“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.

In our last episode, we spent some time defining exactly what Christian liberty is and what it is not. What we found is that Christian liberty has little to do with the kinds of freedoms that are reflected in a social status kind of way and everything to do with being given spiritual freedom that is to be exercised with great humility and responsibility. We also uncovered how the gift of Christian liberty can be easily misrepresented and therefore misused. This is troubling, as the results of these misapplications add up to decisions and conclusions that are NOT Christ-based. How can we avoid these pitfalls?

Because our freedom in Christ is a sacred privilege and not a license for self-indulgence, it comes with “guardrails,” moral boundaries that guide us toward righteousness and away from licentiousness.
Three key areas in our lives where our liberty can easily be misapplied:

* How we act: True liberty leads to loving service, not fleshly indulgence. Paul warned that irresponsible behavior can harm others and dishonor Christ. We must walk by the spirit and consider how our actions affect weaker consciences (Galatians 5, 1 Corinthians 8).
* What we say: The distinction between “my truth” and “THE truth” is critical. Christian liberty does not grant freedom to redefine doctrine based on personal feelings, experiences or preference. Instead, we are called to speak and live according to Scripture, becoming “doers of the Word and not merely hearers” (James 1).
* How we pursue peace and joy: Our liberty includes the freedom to surrender fully to God. On this episode, we read a personal testimony from a brother in Christ which illustrates how withholding repentance and vulnerability can block spiritual peace. Our true liberty requires humility, confession and submission to God’s will.

The bottom line is, our Christian liberty is designed for transformation, not convenience. It equips all believers to make God-honoring choices, serve others and reflect Christ’s character in a broken world. The freedom we have is not FROM responsibility, but FOR righteousness.

 

The freedom, the liberty we obtain when we have been called to be disciples of Jesus is so much more than just a feeling of relief and joy. The fact is, having liberty in Christ actually defines a state of being, as it describes our freedom from whatever previously held us captive in our lives. It’s no wonder we feel the thrill of liberation! Here are the practical questions: What does it mean on a practical daily level to have this freedom so firmly set in our lives? What freedom of choice does it give? What freedom of choice does liberty in Christ take away? How are we supposed to know the difference?
What is liberty? What isn't liberty?
To begin with, we need to understand what Christian liberty is and is not. Upon examining several scriptures, it becomes obvious that Christian liberty is not unrestricted autonomy. It is not a free pass to do as we please. Rather, it is a divinely granted freedom from sin and spiritual bondage, which is only possible through Jesus’ sacrifice.

To truly understand this, it’s important to define liberty through both secular and biblical lenses. While secular definitions include "freedom from restraint" and "the power to act as one pleases," biblical liberty, as defined in the New Testament refers to moral and spiritual freedom, and not license for indulgence. The Greek words for "liberty" show how freedom in Christ involves being freed from the law of sin and death, and not from moral responsibility.
What about licentiousness?
Though “licentiousness” is a biblical form of liberty, it is directly opposed to Christian liberty. Licentiousness is derived from the same root word as our English “license.” It is described as a counterfeit freedom, an unrestrained indulgence that leads to spiritual corruption. False teachers, as warned by Peter and Jude, distort grace into permission for immoral behavior, undermining the transformative power of Christian freedom.

While liberty in Christ brings privilege it also comes with responsibility:

* It requires being a “doer” of the Word, not just a hearer (James 1:22–25).
* It involves the personal cost of sacrifice, transformation and application (Romans 12:1–5).
* It is not social liberation but spiritual elevation, lifting believers above worldly constraints.

Ultimately, our Christian liberty is framed as a gift from God, granted through His spirit and meant to guide us into holiness. It is a freedom with guardrails, designed not for self-indulgence but for loving service and spiritual growth.

The Apostle Paul wrote a significant portion of the New Testament. There are 27 different books in the New Testament, and Paul is credited with writing about half of them. For the vast majority of Christians, his writings provide extremely practical teachings and examples for us to build upon the single and solid foundation of Jesus Christ. That being said, there are some Christians who believe Paul was an imposter, a self-appointed apostle who was actually diminishing the power of the Gospel of Jesus. What would make someone question the validity of Pauls’ writings? It turns out there are several varied reasons for this perspective. The question is, are they legitimate and what do they imply?
A major challenge
One of several major challenges to Paul’s apostleship we confront in this episode is that Paul never listed the Ten Commandments in full. While true, this actually mirrors Jesus’ own approach. Neither quoted them entirely but both emphasized their moral essence. Paul affirmed many commandments individually: he quoted the Fifth in Ephesians 6:1–3 and referenced the Sixth, Seventh, Eight and Tenth in Romans 13:9. He also implied the First and Second in Acts 17 and taught truthfulness in Ephesians 4:25, echoing the Ninth. Though he never explicitly cited the Third (against taking God’s name in vain), neither did Jesus, although reverence for God’s name was clearly implied.
Another objection
Another objection claims Paul’s stance on circumcision contradicts Jesus. A key point about Paul’s teaching in Galatians 5 is that he opposed legalism, not circumcision itself. He warned against using rituals for justification, emphasizing that salvation comes through Christ alone. Paul even had Timothy circumcised—not for salvation, but to aid in the ministry work among Jews.

