Author: Bible Community Church

Spiritual Fellowship – Hebrews 3:13

Today, we’re looking at Hebrews 3:13. This passage is very important for the health and maturity of the church. We want knowledge and growth and so we read books but we must understand why we want to grow. The main reason to grow is to serve the church and we want to grow together. Without biblical fellowship, the church isn’t truly growing as a unit or a community.

Think about World War II veterans versus Vietnam veterans. World War II guys came back on ships for 30 days. During that journey, they had time to talk, share, and process the traumatizing experiences together in a community. They reflected on the war and therefore when they came back they could handle normal society better. On the other hand, Vietnam veterans came back quickly by plane, in a day or two. No time to talk, no fellowship. That’s why many struggled with PTSD, drugs, and homelessness. Even in a secular sense, fellowship is very important. Society has many problems because homes are broken and there’s no fellowship. If we want a strong, growing church, we must make a true community based on biblical fellowship.

Hebrews 3:13 says, “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin”. Fellowship cannot be done alone. We need community, a group doing it together. Even in Genesis 2:18, God said, “It’s not good for the man to be alone”. Man needs fellowship.

The book of Hebrews was written when Jewish believers faced huge persecution and were tempted to return to Judaism to escape. Some were getting ready to fall away, which is apostasy. This happens today too – backsliding, getting away from God, caring less. When we face challenges, feel isolated or forsaken, we might doubt if God is truly there.

The Holy Spirit gives us the solution in verse 13. Biblical fellowship is essential and vital. We cannot grow or mature alone. We need each other. Christian fellowship is the Holy Spirit’s solution to daily challenges. It is God’s wisdom.

True Christian fellowship is not just social activity, like movies, dinner, or funny stories. Our change is internal. Biblical fellowship is about sharing a common life with other believers, a life shared with God the Father and God the Son. It is a relationship, not an activity. It should stimulate us to share experientially. It’s a relationship and partnership with a common goal. Through the Holy Spirit, we have communion with each other.

How do we do this biblical fellowship? The text tells us to encourage one another. Encouragement means giving courage, increasing confidence, inspiring spirit and strength. It is literally “to call alongside,” to get close to someone to give help or aid. It enables a person to meet difficult situations with confidence. It is a command to do habitually and practically, daily. Paul encouraged disciples facing persecution in Acts 14:22, telling them to continue in faith because “through many afflictions we must enter the kingdom of God”. It is more than just saying “be good” or “do nice”.

How do we encourage each other?

  • Care one another: Consider their pain as yours. We are one body.
  • Honor each other: Not competing, being happy for others’ success, concerned for their betterment.
  • Reprove (correct) one another: Sometimes we need to guide them, say something right in truth and love. Humble correction is an external form of prayer. It is counseling, helping someone, not criticizing. We are not perfect and need correction.
  • Pray for each other: Biblical fellowship includes prayer. Prayer is a great investment. Praying together changes people.
  • Share God’s word: Christians are centered around God’s word. We share what God has done in our lives through the word.

How can we do this continually? It comes from understanding objective truth. First, we must realize true faith. We must ask if we are true Christians. True fellowship only happens between true believers. Ask yourself if you are dependent on the Spirit, if you are in Christ, if you have fellowship with God. Paul said, “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. And the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20). For true Christians, Jesus is second to none. We are gaining Christ daily. Only true Christians can have this kind of fellowship.

Second, we must have communion with God. This is personal but very important. It means starting and closing the day with the Lord. Christian life is an all-day affair. Christ and His word must dominate everything we care about. This communion involves meditating on God’s word all the time. Meditating on God’s word is essential for grace and growth. We meditate to find God, our sin, the solution, application, and obedience. As you meditate, prayer naturally follows. It is also about living before God, acting as if always under His eye. At the end of the day, reflect on whether you gained something or bore fruit. Close the day with thankfulness. God’s faithfulness brings peace, hope, and joy.

Why is biblical fellowship so essential? Because we only have today. “As long as it is called today”. Fellowship is not for tomorrow. The Holy Spirit might prompt you to call or text someone to encourage them. Share what God has done. We have many things to share, give, and care for one another. The urgency is to prevent our hearts from being hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. Sin is deceitful, like sugar – we know it is harmful, but we love it.

Being alone is a sign of danger, a peril. Anyone alone in scripture tends to commit sin. Look at Peter; he denied Jesus three times when he was alone in the high priest’s room (John 18:16). When you get prideful, thinking you know something, you want to be alone; you talk but do not listen. Biblical fellowship helps balance each other, giving and taking, nourishing and being nourished. Without it, there is no hope for the future.

Biblical fellowship means watching out for someone’s back, helping, pushing, walking together. David sinned when he was alone, but he was restored with Nathan. This is what Christian fellowship is. We are both David and Nathan, needing each other and helping one another in fellowship, so that the church will grow healthy and strong in the Lord.

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What a Precious Salvation – Luke 13:34-35

In today’s text, salvation is shown as the most valuable gift bestowed by God, emphasizing its rarity and significance. Despite being widely offered, Scripture underscores that only a few will ultimately be saved, pointing to the gravity of embracing this divine gift with one’s entire being. The author frames salvation not as a peripheral spiritual idea, but as the sole matter of importance at the time of death, one that determines entry into the eternal kingdom of God.

