People are naturally drawn to the miraculous deeds of Christ Jesus. He heals people, casts out demons, and raises the dead back to life. Those are signs confirming the arrival of the Christ, but Mark 1:35–39 showcases what’s far more important: Jesus came to preach the Gospel. Scripture states:
“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed. And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him, and they found Him and said to Him, ‘Everyone is looking for you.’ And He said to them, ‘Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.’ And He went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.” (Mark 1:35-39)
Jesus was never derailed by His popularity. He understood the purpose of His coming. The apostle Paul similarly emphasizes the significance of preaching the Gospel, as noted in 1 Corinthians 1:17.
“For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the Gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
After Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension, Peter stood before the crowd at Pentecost and cited the prophecy of Joel, declaring the imminent fulfillment of the final days for Old Covenant Israel (Acts 2:14-21). As the early church began to grow, this same sense of urgency to proclaim the Gospel continued to resonate through Peter’s words and actions.
Peter next points to the remarkable signs and wonders performed by Jesus, noting that his crucifixion and death aligned with God’s prior knowledge and divine purpose (Acts 2:22–23). Jesus’ resurrection confirmed God’s pledge to David, guaranteeing that his descendant would sit on the throne and build a lasting kingdom, as predicted in 2 Samuel 7:12–13 and 16, cited from Psalms 16:8–11 and 110:1, and recounted in Acts 2:24–35.
Peter then ended his sermon with a powerful declaration: “Let all the house of Israel be assured that God has made Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (Acts 2:36) Following this, he urged the people, “Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is for you, your children, and for all who are far away—everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself.” (Acts 2:38–39) With many other words, he testified and encouraged them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” (Acts 2:40)
The last phrase “save yourselves from this corrupt generation,” without a doubt, points to the Old Covenant Israel, telling them judgment was approaching.
This urgent appeal to salvation underscores why preaching stays central to Christ’s work. Paul stressed its importance, noting he was sent to proclaim the Gospel not through clever language but through the message of the cross (1 Corinthians 1:17).
John records in Revelation, “another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people.” (Revelation 14:6)
People still need to hear the Gospel. For pastors, teachers, and evangelists, it is vital to keep in mind the aim of our calling to Christ’s ministry. As we preach and teach, we follow Paul’s view that we prepare Christians for ministry work.
This work is intended to strengthen the church until everyone reaches a shared faith, rather than the varied teachings currently present. This way, the church may cease to be like children, tossed by waves and driven by every shifting doctrine, by human cleverness, or by deceptive schemes. (Ephesians 4:12–14)
Mark highlights the importance of Jesus’ preaching. In Mark 1:38, Jesus says, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out,” a passage positioned between accounts of healing and casting out demons in Mark 1:21–34 and Mark 1:40–2:12—narratives that often capture more reader interest.
Christians, God’s concern should be ours. Maintain the importance of preaching and teaching ministry. Honor Jesus by honoring His Word.
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!
In today’s passage, Mark 1:21–34, the evangelist continues his narrative by affirming the signs of the times. In Mark 1:21–28, we read of the moment when an unclean spirit recognized the divinity of Jesus and declared, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God.” (Mark 1:24)
Jesus cast out the unclean spirit, leaving those present in awe, and His fame spread across Galilee. Yet He sought no recognition. Leaving the synagogue, He went to the home of Simon and Andrew, accompanied by James and John, where He healed Simon’s mother-in-law. That evening, many who were sick or tormented by demons were brought to Him for healing and deliverance. Once again, Jesus silenced the demons, forbidding them to speak, for they recognized His true identity as the Holy One of God. (Mark 1:25–34)
Certainly, Jesus—as the Second Person of the Triune God—possesses authority over diseases and demons. This power is plainly shown in the narrative. Yet Mark did not merely inform his audience that Jesus could perform such acts; instead, Mark confirmed the signs of the times.
Luke narrates a story when John the Baptist was already in prison. After Jesus raised a widow’s son from the dead, and reports came to John, he immediately sent two of his disciples asking Jesus, “Are you the One who is to come, or shall we look for another?” (Luke 7:19). Jesus proves He is the Christ by saying, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them.” (Luke 7:22)
In other words, the evidence that Jesus is the Christ has to do with the signs that He performed. He fulfilled Old Testament prophecies concerning the Christ: Isaiah 29:18–19; 35:4–6; 42:6–7; 61:1–3; and Jeremiah 31:8. Jesus Himself declared that Isaiah 61:1–3 had been fulfilled in the hearing of the Jews in a synagogue (see Luke 4:16–21).
