Unlearning Tradition, Relearning Scripture

Category: Personal

  • It’s about Faith

    Not everyone has the privilege of inheriting great wealth from parents or the like. Yes, everyone likes an easy and comfortable life. But not everyone will win the lottery and become an instant millionaire. Some worked hard, sacrificing themselves to build a fortune but with an unfortunate cost. Never allow yourselves to be caught flat-footed.

    Jesus Christ said, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15)

    Life can be simple and yet enjoyable. You don’t need to have a fancy house or car. Just work for a decent living. Enough to sustain your everyday needs, extras for simple pleasures, and a little bit more for personal and emergency savings.

    The Bible said, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” (Proverbs 13:11)

    Scripture also states, “The blessing of the LORD makes rich, and He adds no sorrow to it.” (Proverbs 10:22)

    Trust and rely on God’s grace and faithfulness. It’s better to rent an apartment and avoid unnecessary financial strain. While buying a property for the long term may seem desirable and ideal, it’s inherently risky. Only invest in real estate when you can pay for it in cash or with a short-term loan. Remember, no one can predict the future, especially in the long run. A sudden illness or an unexpected tragedy could easily derail your financial plans. Consider the second-hand car market. There are many unpaid loans, so cars are piled up in bank storehouses. And that’s just for a five-year loan.

    Once again, Jesus Christ teaches against the desire for earthly wealth, emphasizing that the land of a wealthy man yielded abundant crops. Concerned about where to store his surplus, he decided to demolish his barns and construct larger ones. He envisioned himself saying to his soul, “Soul, you have accumulated ample goods for many years; relax, enjoy, and be merry.” However, God rebuked him, saying, “Fool! Tonight, your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared belong to God.” This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions, as those who accumulate treasure for themselves are not truly rich toward God. (Luke 12:16-21)

    Don’t let material wealth deplete your spiritual well-being. Appearances can be misleading. Not everyone living in luxurious mansions or high-end communities is financially secure. Many, if not most, are burdened by substantial debts. Even those who appeared to be millionaires often left behind a legacy of financial obligations.

    Life is fleeting, and children grow up rapidly. Cherish your marriage and seize the opportunity to guide your children toward independence, responsibility, and a deep faith in God. Recognize that genuine societal transformation is impossible if families and individuals are fundamentally corrupt. Change begins with us individually. Initiate positive change with your spouse. Commit to discarding unproductive traits or habits that contradict the teachings of Scripture. Only then can both parents impart the same values to their children. As spiritually healthy family sizes increase, sustainable change within society can be initiated numerically, and so on.

    Not everyone has found a suitable partner in their faith. However, Christians are called to bear their cross and follow Jesus Christ. Refer to Matthew 10:34-38 for further insight. The Lord Jesus Christ declared, “Do not believe that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to divide a person against their father, a daughter against their mother, and a daughter-in-law against their mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those within their own household. Whoever loves their father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me, and whoever loves their son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And whoever refuses to take their cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.”

    Was Jesus rude or emotionally detached? No, He wasn’t. Understand that Adam loved Eve more than God, which led him to transgress God’s covenant (Hosea 6:7; Genesis 3:6; 17; 1Tim 2:14). As a creation of God, both male and female, humans were designed to have children and propagate life (Genesis 1:27). Loving created things, including spouses, children, or any human relationship, over God is detestable to Him (Romans 1:18-25; Matthew 10:34-38). It’s important to note that the Bible didn’t teach us to hate each other; instead, Christians should love God above all things (Matthew 22:37-40; Mark 12:28-31).

    See also the Bible’s teaching on spouses, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, His body, and is Himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her, that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that He might present the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way, husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of His body. “Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” (Ephesians 5:22-33)

    Therefore, be cautious not to misrepresent biblical teachings. God’s purpose is to redeem His creation from corruption. However, the complexity of life and human relationships often hinder this process. In response, Christ Jesus challenges and calls on Christians to prioritize holding onto Him. Afterward, trust God’s grace to also work on your loved ones. As Jesus said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).” This doesn’t imply that God will magically make your spouse, children, and loved ones believe in Christ Jesus. Instead, now that you’re a Christian, you may influence them through your life and actions to also believe in Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Timothy 4:16; 1 Peter 3:1-2).

    Jesus Christ, in His teaching about His kingdom and its growth, said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown, it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.” (Matthew 13:31-33)

    Every Christian is mandated with the task of expanding God’s kingdom. But hypocrisy, deceptions, and lies within Christianity have complicated the proclamation of the Gospel.

    So let us be Christians first and through and through. Then our Gospel message would be attractive to the lost. So Jesus Christ said, “And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Luke 12:29-34)

    In that passage, Jesus Christ was teaching about maintaining the right focus and faith in God. Many professing Christians were completely taken aback by Christ’s command to “sell everything and give it to the needy” during His encounter with the wealthy young ruler (Matthew 19:21; Luke 18:22). Their downfall was their inability to comprehend the heart of Jesus Christ. It all boils down to the focus of our hearts. No one can genuinely desire to love both God and money and be a true Christian. Jesus Christ made it clear, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

    So that is also why Scripture teaches, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” (1 Timothy 6:9-10)

    Faith and carvings for money simply cannot go together. Instead, the Bible teaches “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for He has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5), and again Scripture says, “So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:6-8)

    Keep the faith, trusting God not only for your salvation, but more so, concerning the lesser things, our provision for life. Because Jesus Christ said “So then, don’t worry saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For the unconverted pursue these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But above all pursue His kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:31-33)

    In conclusion, abandon your pursuit of trivial matters in life. Instead, focus on the most significant aspect of life: the salvation of our souls. Peter, the apostle of Christ Jesus, said, “Though you have not seen Him [Christ Jesus], you love Him. Though you do not now see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” ( 1 Peter 1:8-9)

    The Christian life revolves around faith and living in accordance with it. Never let temporary setbacks in life derail your path. Focusing excessively on minor matters diverts you from the true Christian walk, making it risky and potentially dangerous.