One of the primary reasons for salvation’s value is its origin in the character of God, who acts out of love, grace, kindness, and compassion. The lament over Jerusalem in verse 34 illustrates how God’s offer of salvation was tragically rejected by the very people He longed to save. Though Jerusalem was chosen by God and honored as the dwelling place of His temple, its history of killing prophets reflects a persistent rejection of His messengers. Still, Jesus’ sorrow over the city signifies God’s deep compassion, and His determination to offer salvation not just to Jerusalem, but to the entire world.

Furthermore, salvation is seen as God’s ongoing mission, demonstrating His persistent effort to reach humanity. The phrase “how often” reveals His tireless pursuit of sinners, highlighting that God never ceases in His redemptive work. Even after Christ’s resurrection, the Spirit continued spreading salvation through the early Church and beyond, ensuring that the gospel would reach generation after generation. This unrelenting divine initiative is what ultimately enables believers to hear, respond to, and accept the message of salvation.

The imagery of God gathering His people like a hen gathers her chicks reveals both His protective nature and His desire to draw humanity into intimate relationship. Salvation is not simply about deliverance from sin, but about being drawn near to God. In doing so, God transforms sinners not only into citizens of His kingdom, but into priests—representatives of His presence and truth in the world. This divine gathering reflects not only justice but a nurturing heart, echoing maternal tenderness found in Scripture.

However, the passage also confronts the tragic reality of human rejection of salvation. Though God offers numerous opportunities for redemption, sinners often resist it, not on intellectual or emotional grounds, but because of a willful preference for sin. According to the author, the human condition, being spiritually dead, naturally gravitates away from God. Thus, the refusal of salvation is not due to God’s failure to offer it, but the sinner’s stubborn desire to remain apart from Him.

The stakes of rejecting salvation are portrayed as ultimate and irreversible. The Bible offers vivid imagery of hell and eternal separation from God, reinforcing the urgency of embracing salvation in this life. Once a soul has passed into eternity without Christ, there remains no further opportunity for redemption. This understanding compels believers to proclaim the gospel boldly, while there is still time for others to respond.

Salvation’s worth is also reflected in the eternal hope it offers believers. In contrast to the despair of judgment, salvation brings a lasting joy rooted in the presence of God. Christ Himself modeled this hope during His suffering, enduring the cross for the joy set before Him. The Christian’s hope, then, is not based on circumstances, but on the future promise of glory, a hope that sustains believers through trials and gives them a vision of heaven even amid life’s darkest moments.

In conclusion, the passage encourages believers to treat salvation with reverence and seriousness, understanding its divine origin, enduring hope, and eternal consequences. It calls for a life marked by “fear and trembling,” not out of dread, but in recognition of the immense gift that salvation is. More than anything else, salvation is presented as the greatest treasure one can possess, both now and forever.

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The Evidence and Impact of Jesus’ Resurrection – Acts 25:18-19

Traditionally, we celebrate two major Christian events every year: Christmas and Easter. Easter is all about Jesus passing over from death to life. While many people believe in these events, there are always those who doubt, attacking Jesus’ birth and especially His resurrection. They try to say it’s just like old myths, like Horus and Isis or the Indian Krishna, who supposedly died and rose.However, when you really look at it with careful consideration, it’s completely different. These myths lack the message of hope that we find in Jesus’ resurrection. And did those mythological figures visit Jerusalem and die there? No! Jesus himself said in Luke 13:33 that a prophet must perish in Jerusalem. The Messiah had to die and be crucified there. These other stories don’t fit that historical reality. And it wasn’t just because people back then were dumb or gullible. These other mythologies weren’t powerful enough to change the world like Jesus’ resurrection. People are drawn to Christ, their lives are changed, and they have hope beyond death because of it.

Jesus’ resurrection is unique. Even within Judaism at the time, resurrection was seen as a group event at the end of the world, not a single Messiah dying and rising. And while Romans believed in a spiritual resurrection, Jesus’ resurrection was bodily. He ate with His disciples, cooked for them and showed Himself for 40 days. It was a physical resurrection. And we believers expect the same for ourselves someday.

Now, look at Apostle Paul in Acts 25:18-19. His Jewish accusers couldn’t bring charges of evil deeds. Instead, it was about disagreements in their own religion and this Jesus, “a dead man whom Paul asserted to be alive”. His core message was “Jesus is risen!”. That’s why he was arrested, that’s why he was going to Rome, and that’s why he would eventually be executed.

What evidence did Apostle Paul have? And how did this resurrection shape his life? These are key questions. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is everything for Christians. If it truly happened, if that tomb was really empty, then it changes everything about how we live and think. Jesus becoming the first fruit is our pattern for future resurrection. Without the resurrection, there is no hope at all.

Imagine if Jesus never rose. The gospel would be empty words, God’s promises unsustainable, our faith useless, and we would still be lost in our sins. As 1 Corinthians 15:14 says, “if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain”. Without the resurrection, we might as well just live for today because tomorrow we die. In fact, without the resurrection, Christians would be the most pathetic people, wasting their lives.

