THE TRUTH ABOUT THE RAPTURE WANTING TO BE TEACHERS, BUT NEED TO BE TAUGHT. Hebrews 5 : 12-14 [12] For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. Many so-called preachers call themselves teachers, but have need of to be taught God's Word.They need the milk of the Gospel to understand God. Because they have not been taught God's Word to understand the Gospel from the perspective of God's Word. [13] For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. Those so-called preachers can only give you The Gospel (Milk) because they do not know God's Word. They are unskilled in what God has said.You are listening to baby talk. [14] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Strong meat is the whole counsel of God's Word and the ability to teach it! Only those who have learned the whole counsel of God's Word have the skills to speak with certainty of what is right and what is wrong When it comes to The Rapture this is the case. Those who are babes want to keep everyone in fear. Teaching that the Lord can come anytime and sound a trumpet. This is not the truth of God's Word. 1 Thessalonians 4 : 15-17 [15] For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. [16] For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: [17] Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. This is The Rapture, it is the day when The Lord Jesus Christ will come for His Church. It is a day that cannot happen any day. This day has a set time to occur. A set day already determined by God's Word. This is the difference between milk and meat of God's Word. On this day, it does not say trumpet sounding. It says, with The Trump of God, The Lord will descend with a shout. It will probably sound like thunder this shout. It does not say with a sound of a trumpet. The Trump of God refers to a certain day. Leviticus 23 : 23-24 [23] And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, [24] Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a sabbath, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation. In God's Word this is the day of The Feast of Trumpets. A Holy Day God commanded The Israelites to keep every year. In Leviticus 23, God lists His Feast Days. The word Feasts in Hebrew can also be translated as Set Times. The Lord's Set Times. The Lord's Set Times are these: Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, Pentecost, Trumpets, Atonement, and Tabernacles. Each of these Set Times was a certain day to be fulfilled by THE LORD HIMSELF. The first four were fulfilled by THE LORD HIMSELF in one year, 33 AD on their specific day that year. These Set days were types of what The Lord was to do in the redemption of mankind. Salvation is the work of THE LORD only. When THE LORD JESUS CHRIST comes for His Church it will be on this day, the day of The Feast of Trumpets. To fulfill the type in the Old Testament. This is why Paul says, with The Trump of God. He is coming on this day some year to fulfill this type or shadow that He said back in the Old Testament just like the ones He fulfilled in 33 AD The Feast of Trumpets is the next on the list to be fulfilled. Whatever day that is this year look for Him then. If He does not come, then we have a whole year to wait for Him to come and fulfill that day next year. Do not let these so-called preachers and teachers keep you in fear that The Lord can come at any time, they just want to keep you in fear and their control. Who The Son sets free is free indeed. Live your life and watch for The Lord's return because we that are awake and are not walking in darkness know the time of His Coming. This is the meat of God's Word concerning The Rapture. By the way, the Feast of Trumpets is September 11, 2026, also known as Rosh Hashanah.

The Name of YHWH — Truth Hidden in Plain Sight Introduction Throughout Scripture, the Creator reveals His personal Name. Many people read over it without realizing it because most English Bibles replace it with titles like “LORD” in all capital letters. Yet the Name appears nearly 7,000 times in the Hebrew Scriptures. This study explores: What the Name is Why it was hidden in translations Why the Name matters How believers honored the Name in Scripture 1. The Creator Revealed His Name Exodus 3:13–15 When Moses asked what Name he should give to Israel, Elohim answered: “Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, YHWH Elohim of your fathers... this is my name forever.” The Hebrew letters are: יהוה Often represented in English as: YHWH This is called the Tetragrammaton (“four letters”). 2. The Name Was Not Originally “LORD” In many English Bibles: “LORD” (all caps) replaces YHWH “God” sometimes replaces Elohim But in the original Hebrew text, the Name was written plainly thousands of times. Example: Psalm 83:18 “That men may know that thou, whose name alone is YHWH, art the most high over all the earth.” Many translations replace the Name with “LORD,” hiding what the verse actually says. 3. The Third Commandment Is About the Name Exodus 20:7 “Thou shalt not take the name of YHWH thy Elohim in vain…” The commandment does not say: “Do not know My Name” “Do not say My Name” Instead, it warns against misusing or emptying the Name of meaning. 4. YHWH Wants His Name Remembered Exodus 3:15 “This is my name forever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.” The word “memorial” means something remembered and proclaimed. Psalm 68:4 “Sing unto Elohim… extol him by his name YAH…” “Yah” is the shortened poetic form found throughout Scripture. 5. The Prophets Declared the Name Isaiah 42:8 “I am YHWH: that is my name…” Jeremiah 16:21 “They shall know that my name is YHWH.” The prophets repeatedly emphasized the Name instead of hiding it. 6. The Messiah Came in His Father’s Name John 5:43 “I am come in my Father’s name…” John 17:6 “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me…” The Messiah did not hide the Father’s Name; He revealed it. 7. Why Was the Name Hidden? Historically, some Jewish traditions avoided pronouncing the Name out of fear of misuse. Later translators followed this tradition and substituted: LORD GOD This tradition became so common that many readers never realized a personal Name was there. 8. Evidence Hidden in Plain Sight Even modern words preserve parts of the Name: HalleluYah Means: “Praise Yah” Names in Scripture also contain the Name: Isaiah (YashaYahu) Jeremiah (YirmeYahu) Elijah (EliYah) The Name was woven throughout biblical language and culture. 9. Calling Upon the Name Joel 2:32 “Whosoever shall call on the name of YHWH shall be delivered.” Romans 10:13 Paul quotes Joel, showing the importance of the Name continued into the New Testament. 10. Conclusion The Name of YHWH was never removed from Scripture originally. It was hidden in many translations through substitution traditions. The Bible teaches: His Name is eternal His Name is to be remembered His people proclaimed His Name The Messiah revealed His Father’s Name Truth about the Name has been in plain sight all along. Key Scriptures for Further Study Exodus 3:13–15 Exodus 20:7 Deuteronomy 6:4 Psalm 68:4 Psalm 83:18 Isaiah 42:8 Jeremiah 16:21 Joel 2:32 John 5:43 John 17:6 Romans 10:13

