The Advent Truth. John 13:34 is one of the most misunderstood verses in Scripture. Many claim Jesus replaced the Ten Commandments with one new command: “Love one another.” But is that what He actually said? First, loving your neighbor wasn’t new. Leviticus 19:18 had already commanded God’s people, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Jesus said, “As I have loved you.” He was calling His followers to the self-sacrificing, cross-centered love that He Himself demonstrated. The command wasn’t replacing God’s law—it was revealing its fullest expression. In Matthew 22:36-40, Jesus summarized the law with two great commandments. But notice where He quoted them from. “Love the Lord thy God” comes from Deuteronomy 6:5, and “Love thy neighbour as thyself” comes from Leviticus 19:18. The context of both passages is obedience to God’s commandments. Deuteronomy 6 follows the repetition of the Ten Commandments in chapter 5, while Leviticus 19 repeatedly calls Israel to keep God’s statutes and includes commands that reflect the second table of the Decalogue. Jesus wasn’t replacing the Ten Commandments—He was summarizing them. What does loving God look like? Worship Him alone. Don’t make idols. Honor His name. Remember His Sabbath. What does loving your neighbor look like? Honor your parents. Don’t murder. Don’t commit adultery. Don’t steal. Don’t lie. Don’t covet. Paul agreed. In Romans 13:8-10 he quoted commandments against adultery, murder, theft, and coveting before concluding, “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” John agreed too. The same apostle who recorded John 13:34 later wrote, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments” (1 John 5:3). The Bible never pits love against obedience. It unites them. The world says, “Just love.” Jesus says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15) It’s not my opinion, it’s the Advent Truth.

LOST IN THE CHURCH: [BEING LOST IN CHURCH] Part Six Idolatry in the House of God Many have interpreted the word idol from the perspective of the Old Covenant, an era in which the main emphasis was on the physical. But now, the Lord is seeking people who will worship Him in spirit. Therefore, the most dangerous and difficult idol—not one made of iron, stone, or wood—is the one that can be carved within a person’s heart or spirit. An IDOL can be anything that takes the place of God within a person. The first commandment the Lord gave us is to love Him above everything else. Therefore, whatever you can love more than you love God becomes an idol to you. Furthermore, the Lord has warned us not to fear anything more than Him (Matthew 10:28), and not to place our faith, hope, or dependence on anything except Him. By this reasoning, whatever you give those places in your life becomes an idol that you have carved within your own heart. Scripture is clear that those who worship idols will have their part in the lake of fire, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8). In these last days, many people have become lost in Church by worshipping things that are close to the Lord, or things that have been called by His name, thinking that by doing so they are worshipping the Lord Himself! Some of the things people have come to worship—and many of you may be surprised when I mention them—include worship services, the Church, the mother of Jesus, servants of God, angels, the Word of God, prayer, the name of a church, and so on. But the Lord will never allow anything to take His glory! Nevertheless, many people who worship idols in the house of God do so out of ignorance and lack of knowledge. And this is where our enemy gains his strength. Therefore, this message is given by the great grace of God to those who are willing to love the Lord above everything else. Worshipping the Word of God The Word of God can become an idol if it takes the place of God Himself. And this is astonishing! I know that by making this statement, I have probably disturbed the theology of many people. Let me repeat it, so that you understand that I am not speaking carelessly: “The word of God can become a very dangerous idol, and it can bring death if it is worshipped or allowed to take the place of God.” There is nothing as valuable as the Word of God. Nevertheless, everyone must understand that the “word of God” is not God Himself! It is extremely dangerous for any person, Church, or institution to build upon the word of God instead of building upon God Himself. Today, there are many Churches that have fallen into this kind of deception. You can recognize them by observing their people: they have a form of godliness but deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5). The Church develops certain forms of worship that contradict the presence of God! The Word of God vs. “the word of God” I know that when I say “the word of God is not God,” many people become surprised, especially when they remember John 1:1, which says: > “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” It is absolutely true that this Scripture says the Word was God. However, it is important to understand that this passage is