But the resurrection is a divine vindication, affirmation, and validation. Without Easter, the cross means nothing; Jesus’ death would just be another death. So what is the evidence Jesus rose? Some point to the empty tomb and the gospel accounts, which contain historical facts. Paul’s conversion itself is powerful evidence. And the birth of the church on Pentecost is another amazing sign. But for me, the best evidence is the eyewitness accounts. Paul was one of many who saw the risen Lord.

Consider the women at the tomb. At least five women – Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Salome, Joanna, and another – saw the risen Lord and talked to Him. In the first century, women’s testimony wasn’t considered trustworthy. Yet, the Bible records their account. This points to its truthfulness. The Gospel of Peter, a later writing, tries to say male Jewish officers were the first witnesses, precisely because they knew women’s accounts weren’t valued. This is why it’s not part of the Bible and not a true gospel.

Richard Bauckham, a great theologian, highlights how these women saw Jesus die, saw where He was laid, saw the empty tomb, saw the rolled-away stone, and saw the angel. Even Bart Ehrman, an agnostic historian, is struck by the consistency in the independent accounts placing Mary Magdalene at the cross and the tomb. He admits it seems likely that the empty tomb tradition is rooted in history.

And Apostle Paul himself? He saw Jesus. In 1 Corinthians 15:8-9, he says he was like one untimely born, even considering himself the least of the apostles because he persecuted the church. He hated Christians, plotted to kill them, including Stephen. But Jesus showed him mercy through the resurrection.

Then there were James, Jesus’ half-brother who was a skeptic, and Peter (Cephas) – they also saw Jesus after His resurrection and became pillars of the early church. Apostle Paul, James, and Peter all have one thing in common: they were martyred for their belief in Jesus’ resurrection. They never recanted, even until death. People die for what they believe is true, but no one dies for a lie. These men willingly faced death for their testimony of the resurrected Christ.

Think about the reaction of the chief priests and Pharisees. They remembered Jesus saying He would rise after three days, and they were afraid His disciples would steal the body and claim resurrection, making the “last deception worse than the first”. If Jesus hadn’t risen, wouldn’t they have just produced His body? The tomb was empty. In the book of Acts, the apostles kept preaching Jesus’ resurrection, and the high priests never refuted it by showing a body.

Chuck Colson explains the truthfulness of the resurrection through the Watergate cover-up which he was a part of. Twelve of the most powerful men couldn’t maintain a lie to protect the President for more than three weeks. How could twelve ordinary men 2,000 years ago consistently maintain a lie about something they knew was false, even to the point of death? They couldn’t have been telling anything but the truth. Apostle Peter even asked to be crucified upside down.

Why? Because the resurrection defeats and destroys sin. Sin brings death, but the resurrection brings life. Because of the resurrection, we are personally transformed. Without it, the cross is meaningless. But the resurrection is a divine victory over sin and death. Even Paul, who was a blasphemer worthy of death, found forgiveness and purpose because of the risen Lord. The resurrection conquered Satan.

Five points on Jesus’ resurrection:

  • Christ alone saves. No other religious leader has risen from the grave.
  • It confirms the veracity of God’s Word. The Old Testament prophesied the Messiah’s death and resurrection. Scripture is truth.
  • The resurrection shows that Jesus is God. When Peter preached on Pentecost, he declared that God had made Jesus both Lord and Christ because He was resurrected.
  • The true church is built by the risen Lord. Jesus promised, “I will build my church”. He is the head of the church. The church endures because He lives.
  • The resurrection empowers us to serve the Lord. Paul, by the grace of the risen Lord, was transformed from a persecutor to an apostle who labored tirelessly. Knowing the risen Lord impacts how we serve, reaching out to the lost. Therefore, we should be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing our labor is not in vain.

His resurrection is everything. It’s our foundation and our direction. Like Apostle Paul, we should forget what lies behind and press on toward the goal. At the end of his life, Apostle Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing”. (2 Timothy 4:7-8) His whole life was shaped, driven, and governed by the resurrection. May we all realize that Jesus is truly risen, not just in theory but in practice, impacting us deeply now and giving us hope for the future.

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You Didn’t Want It – Luke 13:31-35

The mistrust that led to Jesus’ eventual crucifixion stemmed from a combination of political, religious, and spiritual misunderstandings. Among the groups most resistant to Jesus were the Pharisees and Herod Antipas. Although the Pharisees warned Jesus that Herod sought to kill him, their motives were questionable. Today’s text depicts the Pharisees as hypocrites who, despite pretending concern, rejected Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus responds by affirming that his journey and mission are governed not by human threats, but by divine purpose and timing.

Herod Antipas’s hostility toward Jesus may have been motivated by jealousy or political fear. As Jesus gained popularity, Herod may have perceived him as a threat to his influence. Additionally, Jesus’ teachings and actions challenged the societal order and religious establishment, possibly leading Herod to believe that Jesus was a destabilizing force. These tensions contributed to a growing desire among the ruling class to eliminate Jesus as a perceived threat.

