The Parable of the Weeds, also known as the Parable of the Tares, is one of Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom of heaven found in Matthew 13:24-30. It provides a profound insight into the presence of both true and false believers within the church and offers us guidance on how to respond. This parable also helps us distinguish between false believers (tares) and false teachers, who play different roles within the body of Christ. The Parable Explained: Wheat and Tares Together In this parable, Jesus describes a man who sows good seed (wheat) in his field. However, while everyone was...
What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?
Let’s begin with the source of our morals. Where does our sense of right and wrong come from? Morality is not subjective or based on personal feelings; it’s objective, grounded in the very nature of God. The Lord has given us a moral law that defines what is right and what is wrong. It is written in Scripture and in the conscience of every person (Romans 2:15). God’s moral law is the standard by which we live, and His design for marriage and sexuality is clear: marriage is between one man and one woman. God's Design for Marriage From the very beginning, God established marriage as a...
The Church as the Salt of the Earth: A Biblical post
When Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men” (Matthew 5:13, NKJV), He used an analogy that resonated deeply with His first-century audience. Salt was not only a vital part of daily life but held significant symbolic meaning throughout Scripture. Understanding this metaphor is essential for grasping the Church’s role in the world and the seriousness of Christ’s warning about losing its “flavor.” The Uses of Salt in Biblical Times In ancient times,...
True Love: A Biblical Overview of What Love is
Let’s dive in today and talk about love—the kind of love that’s far deeper and more powerful than what the world often thinks. You see, biblical love isn’t just an emotion or a warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s not something that comes and goes based on our mood, like a Hallmark movie. It’s a choice, an action, and it’s rooted in the intentions of our hearts. Jesus made this clear when He said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13). Real love sacrifices. It serves. It acts. The Different Types of Love in the Bible In the New Testament, we...
The Body of Christ: Unity in Diversity
The concept of the Body of Christ is a powerful and beautiful image that illustrates how believers are called to function in unity, each contributing uniquely to the work and witness of the Church. This metaphor, used extensively in the New Testament, emphasizes that every believer has a distinct role and that no member is more important than another. Each part is essential, interdependent, and gifted by God for His purposes. Let’s explore what Scripture says about this profound truth. The Biblical Foundation: One Body, Many Parts Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians provides the most...
The Fruit of the Spirit: Evidence of the New Creation in Believers
The fruit of the Spirit is a well-known passage in the Bible that many Christians strive to understand and embody. Found in Galatians 5:22-23, it reads: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” One often overlooked detail is that “fruit” is singular, not plural, emphasizing that these are not separate traits from which believers pick and choose, but a unified whole that should be present in every Christian. This fruit is the evidence of the new nature given to those who are...
The Peace of God for Born-Again Believers: A Deep Dive into Biblical Peace
The Bible presents peace as a profound and enduring gift, distinct from joy or happiness. While joy and happiness are emotional responses often tied to circumstances, peace is an unchanging state of the heart that believers experience through their relationship with God. This peace, rooted in the character and promises of God, is a defining mark of born-again believers and is embodied perfectly in Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). In this study we will explore the nature of biblical peace, its difference from joy, and how it is manifested in the lives of those who follow...
Understanding the Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Purpose, Operation, and Present-Day Reality
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are a profound aspect of God’s work among His people, designed for the edification of the Church and the furtherance of His kingdom. These gifts, distinct from the fruit of the Holy Spirit, empower believers to serve others and fulfill their God-given purposes. To fully understand these gifts and their application today, we must explore their nature, purpose, and how they manifest in the present age. What Are the Gifts of the Holy Spirit? The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are spiritual endowments given to believers for the building up of the body of Christ. The...
The Difference Between the Lord’s Tests and Satan’s Temptations
In our journey of faith, it’s essential to recognize the distinct ways in which the Lord tests His people and how Satan tempts them. Understanding this difference not only helps us discern our spiritual challenges but strengthens our faith during trials and temptations. The Nature of Temptation: Temptation is a tool used by Satan to lead people into sin. His ultimate goal is to draw believers away from God’s will and into disobedience. The Bible shows us many examples of Satan's temptations, highlighting his cunning and relentless pursuit of the faithful. The Temptation of Eve (Genesis...
Understanding Tithing: From Melchizedek to Christian Stewardship
Tithing is a significant topic in Scripture, rooted in the Old Testament and practiced by Israel as a part of their covenant relationship with God. However, in the New Testament, the concept of tithing shifts, emphasizing a heart of generosity rather than adherence to a fixed percentage. As believers in Jesus Christ, we understand that tithing as a legal obligation is no longer a part of the church’s mandate, yet the principles of stewardship and cheerful giving remain central to our faith. Let’s explore the journey of tithing through Scripture and understand its role in the life of a...