TWO ETERNAL REALITIES!!!! CHOOSE JESUS CHRIST TODAY!!! “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” — Hebrews 3:15 There are decisions in life that can be changed tomorrow. You can change your career. You can move to another city. You can repair a broken relationship. You can change your mind about many things. But there is one decision Scripture repeatedly tells us not to postpone: What will you do with Jesus Christ? The Bible presents us with two ultimate destinations: Eternal life with God through Jesus Christ or eternal separation from God because of the rejection of His salvation. This is not a game. This is not something to treat casually. And it is not a decision to postpone indefinitely. Jesus repeatedly warned people about eternity because He loves us. --- CHOICE ONE: RECEIVE JESUS CHRIST Jesus said: «“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6» The Gospel begins with an uncomfortable truth: We have all sinned. Romans 3:23 says: «“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”» But God did not leave humanity without hope. He sent His Son. Jesus Christ came into this world, lived without sin, willingly went to the cross, died for our sins, and rose again. John 3:16 declares: «“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”» Think about the magnitude of that promise. God's response to our rebellion was not simply judgment. He offered mercy. God's response to our sin was not merely condemnation. He offered forgiveness. God's response to our hopelessness was Jesus Christ. --- JESUS IS CALLING YOU Jesus said: «“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28» Notice the invitation: Come to Me. Not: “Fix yourself first.” Not: “Become perfect first.” Not: “Make yourself worthy first.” Come to Me. Repent. Believe. Surrender. Trust Him. Follow Him. Receive His grace. And let Christ transform your life. --- THE RAPTURE AND THE RETURN OF CHRIST Scripture teaches believers to remain watchful for Christ's return. Jesus said: «“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” — Matthew 24:42» Paul describes the resurrection and gathering of believers to Christ in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17. Whether Christ returns during our lifetime or we eventually leave this earthly life, the Christian's ultimate hope remains the same: To be with Christ. That is why believers are told: «“Encourage one another with these words.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:18» The message of Christ's return is not supposed to produce hopeless terror in those who belong to Him. It should produce: Hope. Readiness. Faithfulness. Holiness. Expectation. --- HEAVEN IS MORE THAN A PLACE Heaven's greatest blessing isn't simply beautiful scenery. It isn't merely freedom from pain. It isn't merely reunion. It isn't merely eternal life. The greatest blessing is God Himself. Revelation 21:3 says: «“God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them.”» And Revelation 21:4 gives us one of Scripture's most beautiful promises: «“There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”» Imagine a world where death is gone. Where suffering is gone. Where sin is gone. Where tears are gone. Where separation is gone. Where God's people dwell with Him forever. Revelation 22:4 says: «“They will see his face.”» That is the ultimate Christian hope: To see Jesus face to face. --- CHOICE TWO: REJECT CHRIST The Bible also gives a solemn warning. God does not force people to love Him. He does not force people to receive His salvation. He gives humanity a genuine choice. Jesus spoke seriously about judgment. Matthew 7:13–14 describes two roads: «“Enter through the narrow gate.”» Jesus also warned: «“Broad is the road that leads to destruction.”» This warning should never be used to frighten people into religious performance. It should instead awaken us to reality. Eternity matters. Our response to Christ matters. Our relationship with God matters. --- THE TERRIBLE TRAGEDY OF REJECTING GOD'S GRACE The tragedy of final judgment is not merely punishment. It is the ultimate loss of fellowship with God. God is the source of life. God is the source of goodness. God is the source of love. God is the source of hope. To reject God is to reject the very One who offers reconciliation. Jesus warned about hell because He did not want people to go there. The warnings of Scripture are therefore not evidence that God doesn't care. They are evidence that God takes eternity seriously. --- DON'T WAIT UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE James 4:14 reminds us that our earthly life is like a mist that appears briefly and then disappears. None of us knows exactly how long we have. We should therefore never say: “I'll get right with God someday.” Someday isn't guaranteed. Tomorrow isn't promised. The Bible says: «“Now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.” — 2 Corinthians 6:2» And Hebrews 3:15 says: «“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”» If the Holy Spirit is convicting your heart today: Don't run from Him. Turn toward Him. --- REPENTANCE IS NOT GOD'S ENEMY Repentance isn't God trying to ruin your life. Repentance means turning around. Turning away from sin. Turning toward God. Turning away from rebellion. Turning toward Jesus. Turning away from darkness. Turning toward the Light. Jesus began His ministry with this message: «“Repent and believe the good news!” — Mark 1:15» Repentance isn't about earning salvation. It is about responding to God's grace with a surrendered heart. --- YOU CANNOT SAVE YOURSELF Ephesians 2:8–9 says: «“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”» You cannot purchase salvation. You cannot earn salvation. You cannot manufacture salvation. You cannot become good enough to save yourself. Jesus saves. That is why the Gospel is called good news. Jesus did what we could never do. He paid the price for sin. He conquered death. He rose again. And He offers forgiveness and eternal life to those who come to Him in faith. --- DON'T LET SATAN LIE TO YOU The enemy may whisper: “You're too far gone.” “God won't forgive you.” “You've failed too many times.” “There's no point coming back.” But those accusations are not the Gospel. Jesus says: «“Whoever comes to me I will never drive away.” — John 6:37» What an incredible promise. Whoever comes. Not merely the perfect. Not merely the religious. Not merely the people who have never failed. Whoever comes. Come to Jesus. --- TWO ROADS There are ultimately two roads. One leads toward God. One leads away from God. One is surrender. One is rebellion. One receives grace. One rejects grace. One leads to life. One leads to destruction. And Jesus tells us to choose life. Deuteronomy 30:19 says: «“I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life.”» The invitation is before you. Choose Jesus. --- BUT DON'T LIVE IN TERROR Christianity isn't supposed to be: “I'm terrified that God will throw me away.” The Gospel says: God loved you enough to send Jesus to rescue you. Romans 8:1 says: «“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”» If you have genuinely placed your faith in Christ, don't spend your entire life staring backward at your failures. Look toward Jesus. Confess your sins. Receive His forgiveness. Walk with Him. Grow in Him. And trust His grace. --- THE FINAL QUESTION One day every human being will stand before eternity. The question will not ultimately be: “How successful were you?” “How much money did you accumulate?” “How famous did you become?” “How many possessions did you own?” The most important question is: What did you do with Jesus Christ? Did you receive Him? Did you trust Him? Did you repent? Did you surrender? Did you follow Him? Jesus asks: «“Who do you say I am?” — Matthew 16:15» And Peter answered: «“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:16» That is the confession that changes everything. --- TODAY — CHOOSE JESUS If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, you can begin today. You don't need fancy words. You need an honest heart. You can say: “Jesus, I need You.” “Jesus, forgive me.” “Jesus, I repent.” “Jesus, I believe You died for my sins and rose again.” “Jesus, I surrender my life to You.” “Be my Lord, my Savior, and my King.” Then begin walking with Him. Read His Word. Pray. Seek fellowship with genuine believers. Turn away from deliberate sin. Learn to obey Him. And when you stumble, get back up and return to Him. --- FINAL APPEAL Don't gamble with eternity. Don't assume you have unlimited time. Don't harden your heart. Don't allow pride to keep you from grace. Don't let shame keep you away from Jesus. Don't let yesterday determine tomorrow. Jesus Christ is calling you today. There is forgiveness. There is mercy. There is grace. There is salvation. There is hope. There is eternal life. And it is found in Jesus Christ. Choose Jesus. Not because you are terrified of death— but because He is worthy of your life. Not merely because heaven is beautiful— but because Jesus is there. Not merely because hell is terrible— but because God has opened the door of salvation through His Son. The invitation is before you. Come to Jesus. Repent. Believe. Surrender. Follow Him. And never turn back. --- DEEP PRAYER OF REPENTANCE, SURRENDER, AND ETERNAL HOPE Heavenly Father, I come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. I recognize that You are holy, righteous, merciful, and loving. I recognize that I am a sinner and that I cannot save myself through my own goodness. I need Jesus. Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that You are the Son of God. I believe that You came into this world. I believe that You lived without sin. I believe that You willingly went to the cross. I believe that You died for our sins. I believe that You rose from the dead. And I believe that You are alive forevermore. Jesus, I surrender myself to You. Be my Lord. Be my Savior. Be my King. Forgive my sins. Wash me clean. Change my heart. Change my desires. Change my thinking. Change my words. Change my actions. Change my priorities. Take everything in me that does not belong to You and transform it by Your grace. Holy Spirit, lead me. Convict me when I wander. Correct me when I become proud. Strengthen me when I am weak. Comfort me when I am hurting. Teach me to recognize Your voice through the truth of Scripture. Give me a hunger for God's Word. Give me a desire to pray. Give me a desire for holiness. Give me compassion for people who are lost. Give me courage to tell others about Jesus. Father, I don't want to live carelessly. I don't want to presume upon Your grace. I don't want to harden my heart. I don't want to spend my life chasing temporary things while neglecting eternal things. Help me keep eternity before my eyes. But Father, also help me remember that my life today matters. Give me strength to keep living faithfully. Give me strength to keep serving. Give me strength to keep loving. Give me strength to keep praying. Give me strength to keep believing. When fear about eternity comes against me, point me back to Jesus. When Satan accuses me, remind me of the finished work of Christ. When shame tells me I am too far gone, remind me of Your mercy. When I fall, teach me to repent and get back up. When I become discouraged, remind me that Your grace is greater than my failures. Father, keep my heart tender toward You. Don't allow me to become spiritually cold. Don't allow me to become complacent. Don't allow me to become distracted from Jesus. Help me finish my earthly race faithfully. And when my earthly journey eventually ends, let me be found trusting Christ. My hope is not in my own righteousness. My hope is Jesus. My confidence is not in my performance. My confidence is in Your grace. My salvation is not