The Story Behind the Hymns THE STORY BEHIND "COME THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING" Few hymns capture the wonder of God's grace as beautifully as Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing. Written in 1758 by Robert Robinson (1735–1790), this timeless hymn has encouraged Christians for more than two and a half centuries to remember God's faithfulness and rely on His grace. Robert Robinson was far from God during his youth. At the age of 17, he listened to a powerful sermon preached by the renowned evangelist George Whitefield. Though he initially resisted the message, the Holy Spirit continued to work in his heart, and after months of conviction, Robinson gave his life to Christ. Filled with gratitude for the grace that had transformed him, he wrote Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing at just 22 years old. The hymn opens with a heartfelt prayer: "Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace." These words acknowledge God as the source of every blessing and ask Him to prepare the believer's heart for continual praise. One of the hymn's most intriguing lines is: 'Here I raise mine Ebenezer." This phrase comes from 1 Samuel 7:12, where the prophet Samuel erected a memorial stone after God delivered Israel from the Philistines. He called it Ebenezer, meaning "Stone of Help," declaring, "Thus far hath the Lord helped us." Robinson used this biblical image as a testimony that God had faithfully guided and sustained him. Another deeply personal verse has resonated with generations of Christians: "Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love." These words honestly express the believer's struggle with a wandering heart while pointing to the need for God's preserving grace. It is this combination of humility, honesty, and confidence in God's mercy that has made the hymn so enduring. Today, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing remains one of the most cherished hymns in Christian worship. Its message reminds believers that every blessing comes from God, that His grace is sufficient for every need, and that He remains faithful to those who trust in Him. "Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood." That is the enduring message of this beloved hymn: the God who saves is also the God who keeps.

Matthew 17:24-27 Now that the transfiguration is over and Peter is sufficiently humbled by speaking where silence would do nicely Jesus and his apostles reach Capernaum. And of course, the Jewish leaders there are looking for any reason to trap Jesus they could find so they lean on the temple tax. Understand this, through God's law and precepts the temple was cared for. The priests had an income, the instruments were created hundreds of years earlier. This was an annual tax, it was called an offering, but it is spelled out in Exodus 30. Exodus 30:12-16 [12] “When you take a census of the sons of Israel to count them, then each one of them shall give a ransom for himself to the Lord, when you count them, so that there will be no plague among them when you count them. [13] This is what everyone who is counted shall give: half a shekel according to the shekel of the sanctuary (the shekel is twenty gerahs), half a shekel as a contribution to the Lord. [14] Everyone who is counted, from twenty years old and over, shall give the contribution to the Lord. [15] The rich shall not pay more, and the poor shall not pay less, than the half shekel, when you give the contribution to the Lord to make atonement for yourselves. [16] And you shall take the atonement money from the sons of Israel and give it for the service of the tent of meeting, so that it may be a memorial for the sons of Israel before the Lord, to make atonement for yourselves.” The leaders continually fail in challenging Jesus’ teaching so they are left with nitpicking on matters of the law. And Moses was given detailed instructions on matters of law. Here it is 2 drachma, in Exodus it was half a shekel, in truth, it was an offering equivalent of two days of wages once annually for every male over the age of 20. It is an offering and is also called a ‘ransom’ for the people. So before anyone tells you that God does not care about what we give Him regularly think back on this. God specified a set amount (2 days wages annually) in addition to tithes and offerings in Leviticus. (10% of revenue of everything else.) If you believe that God cared this much in the Old Testament about how much and how often His people gave money and all of a sudden in the New Testament He's changed His mind, there may be a flaw in your thinking. Despite the excuses we make, God expects regular giving from Christians. A tithe of 10% is bare minimum, and does not cover our offerings over and above that. But offerings are still expected. And this ‘tax’ was actually an offering that was taken from what was earned. Jesus illustrates this by telling Peter to go fish. You see, by now, Jesus and the apostles were sustaining themselves solely with the offerings the early believers gave. And since Jesus told Peter to pay for himself and Jesus with what he pulls from the water. The reason that Jesus didn't tell Peter that he should wait until he has enough to pay for all 13 men, is likely because the apostles, with the exception of Peter, could have all been under the age of 20. Note the Jewish leaders were not questioning the apostles giving the temple tax, just Jesus. So they ask Peter, so does your rabbi pay the temple tax? Peter's immediate answer is, “YES HE DOES!” Then Peter comes to Jesus kinda like the confident 5 year old checking on the accuracy of statements he’s already made. And Peter doesn't even get the question out because as soon as Peter enters, Jesus knows what he was going to ask. And Jesus gives Peter the lesson going back to Jesus’ identity as divine. Jesus clearly asserts that he is not obligated to pay because he's the Son, not a stranger. However, He doesn't want to offend someone with such a trivial matter. So He arranges to pay. It's at this point that my ADD/ADHD brain starts annoying me. And I have to ask myself a question, the answer to which doesn't make a bit of difference to the story at all. And that question is this, did Jesus know somehow that there was currently a fish swimming around with the exact amount required to pay for Him and Peter? Or did He cause the coin to miraculously appear in the fish the moment Peter caught it? Is God intimately aware of all things all animals have swallowed ever at any time or is this a specific miracle to this fish and this fisherman? How it got there doesn't matter. But I'd still like to know. Wouldn't you? [24] Now when they came to Capernaum, those who collected the two-drachma tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the two-drachma tax?” [25] He *said, “Yes.” And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs or poll-tax, from their sons or from strangers?” [26] When Peter said, “From strangers,” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are exempt. [27] However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a stater. Take that and give it to them for you and Me.”

