Today we held our weekly family gathering, which includes only my wife, our two daughters, and me. We started this tradition shortly after leaving organized or conventional church. Over time, others joined us, and wanting to share the grace we’ve experienced with those attending, we opened our meetups to their family members, resulting in our Sunday gatherings. Unfortunately, due to negative comments and intrigues from people around their family members causing disharmony, learning from Scripture’s example, we decided to focus solely on those who are genuinely seeking the truth. We hope that as they become better equipped, they will reach out to their own families later.
Meanwhile, I noticed that during our online Sunday Bible studies, my family often felt left out because most of the interaction occurred with people meeting me online. They were right beside me, yet unable to participate or see screen shares. With my wife’s support, I decided to hold separate sessions exclusively for our family. As a result, I now have a second session every Sunday, in addition to our regular Bible study session.
Despite an awkward start today, I was able to communicate the importance of remaining faithful in studying God’s word. We ended the session on a positive note, and the initial discomfort faded. I pray that our devotion to studying God’s word will help them navigate the challenges and questions they face in life.
True blessings come from God’s words. We should not only hear God’s words but also strive to understand them if we desire to be the good soil described by Christ Jesus (Matthew 13:23; Luke 8:15). We came to faith not solely for ourselves but so that our lights may shine before others. This is especially true for our children and partners in life. Jesus Christ said, “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks he has will be taken away.” (Luke 8:16-18)
Our claim to Christian faith holds no meaning unless God’s word lives within us and shines before others. As James says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22)
Paul adds, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1 Timothy 4:16)
I share this as a reminder and encouragement to my Christian friends: prioritize your first ministry—your family. I use the word “first,” not “primary,” because your family is within your immediate sphere of influence. Therefore, I do not suggest they be your priority, especially if they do not align with you in faith. That’s why Jesus gave the challenge to anyone who wants to follow Him: “Do not think 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 set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:34-39)
Parents, everyone comes to faith under different circumstances. It’s rare, like us, to find faith after the loss of a loved one, such as our son. However, our circumstances shouldn’t be an excuse. For those whose families have disagreements with the faith, it becomes their ministry field. As Christians, we shouldn’t yield to opposition; instead, we should be strong in our faith. Otherwise, how will our light shine before them?
On the other hand, if family members become too destructive and resist the faith, you may need to live your faith in the midst of opposition. In such cases, we might have to adopt Christ’s words in Matthew 10:14: “And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.” I don’t mean to abandon them; instead, we should continue to keep them in our prayers. Perhaps, by God’s grace and mercy, they too will find their way to Him in time.
Meanwhile, like a soldier preparing for a battle, Christians should be trained and discipled so that when the time comes, we are equipped to lead our once hostile family or loved ones to the faith.
The Christian life or journey is not always a smooth ride; there will always be humps and bumps. However, if we truly want to reach our destination or goal, we must persevere through the rough terrain until we achieve our objective.
The Bible, at least four times, expresses the idea that “what is impossible to man, all things are possible with God.” Therefore, we should not give up but keep our faith in God.
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!
Some Christian pastors argue that the church vanished after Revelation 3, suggesting that this indicates the rapture of the church. However, consider the photo above: did everything around the mushroom disappear, or was the focus solely on the mushroom? This analogy suggests that the idea of a church rapture is not necessarily valid. Rather, John shifts his focus to the judgment of Old Covenant Israel. This is evident in Revelation 11:15, where the seventh angel blows his trumpet, and heavenly voices proclaim, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”
In John’s Gospel (the Book of Revelation was also written by him), Christ Jesus, confronted by the Sanhedrin, the religious order of the Jews, declared, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would have been fighting so that I might not be handed over to the Jews. But My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36)
Therefore, the kingdom that Christ Jesus conquered was that of the Old Covenant Israel. In Matthew 21, when confronted by the chief priests and Jewish elders, questioning His signs and authority to teach, Jesus Christ responded, “Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits” (Matthew 21:43). Now, let’s consider the language of imminence that Christ Jesus spoke to the seven churches in Revelation.