something I can boast about. It is Your gift. Thank You for the cross. Thank You for the empty tomb. Thank You for the blood of Jesus. Thank You for forgiveness. Thank You for mercy. Thank You for grace. Thank You for the promise of eternal life. Father, prepare me for eternity. Make me ready to meet Jesus. And until that day, help me live for Him with everything I have. I pray for those who are currently far away from You. Soften their hearts. Open their eyes. Break through their pride. Heal their wounds. Remove the lies that keep them from believing. Send faithful Christians into their lives who will lovingly share the Gospel. Let them encounter Jesus. Let them discover Your mercy. Let them turn from darkness toward light. Let them repent. Let them believe. Let them be saved. And Lord, help us never use the reality of judgment as an excuse to hate or condemn people. Instead, give us tears for the lost. Give us compassion. Give us patience. Give us courage. Give us love. Let us proclaim the truth while demonstrating the character of Christ. Father, I choose life. I choose Jesus. I choose surrender. I choose faith. I choose to follow Christ. And I ask You to help me remain faithful until the end. My future is in Your hands. My hope is in Jesus Christ. My eternity belongs to You. And my prayer is: “Come, Lord Jesus.” But until that glorious day, help me live for Jesus. Help me love like Jesus. Help me forgive like Jesus. Help me serve like Jesus. Help me pray like Jesus. Help me walk in holiness. Help me share the Gospel. Help me finish well. And when I finally see Jesus face to face, may my heart be filled with overwhelming gratitude that He never stopped calling me toward Himself. Jesus Christ is my Lord. Jesus Christ is my Savior. Jesus Christ is my King. Jesus Christ is my hope. Jesus Christ is my eternal life. In the mighty, holy, precious, and glorious name of Jesus Christ, Amen. 🙏✝️👑 ************************ THE RAPTURE AND THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST A Standalone Sermon: Be Ready for the Return of the King 👑 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” — Matthew 24:42 There is one promise running throughout the New Testament that every Christian should take seriously: JESUS CHRIST IS COMING AGAIN. The early Church lived with this expectation. The apostles preached it. Jesus promised it. The book of Revelation ends with it. And Christians throughout history have looked forward to the day when faith becomes sight and we see our King face to face. But what exactly does the Bible mean when we talk about the Rapture and the Second Coming? And more importantly: How should we live if Jesus could return at any time? --- 1. JESUS PROMISED TO RETURN Jesus didn't leave His disciples with the idea that His earthly ministry was the end. He told them: «“I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” — John 14:3» What an incredible promise. Jesus is not abandoning His people. He is coming again. The Christian hope is not based upon wishful thinking. It is based upon the promise of the risen Christ. The One who came the first time in humility will ultimately return in glory. --- 2. WHAT IS THE RAPTURE? The word “rapture” isn't found in most English translations of the Bible, but the concept comes from passages describing believers being “caught up” to meet Christ. Paul writes: «“The Lord himself will come down from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive… will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17» Think about those words: The dead in Christ will rise. Believers who are alive will be caught up. We will meet the Lord. And we will be with the Lord forever. Paul concludes: «“And so we will be with the Lord forever.”» Then he says: «“Encourage one another with these words.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:18» The Rapture, therefore, is fundamentally a message of hope for believers. --- 3. THE RESURRECTION OF BELIEVERS Paul gives another remarkable description in 1 Corinthians 15. He says: «“We will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.” — 1 Corinthians 15:51–52» Our present bodies are temporary. But God promises resurrection. Corruption will give way to incorruption. Mortality will give way to immortality. And Paul declares: «“Death has been swallowed up in victory.” — 1 Corinthians 15:54» That is the Christian hope. Death does not have the final word. Jesus does. --- 4. WHAT IS THE SECOND COMING? The Second Coming refers to Christ's glorious return. Jesus said: «“They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.” — Matthew 24:30» This isn't presented as a secret or insignificant event. Christ returns as King. Revelation 19 portrays Him as the victorious King riding forth in righteousness. The One who was mocked will be revealed in glory. The One who was rejected will be acknowledged as King. The One who was crucified will return in triumph. --- 5. RAPTURE AND SECOND COMING — ARE THEY THE SAME EVENT? Christians disagree about exactly how these prophetic passages fit together. Some believe the Rapture occurs before the tribulation and that Christ's visible Second Coming occurs later. Others believe the gathering of believers happens in connection with Christ's visible return. There are also other interpretations concerning the timing of these events. We should therefore be humble when discussing the exact prophetic timeline. But there are truths we can hold firmly: Jesus is coming again. The dead in Christ will be raised. Believers will be gathered to Christ. Jesus will return in glory. Christ will ultimately triumph over evil. God will judge with perfect righteousness. God will establish His eternal kingdom. God will make all things new. Those truths are far more important than winning arguments about timelines. --- 6. THE RAPTURE SHOULD PRODUCE HOPE Some people hear about the Rapture and immediately become terrified. But Paul didn't present the resurrection and gathering of believers primarily as a message of terror. He said: «“Encourage one another with these words.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:18» Why? Because the Christian has a future. The grave isn't the end. Death isn't the end. Suffering isn't the end. Grief isn't the end. Jesus is coming. Resurrection is coming. Restoration is coming. Eternal life is coming. --- 7. THE SECOND COMING SHOULD PRODUCE HOLINESS Peter asks an important question concerning Christ's return: «“What kind of people ought you to be?” — 2 Peter 3:11» In other words: If Jesus is coming again, How should we live today? The answer isn't: “Try to calculate the exact date.” Jesus specifically warned against that kind of certainty. Instead: Be ready. Be faithful. Be watchful. Repent when you sin. Forgive people. Love God. Love your neighbor. Share the Gospel. Walk in holiness. Keep your heart tender toward God. --- 8. DON'T WAIT UNTIL TOMORROW Jesus repeatedly emphasized watchfulness. Matthew 24:44 says: «“So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”» We don't know exactly when Christ will return. We don't know how long our earthly lives will last. Therefore: Today matters. If you need to repent, repent today. If you need to forgive, forgive today. If you need to return to God, return today. If you've grown spiritually cold, come back today. If you've been putting off following Jesus, don't keep postponing it. --- 9. THE WARNING OF MATTHEW 7 Jesus gave one of the most sobering warnings in Scripture: «“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 7:21» Jesus wasn't teaching that salvation comes through human perfection. He was warning against empty profession. It is possible to say religious words while never truly surrendering our hearts to God. Therefore, don't merely say: “I believe in Jesus.” Ask: Am I actually following Jesus? Do I repent when He convicts me? Do I trust His grace? Do I desire His presence? Do I want His will? Do I love His Word? Do I seek to obey Him? Do I get back up when I fall? Christianity isn't merely a label. It is a relationship with Jesus Christ that transforms the direction of our lives. --- 10. DON'T LET FEAR DRIVE YOU AWAY FROM JESUS If you are worried about your salvation, don't run away from Christ. Run toward Him. Jesus said: «“Whoever comes to me I will never drive away.” — John 6:37» That is a beautiful promise. When you fail: Come to Jesus. When you sin: Come to Jesus. When you are ashamed: Come to Jesus. When you are afraid: Come to Jesus. When your faith feels weak: Come to Jesus. When you don't know what to do: Come to Jesus. He is the Savior. --- 11. THERE IS NO CONDEMNATION FOR THOSE IN CHRIST Romans 8:1 declares: «“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”» That doesn't mean sin doesn't matter. It means Christ has provided the answer for sin. The believer's confidence isn't: “I am perfect.” It is: “Jesus is my Savior.” Our hope isn't based on our ability to perform perfectly. Our hope rests upon the finished work of Christ. --- 12. HEAVEN IS THE DESTINATION OF OUR HOPE What awaits God's people? Revelation 21:4 says: «“There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”» Revelation 22:4 says: «“They will see his face.”» That is the ultimate hope. Not merely beautiful surroundings. Not merely freedom from suffering. Not merely eternal existence. Jesus Himself. One day we will see our Savior. One day we will understand. One day the tears will end. One day death will be defeated forever. One day God will make everything new. --- 13. SO BE READY Jesus said: «“Keep watch.”» Not: “Live in panic.” Not: “Spend your life trying to predict the date.” Not: “Argue endlessly with other Christians about prophetic timelines.” Keep watch. Live ready. Love ready. Pray ready. Serve ready. Repent ready. Forgive ready. Share the Gospel ready. And if Jesus returns tomorrow— be ready to meet Him. If He returns years from now— be faithful until then. If our earthly lives end before His return— our hope remains Christ. --- FINAL APPEAL There is coming a day when every earthly distraction will disappear. Money won't matter. Possessions won't matter. Status won't matter. Career won't matter. Popularity won't matter. The only thing that will matter is Jesus Christ. So don't spend your life preparing only for retirement. Prepare for eternity. Don't merely prepare your house. Prepare your heart. Don't merely build earthly wealth. Build treasure in heaven. Don't merely ask: “How long will I live?” Ask: “How will I live for Jesus while I am here?” Jesus Christ is coming again. The King is coming. The resurrection is coming. The kingdom is coming. The restoration is coming. And the Bible's final invitation remains: «“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’” — Revelation 22:17» And the final promise of Jesus is: «“Yes, I am coming soon.” — Revelation 22:20» So let the Church answer: “AMEN. COME, LORD JESUS!” Until that day: KEEP WATCHING. KEEP PRAYING. KEEP BELIEVING. KEEP REPENTING. KEEP FOLLOWING JESUS. KEEP YOUR LAMP BURNING. KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE KING. 