“And Jesus came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as was His custom, He went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and He stood up to read. And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to Him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.’ And He rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And Jesus began to say to them, ‘Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’” (Luke 4:16-21)
Even the Jewish Sanhedrin, the religious leaders during Jesus’ time, acknowledged the signs following His raising of Lazarus, who had been buried for four days. As Scripture notes, “So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council and said, ‘What are we to do? For this man (Jesus) performs many signs.’” (John 11:47)
Here’s the twist of irony: While Christians today recognize Jesus as the Christ, they often view the signs merely as miraculous deeds rather than understanding their intended biblical purpose.
Many in the contemporary Christian communities believe they can still intently heal a person of sickness. While I do not discount that God still heals today, many of the supposed miraculous healing crusades done in our generation have been proven questionable. Similarly, some insist they can still speak in tongues today. This is a serious misunderstanding of the Bible.
Let us take Mark 16:15–18 as a case study: “Jesus said to the apostles, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in My name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.’”
I do not dismiss the idea that God still performs wonders today, though they appear confined to individuals. Who would dare to handle snakes? Is anyone prepared to drink lethal poison without harm? Many claim to expel demons now, and some pastors attempt healing through the laying on of hands. Has anyone ever restored health in the precise way seen in the days of Jesus and the apostles—instantaneously?
Paul, in 1 Corinthians, teaches: “Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.” (1 Corinthians 13:8–10)
1 Corinthians 13:12 provides a key guide: “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” Paul sets a present against a future comparison—what could those represent? I believe 1 Corinthians 15 is vital for understanding his meaning. In that section, Paul outlines the time following the resurrection of the dead, the now and the then.
Paul explained the need for the resurrection of the dead; see 1 Corinthians 15:22–26: “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at His coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.”
Paul shifted his discussion to the era of Adam. At the start of the first heaven and earth, the first creation (Genesis 1:1; 2:4,15-16), God established a bilateral covenant with Adam: “You (Adam) may certainly eat from every tree in the garden, but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, because you will surely die on the day you eat from it” (Genesis 2:16–17). Did Adam perish immediately after breaking this covenant? (Genesis 3:9-11). He apparently did not; Adam lived until the age of 930 and then died, as Scripture notes (Genesis 5:5).
Paul maintains that Adam died and everyone born after him died as well (1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12,17). It is worth noting that before Adam violated God’s covenant (Hosea 6:7), God walked within the garden of Eden where He had placed Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8). Once Adam had broken the covenant, he found himself covenantally naked (Genesis 3:10), and God immediately knew he had eaten from the forbidden tree (Genesis 3:11).
Paul in 2 Corinthians touched on the topic of nakedness. However, it’s not being nude, without dress or clothing, but covenantally naked. See 2 Corinthians 5:1–10:
“For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling, if indeed by putting it on we may not be found naked.For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened—not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5:1-10)
The context of 2 Corinthians 5 traces back to chapter 3, where Paul contrasted the New Covenant with the Old—the Spirit versus the letter (2 Corinthians 3:4-6). In this passage, Paul uses tent and body to represent the Old Covenant. The Mosaic Covenant functioned as an annex to God’s covenant with Adam, which he broke bringing covenantal death to all humanity. As a result, Paul made clear that Christians should follow the Gospel rather than the Mosaic law. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, he writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to Himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17–19)
Paul’s reference in 1 Corinthians to the partial that was passing away points to the Old Covenant or Creation in Genesis 1:1. The perfect yet to come is the fullness of the New Covenant, the new heaven and new earth described in Revelation 21–22. Scripture notes, “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.” (Revelation 22:4)
In Genesis, after God had pronounced His judgment against Adam and Eve, they were banished from the Garden of Eden, preventing them from reaching out to the tree of life (Genesis 3:22-24). With the New Creation, everyone who believes in Jesus Christ now has an access back to God’s garden, where the tree of life exists. Consequently, Paul declared, “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
With the destruction of Old Covenant Jerusalem in 70 AD, the Old Covenant age ends; it passed away. However, John writes, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:16–18)
Today, everyone is free to choose. The choice is ours: would you like to be in Christ Jesus and have eternal life, or remain in the status quo, born of Adam?