Further objections—such as the claim that all churches in the Roman province of Asia rejected Paul (2 Timothy 1:15) or that Revelation 2:2 denounces him can easily be answered by contextual study. Such study reveals that Paul’s abandonment was due to shame over his imprisonment, not doctrinal rejection. The denouncing of false apostles in Revelation clearly refers to later imposters, and not Paul himself.

Ultimately, Paul’s gospel is given to complement Jesus’ message, as it is tailored for Gentile audiences unfamiliar with Jewish law. His teachings emphasized love, transformation and Christ-centered righteousness, not ritual observance. Scriptural evidence clearly points to Paul as a faithful apostle, not an imposter.

If we are serious about our Christianity, then we know that the bottom line of everything in our lives is to be more like Jesus. If we call ourselves disciples of Christ, if we call ourselves his footstep followers, then any and every other objective in life must by definition become secondary. Our last seven episodes have been examining several of Paul’s pointed statements regarding our separateness from the world in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24. Having God “sanctify us entirely” is the dramatic conclusion of this powerful set of teachings. So, how does it work? What are the secrets of Jesus’ true followers living their daily lives in a truly holy fashion? Does God just set us apart? What are the standards we must adhere to? How do we know if we are on the right track?
The call for Christians to live sanctified lives is truly profound.
To be "sanctified" is to be set apart from worldly influences and wholly devoted to God’s purpose. Sanctification is not only an individual journey but a collective responsibility of the entire church. It’s both a divine gift and a developmental process requiring intentional effort. God initiates sanctification, but we must sanctify ourselves by actively pursuing holiness.

Paul taught the Thessalonian Christians that they had a threefold unity: spirit, soul and body, representing the spiritual harmony, shared mission and coordinated action of the church community as a whole. God helps us rise to these challenges by giving us His sanctifying spirit and His undefiled words in Scripture as instructions. We are given everything we need; now we need to do our part!

When reviewing the previous seven lessons of our Christian Conduct Series, we need to keep Paul’s conclusion in mind: 1 Thessalonians 5:24: "Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass."
God's faithfulness in proven by His care in:
• giving us diligent, spirit-driven and humble shepherds to guide and teach us.
• setting up His church in a mutually upbuilding way.
• providing a spirit-driven environment that invites a thriving state of being.
• setting up his church with a continuous line of communication through prayer.
• providing us with abundant reasons for daily gratitude.
• giving us His spirit and giving us ways to feed its influence.
• setting up His church in a mutually upbuilding way.

Ultimately, Paul’s message is that God is faithful—He provides the tools, the spirit, and the community for us to grow in holiness and preserve spiritual integrity!

All upbuilding and spiritually mature Christian thought and action inevitably have their foundation in Scripture. The Bible gives us clear truth. Just as importantly, it gives us clear direction as to how to apply those clear truths to our lives in practical ways. In 1 Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul teaches us to NOT despise "prophetic utterances." Why would we make light of any teachings given for our benefit? As we shall see, Paul’s teaching here is showing us to be open and accepting towards what our brotherhood is proclaiming to us, but not without caution. Next, he warns us to examine everything! Is this a contradiction? Are we supposed to embrace what we hear, or are we supposed to be skeptical?

The key to answering this question lies in understanding how Christians can discern which teachings and prophesyings are trustworthy, especially in a world filled with conflicting spiritual claims. Biblical truth must be rooted in Scripture, not personal feelings, traditions or charismatic personalities. It is vital to not accept teachings simply because they sound good or align with popular opinion. Instead, the Apostle Paul urged us to test all spiritual claims against the Bible’s consistent message, historical context and prophetic accuracy.

In this journey, it’s important to highlight humility, study and spiritual maturity in evaluating doctrine. We also need to address the danger of false prophets and misinterpreted signs, remembering that genuine prophesying aligns with God's character and long-term plan of redemption.
A few key takeaways
• Scripture is the ultimate authority: All teachings and prophesying must be measured against the Bible’s consistent message.
• Emotions and tradition can mislead: Just because something feels right or is widely accepted doesn’t mean it’s biblically sound.
• False prophets and teachers are real and can be persuasive: The Bible warns repeatedly about deception, especially in the End Times.
• Prophesying must align with God’s character: True informative and enlightening teaching reflects God’s justice, mercy and long-term purpose.
• Spiritual maturity is essential: Discernment grows through study, prayer and humility—not through quick conclusions or viral teachings.

