Reflecting on God’s desire for us who claim to follow Jesus Christ, let us consider the story of Cain and Abel as a case study. Why was Abel’s offering acceptable to God, while Cain’s was not?
Abel’s offering pleased God because it reflected a heart that honored Him first. In Genesis 4:3-7, we see that Abel offered the firstborn of his flock, signifying that he gave first to God. Cain, on the other hand, “in the course of time” offered some of the produce of the ground, but not the first fruits, indicating a lack of priority or wholehearted devotion.
Some interpret Abel’s offering as acceptable because it resembled the later Mosaic Law requirement to offer the fat portions to the Lord (Leviticus 3:16). However, the Law was established long after Cain and Abel, so their actions were not legally obligatory. Instead, God’s demand for the fat portions of all animal offerings reflected Abel’s genuine heart of giving to God first, not the other way around.
See God’s response to Cain—“If you do well, will you not be accepted?”—reveals that the real issue was the heart and attitude behind the offering. The act of giving must come from a place of surrender and prioritizing God above all.
This principle is echoed throughout Scripture. The story of Elijah and the widow shows the same heart condition: the widow gave the first portion of her last meal to God’s servant, demonstrating trust and putting God first. As a result, she and her son were sustained throughout the famine. (1 Kings 17:8-16)
Similarly, Paul commended the Macedonians in 2 Corinthians 8:1-6 because they gave themselves first to the Lord before giving their material support, even in extreme poverty. Their offering was accepted because it flowed from a surrendered heart.
The lesson is clear: God delights in offerings given with a heart that honors Him first. Gifts that are leftovers or given without full surrender do not please Him. True worship and acceptable giving are rooted in putting God above all else, both in life, in our ministry for God, and in offerings.
Consequently, Paul quoted Jesus saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35),” a statement Jesus spoke before sending out His disciples. For us who serve the Lord Jesus Christ, this means we are called to share the Gospel without seeking payment. Yet, in the same context, the Lord also said, “The laborer deserves his food.” (Matthew 10:8-10) This reminds us that those who labor in the Word of God, as well as those who support them, should do so willingly and freely, without compulsion. In doing this, we reflect the heart of Abel, who offered the first and best of what he had to God, giving with a heart of faith and devotion.
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!
I’ve come to realize that many pastors are hesitant to discuss money because they’ve been taught and told not to speak on the topic. However, Paul addressed this issue on several occasions. Are pastors inferior to an apostle? Paul made it clear in Ephesians that both are mandated by Christ Jesus for His ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-14) While I understand that some people assume the role of a pastor but lack the necessary skills or love for God’s ministry. Some view the ministry not as a calling but as a profession, even worse, as an opportunity to gain wealth. (1 Timothy 6:3-5)
No wonder Paul said, “For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 2:17) This article applies only to the latter group: people who are genuinely committed to doing God’s work.
Here’s the silent truth: Pastors are even ridiculed when people discover that someone has been supporting them, despite the clear biblical teaching that it’s the right of the pastor to receive support.
For example, Paul said, “In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the Gospel should get their living by the Gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:14) It’s the right of pastors to receive their living from the Gospel, because it’s commanded by Jesus Christ (Luke 10:2-8).
Paul also said, “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.” (Galatians 6:6) This clearly teaches that the giving and receiving of ministry support is directly between the teacher and the learner.
Furthermore, Jesus instructed His disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few. Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road. Whenever you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ If a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house.” (Luke 10:2-7)
Despite these clear teachings, God’s workers often face little support and are subjected to ridicule and accusations of wrongdoing. Paul himself expressed his frustration, stating, “Did I commit a sin in humbling myself so that you might be exalted? Because I preached God’s Gospel to you without charge? I robbed other churches by accepting support from them in order to serve you. And when I was with you and in need, I did not burden anyone. The brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my need. So I refrained and will refrain from burdening you in any way.” (2 Corinthians 11:7-9)
The Corinthian church was biblically obligated to actively support Paul’s ministry in their midst. Scripture emphasizes the responsibility of believers to help God’s workers, declaring, “Therefore, we ought to support God’s workers like these, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” (3 John 1:8)
Despite this clear mandate, Paul did not receive the support that was rightfully due him from the Corinthians. Instead, he endured their criticisms. In response, he wrote:
“I am here for the third time, ready to come to you. I will not be a burden because I seek not what is yours but you. Children are not obligated to save for their parents, but parents for their children. I will gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less? But since I did not burden you, you say, I was crafty and got the better of you by deceit.” (2 Corinthians 12:14‑16)
Paul’s words reveal his profound love for the Corinthians and his willingness to sacrifice for their spiritual growth, even without receiving the support that was biblically warranted. This passage serves as a reminder to recognize, honor, and assist those who faithfully labor in God’s work, fulfilling the partnership that Scripture envisions between God’s servants and His people.
God designed it that way. Both God’s workers and Christians who support them are considered workers in the Gospel. (3 John 1:8) God intended it to be a partnership. Therefore, Paul expressed his gratitude to the Philippians, saying, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all, making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now.” (Philippians 1:3-5) The Macedonians and the Philippians are essentially the same people. Paul revealed that they are his sole supporters, stating, “And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.” (Philippians 4:15)
John teaches that those who prevent people from directly supporting God’s workers are considered evildoers. (3 John 1:9-11)
Demetrius, who welcomes and supports God’s workers, contrasts sharply with Diotrephes, who refuses and hinders others from doing the same. It is crucial to discern who you listen to and follow.
Shame on you, Diotrephes! You are wrongfully accusing God’s workers of wrongdoing by denying them support and hindering others from doing so. Let’s not be deceived by the cunning and deceitful reasoning of some people who exploit your ignorance of Bible teachings. Regrettably, some have accused God’s workers of wrongdoing while neglecting accountability in their own collections of donations from God’s people.
I am simply stating the truth. I have received an unusual call from God. My mission is to study the Bible, explain its teachings clearly and without restraint, and share them with others. God’s people should not be offended by God’s Word. If you have any doubts, I encourage or even challenge you to study the Bible thoroughly. Discover for yourself the authentic teachings of the Scriptures.
P.S. This is a follow through to my previous posting “Supporting Christian Workers: A Biblical Approach”
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!
Recently, I was asked how we can support Christian workers, which might have been prompted by a Facebook post I shared. Scripture provides numerous teachings on this matter, but I will focus on one passage to highlight the principle clearly.
In 3 John 1:1-14, the apostle John commends Gaius for his faithfulness and generosity towards traveling brothers serving in Christ’s name. Gaius’s actions show that he not only walks in the truth but also honors God’s work by helping those who proclaim it.
Key Principles from the Passage
1. Supporting Christian Workers is Commended
John praises Gaius for showing love and hospitality to Christian workers, even though they were strangers. He notes that sending them off “in a manner worthy of God” is a faithful act, making believers fellow workers in the truth.
The same principle has been endorsed by Paul: “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The laborer deserves his wages.’” (1 Timothy 5:17-18)
The first quotation has been used by Paul in reference to support for God’s workers (1 Corinthians 9:9, 14). The latter is quoted from Jesus Christ. When He sent out His disciples, He called on them to be faithful to the Gospel and trust God’s people for their provision. (Luke 10:2-9)
2. Christian Workers Depend on Believers’ Support
These workers “have gone out for the sake of Jesus’ name, accepting nothing from unbelievers,” meaning the responsibility of support falls on the church and fellow Christians.
