Abortion is a deeply polarizing topic in our world today, but as followers of Christ, we look to the Word of God for truth. What does the Bible say about life, the unborn, and our responsibility as believers? Let’s explore Scripture, scientific evidence, and the ethical reality of abortion together.
God’s Image in Every Human Life
The Bible begins with a profound declaration in Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” This truth defines our value as human beings. We are made in God’s image, distinct from all creation. This isn’t a random biological occurrence; it’s divine intention. Every human life reflects the Creator, making each one sacred.
God Knows Us Before We Are Born
God’s Word shows His intimate knowledge of us, even before we enter this world. In Jeremiah 1:5, He says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you.” This speaks of God’s purpose and plan for every person, crafted before we take our first breath. Psalm 139:13-14 echoes this truth: “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” God’s creation is not an accident, and neither is the life growing within the womb.
Life in the Womb is Recognized by God
In Luke 1:41, we read a beautiful encounter: “And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb.” John the Baptist, still in his mother’s womb, responded to the presence of Jesus. This demonstrates that the unborn child is not a mere “fetus” but a living, spiritual being capable of responding to the presence of God.
Scientific Evidence of Life in the Womb
The term “fetus” comes from Latin, meaning “offspring” or “young one.” It does not denote a non-human entity; it is simply a stage of development, just like “infant” or “toddler.” By 21 days, the baby’s heart begins to beat. By 8 weeks, brain activity is detectable, and the baby has all major organs. By 12 weeks, the baby can respond to touch and feel pain. The evidence is clear: life begins at conception, and this life is active and developing long before birth.
God Hates the Shedding of Innocent Blood
The Bible explicitly condemns the taking of innocent life. In Exodus 20:13, the Lord commands, “You shall not murder.” Proverbs 6:16-17 lists “hands that shed innocent blood” as one of the things the Lord hates. Abortion is the deliberate termination of a life that God is actively forming. It is the shedding of innocent blood, and it stands in direct opposition to God’s commandment.
The Lies of the Abortion Industry
The abortion industry often markets itself as a champion of women’s health and freedom. Yet, the physical and emotional consequences tell a different story. Women who have had abortions can face severe physical complications, such as infection, hemorrhage, and even infertility. The psychological impact is profound, with many women experiencing long-term depression, anxiety, and a deep sense of loss. Abortion does not heal; it harms.
Healthcare Is Meant to Save Lives, Not End Them
We hear the argument that abortion is healthcare, but let’s consider what healthcare truly is. Healthcare is designed to preserve and protect life. It is contradictory to call the intentional ending of a human life “care.” Our legal system reflects this inconsistency. If a pregnant woman is harmed in an accident caused by a drunk driver, and the baby dies, it is often prosecuted as a double homicide. Yet, if the mother chooses to terminate the pregnancy, it is seen as a “right.” This logical inconsistency reveals the hypocrisy within the pro-abortion argument.
God Values Life, and So Should We
The Lord’s heart is for life. In Deuteronomy 30:19, He pleads with His people: “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.” The value God places on life is evident throughout Scripture. Children are seen as a gift, a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3), and we are called to protect and cherish them.
My Final Thoughts
We live in a society that often disregards the sanctity of life, but we are called to be different. As Christians, we must stand up for the unborn, the voiceless, the ones who cannot defend themselves. Proverbs 31:8-9 instructs us: “Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” Defending life is not just a political stance; it’s a biblical mandate.
If you or someone you know has been affected by abortion, know this: the Lord’s grace and forgiveness are available. In 1 John 1:9, it says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” God loves you deeply, and His heart is for restoration and healing.
The Ark of the Covenant is one of the most mysterious and powerful objects described in the Bible. It was more than just a sacred box; it was a symbol of God’s presence, His covenant with Israel, and a powerful instrument of His divine will. In this study, we will explore the dimensions of the Ark, its construction, contents, purpose, and the events surrounding it throughout Scripture.