Our bottom line is the importance of examining the Scriptures carefully as a testing ground for what we hear. God's word is sufficient and trustworthy, even when cultural voices or influencers claim new revelations. Ultimately, the path to truth is paved with careful study, accountability and a deep reverence for God’s Word.

God’s spirit—His power and influence—is a power we can't even begin to comprehend. His spirit was introduced to us as the mighty power of His will in Genesis 1:1-3 as His creative process began with “Let there be light." This same power and influence is described as taking root in us in Ephesians 1:13 where it says we were sealed with God’s spirit through the salvation of Jesus. With all of the marvel of this mighty power of God working in us, how is it that we can "quench" it? Why would we ever even think of doing such a thing and most importantly, what do the Scriptures tell us about handling this awesome privilege with reverence and humility?

The biblical warning from 1 Thessalonians 5:19 to “not quench the spirit” has important meaning in regard to Christian conduct in our day. Quenching the powerful and transformative force of God’s spirit means stifling or extinguishing that divine influence through neglect, disobedience or self-deception.

Critical elements for avoiding this spiritually destructive behavior were laid out by the Apostle Paul in his previous teachings about rejoicing, prayer and gratitude, as these behaviors “fuel” the spirit.

Conversely, bitterness, distraction and indifference can suppress it. The Bible provides vivid metaphors—like hiding a lamp under a basket or forgetting one’s reflection in a mirror—to illustrate how spiritual neglect can lead to eventual quenching of the spirit.

While there is a difference between grieving the spirit (through harmful attitudes or behaviors) and quenching it (cutting off its influence entirely) we as disciples are urged to remain attentive and disciplined, feeding the spirit through active faith and humility.
Key Takeaways:
• To "quench the spirit" means extinguishing God’s influence through neglect or resistance.
• Joy, prayer and gratitude are essential "spiritual fuels" that keep the spirit alive.
• "Grieving the spirit" through such things as bitterness or gossip can lead to quenching if left unchecked.
• Distraction and indifference are common modern threats to spiritual attentiveness.
• Active faith involves doing, not just hearing—responding to conviction, not suppressing it.
• The armor of God, especially the shield of faith, helps extinguish Satan’s attacks. In this context, "quenching" is a good thing!
• God’s mercy ensures even a flickering ember of faith is precious and worth fanning into flame.

One of the hallmark attitudes of a focused Christian life is being thankful. The very foundation of our Christian beliefs is the fact that being redeemed from sin and death by the love and sacrifice of Jesus is a gift that is in every case beyond our ability to earn or deserve. We are freely given life in Christ, and therefore we have great motivation to live in a state of gratefulness. That being said, how far should this grateful attitude go? Is it really supposed to encompass each and every experience we have? Does being thankful in everything mean we should never be sad or anxious?

There is a profound challenge requiring a necessary spiritual discipline before us if we are attempting to live with gratitude in all circumstances. We base this on 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” This teaching builds on two prior principles— “Rejoice always” and “Pray without ceasing”—to form a triad of Christian conduct that fosters spiritual resilience and peace.

To meet this challenge, we must accept that true thankfulness is not a fleeting emotion but is instead a cultivated state of perception. It means viewing life’s hardships—grief, loss, uncertainty—through the lens of trust in God’s providence. The Apostle Paul models this in 2 Corinthians 12, where he expresses gratitude for unanswered prayers, recognizing that weakness becomes strength when Christ is present.
True thankfulness in everything can be described as being:
• A spiritual lens that reshapes how we interpret suffering.
• A gateway to peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6–7).
• An active expression, not just a feeling—meant to be lived and shared.

Paul’s Epistles demonstrate that thankfulness should be expressed both to God and to others. His joy over the Thessalonians’ faith despite their persecution illustrates how mutual encouragement strengthens the body of Christ.

There are MANY reasons for us to be thankful daily.
Here are just three core reasons daily gratitude is in order:

* For our calling to follow Jesus (Colossians 2:6–7)
* For Jesus’ sacrifice which is described as an indescribable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15)
* For God’s enduring faithfulness and creative power (Psalm 92)

Ultimately, thankfulness is a spiritual discipline that equips Christian believers to endure trials, uplift others, and align with God’s will. It’s not about denying pain. It’s about trusting that even in pain, God is present and purposeful.

To live a truly dedicated Christian life is to live a life that has a firm grasp on prayer. It is a life that strongly and regularly seeks out God’s will and blessing in all that we do. It also seeks to regularly ask for blessings and providence over the lives of our fellow disciples. There are many scriptures that teach us about how to pray and how not to pray. So, how does all of this fit into the life of a Christian living in the 21st century? Does the fact that our life experiences are so vastly different than the times of the apostles change or alter anything? We are taught to “pray without ceasing.” How can we practically accomplish this on top of managing all of the other responsibilities of life?

