Category: Today’s Word

What Happens When Worshiping Idols?

Matthew 12:43-45. When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44 Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. 45 Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.

In today’s Word, Jesus warns against idolatry: “The final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”

He is speaking about those who call themselves believers but do not possess true life. They are no different from those of other religions. They do not believe in the living God. They are merely religious—and religion itself becomes idolatry.

Many claim to believe in God, but in reality, they believe in something else. They have been deceived by religion. This is one of Satan’s most subtle strategies: a religious lifestyle becomes a powerful, unseen idol that gives people a false sense of conviction.

Jesus said, “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it.” The life of religious people is like this: dry and restless. No matter how long they have been involved in church, they have never truly tasted the grace and peace and power of God.

They have never experienced the Word of God as living and active—bringing life, power, and renewal to their souls. To them, Scripture remains distant and powerless. As a result, their so-called Christian life becomes increasingly burdensome and difficult. Faith feels like a duty rather than a joy. Their hearts grow weary, and their suffering continues without relief.

Likewise, idolaters are deceived, robbed, and oppressed. They have been taught that they must empty themselves, clean up their lives, and put everything in order. This is the realm of religion they strive to enter. Their efforts may seem sincere, admirable, and even holy, but in the end, all their labors are offered to the devil, leading to unexpected consequences.

Jesus warned, “Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there.” A more powerful evil spirit seizes those trapped in religion and makes its home within them!

Religious leaders, sorcerers, and false prophets perform miracles and signs by the power of evil spirits, but their end is destruction. Worse still, their descendants inherit generational curses.

The spirit they serve is a thief who comes only to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Because Satan disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), they are completely overtaken by evil without even realizing it.

Thus, all religious efforts become a heavy burden imposed by Satan. There is no true rest in religion. Everything in religion is heavy, demanding, and wearisome. This is why Jesus came as the True Prophet—to give us rest from religion. He said,

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30)

To free us from the law of sin and death, Jesus, our True Priest, shed His own blood to secure eternal redemption. Because of what He accomplished on the cross, we no longer need religion. And as our True King, He rose from the dead, crushing the head of the one who gave us religion in the first place.

Through Christ, you have been set free from the power of religion. Do not remain trapped in a religious lifestyle. Let your religious nature be transformed into the nature of the gospel of grace.

Experience true rest, peace, and joy in Christ alone. By the power of the gospel, rescue those who are struggling under the weight of idolatry and religion.

Prayer. Father, I thank You for giving me the gospel, not a religion to follow. Transform my religious nature into a gospel nature. Help me enjoy the freedom You have given me in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Danger of Idolatry

Exodus 20:4-6. “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.

Why did God command Moses and the Israelites not to make or worship idols? And why, right before they entered Canaan, did He command them to utterly destroy the inhabitants of the land along with their idols and sorcerers (Numbers 33:50–56)?

Idolatry brings disaster and calamity. Idols are like needles in the eye and thorns in the side. Without understanding the consequences of idolatry and the importance of the covenant, the Israelites would live as strangers in a land not their own. They would be enslaved and mistreated for more than 400 years.

The purpose of the Exodus was to bring God’s people out of the land of idols—Egypt. The Exodus was about the people of the covenant tearing down idols that had brought disaster and restoring the blessing of worshiping the one true, living God.

The reason for God’s calling of Abraham was the same: “The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.'” (Genesis 12:1). God commanded Abraham to leave Ur of the Chaldeans, a land full of idols. God desired to bless Abraham by setting him free from idolatry.

In the same way, God has brought us out from the city of idols—the world: “You followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.” (Ephesians 2:2).

God called us to save us from the disasters of idolatry and to empower us to break down the altars of idols everywhere. But are we completely free from the idolatry of the past? Are we tearing down the idols we ourselves and the world have erected?

An idol is anything we place between God and ourselves. Some idols are visible—statues or images—but others are invisible, like our thoughts, ideologies, stubbornness, or anything we place above God’s Word. Invisible idols are often more powerful and harder to break. These hidden idols are so subtle that we may not even realize we worship them. All of these idols block the channel of answered prayer and the flow of God’s grace.