The Dimensions and Instructions for the Ark
God gave specific instructions for the construction of the Ark of the Covenant to Moses on Mount Sinai. In Exodus 25:10-11, we read:
“And they shall make an ark of acacia wood; two and a half cubits shall be its length, a cubit and a half its width, and a cubit and a half its height. And you shall overlay it with pure gold, inside and out you shall overlay it, and shall make on it a molding of gold all around.”
The dimensions in modern measurements are approximately:
- Length: 3.75 feet (1.14 meters)
- Width: 2.25 feet (0.69 meters)
- Height: 2.25 feet (0.69 meters)
The Ark was made of acacia wood, a durable and incorruptible wood, and overlaid with pure gold. It was a beautiful, yet humble, reminder of God’s presence among His people.
The Mercy Seat and God’s Presence
On top of the Ark was the Mercy Seat, a solid gold lid with two cherubim facing each other. The cherubim’s wings were outstretched, and it was between these wings that the presence of God, or the Shekinah glory, dwelled (Exodus 25:22):
“And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony.”
In the Holy of Holies, the most sacred place in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), the Ark was the focal point of God’s manifest presence. God’s voice would speak to Moses from the space between the cherubim, symbolizing His throne on earth (Psalm 99:1).
What Was Inside the Ark?
The Ark contained three sacred items, as listed in Hebrews 9:4:
- The Tablets of the Law: The stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 10:2).
- Aaron’s Rod that Budded: A symbol of God’s chosen leadership (Numbers 17:8-10).
- A Golden Pot of Manna: A reminder of God’s provision in the wilderness (Exodus 16:32-34).
These contents represented God’s covenant, His authority, and His provision for Israel.
How Was the Ark Transported?
The Ark was designed with rings on its sides, through which acacia wood poles, overlaid with gold, were inserted (Exodus 25:12-15). The poles were never to be removed, and the Ark was to be carried only by the Levites, specifically the Kohathites (Numbers 4:15). The Ark was never to be touched directly, as it was holy. The Levites were instructed to cover the Ark with a veil and animal skins before transporting it (Numbers 4:5-6).
The people of Israel were required to keep a safe distance from the Ark. In Joshua 3:4, when the Ark led Israel across the Jordan River, the people were instructed to stand about 2,000 cubits (approximately 3,000 feet or 0.56 miles) away from it, underscoring the reverence and fear associated with the Ark.
The Ark as a Weapon: Divine Power and Judgments
The Ark of the Covenant was more than a sacred object; it was a powerful manifestation of God’s presence, often acting as a divine weapon. In 1 Samuel 4-5, we see the Philistines capturing the Ark in battle. However, instead of bringing them victory, the Ark brought devastation:
- The Philistines placed the Ark in the temple of their god Dagon, only to find their idol fallen and broken before the Ark (1 Samuel 5:2-4).
- God struck the Philistines with tumors and plagues, causing great fear and prompting them to return the Ark to Israel (1 Samuel 5:6-12).
When the Ark was returned to Israel, it was placed in Beth Shemesh. However, some men of the town looked inside the Ark, contrary to God’s command. As a result, God struck down 50,070 men (1 Samuel 6:19). This incident demonstrates the Ark’s power and the severe consequences of irreverence toward God’s holy presence.
The Death of Uzzah: The Power of the Ark
In 2 Samuel 6:6-7, we read about the tragic incident involving Uzzah:
“And when they came to Nachon’s threshing floor, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. Then the anger of the Lord was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him there for his error; and he died there by the ark of God.”
The Ark was being transported improperly on a cart, rather than being carried by the Levites as God commanded. This act of disobedience exposed Uzzah to the raw, holy power of God’s anger, leading to his death.
The Ark’s Journeys: A History of Exchanges
The Ark changed hands several times throughout Israel’s history:
- Captured by the Philistines: Taken in battle (1 Samuel 4).
- Returned to Israel: Due to divine afflictions (1 Samuel 6).
- Stored in Kiriath Jearim: Kept for 20 years (1 Samuel 7:1-2).