    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 freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!

  • The Sufficiency Of The Gospel

    Jesus performed two feeding miracles. On both occasions, the crowd was gathered with Him in a desolate place: the feeding of the five thousand Jews and the feeding of the four thousand Gentiles (Matthew 15:32-39; Mark 8:1-10). The miracle of feeding the five thousand is mentioned in all four gospels of the New Testament, while only Matthew and Mark record the feeding of the four thousand Gentiles (see Matthew 15:29-38).

    “Jesus went on from there and walked beside the Sea of Galilee. And He went up on the mountain and sat down there. And great crowds came to Him, bringing with them the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and they put them at His feet, and He healed them, so that the crowd wondered, when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled healthy, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they glorified the God of Israel. Then Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with Me now three days and have nothing to eat. And I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.” And the disciples said to Him, “Where are we to get enough bread in such a desolate place to feed so great a crowd?” And Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven, and a few small fish.” And directing the crowd to sit down on the ground, He took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks He broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over. Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children.”

    Take note of Matthew 15:31 in bold letters. After Jesus fed the four thousand, the crowd recognized that His deeds were from the God of Israel. This indicates that the crowd consisted of Gentiles. In contrast, after the feeding of the five thousand, the crowd acknowledged the significance of Jesus’ sign and said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!” This statement, found in John 6:14, clearly references the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 18:15-18). Hence, Paul said “For Jews, demand signs, and Greeks seek wisdom.” (1Co 1:22)

    In Matthew 15:33 again in bold letters, the disciples might seem to have forgotten Jesus’ earlier miraculous feeding of the five thousand. However, that’s unlikely. All of Israel was eagerly anticipating the arrival of the promised Prophet of God. But this was not just any prophet, but the one foretold by Moses in Deuteronomy 18:15: “The LORD your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—you shall listen to Him.” Like Moses, Christ Jesus, the Great Prophet of God, would lead them in a second and final exodus.

    If the disciples knew that Christ could perform miraculous feedings at any time, why did they still doubt? Like many Jews of their time, the disciples didn’t expect that the same grace would be offered to the Gentiles. This misunderstanding was detrimental if the disciples were to remain faithful to God’s work. The same applies to our present context. The preaching and teaching of the Gospel cannot be separated from theology. The doctrine of salvation (soteriology), the doctrine of the church (ecclesiology), the doctrine of Christ Jesus (Christology), the doctrine of the last things (eschatology), etc.

    Modern Christianity dislike doctrines. They thought its divisive and complex. But the Gospel of Jesus Christ can only be truthfully understood along with the Bible’s doctrines. The doctrines of the Scripture is the unified message of the Gospel and Christ Jesus.

    Fast forward to Paul’s ministry. He undoubtedly faced similar challenges from the Jews, who struggled to believe in Christ Jesus. Ironically, their strong bias for Jewish prominence caused them to rely heavily on the Mosaic Law, which became a barrier to accepting God’s grace. This theme is clearly outlined in Paul’s letters to the Romans and the Galatians.

    “I am speaking the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience bears me witness in the Holy Spirit— that I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh. They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen. But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel, and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring.” (Rom 9:1-8)

    Paul argued similarly in Galatians, saying: “Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Gal 3:21-29)

    The Jewish people have no justification for being intolerant towards the Gospel. The Old Testament clearly teaches that salvation is available to everyone who believes, regardless of race or ethnicity.

    To prove my point, click to see Genesis 12:1-3; 18:17-18; 22:17-18; three times God reiterated to Abraham that His salvation is for everyone. It is important to note, that Paul’s comprehension of the Gospel cannot be belitted. Apart from being a Pharisee trained in the OT Scripture (Acts 22:3), he received the Gospel through a revelation from Christ Jesus (Gal 1:11-12). So he authoritatively explains in Galatians 3:8-9

    “And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.”

    And again, in Galatians 3:11-14, Paul said:

    “Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.” But the law is not of faith, rather “The one who does them shall live by them.” Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.”

    Doubtless then, that the Gospel is sufficient for everyone who believes. Sadly though, the Jews opted to reject God’s grace and seek their own righteousness (Rom 10:1-4). Presently, a lot of Christians rightly teach that “salvation is by grace alone, through faith in Christ alone”. But they seem to have not learned from the mistakes of the Jews. Once baptized, Christians would be subjected to regulations and rules; like church membership, weekly attendance, etc.

    Christ Jesus offers a simplified Christianity. But men, like the Old Covenant Jews, have to complicate it. Isn’t that the reason why Christianity comes in different denominations and forms?

    In conclusion, Paul wrote: “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings?” (Col 2:20-22)

    Christ Jesus offered a simplified Christianity, let us therefore keep Christianity simple.

    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 freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!

  • Parenting Is A Lifelong Endeavor

    Sadly a lot of family squabble has been broadcast in the socmed. Parents need not justify their efforts in rearing their children to whom they are now. Once your children become estranged from you, whoever fault it may be, ranting against them will just aggravate your relationship. Reconciliation would be next to impossible.