speaking about “the Word” and not merely “the word of God.” There is a significant difference between these two expressions: “the Word of God” and “the word of God.” When you say “the Word of God,” you are referring, in essence, to a Person—which is why Word begins with a capital letter. However, when you say “the word of God,” you are not necessarily referring to a person, but rather to the ordinary word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Throughout the Bible, there are places where the word “Word” is used with a capital letter. When Scripture uses it in that way, it refers to a Person—Christ! The Bible is filled with the word of God that needs to be made alive. When a person reads it, they should seek the Spirit through whom that word was written. Therefore, the word of God needs the Spirit behind it so that it can be transformed into the living Word of God, who is a Person. And that is what saves, blesses, and heals. Thus: The word of God + the Holy Spirit = The Word of God [Jesus] Without the Holy Spirit, there is no life in anything. Therefore, do not be surprised that even the Bible can be used by witches or traditional healers in their practices. This helps us understand the meaning of the Scripture: > “For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” — 2 Corinthians 3:6 Essentially, without the Holy Spirit, the Bible becomes nothing more than a book of history, literature, philosophy, stories, politics, or any other ordinary book. And many people have treated Scripture in exactly that way. They have never encountered the Living Word of God within their hearts. As a result, they have built their lives upon a “word of God” that has never become flesh within them. Because of their lack of understanding, many people consider such individuals to be servants of God. Yet this condition has ultimately turned them into philosophers, motivational speakers, politicians, and extreme businessmen operating within the house of God. This is extremely dangerous! When the Lord made a whip and overturned the tables of the merchants in His Father’s house, was that not also a prophecy of what is going to take place in the house of God today? May God bless you greatly! #ToBeContinued... Mwl. Ernest Nyalula +255 616 609 885 #LostInTheChurch #CircumcisionOfTheHeart #TrueHoliness #BornAgain #GraceAndTruth #ChristJesus #Christianity #TheCross #SpiritualGrowth #GodsWord

What happens when people keep asking God for direction while refusing to obey what He has already said? https://patrickryanlewis.com/2026/08/17/ezekiel-20-when-god-confronts-a-history-of-rebellion/ Ezekiel 20 takes us through Israel’s painful history of rebellion—from Egypt, through the wilderness, and into the Promised Land. Again and again, God’s people turned toward idols and rejected His commands. Yet one phrase keeps appearing: God acted for the sake of His name. This chapter is a powerful reminder that God’s patience should never be mistaken for permission. His grace does not make sin insignificant—it should lead us to repentance. The question Ezekiel 20 leaves us with is deeply personal: Are we genuinely seeking God, or are we asking Him to approve a life we have not fully surrendered to Him? Read the new blog as we explore Ezekiel 20: When God Confronts a History of Rebellion and discover what this chapter teaches about obedience, idolatry, judgment, grace, and the faithfulness of God. #Ezekiel20 #BibleStudy #BookOfEzekiel #ChristianLiving #BiblicalTruth #Repentance #Obedience #GodsGrace #GodsFaithfulness #OldTestament #AGuyAndHisBible

📖 TODAY'S BIBLE READING Monday, August 17 📜 OLD TESTAMENT JUDGES 18 — The Danites and Micah's Idol ✝️ NEW TESTAMENT 2 PETER 2 — Warning Against False Teachers 🌿 MAJOR PROPHETS ISAIAH 28 — The Cornerstone of Zion 🌿 Today's Reflection 📜 Judges 18 The Danites take Micah's idols and establish their own form of worship. The chapter shows the danger of spiritual compromise and reminds us that God's people must not replace His truth with what simply seems right in their own eyes. ✝️ 2 Peter 2 Peter gives a strong warning about false teachers who distort the truth and lead others into sin. Believers are called to remain grounded in God's Word, recognize deception, and pursue holy living. 🌿 Isaiah 28 Isaiah confronts the pride and false security of Israel's leaders, but also points to God's sure foundation: the precious cornerstone laid by God in Zion. Our confidence should rest on God's truth rather than human wisdom or temporary security. ✨ KEY VERSE "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation." — Isaiah 28:16 🙏 PRAYER Heavenly Father, establish our lives firmly upon Your truth. Give us discernment to recognize false teaching and the courage to reject anything that draws us away from You. Keep us humble, faithful, and rooted in Christ, our sure foundation. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. WE STUDY. WE PRAY. WE OBEY. WE GROW. UNTIL WE ARE TOTALLY TRANSFORMED. 📖✨🙏 🌿 TODAY'S CHALLENGE Check your foundation today. Let God's Word—not popular opinion, feelings, or human wisdom—guide your decisions, beliefs, and actions.

