The Hidden WRECKAGE of “No Strings Attached”: How CASUAL SEX Hijacks Your Brain, SHATTERS Bonds, and Opens Doors to DARKNESS

Imagine this: You’re scrolling Tinder at 2 a.m., swiping right on a spark that promises freedom—no commitments, just vibes. It’s 2026, after all. Apps are smarter, hookups are “empowering,” and everyone swears it’s consequence-free. But what if that midnight thrill is quietly etching tattoos on your soul, brain, and spirit? What if the Bible’s 2,000-year-old warning in 1 Corinthians 6:18—“Flee from sexual immorality/Fornication. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body”—isn’t prudish scolding, but a prophetic blueprint for neurochemical chaos, relational ruin, and spiritual sabotage?

Buckle up. We’re diving into the jaw-dropping science and Scripture that prove casual sex isn’t liberation—it’s a slow-motion demolition of your deepest wiring. Backed by fresh 2025 studies and timeless truth, this isn’t guilt-tripping; it’s a wake-up call from the God who designed your desires and the labs decoding them.

1. Your Brain’s “Love Glue” Turns Toxic: The Oxytocin Trap

Sex isn’t just friction—it’s fusion. In the heat of the moment, your hypothalamus unleashes oxytocin, the “cuddle hormone” that floods your system like a chemical covenant. As psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Insel has shown through decades of research—from prairie voles’ lifelong monogamy to human pair-bonding—this “bonding molecule” is crucial for deep, enduring relationships, surging during orgasm, touch, and intimacy to forge neural imprints of attachment and memory. It’s divine superglue: One release, and your brain whispers, This person is your person. It’s why prairie voles (those furry fidelity champs) mate for life after one romp—their oxytocin receptors lock in like divine superglue.

In marriage? Pure poetry. Couples report sky-high satisfaction, empathy, and resilience, with oxytocin syncing heart rates and trust levels for decades. But casual? It’s heartbreak in hormone form. Without commitment, oxytocin creates “ghost attachments”—phantom bonds that haunt your next swipe. Women, especially, show amplified effects: post-hookup, their brains amp selectivity and regret, making future pair-bonding 20-30% harder due to desensitized receptors.

A 2025 review shatters myths: Oxytocin isn’t just “love”—it’s a double-edged sword. In uncommitted flings, it spikes joy mid-act but crashes into cortisol-fueled anxiety afterward, eroding emotional regulation and spiking depression risks by 40% in frequent casual daters. Systematic reviews confirm: Casual encounters yield mixed emotions—fleeting highs drowned in regret, loneliness, and attachment wounds that linger like emotional scar tissue.

The Hidden Mechanism: Endorphins’ Silent Sabotage

Here’s the gut-punch: Past flings don’t just fade—they rewrite your wiring. As Dr. Eric Keroack noted in his 2006 talk on relational trauma at the National Abstinence Clearinghouse Conference, breakups (especially after sex-fueled bonds) flood us with emotional pain—rejection, abandonment, grief. Our brains counter with endorphins, natural painkillers released in chronic physical or emotional distress to ease the ache. But here’s the catch: Chronic endorphin surges suppress oxytocin release, dulling our capacity for future oneness. Multiple heartbreaks? It’s like accruing a deficit—entering marriage with a diminished “super glue” reservoir, prone to shallower bonds, sadness, or depression. If there’s been an emotional connection through sexual intimacy, the imprint deepens: Every breakup accumulates more pain, reducing our ability to form lifelong attachments and echoing the “one flesh” fragmentation Paul warns of.

Biblically, this echoes Paul’s “one flesh” bombshell (1 Cor. 6:16): Even a prostitute’s bed mocks God’s marital blueprint from Genesis 2:24, yoking your spirit to fragmentation. Your body remembers—not as punishment, but design. Science whispers what Scripture shouts: Treat sex like a sacrament, or it becomes a saboteur.

2. The Devil’s Beachhead: From Shame Spirals to Life-Derailing Chaos

Why does the Bible single out sexual sin as uniquely “against your own body”? It’s not hierarchy—all hamartia (sin’s “missing the mark”) grieves God—but porneia (fornication) invades like a Trojan horse. It desecrates your body as the Holy Spirit’s temple (1 Cor. 6:19), inviting idolatry where pleasure idols eclipse the Creator. Unrepented, it cracks open Ephesians 4:27’s “foothold” for the enemy—a strategic foothold for accusation, addiction, and annihilation.

Psychologically? It’s a perfect storm. That post-sex oxytocin drop? It collides with dopamine withdrawal, birthing shame cycles that rewire your reward system for novelty over depth. Studies link multiple premarital partners to 50% higher divorce odds, not just from “loose values” but altered expectations: More partners mean lower marital bliss, amplified infidelity, and chronic dissatisfaction. A 2024 re-examination? Even controlling for demographics, each extra partner hikes instability by 5-10%—your brain’s comparison game turns “good enough” spouses into “not them.”

The fallout? Ineptitude across the board. Elevated anxiety (up 25% in high-partner cohorts), eroded self-esteem, and relational ineptness that spills into careers and friendships. Spiritually, it’s Proverbs 6:32’s “wounds and dishonor”—a leeway for demonic whispers: You’re unworthy. Chase the high. Destroy what’s left. Biblical voices warn of isolation, addiction, and legacy scars, mirroring modern tales of porn bondage and serial heartbreak. The enemy doesn’t need exorcism; he needs your unchecked urges.

3. The Radical Reboot: Grace, Neuroplasticity, and God’s Original Design

Here’s the plot twist that really drops jaws: You’re not doomed. Brains are plastic—rewireable masterpieces. Months of abstinence, covenant touch (hugs from friends, not flings), and therapy can rebuild oxytocin pathways, slashing regret by 60% and boosting bond capacity. Couples entering marriage “virgin to each other” (one lifetime partner)? They clock 20-30% higher satisfaction, lower divorce, and deeper intimacy—myth-busting the “experience equals expertise” lie.

Yet, as someone who’s counseled countless couples—abstinent or not—I’m convinced: Our Lord’s forgiveness restores what endorphins erode. Abstinence rebuilds the pathways; grace mends the imprints. I’m a proponent of staying abstinent as the ideal path, but I know that’s not always the story—and truly, our God is loving and forgiving, just as we can be to our spouses. We’ll work through the history, reclaiming oneness step by step.

Scripture seals it: “You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified” (1 Cor. 6:11). Joseph’s flight from Potiphar’s wife? It preserved his throne. Your flight? It unlocks freedom. Confess (1 John 1:9), pursue purity (2 Cor. 7:1), and watch grace graft you into wholeness—body, psyche, and soul.

The Mic Drop: Choose the Design, Not the Downgrade

In 2025’s swipe-right dystopia, casual sex sells as autonomy, but delivers atrophy. The Bible and biology agree: It’s a sin against you—rewiring trust, inviting torment, and mocking your made-for-more wiring. Yet redemption roars louder: Flee the trap, embrace the Temple life, and reclaim the bonds that outlast algorithms.

Jaw dropped yet? Share this with that friend mid-regret scroll. Or hit reply—what’s your foothold story? God’s got the reboot ready.

Sources & Further Reading

Scientific & Medical Insights

• Thomas Insel, M.D. – Former Director of the National Institute of Mental Health; extensive research on oxytocin and pair-bonding in voles and humans (see his work through NIH archives and Emory University publications).
• Eric Keroack, M.D. – “The Biochemistry of Relational Trauma and Healing,” presented at the National Abstinence Clearinghouse Conference, 2006.
• Studies on premarital partners and marital outcomes: Regnerus, M., & Uecker, J. (2011 onward updates); Teachman (2003); meta-analyses from Institute for Family Studies and Journal of Marriage and Family.
• Oxytocin/endorphin interaction and relational bonding: Various peer-reviewed reviews in Psychoneuroendocrinology and Biological Psychiatry (2020–2025).
• Neuroplasticity and recovery: Research from the American Psychological Association and journals like Frontiers in Psychology.

Biblical References (all NIV unless noted)
• 1 Corinthians 6:16–20
• Genesis 2:24
• Ephesians 4:27
• Proverbs 6:32
• 1 John 1:9
• 2 Corinthians 7:1

For a deeper dive into the science-faith intersection, consider books like Hooked by Joe McIlhaney & Freda Bush (updated editions) or Wired for Intimacy by William Struthers.

The THREE Fathers: A Journey of DISCERNMENT, Redemption, and Abundant LIFE

Every soul navigates a world shaped by three fatherly voices, each vying to define our identity, purpose, and destiny. The father of lies, Satan, whispers deception, cloaking destruction in the guise of freedom. His voice, as John 8:44 declares, is the origin of falsehood, seeking to impede souls from the life of God by ensnaring them in spiritual deadness. He exploits the potential for despair, tempting us with lies like “you are unworthy” or “you are alone,” aiming to bind us in darkness and separation from truth.

The earthly father, through whom we enter the world, shapes our early sense of self. Yet, as a fallen soul himself, he is subject to the law of sin and death (Romans 7:23), influenced by the devil’s deceit or his own human frailty. Some earthly fathers nurture, but others, swayed by sin or brokenness, may crush their children’s spirits, conditioning them to believe they are “good for nothing,” rejecting them outright, or leaving them as orphans—whether physically absent or emotionally distant, raised by others or left to fend for themselves. Even the best earthly fathers, bound by imperfection, cannot fully meet the soul’s deepest need for unconditional love.

Yet above these voices rises the Everlasting Father, God Almighty, whose love is boundless and whose presence is eternal. As Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, He is the Everlasting Father, and through His Son, Jesus Christ, He calls all souls to come to Him, that they might have life—life abundant and full (John 10:10). Unlike the father of lies, who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, or the earthly father, whose failures may wound, God pursues weary souls with a promise: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18). Through Jesus Christ, who paved the way for liberation from sin, the devil, and darkness, God offers salvation, adoption, and a restored identity as beloved children (Romans 8:15).

For those who walk in faith, a spiritual father—whether a mentor, pastor, or guide—may serve as a bridge to this divine truth. As Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 4:15, such figures facilitate rebirth into Christ, echoing the Everlasting Father’s call and guiding souls toward His light. These spiritual fathers, though imperfect, help navigate the journey from spiritual deadness to abundant life.

Life, then, is a journey of discernment and redemption: to reject the lies that bind, to forgive the earthly flaws that wound, and to answer the call of Jesus Christ to abundant life. The father of lies exists to thwart this journey, exploiting the spiritual deadness of souls to keep them from God’s truth. The earthly father, swayed by sin or brokenness, may reinforce these lies through rejection or failure. But the Everlasting Father, through His Son, seeks those weary souls, offering liberation from sin’s dominion and the devil’s deceit. Jesus’ invitation is clear: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

To choose the Everlasting Father is to embrace a transformative truth: that we are never alone, never forsaken, and always loved. It is to step into a destiny where lies are exposed, wounds are healed, and the soul finds its eternal home in the abundant life offered through Christ. This is the profound reality of God’s love—a love that pursues, redeems, and restores, calling every soul to rise above deception and brokenness into the fullness of His salvation.

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DEAD Men DON’T Choose: The Undeniable Truth of God’s GRACE

I’ve had it. Lately, I stumbled into a discussion tearing into Calvinism—its theology, its doctrines—and I’m not even a card-carrying Calvinist. I haven’t read his books, haven’t signed up for his club. I just try to follow the Scriptures and the Spirit of God. But what I saw incensed me: ignorance and sheer gall coming against the established Word, picking at gospel verses without context, tossing out the epistles like trash. It’s a butchery of truth, and I can’t shake it off. This battle’s raged for centuries—God’s sovereignty versus human free will—and it’s time to lay it down with the absolute, sledgehammer truth of Scripture. No more dancing around it.

Here’s the question: If we reject the points Calvinism leans on—total depravity, unconditional election, irresistible grace, all of it—what do we undo from the Word of God? Not just a system, but the Bible itself. I’m not here to defend a man-made label; I’m here to let God’s Word speak. And it’s screaming: we’re dead without Him, saved by Him, and He provides it all. Let’s hammer this home.

The Deadness: "Nekros" and Dry Bones

Start here: we’re dead. Not wounded, not limping—”nekros”. Ephesians 2:1—“You were “nekros” in your trespasses and sins.” That’s Greek for corpse. No pulse, no breath, no life. Romans 3:10-12 piles on: “None righteous, no one understands, no one seeks God. All have turned away.” Not some—”all”. Colossians 2:13—“You were “nekros” in your sins.” Dead men don’t choose. They don’t seek. They rot.

Ezekiel saw it too. Chapter 37: a valley of dry bones, scattered, hopeless. God asks, “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel doesn’t play hero—“Lord, you alone know.” Humanly? No chance. Dead bones don’t wiggle. But God says, “Prophesy,” and the Spirit’s breath—”ruach”—sweeps in. Bones rattle, flesh forms, and they stand—a vast army. Who did that? Not the bones. God. Ezekiel 37:14—“I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live.” Dead means “nekros”. No life ‘til God moves.

John 6:44 seals it: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them.” “Can”—ability. Without the Father’s pull, we’re stuck. Romans 8:7—“The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit, nor can it.” Hostile. Incapable. “Nekros”. If you think a corpse picks itself up, you’re not reading the Bible—you’re writing fiction.

The Process: God Provides All

Salvation’s not steps we take—it’s God’s work breaking us alive. He’s not waiting for us to climb a ladder; He’s emptying our grave. Listen:

– He’s the Seed Supplier: 1 Peter 1:23—“Born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the word of God.” Matthew 13:37—“The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man.” Christ plants life in “nekros” soil. We don’t sprout ourselves—He sows.

– He’s the Knocker: Revelation 3:20—“I stand at the door and knock.” Jesus isn’t begging us to knock first—He’s pursuing. Dead men don’t knock back; “nekros” hearts don’t answer—He’s the hunter breaking in. Luke 19:10—“The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.” He seeks; we’re lost.

– He’s the Convictor: John 16:8—“The Spirit will convict the world of sin.” Acts 2:37—Pentecost’s crowd, “cut to the heart,” didn’t self-diagnose. The Spirit stabbed them awake. Dead hearts don’t feel ‘til He strikes.

– He Gives His Spirit: Ezekiel 37:14—“I will put my Spirit in you.” John 3:5—“Born of the Spirit.” Titus 3:5—“Saved by the renewal of the Holy Spirit.” No Spirit, no life. He breathes; we don’t.

– He Provides the Lamb: John 1:29—“The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” Romans 3:25—“God put [Him] forward as a propitiation by his blood.” We didn’t slay the Paschal Lamb—God did. Hebrews 9:12—“With his own blood, he secured eternal redemption.” All Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Romans 5:10

These aren’t steps to be redeemed—check off faith, grab grace, earn the cross. That’s works, and Ephesians 2:9 says, “Not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” It’s His process, His redemption, His hammer smashing our “nekros” chains. Acts 13:48—“As many as were ordained to eternal life believed.” Ordained, then believed—not the other way around. Romans 2:4—“God’s kindness leads you to repentance.” He leads; we follow. He provides all, or it’s not salvation—it’s self-help.

The Gift: No Paychecks Here

If God does it all, it’s a gift. Ephesians 2:8—“By grace you have been saved through faith… it is the gift of God.” Faith too—not your grit, His grant. Philippians 1:29—“It has been granted to you to believe.” Granted, not grabbed; to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ—2 Peter 1:1. Hebrews 12:2—“Jesus, the AUTHOR and perfecter of our faith.” He writes it, not us.

If we choose God without His seed, knock, conviction, Spirit, and Lamb, that ain’t a gift—it’s a paycheck. “I chose wisely; pay me salvation.” Romans 3:27—“Where is boasting? Excluded.” Why? A “nekros” soul doesn’t choose—it’s chosen. John 15:16—“You did not choose me, but I chose you.” 1 John 4:19—“We love because he first loved us.” First. Always Him first. If we kickstart it, why the cross? Galatians 2:21—“If righteousness were through [us], Christ died for nothing.” Dead men don’t earn gifts—they receive them.

The Folly of Free Will Chasing

Some scream, “But free will!” Sure, we respond—”after” He moves. Acts 2:37—“What shall we do?”—comes after the Spirit cuts. John 1:13—“Born not of human decision, but of God.” Charles Spurgeon saw it clear: “Free will carried many a soul to hell, but never a soul to heaven. Anyone who believes that man’s will is entirely free and that he can be saved by it does not believe the fall.” He’s right. Romans 3:23—“All have sinned and fall short.” Free will without grace is freedom to rot, not rise. Romans 8:7—“The flesh “cannot” please God.” Cannot. “Nekros”.

2 Corinthians 4:6—“God… has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” We didn’t flip the switch—He did. Dead hearts don’t chase light; light chases them. Spurgeon’s not guessing—he’s echoing Scripture: a “nekros” will, unbound by grace, runs to ruin, not redemption.

Lay It Down

This war’s dragged on too long—centuries of dodging the obvious. Scripture’s clear: we’re “nekros” without God, revived by His Spirit, saved by His Lamb. He’s the seed, the knock, the conviction, the breath, the blood. Spurgeon’s words ring true—free will without grace is a one-way ticket down, never up. Reject that, and you’re not just undoing Calvinism—you’re undoing the gospel. Dead men don’t choose; God chooses them. John 6:44. Ezekiel 37. Ephesians 2. Romans 9:16—“It does not depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.” It’s a sledgehammer of truth, and it’s time to swing it. He provides all. Let the Word silence the noise. Full stop.

Three CRIES, One Grace: My Journey TO LIFE in God

I didn’t choose God like picking a book off a shelf. Faith wasn’t a decision I mulled over—it was a lifeline I grabbed when the darkness of my soul nearly swallowed me whole. This is my story: three cries from a broken life, answered by one grace that remade me. It’s not neat, but it’s real—and if you’re searching for purpose, it’s for you too.

The Void That Defined Me

A gnawing emptiness shadowed me from the start. Childhood wasn’t a warm memory—it was a jagged edge, a void nothing could fill. Hobbies fizzled, distractions faded, and the world seemed to spit me out like Jonah from the whale. Schools branded me hopeless, a lost cause not worth the effort. Church folks tried to reel me in, but their Sunday smiles turned hollow by Monday—I saw the masks. Oddly, I found more truth among unbelievers, rough souls who didn’t judge me like the “righteous” did. Still, I was a misfit, adrift in a life that had no slot for me. Sin’s weight grew, a stranglehold tightening, and I teetered on the edge—ready to end it all.

The Light That Found Me

Then an accident pinned me down—bedridden, trapped, with nothing but time and a sealed Gideon’s Bible on the shelf. Curiosity cracked it open, and I tore into it like a starved man, devouring every page. The Gospels hit hardest, but I didn’t have some grand epiphany—not yet. I just ate, clueless, while God’s Word sank deep, an incorruptible seed (1 Peter 1:23). Days later, it broke loose: a heavenly shift—peace flooded in, the kind Jesus promised, “My peace I give unto you” (John 14:27). Joy surged, and my old crutches—cigarettes, alcohol, filthy words—turned sour. I didn’t pray a formula; grace crashed in unbidden, remaking me from the core.

That’s when I knew why I believe. He’s the light of all humanity (John 1:4), a brilliance only the broken can truly see. In my abyss, that light pierced through—not random, but personal, as if I’d been chosen, predestined for rescue (Eph. 1:4-5). It was God’s goodness, His grace, shattering my despair like dawn through a storm. I was famished, crushed by sin’s burden, and like a dying man lunging for bread, I grabbed it—the life I couldn’t conjure. “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), and I did. I tasted Him, and I’m changed forever.

The Cry That Birthed Me Anew

The shadows didn’t just weigh me down—they crushed me open. Weeping, I’d whisper, “Somebody help me!”—a plea from a soul collapsing under sin. That’s when the Father drew me (John 6:44). Jesus, the Great Physician, came for the brokenhearted (Luke 4:18), and my cry stirred His compassion. I wasn’t righteous or polished—I was a wreck, a child begging. The proud don’t need a Savior, but I did. He heard me, pulling me from the wreckage of my chaos.

Friends saw it: “This isn’t Bob.” The old me—ringleader of ruin—vanished. Those who thrived on my darkness ditched me; one called me a “good chap” gone astray. They drifted off, but I wasn’t alone—I’d been born of God (John 1:13). How do you wrap that in words? With man, it’s impossible; with God, it’s a miracle. I thought this was just for me, a fluke for the few, but no—salvation’s for all (Titus 2:11). I loved the shadows until they broke me. Jesus knocks on every heart (Rev. 3:20)—mine, yours, everyone’s. I was lost, now I’m found—because of Him.