First, to Ephesus, “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I WILL COME TO YOU and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I WILL GRANT TO EAT OF THE TREE OF LIFE, which is in the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:5-7)
Repentance is only possible during one’s lifetime, not after death, as demonstrated by Christ’s teachings in the story of Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16:19-31). Therefore, Jesus’ warning is directed at the living church of Ephesus, urging them to repent before His return. Isn’t it logical then that Jesus implied His return would be in their lifetime?
Second, to Smyrna, “Don’t be afraid of what you’re about to endure. The devil is about to imprison some of you for ten days, testing your faith. Be steadfast until death, and I’ll give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. THE ONE WHO CONQUERS WON’T BE HARMED BY THE SECOND DEATH.” (Revelation 2:10-11)
The second death occurred at the final judgment of Christ Jesus, as described in Revelation 20:11-15. Concerning Christ’s deliverance and justice, refer to Luke 18:1-8, where Christ delivers a parable about an unjust judge. Jesus emphasizes the swift and imminent nature of His justice, stating that it would be speedy. I doubt the faithful Christians of Smyrna understood a millennial as the idea of such swift justice. However, it’s important to note that Christ’s teachings in Luke 18:1-8 were delivered in the context of Luke 17:20-31, where Jesus speaks about the coming of His kingdom. More importantly, in Luke 18:8, Jesus implicitly assures His disciples that His swift justice would be with them during their lifetime. Jesus said “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8)
Third, to Pergamum, “Repent, or I’LL COME TO YOU SOON and wage war against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers, I’ll give some of the hidden manna and a white stone with a new name written on it, a name known only to the one who receives it.” (Revelation 2:16-17)
Jesus prophesied that His coming to Christians in Pergamum would be imminent, not a millennium later. Why do Christians choose to complicate the straightforward statements of Christ Jesus? Keep in mind that Jesus Christ warns not to add or deduct from His Words written in Revelation: “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!” (Revelation 22:18-20)
Fourth, to Tyatira, “HOLD ON TO WHAT YOU HAVE UNTIL I RETURN. The one who conquers and keeps My works until the end will receive authority over the nations and rule them with an iron rod, just as I received authority from My Father.” (Revelation 2:25-27)
Isn’t “until I return” an assurance of imminent arrival? Jesus Christ, once again, assures churches of John’s lifetime that they should keep the faith because He is coming soon.
Fifth, to Sardis, “remember what you received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you don’t wake up, I WILL COME LIKE A THIEF, and you won’t know when I will attack you again. However, there are still a few names in Sardis, people who haven’t defiled themselves, and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. The one who conquers will be clothed in white garments, and I will never erase his name from the book of life. I will proclaim his name before My Father and before His angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 3:3-6)
The phrase “coming like a thief” suggests that Jesus’ return will be an unexpected event. This underscores the significance of the church’s role during this momentous occasion. If no one is present to witness it, what purpose does it serve for Christ to emphasize to the church that His return will be like a thief in the night? It’s important to remember that this message was addressed to the church during John’s time. In other words, the church wouldn’t have a precise understanding of the exact time of Christ’s return, but it would certainly be within the lifetime of John and his immediate audience.
Sixth, to Philadelphia, “I AM COMING SOON. Hold on to what you have so that no one can take away your crown. The one who conquers will become a pillar in the temple of My God. They will never leave it, and I will write on them the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which descends from My God from heaven, and My own new name.” (Revelation 3:11-12)
I suppose this time, it’s quite straightforward to understand. Jesus Christ had promised Christians in Philadelphia that His return would be imminent, not in the distant future of churches during John’s lifetime, but even ours, as futurists have led many to believe.