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 9–10 | 2 Corinthians 13 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 9 God’s Judgment and the Certainty of His Word 2 Kings 9 marks a decisive turning point in Israel's history as God begins carrying out the judgment He had previously announced through Elijah. Elisha sends one of the sons of the prophets to anoint Jehu as king over Israel. This private act of anointing is more than a political transition—it is the beginning of God's righteous judgment against the house of Ahab for years of idolatry, injustice, and rebellion. Jehu immediately responds to God's calling with decisive action. The military leaders quickly recognize God's hand upon him and proclaim him king. What follows is not merely a change in leadership but the fulfillment of God's prophetic Word. Every event unfolds exactly as the Lord had declared years earlier. Jehu confronts King Joram and later King Ahaziah. Both kings experience the consequences of the spiritual corruption that had spread through Ahab's household. The narrative demonstrates that while God is patient, His warnings should never be mistaken for indifference. His judgment may be delayed, but it is always certain when people continually refuse to repent. The chapter reaches its climax with the death of Jezebel. For years she had promoted Baal worship, persecuted God's prophets, and manipulated justice for personal gain. Her end fulfills Elijah's prophecy in remarkable detail, proving once again that God's Word never fails. Human power, influence, and wealth cannot prevent the accomplishment of God's purposes. Throughout these dramatic events, the emphasis remains on God's faithfulness rather than Jehu's military ability. The Lord is bringing history into alignment with His covenant justice. He alone determines the rise and fall of kings. Theologically, 2 Kings 9 reveals both God's patience and His justice. He gives repeated opportunities for repentance, but persistent rebellion eventually brings judgment. The chapter also demonstrates that every prophecy spoken by God will be fulfilled exactly as He has declared. This chapter points to Christ, who will one day return as the righteous King and Judge. Unlike Jehu, whose mission was limited and imperfect, Jesus will establish perfect justice throughout the earth. His judgment will be completely righteous, and His kingdom will never end. For believers today, 2 Kings 9 reminds us that God takes sin seriously while remaining perfectly faithful to His Word. We should never presume upon His patience or delay obedience because judgment seems distant. In Christ, we have received mercy through the cross, and we are called to live in faithful obedience, knowing that our righteous King will ultimately establish perfect justice. 2 Kings 10 Zeal Without Wholehearted Obedience 2 Kings 10 continues Jehu's mission to remove the house of Ahab and eliminate Baal worship from Israel. The chapter begins with Jehu carrying out God's judgment against Ahab's descendants. Though these events are difficult to read, they demonstrate the seriousness of God's earlier warnings. What He had spoken through His prophets is now fulfilled completely. Jehu also confronts those who remained loyal to Ahab's family, bringing an end to their influence. The chapter repeatedly emphasizes that God's Word through Elijah has come to pass. The Lord proves once again that His promises and His warnings are equally certain. One of Jehu's most significant actions is his destruction of the temple of Baal. Through careful planning, he gathers the worshipers of Baal into one place and removes this center of idolatry from Israel. In doing so, Jehu accomplishes an important aspect of the task God had given him. His zeal for eliminating Baal worship appears commendable and demonstrates courage in confronting open rebellion against the Lord. Yet the chapter also reveals a serious weakness in Jehu's heart. Although he removes Baal worship, he refuses to abandon the golden calves established by Jeroboam. He eliminates one form of idolatry while tolerating another. His obedience is partial rather than complete. This becomes the defining lesson of Jehu's reign. God commends him for carrying out His judgment against Ahab, yet the nation does not experience lasting spiritual renewal because Jehu himself never fully follows the Lord with all his heart. Outward reform without inward devotion cannot produce lasting transformation. As a result, the chapter concludes with Israel beginning to experience military losses. The nation continues to decline because true revival requires more than removing outward sin—it requires wholehearted love for God. Theologically, 2 Kings 10 teaches that partial obedience is not the same as complete surrender. God desires hearts that are fully devoted to Him, not selective obedience based on personal preference. Religious reform alone cannot replace genuine relationship with the Lord. This chapter points to Christ, who fulfilled the Father's will perfectly. Jesus did not obey partially or selectively but completed every aspect of God's redemptive plan. Through His perfect obedience, believers receive the righteousness they could never achieve on their own. For believers today, 2 Kings 10 challenges us to examine whether there are areas of compromise we have allowed to remain in our lives. It is possible to be zealous for certain aspects of God's work while still holding onto idols of the heart. In Christ, we are called to wholehearted obedience, surrendering every area of our lives to His lordship. True spiritual transformation begins when our devotion to God is complete, and our desire is not merely to remove obvious sin but to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. 