A Call to the Searching

This isn’t a fairy tale for the chosen few—it’s a lifeline for the wrecked. If you feel that void, if darkness chokes you, cry out. Crack open His Word, taste His goodness. He’s the Life of man, the Physician who heals, and He’s still reaching today. Three cries—despair, discovery, deliverance—led me to one grace. Will you let Him in?

The YOKE You DON’T WEAR: Breaking Free from PULPIT LIES

Imagine a believer—head bowed, hands clenched, tears streaking down their face—pleading at the altar for the tenth time to have some “yoke” broken. The preacher’s voice booms, “The anointing breaks the yoke!” The crowd cheers, the music swells, and the air thickens with desperation. But here’s the gut punch: “What if the real bondage isn’t the yoke they’re weeping over, but the lie they’ve been fed?” What if they’re already free—and no one told them?

I’m tired of it. Tired of ministers butchering verses like Isaiah 10:27, twisting a promise of deliverance into a never-ending cycle of spiritual begging. Tired of seeing Christians live in defeat, brokenness clinging to them like damp rot, because unqualified voices behind pulpits peddle half-truths to fill pews and their own stomachs. The enemy’s having a field day, and it’s time we stopped letting him win.

The Truth: Christ Broke the Yoke

Let’s get this straight—scripture doesn’t stutter. “For freedom Christ has set us free,” Paul declares in Galatians 5:1. “Stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Romans 8:2 nails it: “The law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” Jesus Himself says, “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed” (John 8:36). That’s not a maybe, not a “someday”—it’s done. On the cross, the Anointed One—the Christ—shattered the yoke of sin, death, and the law’s curse (Colossians 2:14-15). The “anointing” of Isaiah 10:27? It’s fulfilled in Him, not in some emotional altar call.

Back then, Israel groaned under Assyria’s boot—a literal yoke of oppression. God promised relief, and He delivered. But Christ took it further. He didn’t just break a political chain; He demolished the root of all bondage. If you’re in Him, the Holy Spirit seals that freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17). The enemy’s got nothing left but lies—and he’s banking on you not knowing it.

The Lie: Pulpit-Born Bondage

So why are Christians still shuffling to the front, week after week, begging for a breakthrough they already have? Because too many pulpits are peddling bondage dressed up as hope. Isaiah 10:27 gets yanked out of context—Assyria’s long gone, but now it’s your debt, your anxiety, your “generational curse” that needs breaking. Preachers shout it, congregations lap it up, and the truth gets buried. They’re not teaching liberty—they’re selling shackles. “Worse, by submitting to this, believers fall into the devil’s scheme—discrediting what God wrought through Christ, spitting on the redemption bought with blood.”

It’s negligence at best, greed at worst. Paul warned of “teachers to suit their own passions” (2 Timothy 4:3), men who “imagine that godliness is a means of gain” (1 Timothy 6:5). When a minister’s more interested in a packed house than a freed people, they lean on drama—“yoke-breaking” moments, endless deliverance prayers—anything to keep you coming back. The result? A church full of heirs acting like beggars, blind to their inheritance (Romans 8:17). The enemy doesn’t need to chain you when ignorance does it for him.

The Shackles Fall: You’re Already Free

Here’s the eye-opener: If Christ broke the yoke, you’re not wearing it. Life’s got battles—Paul took his share of beatings (2 Corinthians 11:23-28)—but they’re not bondage. They’re fights you wage from victory, not for it (1 Corinthians 15:57). Guilt? Nailed to the cross (Romans 8:1). Fear? Crushed by perfect love (1 John 4:18). “Curses”? Christ became the curse for you (Galatians 3:13). Jesus didn’t offer a heavier yoke—He called His “easy” and His burden “light” (Matthew 11:30).

Stop begging. Start standing. “Take up the whole armor of God,” Paul says, “that you may be able to withstand… and having done all, to stand firm” (Ephesians 6:13). Know the Word—test every sermon against it. Claim what’s yours—freedom isn’t a feeling, it’s a fact. The enemy’s trembling because a church that knows its liberty is a force he can’t stop.

The Challenge: Reject the Lie

Next time you hear “the anointing breaks the yoke” tossed around like a spiritual cure-all, ask: “What yoke?” Christ’s work is finished (John 19:30). The shackles aren’t yours—they’re relics of a lie, relayed by ignorance and negligence. “Every time you buy that lie, you’re handing the enemy a win, trampling the cross underfoot.” Quit running to altars for what the cross already gave you. Demand better from the pulpit. And live like the free man or woman you are.

The enemy’s had his run. Let’s end it.

The FIFTH Cup (Original SONG included)

The table groans under its burden, set with care in the flickering lamplight. Four cups rise like sentinels, each a promise clawed from the bones of Egypt. The first spills liberation—“I will bring you out,” God declares, and Pharaoh’s yoke shatters into dust, the chains of oppression grinding to nothing beneath His heel (Exodus 6:6). The second washes slavery’s stench away, a bitter tide of tears surging back, stinging throats raw as it recedes. The third gleams with redemption, an arm outstretched through time’s veil, seizing what’s His with unrelenting fire. The fourth seals it—“I will take you,” a people forged in the desert’s crucible, wine staining their lips dark and thick as blood, a covenant pulsing with belonging (Exodus 6:7). Passover hums with these four beats, a drumroll of deliverance etched deep in the soul of a nation.

Yet the story doesn’t end there. A fifth promise lingers in the text: “I will bring you into the land…” (Exodus 6:8). This vow of a homeland, a resting place for God’s people, sparked a debate among the Rabbis, recorded in the Talmud (Pesachim 118a). Should a fifth cup be poured to honor this final stage of redemption, the gift of the Land of Israel? Some argued yes, seeing it as the culmination of divine promise; others hesitated, noting its conditional weight, unfulfilled in times of exile. The dispute unresolved, Jewish tradition often pours this fifth cup at the Seder but leaves it untouched—a silent vessel, named for Elijah, the prophet destined to herald the Messiah and the final redemption. In this “Cup of Elijah,” hope simmers, a fragile whisper of a world made whole.

But there’s another cup, heavier, darker. The fifth. It hulks at the table’s edge, poured yet untouched, a shadow curling in the candlelight. In Jewish tradition, it yearns for Elijah’s return; yet the prophets glimpsed a deeper vein running through it. Jeremiah quaked before it: “Take this cup of the wine of my fury,” God roars, and kings choke on its dregs; cities fester, nations lurch like drunks through their own filth (Jeremiah 25:15-16). Isaiah reeled at the sight—a winepress trodden in divine rage, juice spilling red as gore, drenching the earth in judgment’s flood (Isaiah 63:3). This “Cup of Wrath,” absent from the Seder’s table but vivid in prophetic warnings, isn’t a sip of peace or a toast to glory. It’s a chalice brimming with a storm—God’s judgment, black and bottomless, waiting for someone to lift it.

Who could drink it?

Night throttles the garden, thick with midnight’s weight. A man kneels alone, sweat beading red, dripping like oil into the dirt. “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me,” he rasps, voice fraying into the dark (Luke 22:42). Jesus stares into a pit no one else can see, its edges gnashing with a fury sharper than nails, deeper than death. Fear sours the air; his breath hitches, ragged, as if the flood’s already rising in his chest. Disciples slump in the grass, snoring through the world’s unraveling, blind to the chalice trembling in his hands. This isn’t a martyr’s serene tableau—it’s a man facing the fifth cup, the wine of wrath meant to drown nations. In Christian thought, this cup merges with the Seder’s fifth, transforming Elijah’s hope into a crucible of suffering. He lifts it. He drinks. The tempest burns in his veins, his chest heaves under its weight, and the storm breaks over him alone.

And what a breaking—God casts off His anointed, wroth with the one He chose (Psalm 89:38). The covenant of His servant lies void, his crown profaned, cast to the ground (89:39). Hedges broken, strongholds ruined, he stands spoiled by all who pass, a reproach draped in shame (89:40-41). His enemies’ hands rise, their laughter rings, his sword dulled, his glory snuffed out, throne toppled, youth cut short (89:42-45). The fifth cup pours not just pain but desolation—abandonment absolute, loss no tongue dares preach.

Isaiah saw him coming—a servant, face battered beyond human, flesh shredded for sins he never owned. “He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our iniquities,” the prophet mutters, “the punishment that brought us peace broke him raw” (Isaiah 53:5). Silent as a lamb, he takes the blade—God’s will a millstone, grinding him to dust (53:7, 10). John hacks it blunt: “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). Propitiation—not a bribe to soothe a tyrant, but a swallowing of the deluge. The fury meant to torch us sears his lungs, spills his blood, and on a hill of skulls, he drowns in it—body broken, a ruin beneath a torn sky.

The nations should’ve drowned instead. Jeremiah watched them reel—empires buckling, streets thick with ash and screams, kings clawing at their throats as the cup’s wrath burned through. Cities crumbled, brick by brick, a world unmade in slow, choking spasms. The four cups sang of rescue—out of bondage, out of chains, redeemed, claimed—yet every note drips with his blood. He drank, and the cosmos shifted. The storm meant for us broke over Golgotha, judgment turned inward, and the wall between Jew and Gentile fell. From the wreck rose one new man, a body fused by his wounds (Ephesians 2:14-15). Reality’s weave tore and restrung itself in that moment—freedom not just from Pharaoh, but from the winepress, the thunder no one else could bear.

For centuries, the fifth cup sat at the Seder, a mute ache—exile’s dust on every tongue, prayers stretched thin, a longing for Elijah’s horn. In Jewish tradition, it remains the Cup of Elijah, a symbol of hope for future redemption. In Christian eyes, it gapes empty, its truth laid bare for those with eyes to see. The cup’s drunk, the body’s one, the promise lives—not a shadow of what’s to come, but a wound healed by the Spirit. Do you see it? Do you raise it in your heart?

### Experience the Song: “The Fifth Cup” by VelvetThorn Worship

Dive deeper into the message of “The Fifth Cup” with this spine-chilling Christian worship song I created under my project, “VelvetThorn Worship”. Reflecting the sorrow and triumph of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice in Gethsemane, this original anthem is perfect for Holy Week, Good Friday, or personal worship. Let the haunting music and powerful lyrics draw you closer to the weight of sin and the mercy of redemption.

🎧 Listen Now: [The Fifth Cup – Christian Worship Song](https://youtu.be/g_wX7gp3JTQ)
🔔 Subscribe to [VelvetThorn Worship](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0uoHClN13HCEovypF_eCoH3_0T6XRi5Q) for more inspiring music.
💬 Share how this song touches your heart in the comments on YouTube!

**Full Lyrics – The Fifth Cup** 

Intro 

Verse 1 
The table groans beneath its weight, 
Four cups of promise, sealed by fate. 
The first brings out, the second cleans, 
The third restores, the fourth sets free. 
But there's a fifth, untouched, unseen, 
A shadowed cup, where wrath has been. 

Chorus 
He drank the fifth cup, 
The wrath that was mine, 
The silence shattered, 
Redemption in time. 

Verse 2 
In the garden, midnight's veil, 
A man alone, His soul assailed. 
"Take this cup," He pleads in pain, 
Yet drinks it down, to break sin's chain. 

Chorus 
He drank the fifth cup, 
The wrath that was mine, 
The silence shattered, 
Redemption in time. 

Bridge 
Pierced for our rebellion, 
Crushed for our iniquities, 
The punishment that brought us peace, 
Broke Him raw, set us free. 

Outro 
The fifth cup's empty, 
The wrath is gone, 
In Christ’s great mercy, 
We are reborn. 