3. Warning Against Hindering Support
John rebukes Diotrephes for his pride, refusal to welcome Christian workers, and for stopping others from supporting them. Scripture warns that imitating such behaviour is evil.
4. Imitate Good, Not Evil
Believers are encouraged to follow the example of Gaius and Demetrius, who have good testimonies, and avoid the divisive behaviour of Diotrephes.
Applying the Principles Today
Scripture encourages us to directly support Christian workers—missionaries, pastors, or evangelists. While many now rely on mission organisations to channel support, the biblical model emphasizes personal participation and partnership in the Gospel.
Paul teaches, “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)
Christian giving is a personal decision and choice. By helping those who labor for Christ, we become co-workers in spreading the truth and experience the joy of participating in God’s mission. (3 John 1:5-8)
Important Insights on Giving
In the Bible, support was always direct—given straight to God’s workers. Modern practice often routes help through organizations or committees, which can delay or even withhold rightful support. In the name of accountability, this system sometimes creates the opposite effect: funds are mismanaged or stalled. Returning to the biblical model of direct giving would be simpler and more faithful.
Biblical Basis for Direct Support
Philippians 4:15‑16 – The Philippians sent aid directly to Paul, even multiple times.
Galatians 6:6 – Believers are called to share all good things directly with their instructors.
1 Timothy 5:17‑18 – Elders who teach are worthy of financial honour, just as labourers deserve wages.
Furthermore, Jesus teaches that giving should be discreet (Matthew 6:1‑4), done to please God rather than to be seen by others.
A Matter of Conscience
In the end, giving should follow God’s leading and the guidance of your conscience. It is not dependent on the approval of committees or organisations. Some Christians may prefer the modern method of routed support; it is their responsibility and choice. But it is wrong to impose such rules on those who wish to follow the biblical model. One of the worst things a Christian can do is to try to play God in the lives of others.
Supporting Christian workers directly is both a responsibility and a blessing, making us true co-laborers in God’s mission.
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!
Christians have become overly focused on constructing buildings they call churches. Yet a building without believers is nothing more than a structure—a gathering place at best. As a song says, “A house is not a home when there’s no one there.” Likewise, a building, no matter how grand, is not the church if God’s people are absent.
Before the Reformation, the Roman Catholic Church aimed to construct the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. However, lacking sufficient resources, they introduced the doctrine of indulgence to trick people into donating money. In today’s world, the same strategy may be employed to fund and execute building projects by simply calling them the church.
This fixation on building projects may be influenced by Western trends that many imitate without careful consideration. Some may have thought it’s good for personal legacy. However, these developments often lead to resentment in neighborhoods, as they generate traffic and inconvenience, effectively becoming obstacles to the Gospel itself. However, the mission of God’s people is clear: to spread the Gospel to the world, not to confine it within walls.
The coming of Jesus Christ and the rapid spread of the Gospel during the Roman Empire were no mere coincidences. The Pax Romana established a period of relative peace, while the vast network of Roman roads provided safe and efficient travel. These conditions created a literal and figurative highway for the message of Christ to reach distant lands with remarkable speed.
In contrast, modern Christianity often faces internal obstacles. Institutionalized churches, once intended to safeguard and organize the faith, can sometimes become barriers to the unrestrained sharing of the Gospel. Bureaucracy, divisions, and rigid structures may hold back the very mission they were meant to support. In this light, one might wonder: has modern Christianity, through its own systems, become its greatest hindrance?
Some interpret Hebrews 10:25 as a directive to gather regularly in sanctuaries or buildings. However, the phrase “meet together” appears only twice in the New Testament—Hebrews 10:25 and 2 Thessalonians 2:1—and should be understood as referring to God’s promise to regather Israel, as also seen in Romans 11:25-27. A careful reading of Romans indicates that this regathering was being fulfilled during Paul’s own lifetime.
Paul writes:
“I ask, then, has God rejected His people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? ‘Lord, they have killed Your prophets, they have demolished Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.’ But what is God’s reply to him? ‘I have kept for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.’ So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace.” (Romans 11:1-5)
Here, the “present time” refers to Paul’s own era—the final days of Old Covenant Israel—where a remnant, saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, was preserved. Paul himself was an example of the remnant chosen by grace (Romans 11:1-5). He makes it clear that he is speaking of Old Covenant Israel, as he also notes in Romans 9:27: “And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: ‘Though the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved.’”
If there are any doubts about the expiration of the Old Covenant, one only needs to look at Hebrews 8:13. It declares, “In speaking of a new covenant, God makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.” Furthermore, Hebrews 9 highlights the Jewish temple, the physical symbol of the Old Covenant, which no longer stands today.
Thus, the call to “meet together” is biblically and historically tied to God’s regathering of Israel rather than a universal command for modern believers to hold scheduled gatherings in sanctuaries or buildings.
The true church is not a building but the community of believers who confess Christ and live in faith. Jesus described the kingdom of heaven as a net gathering fish of every kind (Matthew 13:47-49): the Gospel is the net, the world is the sea, and the church—the true church—are the good fish gathered into God’s kingdom.
The early church wholeheartedly devoted itself to the apostles’ teachings (Acts 2:42), which are now reflected in the New Testament Scriptures, and to fellowship with one another. They met daily, not just for the weekly gatherings we often see today, but in the temple courts and later in homes (Acts 5:42; 12:12; Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 16:19; Colossians 4:15; Philemon 1:2). Unlike the modern practice of gathering in large buildings open to all, with sufficient parking and amenities, the early Christians shared life together in intimate home settings. This approach made it easier to distinguish genuine believers from those who were merely nominal. In this context, new believers were intentionally introduced to Christian groups, much like Barnabas personally connected Paul to the church (Acts 9:26-27). This created a clear sense of accountability and belonging.
Consequently, Paul’s instruction that the church must be purified was doable (1 Corinthians 5:7-13), applying discipline to those claiming to be brothers yet living in sin. Because everyone is known to each other, Jesus Himself instructs a step-by-step approach to correction (Matthew 18:15-17), which ultimately leads to purging unrepentant sin from the church. A real church is marked not by walls but by lives aligned with God’s Word.
Resources should therefore be directed toward spreading the Gospel, training believers (2 Timothy 2:2), and supporting faithful workers (3 John 5-8)—rather than pouring funds into concrete and mortar. Jesus declared that He would build His church on the rock of Peter’s confession (Matthew 16:18). Peter confessed: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16).” Scripture states, “therefore thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am the One who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a Stone, a tested Stone, a precious Cornerstone, of a sure foundation: Whoever believes will not be in haste.’” (Isaiah 28:16)
Scripture clearly teaches that Christ is the “Rock” (1 Corinthians 10:4), the firm foundation and cornerstone of Zion, which is His church (Hebrews 12:22-24). With Christ Jesus as its head, the church is described as the “true temple” (John 2:19-22; Colossians 1:18). Paul reminds believers: “Do you not know that you (i.e. the church) are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Further study of the following passages—1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Peter 2:4-6—reveals that the church is indeed God’s spiritual temple. Therefore, placing great emphasis on physical buildings misrepresents God’s word and the true nature of His church.
Instead of spending hundreds of millions, even billions, of pesos, why not consider renting? Some individuals generously donate, so why not construct a modest gathering place instead of large buildings with only a few attendees? Additionally, some may even be willing to lend out spaces for meetups and gatherings focused on reading and studying God’s word. As Paul instructed Timothy, “Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:13)
God’s workers should be honored (Hebrews 13:7), equipped (2 Timothy 2:15), and sent into the harvest where it truly lies—outside the four walls, in marketplaces, homes, daily encounters, and we don’t need to go far; our very neighborhood (Matthew 9:37-38). The church is God’s people, not the structures we maintain. Let’s stop wasting resources on buildings and instead fully commit to the work Christ commanded: proclaiming the Gospel and building His kingdom through lives, not bricks.