👑 JESUS CHRIST IS COMING AGAIN. ✝️ --- DEEP PRAYER — “LORD JESUS, MAKE ME READY” Heavenly Father, I come before You in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise that Jesus Christ is coming again. Thank You that death does not have the final word. Thank You for the resurrection. Thank You for eternal life. Thank You for the cross. Thank You for the empty tomb. Thank You for grace. Thank You for mercy. Thank You for forgiveness. Father, prepare my heart for eternity. Search me and know me. Reveal anything in my life that needs to change. Where I have become spiritually cold, set my heart on fire again. Where I have become distracted, turn my eyes back toward Jesus. Where I have become proud, humble me. Where I have become careless, awaken me. Where I have become fearful, strengthen my faith. Where I have sinned, lead me to genuine repentance. Where I have wounded others, teach me to seek forgiveness. Where others have wounded me, give me grace to forgive. Lord Jesus, I surrender myself to You. You are my Lord. You are my Savior. You are my King. I do not want merely to know about You. I want to know You. I don't want merely to carry the name “Christian.” I want my life to belong to Christ. Holy Spirit, transform me from the inside out. Give me a hunger for God's Word. Give me a deeper prayer life. Give me discernment. Give me holiness. Give me obedience. Give me endurance. Give me compassion for the lost. Give me courage to share the Gospel. Help me become the person You have called me to be. Father, when I think about the return of Christ, don't allow fear to consume me. Give me holy expectation. Help me look forward to seeing Jesus. Help me remember that the promise of Christ's return is ultimately a promise of hope. When I hear about the Rapture, remind me of the promise: “We will be with the Lord forever.” When I think about Christ's Second Coming, remind me that our King will ultimately triumph. When I think about judgment, lead me to repentance rather than despair. When Satan accuses me, remind me that my hope is Jesus Christ. When I fall, help me get back up. When I fail, help me return to You. When I am weak, strengthen me. When I am exhausted, carry me. When I don't understand Your ways, help me trust Your character. Father, keep my heart ready. Let me never become complacent. Let me never assume that tomorrow is guaranteed. Teach me to live each day as though it matters eternally. Help me love people while I have the opportunity. Help me forgive while I have the opportunity. Help me serve while I have the opportunity. Help me tell people about Jesus while I have the opportunity. And Lord, please give me wisdom concerning the end times. Protect me from false teaching. Protect me from sensationalism. Protect me from fear. Protect me from deception. Help me remain anchored in Scripture. Where faithful Christians disagree about prophetic details, give us humility and love. Keep the main thing the main thing: Jesus Christ. Father, I pray for everyone who is far from You. Open their hearts. Open their eyes. Let them encounter the love and truth of Jesus Christ. Lead them to repentance. Lead them to faith. Lead them to salvation. And use Your people to proclaim the Gospel with courage and compassion. Lord Jesus, when You return, let me be found watching. Let me be found praying. Let me be found loving. Let me be found serving. Let me be found trusting You. Let me be found faithful. And when I finally see You face to face, may I fall before Your throne in worship and realize that every promise You made was true. No more death. No more sorrow. No more crying. No more pain. Only the presence of God. Only the glory of Christ. Only eternal life. Only the joy of being with You. Father, until that day, help me keep walking. Help me keep believing. Help me keep hoping. Help me keep serving. Help me keep my eyes upon Jesus. And let my heart continually cry: “COME, LORD JESUS!” Until You come, I will seek to live for You. Until You come, I will trust You. Until You come, I will worship You. Until You come, I will proclaim Your Gospel. Until You come, I will keep my eyes on the King. Jesus Christ is coming again. He is my hope. He is my Savior. He is my Lord. He is my King. In the mighty, holy, precious, and glorious name of Jesus Christ, AMEN. 🙏✝️👑 ----------------------------------------------------- The Most Downloaded and Used Bible App in the World!!! Built to help people create daily spiritual rhythms, the Bible App brings Scripture to life on any device, in thousands of languages. All completely free. Whether it’s a verse before school, a devotional with friends, or a shared prayer in a church group, this is more than an app. It’s a community of people staying connected to God through His Word. Download the Bible App https://www.youversion.com/bible-app *************************************************** DON'T LOOK AT YOURSELF — LOOK AT YOUR SHEPHERD Finding Confidence in Christ When Matthew 7:21–23 Frightens You Key Scriptures: Matthew 7:21–23; Romans 8:1; Romans 8:38–39; John 6:37; John 10:27–29; Ephesians 2:8–9; 1 John 5:11–13 Introduction There are words in the Bible that comfort us deeply, and there are words that make us tremble. Matthew 7:21–23 is one of those passages that can cause a sincere Christian to stop and ask: “What if I think I belong to Jesus, but I really don't?” Jesus says that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven. He speaks of people who point to their religious accomplishments—even things they claim to have done in His name—and yet hear the terrifying words, “I never knew you.” That warning should cause us to take our relationship with Christ seriously. But it should not drive a person who genuinely wants Christ into hopelessness. Because Matthew 7 must be read alongside the enormous promises of Romans 8. The answer is not to stare endlessly at ourselves and ask, “Am I good enough?” The answer is to look to Jesus Christ. 1. Matthew 7 Is a Warning Against False Confidence Jesus was warning against people who had religious words and religious accomplishments but lacked a genuine relationship with Him. They said: “Lord, Lord…” They pointed to what they had done. But Jesus said: “I never knew you.” Notice something important. The issue wasn't that these people had committed some ordinary Christian failure and Jesus suddenly decided they weren't good enough. Their confidence was ultimately centered in what they had done, rather than in knowing and submitting to Christ. That is why this passage should lead us to examine our foundation—not to live in perpetual terror. Ask: Am I trusting Jesus Christ? Am I turning toward Him when I fail? Do I want Him to be Lord of my life? Do I desire to follow Him, even though I am imperfect? Those questions are very different from: “Have I been perfect enough to deserve heaven?” Because none of us can answer that question with “yes.” 2. Your Salvation Is Not Built Upon Your Perfection Ephesians 2:8–9 says that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our works. That means salvation isn't a trophy we earn after successfully completing a lifetime of flawless Christianity. We are sinners who need a Savior. And our Savior is Jesus. When you fall, you don't need to run away from Christ. You need to run toward Him. When you fail, repent. When you sin, confess it. When you become discouraged, return to Him. When you doubt, seek Him. When you feel unworthy, remember that your worthiness was never the foundation of salvation in the first place. Jesus is the foundation. 3. Romans 8 Does Not Contradict Matthew 7 Now we come to the passage that can bring tremendous comfort. Romans 8:1 declares: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Notice those words: “In Christ Jesus.” Paul doesn't say there is no condemnation because Christians never make mistakes. He says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. And later in Romans 8, Paul gives one of Scripture's greatest declarations of security. Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. That means your assurance isn't: “I am strong enough to hold onto Jesus.” Your hope is: “Jesus is strong enough to hold onto me.” 4. Look at What Jesus Himself Promised Jesus said in John 6:37: “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” Think about that. Never. If you genuinely come to Christ, you don't need to imagine Jesus standing there waiting for an opportunity to throw you away. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. John 10:27–29 speaks of His sheep hearing His voice, following Him, and being held securely in His hand. The Christian life is not: “I must become perfect so Jesus will finally accept me.” It is: “Because Jesus has loved me and called me, I want to follow Him.” 5. Don't Make Your Feelings Your Judge There will be nights when you feel close to God. There will also be nights when you feel absolutely nothing. There will be moments of tremendous faith. There will be moments of terrible doubt. There will be seasons when prayer seems easy. There will be seasons when your prayers feel like they hit the ceiling. Your feelings are real, but your feelings are not your Savior. Jesus is. Your emotions can change from hour to hour. Christ does not. Your confidence should ultimately rest not upon how strongly you feel saved, but upon the character and promises of Jesus Christ. 6. What About the Sins and Mistakes of Your Past? Perhaps you've lived many years and look backward thinking: “I've made so many mistakes. What if God holds them all against me?” The Gospel gives us an answer. Christ died for sinners. Repentance means turning toward God rather than making peace with sin. A Christian may stumble. A Christian may fail. A Christian may have seasons of weakness. But don't confuse struggling with sin with loving and deliberately embracing rebellion against God. When you fall, get back up. When you wander, come home. When you become cold, ask God to revive your heart. When you become afraid, remember the cross. The blood of Jesus is not weaker than your past. 7. Your Confidence Must Be in Christ Perhaps the most important sentence in this entire sermon is this: STOP MEASURING THE STRENGTH OF YOUR SALVATION BY THE STRENGTH OF YOURSELF. You are not the Savior. Jesus is. You did not die on the cross for your sins. Jesus did. You did not rise from the grave. Jesus did. You cannot forgive your own sins. Jesus can. You cannot guarantee your own future. But you can entrust your future to the One who holds eternity in His hands. So when Matthew 7 frightens you, don't ignore it. Let it drive you toward Christ. And when Romans 8 tells you there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, believe that promise too. The Bible contains both warning and comfort. The warning tells us: Don't pretend to know Christ while rejecting Him. The comfort tells the genuine believer: Don't live as though Christ is eager to abandon you. 8. The Question Is Not “Am I Perfect?” The question is: “Am I trusting Jesus Christ?” Are you coming to Him? Are you confessing your sins? Are you asking Him to forgive and transform you? Are you seeking to follow Him? Do you want Him as your Lord and Savior? Then don't spend every waking moment putting yourself on trial. Bring your fears to Jesus. Bring your failures to Jesus. Bring your doubts to Jesus. Bring your entire life to Jesus. LOOK TO THE SHEPHERD. Not yourself. Not your emotions. Not your performance. Not your past. Jesus. Conclusion One day every one of us will stand before God. Our hope on that day cannot be: “Lord, look how good I was.” Our hope is: “Lord Jesus, I trusted You.” The Gospel is not the story of good people becoming good enough for God. It is the story of a holy God reaching down to save sinners through His Son. So don't run from Jesus because you're afraid you're not good enough. Run to Jesus because you know you aren't. And discover that His grace is greater than your failures. When fear whispers: “What if Jesus rejects you?” Answer with His promise: “Whoever comes to Me I will never cast out.” — John 6:37 When condemnation whispers: “You're finished.” Answer with Scripture: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 When fear says: “You will be separated from God's love.” Remember Romans 8:38–39: Nothing in all creation can separate those who are in Christ from the love of God. So tonight, tomorrow, and every day: Don't look at yourself. Look at your Shepherd. Look at Jesus. Trust Him. Follow Him. Repent when you fall. Receive His grace. And keep your eyes fixed upon Christ. --- CLOSING PRAYER Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus Christ. Lord, I confess that I am not perfect. I have failed You many times. I have sinned, made mistakes, wandered, doubted, become discouraged, and sometimes wondered whether I truly belong to You. But today I choose not to put my confidence in myself. I put my confidence in Jesus Christ. Thank You for sending Your Son to die for sinners. Thank You that salvation is by grace through faith and not something I can earn through my own works. Lord Jesus, help me understand Matthew 7:21–23 correctly. Let its warning keep me humble, sincere, repentant, and genuinely devoted to You—but don't allow fear to make me forget Your promises of mercy and grace. When I fail, help me run toward You instead of hiding from You. When I sin, give me genuine repentance. When I doubt, strengthen my faith. When I feel condemned, remind me of Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” When I fear that You will abandon me, remind me of Your promise: “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” Jesus, You are my Shepherd. I cannot save myself. I cannot make myself worthy. I cannot depend upon my own goodness. I need You. Help me follow You faithfully for the rest of my life. Give me a heart that loves You. Give me a heart that hates sin. Give me a heart that quickly repents. Give me a heart that desires Your presence. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and make me more like Jesus. And when the enemy whispers condemnation into my mind, help me remember that my hope is not in how strong I am. My hope is in how faithful You are. Father, I place my past in Your mercy. I place my present in Your hands. And I place my future in Your hands. I choose to trust Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Help me keep my eyes upon my Shepherd until the day I see Him face to face. In the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, Amen. 🙏✝️❤️ REMEMBER: Don't look at yourself. Look at your Shepherd. Don't trust your perfection. Trust Christ. Don't run away when you fail. Run back to Jesus. Your hope is not in yourself. Your hope is in Jesus Christ. ------------------------------------------------------ The Most Downloaded and Used Bible App in the World!!! Built to help people create daily spiritual rhythms, the Bible App brings Scripture to life on any device, in thousands of languages. All completely free. Whether it’s a verse before school, a devotional with friends, or a shared prayer in a church group, this is more than an app. It’s a community of people staying connected to God through His Word. Download the Bible App https://www.youversion.com/bible-app ************************************************** 🔥 THE REGENERATED LIFE: YOU CANNOT MAKE PEACE WITH SIN “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 There is a powerful truth in the Gospel that we must never forget: Jesus doesn't merely forgive us—He changes us. When the Holy Spirit regenerates a person, that person receives a new spiritual life. Their relationship with sin changes. Sin may still tempt them. They may still stumble. They may still fail. But they can no longer comfortably say, “Sin is my lifestyle, and I don't care what God says.” --- ✝️ REGENERATION PRODUCES A NEW LIFE John writes: > “No one who abides in him keeps on sinning.” — 1 John 3:6 And: > “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him.” — 1 John 3:9 These are extremely serious words. Being born again isn't simply changing our religious label. It isn't merely saying a prayer. It isn't simply attending church. It isn't simply knowing Bible verses. Regeneration means God gives us new spiritual life. The Holy Spirit begins transforming our desires, our attitudes, our choices, and our relationship with God. --- 🔥 GRACE DOES NOT GIVE US PERMISSION TO LIVE IN SIN Paul anticipated this very question: > “Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means!” — Romans 6:1–2 Grace is not God's permission slip for rebellion. Jesus didn't die so that we could say: “Now I can sin without consequences.” He died to rescue us from the dominion of sin. Romans 6:14 says: > “For sin will have no dominion over you.” The Christian life isn't: “I am saved, therefore I can live however I want.” It is: “I have been saved by Christ, therefore I want to live for Christ.” --- ❤️ BUT CHRISTIANS STILL FALL This distinction is extremely important. If regeneration meant that a Christian would never commit another sin, then John would never have written: > “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves.” — 1 John 1:8 Christians can stumble. Christians can become weak. Christians can make terrible decisions. Christians can fall into temptation. Peter denied Jesus. David committed terrible sins. But there is a difference between: FALLING INTO SIN and DELiberately MAKING SIN YOUR WAY OF LIFE. A regenerated believer may fall—but God's Spirit doesn't leave them comfortable in the pit. The Holy Spirit convicts. The conscience becomes troubled. The believer turns back. Repentance begins. And they cry: “Lord Jesus, forgive me and help me!” --- 🕊️ THE HOLY SPIRIT CHANGES OUR DIRECTION Ezekiel 36:26–27 gives a beautiful picture of God's transforming work: > “I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you.” And: > “I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes.” That's regeneration. God doesn't merely tell us: “Try harder.” He gives us His Spirit. He gives us a new heart. He begins changing us from the inside out. --- 🔥 WHAT DOES A REGENERATED PERSON LOOK LIKE? A regenerated Christian isn't necessarily someone who never struggles. It is someone whose direction has changed. They begin to hate what they once loved. They begin to love what God loves. They become increasingly sensitive to sin. They desire God's Word. They desire prayer. They desire fellowship with God. They repent when they fall. They want Jesus—not merely the benefits of Jesus. And gradually, the fruit of the Spirit begins appearing: > “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” — Galatians 5:22–23 🌱 Transformation takes time. A newborn Christian is still growing. God doesn't demand that a spiritual infant immediately possess the maturity of a lifelong believer. But there should be life. There should be growth. There should be movement toward Christ. --- ⚠️ DON'T USE GRACE AS AN EXCUSE Romans 6:12 says: > “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.” Don't deliberately feed what God is trying to kill. Don't continually return to the same chains while saying: “Grace doesn't matter.” Instead: Run toward Jesus. When temptation comes—pray. When you fall—repent. When you are weak—ask for strength. When you are discouraged—remember God's promises. When you fail—don't hide from God. Come back to Him. --- ✝️ YOUR CONFIDENCE IS JESUS Here's something every believer needs to understand: Your salvation doesn't rest upon your ability to perform perfectly. Your salvation rests upon Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8–9: > “For by grace you have been saved through faith… not a result of works.” And Philippians 1:6 gives us tremendous hope: > “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Therefore: Don't become proud when you succeed. Don't despair when you stumble. Stay close to Jesus. Keep repenting. Keep believing. Keep following. Keep surrendering. Keep growing. Keep your eyes on Christ. --- 🙏 PRAYER — “LORD, MAKE ME A NEW CREATION” Heavenly Father, I come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Thank You for Your incredible grace and mercy. Thank You that salvation isn't something I can earn through my own works. Thank You that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again. Lord Jesus, I surrender myself to You. Give me a new heart. Give me a new spirit. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Break the power of sin over my life. Help me stop making excuses for things that You want removed from my life. Give me genuine repentance. Give me genuine faith. Give me genuine obedience. Give me genuine love for You. Lord, I know I am still capable of stumbling. When I fall, don't let me run away from You. Teach me to run toward You. Convict me when I sin. Give me humility to confess it. Give me strength to turn away from it. Give me perseverance to keep following You. I don't want to merely call You Lord with my lips. I want You to truly be Lord of my life. Change my desires. Change my thoughts. Change my words. Change my actions. Make me increasingly like Jesus. Produce the fruit of Your Spirit in me. Let love replace hatred. Let purity replace impurity. Let forgiveness replace bitterness. Let humility replace pride. Let obedience replace rebellion. Let faith replace fear. And when Satan reminds me of my failures, remind me of the cross. When condemnation overwhelms me, remind me: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” I don't want to live in deliberate rebellion against You. I want to walk with You. I want to know You. I want to love You. I want to serve You. I want to finish my race faithfully. Lord Jesus, keep me close to You until the day I see You face-to-face. You are my Savior. You are my Lord. You are my King. You are my righteousness. You are my hope. I place my life and eternity into Your hands. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, AMEN. 🙏✝️🔥 🌅 FINAL REMINDER Regeneration doesn't mean you never stumble. Regeneration means you don't want to remain in the darkness. You may fall—but get back up. You may fail—but run back to Jesus. You may struggle—but don't surrender to sin. Because the One who saved you is also the One who is transforming you. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 ✝️❤️🔥

What Is Sin? Sin is the transgression of the Word of God. But what does it mean to transgress the Word of God? It means doing the opposite of what God has established. The Word of God is a statute, a rule established by the Creator, and all human beings are meant to live according to these statutes. When someone stops living according to what God has established, they are transgressing His commandments. And the transgression of the commandments is sin. And everyone who commits sin becomes imprisoned. Do you understand where I’m going with this? There are chains on Earth. You are physical matter, but you are also a spirit. God gave human beings rules to live by, to believe by, and to deal with spiritual matters through His Word, by faith in His Word, and also by obeying His commandments. When a person does the opposite of what God has established, they enter into chains. Just as there are prisons in the physical world, there are also spiritual prisons. In the physical world, for example, there is pretrial detention. A person may not have been convicted yet, but depending on the crime committed and the circumstances, they may be imprisoned to prevent the risk of escape, obstruction of the investigation, or even the possibility of committing the same crime again. So, that person remains imprisoned while awaiting trial. In the same way, there are prisons here on Earth that function as a kind of pretrial detention. But afterward, the judgment comes. And when the judgment comes, what can the sentence be? Hell. That is why death also represents a judgment. And hell is the condemnation. Do you understand? Everyone who does not do the will of God, everyone who transgresses His commandments, becomes a prisoner. Everyone. Even those who imprison other people can also be prisoners themselves. Now, look at what happens when human beings choose not to live according to the rules that the Creator established for humanity.