Lastly, the seventh, to Laodicea, “Behold, I STAND AT THE DOOR AND KNOCK. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to them and eat with them, and they will eat with Me. The one who conquers will be granted a place with Me on My throne, just as I 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.” (Revelation 3:20-22)
Jesus Christ was speaking to the church of Laodicea, not to us. This is a recurring theme in John’s writings, referring to churches in his lifetime. Unless you believe that John would remain alive, as John clarified in his Gospel that this was not what Christ had told Peter. Instead, John wrote, “Jesus said to Peter, ‘If it is My will that he (John) remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!’” See John 21:20-25. Can you comprehend Christ’s declaration to Peter? Or have you been blinded by tradition to the point where it seems incomprehensible to you? Jesus Christ implicitly communicated to Peter that His return would occur during John’s lifetime.
Christ Jesus has fulfilled His purpose and promises. He declared that He alone would establish His church. The church is eternal, and even Hades has no power over it as seen in Matthew 16:18-19. The church is not just a parenthesis to Israel, its fulfillment signals the end of Old Covenant Israel. Keep in mind that “hades and death” were thrown to the lake of fire before John declared the passing of the first heaven and first earth and the coming of the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1). Incidentally, the first heaven and the first earth refer to the Old Covenant, while the New Heaven and New Earth is the New Covenant. Consequently, Paul explained in 2 Corinthians 5:16-17, “From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh (that is, circumcision). 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.”
See Galatians 6:11-15, for a parallel teaching of Paul on circumcision and flesh: “See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing IN THE FLESH WHO WOULD FORCE YOU TO BE CIRCUMCISED, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. FOR NEITHER CIRCUMCISION COUNTS FOR ANYTHING, NOR UNCIRCUMCISION, BUT A NEW CREATION.”
I completely understand if my discussion here might have confused you. I was in a similar situation many years ago. However, after being persuaded by Christ’s words, I dedicated myself to a serious and sincere study of God’s word. Today, there is a resurgence of Christians embracing the authentic teachings of the Bible. If you want to understand, all you need to do is to keep your focus, read, and study the Bible. While reading the Bible, avoid getting sidetracked by unnecessary details and focus on the main subject. In God’s own time, you will fully comprehend Scripture.
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!
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!
I’ve heard of many preachers and read devotionals that emphasize Peter’s conviction, love, and commitment to Jesus Christ in John 21. In this passage, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love Me more than these?” (John 21:15-17). However, have we ever considered what Jesus meant by “these”?
To clarify, let’s examine the context of the story. In John 20:21, Jesus commands Peter and the other apostles to go out and preach the Gospel, saying, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so I am sending you.” This took place in Jerusalem soon after Christ’s resurrection.
Jesus first appeared to His apostles twice in Jerusalem. The first time is detailed in John 20:19-23, and the second time, with Thomas present, is described in John 20:24-29. John 21 aligns with Matthew 28:9-10, which summarizes the events of John 20:19-29, where Jesus instructs them to leave Jerusalem and wait for Him in Galilee, promising another appearance. Acts 1:3 informs us that Jesus appeared to the apostles multiple times over forty days, teaching them about the kingdom of God, His last appearance being in Jerusalem before His ascension to heaven (Acts 1:3-11).
The setting of John 21:1-3 is in Galilee, where Peter decided to go fishing with some of the other disciples, many of whom were fishermen by trade. This leads me to pose a few questions: Was Peter faithful to the words of Christ? Didn’t Peter and the other apostles receive the Holy Spirit when Jesus breathed on them in Jerusalem (John 20:19-22)? Hadn’t Jesus called Peter to follow Him even before His crucifixion, death, and resurrection (John 1:40-43)? Previously, when Jesus first called them, He said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:18-19; Mark 1:16-17). Notice that John 21 begins by telling us that Peter and the others went fishing.
Returning to the central question: When Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me more than these?”, was He referring to Peter’s former profession or perhaps his need for provision and food? Did Peter forget Jesus’ teaching on trusting God for provision when they were initially sent out in Matthew 10? Jesus instructed, “Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food” (Matthew 10:9-10). Once more, it’s worth noting that Christ’s words address the apostles, urging them not to be concerned about food or provisions. Jesus is fully aware of their needs.