The devil’s temptation is so cunning that it is easy to fall into idolatry. He dared to tempt Jesus: “Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.'” (Matthew 4:8–9).

God alone deserves our worship: “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.” (Isaiah 42:8). Worshiping the devil or any created thing instead of the Creator invites destruction. We must worship and serve our God alone.

Idolatry also brings generational curses: “Punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.” (Exodus 20:5). The consequences of idolatry for future generations are serious. Parents who live under the power of the devil will pass on the same kinds of troubles—if not worse—to their descendants. Their “spiritual DNA,” along with their physical DNA, will be passed on. No matter how much effort they make for their children, every spiritual, mental, and physical problem of the parents will eventually surface in their children’s lives. This is a sobering spiritual reality.

In order to deliver us from this evil and adulterous generation bound by idolatry, God gave His own Son, Jesus, to set us free from the power of idols: “The blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, will cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God.” (Hebrews 9:14).

God has loved you with an everlasting love and has drawn you to Himself with unfailing kindness (Jeremiah 31:3). So do not love this world or the things it offers, for nothing in the world can satisfy your hunger and thirst. Place your hope only in the Lord: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31).

Like Paul, we must live by faith in Christ alone: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2). Only when Christ becomes your True King will the power of idols in your life collapse. You will have victory over idolatry in your mission field.

To stand firm against the idols of this world, knowing and living with Christ must be your life’s highest priority. Again, Paul testifies: “What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” (Philippians 3:8–9).

Jesus came so that you may have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10).  God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name (Philippians 2:9–10). Jesus, who has all authority in heaven and on earth, is with you now and forever (Matthew 28:18–20).

Experience the life and power of Jesus in every moment of your life. Only Christ.  Only the Gospel. That is the only way to save the world from idolatry. Why not bow your knee at the name of Jesus and worship Him? God will use your life to set people free from the bondage of idolatry all over the world.

Prayer. Father, I worship You and You alone. Open my eyes to see all my idols and fill me with Your power to demolish them. Use my life to break down the altars of idols in my mission field and to save people from idolatry. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

What Comes After Being Filled with the Holy Spirit?

Acts 1:6-8. Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Jesus concluded His earthly ministry with His disciples by promising them the filling of the Holy Spirit. Why was this necessary?

Scripture teaches that the whole world lies under the control of the evil one, Satan (1 John 5:19). He rules the kingdom of the air (Ephesians 2:2) and holds the power of death (Hebrews 2:14). Since the beginning of time, he has led the world astray (Revelation 12:9). He carries out his schemes against us (Ephesians 6:11), using rulers, authorities, the powers of this world’s darkness, and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12). His aim is to ensure that we do not stand firm even after we have done everything (Ephesians 6:13), continually launching flaming arrows against us (Ephesians 6:16).

Disguising himself as an angel of light, Satan offers seemingly good and irresistible things (2 Corinthians 11:14). Through politics, culture, and economy, the enemy blinds the minds of the people so they cannot see the light of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4-5). He also mobilizes evil spirits to take over the spirit, soul, mind, and body of people (Mark 5:3-15; Mark 9:17-18; Luke 13:16), and he is highly organized with specific goals and plans (Revelation 2:9).

No religion can stand against the power of the devil. Nothing we do by human effort can overcome his schemes. That is why Jesus has given us authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and promised that nothing will harm us (Luke 10:19). By the power of the Holy Spirit, God enables us to demolish the kingdom of Satan by proclaiming the gospel (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, the first thing we receive is assurance and conviction. The timid Peter became bold and addressed the crowd when filled with the Holy Spirit: “In the last days, God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams‘” (Acts 2:17). Convinced that this prophecy had been fulfilled, Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel. If you lack assurance in God’s promises, ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we receive power. Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk” (Acts 3:6). Taking the man by the hand, Peter helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Peter realized that the miracle had happened at the right time and place to make Christ known where He was not yet known. When we are in step with God’s timing and His work of salvation, miracles and signs will confirm His Word.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we proclaim only Jesus. When the crowd gathered in amazement at the miracle, Peter said, “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?” (Acts 3:12). He redirected their amazement from the miracle to Christ, proving that Jesus is the Christ.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we do not fear hardships or persecutions. Standing before the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law who opposed them, Peter declared, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). He boldly proclaimed the uniqueness of Jesus, who came to give life, not religion.