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY MONDAY AUGUST 10, 2O26. "WORKING IN THE KINGDOM (1)" ‘…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. Mark10:43 NIV DISNEYLAND IS referred to as ‘the Magic Kingdom.’ For those who work there, one value is emphasised above all others. It’s what puts the ‘magic’ into that kingdom. What is it? Servanthood! Employees are told that when you walk through those gates, you serve. You treat every encounter with people as if they were your personal guest. If they need directions, you escort them. If they ask a question you’ve heard a hundred times, you answer it as if you’d never heard it before. There’s a ride called the Jungle Cruise, and the most common question asked about it is, ‘How long is this ride?’ So the staff is given a prepared, standard answer: ‘The Jungle Cruise is an exciting adventure ride that lasts ten minutes.’ But one employee had been asked it once too often, so when a couple asked, ‘How long is the Jungle Cruise?’ he said, ‘Three days.’ The couple got out of the line, left the park, went back to Disney Hotel where they were on their honeymoon, packed up their suitcases, checked out, and came back to the line at the Jungle Cruise. The next day the Disneyland employee was gone, and someone else was standing at the line saying, ‘The Jungle Cruise is an exciting adventure ride that lasts ten minutes.’ When you represent God’s kingdom you’re supposed to go out of your way to facilitate people, love them and meet their needs. Why? Because Jesus, Who is the king in this kingdom, said, ‘…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…’ (Matthew 20:28 NIV). Bible In A Year: Judg 4-6, Matt 16:1-12, Ps 119:57-64, Pro 17:22. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 💝🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*🎀💝🌹🌷. MD.ii. [09/08, 7:49 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) MONDAY 10TH AUGUST, 2026``` *A PIVOTAL MOMENT* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🩸🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:ACTS 10:1-8```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God" (ACTS 10:4).*_ *Jack Wugman was walking down the beach one day. He saw an unusual glass bottle. He bent over and picked up the bottle. His life would be forever changed. There was a note inside, from a man named Singer, who invented and perfected the sewing machine. Singer penned a note, WHOEVER FINDS THIS BOTTLE SHALL INHERIT MY WHOLE ESTATE. The judge validated the note, and Jack inherited millions of dollars from a man he had never met. What if Jack never picked up the bottle? It definitely was a pivotal moment in Wugman's life.* *Not everyone reading this today has a bottle floating out there with a million-dollar inheritance, no. But there are pivotal moments God has set for each of our lives. A life-changing moment that is not orchestrated by man, nor induced by any goodness or nobility any of us may have in our history. Cornelius was said to be a devout man who gave alms to support people. He was not an Israelite, but a Roman soldier, a gentile, outside of the commonwealth of Israel. Being a centurion means he was a leader over 100 men. An angel was sent to him by God to acknowledge his devoutness and alms giving. Knowing that that wasn't enough, he was directed to invite Apostle Peter to expound to him the gospel requirements for salvation more perfectly.* *The text highlights the significance of understanding Cornelius's character as the key to his esteemed relationship with God, which transcended his position as a centurion. Despite his military rank and prestige, Cornelius's true legacy lay in his love for the Lord and his generosity. His devout lifestyle inspired others, yet it was emphasised that neither good deeds nor religious piety can secure salvation; faith in the Gospel is essential. The angel's visit to Cornelius was not intended to preach the Gospel, as it is divinely decreed that those who have experienced salvation share the Gospel message, underscoring that salvation is a matter of grace through faith, not works.* *The main lesson here is the need to impact the world with our resources. We are remembered for what we do for others. God has left a far more valuable treasure for us than whatever was promised by Mr. Singer in our introduction. God wants to use us to tell other people about this treasure. We need to urgently preach Christ to our neighbours. He is the only way to eternal life.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*He who shuns the offer of salvation makes vain the sacrifice of Christ.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOB 5-8*📜📜 A Pivotal Moment https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 158: COME BELIEVING; GHS 106: TELL THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD; GHS 107: GO AND TELL THEM; AND GHS 124 CHRIST RECEIVETH SINFUL MEN* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna10thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [09/08, 7:49 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```MONDAY 10TH AUGUST, 2026``` *ATTITUDE OF APPRECIATION* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:LUKE 17:11-19```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan" (LUKE 17:15-16).*_ *Just like the nine lepers who were cleansed and healed but never returned to show appreciation to Jesus who healed them, so do many find it highly unnecessary to testify of the goodness of God after receiving miracles from Him today. Appreciation is pivotal in our interpersonal relationship with fellow men, needless to talk about our relationship with God.* *Those who lack this virtue may not go far in their endeavours because appreciation attracts more blessings as we can find from our text that Jesus was pleased with the only person who came back to show gratitude when he was cleansed of his leprosy.* *John F. Kennedy said, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." This means our gratitude to God for the good things He has done for us must not be a mere lip service but from the bottom of our hearts.