When Paul wrote to the Thessalonians to pray without ceasing, he was not suggesting nonstop verbal prayer. The phrase refers to cultivating a continual attitude of prayerfulness—a spiritual reflex that keeps communication with God open throughout daily life. This mindset is closely tied to the practice of rejoicing always and giving thanks in everything. Together, these habits create a kind of spiritual resilience that keeps us grounded and connected to God.

Paul’s letters offer examples of this ceaseless prayer: he regularly remembered the faith and love of the Thessalonians, expressed gratitude for their reception of the gospel, and interceded for the broader Christian community. His prayers were not limited to urgent needs but included repeated thanksgiving for past blessings, showing that prayer is both reflective and forward-looking.
There are several practical labels for this ongoing prayerful state, including:
• Micro prayers—brief, breath-length expressions of thanks or need
• Flare prayers—urgent cries for help in moments of distress
• Echo prayers—reciting Scripture back to God
• Inner dialogue—maintaining a mental conversation with God throughout the day
What does supplication mean?
When it comes to deeper and more intense prayers, "supplication" is an essential and distinct form of prayer. It involves earnest requests regarding specific challenges. Supplication should be paired with thanksgiving to avoid demanding to God what we want. Even Jesus modeled this in Gethsemane, praying intensely yet always submitting to God’s will.

Ultimately, to pray without ceasing means living in constant spiritual awareness by bringing every joy, struggle and decision before God. It’s not about thoughtless repetition but sincerity, gratitude and trust. Our privilege is to embrace this privilege and deepen our connection to God through consistent, heartfelt prayer.

A Christian life is supposed to be an energized and fulfilled life. It is supposed to be this way because we have been called to follow in Jesus’ footsteps. This means our lives are to be centered around following God’s word and will, regardless of what our circumstances may lay before us. So, when things are going smoothly and difficulties seem to be at a minimum, we can rejoice and thank God for His providence. By the same reasoning, when things are unstable, disastrous and traumatic, we can rejoice and thank God for His providence. Wait, what? How do we do that? How do we find and embrace true rejoicing in our lives when our external circumstances and our internal emotional state are breaking down?
Rejoice always?
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16, Paul gives a deceptively simple command: “Rejoice always.” As we look more deeply into the meaning of this teaching, we begin to see that rejoicing is not about emotional highs. Rather, it is about cultivating a calm, thriving state of being rooted in trust and purpose. Jesus modeled this state of being perfectly. Hebrews 12:2 says he endured the cross “for the joy set before him.” This joy was a joy that was grounded in fulfilling God’s will without trying to escape pain and suffering.

The apostles followed suit. In Acts 5 after being flogged for preaching, they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ. Their joy wasn’t a euphoric feeling. It was focused, resilient and a mission-driven mindset.
Key lessons about rejoicing
• Rejoicing is calm and centered: It means thriving in God’s will, even amid grief or hardship.
• Rejoicing is not the same as being glad: “Be glad” (Matthew 5:12) refers to emotional exaltation, which comes in moments of spiritual triumph.
• Rejoicing is shareable: Paul urges believers to “rejoice and share your joy” (Philippians 2:17–18), showing that shared joy strengthens community.
• Rejoicing is rooted in selfless love: 1 Corinthians 13 teaches that love “rejoices with the truth,” not with unrighteousness.
• Rejoicing reaches beyond circumstances: Even in sorrow, believers are called to rejoice—not by denying pain, but by being anchored in God’s promises.

Ultimately, rejoicing always is about living with spiritual clarity and purpose. It’s a quiet strength that fuels endurance, uplifts others and reflects the joy of being held in God’s care. Whether we’re weeping or celebrating, this kind of joy is our daily invitation to thrive!

According to the New Testament, Christians are instructed to work together as a community. Even more than that, we are instructed to care for one another as a family, humbly serve one another and protect one another as soldiers in battle - even to the point of being willing to sacrifice ourselves. All of this is to be put in place while we each are dedicated to following the clear and godly teachings of Jesus in Scripture. So, how do we go about making all of this happen? In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he gives us a list of practical ways we should take care of one another. While this list is not comprehensive, it alerts us to several of the foundational principles of sound Christian conduct.

This episode of our Christian Conduct Series focuses on how each believer can actively contribute to the health of their church community. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5:12–15, we can see the Apostle Paul lays out a blueprint for mutual care, beginning with honoring spiritual leaders and extending to everyday interactions within the body of Christ.

These instructions aren’t just ideals—they’re actionable steps rooted in humility, empathy and discipleship.

Paul’s list includes five key responsibilities that shape a spiritually vibrant church. Each of these reflects the character of Christ and reinforces the interdependence of believers. A major foundational point here is that these contributions are not optional niceties but essential disciplines for anyone seeking to live out their faith within the Christian community.
Key Contributions to a Healthy Church
• Admonish the unruly: Gently correct those who are out of step with Christian principles, aiming for restoration—not shame.

