Christian Questions Bible Podcast

At the beginning of his second letter, the Apostle Peter reminded us that God, in His power and love, has graciously given us everything we need to be faithful to the calling of discipleship. This walk of sacrifice is supported by the overwhelming gift of God’s precious and magnificent promises. Peter then tells us that because we have such privilege and grace before us to build on our faith. He tells us that as a result of having this gift of faith, it should help us fully develop moral excellence. That moral excellence should in turn drive us towards spiritual knowledge, which feeds our ability to have self-control. Our outward manifestation of self-control should trigger powerful perseverance which in turn nourishes a godly and reverent character. This godly character produces an all-encompassing brotherly kindness which in turn develops the kind of selfless love that our Lord Jesus and our heavenly Father both have. Useless or unfruitful When these qualities are present and increasing, they keep us from becoming “useless or unfruitful” in our knowledge of Christ, but when they are absent, we become spiritually short‑sighted, forgetting the cleansing and new life Jesus provided. Complacency is a danger, and we as believers can drift into blindness or relapse into old habits when we stop climbing the ladder. Peter then re‑energizes us with a call to diligence—bookending the entire process with earnest effort in verses 5 and 10. This diligence is not frantic activity but a sincere, steady commitment to practicing these virtues so that we can keep moving forward even when we stumble. Through vivid examples, warnings and encouragements, the episode emphasizes that spiritual growth is intentional, not automatic, and that God’s providence works with our effort to shape a character that reflects Christ. Ultimately, Peter assures us that if we continue developing these qualities, we will walk securely, avoid spiritual collapse and receive an abundant entrance into the eternal kingdom. Key Takeaways Peter’s “virtue ladder” outlines a clear, ordered path for Christian growth. These qualities must be increasing to keep us from becoming spiritually unfruitful. Forgetting our cleansing leads to spiritual blindness and drift. Peter uses diligence as bookends (verses 5 and 10) to show that growth requires intentional effort. Practicing these virtues helps us recover quickly when we stumble. God’s promises supply the power; our diligence supplies the response.

We have arrived! This episode explores the final and highest rung of the Apostle Peter’s “virtue ladder”- agape, the selfless, God‑shaped love that defines the true purpose of Christian character. We walk through how each previous rung—faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self‑control, perseverance, godliness and brotherly kindness—builds the capacity to reach this culminating form of love. While Strong’s Concordance’s Greek definition of agape may sound simple or even underwhelming, Scripture masterfully fills the word with depth, weight and divine intention. This eight and final rung powerfully reveals the height what our Christian characters aspire to! The love of God Himself Agape is the love God demonstrates in giving His only begotten son. It is the love Jesus lived by laying down his life, and the love the apostles taught as the unmistakable evidence of spiritual maturity. This love is “disinterested” in the classical sense—free from selfish motive, seeking no advantage and offered even when it is not reciprocated. It is critical to remember that while this kind of love grows out of brotherly kindness, it surpasses it by embracing even the hardest expressions of love: loving enemies, blessing those who persecute us and caring for those we don’t naturally like. A powerful illustration of this is the story of Maximilian Kolbe, who voluntarily took another man’s place in a starvation bunker at Auschwitz—an act that embodied Christlike, sacrificial agape. The first few verses of 1 Corinthians 13, show us how this kind of love must shape what we as Christians say, know and do; without it, eloquence becomes noise, knowledge becomes pride, and even great acts of sacrifice lose their spiritual value. Finally, we observe how the Scriptures remind us that perfect love casts out fear, and that agape matures in us as we continually practice the earlier virtues. When brotherly love is strong and relationships are aligned with God’s will, agape becomes the defining purpose of a disciple’s life, shining as the highest expression of Christlikeness. Key Takeaways Agape is the highest rung of Christian character, built on the foundation of the previous seven virtues. Strong’s definition is insufficient—Scripture reveals agape as God’s own selfless, sacrificial love. Jesus models agape through his willingness to lay down his life. Agape includes loving enemies and those we don’t naturally like. Without agape, words, knowledge and actions lose spiritual value (1 Corinthians 13). Perfect love casts out fear, revealing maturity and alignment with God’s purpose.

The blueprint for Christian character development the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter 1 lays out for us a “ladder” that we as disciples of Christ are to climb. Each rung of this ladder is vital to our ability to be able to progress up to the next rung. As we have focused on one rung of this ladder at a time in this extended series, we have worked on making the connections between our foundation and how each step makes us more like Jesus. Now comes the seventh rung, and this one really begins to reveal what a truly developed Christian character should look like. The seventh rung is brotherly kindness—philadelphia in Greek and also translated as “brotherly love.” We must realize that faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self‑control, perseverance and godliness form the necessary foundation for this deeply relational virtue. In ancient Greek, this kind of love referred to the instinctive loyalty shared by blood relatives—a devotion that is both expected and not optional. Peter places this rung after godliness because only a character shaped by reverence for God can sustain the sacrificial, loyal, family‑level commitment required to love fellow believers as true siblings. Lots of love To broaden our understanding, it is helpful to compare three Greek categories of love: natural family affection, brotherly love and philanthropia—a benevolent love for all humanity. Brotherly kindness sits at the center of these circles, bridging instinctive affection and universal goodwill. Jesus himself established this family identity when he taught his disciples to pray, “Our Father…,” making all disciples brothers and sisters. Questions to ask ourselves Practical self‑examination is needed to see how well we are living this brotherly kindness: Do we protect others’ reputations? Do we step in quietly when someone is overwhelmed? Do we welcome those who sit alone? Brotherly love is not convenient. It is costly, time‑consuming and emotionally demanding. Ultimately, brotherly kindness is the training ground for the final rung—agape love. If Christians can’t love the family of faith with loyalty and tenderness, they cannot hope to love the world with Christlike sacrifice. Key Takeaways Brotherly kindness is loyal, family‑level devotion rooted in godliness. It bridges natural affection and universal benevolence. Jesus established Christians as a true spiritual family. Brotherly love requires patience, protection, presence and emotional investment. It is inconvenient but essential for mature Christian character. Practicing philadelphia prepares us for agape—the highest form of Christlike love.