Paul states, “Thus it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being’; the last Adam (Jesus) became a life-giving spirit. But it is not the spiritual that is first but the natural, and then the spiritual. The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven. As was the man of dust, so also are those who are of the dust, and as is the man of heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.” (1 Corinthians 15:45-49)
Mark, in the passages that we have covered in this article, validates that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior of the world, has come; He fulfilled all Scriptures. As John states, God did not send Jesus Christ into the world to condemn the world, but to save it.
Why then are there talks of a rapture and an earth-shaking judgment happening soon?
In Revelation 14, John states, “Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people” (Revelation 14:6). The preaching of the Gospel continues on after the destruction of Babylon the Great, which was Old Covenant Jerusalem. Keep in mind that John described Babylon the Great as the woman and the great city in Revelation 17:18. And earlier in Revelation 11:8, the Bible defined the great city as the place where Jesus was crucified, which no doubt was Jerusalem.
Mark urges his contemporaries to notice the signs of their age. We should understand that we have moved beyond that era. Living in the eternal period of grace, we need not be unsettled by worldly events; instead, we should live by faith.
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!
Our Scripture today recounts the moment Jesus called His first disciples:
> “Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, Jesus saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.’ And immediately they left their nets and followed Him. And going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed Him.” (Mark 1:16-20)
Have you ever wondered why these men immediately left everything to follow Jesus?
John’s Gospel gives us the context. Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was a disciple of John the Baptist. Knowing John’s role as the forerunner of Christ, Andrew understood that John’s declaration meant the Messiah had arrived. When John proclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” Andrew and another disciple followed Jesus and even spent the day with Him (John 1:35-42). Andrew then sought Simon and declared, “We have found the Messiah!”
Simon, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen from Galilee, which was part of the Northern tribes of Israel, referenced in Jeremiah 3:6-8 as being divorced by God. They were waiting for the promised restoration (Hosea 1:10-11). Their decision to follow Jesus was not a sudden or blind choice; it was the response of hearts that recognized the Christ, the chosen Savior of God.
Jesus’ call to become “fishers of men” is a beautiful play on words. These fishermen were no longer catching fish for a living; they were now called to draw people to God for salvation.
Our Calling Today
This story is not just for them—it is for us. Every Christian is called to live out the Gospel, even if not in full-time ministry. As Paul writes, we are to “shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life” (Philippians 2:15-16). Peter reminds us to live holy lives and love one another sincerely:
> “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct” (1 Peter 1:14-15).
> “Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God” (1 Peter 1:22-23).
The Irony in Today’s Church
It has become increasingly difficult to distinguish Christians from the world. Many who profess to follow Christ often behave worse than non-believers. Why is this happening? Because churches have tolerated wolves in sheep’s clothing, allowing them to remain in their midst and still call it a congregation of God.
Paul warns the church:
> “Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” (1 Corinthians 5:6-7)
> “I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. ‘Purge the evil person from among you.’” (1 Corinthians 5:9-13)
The church is not called to isolate itself from the world but to discipline and guard its own community. For three years, the disciples walked with Jesus, learning His teachings and living them out. The greatest threat to the church comes not from outside, but from within. Paul himself warned the elders:
> “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which Jesus obtained with His own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:28-30)
True discipleship must begin before a church is established. Paul emphasized that we are to teach faithful people who will, in turn, teach others (2 Timothy 2:2). This is the foundation of a healthy church community.
The church is not a walled building where people gather only on Sundays to repeatedly hear teachings on repentance and the basics of Christ (Hebrews 6:1-2). Instead, believers are called to live in harmony, edifying God and Christ in their daily lives. Like the first disciples, we are to respond to Christ’s call with faith and obedience, living as true witnesses of His grace and truth.