    The Bible teaches parents must provide and rear their children well. On the other hand, it is the responsibility of children to honor their parents. However, once either one, the parents or their children, have neglected their God-given duty and responsibility, ranting against each other would be of no good use, especially if reconciliation is your goal.

    Parents who have done well raising their children should just understand. Sometimes that’s just it, children becoming independent need time and space for themselves. Like us before, they are now in the process of finding themselves or looking for a lifetime partner. Give them time.

    On the other hand, if your children are more fond of having other people around them than you, perhaps you have to self-evaluate yourself and your family. You may not have a healthy family contrary to your beliefs.

    But either way, learn from the story of the lost son (Luke 15:15-32). Parents should always be ready, waiting for the day their children would mature and perhaps learn from their mistakes or find in their hearts to forgive our shortcomings.

    Reconciliation is always easier when no stones are thrown against each other, especially in public. Parents should sometimes learn to turn the other cheek when berated by their children (Matthew 5:39). Like them, we all are still growing and maturing.

    If needed, and a good opportunity arises for conversation, always talk to your adult children with respect and a mild manner. Respect begets respect. There is no pride lost in preventing ugly words from being uttered. Keep in mind the Word of God: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)

    Sometimes we ought to learn to “speak no evil, see no evil, and hear no evil”. Let God be the judge and reward us for our good deeds. Parenting is a lifelong endeavor. We continue to be parents even after our children become adults. Never give up the privilege of being a parent. Always be present when called upon, never intending to interfere. Always be ready when needed, never wanting to be supported. Always on standby without judgment, caring and praying that they would not need us to step in.

    Though Scripture says, “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother (Pro 29:15)”, keep in mind instructions and discipline should be when they are young. See the Scripture below on parenting.

    “A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.” (Pro 13:1)

    “A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.” (Pro 15:5)

    “A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.” (Pro 15:20)

    “He who sires a fool gets himself sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy.” (Pro 17:21)

    “A foolish son is a grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him.” (Pro 17:25)

    “A foolish son is ruin to his father, and a wife’s quarreling is a continual dripping of rain.” (Pro 19:13)

    “He who does violence to his father and chases away his mother is a son who brings shame and reproach.” (Pro 19:26)

    “Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” (Pro 23:22)

    “The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice.” (Pro 23:24-25)

    “Whoever robs his father or his mother and says, ‘That is no transgression,’ is a companion to a man who destroys.” (Pro 28:24)

    The Bible is never one-sided. See Paul’s instructions about the parent-child relationship.

    “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:1-4)

    Blessings!

    If you want to follow our journey of unlearning tradition and relearning Scripture, you can stay updated just head to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Subscription is free.

  • Faith, a concept or a way of life?

    Many times Christians think of faith as an idea or concept, not a way of life. So many say, “I still need to live, be rational and practical about life.” Consequently, they end up compromising their faith. But Scripture said, “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

    Christians cannot simply let wrongdoings, especially those that compromise the integrity of Christ and His Church, slide – even if it would have detrimental human consequences. For the Christian walk is a matter of faith and belief in Christ Jesus and His Word.

    “Then Jesus told His disciples, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:24-26)

    Blessing!

    If you want to follow our journey of unlearning tradition and relearning Scripture, you can stay updated just head to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Subscription is free.

  • Walk By Faith, Not By Sight

    In the last 2000 years, the world remained as chaotic as before. Perhaps it’s true that with the advancement of medicine, technology, and civil society, living standards today are far better than the barbaric days of humanity. Yet, a quick look at world events would tell us it isn’t so. In the West, people have been shot dead by random shooters. In some other parts of the world, dictators continue to reign over its people. Hunger remains to be a problem all over the world and many more issues. With that, we Christians are left grasping for answers because many times we have been asked, “When would God rectify the wrongs in the world?”

    God had done His part by sending His Son Jesus Christ to redeem people from the fall of humanity. Yes, I’m referring to Genesis 3, the fall of Adam and Eve. Jesus Christ came proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17).” It is sad though that most of present-day Christianity fails to see the reality of Christ’s pronouncement. Consequently, they also fail to communicate the true reality of God’s Word. See Revelation 11:15.

    “Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.””

    The Book of Revelation was prophetic, not historical. It was written before the fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Contrary to the popular view it was sometime in 90 A.D. Click and read my blog on “Dating of Revelation”. Notice that I present it in the past tense because the prophecy of Revelation 11 has been fulfilled. Revelation cannot be a historical narrative simply because it’s an “apokalupsis” (Greek for revelation). It’s a disclosure or unveiling of events to come in John’s time. See Revelation 1:9-10.

    “I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet”

    Next, see Revelation 1:19. “Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this.”

    Let me first make clear: “The Lord’s Day” isn’t Sunday, as suggested by some Christians. John was foreseeing events of “the Day of the Lord” or the Day of God’s judgment and salvation (see Acts 2:20-21; 1Corinthians 1:7-8; 1Corinthians 5:5; 2Corinthians 1:13-14; 1Thessalonians 5:2; 2Thessalonians 2:1-2; 2Peter 3:10).

    Take note that in Revelation 1:19, John was told the things that he was to see would take place after Christ’s revelation. In other words, it’s happening soon – soon to John, not to us living millennia after the writing of Revelation.

    See further Christ’s warning regarding the time and any attempt to alter His word. See Revelation 22:16-20.

    ““I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you (John) about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book. He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

    Now, what is the context of Revelation 11:15? It speaks of the judgment against Old Covenant Jewish Temple, see Revelation 11:1-2.

    “Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff, and I was told, “Rise and measure the temple of God and the altar and those who worship there, but do not measure the court outside the temple; leave that out, for it is given over to the nations, and they will trample the holy city for forty-two months.”