In some ways, Peter seems to have faltered. So, did Peter prove himself faithful in John 21?
Now, consider the remarkable catch of fish described in John 21:5-11. After fishing all night and catching nothing (John 21:3-4), it was only after Jesus told them to cast their net on the right side of the boat that they caught a large number of fish. Was it because they cast their net on the right side that they succeeded? I am convinced they tried both sides throughout the night without success. This substantial catch teaches us that it was ultimately Jesus’ work, reinforcing the lesson that God is our true provider, as emphasized in Matthew 6:24-33.
Here are the highlights of Jesus’ teaching:
You cannot serve both God and money. Jesus urges us to let go of our anxieties about life—what we will eat or drink, and what we will wear. Is life not more than food and the body more than clothing? Consider the birds of the air: they neither sow, reap, nor gather into barns, yet our heavenly Father provides for them. Are we not of greater value than they?
Reflect on the lilies of the field and their effortless growth: they neither toil nor spin. Yet, Jesus assure us, even Solomon in all his glory was not adorned like one of these. If God so beautifully clothes the grass of the field, which flourishes today and is cast into the oven tomorrow, will He not care for us even more, O you of little faith?
Do not be anxious, asking, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?”, for those who do not believe chase after such things, yet our heavenly Father knows our needs. Instead, .
David, in one of his Psalms, stated, “I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread” (Psalms 37:25).
Peter, along with the other apostles and ourselves, must learn to have faith so that we may faithfully follow Jesus Christ and honor His Word.
John’s narrative does not end here. For the third time, Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me?” (John 21:17). After Peter’s response, Jesus assured him that he would be faithful and would ultimately die a martyr’s death, reiterating His call to follow Him (John 17-19).
Hold your horses! Haven’t we been told by preachers and devotionals that Jesus used the Greek word “agápē” (G25) for love on two occasions? However, on the third occasion, out of compassion for Peter’s inability to meet such a high standard of love, Jesus used “phileō” instead. A quick search using a lexicon reveals that when Jesus spoke of God’s love for Him, He also used “phileō.” This is evident in John 5:20: “For the Father loves (phileō) the Son and shows Him all that He Himself is doing. And greater works than these will He show Him, so that you may marvel.” Therefore, Jesus didn’t lower His demand for love from Peter; the same can be said for us. It is a myth to claim that God or Jesus Christ lowered His standard for humanity. If that were the case, then Jesus would not have needed to offer Himself and die on the cross to redeem those of us who believe, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21.
Let’s revisit our discussion on John 21. No one can be truly faithful to Jesus Christ unless God performs a significant work in our hearts. Remember that God is the potter and we are His clay. Just as a potter sometimes destroys his creations to perfect them, Jesus—our potter—works on Peter and on us. Therefore, do not despair if you fail repeatedly. Instead, continue to heed Jesus’ call to follow Him.
After Jesus revealed to Peter that he would soon be faithful, Peter remained anxious and impatient, eager to know about others. He asked Jesus about John, as seen in John 21:20-21:
“Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved (John) following them, the one who also had leaned back against him during supper and had asked, ‘Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?’ When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, what about this man?’”
In response, Jesus lovingly rebuked Peter while encouraging him, revealing His timeline for return as stated in John 21:22-23:
“Jesus said to him (Peter), ‘If it is My will that he (John) remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!’ So the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, ‘If it is My will that he (John) remain until I come, what is that to you?’”
This was not the only instance where Jesus assured that His return would be within the lifetime of John and perhaps some other disciples, as noted in Matthew 16:28.
Jesus declared to His apostles, “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).
Are there any apostles of Jesus Christ still living today? Perhaps they are just hiding away, reminiscent of the conspiracies about Elvis Presley still being alive in some discreet location. Alternatively, should we trust Christ’s declaration to His apostles that He truly returned, which contradicts much of what is taught today?