To Live and Then Live --- Civilization is like a coin tossed in the air, waiting to fall to the ground. On one side, it promises progress. On the other, it crushes millions beneath its weight. Most of humanity comes from humble beginnings. For them, the universal basics—food, clothing, shelter—remain unmet. When your energy is consumed entirely by survival, there is little room left for anything else. The motivation to pursue higher callings doesn't even register. You're trapped in a relentless rat race, chasing what should be fundamental, yet experiencing unending failure and dissatisfaction. This is the tragedy of modern life: being too busy staying alive to actually live. But flip the coin. Once basic needs are met, once there is psychological comfort, something shifts. The desire to fulfill why we were created becomes the focus. The question transforms from "How will I survive?" to "What am I here for?" This is where civilization fulfills its noblest purpose—as a stepping stone for self-actualization. Civilization is an ongoing work in progress—the refining of ideas from generation to generation, adapting knowledge into daily life, forming a progressive paradigm. Yet here we are. The majority of people today are stranded in life. They find themselves: · Influenced · Lived (instead of living) · Controlled · Manipulated · Surrounded by the ideas of others So consumed are they by external voices that they lose the ability to focus on their own thoughts, their own ideas, their own lives. You were not born to merely survive. You were not born to be a vessel for someone else's vision. You were born to contribute your unique piece to this ongoing work of civilization. First, live—meet your needs, find your footing. Then, truly live—discover your purpose, nurture your ideas, and bring them into the world. The coin is still in the air. Which side will you choose to land on? What idea have you been neglecting? What thought have you buried beneath the noise of survival? Today might be the day to let it breathe. https://a.co/d/0dJqZ3x8https://

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 23–24 | Ephesians 1 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 23 Revival Through the Word of God 2 Kings 23 records one of the greatest seasons of spiritual reform in Judah's history under King Josiah. After hearing the Book of the Law and humbling himself before the Lord, Josiah immediately begins leading the nation back to covenant faithfulness. His response demonstrates that genuine revival always begins with God's Word and continues through obedient action. Josiah gathers the people and publicly renews the covenant before the Lord. He does not keep God's truth private but calls the entire nation to return to faithful worship. The king understands that spiritual renewal must involve both personal repentance and public obedience. The reforms that follow are comprehensive. Josiah removes idols, destroys pagan altars, eliminates false worship, and cleanses the temple. Nothing that competes with devotion to the Lord is left untouched. His actions reveal that true repentance is more than sorrow over sin—it involves turning away from everything that dishonors God. One of the most significant moments in the chapter is the restoration of the Passover. For generations, this central celebration of God's redeeming work had been neglected. By restoring it, Josiah calls the nation to remember God's covenant faithfulness and their identity as His redeemed people. Worship becomes centered once again on God's saving acts rather than human traditions. Yet despite Josiah's remarkable faithfulness, the chapter reminds us that the accumulated rebellion of previous generations has consequences. God delays His judgment because of Josiah's humility, but the coming exile will still occur. National reform, though sincere, cannot erase centuries of persistent rebellion. Josiah's death at the end of the chapter marks the conclusion of a bright season in Judah's history. His passing prepares the way for the nation's final decline. Nevertheless, his example remains a testimony of wholehearted devotion to the Lord. Theologically, 2 Kings 23 teaches that God's Word produces genuine repentance, which in turn leads to practical obedience. Revival is never merely emotional; it transforms worship, priorities, and daily living. The chapter also reveals that while God's mercy is abundant, sin carries consequences that cannot always be avoided. This chapter points to Christ, who fulfills the meaning of the Passover as the true Lamb of God. Josiah restored the celebration that pointed forward to Jesus, whose sacrifice would accomplish the ultimate redemption from sin. Christ brings the complete spiritual renewal that even Judah's greatest reforms could never fully achieve. For believers today, 2 Kings 23 reminds us that true revival begins when we humbly submit ourselves to God's Word. We are called to remove every idol from our hearts, renew our devotion to the Lord, and remember the redemption we have received through Christ. Genuine faith is demonstrated not merely by hearing God's truth but by obeying it wholeheartedly. 2 Kings 24 The Faithfulness of God in the Midst of Judgment 2 Kings 24 marks the beginning of Judah's final collapse before the Babylonian exile. After Josiah's death, a series of kings lead the nation back into rebellion against the Lord. Though prophets continue warning the people, they refuse to repent. The chapter records the fulfillment of what God had patiently declared for generations. Babylon rises to become the dominant world power, and Judah gradually falls under its control. Political alliances fail, military strength proves insufficient, and the nation experiences the consequences of years of covenant unfaithfulness. The writer emphasizes that these events are not simply the result of Babylon's military superiority but the outworking of God's righteous judgment. The chapter repeatedly points back to the sins of Manasseh and the persistent rebellion that followed him. Judah has consistently rejected God's Word, ignored His prophets, and embraced idolatry. The exile is therefore presented not as God's abandonment of His people but as His faithful response to His covenant warnings. King Jehoiakim rebels against Babylon despite God's clear purposes, bringing additional suffering upon the nation. His successors continue the same pattern of disobedience. Eventually, King Jehoiachin surrenders, and many of Judah's leaders, craftsmen, and treasures are carried away to Babylon. The exile has begun. Even in this difficult chapter, however, hope remains. God preserves the line of David by allowing Jehoiachin to live. Though the kingdom appears to have collapsed, God's covenant has not failed. His redemptive plan continues quietly through the preserved royal line, preparing the way for the coming Messiah. The chapter reminds us that God's judgment is always purposeful. His discipline is designed not to destroy His covenant but to purify His people and accomplish His larger redemptive purposes. Theologically, 2 Kings 24 reveals God's complete faithfulness. He fulfills both His promises of blessing and His warnings of judgment. The chapter also demonstrates that God's sovereign purposes continue even during seasons of loss, discipline, and apparent defeat. This chapter points to Christ, the faithful Son of David who remained obedient where Judah's kings repeatedly failed. Though the earthly kingdom entered exile, God's promise of an eternal King remained secure. Jesus fulfills that promise by establishing an everlasting kingdom that can never be conquered or carried away. For believers today, 2 Kings 24 reminds us that God's discipline flows from His faithfulness, not from His abandonment. Seasons of correction are opportunities to return to Him with humble hearts. In Christ, we have the assurance that even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain, God's redemptive purposes continue unfolding. Our hope is not found in earthly kingdoms or temporary security but in the eternal reign of Jesus Christ, whose kingdom will never end. Ephesians — The Riches of God's Grace in the Christ The book of Ephesians presents one of the fullest pictures of God's eternal redemptive plan through the Christ, the Son of God. It begins by revealing everything believers have received in Him and then shows how those spiritual blessings are to shape everyday Christian living. The first half of the letter focuses on doctrine—who believers are in the Christ. The second half focuses on practice—how believers are to live because they belong to Him. A central theme throughout the book is God's eternal purpose in the Christ. Before the foundation of the world, God established His plan to redeem a people for Himself through His Son. Every promise, every blessing, and every aspect of salvation finds its fulfillment in the Christ. The redemptive plan is not an afterthought but the unfolding of God's eternal purpose. Another major emphasis is the believer's identity. Those who trust in the Christ are forgiven, adopted into God's family, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and seated with the Christ in heavenly places. They are no longer defined by their past but by their relationship with the Son of God. The book also highlights the unity of the Church. Through the Christ, God has brought together people from every background into one body. Walls of division have been removed, and believers now share one faith, one hope, one Lord, and one Spirit. Christian living reflects this unity through love, humility, and mutual service. Ephesians also emphasizes spiritual growth. Believers are called to put away the old way of life and grow into the likeness of the Christ. They are strengthened by the Holy Spirit, equipped for ministry, and encouraged to walk in holiness, wisdom, and love. The letter concludes with the reality of spiritual warfare. The Christian life involves ongoing conflict, not against people, but against spiritual forces. Yet believers do not fight in their own strength. The Son of God provides everything necessary to stand firm through the armor of God and the power of His Spirit. For believers today, Ephesians reminds us that our identity, purpose, strength, and hope are all found in the Christ. Christian living flows from understanding who we are because of what the Son of God has accomplished. As we walk in His grace, grow in His love, and stand firm in His truth, we display the beauty of His eternal redemptive plan to the world. Ephesians 1 — Every Spiritual Blessing in the Christ Ephesians chapter 1 opens with a magnificent celebration of God's eternal plan of salvation through the Christ, the Son of God. Rather than beginning with human need, Paul begins with God's grace, showing that every aspect of salvation originates with Him. The chapter reveals the immeasurable spiritual riches believers possess because they are united with the Christ. Christian living begins by understanding what God has already accomplished through His Son. The chapter begins by praising God for every spiritual blessing given through the Christ. These blessings are not earned through human effort but freely given by God's grace. The redemptive plan begins with God's initiative, not humanity's achievement. Every blessing believers enjoy flows from their relationship with the Son of God. Paul explains that God's purpose was established before the foundation of the world. Long before humanity fell into sin, God had already planned redemption through the Christ. This demonstrates the certainty and sovereignty of His redemptive plan. The Son of God did not come as a response to an unexpected problem but as the fulfillment of God's eternal purpose to redeem a people for Himself. The chapter then describes the privilege of adoption. Through the Christ, believers are brought into God's family as sons and daughters. This new relationship is based entirely upon God's love and grace. Christian living flows from the security of belonging to the Father through the Son. The believer no longer approaches God as a stranger but as a beloved child. Paul also emphasizes redemption through the blood of the Christ. Forgiveness is possible because the Son of God willingly gave Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. Every debt has been paid, every sin forgiven, and every barrier between God and humanity removed through His finished work. The redemptive plan reaches its fulfillment in the sacrifice of the Christ. Another major theme is God's purpose to bring everything together under the authority of the Christ. History is moving toward the complete fulfillment of His kingdom. The Son of God reigns over all creation, and every promise God has made will ultimately find its completion in Him. Christian living is therefore marked by hope and confidence because believers know that God's purposes cannot fail. The chapter also highlights the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Those who believe in the Christ are sealed with the Spirit as God's own possession. The Holy Spirit serves as the guarantee of the inheritance awaiting believers. This assurance provides confidence that God's redemptive plan will be completed exactly as He has promised. Paul then prays that believers would grow in spiritual understanding. He desires that they know the hope of God's calling, the riches of their inheritance, and the greatness of His power. Christian living is strengthened as believers continually grow in their knowledge of the Son of God and understand the incredible blessings already given to them through Him. The chapter concludes by declaring the supreme authority of the Christ. God has exalted His Son above every ruler, authority, power, and dominion. The Church is described as His body, living under His headship and displaying His presence in the world. The redemptive plan reaches beyond individual salvation to the creation of a people who live under the lordship of the Christ and proclaim His glory. Throughout Ephesians chapter 1, the Christ stands at the center of every spiritual blessing. He is the source of election, adoption, redemption, forgiveness, inheritance, and eternal hope. Everything God has planned and accomplished is found in His beloved Son. For believers today, this chapter reminds us to begin our Christian lives by focusing on what God has already done through the Christ. Christian living is not driven by fear or striving but by gratitude for His abundant grace. We are called to live as God's adopted children, secure in His love, confident in His promises, and empowered by His Spirit. As we grow in our understanding of the Son of God, we increasingly reflect His glory and participate in His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

A NUGGET OF TRUTH God’s moral law was never intended to define sin for Israel alone. Paul states plainly: “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law… these… shew the work of the law written in their hearts.” —Romans 2:14–15 Gentiles could be judged as sinners because the moral standard of God applied to them also. Paul adds: “For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law… for not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.” —Romans 2:12–13 The law reveals sin: “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” —Romans 3:20 And sin is not limited to Jews: “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” —Romans 3:23 The same God justifies both Jew and Gentile through faith: “Is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also.” —Romans 3:29 And that faith does not abolish His law: “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.” —Romans 3:31 The New Testament therefore presents one God, one definition of sin, one gospel, one Saviour, and one moral standard for humanity. Salvation is not earned by obedience. It is received by grace through faith. But the faith that saves does not erase God’s law—it writes His law upon the heart and produces obedience. One Saviour. One Gospel. One Moral Law. One way of salvation for Jew and Gentile.