In response to the Pharisees’ warning, Jesus refers to Herod as a “fox,” a term indicating cunning and insignificance in comparison to divine authority. This remark underscores the disparity between Herod’s limited earthly power and Jesus’ supreme spiritual authority. Jesus asserts his control over all realms—spiritual, earthly, and cosmic—making it clear that human leaders like Herod cannot thwart God’s plan.

Jesus proclaims his authority over the spiritual realm by referencing his ability to cast out demons. This ability highlights his divine power, as demons are invisible, spiritual beings that only God can command. Numerous New Testament accounts, including Mark 5:4, illustrate this authority. The Pharisees and Herod lacked the spiritual insight necessary to recognize Jesus’ divine identity, blinded instead by worldly desires and ambitions.

In addition to spiritual authority, Jesus rules over the earthly domain. Colossians 1:16-17 speaks of his sovereignty over all creation. His power to heal and perform miracles affirms that he governs life and death itself. Jesus provides meaning and coherence to existence, and his dominion over earthly events ensures that those who serve him in this life will also be rewarded in the next.

Jesus’ control extends to the cosmic level. He willingly submitted to the Father’s plan, including his death and resurrection in Jerusalem. Herod held no real power over Jesus’ fate; rather, Jesus orchestrated his own suffering as part of God’s redemptive plan. His death was not a defeat but a divine victory, and only through belief in the gospel can sinners be saved. His power transcends all earthly and spiritual barriers.

Despite the clarity of Jesus’ identity and work, many—both then and now—fail to acknowledge him as Lord and Savior. This failure often stems from self-will and a preference for worldly pleasures over spiritual truth. The Pharisees and Herod represent those who reject Christ not due to ignorance alone but due to hardened hearts and misplaced priorities. The same danger persists for those who resist surrendering their lives to Christ.

Ultimately, Jesus holds dominion over all existence. He alone offers both physical life and eternal salvation to those who repent and believe in his redemptive work. His death and resurrection removed condemnation for believers and established a path to eternal life. Rejecting him means remaining in spiritual darkness, but accepting him brings freedom and eternal hope through the perfection of his saving work.

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A Sure Sign of True Salvation – Luke 13:22-24

One of the things we gain from the Bible is the ability to see that God is personal—He communicates with us and reveals Himself to us. The Bible is deeply intellectual, and through it, we are able to learn who God is. Often in Scripture, God—or someone else—asks a question and then answers it. For example, in Matthew 16:15–16, Jesus asks, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus frequently responded to questions or accusations from His enemies with questions of His own.

In today’s passage, we’re presented with a great question—one that comes from a disciple who is genuinely curious about salvation and desires to be saved himself: “Lord, are there just a few who are being saved?” Or, put another way: How many will be saved? How hard is it to be saved?

In Jesus’ day, there was a common belief that when the Messiah came, all Jews would be saved simply based on their ancestry. It was a form of spiritual universalism. That same attitude exists today—many people assume they’re saved simply because they grew up in church, were raised in a Christian home, or live a generally moral life. But we must ask ourselves: Are we saved? How many of us are actually saved?

When we look at history, the numbers appear to be few. In Noah’s day, only eight people were saved from the flood. In Sodom and Gomorrah, only Lot and his family escaped. Out of all his family and community, Abraham alone was called out by God. In Romans 9:6–8, Paul reminds us that not all physical descendants of Israel are truly Israel. Only a remnant will be saved. Jesus calls His followers a “little flock.” R.C. Sproul and Leonard Ravenhill have observed that many who profess faith are not actually saved.

At the time of this question, Jesus was traveling from city to village—from large crowds to small little villages. He was spreading the gospel wherever He could, no matter how few people were there, He traveled His own way to Jerusalem, the place where He would be crucified. He was proclaiming the gospel while fulfilling it.

It was on the way when Jesus was asked, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” Jesus doesn’t directly answer how many will be saved or the steps to be saved. Instead, He gives a command: “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” (Luke 13:24) This is not how to be saved but how to know who are saved.

The key word in Jesus’ response is not narrow door—it’s strive. Your attitude and effort determine which door you will enter. Without striving, you will naturally drift toward the wide and easy door. So the question becomes: Are you striving? What is Striving?

To strive means to devote serious energy or effort, to struggle, to labor. The language carries the idea of agonizing. Christians are called to strive from the beginning and continue striving throughout life. The Apostle Paul compares it to running a race for a prize—requiring great self-control and discipline. Jacob wrestled with God at the river Jabbok until he received a blessing. Jesus agonized on the cross until He declared, “It is finished.” Christians strive. We cannot lose this intention.

What do we strive For? This striving is not for our salvation, as if we could earn it. Salvation is by grace through faith. But we strive because we are saved. We pursue a goal.