Reflections on Christ’s call
To truly follow Jesus, one must first encounter and understand who He is—His holiness, compassion, and Lordship. Without grasping His character, discipleship becomes an empty routine rather than a heartfelt response. Similarly, treasuring the Christian life is impossible without first recognizing the depth of one’s lostness and need for salvation. This awareness leads to repentance and a genuine desire for transformation. The call of Jesus is not merely an invitation but a commitment to a lifelong journey of discipleship. As Paul reminds us, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17), emphasizing that it is through God’s Word that our hearts awaken to faith and obedience.
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!
Vine’s New Testament Dictionary defines “pastor” in Greek as poimen (G4166), meaning a shepherd, one who tends herds or flocks. This term appears 18 times in the New Testament: 13 times referring to Jesus Christ, 4 times to literal shepherds at His birth, and once to pastors in Ephesians 4:11.
In 1 Peter 2:25, the Bible states: “For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” Here, Jesus is both the Shepherd (poimen, G4166) and Overseer (episkopos, G1985), often translated as bishop or elder. This raises the question: is there a difference between “pastor” and “bishop”?
1 Peter 5:1-4 provides insight:
“So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder … shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight…” This shows that elders (presbuteros, G4245) are called to shepherd (poimainō, G4165) and oversee (episkopeō, G1983). Verse 5 clarifies that presbuteros refers to seasoned believers, not necessarily overseers or bishops (episkopos, G1985). In the New Testament, episkopos appears five times (1Ti 3:2; Tit 1:7; 1Pe 2:25; Php 1:1; Act 20:28), generally in reference to church leaders.
Apart from 1 Peter 2:25, where Jesus is the Overseer of our souls, the other occurrences refer to Christian leaders tasked to care for God’s flock: “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers…” (Acts 20:28). This suggests that pastors and bishops or overseers function as under-shepherds of Christ, sharing in His ministry of guidance and care.
Paul, in Ephesians 4:11-16, identifies the pastoral office alongside apostles, prophets, evangelists, and teachers, tasked “to equip Christians for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” Biblically, a pastor is called and gifted to unify and ground believers in truth, protecting them from false teachings.
True Christian unity resides in the doctrines of the Bible, not on trivial matters. That’s exactly Paul’s assertion in Ephesians 4, “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Eph 4:4-6) Apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, and evangelists are called and appointed by Jesus Christ precisely to keep the unity of the faith. (Eph 4:1-16)
Jesus Himself taught discernment in Matthew 7:13-29, warning against false prophets and emphasizing fruit as the evidence of true ministry. Not all who claim His name are known by Him, highlighting the weight of pastoral responsibility.
Not all seminary graduates are necessarily pastors in the biblical sense. Many may be better recognized as elders (presbuteros, G4245), faithful and seasoned in the faith but not specifically called to teach. The same may be said of many elders in churches today. Faithful to God, but not necessarily equipped to teach. Paul’s instruction in 1 Timothy 5:17 reflects this distinction: “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor,especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”
The attached photo caption reads, “Can women be pastors? Let us not limit what God has not limited.” It’s a captivating phrase, but we should also remember that we shouldn’t attribute to anyone what God hasn’t given.
Discussions about whether women can be pastors should also consider the biblical framework in discussion. Women like Priscilla faithfully taught and explained the gospel (Acts 18:24-26), yet Scripture does not title her as a pastor. Respect and honor are due to all Christian leaders and faithful women, as Paul reminds in 1 Timothy 5:19-20 and Philippians 4:2-3.
Hebrews 13:7,17 exhorts believers to remember, imitate, obey, and support leaders who watch over their souls, for they will give an account to God.
Ultimately, earthly titles mean little if Christ Himself does not commend our labor. There’s vanity in human titles. Let our aim be His approval as we work in His vineyard.
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!
Our passage begins with the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. “In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when He came up out of the water, immediately He saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on Him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are My beloved Son; with You I am well pleased.’” (Mark 1:9-11)
Mark situates this moment during the ministry of John the Baptist, who was calling people to repentance and baptizing in the Jordan. Matthew’s Gospel provides more detail, showing John’s initial reluctance: “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?” (Matthew 3:14). Jesus responded, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness,” and John consented (Matthew 3:15).