• Encourage the fainthearted: Comfort those who are timid, anxious, or overwhelmed with emotional and spiritual support.

• Help the weak: Cling to and support those who lack strength—physically, morally, or spiritually—through loyal, spiritually based companionship.

• Be patient with everyone: Practice forbearance by restraining reactive impulses and allowing space for small steps of growth.

• Seek good for all: Reject retaliation and pursue what benefits others, modeling the selfless love of Jesus.

By living these principles, we can create a healthy church with a culture of compassion, accountability and spiritual resilience. The message is clear: mutual contribution isn’t just about helping others—it’s about embodying Christ in every relationship.

Christians are supposed to live lives that reflect godliness every day and in every way. This is not only difficult but frankly looked down upon. Because our world is driven by technology and social media, we are saturated daily with images, commentary, suggestions and pressure to stand for ourselves with pride and conviction. To stand as one subservient to God through Christ and to be guided by the Bible (which to many is misguided, ancient and outdated) is seen as a useless and even dangerous way of life. So, what do we do? How do we stand firmly and confidently as disciples of Christ? It all begins with the biblical principles we claim to hold as sound and true.
What should a Christian leader look like?
The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:12 that striving to genuinely appreciate those who are tasked with shepherding Jesus’ flock is one of those biblical principles that should guide our behavior. In this epistle, Paul highlighted many of the character traits, responsibilities and sacrifices of true Christian leaders. We should follow and appreciate our shepherds only as they follow Christ.

Interestingly, Paul’s personal model of leadership is a strong guide for us to grasp what shepherding really looks like. His example is rooted in humility, integrity and spiritual maturity. He emphasizes that shepherds must serve willingly, not for personal gain, and must be examples of Christlike living. Paul’s personal interactions with the Thessalonian church showed how he prayed for them, recognized their growth and endured persecution while supporting their faith.
Key takeaway points regarding our appreciation of our spiritual shepherds include:
• Christian leadership is defined by humility and service (John 13:14).
• Leaders must be above reproach, spiritually mature and doctrinally sound (Titus 1:5–9).
• Terms like "elder," "overseer," and "shepherd" describe different aspects of care—not hierarchical roles.
• Paul’s example shows leaders should be prayerful, observant, selfless and fearless in adversity.
• Appreciation begins with recognizing the sacrifices and spiritual investment of leaders.
• True appreciation involves reciprocating, imitating and elevating our own spiritual conduct.
• Jesus' followers are urged to internalize what they’ve received and transform it into service for others.
• Applying appreciation includes standing firm in faith, resisting worldly desires and proving truth through Scripture.

Ultimately, what's the best what to appreciate our spiritual leaders? The Apostle Paul taught it is to: follow their Christlike example, grow in faith, and then pass on what we’ve received.

As Christians who are to walk by faith and not by sight, the statements Jesus made about having faith as a mustard seed are sure appealing. In Luke, Jesus says faith like a mustard seed can uproot a tree and toss it into the sea. In Matthew, he said mustard-seed faith can move a mountain and make nothing impossible for us! So, what did Jesus mean? Obviously, he was using picture language, but he was still showing us that mustard-seed faith can dramatically change our lives. Why a mustard seed and how does this work? What do we need to do to have such a strong and foundational faith that the obstacles of our lives will be diminished before us?

The disciples asked Jesus to increase their faith after hearing difficult teachings about forgiveness and accountability. Jesus’ response to their request was the mustard seed analogy. His purpose was not to highlight minimal faith, but rather to illustrate faith’s capacity to grow and overcome great obstacles.
You of little faith
In related teachings, Jesus used the phrase “you of little faith” on four separate occasions. Applying these lessons in the order they were given reveals a progressive development of our mustard seed faith:

Magnitude: In calming the storm (Matthew 8), Jesus showed that mustard seed faith must recognize the vast power of God. The disciples had faith but lacked confidence.

Practicality: In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6), Jesus taught that this kind of faith should relieve anxiety by trusting in God’s provision.

Deliverance: Peter walking on water (Matthew 14) demonstrated that mustard seed faith enables us to step out in trust, even if we falter. Jesus’ rescue of Peter showed compassionate support for growing faith.

Guidance: When the disciples misunderstood Jesus’ warning about leaven (Matthew 16), he corrected them, urging spiritual discernment over physical concerns.

This kind of faith must be nurtured, tested and matured. It begins small but is rooted in the right foundation: God’s truth and Christ’s example. Mustard seed faith is all about transformation, starting small but growing strong through life’s trials and divine guidance.