The blueprint for Christian character development the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. With this blueprint, Peter lays out for us a ladder of Christian character development. As we examine it, we find that each rung of this ladder is vital to our success in climbing up onto the next rung. In the last five parts of this series, we have focused on one rung of this ladder at a time and worked on making the connections between what our foundation is and how each step makes us more like Jesus. Now comes the sixth step, and this one really begins to shape what our outward Christian character should look like! In this episode, we continue our Christian Character Series by examining the sixth rung of Peter’s “virtue ladder” in 2 Peter 1:5‑7: godliness. Godliness is not “looking religious,” but a whole‑life orientation toward God, expressed through reverence, devotion, humility and a character that consistently seeks God’s will. It is the “allegiance of our character,” the natural outgrowth of perseverance and self‑control working together. Fake godliness Godliness is not something humans possess naturally; it must be developed intentionally through discipline, sound doctrine and a continual turning away from worldly distractions (1 Timothy 4:6‑8). True godliness grows from the inside out and can’t be faked, even though many in the “last days” may display only an appearance of it (2 Timothy 3:1‑5). Real godliness is rooted in Christ’s teachings, not tradition, and must never be used as a means of earthly gain (1 Timothy 6:3‑10). Instead, godliness produces contentment, freeing believers from the traps of wealth, status and self‑promotion. Misplaced priorities We also highlight the dangers of misplaced priorities through Jesus’ Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:22) and the encounter with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16‑22). Can we truly be called “men or women of God” (1 Timothy 6:11)? Are we pursuing transformation through the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2‑3)? Ultimately, godliness must be visible, shining as a testimony that glorifies God (Matthew 5:16). It is the payoff of perseverance and a foundational step toward authentic discipleship. Key Takeaways Godliness is the allegiance of our character, formed by the previous five virtues. True godliness is internal, genuine and rooted in Scripture, not outward performance. It can’t be used for earthly gain; its true gain is contentment. Godliness requires discipline, perseverance and continual renewal of the mind. It must be visible, shining in a way that glorifies God, not us.  

The blueprint for Christian Character development that the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter chapter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. Based upon God’s power and promises, Peter lays out for us the blueprint for a ladder of Christian character development. Peter has taught us that each rung of this ladder is very important to our success in climbing onto the next rung up. In the last four parts of this series, we have focused on one rung of this ladder at a time. We worked on making the connections between what our foundation is and how each step makes us more like Jesus. Step 5 on the ladder Christian perseverance is the fifth step following faith, moral excellence, knowledge and self‑control. Perseverance means “cheerful, hopeful endurance”—an active, conscious decision to “stay under” the weight of trials with constancy. It is not drudgery. It is a spiritually energized commitment to keep moving forward. Perseverance is essential because self‑control can’t survive without it. Scripture shows that perseverance grows out of justification, peace with God, and His grace (Romans 5), and is modeled perfectly by Jesus in his endurance of the torturous cross experience (Hebrews 12). Developing endurance Christians develop perseverance through three major arenas: trials, persecution and loyalty testing. Trials cultivate endurance that leads to maturity, as seen in James’ teaching and in real-life examples of believers who endure suffering with faith. Persecution requires principled perseverance, following Jesus’ example of non-retaliation and trusting God’s power when feeling afflicted or targeted. Loyalty testing cultivates perseverance that glorifies God in every circumstance, choosing prayer, spiritual perspective, and Christlike responses over fleshly reactions. Perseverance strengthens what has already been built—faith, moral excellence, knowledge and self‑control—while enabling continued spiritual growth. Ultimately, perseverance is the allegiance of our energy to God’s will, empowered by His spirit, inspired by Jesus’ sacrifice, and necessary to receive the promised reward. It keeps us from giving up, restores our confidence and helps us “run and not grow weary” as we walk in Christ’s footsteps.  Key Takeaways Perseverance = cheerful, hopeful endurance, not mere survival. Self‑control collapses without perseverance; endurance keeps spiritual progress intact. Jesus is the model of joyful endurance, inspiring us not to lose heart. Trials develop maturity, producing endurance that leads to completeness. Persecution requires principled perseverance, following Jesus’ example of never retaliating. Loyalty to God is proven through endurance, glorifying Him in every circumstance. 