* *Attitude of appreciation solidifies the miracles or breakthroughs we receive from the Lord. Endeavour to thank God at all times for His mercy.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Thank God at all times for mercy.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Show appreciation for God is faithful.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to have an attitude of appreciation.*_ Attitude Of Appreciation https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday10thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [09/08, 7:49 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```MONDAY 10TH AUGUST, 2026``` *GOD IS REAL* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```PSALM 14:1-7```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good" (Psalm 14:1).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 A man who was a Christian went to a barber's shop to have his hair cut. While the barber was cutting the hair, the Christian used the opportunity to share the good news about Jesus with the barber. The barber refused to listen through. Instead, he interrupted and told the Christian that there is no God. To him, if God exists, why are people in pain, sickness and poverty. The Christian, who was not ready to engage in any argument, quietly left the barber's shop after the haircut. As he was going, he saw a man with an unkept and untidy hair. He therefore turned back to the barber's shop and said to him, *"You know what? Barbers do not exist." "How can you say that"* protested the barber. *"I am here and I am a barber; what happens is that people do not come."* *"Exactly,"* said the Christian. *"God does exist, but man do not go to Him and do not look up to Him for the solution to their problems. They rather engage in murmuring, complaining and words of unbelief."* *God is real, and He is everywhere. You only need to exercise faith in Him in order to enjoy all the blessings He has prepared for you.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, help me to always look up unto you and never doubt.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Psalm 10:4* God Is Real https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk10thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [09/08, 7:49 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* MONDAY, 10TH AUGUST, 2026. *THE UNSTOPPABLE GOSPEL* *TEXT:* ACTS 10:1-8. 1There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa *Timeless Truth:*_"But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God"_ (Acts 5:39). *INTRODUCTION* There is no way of worshipping God that has faced so much oppositions from both powers and peoples as the gospel of Jesus Christ. If human powers and wisdom could destroy Christianity and the Bible, they would have been destroyed not long after it was birthed at pentecost. The Jewish leaders did all they could to stop the Gospel, but it was birthed by pentecostal power and became dominant among the Jews. The external powers could not stop the spread. Apostle Peter, by the Holy Spirit, opened the door for the evangelization of the Jews at Pentecost in fulfilment of Matthew 16:19 despite the stiff oppositions by the Jews. *"And I will give unto you the keys of the kingdom..."* Though Jesus Christ commanded that the Gospel should be preached *"to the uppermost part of the world"*, the mindset of the Apostles was to preach the gospel to the Jews exclusively in *"the uppermost part of the world"*. Jesus had to break this mindset by using Apostle Peter to bring the gospel of salvation to the non-Jews or Gentiles, thus, breaking the internal barrier to the salvation of the Gentiles. This monumental breakthrough in the preaching of the Gospel is the subject of the text. When God determines to save a soul, no barrier of race, culture, distance, status or tradition can ultimately stop Him. The Gospel advances because God Himself is committed to its fulfilment. *1. Ardent and Faithful to God* a. Cornelius was not the first Gentile convert of the Gospel. Phillip, seven years before then, had preached the gospel that led to the conversion of the Eunuch of Ethiopia (Acts 8). That was made possible through the ministry of an angel. Were it left to Phillip to decide and preach to the Gentile Eunuch, he might have refused. Cornelius and his family were the first Gentile family or household to receive the Gospel and and got converted. Under the Law, we could claim that he was saved and righteous, though a Gentile. *“A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house.”* His deep devotion was backed up by works. *"Who gave much alms to the people and prayed always"*. Under salvation by works, he was a candidate for heaven. However, under the gospel of salvation by grace, he was not qualified for heaven. He needed to know Jesus Christ, the only way to God, and believe the Gospel. *"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12). If Cornelius had rejected the gospel, but relied only on his righteousness, he would have been damned. *"He that believeth not shall be dammed"*. b. The case of Cornelius reinforces the fact that good works and personal righteousness are not enough for salvation. In fact, faithful devotion to God in prayers, fasting and good works are too impotent to bring real salvation to the heart of man. There must be faith in the atoning work of Christ on the Cross and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Saviour. Outside Christ, *"all our righteousness is as filthy rags"* (Isaiah 64:6). *Question* Do you rely on your good works and self righteousness for salvation? *2. Angelic Facilitators of the Gospel* a. When Phillip, the evangelist, first got a gentile converted, it took the ministry of an angel. The same to Apostle Peter and the conversion of the Cornelius and his family. The conversion of Cornelius was more celebrated and noticed by the Early Church because, unlike the Eunuch of Ethiopia, Cornelius was not only saved, his whole family was included and they also received the baptism with the Holy Spirit with the initial evidence of speaking in unlearned and unknown language. None of these