As Christians, we all draw great comfort from the promise of Jesus’ return. Just as in his first advent, his presence in his second advent proclaims that God’s plan is not only underway but unbreakable as well. The challenge comes when we as Christians try and comprehend the mechanics and timing of his return. There are many prophecies, many hints and many seemingly confusing statements about his return. So, what are we supposed to do with all of this? In this episode, we are suggesting we look at an overview of several aspects of his return and then settle in on one aspect that describes a specific sign of his return that is plain and simple, and yet somewhat hidden from many who watch.
The Greek word Parousia
To understand the many and varied signs of Jesus’ return, we need to grasp the biblical distinction between the New Testament Greek word translated “coming” and its true meaning being “presence.” This simple and appropriate correction helps us see Jesus’ return not as an abrupt arrival, but rather as a gradual, multi-phase process beginning quietly, like a "thief in the night," and culminating in visible glory and restoration.

This understanding is verified in the many descriptions of Jesus’ return.
His return includes:

* Power and glory in symbolic “clouds”
* A trumpet and shout announcing resurrection
* Participation with his “mighty angels” (faithful followers)
* A dismantling of worldly systems before the restoration of all things

Rather than predicting future events, we live at a time when looking backward at fulfilled prophecies can provide overwhelming evidence of Jesus’ presence. The regathering of Israel to their homeland is just one key sign of his return. Jesus linked the fig tree as a symbol of Israel to his presence. Israel’s restoration—starting with the settlement of Petah Tikva in 1878, and then nationhood in 1948—is a visible fulfillment. These historical facts and the way Jesus linked them in prophecy should not be taken lightly.

Revelation’s depiction of the church's historical timeline (Revelation 2–3) serves to verify the fig tree prophecies. In Revelation, seven churches depict seven phases of Christian history. In the final stage, Jesus is "standing at the door," meaning he has arrived, exactly as he said he would when Israel was to be restored. This exact language contained in both prophecies is a strong verification of where we stand regarding prophecies fulfilled in God’s plan today.

The return of Jesus is a multi-faceted process for the ultimate purpose of the restoration of the earth and humanity into harmony with our Creator. Though the completion of this restoration passes through trouble and strife, the results will be the establishment of God’s glorious kingdom on earth!

The man Christ Jesus stands at the center of the faith of hundreds of millions of people. His very existence, along with the words and actions of his life, creates a remarkable tapestry that truly provides a strong foundation for believers. Sometimes questions arise about how and why Jesus did all that he did. Was his life scripted? This question can have several layers. First, did Jesus do the things he did in a mechanical way, solely for the purpose of fulfilling Old Testament prophecies? Second, and on a much deeper level of skepticism, could Jesus have fulfilled the prophecies he fulfilled just as a show, to gain followers and notoriety? Could his life have been a collection of events designed to merely draw attention to himself and create a movement?

To emphatically answer these questions, we will just examine 14 of the hundreds of prophecies that Jesus actually fulfilled in his life. We will find they were all fulfilled in ways that were far beyond human orchestration.
Was Jesus just "checking boxes"?
First, it is important to establish that Jesus absolutely desired to do the will of his Father in heaven. One could argue that such a desire might lead to mechanically “checking boxes” to show his compliance. As we review these prophecies, we will see this objection become irrelevant.

Here is a small sampling of prophecies that Jesus was part of but could not control. First, we begin with his birth and childhood:

* He was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14), obviously not a self-directed event.
* He was born in Bethlehem Ephrathah, not Bethlehem of Galilee (Micah 5:2). This was fulfilled by way of Roman census laws.
* He was raised in Nazareth, fulfilling the theme of a humble Messiah (Isaiah 11:1–2).

As an adult, Jesus knew the Scriptures, but he still could not force their fulfillment.

* John the Baptist prepared the way for him (Isaiah 40:3–5). Jesus could not control John’s ministry.
* He entered Jerusalem triumphantly on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). While Jesus could request the colt, he could not force the crowd’s reaction.
* He was betrayed by a friend and for 30 silver pieces (Psalm 41:9, Zechariah 11:12–13).
* He was mocked at the crucifixion (Psalms 22:7–8).
* He was buried with the rich (Isaiah 53:9), and Joseph of Arimathea unknowingly fulfilled this prophecy.

Was Jesus' life scripted to fulfill prophecy?
The only logical conclusion to all of this is that Jesus’ life wasn’t scripted by manipulation, but rather fulfilled divine foresight through personal submission, love for the Father, and the actions of others guided by God’s plan.

The teaching Jesus gave to his apostles the night before his crucifixion about him being 'the way, the truth, and the life' was a profound foundation that described the path of every true Christian. Jesus as 'the way' opened up the opportunity for average, sinful individuals to become acceptable to God through the merit of Jesus’ sacrifice. He was and is the path we are to follow. As we walk this path, we can recognize Jesus as 'the truth' by accepting that his actions, teachings and example were always a direct reflection of the ultimate and pure truth that comes directly from the Father. Being on the path, following Jesus’ example and absorbing the truth of God’s words spoken through Jesus, we now can begin to open ourselves to understanding Jesus as 'the life.'