    So John foresaw the fulfillment of Jesus Christ’s words against Old Covenant Israel, see Luke 21:20-27.

    ““But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it, for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress upon the earth (in the Greek, it could alternately be translated as “land”) and wrath against this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”

    What was the sin of Old Covenant Israel? They rejected the Lord Jesus Christ and killed His prophets and apostles. But how do we know Revelation 11 was about Old Covenant Israel? First, the introduction of chapter eleven spoke clearly of the destruction, (i.e., trample) of the Jewish Temple. Then, in verses 7 and 8, the murderers of God’s witnesses were inhabitants of the “great city” where Jesus Christ was crucified – so that’s none other but Jerusalem.

    The “times of the Gentiles” pertain to the four Gentile empires ruling over Israel as prophesied and made clear in the Book of Daniel. Daniel identified the first three empires as Babylon, Mede Persia, and Greece (Daniel 2 & 8). John, on the other hand, prophesied about the events happening in the fourth and last Gentile empire ruling over Jerusalem, and that’s Rome (Revelation 13 &17).

    The kingdom of the world of Revelation 11:15 pertains to the Old Covenant Jewish world, while the kingdom of our Lord and His Christ though spiritual is real and everlasting. Years before the fall of Old Covenant Jerusalem, the apostle Paul declared, “From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:16-17)

    God never neglects on His word and promises. Many like to suggest that Jesus Christ is yet to return fulfilling His word and promise. God forbid, but by their claim, they have made Jesus Christ to be a liar, not true to His word. For as long as our present world rejects Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, then it will always be chaotic because it is ruled by man, not God. Christians, on the other hand, should keep in mind that our citizenship is with heaven (Philippians 3:20). So indeed, we ought to walk by faith, not by sight (2Co. 5:7). We are troubled by the things around us, so we fail to see the reality that God is indeed with us.

    Learn to see beyond the thorns then we will see the beauty of the Rose. That’s the reality of our Christian walk. The psalm below, written by David, is a Messianic Psalm. Memorized this psalm cause that’s the reality of living under Christ’s New Covenant.

    “A Psalm of David. The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” (Psalms 23:1-6)

    Blessings!

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  • True Riches

    The Gospels contain parables. Jesus spoke a lot of parables, not to conceal but to speak the truth. Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary defined “Parable” as “a short, simple story designed to communicate a spiritual truth, religious principle, or moral lesson; a figure of speech in which truth is illustrated by a comparison or example drawn from everyday experiences.”

    One of the most obscure, misunderstood, and diversely interpreted parables of Jesus may be found in Luke 16:1-9.

    He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.’ The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. For the sons of this world [age] are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.”

    Let us first establish the context or background of the parable. It was uttered by Jesus against the Pharisees. See Luke 15:1-3.

    Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear Him [Jesus]. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So He told them this parable:

    The Pharisees had unjustly accused Jesus of wrongdoings because He welcomed tax collectors and sinners, which had been a repeated contention raised against Jesus Christ. See Luke 5:30.

    And the Pharisees and their scribes grumbled at his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”

    Also, Luke 7:39.

    Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him (Jesus Christ) saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.”

    And many other instances.

    The Pharisees were an influential religious sect within Judaism in the time of Christ and the early church. They were known for their emphasis on personal piety (the word Pharisee comes from a Hebrew word meaning “separated”), their acceptance of oral tradition in addition to the written Law, and their teaching that all Jews should observe all 600-plus laws in the Torah, including the rituals concerning ceremonial purification.

    The Pharisees were mostly middle-class businessmen and leaders of the synagogues. Though they were a minority in the Sanhedrin and held a minority number of positions as priests, they seemed to control the decision-making of the Sanhedrin because they had popular support among the people.

    Source: GotQuestions.Org

    Doubtless, the influence and teachings of the Pharisees had much effect on the minds of the Jews; hence, they acted similarly here in Luke 19:5-7.

    And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received Him joyfully. And when they [the Jews] saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.”

    Jesus spoke a series of parables in response to the Pharisees’ accusation (Luke 15:1-2), one after the other – “the parable of one lost sheep” (Luke 15:4-7); “the parable of the lost coin” (Luke 15:8-10); “the parable of the prodigal son” (Luke 15:11-32); “the parable of the shrewd manager” (Luke 16:1-9); and lastly, “the parable of the rich man and Lazarus” (Luke 16:19-31).

    Jesus through each parable was setting up His argument and rebuke against the Pharisees – the Pharisees who were teachers of the Law, God’s Word, so they should be concerned with the flock of God, even if only for one lost sheep (Luke 15:4-7), for God desires to redeem even one lost soul, figuratively represented by the “lost coin” (Luke 15:8-10).

    Next, Judah was the son who never left his father yet had no heart to embrace back Israel (the Northern Kingdom of Israel), but having repented from his wrongdoings, the father willingly restored him as a son – the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). Likewise, the Pharisees, like the eldest son in the parable, refuse to accept the tax collectors. They grumbled against Jesus for welcoming them to hear Him.

    Now continuing on Jesus’ second to last parable spoken against the Pharisees, Luke 16:1-9, Jesus told a story of a rich man who was told his manager was wasting his possessions (16:1). In 16:2, the rich man called the manager and said to him, “What is this I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.” Without first investigating to ascertain the veracity of what he was told, the rich man fired the manager based on what he heard (16:2). The rich man therefore was unjust. The manager likewise was unjust. Jesus Christ referred to him as DISHONEST or UNJUST, depending on the translation of the parable (Luke 16:8) but definitely of negative connotation.