#ChristianWorship #TheFifthCup #HolyWeek #VelvetThornWorship
```

The Power of DEATH and the Gift of LIFE: A Choice Between Two Realities

Death stands as the most powerful and unrelenting force humanity will ever confront—an inescapable grip that no effort can ultimately outrun. No matter how far we flee, how much we distract ourselves, or how advanced our medicine becomes, its reach claims all: the rich and the poor, the healthy and the sick, the great and the small. This is the undeniable truth we must face: death is the ultimate equalizer, leveling every life in its path.

In response, humanity grasps at anything to dull the weight of this reality. We seek solace in fleeting comforts—addictions like fentanyl, alcohol, and a thousand other vices, each a hollow attempt to silence the restless soul. People turn to twisted forms of entertainment, depraved ways of living, and endless distractions, all in a futile effort to mask the deep spiritual separation from the life of God. Consider the evidence: wars rage, murders multiply, lies fester, divorces fracture families, and punishments echo through societies—all stemming from death’s pervasive dominion. It invades every corner, corrupting the body with incurable diseases, blood disorders, and the ravages of time, while breaking the soul through betrayal, abandonment, and the harshness of this world.

How strange is it that we run to everything but the life freely offered to us? There is, however, a profound alternative.

One has conquered this overwhelming force: Jesus Christ of Nazareth. He faced death head-on, in its full fury, and emerged victorious through His death on the cross and resurrection. No other figure in recorded history can claim such a feat. The empty tomb, documented in the Gospels, and the rapid spread of Christianity despite Roman persecution stand as testaments to this unique triumph. He did not merely delay death; He shattered its power, rendering it powerless over those who believe. This is the gospel: through His sacrifice, death no longer holds the final word, and eternal life—a restored connection with God—becomes available to all.

Scripture affirms this in 1 John 4:9: “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” Jesus did not come to offer a better way of coping or to teach us resilience. He came to abolish death itself, to break the chains that have bound humanity since the fall. The same Spirit that raised Him from the grave is offered to those who believe—a Spirit that quickens us, fills us with divine life, and empowers us to transcend the limits of this dying world.

Yet, here lies the tragedy: though He bore the consequences of sin and made this ultimate sacrifice, many still refuse the gift. Why? Pride drives some to cling to illusions of self-sufficiency, rejecting any need for a savior. Ignorance blinds others, leaving them unaware of the light within reach. Suffering—grief from loss, scars from abuse, or doubts born of injustice—causes many to question whether such a gift could be real. Instead, they fill the void with temporary pleasures: drugs, distractions, or fleeting thrills that crumble under scrutiny. Is it not tragic that the very life we need most—eternal life—is the thing we so often resist?

Death reigns supreme in this world, its evidence inescapable in every graveyard, every hospital bed, and every broken heart. But Jesus has broken its dominion. He has overcome the grave, and His victory can become ours through faith. The choice is clear yet profound: we can persist in the path of death, chasing empty comforts that fade, or we can turn to the One who has defeated it. History and Scripture declare His triumph; the Spirit extends His life to us now.

So, I ask you: Why would anyone choose the grip of death over the gift of life when the contrast is so stark? Every person must confront death, but through Christ, we can also conquer it. His life is ours to claim, freely offered to all who will believe. Will we persist in the shadow or embrace the light?

God’s INDELIBLE IMPRINT in Creation: A Reflection on the Thought of God Within Us

Introduction: The Thought of God in Humanity

Across time and cultures, humans have demonstrated an inherent awareness of a higher power. From religious devotion to philosophical musings, this universal sense that we are made for something greater suggests that our longing for the divine is not simply a social construct or intellectual curiosity. It is something deeper, something ingrained within us. This “innate thought of God” is a mark of our divine design—an imprint of God Himself. As Blaise Pascal famously stated, humanity carries a “God-shaped vacuum” that no worldly pleasure can fill. If God does not exist, this thought of Him should not exist within us either. But it does—insistently and universally. The fact that we cannot rid ourselves of this thought points to a profound truth: that God has indelibly stamped creation with His presence.

Yet, while this awareness of God is woven into the fabric of our being, it is often met with resistance. This resistance is not born of ignorance but of something deeper: an inherent corruption within the human heart. As the Bible teaches, “men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). We, in our pride and self-sufficiency, often reject the very God who made us, because His light exposes our flaws and unearths our deep need for redemption. The innate awareness of God, while undeniable, is often veiled by the darkness of our fallen nature. Without divine grace, we are spiritually blind to the very truth that our hearts desperately long for.

In this way, the thought of God in humanity is both a gift and a challenge—a sign of our divine design, but also a call to seek the very grace that alone can restore us. For, as Scripture reminds us, “The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts” (Psalm 10:4). The saving grace of God is the key to unlocking the true potential of our God-given awareness, turning our rebellion into reconciliation and our blindness into sight.

1. The Imprint of God in Creation

When we look at the natural world, it’s clear that creation is not the result of mere chance. From the “delicate ecosystems” to the “infinite expanse of space,” everything bears evidence of a Creator’s intentionality. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies proclaim the work of His hands (Psalm 19:1). This order, precision, and beauty reveal a Creator who is both powerful and deeply involved in His creation. Creation is more than just a physical phenomenon; it is a “revelation” of the divine nature itself.

Not only do we see beauty and order, but we also see the moral law embedded in creation. There is a natural harmony in the world, a “moral balance” in how life exists and interacts. But this is not just by accident. The world’s complex order points to an intelligent Creator whose signature is woven into every part of creation. It reflects God’s power, wisdom, and care. Every intricate detail—whether a microscopic organism or the vast reaches of the cosmos—echoes the mind of its Creator.

2. The Moral Law and the Presence of Evil

If nature reveals God’s handiwork, the moral law reveals His character. Humans, regardless of background, possess an innate sense of “right and wrong”—a “moral conscience” that transcends cultural boundaries. This sense of justice, of what ought to be, is a direct link to the “moral lawgiver.” Without a divine lawgiver, the very idea of good and evil would be meaningless.

This idea is confirmed when we consider the presence of “evil” in the world. The very concept of evil implies the existence of “good,” and without a moral standard set by a divine being, there could be no objective basis for recognising what is wrong. As C.S. Lewis famously argued, the reality of “evil” highlights the necessity of a “higher moral law”—one that is given by a “moral lawgiver.”

If we believe in evil, we must also acknowledge that there is a “God” who defines what is good. Without Him, evil would simply be a matter of subjective human opinion. The fact that humanity has always sought justice and always yearns for reconciliation and the removal of evil points to a “moral lawgiver” who stands above human understanding, defining ultimate good and ultimate evil.

If we seek to dismiss the existence of God, we must also reject the notion of evil. After all, what is “evil” if not defined as the antonym of good”—a concept grounded in the moral framework that acknowledges God?

3. The Human Vacuum and the Universal Longing for God

Yet, the presence of evil in the world is not the only clue we have about our need for God. There is also an “existential vacuum” that each of us experiences—an emptiness that cannot be filled by anything in the created world. “Blaise Pascal’s ‘God-shaped vacuum'” within us is an innate longing for the divine that no earthly achievement or pleasure can satisfy. Human beings are created with a “desire for God”—a deep hunger for meaning and purpose that can only be filled by a relationship with the Creator.

If God does not exist, why do we feel this yearning? Why do we long for something beyond ourselves, something eternal, if not because we were made for it? This “vacuum” within us is a reflection of our “divine design”—a mark of the Creator placed deep within our hearts. Even if we try to suppress it, this yearning cannot be eradicated. As Karl Barth noted, this awareness of the divine is “woven into the very fabric of our being.” No matter how much we try to fill the void with worldly pursuits, the emptiness remains—a testimony to the fact that we were made for God.

4. The Inescapability of the Thought of God

This “vacuum” is not something that can be erased. The “thought of God” cannot be eradicated from the human experience. Throughout history and across cultures, humans have consistently searched for meaning, purpose, and the divine. Even in societies where formal religions have been suppressed or abandoned, the longing for transcendence remains. People still wrestle with questions about the meaning of life, the origin of the universe, and the existence of a higher power.

This “universal impulse” points to something deeper: that the “thought of God” is not a social construct but an intrinsic aspect of our nature. The idea of a “Creator” is ingrained in all creation, embedded into the consciousness of every human being. Even in our rebellion or denial of Him, this thought persists, because it is “deeply woven into who we are”—a signature of the Creator on the human soul. Whether we acknowledge it or not, the “thought of God” remains a permanent part of our experience. As Psalm 19 affirms, the heavens declare God’s glory, and so does the human heart.

The opposition is so powerful and even bewitching that, in attempting to fill the God-shaped vacuum, one might easily succumb to the myriad forms of universal deception, all meticulously designed to redirect any inner yearning for the reality of God toward anything and everything but Him.

5. Nature and Revelation: The Fullness of God’s Signature

Nature reveals God’s “invisible attributes”—His immense power, wisdom, and boundless creativity. However, nature alone falls short of answering life’s most profound questions. While it testifies to the existence of a Creator, it remains silent on the deeper spiritual truths about His character, His love, and His desire to reconcile with humanity. For these, we need “divine revelation.” This is where the “word of God,” described as the incorruptible seed of life, enters with transformative power—capable of breathing life into our spiritually dead souls.

Through Scripture—and more specifically, through the person of Jesus Christ—we come to comprehend the fullness of God’s will for us. It is the word of God, enveloped by the Spirit of God, that revives and resuscitates a dead soul. The restorative and regenerative work of God entered the world through the Son of God, whose name is Iēsous Christos.

Jesus, the living Word of God, reveals to us the depth of God’s love, His justice, His forgiveness, and His mercy. The Bible teaches us that the Creator did not remain distant but chose to enter into His creation, offering a clear path to redemption. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus Christ has removed every barrier that would keep us from coming to God and receiving life.

In doing so, He reveals humanity’s ultimate purpose: reconciliation with the Creator, fulfilment of the moral law, and the restoration of peace with both God and one another.

Conclusion: The Thought of God Cannot Be Erased

The thought of God is not optional. It is “irremovable”—an essential part of the human experience. It is ingrained in the “vacuum” within our hearts, etched into the very structure of the universe, and reflected in the “moral law” that guides us. “God’s signature” is present in all creation, in the beauty of the world, in the moral conscience of humanity, and in our ceaseless search for meaning. Even the reality of “evil” serves to point us back to God, to the moral standard that He sets, and to the “ultimate reconciliation” that He offers in Christ.

As long as humanity continues to wrestle with the question of evil, justice, and purpose, the thought of God will persist. It is an “unavoidable truth” that, regardless of our cultural or personal background, we are all marked by the “imprint of the Creator.” This is the legacy of God’s presence in the world, an undeniable witness to His existence, and an invitation to seek Him and find peace in Him.

GOD – Exploring the Divine: The Essence of God

GOD

“Exploring the Divine: The Essence of God”

Introduction:

In the vast expanse of human history and thought, few questions have stirred as much contemplation, debate, and yearning as those concerning the Divine. What is God? Does God exist? And if so, what is the nature of this supreme being who eludes easy definition and comprehension? These questions, rooted in the very essence of human curiosity, transcend cultural, geographical, and temporal boundaries, pointing to a universal quest for understanding something greater than ourselves.

“Exploring the Divine: The Essence of God” seeks to navigate these profound inquiries, not through the rigid structure of dogmatic assertions, but with an open heart and a spirit of genuine seeking. This exploration is for the discerning, for those who dare to look beyond preconceived notions and mythologies to touch the reality of a God who is not just a concept, but a presence that can be felt and experienced.

Through scriptural insights, theological reflections, and personal musings, we embark on a journey to understand the Almighty’s traits, presence, and essence. We delve into the paradoxes of God’s nature—is God tangible or beyond physical form? Is God’s presence confined to sacred spaces or woven into the very fabric of existence? And crucially, how do these understandings affect our relationship with the Divine and with the world around us?

As we ponder these questions, we invite readers to join us in this journey of discovery. It is a path that promises no easy answers but offers the richness of contemplation and the possibility of encountering the Divine in ways both profound and deeply personal.

The usual questions are:

What is God?
Is there a God?
Who is the true God?
Does He possess a shape or form?
Where is He?
Whose witness or testimony about God can be considered valid?
Can we feel, and experience God?
What are His traits?
What makes God, God? Or what ought to be His traits?

I hope to address all questions about God, albeit not in a structured or sequential manner.

To the discerning and those who refuse to cling to preconceived ideas or mythologies, God is not just a concept but a reality that can be felt and experienced. He graciously reveals Himself to genuine seekers and does not hide from those who long for life.

As God must be the source of all life; life can only be found in His presence. The earthly sphere is devoid of true life. The world in which we live lacks life; it is a mere shadow and is not permeated with the presence of God. If this is life as you know it, then life is made up of both good and evil, idols, and sacrilegious temples. This cannot be accurate. Life should signify completeness; life should signify pure joy and delight. Since that does not exist in our world, we cannot consider it as life but rather as a shadow that contains some elements of life.

True pleasure is not the same as the pleasure we define as coming from the sensual realm. That’s delusional thinking. Pleasure is the pure, unadulterated delight that is devoid of suffering or tears; it is not carnal. The definition of pleasure is the absence of all evil. However, the life that we call on earth does not possess such merits. It is rife with suffering, anguish, and devastation, yet we dare to call that life. To believe that we have entered life is a fallacy.

Only in the person of God can life be discovered or reasoned; life is not something we create, but rather God Himself. Life can only come from the Almighty’s presence. The life must be God.

I remember someone declaring themselves as life – John 14:6. His name is Jesus of Nazareth. If He is life, then He must be the God who created everything else. But would our sinful selves agree with his statement? The word of God says: This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13.

As I mentioned earlier, to address the dilemma of mankind, God, who is loving and compassionate, chose to descend from His position of power and come down to earth in human form – Philippians 2:6,7. What He encountered was anything but a comfortable place; rather, it was a hostile and severely damaged planet. His own creatures did not welcome Him – John 1:11. Their actions showed utter enmity towards God, and they were filled with rage, a clear indication of lifelessness and depravity. They denied the Holy One and the Just – Acts 3:14; and crucified the Lord of glory – 1 Corinthians 2:8.

When they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. They changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, four-footed beasts, and creeping things. They changed the truth of God into a lie and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever – Romans 1:21-25.

God’s sympathy towards His creations remained, even in the face of rejection. His great kindness for humanity spilled on the cross of Calvary, where He paid the ransom for freeing man from his fallen world and the power of evil. Man must be bought with a price in order to be saved, as he is incapable of saving himself. And God accomplished that by giving His one and only Son up on the cross. The path to the holiest of all has now been made clear, allowing anybody to enter and possess life. However, there is one prerequisite: For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved – Romans 10:13.

Common grace allows people to seek God, which was not possible in previous dispensations. Jesus Christ made it possible for people to call on God for salvation by sacrificing himself as God’s lamb, pouring out grace and truth on humanity through his cross. However, many people still fall short in this regard. But as for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me – Psalm 55:16; I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord – Psalm 116:13.

Then he is gracious unto him, and saith, deliver him from going down to the pit: I have found a ransom – Job 33:24. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life – John 3:16.

Until then the deep longing for redemption was something that humans craved. “It is an undeniable fact that humans have an innate and compelling drive for seeking redemption and making reparations for their misdeeds.” In ancient times, it was common for tribal communities to offer human sacrifices to appease their deities. What was the reason behind the need for these types of immolations? Why did these individuals feel the need to perform such extreme acts of ritual slaughter? They inherently believed that by doing so, they could atone for their sins and their inherently flawed nature. There is a connection between this and the brutal treatment of others.

What causes cruelty to self and cruelty to others? At the heart of much cruelty lies a deep sense of unworthiness. This unworthiness, this guilt, might not be consciously recognized or put into words by those affected, but it controls them anyway. When someone sins, someone must pay. Someone must atone by suffering. Either I must suffer or someone else must suffer, but somehow there must be suffering. There must be payment through pain. There must be atonement. This craving for atonement drives sadism (savoring the pain of others) and masochism (seeking pain for oneself). This affects not just ancient civilizations or confused kids but grownups as well – Dr. David Feddes

God demands only one thing from us, and that is to believe in His testimony about His one and only Son. His Son is the sole source of the life that we all desperately need. There is no room for ignoring God’s witness, as it will lead to severe consequences. Whether we agree with it or not, this is God’s report: those who have the Son have life, and those who do not have the Son do not have life. It is a firm and non-negotiable truth that we must accept. This is the gospel of Jesus Christ, and rejecting it incurs not only Divine anger but also eternal damnation for the rejecter’s soul.

When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath; Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man – Romans 2:8,9.

Only a deity who demonstrates grace and tenderness toward His creations can really be addressed or revered as God. You cannot worship a deity who lacks basic characteristics and imposes its ideology on you, as many faiths and powers do. The true God empowers you or gives you the ability to carry out His will without overwhelming you with His demands; His will does not allow you to drown under the weight of His demands. He must help, empower, or equip you to fulfill His needs. Otherwise, He cannot be taken to be true. Both Jesus and the Holy Ghost are spoken as helpers and comforters. Both act on the will of the Father

As rational beings, humans are inherently equipped to distinguish the true concept of God, and they must firmly reject any entity that falsely claims to be God, demands submission, and lacks the essential attributes that define the divine nature of God.

The only one who has descended from heaven to free humanity from its helpless, fallen state is Jesus Christ. This is exclusive to this man Jesus, an irrefutable fact, and no other entity can make such a claim or provide any evidence to support their demands. He was the first man ever raised from the dead. Through his resurrection, he gave us hope that we too can experience the power of resurrection and have life through believing in his name.

A thorough examination of numerous ancient religious texts reveals the longing for life and light, which is indicative of people’s realization of the corruption that plagued them. And that the real God, in the person of Christ (incarnate), has answered centuries’ worth of petitions. The solution God has sent to all human suffering is Jesus Christ. It is Christ Jesus who provides the ultimate solution to all human suffering that God has sent. The holy Apostle have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world – 1 John 4:14. He is the Christ, the Saviour of the world – John 4:42.

I want to draw attention to one old text that I am familiar with—ancient religions’ supplications to an unidentified god.

In the Hindu Vedas, prayers are often found in the “Asatoma Sadgamaya” mantra, which is a prayer for guidance towards truth and light. It can be translated as:

“Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya” (तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय) meaning “Lead me from darkness to light.”

“Mrityorma Amritam Gamaya” (मृत्योर्मा अमृतं गमय) meaning “Lead me from death to immortality.”

These prayers express the spiritual aspiration to move from ignorance and mortality towards enlightenment and eternal life.

And this was fulfilled or the prayers were answered in the person of Jesus Christ, the Lord of heaven.

This is how you distinguish between the true God and the false. Counterfeit deities will deceive you by promising fleeting gratification and leading you down a path of eternal torment. On the other hand, the true God genuinely cares about you and offers practical solutions to your challenges. The real God is invested in your entire existence, including your eternal destiny.

In Acts 17:26-29, Paul tells us that since we are the offspring of God (originates from God), we must not think that the Godhead is like unto man’s device but is a Supreme intelligent being who cares.

“God made Jesus of Nazareth both Lord and Christ”. If we receive the witness of men, the witness (marturia) of God is greater. It indicates that human testimony is important, but God’s testimony carries even greater weight and significance, emphasizing the superiority and trustworthiness of God’s witness over human testimony.

We have so great a cloud of witnesses (martus – Martyrs/ literally-judicially); and, eyewitnesses of His Majesty – Hebrews 12:1; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Luke 1:2; 1 John 1:1-3. And if under the judicial system of human government, a witness’s testimony is crucial and holds merit, much more is the testimony of God the Potentate, witnessed and received by multitudes since the beginning of time.

For this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself (For the Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit – Romans 8:16): he that believeth not God hath made him a liar because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life, and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life – 1 John 5:9-12.

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life and that ye may believe on (eis) the name of the Son of God – 1 John 5:13.

Let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living – Romans 14:9; Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours – 1 Corinthians 1:2; grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 3:18. The holy apostles said, if so be that the dead rise not, we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ – 1 Corinthians 15:15-20. Now the righteousness of God (which is by faith of Jesus Christ) without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets – Romans 3:21,22.

The gospels and the epistles testify Jesus Christ as the Lord and
Apostle Peter said, Let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36.
Titus, a non-Jewish individual who converted to Christianity and was given significant responsibilities by Paul, like supervising the church in Crete, and was recognized for his close relationship with Paul and his efforts in advancing the Christian faith, as documented in one of the pastoral letters in the New Testament. In these letters, Titus emphasizes the sanctity of Jesus Christ by referring to Him as “the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” “The doctrine of God our Saviour” – Titus 2:10,13
Jesus testified of Himself and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am – John 8:58.
John the Baptist bore witness of him, and cried, saying, this was he of whom I spoke, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me – John 1:15.
Apostle John testifies, In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God – John 1:1; And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth – John 1:14); “This is the true God and eternal life” – 1 John 5:20.
Timothy was a companion of the Apostle Paul and the recipient of two of Paul’s letters that are included in the New Testament of the Bible: 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy; a young Christian leader and a close associate of Paul, who referred to him as his “true son in the faith” -1 Timothy 1:2. Though his encounters with Jesus would have been through the teachings of the apostles testifies thus: “without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh” – 1 Timothy 3:16.

These were not mere testators but the eyewitnesses of His Majesty. That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ – 1 John 1:1-3.

And when Jesus was on earth, he made a stunning remark to demonstrate his pre-existence: “Before Abraham was, I am” (eimi – I exist, was, and have been). Let us investigate the Torah (Pentateuch; the Books of Moses) and the Tanakh (Old Testament) to see if we can trace Jesus back to that time. Keep in mind that, according to the writing to the Corinthians, the second man who has come down is “the Lord from heaven” – 1 Corinthians 15:47. The same term “Lord” was used in Genesis 17 and 18 to refer to the one who visited Abraham with his two angels. The book of Acts confirms that “this is he” was in the church in the desert with the angel who spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai – Acts 7:38.