2 Corinthians 13 — Standing Firm in the Christ 2 Corinthians chapter 13 brings Paul's letter to a fitting conclusion by calling believers to examine their lives, pursue spiritual maturity, and remain united in the Christ, the Son of God. After defending the integrity of his ministry and repeatedly pointing the church back to the gospel, Paul ends with a pastoral appeal rather than a personal victory. The redemptive plan is not simply about correcting error but about producing mature disciples who faithfully reflect the character of the Christ. The chapter begins with Paul's preparation for another visit to Corinth. He reminds the believers that sin cannot simply be ignored. God's desire is always restoration, but restoration requires honesty, repentance, and obedience. Christian living involves a willingness to receive correction because the Son of God disciplines those He loves. His purpose is never destruction but the strengthening of His people. Paul addresses those who questioned his authority and sought proof that the Christ was working through him. Rather than responding with pride, he points to the example of Jesus Himself. The Christ willingly embraced weakness through His suffering and crucifixion, yet He now lives in the power of God. This becomes a pattern for every believer. The redemptive plan often displays God's greatest power through what the world considers weakness. Christian living is not built upon self-sufficiency but upon continual dependence on the risen Son of God. One of the central themes of the chapter is self-examination. Rather than spending energy evaluating others, believers are called to examine their own relationship with the Christ. This examination is not intended to create fear or uncertainty but to encourage genuine faith and continued spiritual growth. The Son of God desires hearts that remain sincere, humble, and fully devoted to Him. Paul expresses his prayer that the Corinthians would do what is right, even if it meant they no longer needed his correction. His goal was never to prove himself but to see the church walking faithfully with the Christ. This reflects the heart of true spiritual leadership. The redemptive plan always seeks the maturity of God's people rather than the recognition of His servants. The chapter also emphasizes the purpose of spiritual authority. God gives authority within the church to build up His people, not to tear them down. The Christ uses faithful leaders to strengthen, encourage, correct, and equip believers for greater obedience. Christian living flourishes when truth is spoken with love and authority is exercised with humility. As Paul closes the letter, he gives several practical exhortations that summarize much of what he has taught throughout both Corinthian letters. Believers are called to rejoice, pursue maturity, encourage one another, live in unity, and remain at peace. These qualities are evidence that the redemptive plan is actively transforming hearts. The Son of God does not merely save individuals; He creates a unified people who reflect His love and truth together. The letter concludes with one of the most beautiful blessings in the New Testament. Paul points to the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. This closing reminder reveals that every aspect of Christian living depends upon the work of the triune God. The grace provided through the Christ, the love of the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit sustain believers as they walk in God's redemptive plan. Throughout this chapter, the Christ remains the central focus. He is the standard by which believers examine themselves, the source of their strength, the model of humble obedience, and the One who equips His people for faithful living. The redemptive plan reaches beyond forgiveness into lifelong transformation, producing believers who increasingly reflect His character. For believers today, this chapter calls us to live with honest self-examination and unwavering devotion to the Christ. Christian living requires humility, repentance, and a continual desire to grow in spiritual maturity. We are reminded to pursue unity, encourage one another, and remain faithful to the truth of God's Word. As we rely upon the grace of the Son of God, walk in the love of the Father, and depend upon the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, we become living testimonies of His redemptive plan and reflect the glory of the Christ to the world around us. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

Acts 21: "1 And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara: 2 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth. 3 Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. 4 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. 5 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. 6 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again. 7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. 8 And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him. 9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. 10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. 11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. 12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. 14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done. 15 And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem. 16 There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge. 17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18 And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present. 