At the beginning of John 15, Jesus taught us about how he is 'the life' in a rich metaphor of spiritual vitality. He called himself 'the true vine,' labeled God as the “Vinedresser” and his disciples as "branches." These relationships highlight spiritual nourishment and fruitful discipleship rooted in obedience and love.
Here are just a few takeaways from this vital teaching:
• Jesus as the 'true vine' shows us that his disciples must remain connected to him in order to bear fruit. God nurtures and prunes these branches to increase spiritual growth.

• Any and all fruitfulness comes as a result of his disciples abiding in Christ, receiving cleansing through his words as well as yielding to the loving discipline of God.

• Selfless love is central to bearing fruit, and Jesus openly modeled this specific kind of love through crystal clear obedience to his Father’s will. His disciples were commanded to love one another sacrificially by following his example. His sacrifice IS life to us!
Lazarus, come forth!
As we look beyond this beautiful vine and branches teaching for just one other example of Jesus being 'the life,' the resurrection of Lazarus comes to mind. Lazarus had been dead for four days. As Jesus proclaimed himself to be 'the resurrection and the life,' he demonstrated God’s power through him to miraculously reverse death and even decay. This incredible event foreshadowed the final resurrection and restoration of all humanity.

Ultimately, Jesus is 'the life' because through him, death is overturned and eternal connection with the Father becomes possible. His life defines our purpose and our spiritual fruitfulness. Marked by love, it proves we truly "abide" in him.

It seems odd that in our present day of technology and knowledge, it is very difficult to determine the difference between truth and opinion. You’d think it would be just the opposite. Yet here we are, in an environment where we can’t even trust news reports to reveal the whole story. Two-thousand years ago, Jesus proclaimed he is “the way, the truth, and the life.” By being ‘the way,' he was telling us that finding a path towards God would come through knowing him. But what about Jesus being 'the truth'? In a practical sense, how do we begin to understand Jesus as not only teaching us truth but actually being it?

Jesus as the path, the way to God, opens up the realization that he is the complete embodiment of divine truth. He doesn’t merely teach truth—he IS truth, the full representation of God’s will and character. John 14 shows us how Jesus relayed God's words accurately and acted in perfect alignment with the Father's intent, similar to how an ambassador speaks only on behalf of their government.
Jesus being 'the truth'

* This was continually reflected by his relationship with the Father, which was always one of unity and submission.
* He always said what the Father instructed, did what pleased God, and reflected His care for humanity.
* Because of all these things, he was able to assure his disciples of ongoing peace and spiritual support, even amidst the confusion and grief before and after his crucifixion.

The spirit of truth
Jesus introduced the holy spirit as the “spirit of truth,” as it would be God’s direct influence sent to them after his departure. Through it, the disciples would remain anchored in truth and be set apart by it.

Speaking to the Pharisees in John 8, Jesus affirmed that true freedom could only come through knowing and continuing in his word because his words were God’s truth. Though he faced opposition and death, he boldly spoke truth, fulfilled prophecy and established the groundwork for God's coming kingdom.

Ultimately, Jesus as 'the truth' means he is the revealed reality of God's redemptive plan—faithful, clear and unwavering. His mission wasn’t to challenge earthly authority but to eventually establish divine order and justice. This truth sets his disciples free and invites them to reflect it in love, obedience and spiritual transformation.

On the night before his crucifixion—and just hours before he would begin a night of unjust treatment that would lead to humiliation, beatings and an eventual crucifixion—Jesus invested unhurried and precious hours with his disciples. His aim was to comfort them, as what they were about to witness would shake them all to their very core. Jesus was assuring them of his care for them and his profound loyalty to his Father, as this loyalty would ultimately bring redemption to them and to the whole world. Jesus’ simple statement of his being “the way, the truth, and the life” would be a key to open up their understanding of what their lives would need to look like.

To focus on the meaning of Jesus being 'the way,' we want to draw from Jesus’ final hours with the disciples the night before his crucifixion. This is not merely a directional statement; it’s a profound invitation to walk the path he walked.
Highlights

* 'The way' means more than a path. It reflects Jesus as the journey, the method AND the destination. The Greek word hodos implies a road, a manner of life and a progress toward purpose.
* Jesus’ way is sacrificial. Even in betrayal and suffering, he continually framed his mission as glorifying the Father.
* Jesus’ followers were not yet ready to follow him. Jesus introduced his commandment for them to love one another as he loved them. This command would become a foundational requirement before facing the weightier trials of faith.
* 'The way' would be through a narrow gate and on a difficult road: Matthew 7:13-14 illustrates that following Jesus requires purposeful sacrifice and perseverance. All who follow would need to develop spiritual surefootedness to walk this path.
* Jesus protects us and guides us, much like a shepherd guarding his sheep (John 10:7–9)

Exclusive access point
Because he is 'the way,' Jesus is not one of many options; rather, he is the exclusive access point to the Father. While not all follow this path now, his role as 'the way' extends ultimately to all creation (1 Corinthians 15:22). Those called now walk the narrow road, preparing to one day bless the rest.
It's personal!
Describing Jesus with this metaphor makes it personal. We are called not to merely admire the path Jesus walked, but to walk it ourselves, trusting that every step brings glory to the Father.