The blueprint for Christian character development that the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. As a basis for this needed growth, we have seen how God’s promises help us to be ready to systematically take the next step up Peter’s “ladder” of Christian character development. So far in our series, we have begun to see how each step up this ladder needs the step before in order to actually bring us towards true daily discipleship. We now continue this character development process by looking into the fourth step up towards Christlikeness. This fourth rung in Peter’s “virtue ladder” from 2 Peter 1:5‑7 is self‑control, the “allegiance of our passions.” The first three rungs—faith, moral excellence and knowledge, deal primarily with internal transformation. Self‑control is the pivot point where that inner work begins to show up in real‑world choices. The Greek word for this conveys mastery, inner power and dominion over oneself. For Christians, this begins with preventing harmful or unproductive thoughts from becoming actions, and culminates in actively choosing what is spiritual, wholesome and Christlike. Our discipline requires self‑examination: identifying what naturally pulls us off course so we can learn to make adjustments. The self-control of an athlete running a race Paul’s athletic metaphors in 1 Corinthians 9 highlight three components of self-control: intentional focus on the goal, embracing necessary limitations and wholehearted perseverance. Like a trained athlete, we as Christians must make many daily small, disciplined choices that strengthen spiritual “muscle memory.” Self-control also shapes how we view and treat others, enabling us to respond with grace rather than instinctive frustration. It’s important to recognize that self-control is not a standalone virtue, and it stabilizes the entire structure of our Christian characters. Without knowledge, self-control becomes directionless; without self-control, perseverance becomes impossible. When rooted in faith, moral excellence, and knowledge, self-control opens the door to genuine spiritual growth and Christlike living. Key Takeaways Self-control is the “allegiance of our passions,” the disciplined governing of our impulses and desires. It is the pivot point where inner transformation becomes outward behavior. True self-control begins with restraint and culminates in choosing what is spiritually beneficial. The Apostle Paul’s athletic imagery teaches focus, limitation and perseverance as essential components. Self-control shapes how we respond to others, reflecting Christ rather than our impulses. It stabilizes the entire virtue ladder and enables the next step: perseverance.

In 2 Peter 1, the Apostle Peter laid out a phenomenal blueprint for us to follow regarding the how and why of developing a focused and loyal character that is modeled after Christ. After reminding us of the incomprehensible promises that God brings us through His power and Jesus’ sacrifice, he then focuses us on doing our part. Peter gives us a blueprint for building a virtue “ladder” of Christian character development, of which the first rung is our faith. Because we have the firm footing of Christian faith in place, we can then develop “moral excellence,” which in turn gives us the stability to next develop knowledge. As we will continue to see, when followed, the order of developing these attributes of our Christian characters will yield an unbreakable allegiance to daily, living God’s will through Christ! Peter’s ladder sequence is intentional: faith establishes our direction, moral excellence aligns our heart with God’s highest standards, and only then can knowledge become a stable, Christlike attribute rather than a source of pride or harm. By contrasting godly vs. misapplied knowledge, we can see that without moral excellence, it can inflate ego and harm others. Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 8 shows that even correct knowledge can become destructive if it emboldens weaker Christians to violate their conscience. True Christian knowledge must therefore be governed by love, humility and responsibility. How much of the Bible do I have to know? This is not about mastering every prophecy or detail, but about understanding Christlikeness and allowing God’s light to shape our intellect. All Scripture – both in the Old and New Testaments – is the essential source of this knowledge, forming a lifelong journey of discernment, filtering out worldly influences, and taking every thought captive to Christ. God’s plan is expansive, merciful and awe‑inspiring. Recognizing its depth should cultivate gratitude rather than arrogance. Paul’s example in Philippians 3 shows the surpassing value of knowing Christ, which makes all previous accomplishments seem like “rubbish” in comparison. Ultimately, knowledge becomes transformative when it flows from faith, is shaped by moral excellence, and leads us toward deeper loyalty to God’s will. Key Takeaways Knowledge must be built on faith and moral excellence to avoid arrogance. Misapplied knowledge can harm others while godly knowledge is always governed by love. All Scripture is the authoritative source of Christian understanding. True knowledge produces humility, responsibility and awe at God’s plan.

In 2 Peter chapter 1, the Apostle Peter is laying out a phenomenal blueprint for us to follow regarding the how and why of developing a focused and loyal character modeled after Christ. He begins by reminding us of the majesty and power of God, along with the loyalty and sacrifice of Jesus. He tells us that because God is as lofty as He is, we are given incomprehensible promises that can bring us to God’s own divine nature. He then tells us what’s required on our part. Peter explains that because of these promises, we need to apply all diligence, and in our faith, we need to supply – to develop and live – a character that will nurture and grow specific virtues of Christlikeness. As we continue our Christian Character Series, the second “Allegiance Attribute” in Peter’s spiritual blueprint is moral excellence. Building on the foundation of faith, we find that that moral excellence is not merely good behavior but wholehearted allegiance of the heart—a life shaped by God’s purpose and modeled after His own character. This excellence evokes the idea of something fulfilling its highest purpose, like a horse that runs fast, or land that produces abundantly. For Christians, this moral excellence means living in a way that reflects God’s excellence and demonstrates that His purpose truly matters to us. Inward excellence and outward goodness This inward excellence naturally produces outward goodness, the visible conduct others can observe. Drawing from several scriptures, we can observe how moral excellence expresses itself through humility, patience, forgiveness, perseverance, gratitude and Spirit‑led transformation. True Christian virtue is not simply avoiding wrongdoing but actively embodying Christlike character in everyday interactions. The challenge is that God’s standard is high, and we will fail repeatedly. Yet Peter reassures us that God has already provided “everything pertaining to life and godliness,” equipping us through His promises to grow into His divine likeness. Moral excellence becomes possible, not because we are strong, but because God is faithful. Ask yourself: Is my moral excellence stronger today than yesterday? Am I becoming the person God intends me to be? Key Takeaways Moral excellence is the allegiance of the heart, reflecting God’s character and purpose. Inner excellence produces visible goodness. True virtue requires intentional growth, not just avoiding sin but embodying Christlike qualities. God equips believers with everything needed to develop moral excellence through His promises. Spiritual progress requires perseverance, humility and daily habits that nurture transformation.