The church is, at its core, an assembly, though it does not always reflect the modern notion of a congregation. According to Scripture, it is the spiritual gathering of the firstborn, whose names are inscribed in heaven (Hebrews 12:22–24). This sacred assembly may appear as a local fellowship of believers or as individuals scattered across various regions, each faithfully fulfilling their service to God in their own context. For instance, Aquila and Priscilla, after being expelled from Rome, settled in Corinth (Acts 18:1-2). They contributed to God’s ministry by carefully explaining the Gospel to Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). Even while distant from Paul, they remained his fellow workers in Christ Jesus (Romans 16:3).
Paul reminds us that the church is composed of members with different gifts. As Ephesians 4:11 states, God appoints some to be pastors, some to be evangelists, and others to be teachers. While a single individual may at times perform the tasks of all three, these are the only offices that currently remain.
The New Testament defines apostles as direct witnesses of Christ—His life, teachings, death, resurrection, and ascension (1 Corinthians 9:1). Paul declared that he was the last of the apostles, uniquely chosen (1 Corinthians 15:8-9). His calling as the apostle to the Gentiles carried great responsibility (Romans 11:13; Acts 9:15-16). Paul’s extensive travels, numerous hardships, and eventual arrival in Rome—then viewed as the edge of the known world—highlight complete fulfillment of Acts 1:8. It is thus understandable that he authored most of the New Testament writings.
Furthermore, there is no scriptural basis proving that Peter ever ministered in Rome. The mention of “Babylon” in 1 Peter 5:13 is often misinterpreted as Rome, yet Revelation 17:5-6, 17:18, and 11:8 identify “Babylon the Great” as Old Covenant Jerusalem—the city where Jesus was crucified—rather than Rome.
Similarly, there are no prophets today since all divine revelations have been completed in the book of Revelation. As Paul teaches in Romans 12:7-8, some are gifted in serving, others in giving, and some in showing mercy. Each of us is called to faithfully fulfill the role that matches the gift God has given us.
Consequently, if Christians mistakenly view the church primarily as physical spaces—such as buildings, sanctuaries, and halls—they end up striving to fill every empty seat, even gathering those who are unconverted, like guests without a wedding garment— that is, faith in the righteousness of Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:17-20; 21:28-32; Romans 1:16-17; 3:21-26; 5:17; 13:14; Galatians 3:27-29; Ephesians 4:21-24). This is why Scripture declares, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:9-14)
Reflect on the Scriptures and be discerning. Do not simply follow others without understanding, for Jesus said, “If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” (Matthew 15:14) Let us not imitate the Pharisees, who forsook God’s Word to cling to the traditions of men. (Mark 7:8)
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
Jesus once said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. For He causes His sun to rise on both the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.” (Matthew 5:43-45)
This challenges us to think deeply: does material abundance automatically mean we are blessed by God? If that were so, it would suggest that many wealthy but ungodly individuals are more favored than the faithful who live humbly. Yet Jesus reminds us that God’s providential grace is given to all, regardless of faith (Psalms 145:9; Acts 14:17).
It is common for Christians to fall into the trap of equating wealth with divine favor, forgetting that both abundance and scarcity are tests of our faith. The greater question is this: in times of plenty or in want, will we continue to praise God and live in obedience to Him?
Jesus often warned of the spiritual dangers of riches. Luke recounts the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:13–21), and all three Synoptic Gospels tell of the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-24; Mark 10:17-23; Luke 18:18-25). When asked to surrender his possessions and follow Christ, the young man went away sorrowful. This led Jesus to declare, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:23)
Many contemporary preachers equate wealth with divine favor, but Proverbs 10:22 reminds us that “the blessing of the LORD makes rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” True blessing lies not in amassing possessions but in finding contentment in God’s daily provision and being ready to share whenever He calls. This truth is evident in Jesus’ warning to the man obsessed with building larger storehouses for his wealth: “Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” He concluded, “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:20-21) On the other hand, Jesus praised the poor widow who gave two copper coins in contrast to the wealthy who contributed large sums of money, saying, “This poor widow has given more than everyone else. Because they all gave from abundance, but she, out of poverty, has given everything she had, all she had to live one day.” (Mark 12:41-44)
Paul, applying the teachings of Jesus, contrasted the wealthy Corinthians with the impoverished yet generous Macedonian believers. Despite their poverty, the Macedonians displayed the heart and teachings of Christ through remarkable generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1–6). Their giving was voluntary, sacrificial, and inspired by deep devotion to God—an “act of grace” (2 Corinthians 8:6).
Likewise, Paul praised the Philippians for their gifts, expressing the “act of grace” in another way: “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). It is called an act of grace because everything we have comes from God, and our ability to give flows from His grace.
In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus confirmed this truth when He told the faithful who gave to those in need, “As you did it to one of the least of these brothers, you did it to Me” (v.40). Conversely, those who withheld care, generosity, and compassion faced the opposite judgment (vv.41–46). True generosity reflects God’s grace working in our hearts.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the greatness of God? He alone is the source of everything good, while we are simply recipients, entrusted with the privilege to care, to share, and to give. Yet, our acts of grace are credited to us. As Philippians 4:17 shows, Paul expressed his gratitude by saying, “Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.” It is no wonder Paul recalled the teachings of Jesus and said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Matthew 10:8; Matthew 25:34-40; Luke 14:12-14; 2 Corinthians 9:6-12; Philippians 4:17-20; Hebrews 13:16). A truth quite the opposite of what many believe, isn’t it?
Christians, we are called to live by faith. James reinforces that faith without works is dead (James 2:14–20). Authentic faith expresses itself in action—serving others, meeting needs, and living out love. Salvation comes through faith, but genuine faith is proven in a daily walk of obedience.
Paul’s words in Philippians 2:12–13 remind us that faith is not a single moment but an ongoing journey of surrender and obedience to God. He calls on us believers to “work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling,” not to earn salvation, but to live in a way that reflects the gift we have received. Our life’s testimony—through seasons of joy or struggle—reveals our trust in His perfect will. As the Gospel transforms us, God Himself works in our hearts, shaping our desires and guiding our actions for His glory. In response, we are to let His salvation manifest in how we live, bringing forth good works as the fruit of our faith.
This reflection encourages us to pause and reflect on what truly constitutes as blessings. It prompts us to assess how our faith is manifested in our daily lives. In fact, even in our ministry and sharing of the Gospel, as stated in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
The idea of “once saved, always saved” stems from misinterpretations of selected Bible verses by some Christians. These passages seem to imply that God predestines certain individuals for salvation. Yet, a closer and more comprehensive reading of Scripture shows that this belief is inaccurate. The Bible does not universally call all believers the elect; rather, it speaks to a specific generation—the Jews who lived during Jesus’ ministry, the generation that rejected Him and contributed to His crucifixion.
Paul clarified this in Romans 11:1-6, where he spoke of a “remnant chosen by grace”:
> “I ask, then, has God rejected His people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? ‘Lord, they have killed Your prophets, they have demolished Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.’ But what is God’s reply to him? ‘I have kept for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.’ So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.”