✝️ THE GOSPEL FROM CALVARY 📅 Monday, 24th August, 2026 🔥 COME TO JESUS AND DRINK! 💧✝️ 📜 TEXT: JOHN 7:1–53 📜 🔑📖 KEY VERSE: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” — John 7:37 (KJV)» John 7 reveals Jesus ministering in the midst of opposition, unbelief, confusion, and division. People had different opinions about Him. Some questioned His identity. Others criticized Him. Some wanted to arrest Him. Yet Jesus continued to teach and proclaim the truth. Then, on the final and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.”» This was more than an invitation for physical water. Jesus was speaking to the deepest thirst of the human heart. The world cannot satisfy the soul. Only Jesus can. ❤️‍🔥 🔥 THREE LESSONS FROM JOHN 7 1️⃣ COME TO JESUS WHEN YOUR SOUL IS THIRSTY. 💧 Jesus said: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” — John 7:37» Everyone experiences a thirst that material things cannot satisfy. You may have money and still be empty. You may have friends and still feel lonely. You may have success and still lack peace. You may have possessions and still desire something more. The soul was created for God. Therefore, don't try to satisfy a spiritual thirst with worldly things. Come to Jesus. He gives peace to the troubled heart. He gives hope to the discouraged. He gives forgiveness to the sinner. He gives purpose to the lost. He gives eternal life to those who believe. ✝️ 🕊️ 2️⃣ THE HOLY SPIRIT FLOWS FROM A LIFE CONNECTED TO CHRIST. 🔥 John 7:38–39 says: «“He that believeth on me... out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”» John explains that Jesus was speaking about the Holy Spirit. God does not want us merely to receive His blessing; He wants His life to flow through us to others. You should not be a container that only receives. You should become a channel that gives. Receive God's love—and show it. Receive His grace—and extend it. Receive His Word—and share it. Receive His comfort—and comfort others. Receive the Gospel—and preach it. A life filled with Christ should become a blessing to others. 🌍🔥 ⚠️ 3️⃣ DON'T ALLOW PEOPLE'S OPINIONS TO KEEP YOU FROM JESUS. John 7 is filled with different opinions about Jesus. Some said He was a good man. Others said He deceived people. Some recognized that He was the Christ. Others questioned where He came from. Even among the people, there was division because of Him. This reminds us that people will always have opinions about Jesus. But your salvation cannot be based on people's opinions. You must personally know Christ. Don't reject Jesus because someone else rejected Him. Don't abandon your faith because someone mocks you. Don't compromise because you want people's approval. Know whom you believe. ❤️‍🔥 📖 SEARCH THE WORD FOR YOURSELF The people questioned Jesus' teaching because they were unfamiliar with His authority. Jesus said: «“My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.” — John 7:16» This teaches us the importance of knowing God's Word. Don't build your faith solely on what someone tells you. Study Scripture. Pray for understanding. Test what you hear. Know the truth. A believer who knows God's Word is less likely to be carried away by deception. Don't just hear the Word—search it, understand it, and live it. 📖🔥 ❤️‍🔥 JESUS CAN SATISFY WHAT THE WORLD CANNOT There is a thirst inside humanity that money cannot quench. The Samaritan woman in John 4 needed Living Water. The crowd in John 6 needed the Bread of Life. And in John 7, Jesus again offers Himself as the One who satisfies the thirsty soul. The message is consistent: JESUS IS ENOUGH. When you have Christ, you have the greatest treasure. When everything else changes, Christ remains. When people leave, Christ remains. When circumstances become difficult, Christ remains. When the world cannot answer your questions, Christ remains. Come to Jesus and drink. 💧✝️ 🔥 LET THE RIVERS FLOW THROUGH YOU Jesus did not say that the living water would remain stagnant. He said: «“Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”» A river flows. Therefore, don't keep your Christianity hidden. Let your faith be visible. Let your kindness speak. Let your character testify. Let your words carry grace. Let your life preach Christ. Someone around you may be spiritually thirsty. Your testimony may encourage them. Your prayer may strengthen them. Your invitation may bring them to church. Your witness may lead them to salvation. Let the living water flow! 🌊🔥 ✝️ JESUS WILL ALWAYS BRING A DECISION John 7 shows that people were divided because of Jesus. Some believed. Some doubted. Some opposed Him. Some wanted to arrest Him. Jesus still demands a response today. You cannot remain neutral forever. The question is not merely: “What do people say about Jesus?” The question is: “WHO IS JESUS TO YOU?” Is He your Saviour? Is He your Lord? Is He your King? Are you following Him? Are you obeying His Word? ✍🏽 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The world offers temporary satisfaction, but Jesus offers Living Water that becomes a river within us. Come to Him, drink deeply, and let His life flow through you. 💧🔥✝️ 🙏🏽 PRAYER Heavenly Father, Thank You for giving us Jesus Christ, the source of Living Water. Lord Jesus, I come to You with every thirst, emptiness, weakness, and need in my heart. Fill me with Your presence and satisfy my soul with what only You can provide. Holy Spirit, work deeply within me. Let rivers of living water flow through my life. Help me not to be controlled by the opinions of people. Give me courage to stand for Christ even when others reject or misunderstand Him. Give me a deeper hunger for Your Word and greater understanding of Your truth. Use my life as a channel of Your love, grace, and Gospel. Let someone encounter Jesus because of my words, actions, and testimony. May I never look to the world for what only Christ can provide. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. 🙏🏽🔥 📜 THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALMS 94–96 📖 ✝️ THE CALVARY MINISTRY ONLINE Birthright is Evangelism

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 21–22 | Galatians 6 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 21 The Depth of Sin and the Patience of God 2 Kings 21 records one of the darkest chapters in Judah's history through the reign of King Manasseh. Unlike his father Hezekiah, who led the nation in spiritual reform, Manasseh reverses nearly every godly change that had been made. He rebuilds the high places, promotes idol worship, practices occult activities, and even places pagan altars within the temple itself. Judah sinks into spiritual corruption unlike anything seen before. The tragedy of Manasseh's reign is not simply that he sins personally, but that he leads an entire nation into greater rebellion. Leadership always carries influence. The king's decisions shape the spiritual direction of the people, and under Manasseh the nation becomes more corrupt than the pagan nations God had originally driven out of the land. Despite such widespread wickedness, God continues speaking through His prophets. He warns Judah repeatedly, calling the people to repentance before judgment comes. Yet the nation refuses to listen. God's patience is extraordinary, but His warnings are not ignored forever. The Lord announces that judgment upon Jerusalem has become inevitable because of persistent and deliberate rebellion. After Manasseh's death, his son Amon continues the same sinful pattern. Rather than learning from the consequences of his father's rebellion, he deepens the nation's decline. His reign is brief, ending through violence, further illustrating the instability that sin produces. Although this chapter emphasizes judgment, it also quietly reveals God's faithfulness. The covenant with David remains intact. Even in the midst of overwhelming darkness, God's redemptive plan continues moving toward the coming Messiah. Human sin cannot overturn divine promises. Theologically, 2 Kings 21 reveals both the seriousness of sin and the remarkable patience of God. Persistent rebellion hardens the heart and eventually brings judgment, yet God's repeated warnings demonstrate His desire that people would repent rather than perish. This chapter points to Christ, who came to bear the judgment that humanity deserved. Where Manasseh filled the land with sin, Jesus came to cleanse sinners through His sacrificial death. The darkness of human rebellion only magnifies the greatness of God's redeeming grace revealed in Christ. For believers today, 2 Kings 21 reminds us never to underestimate the influence of our choices. Sin tolerated today often becomes greater compromise tomorrow. Yet it also reminds us that God's patience is an invitation to repentance. In Christ, forgiveness is available for every repentant heart, and His grace is greater than even the darkest chapters of our lives. 2 Kings 22 Rediscovering God's Word 2 Kings 22 introduces the reign of Josiah, one of Judah's most faithful kings. Coming to the throne as a young boy after generations of spiritual decline, Josiah demonstrates that age does not limit God's ability to use someone who seeks Him wholeheartedly. From the beginning of his reign, he desires to honor the Lord and restore proper worship. As repairs begin on the temple, an extraordinary discovery is made. The Book of the Law is found after having been neglected for many years. The fact that God's Word had been lost within God's own house reveals how far the nation had drifted. Religious activity had continued, but the authority of Scripture had been forgotten. When the book is read to Josiah, his response is immediate and profound. Rather than defending himself or ignoring what he hears, he humbles himself before the Lord. He tears his clothes in grief, recognizing that the nation has failed to obey God's covenant. His heart is broken not merely because judgment has been announced, but because God's people have wandered so far from His truth. Josiah seeks the Lord through the prophetess Huldah, who confirms that God's judgment upon Judah will indeed come because of generations of rebellion. Yet because Josiah humbled himself and responded with genuine repentance, God promises that the coming judgment will not occur during his lifetime. The king experiences God's mercy because he responds to God's Word with humility rather than resistance. The chapter demonstrates that true revival always begins with the rediscovery of God's Word. Spiritual renewal is not produced by emotion or tradition alone but by humble submission to the truth God has revealed. Theologically, 2 Kings 22 teaches that God's Word possesses the power to expose sin, awaken repentance, and lead people back to faithful obedience. It also reveals that God honors humble hearts. While His justice remains certain, His mercy is extended to those who genuinely repent. This chapter points directly to Christ, the living Word of God. Just as the rediscovered Book of the Law brought conviction and renewal, Jesus brings truth, exposes sin, and offers forgiveness to all who come to Him in repentance and faith. He fulfills the Law completely and invites believers into a restored relationship with the Father. For believers today, 2 Kings 22 reminds us that spiritual renewal always begins with God's Word. It is possible to maintain religious routines while neglecting the authority of Scripture. In Christ, we are called to approach God's Word with humility, allowing it to shape our hearts, expose areas needing repentance, and lead us into deeper obedience. When God's people return to His truth, genuine revival begins. Galatians 6 — Living Out the Freedom of the Christ Galatians chapter 6 concludes Paul's letter by showing what life looks like when believers truly understand the gospel of grace. After teaching that salvation is by faith and that believers are called to walk by the Spirit, Paul now demonstrates how these truths are lived out in daily relationships and faithful service. The redemptive plan of the Christ, the Son of God, produces a life marked by humility, compassion, perseverance, and a continual focus on the cross. The chapter begins by instructing believers to restore those who have fallen into sin with gentleness and humility. The goal is never condemnation but restoration. This reflects the heart of the Christ, who came to seek and restore the broken. Christian living requires believers to care for one another while remaining aware of their own need for God's grace. The Son of God calls His people to be instruments of healing rather than harsh judgment. Paul then encourages believers to bear one another's burdens. This command reflects the love of the Christ, who carried the greatest burden of all through His sacrifice on the cross. The redemptive plan creates a community where believers support, encourage, and strengthen one another through life's difficulties. Christian living is never isolated or self-centered but is lived within the fellowship of God's family. At the same time, Paul reminds believers that each person is responsible for faithfully carrying the responsibilities God has entrusted to them. These two truths complement one another. Believers are called both to help others with overwhelming burdens and to faithfully fulfill their own daily responsibilities before the Lord. The Son of God calls His followers to lives of personal faithfulness combined with compassionate service. The chapter introduces the principle of sowing and reaping. Every decision and every action produces consequences. Those who continually invest in sinful desires reap spiritual destruction, while those who continually invest in the things of the Spirit reap eternal blessings. This is not a teaching of salvation by works but a reminder that Christian living