  1. Strive Against Sin and For Repentance – We sin every day, so we must repent every day. Striving means hating sin, fighting it without compromise, even at great personal cost.
    • Hebrews 12:4: “In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.”
    • Jesus said it is better to lose an eye or a hand than to be thrown into hell. That’s how seriously we are to fight sin.
  2. Strive for God’s Glory – “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) Whatever happens—loss or gain, health or sickness—we glorify God. The apostles sang hymns in prison. We honor God in all things because He is always present and worthy.
  3. Strive to Seek God’s Kingdom – Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and He commands us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. We are not just citizens—we are servants and heirs. This kingdom is our inheritance, our future home, and our greatest treasure.
  4. Strive to Pray – Prayer is not natural, it requires discipline. In Colossians 4:12: Epaphras was one who “struggled in prayer” for others.Prayer is dependence, just as a slave cannot do anything without the command of their master. It is humility. It is crying out for help even when we are weak. (Psalm 107:6). We are the byproduct of our prayers. God works through prayer. His promises are available to us in prayer. Strive to pray.
  5. Strive to Preach the Gospel – Why did God choose and save us? In heaven, we will still worship and fellowship. But evangelism is for now. It’s part of our mission on earth. We often fail to evangelize because we fear man and desire his approval. But Jesus strived to share the gospel, and so must we.

How Do We Strive?

  • Self-Denial – Matthew 16:24: “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” George Müller said he had to die to himself, to the world, and to the opinions of others. In Matthew 16:22, Peter tried to rebuke Jesus because of his own desires and ideas. But self-denial is the way of Jesus.
  • Be Born Again – Self-denial is impossible unless we are born again. We cannot truly strive unless we have new life. “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”
  • Be Filled with the Holy Spirit – 2 Thessalonians 2:13 says we are saved through sanctification by the Spirit. The Holy Spirit makes Jesus real to us. He turns knowledge into obedience and empowers us to reveal Jesus to the world. (Acts 4:13)
  • Have Real Saving Faith – We are saved by faith alone. But real faith always strives. It doesn’t need anything else—money, comfort, blessings—because Jesus is the treasure. True faith is more precious than diamonds. Don’t be like the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:20, who walked away from salvation for his wealth. Strive to have the kind of faith that sees Jesus as the only treasure worth having.

What Hinders Our Striving? Worldliness. 1 John 2:16 warns that if we live by the world’s values, we are not striving. You can’t serve two masters. Striving for heaven and the world leads to ruin.

What Is the Narrow Door? The narrow door is difficult. Don’t believe the lie that the Christian life is easy. Jesus said we must count the cost. From the very beginning, the path of following Jesus is a path of the cross. The narrow door also means suffering. Jesus, though perfect, suffered. We should expect the same. Acts 14:22: “Through many afflictions we must enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus’ whole life was one of striving and suffering. His purpose was to suffer and die for the lost. He is the door of the sheep. Matthew 11:12: “From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.” This is the holy war. Those who strive against sin and for righteousness will take the kingdom.

Are You Striving? This is not a call to works-based righteousness. It is a call to take your salvation seriously. To examine yourself. To press on. To run the race with endurance. Jesus said, “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” Will you strive? Will you repent daily, glorify God in all things, seek His kingdom, pray persistently, and proclaim His gospel? Will you take up your cross and follow Him? The door is narrow. The way is hard. But if you strive then you have true salvation in Jesus Christ and eternal life.

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The Kingdom of God, Part 2 – Luke 13:20-21

The message of the kingdom of God is of utmost importance to believers, yet the church can sometimes fail to preserve its passion and urgency. While the church is meant to be a vessel for spreading this message, it is not immune to shortcomings. At times, the way the kingdom message is communicated can become weakened or even distorted, diminishing its impact on those who hear it.

Jesus provides a powerful metaphor for the kingdom of God in Luke 13:20-21, comparing it to “leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.” This analogy would have been well understood by His audience. The mention of “three pecks of flour” held deep significance, as it symbolized devotion to God, hospitality toward others, and fellowship with God. These three elements formed the foundation of a faithful life during that time.

In this passage, the woman represents the church, which serves as God’s instrument for drawing people into fellowship with Him. The imagery aligns with the biblical portrayal of the church as the bride of Christ, emphasizing a nurturing and caring role. However, the introduction of leaven into the flour conveys a more complex message. Leaven, or yeast, is a fermenting agent that spreads throughout the dough, changing its composition. While yeast is sometimes associated with growth and transformation, in biblical contexts, it often symbolizes corruption and impurity.

The function of leaven is to permeate and transform the entire lump of dough, which in many biblical passages is used as an illustration of sin. For instance, 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 describes leavened bread as representing the old sinful nature. The idea that the woman in Jesus’ parable covertly places yeast into the flour suggests a warning about how the kingdom message can become tainted. Similarly, in Old Testament times, leaven was strictly forbidden in grain offerings to God (Leviticus 2:11), reinforcing the idea that God’s people were to remain spiritually pure and untainted by corruption.

For the church to fulfill its divine purpose, it must remain pure and unblemished by outside influences. The integrity of the kingdom message depends on the holiness of those who proclaim it. If the church allows itself to be compromised, the message can become distorted, leading people away from the truth rather than toward it. Only those who truly believe in the gospel and live according to its principles should be entrusted with delivering its message. The church must be vigilant in maintaining its faithfulness to God’s calling, ensuring that its teachings remain uncorrupted.