two ministers would have reached out to those Gentiles without the ministry of the angels because of their biases against Gentiles when it came to salvation of souls. Cornelius *"saw in a vision evidently...an angel of God coming"*. The angel called him by name and assured him that his prayers and charitable deeds had come before God as a memorial. Sinners who are sincere with God will always be given the opportunity to know the truth unto salvation. This throws a challenge to Christians to be sensitive to God as to who and when to reach out to a soul. This divine visitation demonstrates that heaven was actively working to bring Cornelius into contact with the Gospel. God was more eager to get him saved than anybody else including Apostle Peter. He is *"not willing that any should perish"*. b. God can employ extraordinary means to advance His saving purpose. Angels may facilitate God's work, but they do not replace the preaching of the Gospel. The angel did not preach Christ to Cornelius; instead, he directed Cornelius to send for Apostle Peter. God uses heavenly and earthly instruments together to accomplish His redemptive purposes. The divine-human partnertship are needed to effect the work of God and in particular the preaching of the gospel. Believers therefore, must be prayerful and sensitive to divine guidance in order to be fruitful. The less we rely on the arms of the flesh and the more we put our full confidence and trust in the guidance of the power of the Holy Spirit, the more fruitful we will be in the work of soulwinning. *Question* Am I available for God to use me as an instrument through whom someone else may hear and receive the Gospel? Do I wait on God to receive divine guidance in soulwinning? *3. Assignment Towards Gospel Fullness* Cornelius' salvation is rooted in his obedience to the voice of God and not the voice of any other. He was not only saved, but was baptized with the Holy Spirit. It must be observed that apart from the fact that Phillip did not publish the conversion of the Eunuch, he did not minister the baptism with the Holy Ghost to him. Cornelius and his household were baptized with the Holy Spirit while Apostle Peter was still preaching.There was an uproar and noise that the Gentiles could get the same experience of power of the Holy Spirit. The world cannot receive the Holy Spirit and the devils hate the power of the Holy Spirit too for obvious reasons. Salvation in Christ Jesus is a complete salvation. However, salvation without the power of the Holy Spirit is insufficient for a believer to do great exploits for God and be a terror to the kingdom of darkness. The Holy Spirit is given to them that obey Him. *"And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him"* (Acts 5:32). Cornelius did not delay, debate or disregard the divine instruction. His obedience became an important link in God's plan to bring the fullness of the Gospel to his household. This reminds us that divine instructions demand human cooperation. God may open doors, prepare hearts and arrange circumstances, but believers must respond obediently. *Question* What Gospel assignment has God placed before me and am I faithfully obeying Him without delay like Cornelius and Apostle Peter did? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, teach me more never to rely on my personal goodness and righteousness for divine favour and salvation 🙏. 2.Father, make me a willing instrument through whom You can facilitate the spread of the Gospel to others. Help me to be sensitive to divine guidance 🙏. 3.Lord, I ask for more power of the Holy Spirit for more fruitfulness in the preaching of the gospel 🙏. 4.Father, give understanding to the church goers (you can mention names) who are not yet saved because they are trusting their self righteousness and good works and help them to get real and genuine salvation in Christ🙏. *HYMN:* GO AND TELL THE STORY *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOB 5-8. 2. Morning Prayer gor today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. ⏤ 1 John 3:1 We are all missionaries. Wherever we go we either bring people nearer to Christ or we repel them from Christ. ⏤ Eric Liddell O God, we are grateful that we are Your children. We are not just Your creations. You made the stars, the birds, and the flowers, but unlike them, You made us in Your own image and gave us immortal souls. We thank You for the special place we hold in creation. Help us to live up to the dignity of being Your children and to live as Your children should. You created us with a purpose. You have a plan for each of our lives—something You intend for us to be and to do. We want to fulfill Your purpose for us. Help us to accept Your will and to do what You would have us do. As we go out into the world this morning, guide us in the path You have set for us. We want to serve our generation. Show us what You would have us do and enable us to do it. Fill our hearts with Your love so that we may see the world as You see it. May we look upon others with Your compassion, patience, and a desire to help. Though our efforts may seem small in this vast world, help us to trust that no true work done for You is ever in vain. Help us to make our little corner of the world holier, brighter, sweeter, and happier. Help us to live out Your life in the place You have assigned us, serving those around us. In this way, we shall be a blessing to our small part of the world. Give us a day filled with Your love and grace, our Father. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/36/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐂: 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐍 𝐆𝐎𝐃 𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐒𝐀𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐄 BIBLICAL TEXT: Genesis 8:20-21 (KJV) After the flood, Noah did not begin by building a house for himself. His first priority was to build an altar unto the Lord. He understood that gratitude, worship, and sacrifice should come before personal comfort. His sacrifice rose before God as a sweet savour, and it marked the beginning of a new season for humanity. "And Noah builded an altar unto the Lord... and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And the Lord smelled a sweet savour." (Genesis 8:20-21 KJV) God never overlooks a genuine sacrifice offered in faith, love, and obedience. While we are saved by grace through faith and not by sacrifices, the Bible repeatedly shows that God notices wholehearted acts of worship, generosity, and devotion. Every sacrifice made according to His will is precious before Him. 