- Brought to Jerusalem by David: Amidst great celebration (2 Samuel 6:12-15).
- Placed in Solomon’s Temple: In the Holy of Holies (1 Kings 8:6-9).
God’s Presence and Lightning
God often manifests His presence through lightning and powerful electrical displays. In Exodus 19:16, when God descended upon Mount Sinai, there was thunder and lightning. In Revelation 4:5, we see a description of God’s throne room:
“And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices.”
The Ark itself may have carried an electrical or divine charge, explaining why touching it brought instant death, as seen with Uzzah.
Where Is the Ark Now?
The last biblical mention of the Ark is in 2 Chronicles 35:3, during the reign of King Josiah. After the destruction of Solomon’s Temple, the Ark’s location became a mystery. Some possible theories include:
- Hidden by Jeremiah: Before the Babylonian conquest.
- Taken to Ethiopia: According to Ethiopian tradition.
- Hidden in a cave beneath the Temple Mount: Awaiting the time of the Messiah.
Revelation 11:19 also mentions an Ark seen in the heavenly temple, which may symbolize the true Ark of God’s covenant.
My Final Thoughts
The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in Israel, representing God’s presence, His covenant, and His power. It was a sign of His throne on earth, a powerful weapon against Israel’s enemies, and a reminder of the holiness of God. As we consider its history, we are reminded of the awe and reverence due to God, whose presence dwelled between the cherubim.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we are introduced to the Magi, mysterious wise men from the East who embarked on a journey to find the newborn King of the Jews. This story is rich with prophecy, symbolism, and divine orchestration. Let’s dive deep into Scripture to uncover who the Magi were, the significance of the gifts they brought, and how their journey was guided by God’s Word.
Who Were the Magi?
The term “Magi” comes from the Greek word magoi, which refers to a group of wise men, astrologers, or scholars. These men were experts in astronomy, dream interpretation, and ancient texts. The Magi were likely from Persia or Babylon, areas influenced by Jewish teachings during the Babylonian captivity. Daniel, a prophet who held a high position among the wise men of Babylon, would have left a significant legacy. In Daniel 2:48, we read:
“Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts; and he made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon.”
Because of Daniel’s influence, the Magi would have been familiar with Jewish prophecies concerning the Messiah. The Bible does not specify how many Magi visited Jesus; traditionally, it is assumed there were three because of the three gifts presented. However, Scripture does not give a number. It is likely there were more, as a large entourage would have been expected for such a significant and dangerous journey.
How Did the Magi Know About the Star?
The Magi were well-versed in the ancient prophecies and had an extraordinary knowledge of the night sky. In Matthew 2:2, they say:
“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
This was not a typical star. It was a supernatural sign, a divine light guiding them directly to Jesus. The Magi’s understanding likely came from their study of prophecies such as Numbers 24:17, spoken by Balaam:
“I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel.”
This prophecy foretells a star associated with a coming king. The Magi, influenced by Jewish teachings and perhaps by Daniel’s own prophecies (Daniel 9:24-27), would have recognized the significance of this star as heralding the birth of the Messiah. It was a light sent by God to announce the arrival of the true King.
The Gifts of the Magi: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh
Upon arriving at the house where Jesus was, the Magi worshiped Him and presented three significant gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). Each gift holds prophetic meaning and reveals deep truths about the nature and mission of Jesus.
- Gold: Gold was the gift for a king, symbolizing royalty and divinity. Throughout Scripture, gold is associated with kingship and wealth. In 1 Kings 10:10, the Queen of Sheba brought gold as a gift to King Solomon. By presenting gold, the Magi acknowledged Jesus as the King of kings (Revelation 19:16), recognizing His authority over all creation.
- Frankincense: Frankincense is a fragrant resin used in worship and was a key ingredient in the incense burned in the Temple (Exodus 30:34-38). This gift symbolizes Jesus’ priestly role as our High Priest who intercedes for us before God (Hebrews 4:14-16). It represents worship and prayer, pointing to Jesus as the divine Mediator between God and humanity.