    Now look closely at Luke 16:3-8.

    And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors [G5533] one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.’ The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light.

    The master did not appear to have been surprised by the huge discount given out by the dishonest manager. No businessman would be happy for such huge a discount if it would amount to losses. The master and the dishonest manager have conspired to overcharge the clients, causing them to be close to bankruptcy, and unable to pay their debt. So again, the master truly is unjust. So is the dishonest manager, he continued to work behind the back of his master though already fired – once again, for his gain.

    Next, see “debtors,” in verse 5. A quick check with a Lexicon, a dictionary of Greek and Hebrews – in our case Greek words – “debtors” was used only twice by Jesus in the entire narrative across all four Gospels of the New Testament Scripture. The other occurrence may be seen in Luke 7:41, but I will include the context for proper understanding. See Luke 7:40-43.

    And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.” “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And He said to him, “You have judged rightly.”

    Did you notice how Jesus had used “debtors” in His storytelling or teachings? “Debtors” refer to those who have bad debts, people who can no longer pay their debts – people who have gone bankrupt, in other words.

    So having understood Jesus’ use of the word “debtors,” indeed the manager had acted shrewdly. With the huge discount, the dishonest manager was able to collect both the capital and the master’s profit margin. On the other hand, the debtor having no way out of his debt, seeing the huge discount, sought a way to pay back so that they may be free and possibly reengage in business. It’s a win-win, for both the master and his clients. To the master, the bad debts, uncollectible or NPL (non-performing debts) in our modern terms, have been recovered. More so, for the dishonest manager, ‘cause he has extended favor to the master’s clients giving them the chance to be back in business, thereby possibly making himself indispensable to the master and a man of goodwill to the clients.

    Now, going back to the context of Jesus’ parable, He was unjustly accused by the Pharisees, Jews may have also been confused by His actions simply because He welcomed tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees understood when Jesus Christ spoke the parable against them. See Luke 16:14, Scripture said, “The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed Him (Jesus Christ).”

    Without a doubt then, the parable of the dishonest manager was spoken against the Pharisees. They have made friends for themselves using unrighteous wealth or shrewdness, like today, as the saying goes, “Money talks.” Yet money means nothing or would have no value in their final and eternal dwellings – the Lake of Fire. Yes, that’s the eternal dwelling in Luke 16:9, not heaven. That truth was communicated clearly by Jesus Christ through His second parable, go see Luke 16:19-31 – the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, which spoke of the rich man’s punishment. The rich man was in hades, judged already awaiting his final dwelling; yes, the Lake of Fire or the second death (Revelation 20:14). Once again, the rich man represented the Pharisees, who were lovers of money. They didn’t care to lift a finger in aid of the needy but were concerned only about themselves, similar to the dishonest manager of Luke 16:1-9.

    The Bible revealed the true condition of the Pharisees’ heart – they were lovers of money. They put much importance on temporal wealth (unrighteous wealth) over true riches; hence, they failed to see – the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets (see Luke 24:44) had been unveiled before them. The Gospel of the kingdom has been preached.

    The tax collectors and sinners represent every one of us. We owe God a huge debt, which cannot be repaid by us but by Christ Jesus alone. But be careful not to fall into an understanding that we Christians ought to be shrewd in our dealings. That was never the intent or teaching of Jesus Christ in this parable (Luke 16:1-9). Now to expound on this further, Jesus Christ in verses 8b-9 said:

    “For the sons of this world [age] are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.”

    Let me first point out that “sons of this world“ should properly be translated “sons of this age“, “aiōn, G165” in Greek, which was rightly translated by the New American Standard Bible translation. The Strong’s Greek Dictionary explained that it is “by implication the world; specifically (Jewish) a Messianic period”.

    The coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, then was the beginning of the Messianic Age (Luke 17:20-21). The sons of this age, in Luke 16:8, then refer to the sons of the Jewish Age or Old Covenant Age, distinguishing them from the sons of light, the followers of Jesus Christ, and those who truly believe in His Word. See John 12:34-36.

    So the crowd answered Him [Jesus], “We have heard from the Law that the Christ remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” So Jesus said to them, “The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” When Jesus had said these things, he departed and hid himself from them.

    An important insight in Scripture. The interval between the end of the Jewish Age (Old Covenant Age) and the beginning of the Christian Age (New Covenant Age) was the Messianic Age (Period). The Messianic Age encompassed the seemingly two comings of Jesus Christ, which was one in the Old Testament prophecies. Examples may be seen through Malachi 3:1-5 and Matthew 3:11-12.

    The New Covenant (or New Testament) is the promise that God makes with humanity that He will forgive sin and restore fellowship with those whose hearts are turned toward Him. Jesus Christ is the mediator of the New Covenant, and His death on the cross is the basis of the promise (Luke 22:20). The New Covenant was predicted while the Old Covenant was still in effect—the prophets Moses, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel all allude to the New Covenant.

    Source: GotQuestions.Org

    So Scripture in Matthew 26:26-29 said: “Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body.’ And He took a cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink of it, all of you, for this is My blood of the [new] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.’”

    Jesus Christ died, resurrected, and ascended to reign over His kingdom. It’s a spiritual kingdom, not an earthly or physical kingdom which was offered to Him by the Jews in John 6:15, but Jesus Christ rejected it.

    Without a doubt, Jesus Christ came as He had promised His then-living apostles, saying “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom (Matthew 16:28).” The same promised was reiterated by Mark and Luke, testifying on the Word and promise of Christ Jesus (see Mark 9:1; Luke 9:27).