The Apostle Peter began his second letter to all Christians by addressing the very formation of our Christian lives. He proceeded to lay out a deep and profound series of character development steps to show us how to completely and wholly grow into mature disciples of Christ. In Part I of this series, we covered the first four verses of 2 Peter chapter 1. These verses laid out a broad foundation for the development of our Christian character that is based on who God is, what He promises us and what Jesus has done. The next part of the blueprint for our character development is to not only show us traits we need to have included in our Christlikeness, but HOW we are to include them. This episode reveals how Peter unfolds his spirit-driven, exciting and practical approach to building a true Christlike character. Peter’s blueprint continues with a command: “…applying all diligence.” The Greek terms reveal a vivid picture—bringing our effort alongside what God has already supplied, and doing so with eagerness, earnestness and speed. Diligence is the opposite of sluggishness; it reflects a focused loyalty to God’s will. As we receive God’s promises, we are to simultaneously apply this diligence. The first area where diligence must operate is our faith. Faith is not a wish; rather, it is a conviction grounded in God’s reality. It is a gift, and though not earned, it must be tested, strengthened and lived. Trials develop endurance, and endurance matures character. Faith becomes what we call an “Allegiance Attribute”—a foundational internal quality that shapes all the other traits Peter will list. Faith must be active, single‑minded and visible through works. Just as Christ fully supplies the body and Christians supply one another, we are called to fully supply our own character with what it needs to grow. Ultimately, God abundantly supplies entrance into the eternal kingdom, far beyond mere adequacy. Our role is to respond to His overwhelming provision with the diligent and eager faith that fuels the lifelong process of Christlike transformation.  Key Takeaways God’s promises form the foundation for Christian character development. “Applying all diligence” means bringing earnest effort alongside God’s provision. Faith is the first and foundational Allegiance Attribute. Faith must be active, tested, single‑minded and visible through works. Growth is mutual: God supplies us, we supply our character, and we in turn support others. God’s supply is abundant and our response to it must be diligent and wholehearted.

The Apostle Peter began his second letter to all Christians by addressing the very formation of our Christian lives. He proceeded to lay out a deep and profound series of character development steps to show us how to completely and wholly grow into mature disciples of Christ. To begin this process, his clear message in the first four verses of Chapter 1 verifies that we have been given EVERYTHING we need to be faithful to our call. Peter directly connects God’s promises to our faithfulness. What is it about His promises that has such a powerful influence on the everyday lives of those who are “called according to His purpose”? How can we clearly and definitively apply these promises to each and every day of our lives? This episode explores how God’s promises transform the life of a Christian, using 2 Peter 1:1–4 as the foundation. Peter opens his letter by reminding Christians that they have received a “like precious faith”—a faith equal in value to that of the apostles. This faith requires a life of non‑conformity to the world, inner transformation and continual renewal through God’s spirit. Such faith is rooted in the righteous acts of Jesus, whose obedience satisfied divine justice and opened the way for believers to become “new creations.” Grace and peace Peter then highlights that God multiplies grace and peace in the lives of those who grow in true knowledge of Him. This knowledge (Greek: epignosis) is not superficial; it is a deep, ever‑advancing understanding gained through study, prayer, discipline and perseverance. God’s divine power has already provided everything necessary for life and godliness, regardless of one’s circumstances. Christians are fully integrated into God’s plan—granted access, citizenship, a spiritual foundation and a place in His household. Only after establishing this foundation does Peter introduce God’s “precious and magnificent promises.” These promises are trustworthy because they come from God’s unchanging character. They include peace, strength in temptation, instruction, protection, courage, assurance, hope and an ultimate reward of immortality. Importantly, these promises do not remove trials but walk Christians through them, shaping Christlike character. The purpose of these promises is transformative. Through them, we may become “partakers of the divine nature,” escaping the corruption of the world. This extraordinary privilege is granted only to faithful followers of Christ who live in alignment with God’s will. Peter’s introduction sets the stage for the “ladder of virtues” in 2 Peter 1:5–7, which outlines the step‑by‑step development of Christian character. The promises are tools that empower us to grow into mature disciples whose allegiance is fully centered on God. Key Takeaways God’s promises are powerful because of who God is—unchanging, truthful and sovereign. These promises equip, not escape; they strengthen Christians to endure trials. True transformation requires knowledge, discipline and alignment with God’s will. The promises ultimately enable faithful followers of Jesus to become partakers of the divine nature.