Though Jesus was sinless, He submitted to baptism to fulfill God’s plan. That’s what it means when Jesus said, “to fulfill all righteousness.” John the Baptist explained the purpose of his ministry: “I myself did not know Him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that He might be revealed to Israel.” (John 1:31) Through His baptism, Jesus was publicly revealed as the Messiah, in line with the prophecies of Isaiah 40:3-5 and Malachi 3:1.
This event was divinely affirmed. The Spirit descended upon Jesus like a dove, and God the Father declared from heaven, “You are My beloved Son; with You I am well pleased” (Mark 1:10-11). The same confirmation came from God the Father at the transfiguration of Jesus (Mark 9:7; Matthew 17:5; Luke 9:35). This confirmed Jesus’ identity and His mission.
Immediately after, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness and fasted for forty days (Mark 1:13; Matthew 4:2), where He was tempted by Satan (Mark 1:12-13; Matthew 4:3-10). Unlike Adam, who fell into temptation, Jesus overcame all of Satan’s attacks, remaining sinless and faithful to God, while angels ministered to Him. (Matthew 4:11)
The apostle Paul writes, “For our sake God made Jesus to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we (the church) might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)
He also declares, “For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.” (Romans 5:19) This is the grace of God, received through faith in Christ alone.
Scripture teaches us that Abraham’s unwavering faith in God was considered righteousness (Romans 4:3). Let us be encouraged to live in obedience to God’s will, trusting in Christ, who has triumphed over sin and temptation for us. By doing so, we can also be counted as righteous, which is the essence of being followers of Jesus Christ.
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!
John the Baptist declared, “I have baptized you with water, but the Lord will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 1:8) After His resurrection, Jesus appeared for forty days, proving His resurrection and teaching about the kingdom of God. (Acts 1:3) He said, “You heard from Me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1:4–5) This was fulfilled in the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4):
> “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, identified this event as the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy (Acts 2:14–21), declaring that God’s Spirit would be poured out on all flesh, culminating in salvation for “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord” (Acts 2:21).
Jesus had earlier told Nicodemus that a person must be “born of water and the Spirit” to enter God’s kingdom (John 3:5). He later told His disciples, those who had stayed with Him, saying, “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63), showing the deep connection between the Spirit and the Word of God. Paul affirms this in Ephesians 5:25–26, saying Christ sanctifies the Church by “the washing of water with the Word.”
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance, pointing forward to Christ (Acts 19:1–7). But the true baptism that saves is the baptism of Jesus—by the Word, which is the Spirit. As John himself said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30w). When the Gospel is proclaimed, the Spirit comes with it, as seen in Acts 10:44–46, where the Holy Spirit fell on Gentiles simply by hearing the Word, without any laying on of hands.
Scripture also clearly states that Jesus Himself never baptized with water (John 4:1–2). Paul declared, “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.” (1 Corinthians 1:17) Salvation, therefore, is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–22), with the Spirit and the Word working as one. Peter confirms that Scripture is Spirit-inspired (2 Peter 1:20–21), and Paul affirms that the Gospel—the law of the Spirit of life (i.e., the Gospel)—frees believers from the law of sin and death (Genesis 2:16-17; Romans 8:1–4).
In essence, the baptism of the Holy Spirit is the cleansing and life-giving work of God through His Word, fulfilling John’s prophecy about Jesus Christ and securing eternal life for all who believe in His Word.
The Bible declares:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
“And the Word became flesh and lived among us. We have seen His glory, the glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)
“For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:16-17)
Here’s an honest question then: Why do some pastors imply there’s something special to be baptized at the Jordan River? Isn’t baptism at the Jordan River the epitome of John’s baptism, which cannot save one who has not received the Holy Spirit? If we have been baptized as Christians, is it not then a regression to submit ourselves for baptism at the Jordan River?
Christ’s Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls us not only to baptize but also to teach believers to obey all that He has commanded. While water baptism is an outward sign of faith and an important act of obedience, the mission of the Church goes beyond this initial step. If we recognize that the Holy Spirit works through the Word of God, then the emphasis must be on guiding Christians to live according to His Word—allowing the Spirit to transform their hearts and actions. Assurance of salvation is vital, but it should be coupled with ongoing discipleship, where believers are taught, challenged, and equipped to follow the commands of Christ daily. True discipleship involves a life shaped by the Word, not just a moment of ritual.