Jesus expressed the same principle in several passages:
John 6:38-40 – “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me… that I should lose nothing of all that He has given Me, but raise it up on the last day.”
John 6:44 – “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.”
John 6:65 – “This is why I told you that no one can come to Me unless it is granted him by the Father.”
These verses affirm that salvation is achieved not by human effort or desire, but by God’s grace through faith in Christ. The Gospel is the power by which God calls people to faith—not an exclusive key held only for a select group, as extreme interpretations of “election” suggest.
The teaching that God chooses some for salvation and rejects others can breed spiritual arrogance. It is presumptuous to claim such privilege, especially when lives labelled as “elect” sometimes fail to reflect Christ’s character.
Paul’s statement in Romans 11:5—“a remnant chosen by grace”—points to the fulfillment of Old Testament promises found in Isaiah 11:11-16 and Jeremiah 31:31-34:
> “In that day the Lord will extend his hand yet a second time to recover the remnant that remains of his people, from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the coastlands of the sea… And there will be a highway from Assyria for the remnant that remains of his people, as there was for Israel when they came up from the land of Egypt.” (Isaiah 11:11-16)
> “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah… I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people… For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
These passages remind us that God’s covenant and salvation are rooted in His grace, not in human assumptions of guaranteed election.
Christians, live your lives in a way that truly honours Jesus. Do not depend on an empty confession of faith in Him. Genuine Christianity requires a transformed life. One is either a Christian or not; there is no middle ground. May we find inspiration in Paul’s declaration:
> “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6-8)
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
This posting is bound to stir controversy. However, as we have been guided by God’s Word and come to the realization that we may have been mistaken in our belief, shaped by long‑standing traditions and practices, having recognized the error, shouldn’t we reconsider our stance?
Only those touched by the Gospel of Jesus Christ possess the fervent boldness to express their faith. However, any heated matter will cool down if not constantly maintained. Our faith in Jesus Christ must be continually challenged to ensure that our passion for Christ remains unwavering. The primary adversary of all Christians is the deceptive wolves in sheep’s clothing.
Have you encountered any of these individuals? The Bible states:
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make My dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Therefore, go out from their midst and be separate from them, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me, says the Lord Almighty.’” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)
In Paul’s context, the unbelievers he mentioned are not those outside the Christian faith. Instead, they are the wolves in sheep’s clothing within the church. A deeper understanding of this point can be gained by reading Paul’s letter, as least beginning at 2 Corinthians 2:17-7:1; 10:1-12:21.
The identity of the true church can become blurred when a venue where Christians gather also includes those who are ungodly or unrepentant. Scripture speaking about the church states:
“Do you not know that Christians are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in His church? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
No wonder, Paul called on the church to “purge the evil from within them” (1 Corinthians 5:13). It raises the question: how can we distinguish who truly belongs to the church? Only God knows who truly belongs to Him (2 Timothy 2:19). Confusion arises when human-made buildings or organizations—formed outside the pattern of Scripture—are still called churches. Jesus said in Matthew 16:18,
“On this Rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”
Paul’s perspective on marriages between believers and unbelievers differs from the stance of much of contemporary Christianity. Rather than opposing such unions outright, he presents them as opportunities for the believing spouse to influence and possibly lead the other towards faith. This idea is captured in 1 Corinthians 7:16: “For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?”
The Rock is Christ Himself (1 Corinthians 10:4), and Peter’s confession—“You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God”—confirms this foundation.
Weekly Sunday gatherings are best understood as occasions for Christians to meet, sometimes accompanied by family and friends who may not yet share their faith, to listen to God’s Word.
The Apostle Paul demonstrated this practice by addressing a variety of audiences: he spoke to people in the marketplace and at the Areopagus in Athens (Acts 17:16-34), taught in the Hall of Tyrannus in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10), and preached in the synagogues of Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-4), Berea (Acts 17:10-12), and Antioch (Acts 13:14-16). None of these locations were ever described as churches.
Instead, Scripture points out that early Christians gathered in their own homes, forming house churches, as seen in Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Colossians 4:15, and Philemon 1:1-2. This does not imply that believers never assembled in larger spaces for fellowship among themselves, but no building was ever called a church in the biblical sense. Jesus Christ, when teaching about matters of the church, said:
“For where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
The essence of the church is not tied to a specific building or location, but to the fellowship of believers who gather in the name of Christ. This truth is affirmed in John 4:21-24, where worship is shown to transcend physical spaces, focusing instead on spirit and truth.
“Believe Me, woman,” Jesus replied, “a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:21-24)
Paul urges Christians to dedicate their lives as a living act of spiritual worship. He instructs believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. Through this transformation, we gain the ability to discern and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)
Christians frequently invoke 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers,” to dissuade marriages between different denominations, like a Roman Catholic and an evangelical Christian. Yet, they seem to overlook the threat posed by wolves in sheep’s clothing among their own congregations. This creates an irony: the very misuse of 2 Corinthians 6:14 pressures believers to marry solely within their circle, even if some within that circle may, in fact, be spiritual pretenders.
I posed this question online: Are Christians allowed to be unequally yoked? Here’s the response:
Christians are not permitted to be unequally yoked, according to the teachings of the Bible. The phrase “unequally yoked” comes from 2 Corinthians 6:14, which advises believers not to form binding partnerships with non-believers. This guidance applies to marriage, close friendships, and business relationships where values and life directions might conflict.
Being yoked together implies moving in the same direction and sharing a purpose. If one partner does not share the same faith, it can lead to spiritual struggles, conflicts in values, and difficulty in walking in God’s will. Therefore, Christians are encouraged to seek relationships that strengthen their faith and align with biblical principles.
I fully agree with the second part of the response. However, it appears excessive to completely avoid business relationships or close friendships with unbelievers. This is easily refuted by Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 5:9-13.
“I wrote you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. I was not including the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business of mine is it to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. ‘Expel the wicked man from among you.’” (1 Corinthians 5:9-13)
Moreover, Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 7 offer a different perspective on marriage. The principle of “garbage in, garbage out” is evident in the AI’s response. We must exercise caution and discernment with information from the internet.
Christianity generally holds that 2 Corinthians 6:14 applies to marriage. However, its intended context and application are for the church, similar to Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 5:9-13.
Here are the key points on marriage from Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:
“To the rest I say (I, not the Lord) that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her. If any woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she should not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is made holy because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy because of her husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.” (1Co 7:12-17)
It’s easy to select, quote verses, and make judgments. However, every verse in Scripture has its context, and each context addresses a specific concern. Let’s avoid misinterpretation and misapplication of God’s Word.
Let us share our faith with our unbelieving loved ones, including those with unbelieving partners. We should share our faith without enforcing it. Faith is best demonstrated through our actions and lifestyle.
Let me repeat Paul’s message:
“For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.” (1Co 7:16-17)
Apparently, the problem isn’t having an unbelieving partner, but rather when the believing person compromises their faith.Instead of living a life of faith to influence their unbelieving partners, they submit to their ways. This is where the issue lies.
Of course, the ideal marriages should be between fellow believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. However, it’s also important to recognize that we only truly get to know the person we’ve married when we’ve lived together under one roof. In such a scenario, the ideal setting may not always be as perfect as we imagine. So, perhaps there goes Paul’s teaching for all churches. (1 Corinthians 7)
Important to note, however, was Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:15. He emphasized, “But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases, the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.” This teaching reminds Christians not to compromise their faith within a marriage with an unbeliever. If the unbelieving spouse refuses to accept or live peacefully with your faith, you are called to let them go, so that you may live in the peace God intends and freely practice your faith.
Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 7:17 is striking: he emphasises that his instructions are not mere suggestions, but a rule for all the churches. This shows the weight and authority of his words, meant to guide the believers collectively, not just optional advice for individual interpretation.
In my 26 years of being a Christian, I’ve encountered numerous non-Christians who live according to some teachings of Jesus. For instance, they follow Jesus’ teachings,
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
They are aware of what is harmful to them and refrain from doing it to others, and vice versa. They do what is good to them to others. On the other hand, I’ve also come across a significant number of professing Christians who are actually devilish and engage in actions contrary to the Bible. Some of these actions are openly displayed, while others are kept secret or done in the dark. In such cases, it becomes challenging to discern who is truly far from God’s kingdom.
The Bible told of a story of a man who approached Jesus with a question. After Jesus responded, another person remarked,
“To love God with all your heart, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself, is far greater than all the sacrifices and offerings.”
Jesus then stated, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34) This story is found in Mark 12:28-34. The only missing element was a confession of faith in Jesus Christ.
Let me be clear: Salvation is not something that can be passed on to others. Not even to our partners in life, sons or daughters. It is a personal journey that involves a sincere confession of faith in Christ Jesus. This confession acknowledges that without Jesus, no one can earn eternal life. A true confession of faith in Jesus Christ demands a profound transformation in one’s believes, character and values.
The responsibility of living for Jesus rests on us who believe, and we are tasked not only to live our faith but teach it to our husbands or wives, and most especially to our children. Now, after faithfully doing our Christian duty, the rest is upon God’s grace. Paul states,
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (1Co 3:6-7)
Christians are called to live in accordance with the teachings of the Bible, allowing God’s Word to shape and transform their lives for His glory. Regarding marriage, Paul recognized its inherent complexities. In 1 Corinthians 7:12, he begins with, “To the rest I say (I, not the Lord),” expressing pastoral counsel that carefully considers the nuances of the situation. This phrasing reflects his unique role as a divinely inspired writer of Scripture, as affirmed in 2 Peter 1:20-21. In contrast, modern pastors, though able to offer wise guidance, cannot claim the same level of authority as Paul did in his inspired writings.
Servants of God’s Word, we are called to present ourselves as approved before Him: diligent workers, unashamed, and rightly handling the Word of truth, as written in 2 Timothy 2:15. This command was given to Timothy and speaks to us today, we who profess to be called by Jesus to teach and share His Word. As we seek to guide others, let us avoid unnecessary complications. In matters of marriage, let us faithfully lean on God’s instructions found in 1 Corinthians 7, using His Word as our clear and unwavering guide.
May this article shed light on the topic of mixed marriages. Pray, read the Bible, and always be guided by Scripture. May the grace of God be upon everyone who reads this article.
P.S. I’m open to reconsider my stance if someone can provide a more effective teaching on this subject. However, these are the teachings I’ve encountered in Scripture.
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share this article freely, for you freely receive. Take note, underlines and highlights are clickable links for definitions or Bible references. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessings!
No, that is not correct. The recent earthquakes are not connected to Christ’s return. Let us look into Scripture to see where such an idea might have originated. The Bible says:
“Jesus left the temple and was going away when His disciples came to show Him the temple buildings. But He said to them, ‘Do you see all of these? Truly, I tell you, not one stone here will remain on another; every one will be thrown down.’ Later, as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples approached Him privately and asked, ‘Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your comingand of the end of the age?’” (Matthew 24:1-3)
Let us explore the question: When will the temple be destroyed? What will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age? These seemingly three distinct questions collectively encapsulate a single, overarching inquiry.
Take note, the disciples sought the sign of Jesus’ coming because of His prediction of the temple’s destruction. They were well aware of the connection between the desolation of the temple and the two other events – the coming of Jesus and the end of the age. Jesus first warned them about the deceptive nature of false prophets. He cautioned them:
“Be on guard against false prophets. Many will come in My name, claiming to be the Christ, and they will lead many astray.” (Matthew 24:4-5)
Let’s quickly address the concept of “end of the age.” The Bible states:
“On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe” (Hebrews 1:1-2).
Here’s the proof that God is going to create a new people, see Isaiah 65:17-19:
“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness. I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in My people; no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping and the cry of distress.”
In the Gospel of Luke, during the Last Supper or the Passover meal, the Bible states:
“And Jesus took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples, saying, ‘This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.’ And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.’” (Luke 22:19-20)
Here is the essence of Christ’s declaration of the New Covenant. Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 states:
“From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh (i.e., circumcision or Old Covenant). 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.”
Back to Christ’s warning against deceptive false prophets (Matthew 24:4-5). As students of the Bible, we should have noticed Jesus’ repeated warning to His disciples on this matter in Matthew 24. Jesus cautions:
“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand. So, if they say to you, ‘Look, he is in the wilderness,’ do not go out. If they say, ‘Look, he is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it’” (Matthew 24:23-26).
It was undoubtedly of utmost importance for Jesus to reiterate this warning three times, as seen for the first time in Matthew 24:4-5. But why did He do so?
Let’s take a look at Jesus’ declaration, both to the Pharisees and to His disciple on the same reference “look, here it is! or there!”
“Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways THAT CAN BE OBSERVED, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” And Jesus said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. And they will say to you, ‘Look, there!’ or ‘Look, here!’ Do not go out or follow them. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His day. But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.” (Luke 17:20-25)
Contrary to popular belief, Jesus wasn’t implying that His coming would be swift and easily noticeable by saying, “For as the lightning flashes and illuminates the sky from one side to the other.” Instead, Christ was quoting Zechariah 9:14:
“Then the LORD will appear over them, and His arrow will be sent forth like lightning; the Lord GOD will sound the trumpet and will march forth in the whirlwinds of the south.”
In essence, Jesus declares that He, the Son of Man, will return in the glory of LORD or YHWH, the covenant name of God. God Almighty – God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Look at Jesus words again: “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. And they will say to you, ‘Look, there!’ or ‘Look, here!’ Do not go out or follow them.” (Luke 17:22-23)
By quoting from Zechariah 9, Jesus assures His disciples that He is the Christ, the King who came to Jerusalem riding a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). This prophecy was fulfilled just days later in Luke 19:28-38. Contrary to contemporary Christian beliefs and teachings, the Bible never taught about two separate comings of Jesus Christ. With the coming of Jesus, the Christ, He was to fulfill Scriptures (Matthew 5:17; Luke 24:44). The Book of Hebrews clearly teaches:
“Just as man is appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment, so also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him” (Hebrews 9:27-28).
It is not two comings, but by His return, He completed His salvation work for all who believe in Him. Christ Jesus’ return would be marked by glory and power, not by a visible appearance, but rather by the event of the temple’s desolation or destruction, which occurred in 70 AD. Contrary to contemporary Christian teachings and beliefs, Acts 1:11 explicitly states that Jesus will return in glory, not in a physical form. Jesus’ coming on the clouds signifies His return in glory, as specifically stated by Paul in 1 Timothy 3:16.
“Indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, and taken up in glory.”
After Christ’s ascension, Jesus manifested Himself to Stephen before his martyrdom for the faith and to Paul during his Damascus encounter. In Acts, Jesus was either seen on the right hand of God (Acts 7:55-56), in glory (Acts 9:3-7), or in the Spirit (Acts 16:7).