19 And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law: 21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. 22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come. 23 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them; 24 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law. 25 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication. 26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them. 27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him, 28 Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place. 29 (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.) 30 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut. 31 And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. 32 Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul. 33 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done. 34 And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle. 35 And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people. 36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him. 37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek? 38 Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers? 39 But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people. 40 And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,"

490: The Fullness of God's Mercy—and A Call to Repent "Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." — Matthew 18:22 The number 490 reminds us of the greatness of God's mercy and His perfect plan of redemption. When Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive, Jesus answered, "seventy times seven." Jesus was not teaching us to keep count. He was revealing the overflowing mercy of God toward those who repent and believe in Him. This stands in striking contrast to Lucifer. Lucifer was created with great privilege and beauty, yet pride filled his heart, and he rebelled against God. Throughout Scripture, Satan is never presented as seeking repentance or receiving forgiveness. Instead, he remains the deceiver, the accuser, and the adversary. The Bible consistently points not to his restoration but to his final judgment in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10). By contrast, fallen humanity is offered what Satan is never shown seeking: God's invitation to repent and be reconciled through Jesus Christ. The Father sent His Son to bear our sins, die in our place, and rise again so that everyone who trusts in Him may receive forgiveness and eternal life. The number 490 also points to Daniel's prophecy of the seventy weeks (490 years), revealing God's redemptive plan leading to the coming of the Messiah, who would make atonement for sin and bring in everlasting righteousness (Daniel 9:24). As the Bible closes, Revelation reminds us that God's mercy has an appointed day. Christ will return, evil will be judged, and eternity will be established. Revelation lists those whose lives are characterized by persistent, unrepentant rebellion against God—such as the cowardly, unbelieving, murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars (Revelation 21:8). It also says that nothing unclean will enter the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:27). These passages are not teaching that anyone who has ever committed these sins is beyond hope. Rather, they warn that those who persist in them without repentance and reject Christ will not inherit God's kingdom. The Gospel declares that idolaters, liars, adulterers, thieves, and every other kind of sinner can be washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (see 1 Corinthians 6:9–11). Satan's story is one of pride, rebellion, accusation, and judgment. Jesus' story is one of humility, sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption. Today, God's mercy is still extended through Christ. The One who commands us to forgive "seventy times seven" is the same Lord who still calls sinners to repent while there is time. When He returns, the season of grace will give way to the final judgment. Therefore, let us turn from idols, reject deception, walk in the truth, and cling to Christ alone. Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You for Your immeasurable mercy. Thank You that though I deserved judgment, You offered me forgiveness through Your finished work on the cross. Search my heart for any idol, deception, or unrepentant sin. Keep me abiding in You, walking in truth, and proclaiming Your Gospel until the day You return. Amen.

LOST IN THE CHURCH "[PART TWO]" THE CHURCH The Church is a very important instrument in the hands of the Lord. However, that does not mean that by simply looking to or depending on the Church, a person can be saved. The Church cannot heal a person, lead them into all truth, or even baptize them with the Holy Spirit. THE LORD alone is able to do all these things! Going to church every day of worship does not make someone a Christian. It is like taking a wheelbarrow to a garage every day and expecting it to be called a car. Reading the Word of God, preaching, or knowing some of the mysteries of salvation does not make someone a Christian either. If it were that easy, Lucifer would have been the number-one Christian! Therefore, Christianity is having a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. And this relationship cannot exist unless a person is born again by the Holy Spirit. Being born again is not a secret matter. First, you yourself will know it, and everyone around you will see its fruits. Nevertheless, the Lord did not leave us in darkness. He gave us certain