Additionally, in Matthew 10, before sending out His apostles to proclaim the imminent coming of His kingdom, Jesus said, “When they persecute you 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” (Matthew 10:23).
If you approach the scriptures with an open heart and set aside any preconceived notions about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, you will find consistent affirmations from the apostles regarding this truth. While many people believe that Christ’s return is still in the future, Jesus has consistently stated that His coming is soon. However, “soon” was meant for His apostles, not for us.
I want to highlight that John assured us his writing was truthful. In John 21:24, it states, “This is the disciple who is bearing witness about these things, and who has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true.”
In John 20-21, John assures his readers that Jesus is truly alive. He emphasizes this in John 21:14, which states, “This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after He was raised from the dead.”
This is the core message John conveys to his immediate audience and to everyone reading his Gospel today. Both Peter and John, along with all the followers of Jesus at that time, received the comforting assurance that Jesus’ return would happen within their lifetimes.
As I conclude this sharing, I encourage you to consider a few questions: Could Jesus lie? Was He mistaken in telling His apostles that He would return in their lifetime? Or is it possible that biblical scholars, preachers, and pastors are wrong in asserting that the Second Coming is still to come?
Your answers to these questions will reflect your understanding of Jesus Christ. Remember that Jesus is the promised prophet mentioned in Deuteronomy 18:15-22.
Here are the highlights of Deuteronomy 18:15-22:
The LORD your God will raise up a prophet like Moses from among the Israelites—listen to Him. Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, testifies that Jesus Christ is the promised Great Prophet of God (Acts 3:19-23).
God will raise a prophet from among the Israelites, placing His words in His mouth. Those who do not listen will be held accountable. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of this promised prophet (John 8:28; John 12:49-50; John 15:15).
A prophet who speaks in God’s name without His command or claims to speak in the name of other gods shall die. If you are wondering how to determine whether the word the LORD has not spoken, know that if a prophet’s predictions do not come true, that message is not from the LORD, and you need not fear such a prophet. So here is the thing: Anyone who insists that Christ Jesus did not return during the lifetime of His apostles is essentially accusing Jesus of being a false prophet or a liar. Isn’t that blasphemy?
I understand that this topic can be confusing. If you choose to believe Christ’s declaration about His imminent return, you may be left with many questions. I empathize with your journey and assure you that sincere inquiry will lead to understanding. Keep in mind that this quest for truth is vital.
In conclusion, the Gospels teach us the truth about Jesus Christ and serve as an apologetic against false teaching. We should hold preachers accountable for their messages. John 21 focuses on Jesus, not Peter, so let’s refrain from moralizing biblical characters like Peter, Paul, or others. Do not let yourself be shortchanged. Reject feel-good messages that do not contain God’s truth. Always ask, “Is it sound teaching?”
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!
Jesus Christ in John 10 proclaims, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11). This declaration echoes Ezekiel 34:11, where the Lord God declares, “Behold, I, I Myself will search for My sheep and will seek them out.”
Christ Jesus came to fulfill both the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17-18). If He had arrived and left other Old Testament Scriptures unfulfilled for millennia, then His Word would have been deemed incomplete. However, Christ Jesus is the Word (John 1:1-5, 14-18), and He has undoubtedly fulfilled all His promises. Therefore, it is our responsibility to reconcile His teachings with our own.
Being ridiculed by the religious leaders of Israel for mingling with sinners and tax-collectors, Jesus Christ then told them two parables:
“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:4-10)
In Christ’s parable, the lost sheep represents the sinners and tax collectors who are seeking salvation through His words and teachings. If Jesus Christ fulfills the prophecy in Ezekiel 34 as the Shepherd of God’s flock, then it follows that those who oppose Him and His message are false shepherds.
If God condemned the false shepherds of the Old Testament, would He not do the same today for pastors who do not guide people to His Word?
Christianity centers on God’s Word. Men’s traditions have no authority over God’s Word. Christ Jesus and His Word is the final arbiter of faith and truth.
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!