Consequently, Jesus cautioned His disciples against believing claims of seeing Him visibly during His coming. Refer to Luke 17:22-24, where He addressed the disciples and said:
“The days are coming when you will yearn to witness one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not be able to see it. They will say to you, ‘Look, there!’ or ‘Look, here!’ Do not go out or follow them. For as the lightning flashes and illuminates the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His day.”
The same message was conveyed by Jesus in Matthew 24:23-27. In verse 27, Jesus seems to have likened His return to the lightning that illuminates the sky from one side to the other (Luke 17:24), but in reality, He quotes Zechariah 9:14:
“Then the LORD will appear over them, and His arrow will go forth like lightning; the Lord GOD will sound the trumpet and will march forth in the whirlwinds of the south”
The declaration in Zechariah 9:14-17 signifies that Jesus would return in glory and power, and His salvation would be completed upon His return, same with Hebrews 9:28.
“So also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him.” (Hebrews 9:28)
There’s no huge gap after all in Christ’s coming, unlike the beliefs of many today. It’s been millennia since Jesus appeared. Instead, Jesus fulfilled Scriptures, as foreshadowed by the Exodus to the Promised Land. Israel spent forty years in Exodus with Moses before Joshua led them in conquering the Promised Land. Luke explained the transfiguration of Jesus, stating:
“Suddenly two men, Moses and Elijah, began talking with Jesus. They appeared in glory and spoke about His departure, which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem” (Luke 9:30-31).
The Greek word translated “departure” literally means “exodus,” so like the Exodus, which was the shadow of things to come. Jesus was in fulfillment of Scriptures; He led His people in exodus to the true Promised Land. The Bible states:
“For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from His.” (Hebrews 4:8-10)
The Promised Land signifies rest. God has welcomed back mankind – that is, those who believe in Jesus Christ – to the Garden of Eden, where God is in communion with man, and man works not to survive, but in the command of God. (Genesis 2:15) Jesus Christ declares:
“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set His seal.” (John 6:27)
Work on how to increase your faith, and always believe in Jesus Christ. For Jesus states:
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:31-33)
Next, in Matthew 24:6-8, Jesus states:
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.”
During the time of the disciples, were there no wars or rumors of wars, nor were there any earthquakes? The Jewish war occurred during the era of Jesus Christ’s disciples. According to the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, a severe earthquake struck Jerusalem during the festival of Pentecost (Shavuot) in 66 AD, just before the outbreak of the Jewish-Roman War. Josephus also recorded the occurrence of famine during that period.
Furthermore, the decades preceding the 70 AD destruction of Jerusalem and the temple were marked by a series of geological upheavals throughout the Roman Empire. Although not confined to Jerusalem, earthquakes devastated cities in Crete, Smyrna, Miletus, Campania, and the renowned 63 AD earthquake that obliterated Pompeii. These events were widely interpreted by early followers as forewarnings of the city’s impending downfall.
Continuing on, in Matthew 24:9-15, Jesus next states:
“Then they will deliver you (i.e., the disciples) up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
The Book of Acts chronicles the spread of the Gospel. It begins in Jerusalem (Acts 2-7), extends to all Judea and Samaria (Acts 8), and ultimately reaches the ends of the earth (Acts 11:19-28:31). Paul was in Rome at the conclusion of Luke’s narration in Acts. As the capital of the Roman Empire, Rome represented the culmination of the then-known Jewish world, fulfilling Acts 1:8. Jesus prophesied to His apostles:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Jesus finally revealed the sign of His coming, saying:
“So, when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those in Judea flee to the mountains. Those on the housetop should not descend to take what is in their house, and those in the field should not turn back to retrieve their cloaks. Alas, women who are pregnant and those who are nursing infants during those days! Pray that your flight may not occur in winter or on a Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has never been experienced since the beginning of the world and will never be again. If those days had not been shortened, no human being would be saved. However, for the sake of the elect, those days will be shortened.” (Matthew 24:15-22)
The destruction of the temple was the sign of Jesus’ coming, as mentioned in Daniel’s prophecies (Daniel 8:13, 9:26-27, and 12:11-13). Anyone still skeptical that Jesus in Matthew 24:15 spoke of the temple’s desolation should simply refer to Luke’s narration on the same event.
“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it, for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress upon the earth and wrath against this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” (Luke 21:20-24)
Interestingly, many people overlooked the fact that Jesus quoted Daniel 12:1 in Matthew 24:21, stating:
“For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be.”
Moreover, it’s crucial to note that Daniel 12:3 states:
“And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.”
Jesus quoted this verse when He spoke about the kingdom of heaven. Refer to Matthew 13:43. Let us learn from Christ’s teaching on Daniel 12:3 or Matthew 13:43, the context for Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 13:44-52.
“Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear (Daniel 12:3). The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Jesus, “Yes.” And He said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there,” (Matthew 13:43-53)
So, here’s the challenge: have we truly been trained for the kingdom of heaven? Sadly, the fallacy concerning the Return of Jesus has persisted for too long that people have accepted it as the truth. Indeed, as the saying goes, “Repeat a lie often enough, and it becomes the truth.”
Have we been obedient to do our part in God’s kingdom? Paul wrote in Romans:
“So we (i.e., God’s church), though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:5-8)
Some individuals have been serving for financial gain, but Paul emphasizes that they are not like many others who peddle God’s word. Instead, they are sincere men, commissioned by God, who speak in Christ in the presence of God. (2 Corinthians 2:17) Others, similarly fixated on their calculators evaluating their contributions to God’s work, behave like stock market investors. When their investments decrease, their giving also diminishes. However, what happens when the market is thriving? Do their giving practices align with the increase in their financial standing?
Here’s a story from the Bible:
“Jesus sat opposite the treasury and observed the people depositing money into the offering box. Many wealthy individuals contributed substantial sums. However, a poor widow approached and placed two small copper coins, which constitute a penny. Jesus then called His disciples to Him and said, ‘Truly, I say to you, this impoverished widow has contributed more than all those who are giving to the offering box. They all contributed out of their abundance, but she, despite her poverty, has given everything she had, all that she needed to sustain herself.’” (Mark 12:41-44)
Let us all give to the Lord what has been entrusted to us first. Scripture state:
“Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth.” (Deuteronomy 8:17-18)
Christ Jesus told of a person who came to Him, asking about eternal life. Sadly though, being rich, Jesus issued a challenge to him. He walked away sorrowfully. (Matthew 19:16-22) Jesus then turned to His disciples and said:
“Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:23-24)
In several instance, the Bible warns against the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10; Hebrews 13:5). Some individuals are called to fulfill their work full-time in Christ’s ministry, while others are blessed with wealth. The Bible states:
“God’s workers accept nothing from people who are not believers. Therefore, we ourselves should support them so that we can be their partners as they teach the truth.” (3 John 5-8)
This serves as a test of our faithfulness to Jesus Christ, for both us as servants of God’s work and all Christians. God’s workers should remain faithful to His Word, and the church should partner with them through support and giving. Consider the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 17. It was not Elijah who was provided with sustenance, but the widow who gave him food.