We understand the relationship between Jesus Christ and God as they share the same essence and are inseparable. God and Jesus Christ share a common essence and cannot be separated and called three distinct Gods, although the Godhead is made up of their respective personalities. The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are One because God is a Spirit, according to 1 John 5:7; the Word of God or the Lord from heaven is that Spirit – 2 Corinthians 3:17.

The term “express image” generally refers to an accurate or exact portrayal of something. The term “express image” of God refers to Jesus as the ideal expression or manifestation of God’s nature and character. This concept appears in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews, where Jesus is portrayed as the “exact representation” of God’s nature (Hebrews 1:3, NIV). This means that Jesus, as God’s Son, properly embodies the nature, character, and essence of God the Father. God cannot communicate Himself more clearly than He did in and through Christ Jesus. This is the most complete expression of Himself; the fullest manifestation of Who God is to His creation.

I’d want to add two terms to the definition: “Perichoresis” and “Hypostatic“. Perichoresis and hypostatic union are related but not the same. Perichoresis refers to the mutual interpenetration or indwelling of the three persons of the Triune Godhead (The Father, the Son, and The Holy Ghost) within one another, emphasizing their unity and equality.

Hypostatic union, on the other hand, specifically refers to the union of the two natures (divine and human) in the person of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his dual nature as fully God and fully man. Both concepts are central to Christian theology but focus on different aspects of the nature of God and Christ.

Now that you know this, can you comprehend what Jesus said about Himself and His Father?

He said, I and my Father are one – John 10:30; I am come in my Father’s name – John 5:43; I do the works of my Father that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him – John 10:38.

Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered Ye neither know me nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also – John 8:19. Jesus said unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father (erchomai – indicating movement or arrival), but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him – John 14:6,7.

No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him – John 1:18; Jesus said, “he that hath seen me hath seen the Father”; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? John 14:9. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; The great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent – John 17:3. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men – Titus 2:11.

Christ must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet; then (tote – at that time) shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all – 1 Corinthians 15:24-28. The embodiment of the second person of the Godhead, the Word of God, was crucial for humanity’s redemption and the restoration of all things – Acts 3:21; Romans 8:19-21; and for reconciling all things to himself – Colossians 1:20.

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) (1 Corinthians 8:5) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him – 1 Corinthians 8:6.

Do not assume that God is someone we cannot relate to or understand. If we view God as distant and unwilling to engage with His creations, we are diminishing His divine nature. Understand why He created us in the first place. His creation reflects His profound longing for companionship and adoration. The longing placed within us by Him is not just evidence of His desire, but also an urge for us to seek and pursue Him – Acts 17:26,27. This longing and yearning for something greater, for something beyond ourselves, is a reflection of our innate connection to the divine. The Psalmist said, As the hart pants after the water brooks, so pants my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? Psalm 42:1,2 It is a reminder that we are not meant to live in isolation, but rather in communion with the source of all life.

Our longing for meaning, purpose, and fulfillment is a testament to the fact that we are created beings, designed to seek out and connect with our Creator. It is in this connection that we find true satisfaction and fulfillment, as we are united with the One who knows us intimately and loves us unconditionally.

So let us embrace this longing within us, this ache for something more, and allow it to lead us back to the arms of our loving Creator. For it is in Him that we find our true home, our true identity, and our true purpose. Let us not resist this longing, but rather surrender to it, knowing that it is leading us closer to the heart of God.

The inner yearning that God has instilled in us, the deep longing for vitality and illumination, serves as proof of His longing and enduring existence within us. This longing could not exist within us if it were not for God’s creation of us. Our yearnings, shortcomings, and all that we lack direct us to the origin of life, which is God. God cannot be separated from any being, as He is an integral part of every living creature.

Why would He create living beings if not for them to behold His glory and be in awe? Through Christ, He created sons and daughters whom He desired to share all He possesses; “the household of God” – Ephesians 2:19 – the term used is oikeios, meaning relatives or those belonging to or related to the family. Not just relatives, but heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ – Romans 8:17.

The terms “relatives” and “heirs” have some overlap but also distinct meanings in this context. While “relatives” typically denotes family members or those related by blood or marriage, “heirs” or “joint-heirs” refer to individuals who are designated to inherit or receive something of value, such as possessions or rights, often within a legal or familial context. The passage, emphasizes that believers are not just related to God through Christ but also designated as heirs who will inherit the blessings and promises of God.

God, therefore, exists within our finite understanding but is veiled. He is not incomprehensible to our limited minds, but only the veil or hindrance needs to be removed. For this purpose, God sent His Son to redeem us. If God is incomprehensible, incohesive, and incoherent, then His creations would have no means to communicate with Him; He would not be able to elicit a reaction from His creatures. If we cannot perceive the Almighty, why would He anticipate any response from us? However, the reality is that He has revealed Himself to His creatures so that we can discover Him by reason and feel after Him. But, if we are stubborn and won’t let go of any misconceptions or preconceptions, it will obstruct our ability to reason and understand Him for who He truly is.

God is the ultimate embodiment of purity, and authenticity, as well as everything of the highest moral quality in the created world, the visible universe. The apparent world is inseparable from the presence of God within it (the presence of God is undeniable throughout the created universe), as the Designer has left an everlasting impression of Himself throughout the created universe. The visible world is intricately linked to the inherent presence of God, with His imprint woven seamlessly throughout creation by the Designer. It is impossible to disentangle the embedded—or ingrained—impression of God from the apparent environment.

If that is true, then the creatures that are deficient of His presence can be filled with His self. Only one must know how to access Him. Need not worry; for if He so does expect us to possess Him, He must have provided a way to come to Him. Only such an entity can be revered as God.

The human body is one fine example, which is incredibly complex and intricate, displaying clear evidence of being created with utmost precision. Its origin strictly points to God, and it cannot exist unless fashioned by Him. In other words, its source is indisputably divine, and it can’t exist apart from divine creation.

At birth, a person enters the world through their body; they materialize in the terrestrial realm by occupying or assuming a human body that is unique to them. The action of God’s Spirit causes the earthly and the divine to merge. This instance of the supernatural occurring in the natural world demonstrates the invisible hand of God at work in the universe. The soul is formed within the womb of a woman at conception. If the complexity of human beings is beyond human understanding, can we not conclude that the creator is unlike any man and must be God? When they pass away, shedding their physical form, it becomes clear that they came from a divine realm, going back to God’s domain. This cycle of life is the unmistakable creation of God, the maker of everything and the power behind the manifestation of the universe.

What defines a human being? It is the essence that brings the body to life, turning a mere mixture of flesh and bones into a living being. The spirit that gives life to the body is what transforms the mortal mixture into a living soul. Where does this essence/spirit originate? It can’t stem from anything on earth. If one were to suggest that humans hold the power to create life within themselves, Should one dare assert that humans are endowed with the creative life necessary to birth another human, wouldn’t it render humans divine, wouldn’t that imply humans are akin to God and are worthy of worship? But as a man cannot control his own life and in death he has to give up everything to his fate, it shows that man cannot be the giver of life, but rather there is someone outside of man’s realm who is in charge, and that must be God. If man could halt death in its path, then we could credit man with creating a soul. However, that is not the situation for us humans, is it?

Man not only lacks understanding of his origins and destination but also demonstrates a reliance on and desire for assistance from the spiritual realm. Through religious rituals and offerings, he seeks to satisfy a higher power and seek redemption. Man needs to rely on this entity known as God for the advancement of well-being, health, and harmony. God is the first thought that arises in a rational person when things take a turn for the worse. This recognition is the inherent mark of God within every individual, demonstrating the presence of God and our origin and destination in God. This statement reflects a belief in the divine origin of life and the idea that death is a return to a higher realm orchestrated by a higher power, God. It suggests a sense of faith and reverence for the role of God in the cycle of life and death.

When a person passes away, their body turns to dust, and the life of the body or the spirit that gave it life returns to its origin. The Bible explains this process, stating, “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” – Ecclesiastes 12:7; Genesis 3:19. Who can refute this?

“If humans need to adapt, recycle, reshape, or extract the resources from the world to meet their requirements and surroundings, they should understand that God has created the world in a way that accommodates human needs. God has instilled wisdom and creativity in humans to utilize the provided materials to shape the world according to their preferences.”

Can we erase the idea of God from ourselves if we choose to? Whether you are an atheist, agnostic, wicked, or a believer; the profound awareness of God is deeply rooted in every human. Denying it won’t alter our innate nature.

Someone who denies the existence of God is in denial of their true self. This denial is delusional because they cannot remove that consciousness from deep within. He is at odds with himself, let alone the idea of God. They are antagonistic to everything good and divine, as their soul is held in captivity. As a result, there is a deep-seated dissatisfaction within each of us, regardless of our circumstances, because we are aware of our inherent depravity and the need for redemption. Now this man walks, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated (to estrange away/ to be cut off) from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart – Ephesians 4:17,18.

Only a shift in authority over the soul can bring about a lasting transformation and true contentment in an individual. The soul needs to be freed from the grip of sin and the malevolent force that confines it from experiencing true life. One reason he argues against God’s existence is the strong sense of God within him that bothers him, which is what piques him – Colossians 1:21. His fallen ego is so opposed to God that it desires to separate itself from its Creator through death. Death is the inevitable fate that all living beings, including humans, are inevitably drawn towards due to the inherent depravity that has befallen this supreme creation of God. The shadow of death looms over all of God’s creatures, only the light of God can free a soul from it – 2 Corinthians 4:6; Isaiah 9:2; Luke 1:79; Matthew 4:16.

God must intervene, and only He can do the necessary work to restore us to where we belong and to our original state of being aligned with and at peace with Him. This is what He did by sending His only begotten Son to the point of death so that we might be saved through Him. God’s love for His creation is immense, and unlike many claims, God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. Instead, He desires for the wicked to turn to Him and be saved from their despair. God was in Christ, reconciling (restoring, reuniting, bringing together again) the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them – 2 Corinthians 5:19.

So, this deep awareness of God and the struggle with it are simply the manifestation of the Divine’s call within everyone. In other words, the argument against God’s existence stems from a profound imprint in his mind, which is opposed by the corrupt rationale.

One reason why the soul must be limited in seeing things outside of this sphere is to exercise faith. Faith is the fuel by which you can navigate a soul into eternity. And since faith is a spiritual virtue and comes from God and cannot be concocted by humans, only the true and living God can impart such faith. This precious faith comes from believing on His Son Jesus. You would need the right person to steer your soul to eternity. And when knowing God and His Christ is eternal life, only He can guide and lead a soul on the right track, to keep them on an even keel. All other reliance can be fatal and can only mislead you to damnation. For they are blind guides and false hopes who if not sustained by the true God will perish. By nature, they are not gods but myths and folklore behind which the devils work to deceive.

Spiritual wellness relies on faith in God and that faith must come from God and it comes through believing in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the author of our faith. Nothing of God and eternity are made visible to the naked eye but it is this imputed faith that empowers us to see and know God and to experience Him. Everything that God has to offer can only be accessed through faith and since God alone can equip us with such virtue, He who provides like precious faith must be the true God and the rest are falsehood. It’s this faith by which a regenerated soul lives by without which a spiritual life is not possible or without which the spirit, which is created in the image of God cannot be sustained. For faith is its link that plugs him to God. The soul of man cannot sustain itself without God and it is the faith that we obtain from God that connects us to Him. If so, He who imparts faith and grace must be God. You cannot object or disbelieve the faith of millions of souls who were raised to life to live unto God. They were not perfect beings but were on the verge of being annihilated by death and the evil one. They were hopeless and destitute of any life that received life or had experienced the abundant life that Christ had promised and thus entered into life. You cannot convince them into believing the crap as they have received faith from God.

The physical and spiritual aspects of man are at odds. Due to the corrupt nature of the flesh and the vague and void spiritual realm, the flesh would ultimately triumph, squelching all glimmer of hope. This internal enmity is further fuelled by the demonic spirit within – Ephesians 2:2, referred to as the “strong man” by Christ, who is defeated on the cross of Calvary.

Therefore, despite one’s spiritual beliefs, the concept of God remains ingrained in human consciousness. Death cannot erase this idea, as God’s presence transcends even the deepest depths or the highest throne. In every corner, God’s existence persists, encompassing all and simultaneously existing beyond and within creation to uphold it.

The Psalmist says, whither shall I go from thy Spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there; the darkness and the light are both alike to thee – Psalm 139:7,8,12.

The awareness of God is what will afflict a soul the most in hell. You may believe that this consciousness of God regurgitates within merely in this life, but as you have read, you cannot hide from Him who sits on the throne; the thought of God will continue to haunt you as an eternal being, whether in life or death. Yes, death is a severance from God, yet man’s consciousness persists even in hell, which is anathema or damnation. Torment is a facet of the mind or consciousness; It cannot be referred to as “torment” unless it is a mental or conscious experience – Luke 16:24; Revelation 20:10. You would only understand the horror if the dead could talk now.

What causes us humans to suffer from despair, hopelessness, and mental and physical illness? Can you identify its underlying cause? Humanity is suffering as a result of our separation from our creator God. Depravity is consuming him from the inside out. The entire individual is sick. The man is exhibiting withdrawal symptoms here. He is ill because of his disengagement from God, and he cannot be healed unless he encounters God’s redemptive act, which God has already made possible through His Son Jesus, the Christ.

From the sole even unto the head there is no soundness in it – Isaiah 1:6. There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin. For mine iniquities are gone over my head: as a heavy burden they are too heavy for me – Psalm 38:3,4. O wretched man that I am! Turn thou us unto thee, O Lord, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old – Lamentations 5:21.

God is ready to hear your cries of suffering and anguish over sin. All He asks of you is an inward yearning for life. Why should he save you if you don’t feel the need of Him? Would man, however, call upon Him?

Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth – Psalm 46:8.
I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the Lord do all these things – Isaiah 45:7.
Shall there be evil in a city, and the Lord hath not done it? Amos 3:6
Deuteronomy 32:39 says, “See now that I, even I am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand.” God holds final sway in every death and every life.

This demonstrates God’s sovereignty over His creations rather than being evil. This does not suggest that God is malevolent. He must be the ultimate good. Can you not sense the impact when good is lacking within you and around you? Can you not observe how volatile and obnoxious the atmosphere becomes when good is being substituted by evil? For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work – James 3:16.

In the absence of God or where the Lord God is not revered, there is chaos and all forms of evil. When evil or anything other than the true God is worshipped and adored, that is where the wisdom of the wicked one prevails – James 3:8-18; Ephesians 2:2. The preceding lines demonstrate that God allows evil to exist where He is not revered and feared.

All things were created by him, and for him; whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; the things that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible Colossians 1:16. They fulfill God’s purpose; even Pharaoh, who is a symbol of the devil. For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth – Romans 9:17. Even creation groans and is subject to futility, experiencing decay and suffering until the one it was made for is saved. It eagerly anticipates the revealing of God’s children.

Fear and gloom overshadow all creatures of God. However, those who walked in darkness have seen a great light: those who live in the land of the shadow of death, light has shined upon them – Isaiah 9:2; the people who sat in darkness saw a great light, and to those who sat in the region and shadow of death, light has sprung up – Matthew 4:16.

What is that light you might ask? For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 4:6.

When did God command the light to shine out of darkness? On the first day of His creation of the present world, God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light – Genesis 1:3,4. And this is the true Light, which lights every man that comes into the world – John 1:9. In him was life; and the life was the light of men – John 1:4. And this is the record, that God has given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son – 1 John 5:11. He who has the Son has life, and he who does not have the Son of God does not have life – 1 John 5:12.

How could you be so naive as to think that evil doesn’t exist? It’s deeply embedded in your being. Apostle Paul states, “Evil is present with me” – Romans 7:21. Your flesh is regurgitating or detecting wickedness; for it is subject to sin – Romans 7:17-20. You are quite aware of it. That is why we all feel terror. That is why we enclose ourselves with walls. We would rather remain inside the boundaries of concrete walls for this reason. You run away from problems. For what reason do birds hide? For what reason do the animals hide? They must conceal themselves from raptors, predators, and other scuttling creatures who would like to eat them.

Wickedness is the polar opposite of goodness. Even a kid can differentiate between the two. So, wherever there is wickedness, there is God. Where sin abounds, grace does much more abound – Romans 5:20. Not that God causes evil, but that He must be the reason why the wicked world contends. God must be the reason for the evil world’s contention. What was the original sin of Lucifer, the devil? He was contending for God’s throne. He said in his heart that he would ascend into heaven, exalt his throne above the stars of God, and be like the Most High – Isaiah 14:13,14.

The Bible says that God is the one who restrains evil, thus it stands to reason that evil opposes God via His creations. According to Galatians 5:17, “The flesh in which wickedness dwells lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh.” These oppose one another.”

In this earthly realm, there are millions of self-proclaimed gods who by nature are no gods. They exist all over the world. The temples, numerous religious contexts, and even political domains demonstrate their undeniable existence. Millions of claiming gods are a sure-fire indication that they are vying for the title of the only real God.

Man’s need to build temples and shrines to satisfy deities demonstrates their influence over humanity. In contrast to the ancient Pharaoh, who ruled as an absolute dictator and enforced strict regulations on brickmaking, excluding crucial elements like hay that give structure and stability, the modern Pharaoh cannot exert such extreme control. Having been defeated by another powerful kingdom, a new era of compassion and vitality has been ushered in for the suffering humanity. Consequently, the modern Pharaoh is limited to deceiving people through tactics like compromise, collaboration, favors, and reciprocity.

It’s a reciprocal relationship. These beings are believed to cater to all material and worldly desires. Such gods are also made available to quell your rage, hostility, and envy. Eliminating their enemies can also be included in the list. They are also called upon to suppress feelings of hatred, jealousy, and anger. Those under their control understand the consequences of defiance. These wicked beings don’t regard your free will. They don’t do you favors in love, but they act intending to keep you from drifting towards the God-founded kingdom of Christ, which resurrects souls from their depraved state through the power of the Spirit of God. Their favors are not driven by love, but rather by the desire to keep you captive and prevent you from seeking the God-founded kingdom of Christ, where souls are resurrected from their corrupted state by the Holy Spirit’s power.

They entertain you by captivating your mind with the world’s glitz, making worldly careers and the pride of life seem essential to build your earthly life, and providing things to satisfy your worldly and carnal desires. By showcasing the world’s treasures (by stimulating your intellect with worldly luxuries), promoting lucrative professions (by crafting successful careers as the ultimate pursuit), glorifying a lavish lifestyle (by promoting the allure of a glamorous lifestyle – emphasizing the importance of material possessions), and catering to your sexual needs, they ensure your constant entertainment and engagement.

Even though these vices are devoid of life, you still find yourself drawn to them. Addictions, promiscuity, lawlessness, fame, glamour, power, and authority are what you exchange for the life of God and perish like a beggar, spiritually impoverished and separated from the life of God, which is Christ. When your life in this world comes to an end, you are fated to eternal damnation because you never had the opportunity to know God and His Christ, being captivated by the glitz and glamor of this fleeting world.

On the other hand, the real God does not force things upon you that you do not desire. Like a skilled physician, the true God cares and diagnoses to see what is needed to revive and restore you to life and wholeness. He will reawaken your free will through His Spirit and empower you to embrace the truth. He liberates first and then enables you to fulfill His purpose. Love is His foundational trait of the true God. That is the distinction.

I’d like to enlighten you and address your misconception that an entity’s choice to inhabit temples constructed by humans serves as proof/indicative of its identity; an entity’s decision to reside in human-made temples is evidence of its identity. The things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils – 1 Corinthians 10:20.

Their limitations and fallibility are apparent in their eagerness to inhabit temples. Devils favor localized dwelling as they are frequently linked to specific locations or individuals in different belief systems. Therefore pilgrims must navigate challenging terrains, travel great distances, and climb stairs to visit these elusive entities.

The true God, however, is omnipresent and infallible, and cannot be confined within human-made temples. God, the creator of the world and everything in it, as the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in man-made temples; nor is He worshipped with human hands, as if he needed anything, since He gives life, breath, and all things – Acts 17:24,25.

The only one to make such a claim is the Lord God of Israel: Is it possible for someone to hide somewhere secret and remain invisible to me? Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord; the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord – Jeremiah 23:24; Acts 7:46-50.

It was not God’s idea to build a house for Him, but King David and his son Solomon had vainly reasoned that God desired a temple like man and needed things – Acts 7:46; 1 Chronicles 17. The real God is indescribable, immense, and ever-present, encompassing everything, and as the poet suggests, we walk, live, and exist within Him – Acts 17:28.

If God exist, He must have already expressed His ultimate righteousness, and goodness to His creatures at the immediate sequel and before the fall would even transpire as He must know about it. Can you think of one being that claims to be omniscient and the embodiment of goodness? The person who has shown himself to be the ultimate embodiment of life, love, truth, and the path to God represents the highest order. It was Jesus who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me” – John 14:6; He is referred to as the Lord from heaven, he is the manifestation of the unseen God who descended to save humanity – 1 Corinthians 15:47; Colossians 1:14,15.

“The Lamb, slain from the foundation of the world” – Revelation 13:8; Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you – 1 Peter 1:20. The true God had already devised the redemption plan before the fall occurred. This demonstrates His omniscience, a key characteristic of God. Upon examination, it becomes evident that only the God of Israel exhibits these attributes.