In Part I of this two-part series, we focused on the magnificent gift that we as Christians are given when we accept the redemption for our sins available through Jesus’ sacrifice. We talked about the magnitude of this gift and how true disciples of Jesus are also required to give back as a result of receiving this gift. According to Scripture, the action of “giving back” is accomplished through our responsibility to reverently care for it. This care is clearly identified by how we choose to live our lives as genuine followers of Christ. Fortunately, we have clear and concise instructions waiting for us in the Scriptures! Part I established the “required care focuses” from Romans 12:1—recognition, awe, gratitude, humility, intentional self‑denial, adopting a new mindset and full engagement. These attitudes prepare believers for the deeper work of transformation highlighted in the next verse. Romans 12:2 introduces two essential components of discipleship: NOT conforming to the world Being transformed by the renewing of the mind. Additionally, we suggest Christian non‑conformity has two “levels:” We must be OUT of alignment with the world’s values We must walk away from our own internal habits, desires and emotional patterns. Jesus modeled this non‑conformity through his kingdom‑focused life, and his disciples were called to leave behind their former identities and occupations to follow him. The result: a “new creation” Transformation in Christ cannot begin until non‑conformity has intentionally been chosen. 2 Corinthians 5:14–17 and Philippians 3:13–15 reveal that transformation involves seeing others—and even Christ himself—from a spiritual perspective rather than a fleshly one. The Greek word for “transform” (metamorphoō) indicates a complete change of form, illustrated by the transfiguration of Jesus and the believer’s gradual change “from glory to glory” through the spirit. This transformation results in becoming a “new creation,” something entirely fresh and never before existing. This process is lifelong, requiring perseverance, repeated decisions and reliance on God’s strength. Ultimately, transformation leads to receiving a “new name” and full acceptance by God, symbolized in Revelation 2:17. True discipleship is radical, intentional, and deeply rewarding, culminating in participation in God’s future work of blessing all humanity. A Few Key Takeaways True transformation begins only after intentional non‑conformity to the world. Discipleship requires daily self‑denial, a renewed mindset and full engagement. Transformation is a gradual, spirit‑driven process that reshapes identity and purpose. True believers become a “new creation,” ultimately receiving God’s full approval and a symbolic “new name.”

As Christians, we love Jesus. All who claim that Jesus is their Lord and Savior do so because they have acknowledged their own sinful state and have realized the power of forgiveness that comes from Jesus’ sacrifice. It is easy for us to fellowship regarding what we have been freely given. What may not be as easy for us to define is what we are giving. A true disciple of Jesus receives redemption. That same true disciple is also required to give back as a result of that gift. Wait a minute! Isn’t Jesus’ gift freely given with no strings attached? Yes, it is free with no strings attached, and because we receive that gift, we are required to care for it. As we shall soon see, this required care thought is the very essence of being a true and genuine follower of Christ. Discipleship Discipleship is far more than loving Jesus—it requires intentional action, sacrifice and transformation. The “therefore” in Romans 12:1, which is the theme verse for this episode, points back to Romans 11, where Paul explains how Israel’s temporary casting off opened the door of mercy to Gentiles. This undeserved privilege should fill believers with awe, gratitude and humility. True discipleship begins with recognizing the magnitude of God’s gift and responding appropriately. A living sacrifice Paul’s instruction to “present your bodies a living sacrifice” introduces the core requirement of intentional self‑denial. Jesus modeled this throughout his earthly life, denying his own will in favor of the Father’s—even when it meant suffering. Followers of Christ must likewise abstain from sinful desires, count the cost of discipleship, and embrace the hardships, contradictions and separations that come with walking in his footsteps. These challenges are not meaningless; they produce spiritual growth and prepare believers for eternal glory. Holy and acceptable The call to be “holy and acceptable to God” requires adopting a new mindset shaped by the holy spirit. This new mindset involves continual learning, accurate handling of Scripture, humility and a commitment to godliness. Jesus’ own mindset—self‑emptying, obedient and focused on serving God—becomes the pattern for Christian transformation. Finally, Paul describes this sacrificial life as “your reasonable service,” meaning it is the logical response to God’s mercy. Full engagement in discipleship includes prioritizing spiritual goals, supporting fellow believers as members of one body, and pressing forward toward the upward call of God. To truly follow Jesus is to live with recognition, awe, gratitude, humility, intentional self‑denial, a renewed mindset, and wholehearted commitment to God’s will.  