“So Elijah arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks. And he called to her and said, ‘Bring me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.’ And as she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, ‘Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.’ And she said, ‘As the LORD your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. And now I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die.’ And Elijah said to her, ‘Do not fear; go and do as you have said. But first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son. For thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, “The jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the LORD sends rain upon the earth.” And she went and did as Elijah said. And she and he and her household ate for many days. The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty, according to the word of the LORD that He spoke by Elijah.” (1 Kings 17:10-16)
Back to our topic, thrice, Jesus warned the disciples, saying:
“If anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ don’t believe it. False christs and false prophets will rise and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. I have already told you this. Therefore, if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ don’t go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ don’t believe it. Just as the lightning flashes from the east to the west, so too will the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the dead body is, the eagles will gather around it.” (Matthew 24:23-28)
For Matthew 24:28, most modern translations of the Bible have it as “Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” However, the above translation from the NKJV uses “eagle” instead of “vultures.” In Greek, the word “Aetos” (G105) should have been translated as “eagles” instead of “vultures.” This verse is a reference to Deuteronomy 28:49, which states:
“The LORD will bring a nation against you (i.e., the Old Covenant Israel) from far away, from the end of the earth, swooping down like the eagle, a nation whose language you do not understand.”
In 70 AD, Rome, the foreign nation, destroyed both the city of Jerusalem and the sanctuary. God’s judgment was imminent for the generation that crucified Jesus, oppressed, and killed His apostles. Jesus declared:
“Truly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation” (Matthew 23:36).
Christ reiterated His judgment, stating:
“Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place” (Matthew 24:34).
So, why did post-first-century Christianity commit mistakes until today? Why is our current understanding of Christ’s return completely different from what I explained here? Christian theologians heavily relied on the early church fathers writings instead of the Scriptures, leading to their errors becoming our errors. Jesus emphasized the importance of discipleship, stating:
“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 he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” (Luke 6:39-40)
We have only one Teacher, and that’s Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. (Isaiah 30:22-21; 1 Corinthians 3:5-11) Let us learn from His Word, not from human writings. Be a Berean, verifying every teaching we hear or read from Scripture. (Acts 17:11) The Bible alone is inerrant.
At Unlearning Tradition, Relearning Scripture, we strive to restore the Bible’s authentic teachings. However, the only effective approach is to return to the traditional study of the Bible, as we were trained in seminary. This involves exegeting each passage, analyzing its context, audience, and historical relevance. Before the Bible addressed us, it first spoke to the early Christian community. Reading the Bible in the context of our current events would be eisegesis, which involves inserting our own ideas into the text rather than reading it as it was originally intended.
God through Jesus Christ promised us His eternal blessings. But distorted teachings on the Bible, and the need to live and survive have challenged our faith. How can we understand God’s Word in the midst of life’s turmoil?
The Bible states, “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10). Take time to learn from the Bible, and live in faith. Live a victorious life in Jesus Christ.
Jesus states, “I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
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!
God works in mysterious ways. Instead of focusing on pent-up frustration, I turned on Spotify to listen to Christian music while reading the verse of the day from a Bible app as a starting point to studying a whole book or passages. This morning it’s Micah 6:8. “He (i.e, God) has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Micah prophesied during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, all kings of Judah—a contemporary of Isaiah. It was a time of prosperity, and Micah denounced the wealthy for oppressing the poor and warned of God’s impending judgment (Micah 1:3-5). The northern kingdom had actually fallen during Micah’s ministry, in 722 BC, and Judah almost did as well (2 Kings 18-20).
Micah prophesied against the rulers and prophets of both Judah and Israel, who falsely claimed to speak from God (Micah 3). The highlight of Micah’s prophecy concerns the last days, the arrival of God’s kingdom (Micah 4:1-7; Isaiah 2:2-4; Romans 10:8-18), and Christ Jesus (Micah 5:2-5). Micah 6:6-8 reveals God’s heart and desire for His people: “With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:6-8)
God changes not. Micah 6:6-8 is precisely reflected in Hosea 6:6, which was quoted twice by Jesus Christ, first in Matthew 9:12-13, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Christ’s coming was to offer a second chance, a restoration to God.
The Bible states that everyone is born of Adam, born after Adam had fallen from the grace of God (Romans 5:12). Jesus Christ, therefore, is our only way back to God. He is the mediator of the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:11-12, 15; 12:22-24; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:25). The Bible states, “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive (1 Corinthians 15:22).” That’s the essence of our Christian water baptism. We die to Adam and are alive in Jesus, rising out of the water a new person in Christ . But unless we acknowledge being sinners, then Christ’s calling or the Gospel makes no sense to us. And unless we truly have become a new person in Christ, then our water baptism does not mean a thing. Water baptism is just an expression of one’s testimony that the person now belongs to Jesus Christ.
The second time is in Matthew 12:6-8, “I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. And if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
Jesus Christ is the true temple of God (Matthew 12:6; John 2:19, 21). Christ is the Head, and the church is His body (Colossians 1:18), built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets. Jesus Himself is the cornerstone, and by His death and resurrection, we Christians grow together into a holy temple in the Lord (Ephesians 2).
Yes, we Christians, the holy temple in the Lord, is greater than the Old Covenant Jerusalem temple. Hence, Jesus, in John 4 states, “Believe Me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and IS NOW HERE, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:21-24)
What does it take to worship God in spirit and truth? Surely, it does not mean simply going to the Sunday worship service or a building where Christians supposedly gather for worship, but to walk the talk. Here’s Paul’s words regarding worship: “I appeal to you (i.e. the church) therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:1-2)
Let me be clear, Paul, by “your bodies” refers to the church. See Romans 12:5, “So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath—a declaration Jesus revealed about Himself, making known that He is the God of creation (see Matthew 12:8; Genesis 1:1-2:2). Yes, Genesis creation account isn’t about God’s narration of His creation of all things, though indeed He alone is the creator of all things (Psalm 33:6-9; Colossians 1:16-17). God in Genesis used creation language to reveal His creation of His people. Hence, Paul, in 2 Corinthians 4:6, quotes Genesis 1:3, to explain God’s Old Covenant vis-à-vis the New, and God’s Old Covenant people vis-à-vis the New, His Church.
John also did the same, quoting Genesis 1:3, and referring it to Jesus, the Word. He even used the same opening phrase in Genesis “in the beginning” to connect the two. See John 1:1-5, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
God, through Christ Jesus, creates a new people for Himself, and we—the church—are God’s New Covenant people. (2 Corinthians 5:17-19) But have we truly learned from God’s Word?
How is it that Christians are still enticed by the world and its riches, if we have known true riches is only with Jesus Christ?
Have we Christians shown justice and mercy to our fellowmen?
Have our pastors truly been speaking Christ’s Word? Are we worshipping God and Jesus Christ in truth and in spirit? Why is it there are a lot of nominal Christians?
Have we been sharing the faith to our loved ones, fiancés, friends, and children? Why is it many times Christians fear men rather than God?
And I have a lot more vented frustrations having seen Christianity in its present mode. Until when will a Christian truly walk by faith? Does everyone need to have a Damascus experience or a denial like that of Peter before walking truthfully with Jesus? Sadly, many have walked the way of Judas, denying Jesus because He doesn’t suit their expectation of the Christ.
Jesus Christ, without a doubt, has arrived. His kingdom is a present reality, though it isn’t of this world. When asked by the Pharisees when God’s kingdom would come, Jesus states, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” (Luke 17:20-21)
The Bible states, “For Jesus must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15:25-26). Isn’t death destroyed already? If not, why are pastors saying in wakes, “Our Christian friend is now with the Lord Jesus Christ or in a better place?”
Christians have misunderstood the concept of death being destroyed. It doesn’t imply that Christians would cease to die physically. Instead, death is no longer an end to life, as Jesus states, “Truly I tell you, anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not face judgment but has transcended death to life.” (John 5:24)
Here’s the proof from Scripture that “death has been swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:54). The Bible, in 1 Corinthians 15:56 states, “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.”