He must be God and no one else can take that place. There is only one entity that has expressed Himself, embodied Himself, and incarnated to show the created world that He is God. He must be God to incarnate; a created being cannot accomplish such a feat. Only a pre-incarnate Christ can become incarnate.

The pre-incarnate Christ is known by the appellation “the Word of God,” and in his incarnate form, he is, Jesus of Nazareth (the embodiment is the Son of God/Son of man). The one who descended is also the one who ascended above all heavens, that he might fill all things. And he is before all things, and by him, all things consist or held together.

He is the one being that, in contrast to other entities, truly showed compassion, desired to unite with His creation and save them from their degradation, and offered himself on the Calvary tree to rescue mankind. Without the incarnation, it would have been impossible for any created being to perceive or know God. One man’s death on behalf of the people was necessary and expedient. For there can be no atonement for sins without bloodshed.

And as everyone has fallen short of God’s glory and there was no one righteous among mankind – Romans 3:10,23; Ezekiel 22:30, the Lord God, the wisdom and power of God (the Prince of life – Acts 3:15 – the Holy One and the Just – Acts 3:14), the exact representation of God’s glory, had to give up everything and humble Himself to become human (He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness – in the likeness of sinful flesh) and obediently accept death – Philippians 2:6-9; Psalm 89:20-45; Romans 8:3.

God, being a Spirit, cannot be seen. Created beings may sense God to a degree but seeing Him as He truly is remains impossible. Psalms 18:7-15 and Revelation 1:13-17 emphasize that He is so terrible and a Mighty God. According to John 1:18, no one has ever seen God; only the Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, has made Him known. In John 5:37, Jesus explains that the Father, who sent Him, has confirmed His identity, though His voice has never been heard nor His form seen. It hints quietly that the Father takes on a form that the Son alone has ever seen.

The term “Terrible” does not necessarily mean something negative, but rather it conveys the awe-inspiring and overwhelming power, majesty, and authority of God. It highlights the divine attributes of God that inspire reverence, fear, and respect due to His infinite nature and supremacy over all creation. Similarly, describing God as “Mighty” emphasizes His strength, sovereignty, and ability to accomplish all things. It signifies God’s omnipotence and omnipresence, underscoring His capability to bring about His will and fulfill His promises. These attributes are ascribed to God in religious teachings to help believers understand and appreciate the magnitude of His power, holiness, and transcendence beyond human comprehension. The language used to describe God reflects the profound reverence and awe that believers have toward the divine being they worship.

The true God is accountable. He is a conscientious Father of lights. We cannot claim He is unmindful of us. He truly looks after His creation, particularly humans. Even the hairs on our heads are numbered – Matthew 10:30. That illustrates His level of accountability towards mankind.

We must understand why He cares for us and why humans were created in His likeness and image. One reason is to communicate and express Himself through mankind. Creating His family is another motive – Ephesians 2:19/3:15; Romans 8:17. The innate desire in humans to procreate and build a family is inherited from God.

It is the attributes of the Father God that we all pine for to coalesce with. That inner longing to have life is the evidence. It is the expression of God within each one of us. All of the morality we can infer stems from God’s virtue. It is an inherited virtue as the poets have said, “For we are also his offspring” – Acts 17:28. As you cannot deny the traits and disposition that the parental lineage would impart, you cannot deny the spiritual inclination within us to do good, reflecting the nature of our heavenly Father.

The qualities of the Father God are what we all desire to unite with. Our inner desire for life is proof of this. It is the manifestation of God within each of us. Every moral value we possess is a reflection of God’s virtue. Just as we inherit traits and characteristics from our parents, we also inherit spiritual qualities. The longing to do good and avoid evil is a reflection of the nature of our heavenly Father.

He is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen – 1 Timothy 6:15,16.

BUT

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 4:6.

When Jesus assured his disciples, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you” – John 14:18, the term used, “orphanos,” signifies being bereaved (“orphan”), essentially parentless: — comfortless, fatherless. He was displaying the depth of God’s love for us. He was reassuring them of His plan for the entirety of creation, particularly humanity since He knew the ramifications, the pain, and the terror of being estranged from the Creator God.

He came not only to redeem man, but also to destroy the source of all evil, death, and decay. He accomplished this by His incarnation and death on the cross, which served as a propitiation and ransom for all. For the Word of God, the Lord from heaven who became incarnate as Christ Jesus is the exact representation of His person, undivided and sharing the same glory as God.

The indivisibility of the Godhead implies that God’s divine nature is united and inseparable. It suggests that God’s divine essence is one and the same. The term “unity of the Godhead” refers to the fact that God exists in three separate yet interdependent persons: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. Despite having distinct characteristics, these three who bear record in heaven are one.

Let me point out some unique characteristics of the Godhead. One distinctive trait I have learned about the Holy Ghost is His self-effacing nature. He does not seek the limelight (He does not speak of Himself or glorify Himself); instead, His joy lies in glorifying the Father and the Son. Consider His words: “And truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ” – 1 John 1:3.

Why this uniqueness? Jesus is seated on the right hand of the Father and has a heavenly abode. But God hath sent the Holy Ghost to be with His ecclesia. It is the Holy Ghost that seals us and baptizes us into one entity. He is the one that compacts and holds the body together. The relationship of the Spirit and the Church is inseparable. The Church cannot be the church without the Holy Ghost. The church is comprised of saints in heaven and on earth and each person whether they be in heaven or earth is intertwined by the Spirit of God. So, even though the Holy Ghost is a person in the Godhead, He cherishes to be part and parcel of the body of Christ; He abodes within the church as His own Temple to enable the saints to worship, pray, and adore the Father and the Son Jesus Christ. When we pray and sing and do anything within this body—we do it in partnership with the Spirit. He must enable us to pray and sing and to do and to will of His good pleasure – Philippians 2:13. Our hearts are His permanent abode. We are the temple of the Holy Ghost – 1 Corinthians 6:19. He dwells in a believer and makes intercession for us – Romans 8:26,27. He does not take to Himself any worship, but He dwells in a believer and directs the worship toward the Father and the Son. That’s what makes Him unique. It was through the eternal Spirit that Jesus was able to offer himself without spot to God – Hebrews 9:14.

The Bible speaks of: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost” – 2 Corinthians 13:14. Even here, the distinction in features within the Godhead is clear. It signifies the intimate relationship, partnership, and communion believers have with the Holy Spirit. It emphasizes the idea of sharing in the life and work of the Spirit, as well as experiencing His presence, guidance, and empowerment in our lives. We believed the Holy Spirit was present to assist us in our tasks. His bond with us goes deeper than that. In reality, He allows us to share in His job. We follow His work within us, rather than the opposite – Philippians 1:6.

“It is crucial to understand a fundamental principle: we must be mindful not to cause sorrow to the Holy Spirit, as He is susceptible to being grieved. It is imperative that we avoid grieving Him, as He is the source of our vitality and sustenance.” Ephesians 4:30 During our spiritual infancy, we are all prone to grieve Him, and He understands our frame; and as a parent pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear him – Psalm 103:13. When an adult son wishes to defy his father’s desire, that’s what deeply saddens the Father’s heart. We have had fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? – Hebrews 12:9.

Another remarkable aspect of the Spirit of God is that, although one could be pardoned for blaspheming the Father and the Son, blaspheming the Spirit is viewed as a transgression leading to eternal condemnation. The profound mysteries of the Godhead remain unrevealed to us, beyond the grasp of our limited understanding. Yet, as we draw insights from the Scriptures, we observe the Spirit’s traits of sensitivity, gentleness, and purity, which highlight His nature – as depicted in Galatians 5:22,23 and Ephesians 4:30, potentially shaping this assertion.

Even though there isn’t a specific verse that explicitly mentions sins or blasphemy against both the Father and the Son in the same context. However, the concept of sinning against both the Father (God) and the Son (Jesus Christ) is often understood in Christian theology as both being part of the triunity, with any offense against one being considered an offense against the other due to their unity in the Godhead.

Holy Ghost is the personification of purity and power (dunamis) – Acts 1:8; He is like a refiner’s fire and fuller’s soap, purifying whatever He touches – Malachi 3:2; Luke 3:16,17. He must remain and purify His temple as He is holy. Though He proceeds from the Father – John 15:26, He possesses His own mind/will – Romans 8:27. This can also be interpreted as the Holy Spirit being associated with conviction, guidance, and the revelation of God’s truth because He alone knows the things of God – 1 Corinthians 2:11.

Therefore, blasphemy against Him might be viewed as a purposeful rejection or denial of the Spirit’s work, constituting an unforgivable sin due to its direct assault on the character and essence of God. Such an act is not pardoned in this life or the next – Matthew 12:31,32; Mark 3:28,29; Luke 12:10.

When many ministers of God teach about fellowship with the Holy Spirit, here He tells us about having fellowship with the Father and with the Son. Those in whom the Holy Spirit resides are motivated by a profound love for the Father and Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit will never seek to draw attention to Himself. The immense love that the Holy Ghost has for the Father and Jesus Christ propels those who are filled with Him towards the persons of the Father and the Son.

Jesus too has the trait to some extent that we often see him delighted in glorifying his Father while he was on earth in the body of his flesh. The Holy Ghost is unique, yet He is the Spirit of God/Father; He proceeds from the Father. And when the Father is glorified, the Holy Ghost is glorified. The unity in the Godhead is so profound that one could perceive the Holy Ghost as the Father Himself. Mary was found with the child of the Holy Ghost – Matthew 1:18; Jesus, the Son of the most high God – Mark 5:7; he shall be called the Son of the Highest – Luke 1:32; The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God – Luke 1:35. Although the three persons of the Godhead are one (“τρεῖς” – treis, literally means three), the Father is regarded by both the Holy Ghost and Jesus Christ as the highest order in the Godhead, as they both originate from the Father – John 8:42/ 14:26/15:26; Acts 2:33. The Spirit of truth said, My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all – John 10:29; the head of Christ is God (the supreme Divinity) 1 Corinthians 11:3.

The Father is the great Judge – God the Judge of all and He sits on a great white throne; who is the blessed and only Potentate (of great authority), the King of kings, and Lord of lords – 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 20:11; Hebrews 12:23. And we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous – 1 John 2:1; who is set down at the right hand of the throne of God – Hebrews 10:12/12:2; Romans 8:34; Acts 2:33; Mark 16:19.

The incarnated Christ said he that hath seen him hath seen the Father. He said that he is in the Father, and the Father is in him; that, whatsoever ye shall ask in his name, that will He do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son – John 14:9-11. Jesus attested that He and his Father are one – John 10:30.

The Lord is that Spirit – 2 Corinthians 3:17. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty – 2 Corinthians 3:17. Who is the Lord? God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord (kurios) and Christ (Christos – Messiah) – Acts 2:36. Jesus is the holy Spirit, the Spirit of sonship, the child of the Holy Ghost and the Holy Ghost is the Spirit of the Father, the Spirit of God. The Father is the source of both the Son and the Holy Ghost, and because Jesus Christ is God, so is the Spirit of Christ. That is the unity of the Godhead.

If you look closely, it appears that there are just two persons in the Godhead: the Father is represented by the Spirit of God, also known as the Holy Ghost, and the resurrected Christ is represented by the Spirit of Christ. But you must understand that the Son or the man Jesus was created but the Word of God, who was with the Father exists. So, the Spirit of Christ is none other than the Word of God Himself who exited with the Father; only that He hath taken upon Him a human form.

It’s crucial to comprehend that while Jesus, as a man, was made and had a beginning, the Word of God, who was with the Father, has coexisted with God. The Word of God is the Lord from heaven; the Lord is that Spirit – 1 Corinthians 15:47; 2 Corinthians 3:17. Jesus, the Son of man (the human self) He calls, “Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee”. I will be to him a Father, and he (the Word of God) shall be to me a Son – Hebrews 1:5; Acts 13:33; Psalm 2:7/89:26,27. However, despite being depicted as the Father’s Spirit, the Holy Ghost existed as a distinct person within the Godhead, possessing His own volition while remaining indivisible. It is therefore correct to say that both the Holy Ghost and the Spirit of Christ (holy Spirit – the Spirit of Sonship) proceed from the Father to accomplish His will.

Before the Son of God was introduced (incarnation), the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost were seen as one, with life concentrated in the Father. Now, with the Son being introduced, the Father has decided that the life should be concentrated in the person of the Son, at least for now, until the restitution of all things. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself – John 5:26; And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life, and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life – 1 John 5:11,12. For it pleased the Father that in Christ should all fulness dwell – Colossians 1:19; For in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. – Colossians 2:9.

Since Jesus, being the Word of God incarnate (the hypostatic union), shares the same essence as the Father, it is fitting to designate him as God. For He is God. The great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life – 1 John 5:20. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6.

The Son saves – Hebrews 7:25; John 4:42; 1 John 4:14, the Holy Ghost seals (to set a seal upon, a mark or a seal for security or authentication purposes) – Ephesians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 12:13, and the Father secures – John 10:29

It is an undeniable fact that we dwell in a fallen, decaying world. The existence of evil, wickedness, immorality, and various dark and vile elements that define this world serves as clear proof of its decay. Simultaneously, as previously mentioned, due to God’s care, no creation can be isolated from God’s profound and deeply ingrained presence or the awareness of God, as it is often expressed. Therefore, I would argue that evil is an essential component within the boundaries of the fallen world that has been created. This only serves to emphasize the awareness of God.

If you can perceive – if your senses can grasp the spiritual laws that govern our moral compass to discern between good and bad, including what is considered as wickedness or moral depravity, as well as the language we use – you will see that language is divinely instituted; it is divine, and all the work of God within man. No matter how hard you try to deny it or attribute it to another source, the truth of God cannot be removed from our DNA.

Your oratory expression and voice cords are intended to express Him, to speak about things with the intention of reaching that conclusion, that degree of expressing God. And people, the highest embodiment of God, I purposefully stated that the extent to which humanity can experience God is only via man. That is the highest means by which God can manifest Himself.

“For that which may be known of God is manifest in them; God hath showed it unto them. The invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse” – Romans 1:19,20.

However, the man was unable to identify its originator. Sin has obscured his ability to view his creator. Furthermore, there will never be another introduction to God save via the person of Jesus Christ, who is the final and perfect manifestation of the Divine. This is the final invitation to turn from sin and turn to God.

The ox knows his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider – Isaiah 1:3.

And the times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commands all men everywhere to repent – Acts 17:30. Why?

This time, God made certain that no stone was left unturned, removing all impediments, bounds, and blinders so that man could freely approach God via Jesus Christ. God has consecrated a new and living way into the most holy place for us via the blood of Jesus so that we can approach Him without fear through Christ – Hebrews 10:19,20/4:16. How will anyone escape if they reject such a tremendous salvation? Hebrews 2:3, 1 Peter 4:17, 2 Thessalonians 1:8.

Humans were created in the image and likeness of God to serve as His representatives in the world. However, humanity failed to uphold this responsibility. Consequently, God sent Jesus of Nazareth, the good shepherd, to lead the way and show us the path to redemption. Through his ultimate act of sacrifice, Jesus was able to meet the demands of the entire world and restore it to its former glory.

Having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him God reconciled all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled. In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight – Colossians 1:20-22. God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us – Romans 5:8.

Why are men still hesitant and unwilling to accept/ seize this promise of life, the gift of God without any effort on their part? That’s the extent to which they have declined. And unless God saves, no one can be saved. However, God cannot save people who are not desperate. Unless one is desperate, God cannot save them. Jesus invited those who were weary and heavy laden – Matthew 11:28.

Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe – 1 Corinthians 1:20,21.

If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness – 1 Corinthians 3:18-20.

For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence – 1 Corinthians 1:26-29.

God cannot be defined by mere words; He must be experienced. Taste (ta`am) and see the Lord; that is to feel after Him and find him – Acts 17:27; Psalm 34:8. No creature can deny experiencing God. His spirit is the breath that keeps the body alive. When the spirit departs from the body, it is said to be deceased – James 2:26. All the while my breath is in me, and the spirit of God is in my nostrils – Job 27:3. It is the Spirit of Christ in our breath – Lamentation 4:20, affirming our Creator and the breath given to us – “the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” – Genesis 2:7; by him were all things created and all things consist – Colossians 1:16,17. This confirms that no being can deny experiencing God. For they exist in God and are a part of Him; the offspring of God (offspring is genos, which means, descendants or children of God in a spiritual sense expressing a close relationship or connection between us and God); as the Poet says, we walk, live, and have our being in God – Acts 17:28,29. God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created he them – Genesis 1:27. He surpasses His creation; He must exist outside of His creation. The Bible explicitly states that nothing can contain the Almighty One.

If He is omnipotent, He should also be omnipresent and omniscient. Therefore, the universe must exist within Him, and He transcends all created realms. Simultaneously, He must also reside within it to sustain all things through the power of His word. His presence is necessary to maintain the cohesion of all things.

“If God is omnipotent, then He must also be omnipresent and omniscient. This means that He transcends all created worlds and exists beyond them. Yet, at the same time, He must be present within the cosmos to sustain everything with the word of His power. All things are held together by His presence. It is His presence alone that holds all things together”. Colossians 1:17 says, in Christ, all things are held together or sustained, which emphasizes the idea that Jesus Christ is the sustainer and unifier of all creation. And he is before all things – Colossians 1:17. It is no surprise that He declared, “Truly, truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I AM (eimi – exist)”; I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last – Revelation 1:11; I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for there is no Saviour beside me – Hosea 13:4; our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:11/2:20/3:18; God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ – 1 Timothy 1:1; Titus 1:4; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13; I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me – Isaiah 45:5; This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spoke to Moses in the mount Sinai – Acts 7:38.

The Father, the Holy Ghost, and Christ are one – 1 John 5:7. Christ embodies both the Father and the Holy Ghost – Colossians 1:19/2:9; John 10:30/14:9-11. He is God manifest in flesh – 1 Timothy 3:16; the Word who was God was made flesh, and dwelt among us – John 1:1-14.

The unity of God is beyond human comprehension and cannot be fully understood or analyzed by human intellect alone; the three persons within the Godhead are so interconnected and intertwined that they cannot be separated or fully dissected, despite each person having distinct characteristics, which underscores the depth of the divine nature and the complexity of understanding the unity and diversity within the Triune Godhead.

Only through Jesus Christ can we truly know God. It is only through Christ that God has revealed Himself. For Christ is God. Therefore, salvation comes by calling upon the name of the Lord – Acts 2:21; Romans 10:13. For in Him is life; and He is the life of man – 1 John 5:11; John 1:4. Connecting with Christ is essential for a fulfilling life. He is the source of our existence, without whom we would perish. Thus, we must unite with him as urgently and significantly as we connect our devices to power sources. He that hath the Son hath life, and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life – 1 John 5:12.

Oh, Israel, it was Christ who was with you in the wilderness that brought you out of the house of bondage, yet you failed to recognize Him when He came to you in human form. The Lord of hosts is his name, thy Maker; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel – Isaiah 54:5. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me – John 14:9. The ox knows his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider – Isaiah 1:3.

For objects to maintain their shape and form and for things to stay animated, He must have His control over everything. He is the breath of life; He must be the breath as no other created beings can claim to provide breath. How can any created realm that cannot exist on its own without the influence of its creator claim to be the origin of life?

God exists and is not a created Being. He is the source, the fountain, the beginning, etc. Things must be upheld by an external power, which must be God. Therefore, we cannot say that creation exists as it is dependent upon the external force known as God who is “self-exists and self-sufficient”.

Jesus unequivocally proved his divinity through his awe-inspiring actions on earth- raising the dead and claiming the power to resurrect himself – John 10:17,18.

Some consider creation to be the result of an explosion. This is absurd. Explosions do the opposite; they do not create but destroy. Explosions are generally seen as destructive events. They result in a sudden release of energy, usually causing harm, damage, or disturbance to the nearby surroundings. Destruction can pave the way for new growth, progress, or building to occur. The process entails substituting or changing the old with something fresh rather than generating from nothing. Creating involves giving life to something that did not exist before.

The terms “forming” and “creating” have distinct meanings:

“Forming” typically refers to shaping or molding something that already exists into a particular form or structure. For example, the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground – Genesis 2:7. The body is formed out of the existing dust.

“Creating,” on the other hand, involves bringing something new into existence that did not previously exist. For example, God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them – Genesis 1:27. The human spirit is created there.

While both terms involve the generation of something, “forming” implies a process of shaping or structuring, whereas “creating” implies the initiation of something entirely new.

The term “self-existing God” describes that God exists independently and does not rely on anything external for His existence. This emphasizes the self-sufficiency and eternal nature of God, highlighting the idea that God is not created or dependent on any other being or entity. Describing God as self-existing underscores the belief in His eternal existence and divine nature as the ultimate source of all existence.

God is self-sufficient. The term “self-sufficient God” usually denotes the idea that God is autonomous and does not depend on anything external for existence or power. It indicates that God is whole in Himself and does not need anything or anyone else to be truly God. This concept is commonly linked with the notions of God’s all-powerfulness, all-presence, and all-knowing.

And the living things must be sustained by the breath of God.

The breath of God is not as you imagine a mere wind that passes through our nostrils. If the wind in nature could give life, then anything it blows on must come to life. However, we know wind has no life-giving substance. On the other hand, the breath of the omnipresent God gives and sustains life wherever it blows. You cannot assign a different word for breath; it is so intertwined with the spirit of God. Breath is not something without motion; it is exhaling, inhaling, it has motion, it has some kind of life. Wind (Anemos – air current) propels natural elements, while God’s breath sustains life on Earth. While God’s breath (Ruwach) is likened to the wind, this life-giving wind is a spirit– representing the spirit of God or a life-giving force. The breath of God comes from the four corners of the earth as four winds. The scripture states clearly that there are four winds in nature and four winds that symbolize the breath of God as well – Ezekiel 37:9; Revelation 7:1.