We all love to tell the story of Jesus’ birth. We love the vulnerability behind God’s choice of Mary, the young woman who was engaged to Joseph to be Jesus’ mother. We love the humility of his being born in a stable because there was no room at the inn. We love the magnificence of the angel announcing his birth to shepherds and then having the heavenly host of angels praising and glorifying God. We love the reverential sobriety of the wise men coming with gifts for the small child, Jesus. Some of the things we don’t focus as much attention on are how God used specific individuals surrounding all of these events to speak in a prophetic way and outline in great detail what this series of incredible experiences would mean. Today we pause and consider the words of Zacharias and Elizabeth who were the parents of John the Baptist, Mary, the mother of Jesus, Simeon the prophet and Anna the prophetess. Zacharias Let’s begin with Zacharias, the Jewish priest who, because of his initial doubt, was struck mute by the angel Gabriel until the birth of his son John. This silence became a period of reflection, enabling him to connect Old Testament prophecies with Gabriel’s announcement. At John’s circumcision, Zacharias was again able to speak. He prophesied about both John’s role as forerunner and Jesus as the “horn of salvation.” His prophecy was powerfully based upon the words and promises of the Old Testament. Elizabeth and Mary His middle aged and childless wife, Elizabeth, rejoiced at God’s mercy in giving her a son. Filled with the spirit, she recognized Mary’s child as her Lord and humbly celebrated Mary’s blessing. Mary herself responded with faith and praise, further echoing Old Testament themes of God’s mercy, strength and justice. Simeon After Jesus’ birth, Simeon, an aged and devout man who had been promised he would see the Messiah before death, prophesied about Jesus as salvation for both Israel and the Gentiles. Again, Old Testament prophecies were clearly linked to the work that Jesus would later accomplish. Anna Anna, an elderly prophetess, added her testimony, giving thanks and speaking of redemption to those awaiting Jerusalem’s deliverance. Together, these accounts show God’s spirit orchestrating events and inspiring faithful individuals to proclaim truths that connected Old Testament promises with New Testament fulfillment. Their obedience, humility and prophetic insight highlight the broader plan of redemption for all, unfolding through Jesus’ birth.

So, what is the real mission of Christianity? Are we tasked with converting the world? Are we responsible to preach the good news of the gospel wherever we go, to anyone and everyone? Is the eternal destiny of those we come in contact with heavily dependent upon our delivering the message of salvation? All Christians would agree that at his ascension, Jesus commanded us to be part of preaching the gospel throughout the world. Where we differ is in the outcome of this preaching. The bottom-line question: Do we as Christians bear the responsibility of saving sinners from the wrath of God right here and right now in this age, or do we preach for another reason? Worldwide conversion now? While Jesus commanded his followers to spread the gospel worldwide (Matthew 28:19–20, Acts 1:6–9), the purpose is not immediate worldwide conversion but rather the calling of disciples from all nations. Preaching plants seeds of truth, but only God causes growth (1 Corinthians 3:6–9). The key to understanding the apparent contradiction of Jesus dying for all and yet not all following him now is that salvation unfolds in stages. First, a small group of disciples is called to walk the narrow way, living sacrificially as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). Their faithfulness benefits the rest of humanity later, during the “day of visitation” and ultimate restoration (Romans 8:19–21, Acts 3:20–21). The rest of humanity will eventually be taught, tested and brought to repentance (2 Peter 3:9, 1 Timothy 2:4–6). Preaching today serves to identify disciples and to give glimpses of God’s kingdom, even if most people dismiss or misunderstand it. Seeds of hope Ultimately, preaching is about sowing seeds of hope, pointing to God’s plan of universal restoration, peace and harmony. Scriptures like Micah 4:3–4 and Revelation 21:3–4 promise a future without war, pain or death, where God dwells with humanity. Preaching does not save directly but prepares the way for Christ’s mediation and the eventual salvation of all. Preaching’s purpose: Not immediate conversion but calling disciples and offering hope. Stages of salvation: First disciples, then the world in God’s kingdom. Role of disciples: A “royal priesthood” whose faithfulness benefits all humanity. Future promise: Universal restoration, peace and God having a restored relationship with mankind. Preaching today plants seeds and reveals hope. Salvation itself is God’s work to be fully realized in His kingdom.

As Christians, we deeply appreciate the price Jesus paid for us to be released from the grip of the sin of Adam. To say that this has given us a new opportunity for life is a dramatic understatement. All we can really do is be profoundly thankful as we diligently follow in his footsteps. One question many Christians find uncomfortable to face is the question of the “everybody else.” According to the Bible, what really happens to them? What effect did Jesus’ life, death and resurrection have on those who are atheist, Muslim or Hindu? If we say they are essentially doomed, the question of true justice needs to be addressed. How fair would it be to condemn people to eternal death who in many cases never, ever really knew the name of Jesus? Precisely what effect does Jesus’ sacrifice have on these people? Is salvation for all? At the beginning of the human experience in Genesis, we all inherited of death through Adam’s sin. This teaches us that all of humanity is subject to mortality. Yet from the earliest Scriptures, God provided hope by proclaiming the promise of a “seed” who would ultimately defeat Satan and bring deliverance. This hope is fulfilled in Christ, whose death and resurrection counteract Adam’s transgression. Romans 6:23 and 1 Corinthians 15:22 highlight that while we all die in Adam, all will be made alive in Christ. The promises to Abraham further confirm that “all nations” will be blessed through his seed, identified as Christ in Galatians 3:16. Scriptures soundly proclaim that God’s will is for ALL to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). Colossians 1:20 affirms the reconciliation of “all things” through Christ’s blood. This means Jesus’ sacrifice fully satisfied divine justice, making peace for all humanity. It’s important to recognize that salvation in Jesus unfolds in stages: Jesus’ faithful followers are delivered now, while the rest of humanity will be given opportunity in God’s future kingdom. This two‑part plan ensures fairness and justice, as all will eventually come to full knowledge of the truth. Balancing the scales Romans 5 explains that just as condemnation came through Adam, justification comes through Christ, balancing the scales of divine justice. Several Old Testament prophecies reveal the vision of all nations worshiping God, showing the ultimate outcome of Jesus’ suffering. The power of the Bible’s message is evident: Jesus died for every single human being, ensuring both justice and hope for all creation.