signs that would accompany His children wherever they go. There are many of these signs, and some of them can be read in Mark 16:17–18. Therefore, it is entirely possible for someone to have no visible faults in the eyes of people, to fit perfectly into a church, and to be highly respected and trusted by the pastor and the entire church, yet not be the same person before the living God. Being known by the church or by a pastor is very different from being known by God! And what will it profit us to be famous on earth if we are unknown in heaven? The truth is that there are many believers of this kind in churches, and I assure you, they are potential inhabitants of the eternal Hell that is so terrifying. As I say this, I remember once seeing the testimony of a certain servant of God who claimed to have been shown Hell. He wrote a shocking message saying: «"HELL IS FULL OF GOOD PEOPLE."» In other words: “Hell is filled with many people who were good on earth!” Christianity is not a religion. Nevertheless, one of the highest results of religion is that it can make a person civilized in the eyes of people and morally good. Yet goodness does not make a person enter heaven! The Scriptures clearly say that no one is good except God alone. Matthew 19:17. My brothers and sisters, the Church was intended to be a place with altars that help a person encounter the Lord Jesus. But if attending church is considered salvation itself, and nothing beyond that is happening, then let me tell you plainly: you are wasting your time. And undoubtedly, you may be on the list of people who are worshipping idols! Every altar must be alive and must connect Heaven with Earth. Otherwise, you are simply gathering as a society of people comforting one another, placing your hope in false expectations. For how can you have no relationship with God now and expect to have a relationship with Him in Heaven later? Heaven, just like Hell, is the continuation of the life a person has known on Earth. I think we should admit that we are entertaining ourselves with religion. Because if we truly encountered the Lord Jesus in our lives, how could we tolerate remaining in a place where the One we encountered is not present? If we have been able to tolerate such things until now, then the simplest explanation is this: we do not know the Lord, nor have we ever encountered Him. That is why we have been able to tolerate fake things, believing that those fake things are real! Water and wine are two different things. What happens when you take water to people who are accustomed to wine? Today, let us say soda and beer. What do you think would happen if you took soda to a wedding of beer drinkers? Surely, they would all leave, and you would remain only with those who had never tasted beer! And for those who have tasted Him, they will agree with me that there is no one as good and addictive as the Lord! Once you taste Him, you will spend the rest of your life here on Earth longing for Him, saying: «“Oh Lord, I need some more of You!”» And is this not the reason the Scriptures say: «“Taste and see that the LORD is good.” Psalm 34:8» And is that not also the reason the Lord said: «“Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:54» These days, it has become completely normal to enter a certain church and find that not even one person there has ever encountered the Lord—including the pastor himself! You find a pastor preaching about Jesus who appeared to, or was encountered by, other people—but not by him personally. Do you think there can be any spiritual morning in such a place? There are more churches of this kind today than the sand of the sea! My brothers and sisters, by saying these things, I do not mean to despise worship or any particular church. I simply want people to understand that the primary purpose of the Church is to lead people to the Lord. However, if a Church abandons this essential foundation and ends up controlling people, leading them into legalism, directing them toward ministers, programs, or certain religious institutional systems, then that Church can become an extremely dangerous place—perhaps even more dangerous than a drinking club. BABYLON, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS Prophetically, a woman represents a church. If you read about the prostitute woman described in Revelation 17, you will discover that this represents the FALSE CHURCH in the world. Essentially, this church is the greatest enemy of the Church of God. That is why you will see this woman drunk with the blood of the saints. «“I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement.” Revelation 17:6» Many people, when they read this prophecy, end up identifying the Roman Church as the one being referred to. However, this is a spirit of deception that exists everywhere. And this spirit may even be more deeply rooted in spiritual churches than in others. It is very remarkable that the revelation of this “woman” is connected to the revelation of the Tower of Babel when you read Genesis 11. Ultimately, the message here is a revelation of the Church—or any person—who attempts to approach God through human effort or religious zeal while rejecting the grace of the Cross of Jesus. This includes all people who approach a God who has not called them, worshipping God without knowing Him, without encountering Him, while placing their confidence in their works of the law and their own efforts. «“He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”» #ToBeContinued... Sir Ernest Nyalula +255616609885 #LostInTheChurch #Church #Christianity #BiblicalTruth #JesusChrist #KnowGod #BornAgain #HolySpirit #KingdomOfGod #SpiritualAwakening #ChristianTruth #Bible #Faith #JesusIsLord