If it was an element like the wind which carries oxygen into the lungs that keep us alive then that would not be stable, even though the gaseous element oxygen is involved in it. The book of Lamentations speaks of “the breath of our nostrils” as the mashiyach (Anointed) of the Lord – 4:20; John 1:4. It must then mean; it is a spirit that the breath is comprised of. You cannot see the breath. When this spirit leaves the body, it turns into a corpse. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it – Ecclesiastes 12:7. It is the presence of the spirit in man that pulls in the desired elements of the world to keep it alive. The elements of the world are attracted to the divine in all living things to keep them alive. When the spirit departs, the living things expire. This man contends with God yet is sustained and kept by Him. With a mouth that needs to be fed by God, he speaks blasphemy against Him. How is that possible?

Jesus Christ is the word of God by which all things are sustained and upheld. He is the breath of our nostrils – Lamentations 4:20 (it emphasizes the essential nature or life-giving aspect of this individual in our life). When God speaks, things are created.

Jesus Christ is the foundation of all things, sustaining and upholding creation. Described as the very essence of life, the breath of our nostrils, in Lamentations 4:20, His presence is vital to our existence (“breath of our nostrils” – it emphasizes the essential nature or life-giving aspect of this person in our life). Through His spoken Word, creation comes into being.

“What proceeds out of His mouth will not return void without fulfilling its purpose because He is the ultimate power. His word goes forth and creates things. His Word is a Being, the eternal Spirit – 2 Corinthians 3:17, that proceeds from God, indivisible, co-equal with God, and co-exists with God. This Word of God took upon Him the sinful nature for the redemption of man. God cannot be present in His absoluteness when things are created. If He is present in all His unspeakable splendour and unapproachable splendid majesty, the things that are created won’t withstand His magnificence.”

I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them – Revelation 20:11. God is terrible in majesty and great in power. He tried to speak to the children of Israel, and they pleaded with Him through Moses that He should not speak to them as it was terrible for their senses to bear. They told Moses, let not God speak with us, lest we die – Exodus 20:19; they said, if we hear the voice of the Lord our God anymore, then we shall die. For whom is there of all flesh, that hath heard the voice of the living God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as we have, and lived? Deuteronomy 5:25,26. It was the glory of the Lord that abode upon Mount Sinai – Exodus 24:16; yet they could not endure. One can imagine what would happen if man was exposed to the reality of God. God said, for there shall no man see me and live. To Moses, He said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee: Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock. And it shall come to pass, while my glory passes by, that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: And I will take away my hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen – Exodus 33:19-23. And that cleft was Christ, the Word of God –1 Corinthians 10:4; Revelation 19:13.

After the Tabernacle was erected in the wilderness, it was the Lord their God who walked amid their camp – Deuteronomy 23:14; this time, it is the Word of God, the Lord, who was in the church in the wilderness with the fathers – Acts 7:38. His presence can be tolerated by chosen humans in a limited fashion as it is the glory of God that filled the Temple – Revelation 15:8.

The chosen ones had to possess the Spirit of God (the anointed of the Lord – Maw-shee’-akh – Mashiyach) to fulfill the roles of King, Priest, and Prophet. Without this special anointing, no one could endure God’s glory, much less God’s actual presence. You now understand the seriousness of what is meant when 1 Chronicles 16:22 and Psalm 105:15 state, “Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” The holy apostles of the Lamb were anointed with such a powerful anointing that when Ananias and Sapphira lied, it was seen as lying to the Lord Himself – Acts 5:1. They were judged and immediately fell dead. Through the hands of the holy apostles – Ephesians 3:5; Revelation 18:20, God performed many signs and wonders among the people. They brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and couches so that even Peter’s shadow passing by might overshadow some of them. The church in Galatia even welcomed Paul as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus – Galatians 4:14. Such was the remarkable anointing they possessed.

It is unsettling to hear modern-day ministers of the gospel who do not understand the value and meaning of the anointing, placing themselves in the same category as the ministers who were called “gods” to whom the word of God came (John 10:35).

Is it possible for us to have the same anointing as those in the past? Yes, but only to a certain degree, and it is solely for ministering and not for receiving direct revelation from God. There are numerous examples throughout church history of individuals who experienced a powerful and transformative anointing, which had a significant impact on the course of history.

God spoke His word to bring forth the world. He spoke the word and brought things into existence because of the overpowering essence of His being – Hebrews 11:3. He dwells in a light that no mortal can approach and is beyond the light-year zone, beyond the realm of time and space. Despite this vastness, He remains intimately connected to His creations; His presence is essential for their existence and animation, whether transiently or through His Spirit.

“The ultimate manifestation of God that creation can encounter is embodied in the form of a human being. This concept leads us to the significance of incarnation. The necessity of incarnation arises from the essential need within the divine realm for a Son of man to be incorporated to relate to humanity. The Word of God bore a resemblance to humanity, as we were originally crafted in His image. Jesus did not emulate man; rather, Adam was fashioned in His likeness. Therefore, when it is stated that Jesus was made in the likeness of man, it is crucial to acknowledge that man was also created in the image of the Lord God to govern and oversee the rest of creation.”

The Lord is a man (אִישׁ – ish) of war: the Lord is his name – Exodus 15:3. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him – Genesis 5:1. John witnessed the Lord in His exalted form, not as a distinct being or dissimilar to us, but bearing the form and resemblance of a man as described in Revelation 1:13-17. This glory was what Jesus entreated the Father for, and we are destined to be akin to Him. O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was – John 17:5.

“While God is inherently a Spirit, He embodies a form and essence that mirrors the human form. Jesus conveyed, ‘You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form‘ (John 5:37), yet the Son, who is intimately close to the Father, has beheld Him and understands Him (John 1:18). Jesus further proclaimed, ‘Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father’ (John 14:9).”

“It is imperative for humanity to restore the intimate relationship with God, akin to the communion that the first Adam experienced in the garden, and that’s what Jesus came and restored.”

The fundamental inquiry arises: Why does evil exist? How did it originate? Did God intentionally create evil? The presence of evil serves to enhance our understanding and appreciation of goodness, without the contrast of evil, the concept of good remains obscure. The Scriptures affirm that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12); however, the introduction of the law brought about my demise. Prior to the law, I was unaware of sin; it was through the law that I became conscious of desires, as it stated, “Thou shalt not covet” (Romans 7:7). In this context, the adage “ignorance is bliss” finds relevance. The commandment intended for life led to death; it incited within me a longing for the forbidden (epithumia) (Romans 7:8,10). When God instructed Adam, “Do not eat from that tree” (Genesis 2:17), it ignited within him a desire for the forbidden, sparking curiosity that ultimately led to his downfall. The question arises: Why did the commandment bring about death for Adam, who was created as a unique and flawless being? This narrative suggests that the environment from which Adam emerged was not flawless; it was previously under the dominion of an entity known as ‘Satan,’ the “anointed cherub that covers” (Ezekiel 28:14), who rebelled against God.

Within the phrase “the anointed cherub that covereth,” the term “covereth” connotes the act of protection, shielding, or guarding. It suggests a duty of providing cover or protection, potentially symbolizing a position of authority or responsibility in safeguarding or protecting something or someone.

“The earth was devastated and engulfed by water, serving as the body of water from which God brought forth the Adamic world, akin to a womb from which it is brought forth, mirroring the natural process where a woman brings forth her seed. This imagery symbolizes a profound act of creation and renewal in the narrative of the Earth’s formation. It is speculated that this may elucidate why Adam was susceptible to fall, as the physical form fashioned by God for Adam was deemed inferior in its composition. The initial man is described as “of the earth, earthy” (choikos) in 1 Corinthians 15:47.

In Hebrew, the phrase “The first man is of the earth, earthy” can be translated as “האדם הראשון הוא מן האדמה, אדמתי” (ha’adam harishon hu min ha’adamah, adamati). The term “earthy” in this context can be translated as “אדמתי” (adamati), which means related to the earth or earthly in nature. It suggests a connection to the physical, material world as opposed to the spiritual or divine.

“It also suggests that the nature of the first man is inferior to that of the last, the last Adam. The initial man, Adam, was made a living soul; whereas the last Adam was made a quickening spirit – as stated in 1 Corinthians 15:45-50. Only a soul regenerated by the Spirit of God can access the kingdom of God and transform into a spiritual being.” As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly – 1 Corinthians 15:48-50. And Jesus confirmed that those born of God are not earthy anymore but are new creatures – John 15:19; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15.

“If Adam was of earthly nature (a living soul), what then was the condition of the earth from which he was taken? It is described as a fallen world in Ezekiel 28 and 31, as well as in Isaiah 14, which was the domain of Lucifer prior to his descent.” The desecration of Lucifer’s dominion resulted in the environment from which the first man emerged.

The essence conveyed is that one’s appreciation for light is heightened through an understanding of the impact of darkness. Redemption gains significance through an awareness of the effects of sin. Freedom is valued by recognizing the plight of condemnation and captivity. Embracing the experience of evil and its consequences fosters a deeper connection with God, leading to acceptance of His forgiveness and tender mercies. Love is truly appreciated in the presence of hate and rejection. What one has not encountered holds a certain allure. This principle applies to both virtuous and malevolent aspects of life, reflecting the inherent nature inherited from Adam. Similarly, embracing Christ allows one to partake in His nature. As we have borne the image of the earthly, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly (1 Corinthians 15:48,49).

“The light has entered the world, yet individuals favoured darkness over light due to the nature of their actions – as mentioned in John 3:19. This preference stems from the necessity of evil to comprehend goodness. The appreciation of light is contingent upon the existence of darkness; darkness must precede light for its radiance to be perceived. Both light and darkness possess unique virtues. The night serves a purpose for creatures, facilitating rest and rejuvenation. In the book of Genesis, two forms of night and day are delineated: the natural cycle of day and night, marked by sunrise and sunset established on the fourth day by God, and the initial separation of light from darkness on the first day, carrying profound spiritual significance.”

“Apostle Paul alluded to this concept when he stated, ‘For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ’ (2 Corinthians 4:6; Genesis 1:1-4). The darkness mentioned in Genesis, which covered the face of the deep, is described as ‘choshek,’ signifying misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness, and obscurity. This darkness differs from the natural dusk following sunset. The transformation from darkness to light is symbolized in Matthew 4:16, ‘The people who sat in darkness saw great light, and to them who sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.’ Acts 26:18 further emphasizes this transition, ‘To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.'”

The Greek word used in the New Testament for “darkness” is “skotos”. The Greek word “skotos” and the Hebrew word “choshek” both carry a similar meaning of “darkness”. Both words are used to describe the absence of light or a state of being without illumination.

The spiritual light now illuminates the hearts of humanity. Why do individuals value this light? Why do men long for life? They have been confined in darkness and the shadow of death; a burden not meant for them. Within the core of human nature resides a memory of a forgotten life in Adam, leading them to desolation, with only the rediscovery of that absent component bestowing upon them the enlightenment they seek. “The entrance of thy words giveth light” – Psalm 119:130; “the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” – 2 Corinthians 4:6.

The night of darkness (the nocturnal night) is confined within the limits of time and space, existing in the earthly domain. The spiritual light we discussed is personified; it embodies a person. The antithesis of “choshek” is “araphel,” which pertains to God. This represents the darkness where God resides. Moses approached the thick darkness (“araphel“) where God was present – Exodus 20:21; the Lord addressed the entire assembly from the mountain amidst the fire, cloud, and thick darkness with a powerful voice – Deuteronomy 5:22. The Lord declared that He would dwell in the thick darkness – 1 Kings 8:12; 2 Chronicles 6:1. The only verse where both terms are used is found in Deuteronomy 4:11: “the mountain burned with fire unto the midst of heaven, with darkness (‘araphel’), clouds, and thick darkness (‘choshek’).” “He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion around him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies” – Psalm 18:11; “darkness was under his feet” – Psalm 18:9.

If I had not known or experienced evil, it could be described in various terms. I can only do so when asked to define evil based on my encounters. We cannot simply point at someone and label them as evil. Instead, we identify evil through wicked actions. Why and how do we distinguish it? This ability stems from an innate knowledge ingrained within us, a consequence of the fall. It stems from the tree of good and evil that Adam partook of, leading to his separation from God. This knowledge is now deeply ingrained within everyone. Even one without linguistic abilities can discern evil due to the suffering and anguish it brings. Even without the ability to verbalize the concept of evil, an individual can still perceive its abnormality and recognize its lack of the attributes of peace, which are exclusive to God.

One might label someone as evil or designate certain actions as evil, but such categorizations do not fully encapsulate the essence of evil. Evil is regarded as a spiritual entity. If it is the Spirit of God that bestows life, as stated in the Scriptures and is received by a redeemed individual, then there must exist a spirit that promotes chaos, a spirit that operates within those who defy God’s will – Ephesians 2:2; Job 41:34.

The awareness of sin, a consequence of the fall, has imparted an understanding of both evil and good to me. It is a law at work within our physical beings that leads to this sense of condemnation – Romans 7:23; an ordinance that stood against us, acting in opposition to us – Colossians 2:14. This curse of the law is what Christ liberates individuals from – Galatians 3:13.

Wickedness is a malevolent entity, a spiritual essence. When attempting to delineate the concept of evil, I can only draw from my life experiences. The feelings of emptiness, despair, lifelessness, hopelessness, chaos, anger, pain, and sorrow all constitute the grip of death. Chaos stands in stark contrast to Shalom. Light symbolizes “knowledge,” while darkness embodies “ignorance or lack of knowledge.” Each possesses a spiritual essence that brings forth its consequences. One emanates from divine wisdom, while the other stems from earthly, sensual, and devilish origins – as noted in James 3. The knowledge of God radiates light, while the absence of such knowledge casts darkness.

The human intellect is bestowed for a purpose: to receive the knowledge of God. I once found myself devoid, filled with unrighteousness, yet when the Spirit of God descended upon me, the illuminating knowledge of God in the face of Jesus Christ took residence within me, dispelling darkness. The entrance of His word brought forth light.

As my comprehension and awareness expanded, so too did the emptiness and formlessness within my soul; the void intensified and drove me toward spiritual death. The forces of sin and death flourished within me, enveloping my entire being in darkness. The weight of this burden grew so heavy that without God’s mercy, I would have perished in sin and ignorance. Thus, I have gained first-hand knowledge of evil and now possess an experiential understanding of all goodness, which is found in God.

Death is defined as the void left by the absence of the knowledge of God. This knowledge serves as a catalyst for life and illumination. Death signifies a disconnection from God. Conversely, the acquaintance with God reunites me with Him, compelling death to retreat. This profound understanding of God is exclusively attained through the embodiment of Christ; those who transition into the realm of life have transcended from death to life due to the illumination that has graced their hearts.

Therefore, human existence is not meant to culminate in its fallen state. Rather, this state of moral corruption must serve as a catalyst to lead individuals back to the origin of life. The shadows of darkness that envelop us either beckon for or reveal their scarcity of light and life. A troubled heart, lacking in peace and solace, often succumbs to seeking tranquillity and comfort in misguided avenues such as alcohol, drugs, addictions, immoral behaviour, and lustful desires.

The prevailing chaos serves as a poignant reminder of an essential void within us. It signifies our deficiency in the divine life bestowed upon us by God, our Creator. This chaos reflects a deep yearning for life and attempting to fill this void with earthly elements proves to be futile. God calls upon all individuals universally to repent – Acts 17:30, as He desires not the destruction of any, but the redemption of all through repentance – 2 Peter 3:9. Repentance entails a redirection from our current path towards God, rather than pursuing transient gratifications offered by this earthly existence, in order to attain the wholeness and life we long for. Repentance does not simply entail confessing individual sins, as our transgressions are numerous and beyond human capacity to fully catalog. Rather, repentance signifies the return of Israel to God, whom they have neglected and abandoned, and the awakening of the Gentiles to the understanding of God.

Darkness serves as a guidepost leading us toward light. The state of moral corruption indicates a crucial deficiency within us. In the beginning, God distinctly separated darkness from light, signifying their inherent incompatibility. The knowledge of God must be imparted through the workings of the Spirit of God.

God, though appearing distant, residing in an unapproachable light, remains near to us through His Spirit, ensuring that we are not left isolated to confront the repercussions of our moral decline on our own. He has provided a means of escape from all our corruption. The question remains: will we choose to embrace it? Those who find themselves at the brink of despair may grasp onto this lifeline, while regrettably, many may choose otherwise.

The ebb and flow of the ocean’s waves are not the final manifestation of water, but rather the result of an unseen wind exerting its influence. The motion of the wind generates waves, influenced by factors like the moon and other celestial bodies. Everything in nature is interconnected. Drawing a parallel, I liken the waves to evil or trials. Evil should not be viewed as the ultimate conclusion, but rather as a force that should guide us towards life and enlightenment. The unseen realm beckons us to acknowledge the presence of light and intangible realities, underscoring the availability of truth. God brought forth creation ex nihilo, not from the visible, but from nothingness.

The invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead – Romans 1:20.

Where does this awareness of God originate? It resides within every individual, irrespective of their acknowledgment or faith in God. Can this consciousness of God be erased or eradicated? It is impossible, as it represents a void or emptiness instilled in each of us by the fall. The fall drained the life from humanity and created an enduring emptiness that only God can fill. This indisputable reality serves as evidence of God’s existence. External validation from the scientific community is unnecessary to establish the existence of God; the proof lies within oneself. The evil within, the sinful inclinations, and the inherited ignorance resulting from the fall are the elements that cloud one’s understanding of God.

Death serves as evidence of life’s existence. If death is inherited by humanity at conception, then it stands to reason that life can also be inherited through a spiritual rebirth as instructed by Jesus – John 3:7; This implies that man must experience two births. Our natural birth signifies an entrance into death, characterized by suffering and mortality, while there must also be a second birth, an entry into life. If a person is preoccupied with pursuing worldly success and establishing themselves in this realm, then their entry into this world would have been in vain. Just as death is a palpable reality and experience, so is life, embodying the ultimate truth. Jesus came to introduce this life to humanity, to offer hope, and reveal that this life originates from Him. This life is found in Him alone. By placing our faith in Him, we can access this life, as He embodies the essence of life for mankind. No other entities can grant life, and none have extended this gift to humanity except Jesus, the Son of God.

How can created beings provide life when they themselves rely on God for sustenance? In this light, death can be nullified by embracing life through spiritual rebirth and placing faith in Jesus Christ alone. It is through our faith in the divine operation within us that life is fostered.

Even a child can discern that a deflated balloon lacks air. Death cannot be simply defined as the body’s decomposition. Similar to how the departure of air causes a balloon to deflate when the spirit departs from the body, decay sets in; conversely, the return of the spirit revitalizes the body. What, then, is this spirit? It must embody life and originate from a source. This source is none other than God, the eternal Spirit, the sole bestower of life.

We’ve explored who has the power to create life and who can bring about chaos. If we ignore this fundamental distinction, we might as well disregard everything else. Why do we label certain nations as the “axis of evil” if we fail to appreciate the importance of goodness? Your moral actions and inclinations towards goodness, particularly the act of love, are not just simple virtues; they are manifestations of the divine from within. Love is the presence of God within the human experience, an ultimate divine expression. Even those who deny God’s existence demonstrate love and kindness in their behaviour, unaware that these actions reflect God’s presence within them. They showcase divine qualities in various ways, yet they deny God due to their ignorance. Without the enlightenment of Divine knowledge, they remain in a state of spiritual darkness and death, devoid of true life.

This is the reason the Son of God came to bring life. He serves as the guiding light and core of human life, and only by embracing Him can we genuinely comprehend God. This explains why some people claim to know or believe in God but refuse to acknowledge His only Son. This disagreement is something that even evil forces, or demons, cannot reconcile; they work through humans to prevent or reject Jesus, who is the essence of human life. Accepting Him means being freed from the grips of darkness and death and stepping into the realm of eternal life and peace. There’s no other way to achieve this. The scripture confirms that God has granted us eternal life, and this life is found in His Son. Therefore, having the Son means having life, while lacking the Son of God means lacking true life, as stated in 1 John 5:11-12.

To believe in evil, essentially accepting the existence of the devil, while denying the existence of good, which represents God, is irrational. The traits of wickedness and those of righteousness are apparent and stem from two distinct realms. One from the world of darkness and the other from the world of light; one shrouded in darkness and the other bathed in light. And both have their masters. Can you call a nation without its governing body its legislation and the person that holds the rein? No nation can stand without being anchored in some form of spiritual belief—be it a philosophy, deity, or religion. Is there a nation that doesn’t rest on such a foundation? Every nation has its power and influence; so is these two spiritual worlds. No nation can thrive without the influence of the spiritual realm. The foundation of a nation is constructed on the principles of a particular belief system, deity, or religion. Is there a nation that doesn’t rest on such a foundation? The root of conflicts between nations often lies in the clash of these foundational beliefs. Nations built upon shared principles tend to form alliances, despite having differences in other areas, because their underlying belief systems are the same.

Beyond Western allies, the world features numerous other important groups and alliances, including the Eastern Bloc, BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in the Middle East, among others. Islamic countries often adopt legal systems that blend Islamic law (Sharia) with civil, customary, and other legal traditions. Other alliances are established through the member states’ treaties, agreements, and mutual interests, rather than sharing a single legal structure. Conflicts arise when these entities find themselves at odds over various issues.

Similarly, internal conflict or hostility within individuals, resulting from humanity’s fall, opposes all that represents divinity.

Creation acts as the conduit for the dissemination or manifestation of both good and evil. Without expression, it becomes impossible to describe or understand an entity. There must be a manifestation or expression to showcase the presence or reality of whatever is being conveyed. For example, Jesus is depicted as the precise embodiment of God. The mystery which hath been hidden from ages and generations, but now is made manifest to his saints – Colossians 1:26; Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world but was manifest in these last times for you – 1 Peter 1:20.

Language functions as a tool for the brain to interpret and comprehend.

When the life force is withdrawn from any living entity, it becomes lifeless, a corpse. Thus, the expressions or actions of a living being are manifestations of the spirit animating it, which is believed to be divine. Only God possesses eternal life; all other beings are created and rely on God for their sustenance. Therefore, treating any of God’s creations as divine or objects of worship is considered blasphemous and a violation of God’s sanctity.

In conclusion, this exploration into the essence of God and the profound questions surrounding His nature, presence, and relationship with humanity underscores a central tenet: the experience of God is not abstract but a tangible reality accessible to those who earnestly seek Him. Through the person of Jesus Christ—God incarnate—we are presented with the clearest expression of the divine, offering us a path to redemption, life, and eternal salvation. The narrative woven through scripture and the lived experiences of believers points to a God who desires a relationship with His creation, a God who reaches out with compassion even in the face of rejection.