    If Jesus Christ’s Word isn’t true, if His return has been delayed as suggested by most Christians, then He isn’t trustworthy. But He indeed is trustworthy, true, and has returned according to His Word. We just have been told and taught otherwise. The error is with tradition, definitely not the Word of God. Else, His redemptive work isn’t complete. Salvation remains a hope, not yet a true reality (see Hebrews 9:28; Romans 13:11 & 1Peter 1:3-5). Yes, that’s the implication of any suggestion that He has yet to return.

    Now back to our discussion in Luke. In effect with verse 8, Jesus pointed out the shrewdness of the Pharisees – the sons of this age – who were unjust but had accused Him of being unrighteous, as I have mentioned earlier. Then comes verses 9-13, where Jesus continued, saying:

    And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings. “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

    Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible has wonderfully explained the meaning of “unrighteous wealth”:

    These words are an Hebrew expression for “unrighteous mammon,” the noun being used for an adjective, as is common in the New Testament. The word “unrighteous,” here, stands opposed to “the true riches” in Luk 16:11, and means “deceitful, false, not to be trusted.” It has this meaning often. See 1Ti 6:17; Luk 12:33; Mat 6:19; Mat 19:21. It does not signify, therefore, that they had acquired the property “unjustly,” but that property was “deceitful” and not to be trusted. The wealth of the steward was deceitful; he could not rely on its continuance; it was liable to be taken away at any moment. So the wealth of the world is deceitful. We cannot “calculate” on its continuance. It may give us support or comfort now, but it may be soon removed, or we taken from “it,” and we should, therefore, so use it as to derive benefit from it hereafter.

    In other words, Christians should always trust Jesus Christ in everything, for salvation and our daily needs as well. We should not be too preoccupied by the desire to get rich and things of this temporal world. Rather, we should seek to be rich with God. Remember Jesus’ words on another parabolic teaching. See Luke 12:20-26.

    “But God said to him (rich man), ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” And He (Jesus Christ) said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?”

    Similarly, like Luke 16:9-13, Jesus Christ was simply reiterating His teachings in Luke 12:32-34.

    Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

    According to Jesus’ own teaching, “unrighteous wealth or temporal wealth (v.9)” is of less value, unrealiable, temporal and cannot be compared to the “true riches (v.11)”. True riches is with Christ Jesus our Lord; it’s about the kingdom of heaven. As I have said earlier, the Pharisees have repeatedly rebuked Jesus for welcoming tax collectors and sinners. Likewise, do not allow false religiosity misdirect you to missed entrance to God’s kingdom. Jesus Christ said:

    ““Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”” (Matthew 7:13-15)

    Look at Jesus’ last words to the church. Let it resonate in your mind and heart that you may find the strength to live your lives holding on to true riches. See Revelation 3:18-22.

    I counsel you to buy from Me [Jesus Christ] gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with Me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with Me on My throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

    Let me remind everyone that these words of Jesus Christ were spoken a millennia ago. Thanks be to God, Jesus Christ was faithful to all His promises. He is not a liar, as alleged by some. I firmly believe and understand that Jesus came and fulfilled all His promises. So let me encourage everyone: seek Christ, His righteousness, and His kingdom, for only then may anyone find true riches – entrance to the kingdom of heaven.

    Blessing!

    P.S. This is an edited version of my original posting. The edits concern aspects on the parable of Jesus Christ, the story of the dishonest manager. All major points remain the same. I have removed a lot of insights to the true teaching of the Scripture for it may have digressed from our original study. Jesus Christ has been teaching repeatedly against lusting for earthly wealth at the expense of the true wealth that Christians should seek – entrance to God’s kingdom.

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  • Christianity 101 (From the story of Othniel)

    Had Bible study last night. We studied Judges 3:1-11. Othniel, son of Caleb’s younger brother, was sent by the LORD to rescue Israel but ONLY after they had cried out to Him. So Israel experienced rest for forty years under the guidance of Othniel, the first Judge sent by the LORD.

    Christians, likewise chosen by God to be His people, ought not to think it’s fine to disobey the LORD and yet still be favored by Him. Redemption also does not apply to the rebellious but only to those who repent and turn to God for salvation.

    No one can escape worldly troubles. Christians alike are affected by events, financial crises, and the like occurring. However, God can preserve His people amidst the chaos or troubles around us.

    Othniel, sent by God, guided Israel for forty years – a generation – giving them rest. Similarly, we ought to be guided by the Words of Jesus Christ, as revealed in Scripture, for only then may anyone truly be servants of God’s Word, teaching people the truth notwithstanding the odds.

    True servants of God are not defined by the organization, sect, or denomination. But by the outcome of their work, teaching solely based on Jesus’ Word.

    “Everyone then who hears these words of Mine (Jesus Christ) and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” (Matthew 7:24-27)

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  • God Is Above All Circumstances

    Our recent circumstances may not look good – high inflation, high peso-dollar exchange rate, high fuel cost, and high borrowing rates. All these and many others are contributing factors to low purchasing power, scarce job opportunities, limited business expansion, activities, etc.

    Without a doubt, no one is spared. Everyone is affected by the current financial crisis. Yet, Christians ought to remember that for forty years God sustained Israel while inside the wilderness. There isn’t any productivity in the wilderness. But God provided Israel with food, water, and all basic needs throughout the lifetime of those who went out of Egypt in Exodus. Sadly though, that generation of Hebrews failed miserably, forsaking God’s covenant. Only Joshua and Caleb together with the second-generation Israelites – those who weren’t around breaking God’s covenant and with whom God renewed His covenant (Joshua 5:2) – entered the Promised Land, though we know that the Promised Land was just a shadow of the good things to come. So with the coming of Jesus Christ fulfilling all Scripture, Christians now have the fullness of God’s promise. Consequently, amid present financial difficulties Christians ought to trust Jesus Christ in all things.