produces visible fruit. The redemptive plan transforms believers so that their lives increasingly reflect the character of the Christ. Paul encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good. Faithful obedience often requires perseverance because the harvest is not always immediate. The Son of God calls His people to continue serving faithfully, trusting that God will bring fruit in His perfect timing. Christian living requires patience, endurance, and confidence that every act of obedience matters within God's eternal purposes. Another important emphasis is doing good to everyone, especially to fellow believers. The love of the Christ is never limited to words alone but expresses itself through practical acts of kindness, generosity, and service. The redemptive plan changes the priorities of God's people, leading them to seek opportunities to bless others as they have first been blessed by the Son of God. As Paul concludes the letter, he once again contrasts those who boast in religious performance with those who boast only in the cross of the Christ. The false teachers sought recognition through outward religious achievements, but Paul points entirely to the cross. Everything necessary for salvation has been accomplished through the Son of God. Christian living begins and ends with gratitude for His finished work rather than confidence in personal accomplishment. The chapter closes by declaring that what truly matters is the new creation brought about through the Christ. Outward religious distinctions cannot produce spiritual life. Only the redemptive plan accomplished by the Son of God can transform the human heart. Those who belong to Him have become new creations, and their lives now reflect His grace rather than their own efforts. Throughout Galatians chapter 6, the Christ remains the center of the believer's life. His cross provides salvation, His Spirit produces transformation, and His grace empowers faithful service. The redemptive plan creates a people who love one another, persevere in doing good, and live for His glory alone. For believers today, this chapter reminds us that true Christian living is the practical outworking of the gospel. We are called to restore the fallen with gentleness, carry one another's burdens, faithfully fulfill our own responsibilities, and never grow weary in serving the Lord. Our confidence rests entirely in the cross of the Christ, not in ourselves. As we walk by the Spirit and continue sowing lives of faithfulness, love, and obedience, we demonstrate the transforming power of the Son of God and participate in His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

❤️WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER? Part 1 of 2. I would like to address one of the most puzzling and perplexing problems confronting the Christian today and that is why do the righteous suffer? In order to deal with this adequately, we're going to be looking at the book of Job. We read in Job Chapter 1:1f There was a man in the Land of Oz whose name is Job and that man was perfect and upright and one that feared God and turned away from evil. We continue to read in the book of Job how he lost everything, his family, his property, his possessions, and then lost his health with a loathsome disease. The universal problem of whether or not suffering is a sign of divine displeasure, and thus presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer, is the theme of the book of Job. The central problem of the book of Job is the central problem of humanity. Why do men suffer the way they do, and especially, why do the righteous suffer? Why are not godly, righteous, faithful obedient men and women always blessed? Why does it seem many of the ungodly prosper and are never in trouble? A Christian wonders why must I suffer this or that, or why must I go through this trial, or why do I have to experience all of this pain and adversity? I'm a Christian, I study the Bible, I love the Lord. I feel that I'm obedient, so why do I go through such long trials, hardships, and personal attacks? To make things even worse, many times there is no immediate answer and it's a real test of your faith as with Job. Is all adversity and suffering the direct result of sin? What is the basis upon which prosperity and adversity, blessing and misfortune, affliction and health happen to people? What is the basis upon which these things are distributed to men in this life? The principal aim of the book of Job is to disprove the popular theory that was held by many of the Jews and it's still popular today, that all suffering is a sign of God's displeasure and presupposes sin on the part of the sufferer. Inseparably related to the problem of suffering is the greater problem of evil and to consider one necessitates the consideration of the other. The problem of evil results from the clear fact that within the world that God created good according to Genesis 1, it was created very good! Within this world that God created good there is much that is now imperfect. It has become a world of suffering, sin, hate, warfare, oppression, evil and death. Now even a superficial observer will note that these two facts present somewhat of a dilemma. On the one hand Genesis 1 shows that God created all things good and he hates evil. On the other hand, we've seen the widespread evil and suffering that's in this world of imperfection. Now how can we explain this: what has happened? Some suggest that either God cannot remove evil nor could he have prevented its entrance into his world. Others say God does not will to prevent it and did not will to prevent its entrance into the Garden of Eden. Now the first conclusion will be rejected by all who believe in the Sovereign God of the Bible but neither is the second alternative any help in solving the apparent dilemma. It doesn't give us a satisfactory solution and so believers and Christians have always sought a third alternative to explain the problem of evil in a good universe. Now the book of Job is in reality the source material for a study of some of the most profound theological questions of the Bible- the problem of the righteous suffering adversity and the meaning of the presence of evil in a world God created good. It gives us the source of sickness and adversity. It's not God as some think and is often implied today. It's Satan who is behind the scenes doing this. No book in the Bible gives more insight into the problem of why the righteous suffer and the meaning and purpose of evil in the world. Now we will examine that question. There are three basic solutions that have been given to the problem of evil. First there's a denial of its existence. We're told all evil is only an illusion. This is fundamentally the doctrinal position of the Christian Scientists. All evil experienced, meaning sin, suffering, pain, and the like are purely subjective, existing only in the mind of the observer. They have no objective reality. Christian science teaches that since God is good, he could not permit evil to exist and therefore evil is not real. Suffering, evil, sin, and Satan and death are the imagination of man's finite mind. They're only an illusion. They have no reality and would disappear if man would by faith and self-discipline deny their existence. Of course, the objections to this hypothesis are almost self-evident. Even if this hypothesis were accepted as valid, which it isn't, one is still faced with the question of how the appearance of evil and suffering is to be explained. I mean what's the origin and meaning of the illusion of pain and suffering and death? The illusion of pain and suffering is as real to the sufferer as real pain and suffering. A world in which the majority of its inhabitants are deceived with respect to the presence of suffering needs as much explaining as one in which evil is a genuine reality. It doesn't solve the problem, it only changes the terminology from reality to illusion. The suffering and the evil remain. It is quite obvious that this view is unbiblical and is out of harmony with the facts of experience. I mean Christian Scientists yell just as loudly as anyone else when they mashed their finger with a hammer. They go right on dying like the rest of humanity. Another suggested solution is the error is finitism. We're told God's power is limited. The doctrine of the finite God is the solution that we must choose, we are told. The fact that God is not completely good and that he is not omnipotent is an unscriptural attempt to explain the presence of moral and natural evil. The limitation doctrine argues that God made the best kind of world that he could but that even God could not prevent the presence of evil. Finitism, we are told, preserves the goodness of God and recognizes that God is not the source of all things. He is the source of all that is good and He is an opposition to all that is evil. Finitism seems to be a solution to some people. But again, this theory is unbiblical. The doctrine of a finite God cannot stand in view of the testimony of Scripture. See Daniel 4:35 Jeremiah 32:17, Matthew 19:26, Romans 9, Job 1 and 2. We're told that God is in control of all events and governments in heaven and earth. Nothing is too hard for God and with God nothing is impossible. As we read Job chapters 1 & 2 we see that Satan had to get God's permission to afflict Job. The concept of an eternal principle of evil against which God is engaged in some cosmic struggle and the outcome of which is by no means certain is platonic dualism pure and simple. It's not Biblical. The doctrine of finitism is no solution at all to the problem but simply a sophisticated shortcut to avoid what appears to be a dilemma. It results from the fallacy that one must either give up the goodness of God or His omnipotence and power since there appears to be an alleged conflict. The only solution seems to be to sacrifice his omnipotence according to this unscriptural view. Now a third solution which we believe to be the biblical one, is that a moral world involves the possibility of evil. In a moral universe of free creatures, the possibility of moral development involves the possibility of the entrance of moral evil and its consequences into the world. For example, we see in the narratives of Genesis that God did not intend to compel moral obedience, but that a holy moral character could only be developed by voluntary free choice on Adam's part. Hence, a world without the possibility of disobeying God would not present the necessary means of developing moral character. Adam was not born with a holy moral character, but he was innocent. He was pure, but you're not born with character. This must develop and grow as you respond to the experiences of life. Trials, adversities, and so forth are designed to shape one's character. Someone has pointed out that these sufferings sometimes crush the person who experiences it. There are times when the final result is more glorious than would be conceivable in any other kind of universe. Therefore, this view does give us a workable solution to the problem of evil and helps explain the purpose of suffering. It is the suffering of the righteous and the allowance of the entrance of sin into the world. This view involves a possibility of the entrance of evil and also helps explain God's self-imposed limitations. Now those terms are important. We see God is presented in Scripture as omnipotent and all-powerful. But it is also true that, at the moment He created something outside himself, man who is a free moral creature, who could have the power at least temporarily to say no to God, that there was to some degree a self-imposed limitation which God placed upon Himself. This does not mean that God has limited His sovereignty, power, or His rule by creating a being in his own image who had the power to rebel against him. But it does mean that God chose to exercise his sovereignty in a universe filled with creatures who could temporarily rebel against that sovereignty. Notice it's only temporary, and so we see a moral world involves the possibility of the entrance and presence of moral evil. This brings us to the basic question that we're going to discuss. The perplexing problem of why the righteous suffer and biblical solutions. It's not unusual that trials and sufferings of the child of God may involve several purposes. We shall explore these next. Part 2.) First, we see that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We will see from this study that the righteous suffering trial and affliction is not always evidence that they have sinned or evidence that God is displeased with them. There may be some deeper purpose in God allowing it and that is to bring them into conformity to the image of Jesus Christ. Examining these purposes is necessary because the Christian goes through trials and sufferings of many kinds. Therefore, they need to know whether or not these are chastisements, are things to be resisted as from the devil, or if these things are from the hand of God! This way we will not be resisting when we should be submitting so we will benefit from our trials and testings. We mentioned that trials and sufferings have an educational purpose. We see Job's misfortunes and sufferings at first of all as a teaching and educational purpose. We see spiritual wisdom and discernment do not automatically come to the believer but they are gained through the times of hardship and suffering and of trial and testing. Job learned the meaning of an abiding faith in God. He received an education along the line of an abiding and steadfast faith. See chapter 13 in verses 15-18. Job said though he slay me yet will I trust him. He came to know what genuine faith was and he was willing to trust God in spite of circumstances