- Myrrh: Myrrh was a costly spice used in anointing oils and for embalming. It was associated with death and burial, as seen when Nicodemus brought myrrh to anoint Jesus’ body after His crucifixion (John 19:39). The gift of myrrh foreshadowed Jesus’ sacrificial death, indicating that this King came to die for the sins of the world. Myrrh symbolizes the suffering Servant who would lay down His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).
The Magi’s Encounter with Herod
When the Magi arrived in Jerusalem, they asked, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?” (Matthew 2:2). This question troubled King Herod, who saw the birth of another king as a threat to his power. Herod summoned the Magi secretly, asking them to report back once they found the child, pretending he wanted to worship Him as well (Matthew 2:7-8).
However, the Magi, discerning Herod’s true intentions, did not comply. After they found Jesus and worshiped Him, God warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. They departed for their own country by another route (Matthew 2:12). This act of obedience preserved the life of the Messiah and thwarted Herod’s evil plan, revealing the Magi’s commitment to God’s guidance over human authority.
Prophecy Fulfilled: Knowing the Timing and Location
The Magi’s journey was guided by prophecy. The location of the Messiah’s birth was foretold in Micah 5:2:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.”
The timing of the Messiah’s arrival was likely understood through Daniel’s prophecy of the “Seventy Weeks” (Daniel 9:24-27), which provided a clear timeline pointing to the coming of the Anointed One. The Magi, well-versed in these prophecies, recognized the significance of the time and the appearance of the star.
My Final Thoughts
The account of the Magi is a testament to the faith and obedience of those who earnestly seek the Lord. They traveled great distances, guided by prophecy and divine revelation, to find and worship the true King. Despite Herod’s deceitful intentions, the Magi chose to obey God rather than man, preserving the life of the Savior.
The Magi remind us that Jesus is not just a king among kings; He is the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 17:14). He is the true Light of the world, and those who seek Him will find Him, just as the Magi did.
As we reflect on their journey, may we be inspired to seek Jesus with the same diligence and to worship Him with all our hearts, recognizing Him as our King, our High Priest, and our Savior.
Jezebel is one of the most infamous characters in the Bible. Her very name has become synonymous with manipulation, control, and outright rebellion against God. This study will examine Jezebel’s life, her actions, her death, and the spiritual implications of her character. By understanding who Jezebel was and what she represents, we can gain insight into the dangers of her spirit that still operates in the world today.
Who Was Jezebel?
Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, the king of the Sidonians and a priest of Baal, a false god. Her marriage to King Ahab of Israel was a political alliance that brought Baal worship into Israel on a grand scale (1 Kings 16:31). Jezebel was not an ordinary queen; she was a ruthless, power-hungry woman who sought to dominate her husband and the kingdom. Her influence led to one of the most spiritually dark times in Israel’s history.
The Marriage of Ahab and Jezebel: Control and Manipulation
Jezebel’s marriage to Ahab was the beginning of a toxic and unholy partnership. Ahab was the seventh king of Israel, and Scripture describes him as one who “did evil in the sight of the Lord, more than all who were before him” (1 Kings 16:30). However, Ahab’s wickedness was amplified by Jezebel’s influence. The Bible says: “There was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord, because Jezebel his wife stirred him up” (1 Kings 21:25).
Jezebel manipulated her husband, controlled his decisions, and led him into deeper idolatry. She had no regard for God’s laws or the prophets of the Lord. Instead, she established Baal worship as the official religion of Israel, building altars and high places to this false god (1 Kings 16:32-33). Ahab, rather than being a strong and godly leader, became passive and allowed Jezebel to rule over him.
Jezebel’s Persecution of God’s Prophets
Jezebel’s hatred for the worship of Yehova was fierce. She began a campaign of extermination against the prophets of the Lord. The Bible records: “Jezebel massacred the prophets of the Lord” (1 Kings 18:4). She sought to wipe out any trace of true worship in Israel, replacing it with Baal worship.