    Here is a Messianic promise uttered by David in a psalm.

    “The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their heritage will remain forever; they are not put to shame in evil times; in the days of famine they have abundance. But the wicked will perish; the enemies of the LORD are like the glory of the pastures; they vanish—like smoke they vanish away.” (Psalms 37:18-20)

    Always be thankful for God’s goodness. No matter how difficult the present circumstances may become, God remains faithful and His grace is sufficient at all times. In whatever circumstances we may be, always place your trust and confidence in Christ Jesus alone. Scripture said, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

    May the peace of God be with everyone!

    P.S. It has been a while since I last wrote a blog. Been busy doing virtual Bible study and sharing the truths of the Scripture. Thank you all for visiting my blog.

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  • Delusions of Rebuilding the Temple

    Disclaimer: This is not a photo of the destroyed Second Temple

    The pandemic triggered a lot of delusions from among the Futurist camp – the belief that Jesus is yet to return in the future. Yes, Jesus promised His disciples He was coming in their generation. See my previous blog “Confused Christianity” for a better perspective on the topic.

    Futurists believe the Second Coming of Jesus Christ would be preceded by a rebuilding of the Jewish Temple. Futurists are great storytellers on the said topic. Novels and movies have been made based on their narrative. However, there is no valid biblical passage to support such a claim. Nowhere in the Bible did Scripture promise the rebuilding of a Third Jewish Temple.

    On the contrary, Jesus Christ spoke of the destruction of the Second Jewish Temple (Herod’s temple), and it came to pass in 70 A.D. See Matthew 24:1-2.

    “Jesus left the temple and was going away, when His disciples came to point out to Him the buildings of the temple. But He answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.””

    Jesus actually first spoke of its destruction in Matthew 23:36-38.

    “Truly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you desolate.”

    By “this generation”, Jesus points to the Jewish generation who saw and crucified Him. See Isaiah 64:10-11 for clarity about the “house” in Matthew 23:38.

    Your holy cities have become a wilderness; Zion has become a wilderness, Jerusalem a desolation. Our holy and beautiful house, where our fathers praised you, has been burned by fire, and all our pleasant places have become ruins.

    By “house”, Jesus Christ prophecied about the desolation of the temple. Hence, His mention of its destruction in Matthew 24:2 was to reiterate the fact that truly the temple would be destroyed for the second and final time.

    The disciples, having heard Jesus saying twice “the temple would be destroyed”, understood its implication, so they asked:

    “As He (Jesus Christ) sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”” (Mat 24:3)

    The disciples were able to connect the dots. Temple destruction means “The Return of Christ” and “The End of the Age”. Let me repeat: “IT’S THE END OF THE AGE, NOT THE WORLD.”

    The Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of the New Testament defined “age, aion” Greek #165 “an age or era”. In other words, it’s the end of an era – the Old Covenant Israel.

    It’s not only the apostles who understood that “temple destroyed = second coming = end of the age.” So do generations of Christians after the catastrophic event in Jerusalem. See the quotation about “Julian the Apostate’s attempt to rebuild the temple” below:

    The Church Fathers embellished the story in various ways adding that the Jews received Julian’s proposal enthusiastically, coming in thousands to the Temple Mount with stones in their hands, but when the first stones were laid the Jews were threatened by earthquakes and hurricanes, and finally driven off by a heavenly fire and specter of Christ (Gregory of Nazianz, Contra Julianum, Oratio, no. 4, 2:149–50; Socrates, Historia Ecclesiastica, 3:196; Sozomenus, Historia Ecclesiastica, 5:214–5). Two important facts may be gathered from these sources: (1) Julian wished to rebuild the Temple to strengthen paganism against Christianity (he saw Judaism and paganism as having sacrificial rites in common); (2) he wished to refute Jesus’ prophecy concerning the Temple (Luke 21:6; Matt. 24:2).

    Jewishvirtuallibrary.org

    If Julian the Apostate had succeeded in his effort to rebuild the Jewish temple, then Jesus would’ve failed to fulfill His promise of return. Jesus Christ, about His judgment against Old Covenant Israel, said:

    ““So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be.” (Mat 24:15-21)

    One implied meaning was that the Jewish temple would never be rebuilt ‘cause its desolation wouldn’t be repeated. No surprise, the LORD spoke the same truth through Isaiah the prophet. See Isaiah 25:1-2.

    “O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you; I will praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure. For You have made the city a heap, the fortified city a ruin; the foreigners’ palace is a city no more; it will never be rebuilt.”

    Remember that Scripture originally had no chapter or verse division. Hence, Isaiah 24 & 25 are in the same context. God was speaking of His judgment. For reference and clarity to the “city” mentioned in Isaiah 25:2, see Isaiah 24:5-12 below. Take note that “earth” should properly be translated as “land, Hebrew #776,” the land of Israel with whom God gave the Mosaic Law.