Reading the Bible can be confusing. After all, it is an ancient book of a collection of writings by about 40 people over a 1500-year span that details the plan of God through history, prophecy, parables, laws, observations and life guidance teachings. Some of the accounts of specific individuals featured in the Bible can come across as shrouded in mystery. Such is the case with the ending of the lives of Enoch, Moses and Elijah. The accounts of the deaths of these three faithful men can bring more questions than answers. What really happened to them? Was Enoch taken up to be with God? Why was the body of Moses hidden, and why did Satan seem to want it? Did Elijah really go to heaven in a fiery chariot? Moses and Satan Moses’ death is recorded in Deuteronomy 34, where God Himself buried him in an unknown location. While this seems to be a very clearly stated end of his life, Jude 1:9 adds the unusual detail of Michael the archangel disputing with Satan over Moses’ body, possibly to prevent the people of Israel from idolizing it. Elijah the prophet Elijah’s departure in 2 Kings 2 is often misunderstood. Though taken up by a whirlwind with fiery chariots present, the Hebrew word for “heaven” often refers to the sky rather than God’s dwelling place. Jesus’ statement in John 3:13 confirms that no one ascended to God’s heaven before him. Elijah may have been removed from prophetic service or died, but he was not taken to God’s abode. Both Moses and Elijah appeared in The Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17, Mark 9, Luke 9) vision. This vision was NOT a literal resurrection of Moses and Elijah, as the Bible clearly defines death as the absence of life on any level. Jesus alone was transfigured, while Moses and Elijah symbolically represented the Law and the Prophets, pointing to Christ as the centerpiece of God’s plan. Enoch “translated” Finally, in relation to Enoch, “God took him” (or “translated” him according to the King James Version). While many notions exist about Enoch never dying, careful reading of the scripture texts in question reveal that he did die and likely didn’t know his death was coming. Examining these fascinating narratives reveals the allure of creating drama where there is none, as well as the dangers of scriptural misinterpretation. Instead of being imaginative, let’s rely on the fact that God is in complete control of everything we simply don’t know!

If you haven’t noticed, our world in a very big way has lost its grip on the value of gratitude. Instead of having a thankful heart for whatever our opportunities we may have and what we may receive, we seem to double down on living with a sense of entitlement. We can look at this and wonder where we went wrong! The fact is this issue is the result of human imperfection and has been around for a very long time. The story of the Ten Lepers in Luke 17 reminds us of this. Leprosy—once a living death—left its victims isolated, disfigured and desperate. Yet when Jesus healed ten lepers, only one returned to give thanks. Why does thankfulness matter so deeply to God? And what does this ancient disease reveal about the spiritual condition of humanity today? This whole healing account offers a profound spiritual metaphor for sin and redemption, emphasizing the transformative power of gratitude and faith. Leprosy, a devastating disease in biblical times, aptly pictures the isolating, disfiguring and numbing effects of sin. Victims were socially ostracized, legally declared unclean and forced to live apart from society. When Jesus healed ten lepers, only one—a Samaritan—returned to express gratitude, highlighting the rarity and depth of true thankfulness. One uniqueness regarding this particular account is that the healing was not immediate; Jesus instructed the lepers to go show themselves to the priests, requiring faith before any visible change occurred. Their obedience mirrors the future resurrection, where humanity will walk toward complete healing through faith, not instant transformation. Key spiritual parallels between leprosy and sin include: Progressive decay: Leprosy worsens over time, just as sin deepens without divine intervention. Numbness: Leprosy dulls pain, leading to self-harm; sin desensitizes conscience, causing spiritual damage. Isolation: Lepers were cut off from community; sin separates us from God and others. The Samaritan’s gratitude was immediate and passionate, even before being officially declared clean. His response exemplifies the kind of faith that transforms—not just heals. Jesus’ phrase “your faith has made you well” implies both physical and spiritual restoration. This phrase appears only three times in the New Testament, each time marking a deeper healing tied to faith and gratitude. While God’s mercy is freely given, gratitude is the evidence of transformative faith. The Samaritan’s return to glorify God reveals the heart posture God desires—faith expressed through gratitude, even in adversity.