One of the key threats to the church’s purity is the leaven of hypocrisy. Jesus warned His disciples to “beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy” (Luke 12:1). Hypocrisy occurs when a person’s outward appearance of righteousness does not align with their inward reality. It is a dangerous influence that can lead even strong believers astray, as seen in Galatians 2:13. Christians must actively reject hypocrisy, as it belongs to the former sinful self (1 Peter 2:1). The only way to avoid this danger is through a genuine pursuit of Christ. By continually seeking to know and follow Him, believers can ensure that their faith is authentic and not merely for show.

Another form of corruption that threatens the church is the leaven of rationalism. The Sadducees exemplified this mindset, as they prioritized political influence over spiritual truth and denied the supernatural aspects of faith. Rationalism, which elevates human reasoning above divine revelation, weakens the church’s dependence on God. Jesus emphasized the necessity of faith and prayer, stating that those who lack them have little faith (Matthew 16:8). To guard against rationalism, believers must rely on God’s wisdom, which grants them perseverance and joy even in the face of trials (James 1:2).

Additionally, the church must be wary of the leaven of materialism. An excessive focus on wealth and worldly success reveals a heart that is dissatisfied with God. From the early church onward, many congregations have struggled with financial hardship, yet their faith remained strong. The danger of materialism is that it can lead to lukewarm faith, where believers become complacent and spiritually stagnant. A church that prioritizes material wealth over spiritual devotion risks secularization and idolatry, losing sight of its true mission.

Jesus’ words in Luke 13:21 serve as a sobering warning: “until it was all leavened.” This phrase suggests that corruption will continue to spread unless the church repents. However, there is hope in repentance. When believers turn back to God and seek renewal, He restores them and purifies His church. Only those who are truly repentant can be used by God to advance His kingdom. Through humility, faith, and commitment to the truth, the church can resist the corrupting influences of hypocrisy, rationalism, and materialism, ensuring that the message of the kingdom remains pure and powerful.

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The Kingdom of God – Luke 13:18-19

The Kingdom of God was the central theme of Jesus’ ministry (Luke 4:43). It is not a fictional or mythical concept like Atlantis but a reality that Jesus came to reveal. The kingdom is where Jesus reigns, and as believers, we are already part of it. However, there are common misunderstandings about the Kingdom of God that must be clarified to fully grasp its significance.

Clarifying Misunderstandings Some believe the Kingdom of God is only spiritual, but Jesus made it clear that it is both spiritual and earthly (Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17). Others think the kingdom is solely an earthly rule, but Colossians 1:20 teaches that all things, in heaven and on earth, have been reconciled to Christ. Some equate the kingdom with the church, but while the church belongs to the kingdom, it is its vanguard, proclaiming the way to enter (Matthew 16:18-19).

The Kingdom: Already, But Not Yet The Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future promise. When Jesus came, the kingdom was inaugurated (Matthew 2:11, Luke 17:21). The disciples expected its full establishment (Acts 1:6), but it will only be completed at Jesus’ second coming when He defeats all evil and reigns forever (Revelation 19:11-15). Just as believers are justified now but await glorification, the kingdom is promised but not yet fully realized.

The Power of the Kingdom Jesus illustrated the kingdom’s power by healing a woman bound by Satan (Luke 13:16). This was a demonstration of the kingdom’s victory over darkness. Today, many declare “Christ is King” in response to political turmoil, but we must understand His reign biblically (John 18:36-37). His kingdom is not of this world, yet it is stronger than any earthly power (Daniel 2:33). Jesus is the rock that crushes all human empires.

Five Truths About the Kingdom that encourage and strengthen us

  1. Powerful in All Circumstances The kingdom may seem small, like a mustard seed, but it has world-changing power (Luke 13:18-19). Jesus, a humble man who was crucified, overturned the Roman Empire in just a few centuries. Likewise, small beginnings—like a few missionaries in India—can transform entire nations.
  2. Supernaturally Sustained The kingdom’s growth is not by human effort but by Jesus, the divine farmer who personally tends to His people (Luke 13:8, Philippians 1:6). He nourishes, prunes, and strengthens His kingdom, ensuring that it flourishes in His perfect timing. If God is for us, no one can stand against us (Romans 8:31). We must ask ourselves: Do we truly know Him, and do we walk daily in His power, allowing Him to sustain and grow us?
  3. Planted in Good Soil The kingdom is sown in God’s garden, intentionally placed in the best conditions for growth (Luke 8:5, Matthew 13:23). Unlike seeds scattered on rocky ground or among thorns, we are planted in the rich soil of God’s providence and care. No trial, hardship, or struggle occurs outside of His sovereign will. We are never abandoned, even in difficult seasons. His love is steadfast and unwavering, embracing us with an undivided heart.
  4. Marked by Growth and Repentance just as a seed must grow to maturity, so must we as believers. Growth in the kingdom of God is not optional—it is essential. True repentance is the first step, leading to faith and transformation (Mark 1:15). It is not merely a momentary decision but an ongoing, lifelong turning toward Christ. Nicodemus, who initially came to Jesus in secret, was later emboldened to publicly honor Him (John 3:3, John 19:39). Are we likewise growing in our faith? Are we actively striving to enter the narrow gate (Luke 13:23-24), seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all else (Matthew 6:33)?
  5. A Future of Blessing The kingdom is vibrant, a place of joy and peace. The birds resting in the mustard tree represent God’s blessing (Matthew 5:3,10). Revelation gives us a vision of a future kingdom without sorrow, only eternal joy (Revelation 21:2,4). This is our hope and our destiny.