𝘼) 𝙉𝙊𝘼𝙃'𝙎 𝙎𝘼𝘾𝙍𝙄𝙁𝙄𝘾𝙀 𝘼𝙉𝘿 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝘿𝙄𝙑𝙄𝙉𝙀 𝙍𝙀𝙈𝙀𝙈𝘽𝙍𝘼𝙉𝘾𝙀 𝙏𝙃𝘼𝙏 𝙁𝙊𝙇𝙇𝙊𝙒𝙀𝘿 Noah's sacrifice came after a season of suffering, waiting, and obedience. Before asking God for anything, he chose to honour Him. As Noah's offering ascended before God, the Lord declared that He would no longer curse the ground because of man as He had done before. "And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake." (Genesis 8:21 KJV) Your sincere worship, thanksgiving, obedience, and generosity are never wasted. God sees every act of faithfulness, even when no one else notices. 𝘽) 𝙎𝘼𝘾𝙍𝙄𝙁𝙄𝘾𝙀 𝙏𝙃𝘼𝙏 𝘽𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂𝙎 𝘼𝙉 𝙀𝙉𝘿 𝙏𝙊 𝘿𝙄𝙑𝙄𝙉𝙀 𝙅𝙐𝘿𝙂𝙈𝙀𝙉𝙏 Noah's sacrifice marked the end of judgment and the beginning of mercy. The flood was over, and a new covenant of hope was established. God delights in showing mercy. Through Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice has provided forgiveness and reconciliation for all who believe in Him. There are also practical sacrifices that honour God today, including prayer, praise, thanksgiving, generosity, serving His kingdom, supporting His work, and living in obedience. "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually." (Hebrews 13:15 KJV) Whenever we draw near to God with sincere hearts, we position ourselves to experience His mercy and grace. 𝘾) 𝙃𝙊𝙒 𝙔𝙊𝙐𝙍 𝘼𝙇𝙏𝘼𝙍 𝘾𝘼𝙉 𝘽𝙀𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙀 𝘼 𝙏𝙀𝙎𝙏𝙄𝙈𝙊𝙉𝙔 𝘽𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙍𝙀 𝙂𝙊𝘿 An altar is more than a place of prayer. It is a place of surrender, worship, thanksgiving, and communion with God. As you consistently maintain your altar through prayer, the study of God's Word, praise, holy living, and faithful giving, your life becomes a testimony of God's faithfulness. Cornelius was another example of a man whose prayers and generous giving were remembered before God. "Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God." (Acts 10:4 KJV) God is not unjust to forget your labour of love. He remembers every sincere act done for His glory. 𝙇𝙄𝙁𝙀 𝘼𝙋𝙋𝙇𝙄𝘾𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 Many believers have experienced seasons when they felt unnoticed despite their faithfulness. Yet God's timing is always perfect. Noah waited patiently, remained obedient, and honoured God first when his season changed. Continue serving God faithfully. Continue praying, praising, giving, and living a life that pleases Him. Your labour in the Lord is never in vain, and in His appointed time, He will reward faithfulness according to His perfect wisdom. 𝑷𝑹𝑨𝒀𝑬𝑹 𝑷𝑶𝑰𝑵𝑻𝑺 1. O Lord, remember my labour of love and let my sacrifice speak before You, in the name of Jesus Christ. 2. Father, let every season of delay and hardship come to an end by Your mercy, in the name of Jesus Christ. 3. O Lord, make my life a living sacrifice that is holy and acceptable before You, in the name of Jesus Christ. 4. Father, let my prayers, praise, and faithful service rise before You as a sweet savour, in the name of Jesus Christ. 5. Every blessing delayed in my life, receive divine remembrance today, in the name of Jesus Christ. 6. O Lord, establish a new season of favour, restoration, and testimony in my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. 7. Father, let my altar continually bring glory to Your name and become a testimony of Your faithfulness, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. If this message has blessed you, kindly like, comment, share, and follow for more life transforming messages on prayer, deliverance, and Christian living. #ChristianLiving #PrayerAltar #FaithInGod #SpiritualGrowth SHALOM ✋

The Story Behind the Hymns. THE STORY BEHIND "ETERNAL FATHER, STRONG TO SAVE" Known around the world as "The Navy Hymn," Eternal Father, Strong to Save was written in 1860 by William Whiting (1825–1878), an English Anglican churchman. As a young man, Whiting narrowly survived a violent storm at sea, an experience that left a lasting impression on him and inspired his lifelong trust in God's protection over those who travel the oceans. The hymn draws heavily from biblical accounts of God's power over the waters, including the creation narrative, the crossing of the Red Sea, Jonah's ordeal, and Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee. Its opening line, "Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm hath bound the restless wave," reflects the conviction that God alone rules over the sea and can preserve those in danger. In 1861, the hymn was paired with the stirring tune "Melita," composed by John Bacchus Dykes. The name Melita is the ancient name for the island of Malta, where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked (Acts 28), making it a fitting musical companion to the text. Over the years, the hymn became closely associated with the Royal Navy, the United States Navy, and many other naval and maritime services around the world. It has been sung at naval graduations, remembrance services, military funerals, memorial ceremonies, and national occasions, offering comfort to sailors, coastguards, mariners, fishermen, aviators, and their families. As technology advanced, additional verses were written to pray for those who travel by air, serve in submarines, or explore space, while preserving the hymn's central message: that God's protection extends over every part of His creation. More than 160 years after it was written, Eternal Father, Strong to Save remains a timeless prayer of faith, reminding believers that no storm is greater than the God who commands the winds and the waves.