The parable of the sower, as taught by Jesus Christ, affirms that genuine Christian transformation occurs when one hears and truly understands the Word of God (Matthew 13:23). In harmony with this, Paul teaches in Romans that faith is born through hearing—specifically, by hearing the words of Christ (Romans 10:17).
Here’s the call for all of us Christians: If we truly desire to improve the church, we must return to the Bible. Let us relearn the authentic teachings of Scripture and let go of traditions that have, over time, weakened the church. Together, we can make the church shine as the true light of the world by faithfully reflecting the teachings of Jesus Christ.
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 Gospel of Matthew uniquely includes the episode where Peter asks Jesus to command him to walk on water, and he does so until fear causes him to sink (Matthew 14:28-30). This detail sheds light on Matthew’s particular portrayal of Peter. While other preachers often highlight Peter’s sinking due to doubt, this reflection focuses on why Matthew made this addition.
Yes, this portion of Matthew’s narrative teaches about the significance of faith. But on a bigger perspective it teaches something more.
Among the Gospels, Matthew mentions Peter most frequently. Matthew also records Peter’s profound confession when Jesus asked, “But who do you say that I am?” to which Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:15-16). This confession leads to one of the Gospel’s central declarations:
> “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this Rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…” (Matthew 16:17-19)
Only in Matthew do we find Jesus explicitly introducing His Church in connection with the Kingdom of heaven. It is no coincidence that Peter became the first to stand and preach at Pentecost, marking the Church’s beginning. (Acts 2:14-41)
The Church is built on the power of Christ’s resurrection. Jesus said in John 2:19, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up,” which John explains as referring to the temple of His body (John 2:21). The New Testament repeatedly identifies the Church as the body and temple of Christ:
“Do you not know that you [the church] are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)
“Your body [the body of believers] is a temple of the Holy Spirit… glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
“We are the temple of the living God…” (2 Corinthians 6:16)
“You… are members of the household of God… built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:19-22)
“You… like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house.” (1 Peter 2:4-5)
Matthew’s Gospel reveals Peter’s highs and lows. He is praised for his confession but quickly rebuked for trying to hinder Christ’s mission (Matthew 16:21-24). He follows Jesus after His arrest yet denies Him three times (Matthew 26:58-75). Still, upon learning Jesus’ missing body, he runs to the empty tomb (John 20:1-4). Peter’s journey mirrors that of many believers—bold in faith yet imperfect—and yet still used by Christ for His glory.
This pattern continues in the Church today. Christ builds His Church through ordinary, flawed but willing people, both those who proclaim His Word and those who support the work as “fellow workers for the truth” (3 John 1:5-8). As Paul states:
> “We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
The Church is a unified spiritual body with diverse functions (Romans 12:4-8). History bears this out: Martin Luther could not have led the Reformation without the support of Prince Frederick III, which allowed him to translate the Bible into the language of the people.
Ultimately, the Church rests on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). God’s Word must remain central. Jesus uses humble and imperfect believers who obey His Word to advance His work. May we take this biblical pattern to heart, learning to serve faithfully in the building of Christ’s Church.
Learning from Peter
Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love Me more than these?” The “these” could have referred to the food they had just eaten, or perhaps even Peter’s livelihood as a fisherman, because the context of John 21 shows the disciples returning to fishing, catching fish instead of men. (John 21:1-14) Each time Peter responded, Jesus commissioned him: “Feed My lambs,” “Tend My sheep,” “Feed My sheep” (John 21:14-17).
Peter’s answers shifted slightly. The first two times, he said, “Yes, Lord; You know I love You.” (John 21:15-16) But the third reply revealed a deeper surrender: “Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You.” (John 21:17)
This exchange reminds us to surrender fully to Jesus Christ. As Scripture says, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.” (Zechariah 4:6) He alone knows our hearts, our fears, and our struggles. Jesus also declared, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” (John 6:63) His Word carries His Spirit and power. Therefore, remain in His Word and let Him be your strength. Keep your focus on Jesus, and we will not sink. Jesus calls on us Christians to be fishers of men (Matthew 4:19), not to become Satan, setting our minds not on the things of God but on things of men (Matthew 16:23).