At its inception, Christianity was not divided. Scripture states, “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” (Ephesians 4:4-6). Here, Paul refers to the church as the “body” (Ephesians 1:22-23). However, today we see Christians divided among themselves. Why is this the case? Is it solely due to differences in doctrine? Many Christians tend to avoid discussing theological doctrines in order to maintain the unity of the church.
The real issue is not doctrine itself, but rather false doctrines. This concern is echoed in the letters of Paul, Peter, and other New Testament writers. Therefore, Christians should study the Bible to understand the true doctrines of Scripture and achieve unity in faith. This is precisely the goal of our ministry: to teach Christians how to rightly interpret the Word of God.
Unfortunately, many pastors, despite their seminary training, choose to adhere to the writings of men. It is essential for all Christians to agree that the Bible is the only book inspired by God, inerrant, and the sole source of truth for faith. If God’s workers continue down this path, it is not surprising that Christianity remains fragmented, incohesive, and divided.
I was once told, “Pastor, your ministry might not interest a lot of people.” However, we are not seeking a large audience, but rather individual Christians who are eager to deepen their understanding of Scripture. The apostle Paul instructed, “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).
Christians, do not settle for simply listening and hearing. Be like the Bereans; learn to verify teachings against Scripture. Paul warned, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by doing so you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16).
Scripture also states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14:12). Follow Jesus Christ and His Word—He alone is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
If Christians are united in their faith, there should be minimal conflict. But it has to be the right doctrine and faith. Our ministry’s goal is to strengthen and unify that faith. However, we recognize that this is not always easy, especially within a congregation. Jesus Christ didn’t convert five thousand people at once; He initially started with twelve, one of whom would betray Him. Therefore, it is important to start with individuals or a small group and allow growth to happen naturally.
Jesus Christ told a parable, saying, “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.” (Mat 13:31-32)
Paul teaches, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” (1Co 3:6)
Pastors and Christians need to understand that we are not tasked with building the church; rather, we are called to equip people with the Word of God. It is Christ Jesus alone who builds His church, as stated in Mattew 16:18. Scripture said, “So then you (that is, Gentile believers) are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints (Jewish Christians) and members of the household of God (the church), built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets (Scripture, both New & Old), Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In Him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” (Eph 2:19-22)
Numbers do not mean anything to God; rather, it is the quality and character of His people that matters.
The Bible teaches, “After this many of His (Jesus Christ’s) disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him. So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil.”” (Jhn 6:66-70)
At the end of the day, only those who are truly converted and understand the Scripture well will continue to live in faith and spread the 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 freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!
In John 9, Jesus’ disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:2-3)
What did Jesus mean by “the works of God”? In John 6:29, we see that the work of God is for people to believe in Jesus Christ, whom He has sent.
John 9 is not solely about miracles and healings; rather, John emphasizes that these events are signs of Christ Jesus (John 20:30-31). Before Christ’s coming, the Jews experienced four hundred years of silence from God—where no miracles or words were spoken (What were the 400 years of silence? | GotQuestions.org; I disagree with the last sentence on this site. To understand why, visit my blog site https://unlearningtraditionrelearningscripture.com). Malachi foretold that Israel should anticipate the arrival of a forerunner preceding the coming of Christ Jesus (Malachi 3:1-5; 4:1-6). Thus, the signs performed by Christ announced His arrival (John 7:31). Although recognized by the religious leaders, they ultimately rejected Jesus, misleading Israel and condemning Him to the cross (John 11:47-48).
Are we faithfully bringing Jesus Christ to the awareness of others? Is our teaching about Jesus Christ aligned with Scripture? As Christians, are we living lives that reflect God’s grace?
We must always be vigilant about what we teach. It is essential to convey only the truths found in Scripture. Paul warned against those who teach about another Jesus or another Gospel (Galatians 1:6-7; 2 Corinthians 11:3-4).