Acts 10: "1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. 9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: 10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. 17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. 21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? 22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. 23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. 25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. 27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."

Daily Bible Lesson. THE SEVENTH-DAY SABBATH IS GOD'S SIGN OF FAITH, CREATION & SANCTIFICATION. "Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." — Exodus 31:13 Many Christians sincerely love Jesus, yet when the Sabbath is discussed, the conversation often turns immediately to law vs. grace. "We are not under the law." "Keeping the Sabbath is legalism." "We are saved by faith, not works." While salvation is indeed by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), many overlook one very important truth: The Sabbath is not merely about law—it is a sign of faith in God's power to sanctify His people. 1. THE SABBATH WAS ESTABLISHED AT CREATION Genesis 2:1-3 Before there was: Any Jew Any nation Any sin Any ceremony God Himself: Rested Blessed Sanctified the seventh day The weekly cycle comes directly from Creation. The Creator declared one specific day to be holy time. 2. JESUS IS LORD OF THE SABBATH Mark 2:27-28 "The Sabbath was made for man... therefore the Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath." Notice carefully: Jesus did not say... "The Sabbath was made for the Jews." He said: "The Sabbath was made for MAN." It is God's loving gift to all humanity. 3. GOD'S HOLINESS MAKES THE SABBATH HOLY Isaiah 6:3 God is holy. Exodus 3:5 God's presence made even the ground before Moses holy. Likewise... God's presence makes the seventh day holy. The Sabbath is holy because God sanctified it with His own presence. 4. THE SABBATH POINTS TO GOD'S SANCTIFYING WORK Exodus 31:13 God says: "...that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." The Sabbath is more than a memorial of Creation. It is also a reminder that: God created us. God redeems us. God sanctifies us. God alone makes us holy. Keeping the Sabbath is therefore an expression of faith, not self-righteousness. 5. THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT POINTS BACK TO CREATION Exodus 20:8-11 Why should we remember the Sabbath? Because... "In six days the LORD made heaven and earth..." The commandment points directly back to Creation—not merely to Israel. The Sabbath reminds us every week that: God is our Creator. God is our Redeemer. God is our Sanctifier. 6. THE SABBATH WAS MADE BEFORE SIN At Creation there were: No Jews No ceremonies No sacrifices No sin Yet... The Sabbath already existed. This proves it was given for all mankind—not just one nation. 7. THE SABBATH CONTINUES INTO THE NEW EARTH Isaiah 66:22-23 The Bible says that in the new heavens and new earth: "From one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before Me." The Sabbath was present: At Creation Before sin During redemption In the New Earth 8. THE SABBATH IS ABOUT DELIGHT—NOT BURDEN Isaiah 58:13-14 God calls His people to: Call the Sabbath a delight Honor Him Put aside worldly pleasures The promise? Joy in the Lord. Spiritual refreshment. God's richest blessings. 9. TRUE SABBATH KEEPING REQUIRES FAITH Sadly... Some reject the Sabbath completely. Others merely "keep Saturday" without understanding its purpose. True Sabbath keeping is more than avoiding work. It means: Meeting with God. Trusting His Word. Seeking His presence. Allowing Him to sanctify our lives. The Sabbath is not about earning salvation. It is about trusting the One who saves. 10. THE SABBATH IS A TEST OF OUR FAITH The Bible teaches: We are saved by grace through faith. But genuine faith believes God's Word. If God declares: "The seventh day is My holy day." Faith responds: "Lord, because You said it, I believe and obey." The Sabbath becomes a visible sign that our confidence is in God's authority, not human tradition. HOW DO WE KNOW SATURDAY IS STILL THE BIBLICAL SEVENTH DAY? Many ask whether today's Saturday is the same seventh day mentioned in Scripture. The evidence is strong: Many world languages preserve the name "Sabbath" for Saturday (such as Sábado, Sabato, Subbota, and similar forms). The Jewish people have preserved the seventh-day Sabbath from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset for thousands of years. Sunday-keeping Christians have consistently recognized Sunday as the first day of the week, confirming the continuity of the weekly cycle. Modern calendar studies show that although calendars and dates have changed over history, the uninterrupted seven-day weekly cycle has remained intact. FINAL APPEAL The great question is not merely: "Should I keep a law?" The greater question is: Do I trust God's Word? Do I acknowledge Him as my Creator? Do I believe He alone can sanctify me? The seventh-day Sabbath is God's gift to humanity—a weekly reminder that He is our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier. May we place our faith completely in Jesus Christ and honor Him according to His Word. "We are saved by grace through faith." (Ephesians 2:8-9) "The just shall live by faith." (Romans 1:17) "It is a sign... that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." (Exodus 31:13) Choose God's Word over human tradition, and delight in the holy day that He made for all mankind.