The Kingdom of God is a present and future reality, full of power, promise, and transformation. Though it is not yet fully established, we experience its influence daily. It is powerful and transformational because Jesus is King. As we wait for its full realization, let us live as kingdom people—seeking, growing, and proclaiming Christ’s reign until He comes again. Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20).

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Proper Response to Christian Suffering – 1 Peter 4:12-14

The apostle Peter wrote his letter around A.D. 64–65 during the reign of Emperor Nero, addressing Christians in northern modern-day Turkey. This was a time of intense persecution following the Great Fire of Rome, an event that devastated much of the city. Nero, needing a scapegoat to divert blame from himself, falsely accused Christians, leading to brutal oppression. Already marginalized by Roman society, Christians faced extreme violence, including torture and executions, which created an atmosphere of fear and suffering among believers.

In response to these challenges, Peter sought to encourage Christians by reminding them that they were not truly citizens of this world but sojourners whose ultimate home was in heaven. His letter emphasized that suffering was not meaningless but part of the Christian journey. Just as Christ endured suffering before entering into glory, so too must His followers. Peter urged believers to remain steadfast in faith, trusting that their trials would lead to eternal rewards.

Peter also emphasized that suffering should not come as a surprise to believers but should be expected. He outlined three reasons why suffering is essential in a Christian’s life: it refines and strengthens faith, distinguishes genuine believers from those whose faith is weak, and affirms that Christians do not belong to this world. He made a clear distinction between suffering for Christ and suffering due to poor decisions or ordinary hardships, urging believers to recognize persecution as a direct result of their faithfulness to God.

Furthermore, Peter explained that suffering serves as a test of faith, much like fire refines gold by removing impurities. Through trials, believers are made spiritually stronger and more reliant on God. Suffering also exposes those who only follow Christ superficially, as many fall away when faith requires endurance. Those who persevere through hardships demonstrate a deep and genuine commitment to Christ, proving that their faith is authentic and preparing them for the salvation of their souls.

Rather than being discouraged by suffering, Peter encouraged believers to rejoice in it, as suffering for Christ is a sign of faithfulness. He reminded them that Jesus also endured persecution and was ultimately glorified. Those who suffer for righteousness’ sake will share in Christ’s glory and receive great rewards in heaven. The greater the suffering for Christ, the greater the heavenly joy, reinforcing the idea that trials on earth have an eternal purpose.

Peter also urged Christians to welcome suffering, as it is evidence of God’s presence in their lives. When believers are persecuted for their faith, it confirms that the Spirit of God is with them. He pointed to biblical examples such as Stephen and the apostles, whose suffering was a testament to their faith and the power of God working through them. Suffering for Christ should not be seen as shameful but as an honor, reflecting the presence of God’s Spirit upon the believer.

Christians are called to live boldly, knowing that suffering is an inevitable part of their commitment to Christ. Peter warned that suffering should not lead to fear or discouragement but should be embraced as a mark of true discipleship. He encouraged believers to stand firm in their faith, trusting that any earthly suffering is temporary compared to the eternal rewards that await them. Obedience to Christ may come at a cost, but it is a cost worth paying.

Ultimately, Peter’s message is one of endurance and faithfulness. Christians should not be surprised by suffering but should expect it, rejoice in it, and welcome it as evidence of God’s work in their lives. Rather than seeking comfort in the world, believers should focus on glorifying Christ through their trials. True faith does not seek suffering for its own sake, but when suffering comes, it should be embraced with the confidence that it is shaping believers for eternal glory.

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An Epilogue to Repentance – Luke 13:10-17

Many sermons in this passage focus on the Sabbath, Jesus’ mercy, and His courage in healing a crippled woman. However, Luke is the only Gospel writer who includes this account, and he places it in the larger context of repentance. Chapter 13 begins and ends with Jesus calling for the repentance of Israel. This miracle is a picture of salvation through repentance.

The Hopeless Condition of Humanity

Jesus often stirred controversy on the Sabbath, and this instance was no exception. A woman who had been crippled for eighteen years bent double and unable to straighten herself, was in the synagogue. In ancient Israel, women had no rights or status. So this condition must have seemed hopeless and she had no power to help herself. Even worse, her affliction was caused by a spirit.

Her condition is a picture of all humanity— crippled by sin and incapable of saving ourselves. We are totally depraved, spiritually powerless, and utterly lost apart from God. Salvation is not just difficult; it is impossible without divine intervention. If we truly grasped the weight of our sin and the miracle of salvation, we would treasure it above all else.

Jesus, the Only Savior

Why is Jesus the only one who can save? Because He is compassionate. He saw this woman, called her, and healed her—despite the fact that it was the Sabbath and would provoke opposition. Jesus is not a distant theologian who merely teaches doctrine; He is actively involved in the lives of those who need Him. Whenever and wherever Jesus is ready to help you. Even today, He calls us through the gospel, both outwardly by preaching and inwardly by the Holy Spirit (Romans 10:7). This calling leads to repentance and salvation.