Do we still have the Jerusalem temple standing today? If not, how can the Mosaic Law now be observed? Didn’t Christ’s death make obsolete the Mosaic regulations of animal offerings? With the second and final destruction of the Jerusalem temple, Daniel’s visions of the end came to be fulfilled. Scripture states, “When the shattering of the power of the holy people comes to an end; all these things would be finished (Daniel 12:7)”. The Mosaic law is the power of the Old Testament people (Deuteronomy 7:6-11), and it has become obsolete, fulfilled in Christ Jesus (Matthew 5:17; Hebrews 9; Luke 24:25-26; 24:44). Jesus is the true Israel (Isaiah 49:3). Similarly then, we Christians are nobody before God except by faith in Christ Jesus, the mediator of the New Covenant.
Even Adam’s death no longer holds power over Christians. Paul, in Romans, explains, “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus (i.e., the Gospel) has set you free from the law of sin and death (i.e., the law of Adam’s death [Genesis 2:16-17]). For what the law (i.e., the Mosaic law) could not accomplish because it was weakened by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh as a sin offering, so that the law’s requirement would be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1-4)
Christians, let us live by faith in Jesus Christ, then we shall see the workings of God’s kingdom. And in Him alone will we find peace, and not be frustrated. For Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Paul states, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. (Let me be clear, with Paul, Jesus is near, but now God’s with us [Matthew 1:23; Revelation 21:1-3].) Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7) Therefore, compared to Paul’s era, today’s Christians have the assurance of God’s peace. Unlike the beliefs and teachings of contemporary Christianity, the promises of Jesus are not delayed or long in coming; instead, they are a present reality.
Let us therefore turn our lament into praise. That’s how the psalms were written. That’s how prophets of the Old Testament comforted themselves. At the end of our laments, let us learn that God alone is our peace. Therefore, as Paul states, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:1-2)
All glory be to God and Jesus Christ alone!
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!
Some Christian congregations argue that hymns should be sung during gatherings, not contemporary music. Is there really a basis for such contention? Three times in the New Testament, Paul spoke about hymns; Ephesians 5:19 & Colossians 3:16.
“addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,” (Ephesians 5:19)
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16)
The third was in Acts: “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:25). Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, was the authority behind Luke; he wrote both the Gospel of Luke and Acts.
Yes, all of the New Testament writings have apostolic authority. The same may be said of Hebrews, though modern Bible scholars debate over its authorship. Keep in mind Peter’s statement: “Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:20-21). Though Peter here refers to the Old Testament Scriptures, are we to believe that the New Testament Scriptures are not of divine inspiration? Here is Paul’s testimony that he received divine inspiration from Jesus Christ:
“For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 1:11-12)
John also, attested that his writings was of divine inspiration from Jesus Christ:
“The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His servants (i.e. John and the rests) the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.” (Revelation 1:1-2)
Note: ScriptureDirect, a Greek linguistic tool, clearly distinguishes between “servants” and “his servant John”. The former is described as a plural noun, while the latter is singular. Here’s the link to download the app.
Peter also implied that his letters were divinely inspired. See 2 Peter 3:15-16, “And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.” (2 Peter 3:15-16)
Now, the hymns that some Christians ascribe to are not the hymns that Paul referred to. By hymns, Paul referred to the Psalms in the Bible, which are of divine inspiration. Inerrant and prophetic, they speak about the coming of the Christ or Messiah, or the Messianic kingdom. All hymns written outside the Scripture were authored from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, and after the Reformation.
Modern Christian songwriters, like their secular counterparts, draw inspiration from their personal experiences and observations. Theology also significantly influences their songwriting. It’s important to note that no Christian would contest that no post-AD 70 Christian songwriters can claim the inerrancy of their lyrics, unlike those of the Psalms in the Bible. Hebrews 1:1-2 states, “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed the heir of all things, through whom also He created the world.” This implies that Jesus Christ holds the final revelation of God.
A thorough examination of all the New Testament Scriptures reveals that none of its writings mention the fall of Jerusalem as a historical event. Instead, they emphasize that God’s judgment is imminent and about to be fulfilled at the time of their writings. Since all Scripture was written before A.D. 70, the fall of Jerusalem, a pivotal event that could not have escaped the writings of the New Testament, it is evident that all New Testament Scripture was composed before this date. For further clarification, please refer to this link, which explains that even Revelation was written before the fall of Jerusalem, contrary to the 90s suggestion made by some modern biblical scholars who relied on the writings of early church fathers from the second century of Christianity. None of them were infallible; a quick online search would easily reveal how they contradicted facts. For instance, Irenaeus’ book, ironically titled “Against Heresies,” Book two, chapter 22, claims that Jesus lived to be around 50 years old before His crucifixion. This is a clear contradiction of Scripture. Luke 3:23 explicitly states that Jesus was 30 years old when He began His ministry. According to the accounts of the John’s Gospel, which count the Passover Feasts He was present to and His crucifixion, His ministry lasted approximately 3.5 years. Modern Bible scholars have relied on Irenaeus’ writings to suggest that John wrote Revelation in the 90s. So, who should we believe: the Bible or Irenaeus? Should we rely on the internal evidence of Revelation or Irenaeus?
Now, back to our topic, are hymns outside the Bible more reliable and truthful to the Scripture than modern Christian music? I would say it’s a case-by-case basis, or maybe not. Am I suggesting that we ought not to listen to modern hymns and contemporary Christian music? No, I am not.
Modern hymns and contemporary Christian music are no different from personal testimonies of conversion narratives to the faith. They are not universal to all; we came to faith in different ways, but should have one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all (Ephesians 4:5-6).
Why don’t Christians simply agree to disagree for the time being regarding modern hymns and contemporary Christian music? Let’s prioritize learning from the Bible, which is of utmost importance. As stated in Ephesians 5:25-26, by faith, we have been sanctified, cleansed, and washed for Christ Jesus. By studying the Scriptures, we can individually grow in our understanding of God’s Word. Consequently, we will be able to discern which modern hymns and contemporary Christian music are not aligned with the Scriptures.
The same process should be experienced by each individual Christian. We all ought to grow in faith. Paul states, “And Christ gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness. Then we will no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the techniques of deceit. But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head — Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-15)
We no longer have the apostles with us. And I will argue that neither do we have prophets because Jesus already came. He spoke God’s revelation to us, which are now in our Bibles. Perhaps we still have evangelists, pastors, and teachers, but all of whom should be known and verified by their teachings and lives. Jesus Christ declares, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine 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)
Discern carefully, have you learned from the Rock, no other but Jesus Christ? Be careful not to be part of those who sought the wide gate (Matt 7:13-20), instead of the narrow gate, the way of Christ (John 14:6-7). Christ Jesus may no longer be with us physically, but His presence can be learned and experienced through the Scriptures. Paul states, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Again Paul declares, we ought not to seek things that can be seen but the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). Once we have learned to be guided by the things unseen, that is by faith in Christ Jesus, then unlike Adam, nothing in this world can entice you to forsake God.
So, should we focus on hymns or contemporary Christian music? Let’s not get bogged down by trivial matters. Instead, let’s focus on the Word of God, and we’ll no longer be concerned with such things. Only then can we truly serve Jesus Christ. Remember Christ’s words, “If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” (Matthew 15:14)
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.” Note: Click on underlines and highlights for definitions or Bible references. Freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribing directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!