The journey towards understanding God is marked by the recognition of our own limitations and the acceptance of divine grace offered through Jesus Christ. This grace transcends human understanding and historical acts of atonement, fulfilling the deep-seated human longing for redemption and connection with the divine. As we reflect on the essence of God, we are invited to embrace a life defined not by our sins or shortcomings but by the boundless love and mercy of God. This is the gospel message: a call to life in its fullest, found only in the embrace of the Almighty. Through faith in His Son, we are granted access to this life, marking the beginning of an eternal journey towards understanding, experiencing, and living in the presence of God.

“Beyond Redemption: Unravelling the Depths of CHRIST’ SACRIFICE and the Journey Towards SPIRITUAL RENEWAL”

Summary

This article delves into the profound theological concept of Christ's redemptive work, the ongoing relevance of Jesus removing our sins, and the intricate relationship between sin, law, and grace in the life of a believer. It touches on various aspects of Christian doctrine, including the nature of sin, the role of the law versus grace, the new nature in Christ, the struggle between spirit and flesh, and living a life characterized by love, righteousness, and spiritual maturity. This article explores the multifaceted implications of this divine act, such as the reconciliation with God and the empowerment to overcome sin's dominion. Furthermore, it addresses the ongoing struggle with sin among believers, distinguishing between sin and works of the flesh, and highlighting the importance of living a life transformed by grace and righteousness. Through scriptural references, the article navigates the complexities of human nature, the law versus grace debate, and the path to spiritual maturity in Christ.

The Redemptive Work of Christ

In the realm of Christian theology, few concepts are as central and transformative as the redemptive work of Christ. This divine act of love and sacrifice not only bridges the vast chasm between humanity and God caused by sin but also invites us into a journey of renewal and sanctification. As we embark on this exploration, it’s crucial to understand what it truly means for Jesus to bear our sins and the monumental implications of this for our spiritual lives and relationship with God.

One might ask, what is the significance of Jesus bearing our sins or eliminating our sins? What does it signify that he removed our sins?

Significance of Jesus Bearing Our Sins

Jesus carrying our sins and removing our sins is significant because it symbolizes the act of taking on the burden of our sins and offering forgiveness and redemption. It means that through his sacrifice, he has taken away the guilt and consequence of the Adamic sin, allowing us to be reconciled with God. He removed our past sins – Romans 3:25; Acts 17:30; He destroyed sin’s power and removed its dominion – Romans 6:14/8:3; but that did not remove our natural inclination towards sin, did it?

Christ’s Redemptive Work and Sin Removal

The essence of Christ bearing and removing our sins lies in the concept of substitutionary atonement. By willingly taking upon Himself the consequences of sin that humanity deserved, Christ provided a way for us to be reconciled with God. This act of love and sacrifice not only deals with the penalty of past sins but also offers believers the power to overcome sin’s dominion in their lives. However, it doesn’t automatically eradicate the human inclination towards sin, indicating the need for continuous spiritual growth and reliance on God’s grace.

The Ongoing Relevance of Sin Removal

Despite Christ’s work, the presence of sin and its effects in the world remains a reality for believers. Scriptures like Philippians 3:1, Jeremiah 17:9, and Romans 12:2 emphasize the ongoing struggle with sin and the call to a transformative life in Christ. This transformation involves a daily renewal of the mind and a pursuit of holiness that reflects a genuine relationship with God.

Why does God still view our bodies as corrupt if it had been different? Philippians 3:1 Why does God declare our hearts as deceitful and desperately wicked? Jeremiah 17:9 Why does God tell us to be transformed by the renewal of our minds? Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23 What is the reason for purifying ourselves from all impurities of the flesh and spirit, striving for complete holiness? 2 Corinthians 7:1 What is the reason for being told to abstain from fleshly lusts, flee from all forms of unrighteousness, and put off the old man which is corrupt?

Distinction Between Sin and Works of the Flesh

Human Nature and Inclination Towards Sin

The New Testament makes a clear distinction between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit. Believers are called to identify and resist the works of the flesh while nurturing their spiritual nature. This involves recognizing the difference between occasional failures and a lifestyle characterized by sin.

What about the wrongdoings that we engage in after accepting Christ? Can we label it as sin or works of the flesh? Firstly, according to the Spirit of Truth, anyone who continues to sin belongs to the devil – 1 John 3:8. Whoever is born of God does not continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them, and they cannot sin because they are born of God – 1 John 3:9. Is that a fact? This raises the question of whether sin is a collection of morally opposing traits within humans or the nature itself that Apostle John is referring to. Verse 10 highlights two characteristics of the new nature that differentiate the child of God from the children of the devil. It states that anyone who does not practice righteousness and anyone who does not love their brother is not of God – 1 John 3:10. This behaviour is the basis by which a person will be identified as belonging to one group or the other. One has the divine seed within them while the other does not, and that is what sets them apart.

Understanding the New Nature

One has a proclivity towards sin, that harbours hatred and is murderous as its founder – John 8:44; 1 John 2:9,11/3:15/4:20; the other, which is born of God, possesses a benevolent spirit that forgives and bears. The one born of God does possess both natures, so to speak; but the unregenerate is incapable or is dispossessed of working any righteousness at all. For sin dominates such.

The Struggle Between Spirit and Flesh

As a believer, I find joy in the law of God within my inner being – Romans 7:22. With my mind and spirit, I am devoted to serving the law of God; however, with my flesh, I am subject to the law of sin – Romans 7:25. The unrighteous are not so, they are dead to sin and at variance with God and the wrath of God abides in them as they are rooted in wickedness. But the righteous despite their frailty are rooted in the righteousness of God, as His seed remains in them.

Freedom from the Law

When we allow the Spirit to guide us (be led by Him), we are not bound by the law – Galatians 5:18; Romans 8:14; sin is not relevant in this context. Why? The law is the only thing that makes us aware of what sin is – Romans 7 We can only be considered to have sinned when there is a law in place. Since the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus liberates us from the law of sin and death, and when we are led by the Spirit, we are not bound by the law – Galatians 5:18; Romans 8:2, we cannot say we sin as sin has lost its power over us by the dismantling of the law.

Law and Sin

Law and sin are inextricably linked; they complement one another. One without the other does not exist. The law had a specific period of reign. It was instituted because of transgressions (the transgressions that were under the first Testament – Hebrews 9:15), TILL the seed should come to whom the promise was made – Galatians 3:19. The law was assigned as a schoolmaster to bring them to Christ, that they might be justified by faith – Galatians 3:24. But because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law, they stumbled at that stumbling stone – Romans 9:32. The law served as a tutor to lead people to Christ but cannot justify or sanctify in the way that faith in Christ does. Living under grace means believers are no longer condemned by the law but are called to live by the Spirit, fulfilling the law through love.

The Law’s Purpose and Fulfilment

The law was given to Israel and does not concern Gentiles, so there is no need to even talk about it within the Gentile community. Why are we even bringing it up when it has no relevance to us as Gentiles? The Jews too who are part of the body of Christ should not be concerned, as they are now married to another since their first husband (the Law) has died – Romans 7:1-4. Anyone who seeks to uphold the law is obligated to follow the entire law. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all – James 2:10. Those who try to revive it are no longer benefiting from Christ, and by doing so, they fall from grace and are separated from his life – Galatians 5:4,5.

The Transition from Law to Grace

The Israelites: to whom pertains the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came – Romans 9:4,5. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse – Galatians 3:10. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness – Romans 9:31. Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? Galatians 4:21

The Role of Love in Fulfilling the Law

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself – Galatians 5:13-14. We know that we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren (the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost – Romans 5:5). He that loveth not his brother abides in death – 1 John 3:14. Hence, love is the complete embodiment of the law – Romans 13:10. Use love as the standard by which you assess your life. Why would you subject yourself to any kind of condemnation when love can satisfy the entire law? Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion comes not of him that calls you – Galatians 5:7-8.

Living in Righteousness Through Faith

Now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets. Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all of them that believe – Romans 3:21,22. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes – Romans 10:4. Righteousness in the New Testament is described as a gift received through faith in Christ, not through adherence to the law. This imputed righteousness is a call to live out one’s faith in love and obedience, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Maintaining Righteousness Through the Spirit

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit – Romans 8:3,4.

Imputed Righteousness and Freedom from the Law

Even David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God IMPUTES RIGHTEOUSNESS without works – Romans 4:6-13. What is this righteousness? It is a blissful state free of the law. Do you now understand why it says, “Whoever is born of God does not sin” “for his seed remains in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God”? – 1 John 3:9 Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another – Romans 2:14,15.

The New Covenant and Cleansing from Sin

Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, this is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Let us draw near (to God – having boldness to enter the holiest by the blood of Jesus) with a true heart in full assurance of faith. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works – Hebrews 10:15-24. “Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more”.

Living in the Spirit and Overcoming Sin

The question now is: How are we cleansed and justified when we sin or fall according to the flesh or stumble in our human nature? In Christ, everything is automated. Simply put, live and walk in the Spirit. What is considered a sin at this point? All unrighteousness is sin – 1 John 5:17.

Forgiveness and Cleansing through Confession

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness – 1 John 1:9.
If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin – 1 John 1:7.
And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our sins – 1 John 2:1,2.

Freedom from Condemnation and Transformation into Righteousness

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit – Romans 8:1.

Through our birth in God, we are transformed into the righteousness of God in Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21. As is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly – 1 Corinthians 15:48. As “the righteousness of God,” we are not subject to judgment by the law, which is allotted for the wicked, the lawless, the disobedient, the ungodly, and sinners, for unholy, and profane – 1 Timothy 1:9.

Distinguishing Between the Children of God and the Children of the Devil

How do we distinguish or how can we tell the difference between the children of the devil and the children of God? Whosoever does not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loves not his brother – 1 John 3:10. I recall a story that supports my point. By faith, Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous – Hebrews 11:4; Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his works were evil, and his brother’s righteous – 1 John 3:12.

Righteousness Based on Heart Alignment

They were all deemed righteous in the sight of God, not because they followed specific rules or regulations, but because their hearts aligned with God’s standards; the disposition of their hearts was consistent with God’s standards. One was driven by hate, while the other was motivated by love.

The Importance of Love and Self-Examination

Whosoever hates his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him – 1 John 3:15. Do not pretend to follow Christianity and deceive yourselves, but instead, take the time to examine yourselves to see if you are in the faith. Test and evaluate yourselves – 2 Corinthians 13:5. Know ye, not yourselves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 2 Corinthians 13:5 Beloved if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another – 1 John 4:11. He that loveth not his brother abides in death – 1 John 3:14.

Characteristics of Love and Wisdom

Love suffers long and is kind; it envies not; it vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and hypocrisy – James 3:17.

Birth of the Spirit and Righteousness

To work righteousness, one must be born of God. Jesus said, “Except a man be born of water and the Spirit, HE CANNOT ENTER into the kingdom of God” – John 3:5. For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but RIGHTEOUSNESS, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost – Romans 14:17. When we are born of the Spirit of God, as mentioned in John 3:6, we receive the characteristics of God – 2Peter 1:4; Hebrews 12:10,11. Our spirit that is born of God is created after God in RIGHTEOUSNESS and true holiness – Ephesians 4:24.

Righteousness by Faith, Not Works

To him that works is the reward not reckoned of grace (for God imputes righteousness without works). But to him that works not, but believeth on him that justifies the ungodly, HIS FAITH IS COUNTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS – Romans 4:4-6. Because Israel sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law, they stumbled – Romans 9:32.

Living Out Righteousness

As we nurture the spirit within us – 1 Peter 2:2; Philippians 3:15; 2 Corinthians 13:9, we begin to live out the teachings of the Bible (doers of the word) – James 1:21,22, and develop expertise in understanding and applying righteous principles (become skilful in the word of righteousness) – Hebrews 5:13,14. This leads us to live in obedience to righteousness – Romans 6:16,17 – and strive for the perfection exemplified by our heavenly Father – Matthew 5:48.

The Futility of Law in Achieving Righteousness

Remember that there isn’t a single law that can help you achieve righteousness. Only God can be the source of righteousness, and it is obtained by faith. Your assumption that keeping the law will make you holy will only result in you being cast away.

Freedom from Condemnation and the Law

Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin – Romans 4:7-9. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace – Galatians 5:4.

Sin is only acknowledged when there is a set law in place – Romans 7. However, the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus sets us free from the law of sin and death, and when we are guided by the Spirit, we are not under the obligation of the law – Galatians 5:18; Romans 8:2. Hence, we are unable to assert that we sin, since sin no longer holds power over us as a result of the abolishment of the law. Additionally, it is important to note that God condemned sin in the flesh of His Son, Jesus – Romans 8:3.

Wrath and Transgression

The law worketh wrath (For God hath not appointed us to wrath – 1 Thessalonians 5:9): for where no law is, THERE IS NO TRANSGRESSION – Romans 4:15. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace – Romans 6:14. If so, I don’t understand why preachers emphasize condemning believers for their sins (carnal disposition) instead of reminding them of their susceptibility (works of the flesh, which everyone is inclined towards) and the grace they receive to overcome it.

Unity in the Body of Christ

When a believer is “in Christ” (gets baptized into one body by one Spirit – 1 Corinthians 12:13) he or she ceases to be an independent entity and will no longer be regarded as such; they are now an integral part of the unified body.

Brotherly Love and Compassion

Condemning a single part equates to condemning the whole body, which not only discredits Christ’s advocacy but also creates a division in the body, impeding its growth – 1 Corinthians 1:10/3:3/11:18.

Avoiding Judgment and Condemnation

Are we not one bread and members of the same body? Whether one member suffers, all the members suffer with it, or one member is honoured, all the members rejoice with it – 1 Corinthians 12:26. This represents the profound interconnectedness present within the structure of this living organism, called Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12.

Freedom in Christ

He who loveth God love his brother also – 1 John 4:20,21. Love does no evil, nor does it take pleasure in a brother’s misfortune. Godliness, brotherly kindness, and love go hand in hand – 2 Peter 1:7.

Discerning Legalism and False Doctrines

We all must strive towards putting off the corrupt self to partake of the divine nature – Ephesians 4:22; 2 Peter 1:4, which is crucial to the effectual working of this body – Ephesians 4:16. No one is exempt from it.

Spiritual Maturity and Growth

Do Not Speak Evil of One Another

Do not speak evil one of another, brethren. He that speaks evil of his brother, and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law, and judges the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who can save and destroy: who art thou that judges another? – James 4:11,12

Honouring All Men

Honour all men. Love the brotherhood – 1 Peter 2:17.

Rejoicing in Humility

Let the brother of low degree (humiliated, in circumstances or disposition) rejoice in that he is exalted – James 1:9.

Admonishing as a Brother

Count him not as an enemy but admonish him as a brother – 2 Thessalonians 3:15.

Despising the Brethren

He therefore that despises the brethren, despises not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit – 1 Thessalonians 4:8.

Forgiving One Another

We ought to forbear one another, and forgive one another, even as Christ forgave us – Colossians 3:13. Before you point fingers at others, remember that you are ultimately dependent on the mercy of God.

And if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted – Galatians 6:1. Know that for his name’s sake, we are forgiven – 1 John 2:12; we all appropriate the blood of Christ to cleanse us regularly, don’t we? 1 John 1:7,9 Do we not know who accuses the brethren? Revelation 12:10

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye – Colossians 3:12,13.

Bearing One Another’s Burdens

Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ – Galatians 6:2.

Being Gentle and Instructive

We (who are spiritual – 1 Corinthians 2:15; Galatians 6:1) must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves (in the spirit of meekness – Galatians 6:1); if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will – 2 Timothy 2:24-26.

Freedom from the Law through Christ

When we criticize (discriminate), we nullify the mediating roles of both the Holy Spirit and Christ. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ – Romans 7:4. Being then MADE FREE FROM SIN, ye became the servants of righteousness – Romans 6:18.

I am not saying that we cannot rebuke a person when the Holy Ghost convict sin. Rebukes are a legitimate part of God’s work, but when they emerge from self-conceitedness and Pharisaic attitude, that’s when it becomes incongruous. I am simply trying to convey that the sins represented here are no longer seen as breaking the law, but as the works of the flesh, which is our inherent sinful nature.

For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death (we are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit – Romans 8:9). But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter – Romans 7:5,6.

We needed to be freed from the law not because it was evil—Romans 7:12–16 says that the law is spiritual, holy, and the commandments are good, just, and holy—but rather because we are carnal and the law wraths against such people – Romans 4:15.

Standing Fast in Liberty

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage – Galatians 5:1.

The Jewish members of the early church struggled to transition from their law-cantered way of life to the new life in Christ. They were so familiar with the Torah that it became ingrained in them. Some attempted to reintroduce or merge the laws of the old covenant into the body of Christ, which posed a threat to the growing Church. This is where the Apostle Paul intervened.

Some Christian denominations are trying to make a similar move. They aim to bring back or incorporate the old covenant laws into the Christian community, putting new believers at risk of losing the freedom found in Christ. Their commandments and regulations now serve as the criteria for accepting or excluding a believer. We are tolerated if we share their beliefs; nevertheless, those who do not are persecuted and condemned. If we conform, we are accepted; if not, we are ostracized and condemned.

Warning Against False Humility

Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increases with the increase of God. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using; after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body, not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh? – Colossians 2:18-23

Challenges to Unity

Some Christians believe that wearing any type of jewellery, or colourful clothing, using expensive items, or indulging in eating and drinking is sinful and will harm their relationship with Christ. It is unfortunate how uninformed and misguided they are. Their baleful reaction to someone embracing such things in life can be quite intense. You can only imagine the level of hatred they may muster up when they witness someone accepting such things in life.

Avoiding Legalism

For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; That ye ABSTAIN FROM meats offered to idols, and from blood, and things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well – Acts 15:28-29.

Assurance in Christ

Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifies – Romans 8:33. Who is he that condemns? Romans 8:34 Can anything separate us from the love of Christ? – Romans 8:35. Didn’t Christ die while we were yet sinners? Are we so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Galatians 3:3

Maintaining Spiritual Focus

You are effectively snatching fellow believers from the grace of God and returning them to a state of bondage when you try to scrutinize human weaknesses and judge them based on their frailties, or dispositions. When the Holy Ghost is warning us: Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility – Colossians 2:18- why are we then subject to ordinances, like “touch not; taste not; handle not; which are nothing but the commandments and doctrines of men; which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh – Colossians 2:21-23. With the mind/spirit I serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin – Romans 7:25.

Striving for Spiritual Growth

Regardless of whether we agree with it or not, the truth is that I am committed to serving the law of God with my mind/spirit, but I am also subject to the law of sin with my flesh (if we say that we have no unrighteousness, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us – 1 John 1:8). If there is sin in us, we are destined to serve it in some way; we are obligated to address it in some way. That is why, in His benevolence, God has assigned an advocate to intercede/ plead on our behalf – Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:27,34; 1 John 2:1. What is the purpose of Christ continuing forever and having an unchangeable priesthood if not? Hebrews 7:24,25

Struggle Between Flesh and Spirit

I wouldn’t say that both agree with each other; in fact, they are in opposition – Galatians 5:17, which is why a believer is constantly in a state of struggle. And as long as we are cocooned in an earthly tabernacle and have to deal with its dominion of corruption, we cannot pretend that it does not exist, nor can we starve it in any manner, until the Lord transforms our vileness to match His body – Philippians 3:21. It takes time and spiritual maturity to bring the flesh into subjection. To control our bodies, we must mature in the spirit and be led by God’s Spirit. If we remain spiritually immature, we are still focused on worldly desires. The heir, as long as he is a child, differs nothing from a servant – Galatians 4:1; and the servant abides not in the house forever: but the Son abides ever – John 8:35.

The Path to Spiritual Maturity

We can only bring our bodies under control if we mature according to the spirit and allow ourselves to be guided by the Spirit of God. Otherwise, to whom we yield ourselves, servants to obey, his servants we are to whom we obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness – Romans 6:16.

Maturing in Spirit

The power of a new believer in Christ is derived solely from the strength that is already accessible to them, which is their human nature. They are full of emotional energy during this time. Their spiritual maturity is still developing. Certainly, their soul was rejuvenated and their spirit was revived by the Holy Ghost, but there is still a considerable journey ahead to achieve full maturity. Such a one lacks spiritual strength (he/she is unskilful in the word of righteousness – Hebrews 5:13,14), but his or her flesh is strong, and it is only the available strength that we choose to rely on. Only when the spirit becomes stronger can the flesh be weakened.

Prayer for Strength

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16.

Overcoming Worldly Desires

How else are we going to subject our bodies? If we continue to remain immature in our spirit like the church in Corinth – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, we will still be focused on worldly desires and embrace earthly wisdom, driven by our senses, and influenced by the devil. This leads to discord, confusion, and the presence of every kind of evil – James 3:9-18.

Holiness Through Connection to God

As a result, our flaws or dispositions do not serve as criteria for evaluating holiness. God attributes holiness. It must originate from God and not from simply following a rule. We become holy because the source to which we are connected is holy; we become holy because His seed remains in us – 1 John 3:9; Ephesians 4:24. As we stay connected to Christ, we gradually become more like him in all aspects through the Spirit. The distinction between New Testament believers and the old is that they adhered to the law and failed – Hebrews 7:18,19/12:20; Romans 8:3; 1 Corinthians 10:3,4; John 6:48-50, while we now follow Christ and are transformed into his likeness, from one degree of glory to another, by the Spirit of the Lord – 2 Corinthians 3:18.

Value of Spiritual Criteria Over Fleshly Judgment

Churches have even elevated “the weakness of the flesh” to the level of divine prohibitions, employing them to pass judgment and discriminate against believers. However, the Holy Ghost reminds us that these things hold no true value, as they are not the criteria by which a believer is justified before God.

