinthians 6:14, which advises believers not to form binding partnerships with non-believers. This guidance applies to marriage, close friendships, and business relationships where values and life directions might conflict.
Being yoked together implies moving in the same direction and sharing a purpose. If one partner does not share the same faith, it can lead to spiritual struggles, conflicts in values, and difficulty in walking in God’s will. Therefore, Christians are encouraged to seek relationships that strengthen their faith and align with biblical principles.
I fully agree with the second part of the response. However, it appears excessive to completely avoid business relationships or close friendships with unbelievers. This is easily refuted by Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 5:9-13.
“I wrote you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. I was not including the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business of mine is it to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. ‘Expel the wicked man from among you.’” (1 Corinthians 5:9-13)
Moreover, Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 7 offer a different perspective on marriage. The principle of “garbage in, garbage out” is evident in the AI’s response. We must exercise caution and discernment with information from the internet.
Christianity generally holds that 2 Corinthians 6:14 applies to marriage. However, its intended context and application are for the church, similar to Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 5:9-13.
Here are the key points on marriage from Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:
“To the rest I say (I, not the Lord) that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her. If any woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she should not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is made holy because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy because of her husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.” (1Co 7:12-17)
It’s easy to select, quote verses, and make judgments. However, every verse in Scripture has its context, and each context addresses a specific concern. Let’s avoid misinterpretation and misapplication of God’s Word.
Let us share our faith with our unbelieving loved ones, including those with unbelieving partners. We should share our faith without enforcing it. Faith is best demonstrated through our actions and lifestyle.
Let me repeat Paul’s message:
“For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.” (1Co 7:16-17)
Apparently, the problem isn’t having an unbelieving partner, but rather when the believing person compromises their faith.Instead of living a life of faith to influence their unbelieving partners, they submit to their ways. This is where the issue lies.
Of course, the ideal marriages should be between fellow believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. However, it’s also important to recognize that we only truly get to know the person we’ve married when we’ve lived together under one roof. In such a scenario, the ideal setting may not always be as perfect as we imagine. So, perhaps there goes Paul’s teaching for all churches. (1 Corinthians 7)
Important to note, however, was Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:15. He emphasized, “But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases, the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.” This teaching reminds Christians not to compromise their faith within a marriage with an unbeliever. If the unbelieving spouse refuses to accept or live peacefully with your faith, you are called to let them go, so that you may live in the peace God intends and freely practice your faith.
Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 7:17 is striking: he emphasises that his instructions are not mere suggestions, but a rule for all the churches. This shows the weight and authority of his words, meant to guide the believers collectively, not just optional advice for individual interpretation.
In my 26 years of being a Christian, I’ve encountered numerous non-Christians who live according to some teachings of Jesus. For instance, they follow Jesus’ teachings,
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
They are aware of what is harmful to them and refrain from doing it to others, and vice versa. They do what is good to them to others. On the other hand, I’ve also come across a significant number of professing Christians who are actually devilish and engage in actions contrary to the Bible. Some of these actions are openly displayed, while others are kept secret or done in the dark. In such cases, it becomes challenging to discern who is truly far from God’s kingdom.
The Bible told of a story of a man who approached Jesus with a question. After Jesus responded, another person remarked,
“To love God with all your heart, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself, is far greater than all the sacrifices and offerings.”
Jesus then stated, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34) This story is found in Mark 12:28-34. The only missing element was a confession of faith in Jesus Christ.
Let me be clear: Salvation is not something that can be passed on to others. Not even to our partners in life, sons or daughters. It is a personal journey that involves a sincere confession of faith in Christ Jesus. This confession acknowledges that without Jesus, no one can earn eternal life. A true confession of faith in Jesus Christ demands a profound transformation in one’s believes, character and values.
The responsibility of living for Jesus rests on us who believe, and we are tasked not only to live our faith but teach it to our husbands or wives, and most especially to our children. Now, after faithfully doing our Christian duty, the rest is upon God’s grace. Paul states,
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (1Co 3:6-7)
Christians are called to live in accordance with the teachings of the Bible, allowing God’s Word to shape and transform their lives for His glory. Regarding marriage, Paul recognized its inherent complexities. In 1 Corinthians 7:12, he begins with, “To the rest I say (I, not the Lord),” expressing pastoral counsel that carefully considers the nuances of the situation. This phrasing reflects his unique role as a divinely inspired writer of Scripture, as affirmed in 2 Peter 1:20-21. In contrast, modern pastors, though able to offer wise guidance, cannot claim the same level of authority as Paul did in his inspired writings.
Servants of God’s Word, we are called to present ourselves as approved before Him: diligent workers, unashamed, and rightly handling the Word of truth, as written in 2 Timothy 2:15. This command was given to Timothy and speaks to us today, we who profess to be called by Jesus to teach and share His Word. As we seek to guide others, let us avoid unnecessary complications. In matters of marriage, let us faithfully lean on God’s instructions found in 1 Corinthians 7, using His Word as our clear and unwavering guide.
May this article shed light on the topic of mixed marriages. Pray, read the Bible, and always be guided by Scripture. May the grace of God be upon everyone who reads this article.
P.S. I’m open to reconsider my stance if someone can provide a more effective teaching on this subject. However, these are the teachings I’ve encountered in Scripture.
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
Unlearning Tradition, Relearning Scripture 