“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.” (Galatians 1:6-7)
“But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough.” (2 Corinthians 11:3-4)
Let us learn only from the Word of God and not from men. Jesus Christ told a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when fully trained will be like his teacher.” (Luke 6:39-40)
True teaching of God’s Word is only truly learned when one is thoroughly trained in it. While reading men’s writings can sometimes be helpful, it should always be approached with discernment and discretion. We must be careful not to repeat the mistakes of others, as this could lead us to mislead those we teach. If that happens, can we still claim to be doing the work of God, which is to lead people to believe in 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 freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!
Can a Christian claim to believe in Jesus Christ and yet be ignorant of His Word? This is the paradox of modern Christianity.
As John 1:14-18 and John 1:1 make clear, Jesus Christ is the Word. Therefore, a person can’t claim to believe in Jesus Christ and not know His Word. Some have even rejected the teachings of the Bible while simultaneously claiming to be Christians.
Shouldn’t Christians always be honest and straightforward? If someone hasn’t converted yet, we shouldn’t call them Christians. Attending a Sunday gathering doesn’t automatically make someone a Christian, and neither does water baptism if there’s no genuine conversion.
In their efforts to fill up Sunday gatherings, Christians have been misguided in their approach to growing the body of believers. Instead of sharing the Scripture and teaching people the truth first, they’ve prioritized bringing people to join Sunday gatherings. Many times without clear confirmations, they rush them into baptism without ensuring that they’ve truly converted to Christ Jesus and His Word.
True Christianity requires a deep understanding of the Word of God. We should not rush people into baptism or joining a Sunday gathering but rather share the Scripture with them until they demonstrate full submission to Jesus Christ and His Word.
In reality, as I have discussed in my other blog “Sunday Cliché”, modern Christianity has blended together Christians and nominal Christians. Aren’t you then dangerously exposing new Christians to “wolves in sheep’s clothing”?
Conversion into Christianity is a process. It is not like buying somebody a ticket and sending the person for a ride. Recognize that time is essential for studying the Scripture so that we can fully comprehend God’s Word and grow in our faith. Patiently guide a person to Christ Jesus. If you’re not equipped to teach, then you ought to learn first the fundamentals of the faith. The apostle Paul told Timothy, “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also (2Ti 2:1-2)”. That, and that alone, is the true essence of discipleship.
Ultimately, the best way to determine if someone is a Christian is by observing how they respond to life’s challenges and temptations. If they demonstrate a genuine commitment to Christ and His Word, then they are truly a Christian. As the saying goes, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.”
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 Jews therefore marveled, saying, “How is it that this man [Jesus Christ] has learning, when He has never studied?” So Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on My own authority. The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of Him who sent Him is true, and in Him there is no falsehood.”
So, how do we know that we are learning from Jesus Christ, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, not from men? The teaching should always be in sync with the Scripture. Unlike today, a lot of Christian doctrines are misaligned, opposing each other.
Example: Christians teach that at the moment of death, believers would go to heaven, and yet they also say Jesus has yet to return. However, Jesus, in John 14:6, said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Christ beforehand also said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, WOULD I HAVE TOLD YOU THAT I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU? AND IF I GO AND PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, I WILL COME AGAIN AND WILL TAKE YOU TO MYSELF, THAT WHERE I AM YOU MAY BE ALSO.” (John 14:1-3)
We all know forty days after Jesus’ resurrection [Acts 1:3], He ascended to the Father, thereby fulfilling His promise to prepare and return to take the believers to be with Him in heaven. So, if the Christian teaching today is correct, and He has yet to return, then no one can go to the Father at the moment because Jesus promised and made clear He alone is the way to the Father, and He would return to take the believers to heaven. In other words, before Jesus’ return, heaven should be off-limits to us.
That truth is reinforced by Hebrews 9:28: “So also Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, WILL APPEAR A SECOND TIME, NOT TO BEAR SIN, BUT TO BRING SALVATION TO THOSE WHO ARE WAITING FOR HIM.”
Christians today aren’t the only ones waiting for Christ’s return. The contemporaries of Paul and Peter, Christians before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, were waiting as well. See passages below.