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!
In our Bibles, the Old Testament ends with Malachi, and the New Testament begins with Matthew. Malachi is often regarded as the last prophet to speak directly to Israel, and after his prophecy, there was a span of roughly four hundred years before John the Baptist appeared. This period mirrors the time between Joseph’s passing (Genesis 50:26) and the rise of Moses, when Israel endured four centuries of slavery in Egypt. God’s words to Abraham were fulfilled, as stated in Genesis 15:13-14:
> “Then the LORD said to Abram, ‘Know for certain that your offspring will be sojourners in a land that is not theirs and will be servants there, and they will be afflicted for four hundred years. But I will bring judgment on the nation that they serve, and afterward they shall come out with great possessions.’”
During those four hundred silent years in Egypt, Scripture records nothing new, and God seemed silent. It was only in Exodus 2:24 that we read:
> “And God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.”
From the time of Malachi to the ministry of John the Baptist, history repeated itself with another four hundred years of silence. The arrival of Jesus Christ signified the culmination of this period, a moment that could be called the Second Exodus. Luke 9:30-31 affirms this during the transfiguration:
> “And behold, two men talked with Jesus, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of His exodus, which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.”
For the second time, Jesus Christ was leading Israel out of bondage—this time from the law into grace (John 1:14-17). Paul highlights this transition in Galatians 3:23: “Before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed.” Understanding this backdrop is crucial to grasping the Gospel of Mark.
The first instance of this is mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Corinthians, describing the exodus. He emphasizes that the ancestors of the Jews were all under the cloud, passed through the sea, and were baptized into Moses in both the cloud and the sea. They shared the same spiritual nourishment and drank from the spiritual Rock that accompanied them, which was Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:1-4)
Now, Mark begins by declaring Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the beginning of the Gospel. He cites two Old Testament prophecies, though he attributes them to Isaiah alone:
> “As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, who will prepare Your way, the voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.”’”
The two referenced prophets are Isaiah (40:3) and Malachi (3:1). John the Baptist, therefore, is presented as the partial fulfillment of these prophecies, with the complete fulfillment through the coming of Jesus Christ.
Malachi 3:1 foretold:
> “Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, He is coming, says the LORD of hosts.”
Mark then introduces John the Baptist:
> “John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were coming to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, ‘After me comes He who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’” (Mark 1:2-8)
John’s message, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2), puzzled many. The Jews knew Old Testament prophecy well, and Daniel had foretold that God’s kingdom would appear during the reign of the Fourth Gentile Kingdom—Rome—following Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece. With John and Jesus’ arrival, the kingdom of God had indeed come.
Yet, as in John’s day, people today debate whether the kingdom truly arrived, expecting an earthly utopia. Many Jews back in the days of John and Jesus were also disheartened when political circumstances did not change, remaining under Roman rule. Judas Iscariot, a Zealot hoping for rebellion, betrayed Jesus when his expectations were unmet. Despite spending three years with Jesus, Judas never abandoned his own agenda.
Jesus confirmed John’s role as the Elijah who was to come:
> “From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.” (Matthew 11:12-14)
Understanding these truths lays the proper foundation for studying the Gospel of Mark, which shows Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets (Matthew 5:17; Luke 24:25-27) and the dawn of God’s kingdom.
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!
Paul’s teaching in Romans 8:6 presents a direct contrast between life in the flesh and life in the Spirit. The Spirit reflects the life-giving reality of the Gospel, while the flesh signifies the law of sin and death, first introduced in Genesis 2:16-17. To set one’s mind on the flesh results in spiritual death, but to embrace the Spirit leads to life and peace.
See story in Genesis:
> “The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, ‘You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’” (Genesis 2:15-17)
> “Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.’” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the “Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.’” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.” (Genesis 3:1-6)
If you asked why God allowed the Serpent to be in the Garden of Eden? Click here for explainer: Fall of the Cherub
Paul calls believers to leave behind the bondage of sin and step into the freedom and renewal that the Spirit of Christ offers.
In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul emphasizes the transformation that takes place when one fully embraces the Gospel rather than clinging to the Mosaic Law— an annex to a temporary remedy for the violation of the First Covenant (i.e., Genesis 2:16-17). He urges believers to lift their focus from earthly concerns to heavenly priorities, drawing a distinction between those trapped in worldly fears and those living by faith in Christ.