📘 Daily Devotion — August 13 | Acts 17:30 (NKJV) 💯 Turning to God While speaking to the people in Athens, Paul proclaimed the one true God who created heaven and earth. Many had devoted themselves to idols and worshiped what they did not truly know. Paul lovingly called them away from false beliefs and declared God's invitation to repentance through Jesus Christ. Repentance is more than feeling sorry for sin. It is a change of heart and mind that leads us to turn away from sin and turn toward God in faith and obedience. Because of Christ's death and resurrection, God now calls every person to receive His mercy and walk in a new way of life. This verse reminds us that God's call to repentance is an expression of His grace. He desires that people come to know Him, experience forgiveness, and live in the joy of a restored relationship with Him. Reflection Questions 1. Is there an area of my life where God is calling me to repent? 2. Am I allowing God to transform my heart each day? 3. How can I encourage others to turn to Christ? Prayer Lord God, thank You for Your mercy and patience toward me. Help me to turn away from anything that dishonors You and to walk in faithful obedience. Continue to shape my heart so that my life reflects Your holiness and love. In Jesus name Amen. Practical Application ● Confess any known sin to God and seek His forgiveness. ● Ask the Holy Spirit to help you walk in obedience. ● Share God's message of hope and repentance with someone in need. Takeaway Thought True repentance opens the door to a life transformed by God's grace. #LordsbookDailys #DailyDevotion #August13 #Acts1730 #CallToRepentance #TurnToGod #GraceAndTruth #BibleInspiration #GrowInFaith

Ezekiel Chapter 14 — Simple Explanation Chapter 14 goes deeper than false prophets. Now God deals with the root problem inside the people: idolatry in their hearts. 1. Idols in the heart (verses 1–5) Some elders come to Ezekiel to ask God for guidance. Alright—here’s a clear, straight explanation of Ezekiel 12 without the picture. What’s going on in this chapter? God is speaking through the prophet Ezekiel to warn the people of Israel (especially those in Jerusalem). The main message: judgment is coming, and exile is certain. 1. Ezekiel acts out a message (verses 1–7) God tells Ezekiel to act like someone going into exile: * Pack his belongings * Leave in the daytime where people can see * Dig through a wall and carry his stuff out This wasn’t random—it was a sign. It showed that the people of Jerusalem would soon be forced to leave their land as captives. 2. The people are spiritually blind (verses 2–3) God says: * They have eyes but don’t see * They have ears but don’t hear Meaning: they are ignoring God on purpose. They’ve become stubborn and rebellious. 3. The king will try to escape—but fail (verses 8–13) This part is about the king of Jerusalem (Zedekiah): * He will try to escape secretly * But he will be captured * He will be taken to Babylon Even leaders won’t escape God’s judgment. 4. Fear and suffering are coming (verses 17–20) God tells Ezekiel to: * Eat food while trembling * Drink water with fear This represents how the people will live—in anxiety, scarcity, and fear when disaster comes. 5. No more delays (verses 21–28) People were saying: “These prophecies won’t happen anytime soon.” God responds: * No more delay * What He said will happen soon God is basically saying: “Stop thinking you have forever—this is real and it’s coming.” Key message of Ezekiel 12 * God warns before He judges * Ignoring God doesn’t stop consequences * Judgment may seem delayed—but it will come * Even in judgment, God still speaks to give people a chance to wake up Simple takeaway for you This chapter is a serious reminder: Don’t ignore truth when you hear it. Because the danger isn’t not knowing—it’s knowing and refusing to respond. But God says: * These men have set up idols in their hearts * Yet they still come pretending to seek Him This is serious hypocrisy. Meaning: * You can look religious on the outside * But inside, something else is controlling you (money, power, lust, pride, etc.) God’s response: “I will answer them according to their idols.” In other words: If you choose idols, expect consequences from that choice. 2. A call to repent (verses 6–11) God gives a clear command: * Turn away from your idols * Stop all detestable practices He warns: * Anyone (even foreigners) who turns to idols and then asks God for guidance will face judgment God wants sincerity, not divided loyalty. 3. Even great righteousness won’t save a nation (verses 12–20) God gives a strong example: Even if these three righteous men were there: * Noah * Daniel * Job They would only save themselves, not the whole land. Meaning: * A nation’s sin has consequences * You can’t rely on someone else’s righteousness 4. Judgment is unavoidable—but not without purpose (verses 21–23) God lists four severe judgments: * Sword (war) * Famine * Wild beasts * Plague Yet He says: * A remnant will survive * And their story will show that God’s judgment was just Even in judgment, God leaves a witness. Key message of Ezekiel 14 * The biggest idols are often internal, not physical * God sees beyond outward religion * Personal responsibility matters—you can’t depend on others spiritually * Judgment comes, but God still leaves room for understanding and repentance Simple takeaway What controls your heart matters more than what you say with your mouth. Because God isn’t just listening to prayers— He’s looking at what you truly serve. 🙏[everyone]