“so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1Co 1:7)
“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Php 3:20)
“For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1Th 1:8-10)
Paul and his generation of Christians were waiting for Christ’s return. Peter made clear however, the return of Christ Jesus and His salvation would be consummated in his generation. See 1Peter 1:10-13.
“CONCERNING THIS SALVATION, the prophets [OT prophets] who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours [Peter’s contemporary Christians] searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when He [God] predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. IT WAS REVEALED TO THEM THAT THEY WERE SERVING NOT THEMSELVES [OT prophets] BUT YOU [Peter’s contemporary Christians], in the things that have now been announced to you [Peter’s contemporaries] through those who preached the good news to you [Peter’s contemporaries] by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look. THEREFORE, PREPARING YOUR [Peter’s contemporary Christians] MINDS FOR ACTION, AND BEING SOBER-MINDED, SET YOUR HOPE [Peter’s contemporary Christians] FULLY ON THE GRACE THAT WILL BE BROUGHT TO YOU [Peter’s contemporary Christians] AT THE REVELATION [or appearing] OF JESUS CHRIST.”
Peter, therefore rightly reiterated Jesus’ Word and promise. See Matthew 16:28. “Truly, I say to you [Peter and his fellow apostles], there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
Unless perhaps, the then apostles of Christ are still alive today – similar to the conspiracy theory about Elvis Presley being alive still and in hiding somewhere 😝.
If somebody promised to meet you at a specific time then stood you up, what do you make of that person? Trustworthy or not? Oh, maybe you would say perhaps he has a legitimate reason for being remiss of his word? But that can’t be true with Christ Jesus. The promised great prophet of Deuteronomy 18:15-22; Acts 3:22-23; Acts 7:37.
Do you understand the implications of such teaching? Asserting that Jesus Christ is yet to come; contrary to the claim of the Scripture. It opposes the very Word and promise of Christ Jesus. Therefore, futurist preachers today are actually – perhaps unknowingly but still by inference – saying Jesus failed in His Word and promise. The renowned, actually it should be infamous, C.S. Lewis said perhaps Jesus was hallucinating so He said those words to His apostles. Lewis even said, “Matthew 24:34 is the most embarrassing verse in the Bible” because Jesus promised to return to the generation of His apostles, but He did not. [https://www.behindthegospels.com/p/surprised-by-cs-lewis-the-most-embarrassing]
I don’t know about most Christians, but I would always adhere to Jesus Christ and His infallible words. It cannot be that Christ remised on His Word. Rather, if the Bible says one thing and the contemporary teaching opposes it, the Bible being infallible would mean it is always right. It’s our Christian duty to study the Bible until we have reconciled with God’s Word, discerning the truth. If modern Christian teaching does not stand up to the scrutiny of Scripture, then it ought to be disputed and corrected – even if it would invite attacks from critics because they insist on their truth.
Let me forewarn everyone though, back in the garden of Eden and with the temptation of Jesus Christ, it was the devil who had twisted God’s Word. No wonder, therefore, the unbelieving Jews opposed Christ’s Words, so Jesus refers to them as children of the devil (John 8:44-45). Certainly, we would not want to be in opposition to God’s Word.
In conclusion, Scripture said,
“He [Jesus Christ] was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times [last days] for the sake of you [Peter’s immediate audience or readers] who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God. 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;for “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever.”And this word is the good news that was preached to you.” (1Pe 1:20-25)
Scripture made clear, that no one was mysteriously born again, but by the unchanging imperishable Word of God. Would you rather trust in man’s teachings or only the Word of God? Seek and discern the source of your learnings. Was it from man’s imagination or the diligent and careful study of God’s Word? Truthful teaching of God’s Word should always adhere to, not oppose, clear and straightforward teachings of the Scripture.
Jesus Christ said, “The Spirit is the one who gives life. The flesh doesn’t help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.” (John 6:63)
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!
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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Unlearning Tradition, Relearning Scripture 