Jesus said, “Many are called but few are chosen” in Matthew 22:14. For many Christians, these words of Jesus should bring a pause and consider moment. What was Jesus saying here? If we believe “God is love,” and we believe Jesus came as our Savior, do we also believe that everyone outside of Christianity, outside of this call, is lost and gone forever? Is this what Jesus was saying? If so, then how does that square with God being love? Is Jesus saying God is love, but only for the few whom He chooses, and the rest of His human creation are essentially garbage? Isn’t that a massive contradiction? If we are willing to examine this statement by Jesus in the light of Scripture, we will find a completely different answer. What we will find is a logic and a harmony founded upon God’s love AND His justice.

This statement of Jesus appears at the end of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. To properly understand its meaning, we need to connect it with God's character of love and justice.
Reviewing the Abrahamic Covenant is a good place to start.
Initially, Israel was called to be the sole source of the “stars of heaven”—a spiritual seed that would bless the world. However, national rejection of Jesus meant they forfeited this opportunity. Still, they weren’t permanently cast off; they remain essential to God’s plan as the “sand of the seashore,” the natural seed who will bless the world on earth.

The parable illustrates God’s persistent calling to those who could become true disciples of Jesus:

* First invitation: Offered through Jesus’ ministry to Israel.
* Second: Extended at Pentecost by the apostles.
* Third: Went out to the Gentiles, beginning with Cornelius.

This teaches us that discipleship is not based on heritage but on being drawn by God. The “many” called spans time, culture and background, but the chosen are those who respond fully to the invitation.
This call involves great responsibility.
Discipleship requires self-denial, daily sacrifice, transformation and leaving behind worldly attachments. Like wedding guests required to wear the provided garment, those called must be “clothed” in Christ’s righteousness. Failing to do so leads to exclusion—not eternal torment, but the sorrow of lost opportunity.

Those who are chosen become part of a "royal priesthood" and "holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9), called to reflect God’s character and ultimately bless all mankind.

Importantly, the rest of humanity is not abandoned. Many scriptures point to a future restoration when all people will have opportunity for salvation. The current calling is simply the first phase of a broader redemptive plan that will ultimately fulfill God's promise to bless all the families of the earth.

Depression can be overwhelming. Even though many people suffer from it, and even though there are treatments and medications that can help it, depression can still be an insurmountable life obstacle for every individual who faces it. There is no easy answer and no miracle cure, so those of us who experience it are left with the sober reality of its potential lurking influence in our daily lives. So, what do we do? As Christians we are taught to have faith and rely on God’s peace. While this is sound and powerful advice, we need to find ways to deeply rely on our faith and to transform God’s peace into a tool of growth and healing. One way to work on this is to observe the struggles of a biblical hero of faith and step-by-step identify with their struggle and their journey towards a more God-driven life.
High highs and really low lows
After Elijah’s stunning victory over the prophets of Baal, he fell into despair. He was depressed. He had successfully demonstrated the supremacy of God as THE God, and yet Queen Jezebel promised to have him killed.

These events show us that even God’s mightiest servants can struggle deeply. As he ran and hid from Jezebel, he felt completely alone, ineffective and broken. His next journey showed us how feeling depressed can be overwhelming and lead us to

* internalization,
* isolation and
* insulation.

Rather than rebuke him, God gently met Elijah with rest, food and a repeated touch through an angel.

* What a reminder that divine care often comes in quiet, steady steps!
* Even though Elijah couldn’t immediately respond with renewed confidence, God remained present and patient.

To counter the internalization, isolation and insulation that depression can bring to us, Elijah’s experiences introduced three small steps toward godly peace:

* Acknowledge: Recognize that God’s presence—whether through Scripture, people or providence—is near, even if we don’t feel it.
* Apply: Take steps, however small, to act on that external input. Elijah walked 40 days to Mount Horeb, still burdened, but at least moving.
* Allow: Permit God’s truth and love to take root, even while feeling numb, broken or depressed.

Once Elijah arrived at Mount Horeb, God’s question, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” invited introspection, not condemnation. This question would open the door to Elijah being able to realize that he wasn’t alone. As a matter of fact, there were 7,000 others in Israel who were faithful to God!

The lesson for Elijah and for us is that depression doesn’t disqualify faith! On the other hand, God often calls those who struggle so His strength can shine through them.