Acknowledging Trials in Life

Jesus declared, “In this world, you will have troubles” – John 16:33. Difficulties can manifest in various ways such as Family conflicts, broken families, divorces, unruly kids, illness, promiscuity, gluttony, mishaps, adultery, fornication, financial crises, covetousness, disasters, epidemics, premature deaths, and other situations can all be sources of trouble. No one can confidently claim immunity from such trials. It would be foolish to boast about being unaffected. A fool would just claim to be immune to it. Without the grace of God protecting us, no one can navigate this world without being affected in some way.

Equality in God’s Eyes

While some people have succumbed to their depravity (moral corruption), others, such as the modern-day Sadducees and Pharisees, can conceal their depravity, project an image of being above it, and win the favour of the public. However, in God’s eyes, we are all the same; our righteousness is like soiled clothes – Isaiah 64:6. You cannot convince God that your frail brother is unholy and you are a saint. If God were to examine our hearts, the person who appears to be righteous before others would fall shorter than the one who seems to be weak in the eyes of others.

Warning Against Hypocrisy

God abhors hypocrisy, as He has cautioned believers about it in Matthew 16:6. He likened hypocrisy to leaven – Luke 12:1, warning that if left unchecked, it can contaminate our entire being – Galatians 5:9.

Spiritual Standards of Behaviour

Who among men can claim they have never lusted in their hearts? Is there anyone among humanity who can honestly claim that they have never felt lust in their hearts? According to God, if you have lusted even once, you have committed adultery in your heart. Similarly, if you have harboured hatred even once, you have committed murder in the eyes of God. And if you have coveted or succumbed to any unrighteous act even once, you have committed idolatry. These principles are outlined in Matthew 5:28, 1 John 3:15, and Colossians 3:5.

Warning Against Gluttony and Hypocrisy

If you have a passion for food and indulge in eating excessively, it may indicate an idolatrous heart. I am aware of many preachers who criticize believers in other areas, yet they struggle with overeating (gluttonous), holding grudges against fellow believers, and loving Mammon. How do you make sense of that?

The Law of Christ and Sinful Thoughts

“When the law condemns someone for breaking a command, the law of Christ declares that even the moment a person’s heart entertains sinful thoughts, it is considered as a sin. Jesus ensured that no one could be considered righteous by their actions in front of God.”

None Righteous, No, Not One

As it is written, there is none righteous, no, not one – Romans 3:10.

The Pharisee and the Publican Parable

He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her – John 8:7.

Let’s understand the significance of the parable of Jesus, which reinforces the point I am presenting here.

Jesus spoke this parable unto certain who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and DESPISED OTHERS:

Two men went up into the temple to pray: the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

I tell you; this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalts himself shall be abased; he that humbles himself shall be exalted – Luke 18:9-14.

Misconceptions in Church Judgment

Once, I remember a situation where I visited a megachurch pastor seeking guidance and support. Upon learning about a mistake, I had made in my life that they considered serious, the young pastor told me that I could stay with them for a while but was not allowed to take part in the Lord’s supper or serve others in matters related to the Lord.

I learned that Christ died for sinners, but now I see that some people believe Christ only belongs to those who are righteous and that the Lord detests anyone who falters in life; that the Lord would disapprove if someone made a mistake in life. That’s what their approach conveyed to me. It seems like you can only approach the throne of grace if your life is going well like theirs. How do they understand the passage “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need”? Hebrews 4:16 And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous – 1 John 2:1.

I comprehended the message they were trying to convey. They were implying that my past actions had tainted me and made me unworthy of the Lord. It was clear that they saw themselves as holier than me, believing themselves to be faultless men chosen and anointed by the Lord. I can’t fathom the extent of their misconceptions and their ignorance of the principles of the New Testament life.

Jesus stated that those who are healthy do not require a physician, but those who are sick do – Luke 5:31 However, preachers claim that only the righteous can approach the Lord. What a contradiction!

Self-Deception and Spiritual Maturity

For if a man thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself – Galatians 6:3.

Living in Sanctification and Honour

Every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour – 1 Thessalonians 4:4.

Called Unto Holiness

God hath not called us unto uncleanness but unto holiness – 1 Thessalonians 4:7.

Understanding Spiritual Growth

This is a set of instructions that communicates the level of maturity that God wants us to reach, rather than just a set of rules to read and instantly be changed by.

As a new believer, it’s normal to behave childishly, but as you mature in faith or grow spiritually, you put away childish ways. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, growth leads to leaving sinful behaviours behind. For a babe in Christ is unskilful in the word of righteousness – Hebrews 5:13,14; 1 Corinthians 3:1-3.

The Refining Process

Looking back, I can see how foolishly I lived in the past, indulging in corruption even though I knew it was wrong. Sin had a grip on me until the Holy Spirit guided me through a refining process and sanctified me. The Bible teaches that suffering in the flesh leads to freedom from sin – 1 Peter 4:1. Our earthly parents verily for a few days chastened us after their pleasure; but God for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterwards (if we endure), it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby – Hebrews 12:5-11.

Compassion and Understanding

It’s concerning to think about how this might anger the Lord and how they will have to answer to Him eventually. Why do they fail to comprehend the compassion of Jesus, and when they claim to have the mindset of Christ, they display the mindset of the devil?

Jesus said, “Allow the little children (Paidion – figuratively, an immature Christian), and don’t forbid them to come to me: for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these” – Matthew 19:14. The Lord’s work involves healing those with broken hearts and tending to their wounds – Psalms 147:3; Luke 4:18. The Lord has a grievance against the leaders of the flock. The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them – Ezekiel 34:4.

The Transformative Power of the Word

The word of God reveals to us the qualities our spirits should exhibit. It reminds us of the nature we should partake of, corresponding to the word of God. It is not just a list of rules, but a guide that directs us towards the kind of people we should strive to be. It is through aligning with the nature of God that we come to embody the principles of the word of God.

If a woman or man is not showing the nature portrayed in the Scriptures, it is not a sign of disobedience to the law but spiritual immaturity. One hasn’t grown according to the spirit. Humility or any other virtues are not the effect of following a precept but the fruit of the Spirit, which we yield when become doers of the word of God. We obey because we are. What we are within or what we ought to be is what the word reveals. The word of God shows us the real us and transforms us to its virtue.

If a person does not exhibit the nature portrayed in the Scriptures, it is a sign of spiritual immaturity, not disobedience to the law. Humility and other virtues are not the result of following a rule, but of yielding to the Spirit and becoming doers of the word of God. We obey because of who we are. The word of God reveals our true selves and transforms us to reflect its virtues.

If a woman or man does not exhibit the character depicted in the Scriptures, it is not an indication of disobedience to the law but rather a sign of spiritual immaturity. One has not matured according to the spirit. Humility or any other virtues are not the result of following a rule but the outcome of the Spirit, which we demonstrate when we become practitioners of the word of God. We obey because of who we are according to the spirit. The Word reveals what we are within or what we are meant to be. The word of God reveals our true selves and changes us to reflect its virtues. We receive life, freedom, and authority through the knowledge breathed into us by the Spirit of God, which reveals our true identity and position.

The Example of Christ

Jesus KNOWING (became aware – as he grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him – Luke 2:40) that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God, and went to God; He rises from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself – John 13:3,4. As we mature in the spirit, the Spirit of God imparts knowledge to us through the word of God, enlightening our minds to understand. Christ left us an example, that we should follow his steps – 1 Peter 2:21; and as he is, so are we in this world – 1 John 4:17.

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple – Psalm 119:130.

Holiness and Authority

Simply being adept at following some of the New Testament commands doesn’t elevate a pastor or believer above others in terms of holiness; nor does obtaining a college degree automatically place you at the pinnacle of authority (it is the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered – Colossians 2:19 – if the root be holy, so are the branches – Romans 11:16 – we partake of the divine nature and His holiness by abiding in Christ. His word and the Spirit are what cleanse us). For who is greater, one who sits at the table, or one who serves? Isn’t it he who sits at the table? – Luke 22:27.

The Reality of Spiritual Position

Regardless of your spiritual position, can you honestly say that your flesh has any goodness? How dare many of us then bring accusations against the brethren? Whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord – 2 Peter 2:11. But you believe that just because you have a degree and serve in the Church, you are immune to judging God’s elect?

The Ministry of Equipping and Perfecting

Certainly, as we grow in spiritual maturity, God may appoint some to judge those within the faith community in order to equip and perfect the believers. This is why the ministry of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers is provided – Ephesians 4:11. We are given authority to address disobedience once our own obedience is fulfilled – 2 Corinthians 10:6. I am not opposed to this, but speaking ill of others from a self-righteous attitude is what leads to evil.

Walking in the Spirit and Fulfilling the Law

By following the Spirit, we fulfil the righteousness of the law within us – Romans 8:4; it’s as simple as that. How do we address our flesh’s tendency to engage in sin and unrighteous works? The answer is in the holy Scriptures. According to 1 John 1:7, if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin. It is essentially an automated process. God expects us to move and live in the Spirit, appropriating the merits of Christ Jesus.

Maturing in the Spirit

Walking as he is in the light can involve labouring in the Spirit, praying in the Holy Ghost, actively following the word of God, doing his will, living in the Spirit, and walking in love, among other things. Achieving this state requires a level of spiritual maturity. The young lamb can only rely on the scent of its mother sheep because its vision is not fully developed, while the adult sheep recognizes the voice of its shepherd and obediently follows him. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me – John 10:27.

Understanding “They Cannot Sin”

The statement “They cannot sin” does not imply that a born-again person would never sin. It does not mean that in that sense. Rather, it means that since the seed of God remains in them, they are rooted in the love of God, in which all the law is fulfilled – as stated in Galatians 5:14 and Romans 13:8-10.

The Nature of Sin and Law

There can be no sin if there is no law. Sin is the transgression of the law – 1 John 3:4; and where no law is, there is no transgression – Romans 4:15. Sin became a sin with the bringing of the law – Romans 5:13/7:5,7,9. If no law is enacted, does a court have the authority to condemn anyone? No, a person can only be deemed a transgressor based on a law that has been passed. If not, what offence has he or she committed? How would you convict someone of a crime if you are unable to identify the specific legislation that they broke? A court cannot exist without legislation being enacted. It is known as “the court of law” for this reason.

Understanding Righteousness

Similarly, when you read in the gospels a feature being conferred to few that says, “They both were righteous” Luke 1:6 was not discussing their inner disposition, but rather their reaction to the set of laws to which they are subject. Those who obeyed the law of Moses were considered righteous.

Righteousness Through Regeneration

A person who upholds or obeys God’s law is said to be righteous. However, members of the body of Christ are not made righteous by observing the law, but rather by regeneration, as they receive the Spirit of Sonship, which is created after God in righteousness and true holiness – 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 10:10; Ephesians 4:24. At regeneration we awake to righteousness – 1 Corinthians 1:30/15:34. A person receives a new identity at the new birth; they are now a different creature – 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15—more specifically, they are the righteousness of God. What sets them apart is the incorruptible seed that they contain. If the root is holy, so are the branches – Romans 11:16.

The Impact of Sin

Is sin still a significant force to be considered? If God had condemned sin in the flesh of Jesus and declared that it should not have dominion over those born of God to the extent that the word of God states that we cannot sin, then does sin still hold any value or power as we often emphasise or amplify it?

“The Law, Grace, and Christian Identity”

The Nullification of Sin’s Power

If the law revealed sin, and the power of sin is the law, does sin still have any worth, or can it gloat over us now that the law has been repealed; having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances? – Ephesians 2:15; Hebrews 7:18,19; Galatians 5:18 The law made sin apparent and gave strength to sin – 1 Corinthians 15:56; then by annulling the law, sin no longer holds merit or can crow over us. Thereby, our covenant with death and our agreement with hell got disannulled – Isaiah 28:18; 1 Corinthians 15:55.

The New Covenant and Grace

Hadn’t God cancelled the old covenant because he found it to be faulty? He built a new covenant based on better promises – Hebrews 8:6-10. The law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound – Romans 5:20; which grace, came by Jesus Christ – John 1:17. We are become dead to the law by the body of Christ – Romans 7:4. And sin is not imputed when there is no law – Romans 5:13.

The Purpose of the Law

The law was merely a supplement—it was added in response to violations – Galatians 3:19; The law was introduced as a schoolmaster to bring them to Christ – Galatians 3:24,25; the law was not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men stealers, for liars, for perjured persons – 1 Timothy 1:9,10; and the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression – Romans 4:15.

The Superiority of the Promise

However, the covenant that God established with Abraham existed before the law was even introduced, and it was validated before God in Christ. As a result, even though the law was created 430 years later, it cannot invalidate and render the promise of no effect – Galatians 3:17.

The New Way of Righteousness

Now how are the unrighteous deeds being considered? It has been reduced to mere “works of the flesh” and the righteous deeds as the fruit of the Spirit. The law is incapable of imparting God’s righteousness, so it was stripped of its power, so to speak. Now a new and living way, hath been consecrated for us – Hebrews 10:20; by which we can bring forth fruit unto God – Romans 7:4. By following this path, we not only receive the righteousness of God credited to us, but we also fulfil the righteousness of the law within ourselves – Romans 4:6,11-24/ 8:4. Now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested – Romans 3:21. Even as David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputes righteousness; to whom the Lord will not impute sin – Romans 4:6,8. Hasn’t another law been implemented? Yes, the law of the life-giving Spirit in Jesus Christ. It is a law of the heart that the Holy Spirit has inscribed – Hebrews 10:16. By one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified – Hebrews 10:14; the spirits of just men made perfect – Hebrews 12:23.

The Practical Outworking of Salvation”

The Battle Against Fleshly Lusts

Is it possible for us to break and overcome that law of the heart? Indeed, we certainly could, if we don’t refrain from giving in to our sensual cravings (fleshly lusts) that war against our souls – 1 Peter 2:11; which war against the law of our minds, to bring us into captivity again – Romans 7:23. If we deviate from the path and follow the desires of the flesh, we will be considered to have sinned against Christ –1 Corinthians 8:12. It’s a violation that affects the entire body.

Living Beyond the Flesh

In the New Testament, when you encounter the phrase “sin not” as found in 1 John 2:1, it does not simply mean to avoid breaking the law, but rather to refrain from living according to fleshly lusts. For if we live after the flesh, we shall die – Romans 8:13. “Abstain, “Mortify” “Subjugate” “Flee” “Put Off” “Lay Aside” “Lay Apart” “Cleanse Ourselves” are the terms coined in the New Testament in dealing with unrighteousness – Acts 15:20,28,29; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 1 Peter 2:11; Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:5,8,9; 1 Corinthians 6:18/ 9:27; Ephesians 4:22; Hebrews 12:1; 1 Timothy 6:11; James 1:21; 2 Corinthians 7:1 – KJV.

Guarding the Heart

For this reason, before partaking in the Lord’s Supper, we are instructed to think about recognising the body of Christ into which we are infused – 1 Corinthians 11:27-32. By one Spirit are we all baptized into one body – 1 Corinthians 12:13. For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread – 1 Corinthians 10:17. “Since life’s challenges stem from the heart – Mark 7:20-23; Luke 6:45, it is crucial to protect it with great care – Proverbs 4:23.” You risk corrupting yourself if you choose to ignore it or lower your guard – Mark 7:20-23; Hebrews 12:15; James 3.

Living in Righteousness

If we ignore it, we could bring condemnation upon us in the form of infirmities, sickness and even death – 1 Corinthians 11:27-30. Sin is no longer just breaking the law, but rather the result of human nature. We need to control or counter it by walking in the Spirit and partaking in divine nature and holiness; Righteousness is no longer achieved by obeying the law; instead, we are made righteous through the process of regeneration. The presence of the incorruptible seed within us leads us to live a holy life –1 John 3:9; 1Peter 1:23. We are begotten into an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled – 1 Peter 1:4; God hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light – Colossians 1:12; Ephesians 1:18.

Unity and Responsibility in the Body

Committing sins (or carnal living) after accepting Christ is viewed as a transgression against Him, as we are no longer seen as separate individuals but as integral parts of the body of Christ – 1Corinthians 12:12. The whole body is now fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies; holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together – Ephesians 4:16; Colossians 2:19; ye are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit – Ephesians 2:22; fitly framed together as a holy temple in the Lord – Ephesians 2:21. If we harbour hatred towards our fellow believers, even though it may not result in physical harm, it is still equivalent to killing them in the eyes of God. It shows that we have not truly embraced the life of Christ and are merely pretending to be part of the Christian community – 1 John 2:9,11/ 3:15/4:20. Jesus said, for every tree is known by his fruit – Luke 6:44.

Sinning within this living organism (the ecclesia of God) is a sin against the entire body. When one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or when one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it – 1 Corinthians 12:26; Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular – 1 Corinthians 12:27. It is crucial to strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace, as stated in Ephesians 4:3. This is because there is only one body and one Spirit, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:4. Additionally, sinning against fellow believers is considered as sinning against Christ, according to 1 Corinthians 8:12. The efficient functioning of each part is anticipated – Ephesians 4:16, and this can only be accomplished by remaining connected to the vine, which is Christ, and allowing His word to dwell in us abundantly with all wisdom – John 15:5; Colossians 3:16; James 1:21,22. Perfecting of the saints is what the Holy Ghost does to make it grow unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ – Ephesians 4:12,13; Philippians 3:15; James 1:4; Hebrews 6:1; 2 Corinthians 13:9; Matthew 5:48 – KJV

What exactly does a law represent? Or What does a law signify?

The Authority of the Law

It has the authority to either bestow life or death. No one is exempt, yet everyone within its jurisdiction must follow the law. Now we’re talking about a legislation that affects the members of our body – Romans 7:23. Unlike the law of the Spirit of Life, which empowers you to work righteousness and leads to eternal life, the other one coerces you into sinful passions and unrighteousness, resulting in death. “Obedience to life or sin to death”. The outcome is determined by whom we submit ourselves as servants – Romans 6:16.

Works of Righteousness and the Spirit

Works of Righteousness are not simply good behaviour, but rather a state of being. If it were merely good traits, then that would imply that the unregenerate, who receive common grace, are also righteous, but this is not the case. Righteousness comes only from being born of God. It is the presence of the spirit of God within a person that makes them righteous – 1 Corinthians 2:12. No one can be justified by their actions or deeds of the flesh.

The Power of Sin and Obedience

“It is a power that one must constantly struggle against, especially if it resides in our body, making the struggle all the more difficult” – Romans 7:3 Non-believers are bound by sin (enslaved to sin); therefore, they do not resist it but instead take pleasure in it; whereas believers are repulsed by it and must confront it as its purpose is to bring them back into the bondage of sin – Romans 7:23. The righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds – 2 Peter 2:8.

The positive aspect is that Jesus, understanding the weakness of humanity, requested from the Father, and bestowed upon us His eternal Spirit to dwell within us. Therefore, a believer is inhabited by the Spirit of God and has the Spirit of Sonship, enabling us to call out to God as our loving Father. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift a standard against him to give us victory – Isaiah 59:19. If we walk in the Spirit, we shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh – Galatians 5:16.

The Battle Within

In every believer, there are two opposing laws at work. The flesh desires against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh. One law supports the desires of the flesh, while the other supports the Spirit. One seeks to harm you, while the other seeks to save you.

The Influence of the Heart

Jesus taught that the streams flow from within the heart; and that what comes out of the heart is what truly matters. Whatever we labour and maintain within the heart is what will ultimately flow out from our hearts. “The tongue has the power to bring both death and life” – Proverbs 18:21. Can the tongue speak without the influence of the heart? The words spoken by the mouth reflect the content of the heart or the character and wisdom of the spirit within a person. A change of heart or a spiritual transformation is the only way to set things on the right path. If the heart is filled with darkness, it will affect the entire being, and the words spoken will reflect that darkness. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks – Luke 6:45. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting – Galatians 6:7,8.

Transformation Through the Heart

Do you understand the importance of Jesus’s statement “You must be born again”? In saying this, Jesus was implying that the only way for a person to truly change their ways is by making their heart right, and this can only be achieved through God’s intervention. The influence of the law or any other external factor can only go so far, but true transformation comes from the touch of the divine on the heart.

The Consequence of Ignoring the Heart

We are advised to guard our hearts diligently because it is the source of our life. This caution is necessary due to the dual nature that a person experiences after being born again. The outcome is determined by what we sow inside, and plant within. The Sower must sow the Word to bring its bounty – Mark 4:14; to him that sow’s righteousness shall be a sure reward – Proverbs 11:18,19. Do men gather grapes of thorns or figs of thistles? Even so, every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit – Matthew 7:16-18. Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit – Matthew 12:33.

I went by the field of the slothful (one who refused to sow the word of God into his spirit), and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down; and bring no fruit to perfection – Proverbs 24:30,3; Mark 4:7,18,19.

The Two Streams

See why the Holy Ghost forbids us from pursuing fleshly lusts? Since it battles the soul – 1 Peter 2:11. The stream that emerges from within gets murkier the longer you allow it to run wild. On the other hand, rivers of living water will gradually but surely start to emanate from within us if we mortify the works of the flesh (put to death the actions driven by worldly desires, the sinful passions) and live by the Spirit, or the law of the Spirit of life (the principles that Christ hath set forth).

Cultivating Spiritual Growth

Fruit cannot be expected to develop while the plant is still tender and young. To watch it develop into a high-yielding fruit-bearing plant, we must give it the necessary conditions and nourishment. Before it can produce much fruit, it needs to undergo some pruning and purging when the time is right – John 15:2. Because this plant underwent grafting, in contrast to other plants – Romans 11:17,24, it will go wild if left unchecked; care must be taken to stop the old shoots from emerging.

Guarding Against Spiritual Corruption

Are old shoots a representation of the wild nature? Isn’t it written in the Bible to “Put off” the corrupt old man? Doesn’t the Bible tell us to “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit”? Isn’t it also written to “abstain from fleshly lusts”? And doesn’t the Bible instruct us to put away our wicked traits? Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:8; 2 Corinthians 7:1 These are the superfluous shoots that have the potential to proliferate and destroy the plant. Let’s see what the master gardener says. Jesus said, if we let the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, pleasures of this life and the lusts of other things enter in or infiltrate our hearts, it chokes the word we received in the heart, and makes us unfruitful – Mark 4:19; Luke 8:14.

Conclusion

Christianity is not merely about adhering to a set of rules but about a dynamic relationship with God through Christ. This relationship transforms individuals from within, enabling them to live out their faith authentically and impactfully. It calls for an understanding of God’s grace, continuous spiritual growth, and an active commitment to love as Christ loved.