and appearances. He came to know in a more meaningful way God as his Redeemer in chapter 19. He has come through a great valley of testing and trial and affliction and there's one thing he says. I don't understand all of this, but I do know my redeemer lives and then he became confident in his future of vindication. We see that in chapter 9 verses 32-35, chapter 16 verse 19, chapter 13 verse 18. He said I know that I will be justified and this suffering of mine is not the result of sin, but I will be vindicated. Almost beside himself from grief and suffering, he came into a deeper assurance of a future life beyond the grave and this present world of inequality, injustice, and affliction. He came into a deeper understanding of the sovereignty of God. In chapters 38 to 41 where the Lord addresses him in two discourses of speeches, Job said, I've heard of You in the hearing of the ear and now my eye has seen You. I abhor myself and I repent in dust and in ashes. He said, I lay my hand over my mouth and I'll not speak again. I've spoken once, I've spoken twice but now, he says I'll not speak again. God revealed to him his sovereignty. God doesn't answer job's perplexities or questions. He just reminds him that He is God and that whatever he does is righteous. So, the educational purpose and significance of suffering is evident throughout the Bible especially in the book of Job as Job progressively moves from one valley of doubt and mystery to another. Each time climbing to a mountain peak of faith as he conquers his fears and his doubts and he comes to a new understanding and appreciation of the promises of God. The meaning of suffering is first and foremost of all for the express purpose of developing within the heart of the saint the assurance and understanding of his trust in God. In psalm 119 verses 65-72. The psalmist said there that he praises the Lord for afflicting him because then he came to know how to obey the Lord as he should. He said I thank You for the correction of my affliction because now I've come to understand better how to obey your precepts and your law. Our trials and tests, persecutions and the like have an educational purpose. When Jesus saves you, he sends you to His school. That is the school of the trial of your faith. Sadly, most Christians have not been taught this. They do not profit from their lessons so they keep taking the same course over and over. This is because they're flunking the tests. They've not been taught to submit to the trials but instead resist them. They think trials are something to be avoided at all costs. The Bible says we are to rejoice in our trials, James 1, because it is working in us the steadfast endurance we need to mature. Jesus told us that trials are to be a cause of rejoicing in Matthew 5, because when we're persecuted he said, rejoice because great is your reward in heaven. We are not to resist these things. Again, in Acts 14:22, for we must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. If you're trying to get off the pathway of trial and if you're trying to get out of that school, then you are on the wrong path. Realize you will not be able to graduate because you're flunking the course or you become a spiritual dropout from the school of the trial of your faith. Trials and sufferings are designed by God because He loves you and desires to educate you in an abiding faith in knowing that He is able to deliver and protect you keeping you to the end. You come to trust Him in spite of circumstances as Job. You come to the place where you can say though He slay me yet will I trust Him. That doesn't make any sense to your head or your intellect, but if you stay in God's school and learn your lessons as you should, it will make sense to your spirit and to your heart. Trials and sufferings of the believer for righteousness' sake have an educational purpose. Stay in God's school long enough for him to teach you something and you'll find you'll be blessed for it with a mature faith and trust in the plans and purposes of God in your life! Part 3.) Next, we see that sometimes sufferings and trials have a punitive purpose. This is the solution, by the way, to the problem suggested by Job's friends. You'll notice this as you read the book and although it is by no means the whole answer, yet it does have its place in the total picture. This is the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7 - for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap. There are natural consequences of sin and so sometimes trials and sufferings have a punitive purpose. Punitive means punishment. Some of these things we endure and suffer are because we've not heeded the law of sowing and reaping Galatians 6:7. We see this throughout the Bible that this works for the saint as well as the sinner. We have to obey this law. If we don't sow to the Spirit and sow to the flesh, we're going to reap the consequences. We see this in the case of David. He had to reap what he sowed in his sin with Bathsheba. We read the sword never departed from his house, although he did receive forgiveness. We also see this in the New Testament in 1st Corinthians 5 and 1st Corinthians 11. Some of the Christians were not partaking of the communion the Lord's Supper as they should. Therefore, Paul says you don't discern the Lord's body, you're not eating this supper worthily, and therefore some of you are sick and some of you are dying prematurely. This is the law of sowing and reaping. For example, if a Christian girl allows herself to get into trouble and becomes pregnant, she may repent of that sin and be forgiven but she'll still suffer the stigma of bearing an illegitimate child. She's still going to suffer the consequences of what she sowed, for whatsoever you sow you reap. Galatians 6:7. So there's no way to get around the fact that you're going to reap what you sow. This is why sometimes we suffer trials and afflictions. We should examine our lives to see whether or not God is judging us because of something we have disobeyed him about or not getting our lives corrected about some matter. Now what's the significance of Job's suffering in relation to the punitive purpose? Remember this is the suggested solution of Job's three friends. The principle upon which all suffering is based they said is this- that suffering is a direct result of sin and a just recompense for it. Job's sufferings, they insisted, were a sign of divine displeasure and presupposed sin on his part. Now of course the Bible does set forth this principle. It's the law of sowing and reaping where righteousness will bring prosperity and blessing, disobedience and wickedness will bring adversity. This is a principle set forth throughout the Bible as Deuteronomy 28 which is a good example of that. Psalm 1 is another example. But what of the righteous individual who often is the victim of misfortune and suffering, and why so often do the ungodly seem to prosper? What's the explanation for the suffering of the innocent and the prosperity of the wicked? Was the popular notion that the innocent do not suffer and the wicked are always afflicted contrary to the facts, even as Bildad and Zophar dogmatically insisted it was true? They insisted the principle was immutable and that Job, though outwardly righteous, nevertheless must be guilty of some heinous secret sins. Their philosophy was this, that all sin causes suffering. Job is suffering. The conclusion, Job must be a sinner! Job's sufferings, they argue, convict him implicitly of some grave sin and they plead with him to acknowledge it and repent. Job protests his innocence throughout the book and so we still are faced with the perplexing question. Why then is Job suffering? Remember he didn't have chapters 1 and 2 which give us the explanation. He had to endure this experience before the answer came. What then is the explanation for those instances which seemed by the Scriptures, show the moral principle of cause and effect, sowing and reaping, that they could not always be forced into a neat logical system? The laws governing society did not guarantee that in some individual cases the innocent might not suffer and that wickedness might not elude temporary judgment. No, throughout the scriptures we see that suffering is not necessarily the direct result of prior sins. This is proven in many passages as Jeremiah 19, Ezekiel 21, Amos chapter 2, In John 9, the case of the blind man, Jesus said this man was not blind because of his parent's sin or his own sin but that God might be glorified in his healing. So, also, in the case of Job, we see he suffered innocently. What the Scriptures do teach is this - that in the light of eternity it is the righteous who will be blessed and the wicked who will suffer. We should not judge too soon. The conclusion is this, suffering and adversity may sometimes be the result of sin and therefore the purpose is punitive, but this is not always the case. Don't follow Job's friends' rigid thinking in condemning someone when you do not have all the facts. Part 4.) Sometimes trials and suffering have a disciplinary purpose. There are times afflictions are the chastisements of a loving Father. This is in harmony with Hebrews 12, 1st Corinthians 5, 1st Corinthians 11 and proverbs 3 verses 11-12. Who the Lord loves He chastens. The Scriptures tell us in Job chapter 33, that God speaks to man and the purpose for that is he may withdraw man from his purpose and hide pride from man. He keeps back his soul from the pit and his life from perishing by the sword. He is chastened also with pain upon his bed and the multitude of his bones with strong pain. God chastens his children because he doesn't want His children going on a path of destruction from disobedience to His Word and will for their lives. We read in Hebrews 12 that who the Lord loves He chastens and He scourges every son He receives. Job 33 speaks of one form of chastisement being sickness. In Hebrews 12 it doesn't say anything about sickness being a form of chastisement. God has many ways to chasten His children. Sometimes he just withholds his blessings. Testing has a way of humbling man's pride. You see, many of Job's utterances under the weight of his afflictions gave indication that his trials had not yet fully accomplished their purpose. You will see this as you read the book of Job. Job sometimes questions God's purposes and in his questioning of God's purpose and his control of human affairs, it implied that Job knew more than God. Sometimes Christians, under the weight of their trials and afflictions, will cry out to God in such a way and try to use their logic and reason to such an extent that they even question God's wisdom in allowing them the trials and afflictions. To be Continued. Edited. Shared. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.

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This is my very first book to be published soon: Preface For generations, humanity has accepted without question the idea that Jehovah is the Supreme and Ultimate Being — the beginning and the end of all existence. Religions have been built upon this belief, civilizations shaped by it, and billions have worshipped under its shadow. Yet throughout history, some questions have remained unanswered, buried beneath doctrine, fear, and tradition. This book was born from one such question: *What if Jehovah Himself is not the Highest Authority?* What if beyond the God humanity has known, there exists a Greater Source — a Father above God? At first glance, such a suggestion may sound shocking, even offensive to many. But every major discovery in human history began with a question people were afraid to ask. This book does not seek to attack faith, destroy belief, or mock religion. Instead, it seeks to examine Scripture, logic, justice, and the events recorded from the very beginning of human existence with honesty and courage. The foundation of this argument begins in the Garden of Eden. If Jehovah possessed absolute wisdom, absolute justice, and absolute power as traditionally believed, why was humanity condemned through Adam in a way that affected every generation after him? Why would descendants inherit suffering for a choice they never made? Why would an all-powerful being allow sin to spread endlessly instead of resolving the matter directly with Adam and Eve alone? Could it be that the events in Eden reveal limitations, laws, or higher authorities beyond Jehovah Himself? Throughout this book, we will explore difficult and uncomfortable questions that many avoid: * Was the punishment in Eden truly just? * Why does suffering continue despite divine power? * Why do Scriptures sometimes hint at beings greater than the God mankind worships? * Could the title “God” itself imply authority granted from a higher source? * Did Jesus Himself suggest the existence of a reality beyond human understanding of God? This work is not written from hatred toward religion, but from a deep desire to search for truth wherever it may lead. Truth has never feared investigation. Only deception demands silence. The purpose of this book is not to force conclusions upon the reader, but to invite critical thought, reflection, and fearless examination. Whether one ultimately agrees or disagrees with these ideas, the journey itself may challenge long-held assumptions and open doors to deeper understanding. Some readers may reject these pages immediately. Others may find themselves wrestling with questions they have secretly carried for years. Either response is understandable. But if there truly exists a Father above God, then perhaps humanity’s understanding of divine reality has only scratched the surface. And perhaps the greatest mystery is not whether God exists… …but whether God Himself has a Father.