Throughout Scripture, believers are warned about the presence and influence of false teachers. These individuals claim to represent God while spreading lies and distortions of His Word. False teachers are not merely mistaken believers; they are intentional deceivers who actively lead others astray. Their teachings are dangerous because they misrepresent God’s character and truth, jeopardizing the spiritual well-being of those who follow them. In this study, we will examine what defines a false teacher, how they differ from sincere believers who hold false beliefs, and why Scripture...
Paul’s Greeting: Grace and Peace
Paul’s epistles consistently open with the greeting of “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” This phrase is not merely a formality or cultural custom—it carries profound theological meaning. The order of grace followed by peace is deliberate, reflecting the foundational truth of the gospel: only through the grace of God can we experience true peace. In this study, we will examine how Paul uses this greeting in his letters, why the sequence is significant, and what it teaches us about God’s relationship with believers. We will also identify the slight...
Lamps Filled with Oil: A Symbol of the Holy Spirit
Oil is a recurring symbol throughout Scripture, often representing the Holy Spirit, His presence, and His work. From anointing kings and priests in the Old Testament to Jesus’ parable of the virgins with oil in their lamps, this imagery carries deep theological significance. Oil is linked to consecration, empowerment, healing, and illumination—all attributes of the Holy Spirit’s role in the lives of believers. This study will explore the biblical use of oil, focusing on its symbolic connection to the Holy Spirit. We will examine key passages, from anointing rituals in the Old Testament to...
Fishers of Men: Our Call to Evangelism
When Jesus called His first disciples, He used an analogy that transformed their understanding of their lives and purpose. These men were fishermen by trade, laboring to gather fish from the waters of Galilee. But Jesus redefined their mission, saying, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). This call was not just for them but for all believers, as we are commissioned to labor in gathering people into God’s kingdom. In this study, we will explore the concept of being “fishers of men” as Jesus presented it. We’ll examine what it means to bring people into the...
Jesus the Good Shepherd: Symbolism of Shepherding Throughout the Bible
The image of the shepherd is one of the most enduring and profound metaphors in Scripture. Shepherding is used to describe God's relationship with His people, the ministry of Jesus Christ, and the responsibilities of spiritual leaders. From the Old Testament patriarchs to Jesus’ declaration as the “Good Shepherd,” this theme reveals God’s care, guidance, and protection over His flock. This study will explore the role of shepherds in Scripture, their connection to Jesus as the Good Shepherd, and the rich symbolism of shepherding in the life of believers. Old Testament Shepherds:...
The Apostle Paul: An Unwavering Life Devoted to Christ
The Apostle Paul is one of the most significant figures in Christian history, second only to Jesus Christ. Once a fierce persecutor of the church, Paul became its greatest missionary, theologian, and writer. His life is a vivid demonstration of the transformative power of God’s grace. From his early days as Saul of Tarsus to his martyrdom in Rome, Paul’s journey reflects God’s redemptive plan for humanity and His ability to use the least likely candidate to accomplish His purposes. Saul of Tarsus: Early Life and Education Saul was born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, known for its...
Matthew 24-25: Signs of the End, Multiple Questions, and the Coming of the Son of Man
Matthew 24 is Jesus’ profound response to His disciples’ questions about the end of the age, delivered on the Mount of Olives. It begins with Jesus predicting the destruction of the temple: “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down” (Matthew 24:2). This prophecy was fulfilled in A.D. 70 when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem. The disciples, perplexed, asked three questions in Matthew 24:3: “When will these things be?” “What will be the sign of Your coming?” “And of the end of the age?” Jesus...
The Gospel: The Good News of Salvation by Faith
What Does the Gospel Mean? The word “gospel” comes from the Greek euangelion, which translates as "good news" or "glad tidings." It is the proclamation of the greatest news humanity has ever received. However, to fully grasp why this news is so good, we must first confront the bad news: we are all sinners under the righteous wrath of God. As Romans 3:23 states, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Our sin separates us from our Creator, and we are incapable of saving ourselves. Isaiah 59:2 declares, “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins...
The Armor of God: Equipped for Victory
This is one of the most practical and powerful teachings in Scripture: the armor of God. Found in Ephesians 6:10-18, this passage paints a vivid picture of how we, as believers, are equipped to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. Let’s walk through each piece of armor, explaining its meaning, its Old Testament roots, and how we can apply it in our daily lives. The Belt of Truth Paul starts by saying, “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth” (Ephesians 6:14). The belt was essential for a Roman soldier; it secured all the other pieces of armor and held everything...