When Jesus calls, He also transforms. As soon as He touched the woman, she was made whole—standing upright like a normal person. This is the work of salvation: restoring us to our created purpose and bringing us into the right relationship with God. The treasure of true salvation is not found in earthly riches but in the presence of Jesus Himself.

Jesus, the Only Truth

After healing the woman, Jesus exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. The Sabbath had become a tool for oppression rather than rest. The synagogue official was outraged, not because of righteousness, but because Jesus had lightly placed His hands on this woman—while they would handle animals without a second thought. Their religion was hollow, filled with rules but devoid of love. They were hypocrites pretending to care about righteousness while inside they were greedy and oppressive. They cared more for their animals than this poor woman in need.

False religion twists God’s commands into burdens, focusing on outward appearance while remaining spiritually dead inside (Matthew 15:4-7). But Jesus is the truth. He didn’t come to enslave us with man-made traditions but to set us free.

Jesus, the Only Life

Jesus didn’t just heal the woman physically—He gave her a new spiritual life. He offers eternal life instead of eternal damnation. Calling her a “daughter of Abraham” was referring to her faith. She had repented and been restored to God. The kingdom of God belongs to those who repent, not the self-righteous who cling to empty religion.

Repentance is a full surrender to Jesus. It is not partial, not “half me and half Jesus.” True repentance is a total transformation—a new life in Christ. And just like this woman, the repentant are called children of God, heirs of His promises.

The Joy of Salvation

Luke 13:17 tells us that the people rejoiced over all the glorious things Jesus was doing. Salvation brings joy—because we are no longer bound by sin but are made children of God. And not only do we rejoice in Him, but He rejoices over us (Isaiah 44:23).

If you are redeemed, then your life should reflect that joy. If you are still lost, then there is no reason for joy—only urgency to repent and be saved. Repentance is the work of Christ, and it bears the fruit of joy. Let’s treasure our salvation, fully and joyfully, knowing that in Christ, we have everything.

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The Lord’s Most Heartfelt Plea, Part 2 – Luke 13:6-9

The previous context emphasizes the necessity of repentance as the foundation of a true Christian life. It asserts that spiritual life begins when one turns to Christ with a repentant heart. True repentance leads to transformation, evidenced by a changed heart that loves God and bears fruit. The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is a key indication of genuine repentance. A self-examined life, marked by sorrow over sin and continual striving for righteousness, is essential. Without repentance, one cannot live an authentic Christian life.

Jesus’ teachings emphasize that repentance must happen immediately, leaving no room for complacency. The passage warns that worldly success does not negate the need for a repentant heart. The urgency of repentance is underscored because failing to bear fruit invites divine judgment. The unrepentant, fruitless tree symbolizes those who hear God’s Word but refuse to change. Eventually, such trees will be cut down, illustrating the finality of God’s judgment against those who reject His call to repentance.

The metaphor of the vineyard keeper presents Jesus as the intercessor between humanity and God’s judgment. Although God’s verdict is inevitable, Christ pleads for sinners to have one last opportunity to repent. However, this grace is not indefinite; it is a final chance rather than an extension of time. Scripture underscores that repentance is only possible in this life. In the afterlife, there is no second opportunity—only divine judgment remains.

The concept of “borrowed time” illustrates God’s sovereignty over life. The vineyard keeper’s request for an extra year symbolizes God’s patience, but it also highlights that time is fleeting. People cannot control when they will face divine judgment, reinforcing the urgency of repentance. Since the future is uncertain, believers must not delay in turning to God. How one responds to God’s call in this lifetime determines their eternal fate.

Jesus’ sacrifice is presented as the means of repentance and salvation. Christ’s atonement on the cross makes reconciliation with God possible, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption. Those who genuinely repent will devote themselves to God, as demonstrated by their actions. Biblical examples emphasize that true faith produces lasting change. Repentance is not a one-time act but a continuous process of transformation and devotion.

A true Christian is identified by a life that reflects Christ. Scripture urges believers to examine themselves regularly to ensure their faith is genuine. A heart that continually seeks repentance and growth in Christ bears evidence of true conversion. Those who abide in Jesus will walk as He walked, meaning they will live in obedience, humility, and love. This self-examination is essential for spiritual growth and assurance of salvation.

The passage warns against wasting time in spiritual complacency. True repentance results in divine forgiveness, as God promises to cleanse those who confess their sins. However, those who refuse to repent will face inevitable judgment. God’s justice demands that sin be accounted for, but His grace offers a way out through Christ. The choice between repentance and rebellion determines whether one receives mercy or wrath.

Ultimately, God’s final warning is clear: those who repent will experience eternal joy, while those who reject Him will face eternal condemnation. The Book of Revelation promises comfort for the redeemed and judgment for the unrepentant. Evangelism becomes a natural outflow of true repentance, as believers share the urgency of salvation with others. While time remains, Christians must strive to bear fruit, recognizing that God’s grace provides the opportunity for genuine transformation.

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