Daily Bible Lesson. THE SEVENTH-DAY SABBATH IS GOD'S SIGN OF FAITH, CREATION & SANCTIFICATION. "Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." — Exodus 31:13 Many Christians sincerely love Jesus, yet when the Sabbath is discussed, the conversation often turns immediately to law vs. grace. "We are not under the law." "Keeping the Sabbath is legalism." "We are saved by faith, not works." While salvation is indeed by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), many overlook one very important truth: The Sabbath is not merely about law—it is a sign of faith in God's power to sanctify His people. 1. THE SABBATH WAS ESTABLISHED AT CREATION Genesis 2:1-3 Before there was: Any Jew Any nation Any sin Any ceremony God Himself: Rested Blessed Sanctified the seventh day The weekly cycle comes directly from Creation. The Creator declared one specific day to be holy time. 2. JESUS IS LORD OF THE SABBATH Mark 2:27-28 "The Sabbath was made for man... therefore the Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath." Notice carefully: Jesus did not say... "The Sabbath was made for the Jews." He said: "The Sabbath was made for MAN." It is God's loving gift to all humanity. 3. GOD'S HOLINESS MAKES THE SABBATH HOLY Isaiah 6:3 God is holy. Exodus 3:5 God's presence made even the ground before Moses holy. Likewise... God's presence makes the seventh day holy. The Sabbath is holy because God sanctified it with His own presence. 4. THE SABBATH POINTS TO GOD'S SANCTIFYING WORK Exodus 31:13 God says: "...that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." The Sabbath is more than a memorial of Creation. It is also a reminder that: God created us. God redeems us. God sanctifies us. God alone makes us holy. Keeping the Sabbath is therefore an expression of faith, not self-righteousness. 5. THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT POINTS BACK TO CREATION Exodus 20:8-11 Why should we remember the Sabbath? Because... "In six days the LORD made heaven and earth..." The commandment points directly back to Creation—not merely to Israel. The Sabbath reminds us every week that: God is our Creator. God is our Redeemer. God is our Sanctifier. 6. THE SABBATH WAS MADE BEFORE SIN At Creation there were: No Jews No ceremonies No sacrifices No sin Yet... The Sabbath already existed. This proves it was given for all mankind—not just one nation. 7. THE SABBATH CONTINUES INTO THE NEW EARTH Isaiah 66:22-23 The Bible says that in the new heavens and new earth: "From one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before Me." The Sabbath was present: At Creation Before sin During redemption In the New Earth 8. THE SABBATH IS ABOUT DELIGHT—NOT BURDEN Isaiah 58:13-14 God calls His people to: Call the Sabbath a delight Honor Him Put aside worldly pleasures The promise? Joy in the Lord. Spiritual refreshment. God's richest blessings. 9. TRUE SABBATH KEEPING REQUIRES FAITH Sadly... Some reject the Sabbath completely. Others merely "keep Saturday" without understanding its purpose. True Sabbath keeping is more than avoiding work. It means: Meeting with God. Trusting His Word. Seeking His presence. Allowing Him to sanctify our lives. The Sabbath is not about earning salvation. It is about trusting the One who saves. 10. THE SABBATH IS A TEST OF OUR FAITH The Bible teaches: We are saved by grace through faith. But genuine faith believes God's Word. If God declares: "The seventh day is My holy day." Faith responds: "Lord, because You said it, I believe and obey." The Sabbath becomes a visible sign that our confidence is in God's authority, not human tradition. HOW DO WE KNOW SATURDAY IS STILL THE BIBLICAL SEVENTH DAY? Many ask whether today's Saturday is the same seventh day mentioned in Scripture. The evidence is strong: Many world languages preserve the name "Sabbath" for Saturday (such as Sábado, Sabato, Subbota, and similar forms). The Jewish people have preserved the seventh-day Sabbath from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset for thousands of years. Sunday-keeping Christians have consistently recognized Sunday as the first day of the week, confirming the continuity of the weekly cycle. Modern calendar studies show that although calendars and dates have changed over history, the uninterrupted seven-day weekly cycle has remained intact. FINAL APPEAL The great question is not merely: "Should I keep a law?" The greater question is: Do I trust God's Word? Do I acknowledge Him as my Creator? Do I believe He alone can sanctify me? The seventh-day Sabbath is God's gift to humanity—a weekly reminder that He is our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier. May we place our faith completely in Jesus Christ and honor Him according to His Word. "We are saved by grace through faith." (Ephesians 2:8-9) "The just shall live by faith." (Romans 1:17) "It is a sign... that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you." (Exodus 31:13) Choose God's Word over human tradition, and delight in the holy day that He made for all mankind.