The religious leaders in John 11:47-48 illustrate the mindset of those bound to the world and the law. Their fear of losing their power and nation kept them from recognizing the Messiah before them. In contrast, the repentant thief in Luke 23:42 reflects a heart that had released earthly attachments to place hope entirely in Christ’s kingdom.
Paul’s exhortation is to maintain a heavenly perspective even while fulfilling earthly duties. Though life’s responsibilities persist, the believer’s central pursuit should be God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). By living in the Spirit, believers experience genuine life and peace, as the Gospel reorients the heart from the temporary and visible to the eternal and unseen.
Ultimately, Paul invites believers to self-examination: Are we still consumed by the world, or have we truly set our minds on the things above where Christ reigns?
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 Serpent, identified in Revelation 12:9 as Satan, first appears as the tempter in Eden (Genesis 3). In Ezekiel 28:12–15, he is described as a fallen guardian cherub. God uses the fall of this angel to illustrate the pride and arrogance of the king of Tyre:
“Son of man, raise a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say to him, Thus says the Lord GOD: You were the signet of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, emerald, and carbuncle; and crafted in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared. You were an anointed guardian cherub. I placed you; you were on the holy mountain of God; in the midst of the stones of fire you walked. You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created, till unrighteousness was found in you.” (Ezekiel 28:12-15)
This passage reveals that the Serpent was not created to tempt. He began as a perfect guardian cherub but later rebelled against God and deceived Eve.
Humanity’s Choice
Adam, created in God’s image (Genesis 5:1), ultimately chose disobedience. Like the fallen cherub, he turned away from God. Yet here lies the great difference: while fallen angels were not offered redemption, humanity received an invitation to reconciliation. Sin did not end the story—God’s mercy opened the path to hope.
The Wonder of Salvation
The mystery of salvation is so profound that even angels long to understand it. 1 Peter 1:12 declares:
> It was revealed to the Old Testament prophets that they were serving not themselves but you— the church— in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.
Paul echoes this in Ephesians 3:10:
> So that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.
The fall of angels highlights the tragedy of rebellion, while the redemption of humanity showcases the glory of God’s salvation—a story that moves heaven to awe and calls us to worship.
God’s Answer to Human Suffering
We must stop blaming God for the world’s suffering, for He gave humanity the freedom to choose. Through Adam, sin entered the world, and with it, suffering. But in Christ, redemption is offered:
> “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:22)
God’s blessings are not only spiritual. Paul reminds us:
> “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32)
And he reassures us:
> “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?… No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:35-37)
Through Christ, suffering has meaning and victory is assured.
The Church’s Call to Renewal
The modern church, at times, has failed to fully embrace Paul’s revelation of God’s manifold wisdom. Too often, deep theology is avoided, and the church is reduced to the image of a sanctuary for the imperfect, rather than a community of people being actively transformed. We are familiar with the common saying: “The church is a hospital for the sick.” Yet Paul’s exhortation challenges this limited view:
> “Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed…” (1 Corinthians 5:7-8)
Paul also instructs the believers in Colossians 3:5-17 to put away the old self, embracing the life of Christ through love, forgiveness, and thanksgiving. Likewise, Peter reminds the church:
Peter states, > “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as God who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’” (1 Peter 1:14-16)
The message is unmistakable: the church is called to be a visible testimony of transformation, embodying God’s holiness and love for the world to see.
Credit: Photo owned by Alexandre Cabanel — Fallen Angel
Conclusion
It all began with the fall of a cherub. Followed by the fall of Adam. Yet, Jesus reminds us of a profound truth:
> “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” (John 12:24-26)
Credit: Photo owned by Scott Roberts
In this passage, Jesus reveals His death and resurrection, was the ultimate act of sacrifice and fruitful surrender. It highlights the contrast between the pride of the fallen cherub and the humble journey of those who choose to follow Christ. By fully submitting to the will of the Father and dying on the cross, Jesus shows the path to true life. Likewise, when we die to ourselves, we gain eternal life, and in faithfully serving our Lord Jesus, we receive the honor that comes from the Father.
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!