    “The earth lies defiled under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse devours the earth, and its inhabitants suffer for their guilt; therefore the inhabitants of the earth are scorched, and few men are left. The wine mourns, the vine languishes, all the merry-hearted sigh. The mirth of the tambourines is stilled, the noise of the jubilant has ceased, the mirth of the lyre is stilled. No more do they drink wine with singing; strong drink is bitter to those who drink it. The wasted city is broken down; every house is shut up so that none can enter. There is an outcry in the streets for lack of wine; all joy has grown dark; the gladness of the earth is banished. Desolation is left in the city; the gates are battered into ruins.” (Isaiah 24:5-12)

    The Bible is unified in saying, “Old Covenant Jerusalem and its temple will be destroyed, and not be rebuilt.” Amazing to think: Julian the Apostate, despite his enormous power and authority as emperor of Rome, failed to rebuild a Third Jewish Temple. However, the Muslims successfully built the Dome of Rock on the precise site of the former temple.

    In conclusion, let us see John’s story concerning Jesus’ words about temple. See John 2:19-22.

    “Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews then said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?” But He was speaking about the temple of His body. When therefore He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.”

    There is no need for a rebuilt temple. The essence of the temple was to signify God’s presence with Israel. But with the New Covenant, God’s dwelling place is with His people. See 2 Corinthians 6:16.

    “What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we (Christians) 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.” (2Co 6:16)

    See also 1 Peter 2:4-5.

    “As you come to Him (Jesus Christ), a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”

    It is our prayer that everyone would abide in the words of Christ, discerning truth from myths.

    “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are truly My disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”” (Joh 8:31-32)

    Blessings!

    If you want to follow our journey of unlearning tradition and relearning Scripture and stay updated, you can head to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox.

  • Confused Christianity

    Without a doubt, 21st-century Christianity comes in many shapes and forms. Christians differ in doctrines, but they seem to be unified in believing that the return of Jesus Christ is still in the future, though it has been millennia since Jesus promised His apostles that He would be coming in their generation. See Matthew 16:27-28.

    “For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of His Father, and then He will repay each person according to what he has done. Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.””

    The synoptic Gospels – Matthew, Mark, & Luke – have the same assurance concerning the imminent return of Christ:

    “And He (Jesus Christ) said to them (apostles), “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.”” (Mark 9:1)

    “For whoever is ashamed of Me (Jesus Christ) and of My words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when He comes in His glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”” (Luke 9:26-27)

    Not only that, Jesus Christ sending out the twelve apostles, instructing them on His message, said, “And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” (Matthew 10:7)

    “At hand” in the original Greek language means “near,” and near cannot by any means be thousands of years and continuing, as suggested by the Futurists. Jesus Christ did not just give them the message to proclaim, but He reinforced the message with the assurance that it was indeed occurring soon. See Matthew 10:23.

    “When they persecute you (the apostles) in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.”

    As I researched the validity of Jesus’ words, it’s sad, actually disgusting, to find known Bible scholars saying, “No, Jesus was confused or hallucinating when He uttered those words.” Some dismissed the passages saying, “There must be another meaning for that, but we just have to find out.”

    Funny that for as long as the passages or verses are convenient to their theological position, they adhere to the Words of Christ, but if it doesn’t, then it’s excuses after excuses. Scripture does not need affirmation from men; rather, the Bible is the dispenser of truth because it is the Word of God.

    One of the key disciplines in interpreting Scripture involves recognizing “time statements.” However, Futurists often overlook these time statements in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, and instead suggest that they refer to the future. It’s important to remember that what the apostles considered “the future” is no longer future to us today.

    Hence, statements like “this generation” in Matthew 24:34 no longer make an impact on the readers, for time statements have been disregarded. See Matthew 24:29-34.

    “29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. 32 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So also, when you see all these things, you know that He is near, at the very gates. 34 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place.

    So some have suggested “this generation” refers to the generation who saw the literal signs of Matthew 24:29-34. Yet, they miss out on John’s confession in Revelation that he was already in tribulation. See Revelation 1:9.

    “I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.”

    Scripture is a unity. The apostles’ writings cannot be different from the Words of Jesus found in the Gospels, the Book of Acts, or the Book of Revelation. Jesus’ words have their foundation in the Old Testament Scripture. The entire Bible is a cohesive revelation concerning the declaration and fulfillment of God’s words.

    See Luke 24:44.

    Then He (Jesus Christ) said to them (The disciples), “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.”

    In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of fake news online. Most people now get their news from the web, particularly from platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Unfortunately, fake news spreads easily because many individuals click to watch or read without considering the source or the intent of the uploader or poster.

    Even if a Facebook post or YouTube video contains factual information, ignoring the date it was published can severely affect its relevance today. The same principle applies when reading and studying the Bible. It is essential to recognize the audience’s relevance, the timing of statements, and their historical accuracy. Failing to do so can lead to misinterpretations of Scripture, whether by inexperienced readers or poorly informed pastors.

    Jesus Christ warned, “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?” (Luke 6:39)

    Find someone who can teach you the disciplines of studying Scripture. Avoid using human-tailored Bible study materials, as they often reflect human influence. It’s important to recognize that even within different Bible translations, traces of human interpretation can be found. Let me be clear: the Bible itself is perfect, infallible, and without error; the issues arise with the translations.

    You don’t need to be a scholar of Greek, Hebrew, or Aramaic, but it is beneficial to read the Bible by comparing different translations. Additionally, learning to use language tools, such as lexicons, is essential for in-depth Bible study. There are many free lexicon tools available online or for download. You just need to find someone knowledgeable to guide you in using these tools effectively.

    It’s never too late to start studying Scripture and practicing proper exegesis. Ultimately, Scripture reveals truths about salvation that extend beyond our physical needs and concerns, addressing both our current lives and eternity. Don’t let yourself become part of confused Christianity.

    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. Blessing!