The most notable confrontation was with the prophet Elijah, who stood as a lone voice against the idolatry and wickedness of Ahab and Jezebel. Elijah boldly confronted Ahab, declaring that a severe drought would come upon the land as judgment for their sins (1 Kings 17:1). Jezebel’s response was to hunt down Elijah and kill him. Elijah fled for his life, showing just how dangerous Jezebel’s wrath could be (1 Kings 19:2-3).
The Battle on Mount Carmel: Elijah vs. Jezebel’s Prophets
The conflict between Elijah and Jezebel’s false prophets reached its climax on Mount Carmel. Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to a showdown, declaring: “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). The prophets of Baal, numbering 450, failed to call down fire from their god, but Elijah prayed, and the Lord answered by sending fire from heaven (1 Kings 18:38). This powerful display proved that the Lord is the true God.
After the victory, Elijah ordered the execution of the false prophets, further enraging Jezebel. She vowed to kill Elijah, saying: “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:2). Elijah, exhausted and fearful, fled into the wilderness, showing the extent of Jezebel’s power and influence.
Jezebel’s Manipulation and the Naboth Incident
Jezebel’s wickedness extended beyond religious persecution. She was also deeply corrupt in her use of power, as seen in the account of Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21). Ahab desired the vineyard of Naboth, but Naboth refused to sell it because it was his family’s inheritance. Ahab sulked and pouted like a child, and Jezebel stepped in, saying: “Do you now govern Israel? Arise, eat food, and let your heart be cheerful; I will give you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite” (1 Kings 21:7).
Jezebel devised a wicked plan. She wrote letters in Ahab’s name, sealing them with his seal, and instructed the elders of Naboth’s city to falsely accuse him of blasphemy. They followed her orders, and Naboth was stoned to death. Jezebel then took possession of the vineyard and gave it to Ahab. This incident shows her ruthless nature and her willingness to lie, manipulate, and even murder to get what she wanted.
The Prophecy Against Jezebel and Her Death
The Lord, through the prophet Elijah, pronounced judgment against Ahab and Jezebel because of their wickedness. Elijah declared: “The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel” (1 Kings 21:23). This was a shocking and graphic prophecy, showing the severity of God’s judgment on her.
Years later, this prophecy came to pass. Jezebel continued her reign of terror until the rise of Jehu, whom God anointed to bring justice. In 2 Kings 9, Jehu rode to Jezreel to confront her. When Jezebel heard of his arrival, she painted her eyes, adorned her head, and looked out of the window, showing her defiance and pride. Jehu commanded her servants to throw her down from the window. They obeyed, and Jezebel fell to her death. The Bible says: “And when they went to bury her, they found no more of her than the skull and the feet and the palms of her hands” (2 Kings 9:35). The dogs had eaten her flesh, fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy.
Jezebel’s Legacy: The Spirit of Jezebel Today
Jezebel’s spirit did not die with her. In the New Testament, Jesus rebukes the church in Thyatira for tolerating “that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols” (Revelation 2:20). This reference shows that the spirit of Jezebel is not just a person, but a demonic influence characterized by manipulation, control, idolatry, and rebellion against God’s authority.
The spirit of Jezebel often manifests in those who seek to dominate and control others, particularly in the church. It operates through manipulation, fear, and false teaching, seeking to lead God’s people away from the truth and into idolatry and immorality. We must be vigilant and discerning, refusing to tolerate this spirit in our lives and communities.
My Final Thoughts
Jezebel’s life serves as a stark warning about the dangers of unchecked sin, manipulation, and rebellion against God. Her end was gruesome, and her legacy is one of shame. But it also shows us the power of God’s justice and the fulfillment of His Word.
James 4:6 says: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Jezebel’s pride and arrogance led to her downfall, while humble servants like Elijah, despite their fears, were used mightily by God. We must choose whom we will serve: will we walk in humility before the Lord, or will we follow the path of Jezebel, seeking our own desires and rejecting God’s authority?