It is said that when Benjamin Franklin was an American Minister in Paris, he spent an evening with a group of intellectuals at a time when literary circles were known for being agnostic or even atheistic. He was called on to contribute to the entertainment and read from what he called a “charming bit of literature.” He proceeded to read the entire Book of Ruth. The normally skeptical audience was delighted and wanted to know where in ancient history such a beautiful and idealistic story could be found. They were shocked to find out it had been copied from the Bible. The story of Ruth is indeed beautiful as an endearing account of loyalty, faith and divine providence. The account explores how Ruth’s faithful decisions amid hardship reflect profound spiritual lessons. After the deaths of her husband and two sons, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem. Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law, chose loyalty over comfort and insisted on going with her into a land of a diversly different culture. Ruth’s declaration, “Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God” marks a pivotal moment of voluntary discipleship, echoing the call to follow Christ. Naomi’s selflessness and Ruth’s humility set the stage for divine providence to unfold. Ruth’s decision to glean in Boaz’s field, seemingly by chance, revealed God’s guiding hand. Boaz, a wealthy and godly man, noticed Ruth’s integrity and ensured her safety and provision. His actions mirrored Christ’s care for his followers, offering not just sustenance but honor and protection. Key takeaways from this amazing account include strong insights into the three main people in the account: Ruth’s loyalty and humility positioned her to receive God’s abundant blessings. Naomi’s wise and selfless guidance allowed Ruth to make a free, faith-driven choice. Boaz’s integrity and generosity reflect Christlike leadership and compassion. The story further emphasizes that: God can work through imperfect decisions to bring about redemption. Humble service and steadfast commitment open the door to spiritual abundance. Providential “happenings” often disguise divine orchestration. Ultimately, Ruth’s story illustrates how one person’s faithful choice can ripple across generations, shaping legacy and revealing God’s character. Her journey from foreign widow to honored matriarch in Israel’s lineage of Jesus himself reminds believers that dedication, humility and trust in God’s timing yield lasting impact.

From what the Bible tells us about Enoch, he was an amazingly holy man who lived long before the Flood. To be described as one who “walked with God” is a true testimony of a life well lived. Further, a few lines of the Book of Enoch are actually quoted in the New Testament. With such credentials, we would have to wonder why the Book of Enoch is not a part of the Bible itself. Why wouldn’t you include the writings of a man who walked with God for 300 years? Could this be an oversight…or a conspiracy? Fortunately, a clear understanding of history and the Bible gives us thorough and conclusive answers to all of these questions. What do we really know about Enoch? Even though he is rarely mentioned in the Bible, every reference to him shows his faith in and reverence for God. He lived before the Flood and was the seventh generation from Adam. He is referenced in the book of Hebrews as a righteous man, and his prophetic words are quoted in Jude. With all of these positives in place, we need to review the reasons the Book of Enoch is NOT in the Bible. There are actually three Books of Enoch: 1 Enoch, 2 Enoch and 3 Enoch. We only focus on the first, as the other two books have never been considered for biblical inclusion. There are at least five key criteria that explain its exclusion: 1 Enoch was never part of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh), which formed the foundation of the Christian Old Testament. It is pseudepigraphal, meaning it was written centuries after Enoch’s life by unknown authors, likely during the Second Temple Period (300–100 BCE), and preserved only in Ge’ez, a classical Ethiopian language. Its speculative theology includes fantastical angelology, apocalyptic visions and cosmology inconsistent with biblical truth and scientific understanding. Its transmission history is very weak, lacking widespread manuscript preservation compared to canonical texts. It was not used consistently across early Christian communities, with only the Ethiopian Orthodox Church recognizing it as scripture. While 1 Enoch offers historical insight into Second Temple Judaism and reflects themes like judgment and the “Son of Man,” its theological inconsistencies and limited acceptance disqualify it from canon. Our focus should be on God-inspired Scripture, and we need to beware of being misled by writings that mimic biblical style but lack divine authority.

“People should get what they deserve.” I’m guessing that most of us would see this as a general statement of fairness and equity. Of course, for this statement to ring true, we need to agree on who or what ultimately determines what people deserve. On a very basic level, this may sound like karma. So, what is karma? Basically, karma is the idea that what you do, especially your choices and intentions, shapes what happens to you later. If you act kindly and do good, good things are more likely to come your way. If you act selfishly or harm others, you may face negative consequences. In many Indian traditions, this isn’t just about this life, it can affect what kind of life you’re born into next. So, do Bible teachings supports the idea of karma? Are the two in harmony? Similar principles? While both Karma and the gospel emphasize consequences for actions— “you reap what you sow”— they do diverge significantly in their foundations. Karma, rooted in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, is a complex, often impersonal law of cause and effect, sometimes spanning multiple lifetimes through reincarnation. In contrast, the Bible teaches a single human life followed by judgment in accordance with divine grace and forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ. One may present three biblical arguments that resemble karmic principles: sowing and reaping (Galatians 6), reciprocity in judgment (Matthew 7), and narrative examples of moral consequences (e.g., David and Bathsheba, Achan’s disobedience). However, the gospel introduces the key distinction that God’s grace is not earned but freely given, and forgiveness is central to Christian life. Karma lacks a personal deity who intervenes with mercy; instead, it operates as a mechanical system of moral accounting. Christianity offers clarity, direction and divine support, while karmic systems often leave individuals to navigate consequences without memory of past lives or a defined path to enlightenment. Ultimately, the gospel is a more compassionate and purposeful framework, culminating in eternal life through Christ, rather than endless cycles of rebirth. Key Takeaways: Karma and the Bible both teach consequences, but differ in origin, scope and divine involvement. Karma is impersonal and often tied to reincarnation; the gospel centers on grace, forgiveness and a single human life. Biblical justice is relational and redemptive, guided by God’s mercy and Jesus’ advocacy. The gospel provides a clear, loving plan for humanity’s restoration, surpassing karma’s uncertainty.