Even when threatened and ordered not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus, Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20). Unable to find a way to punish them, the leaders released them. Such boldness could only come from being filled with the Holy Spirit.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we are not envious of the things of this world. The believers were united in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power, the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. Those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the proceeds, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; the money was distributed to anyone in need (Acts 4:33-35).

Most of all, they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to proclaiming the gospel: “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 5:42).

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we live with a God-given mission. The early church chose seven men to handle administrative tasks, but God used them for the advancement of the gospel (Acts 6:1-7). Stephen, for example, boldly proclaimed Jesus Christ through the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit enabled him to speak with such wisdom that his opponents could not refute him (Acts 6:10). His mission eventually cost him his life (Acts 7:54-60).

Philip also lived with a mission. When persecution broke out, he went to Samaria and proclaimed the Christ. The crowds listened intently to him, and many were delivered from evil spirits and healed from sicknesses (Acts 8:4-8). There was great joy in that city. The Holy Spirit also sent Philip to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40), opening the door for the gospel to reach Africa.

The Holy Spirit Himself fulfilled the promise of Jesus (Acts 1:8). Our mission is the work of the Holy Spirit. Our lifelong mission is the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). Only when the Holy Spirit works through us can we accomplish it. To this end, we must lay down our own ambitions and focus on what the Lord desires.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we change the world. God chose Saul, the church’s greatest enemy, as His instrument to proclaim the gospel to the Gentiles, their kings, and the people of Israel (Acts 9:15). God has always worked by changing individuals to change the world. He changed Peter’s view of the Gentiles through his encounter with Cornelius (Acts 10:1-48) and revealed to the Jerusalem church His will for the Gentiles (Acts 11:1-18). Through the church at Antioch, He opened the door to world missions (Acts 13:1-3).

God’s greatest desire is evangelism and missions. Without knowing and enjoying evangelism and missions, the Christian life has no meaning. Evangelism and missions must define our lives. God did not entrust the gospel to angels but to us, His saints, because evangelism and missions are the greatest blessings we have received. Tragically, many believers live without ever knowing or enjoying this blessing.

We have one life to live, and it is too short to spend on anything but what God desires most: saving this generation by the power of His covenant and passing it to the next. Therefore, let us remain in the complete and eternal covenant—Christ, the kingdom of God, and the Holy Spirit. Let us enter deeply into prayer until no person, circumstance, or condition becomes a problem.

Prayer. Lord, I thank You for Your promise to fill me with Your power through the Holy Spirit. Send me to the place You desire. Use me as Your instrument for the gospel. In Your precious name, Amen.

Experiencing God

Galatians 2:20. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

How do you experience God? The first step is to meet Him through His Son: “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). Receiving and believing in Jesus as the Christ marks the end of all your problems.

As the True Priest, Jesus broke the curse of your past: “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). You have been completely set free. You no longer need to live trapped in the old frame of your past.

The moment Jesus becomes your True Prophet, you are made a child of God. You no longer have to follow the ways of this world (Ephesians 2:2). When you enthrone Jesus as King over your life, the devil can no longer touch you (Ephesians 2:2). You no longer need to live in fear (Ephesians 2:3). The problems of the present will no longer rule over you.

Not only that, but when you leave this earthly home, God will take you to your eternal one: “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6).

This is what happens when you meet God through Christ. Salvation is the complete solution for your past, present, and future. To those who believe that Jesus is the Christ, God has given the Holy Spirit so that you may experience Him. He has made you His temple—the most secure place in the universe.

When you rely on the Spirit of Jesus and pray in His name, God works powerfully in your life. This is the difference between religion and the gospel. The moment you believe, the Holy Spirit begins His work in you, regardless of your circumstances or shortcomings. He helps you understand the gospel.

What about your sinful nature? Rest assured, the Holy Spirit is powerfully at work in you (Galatians 5:16–18). By the power of the Holy Spirit, you are renewed daily, becoming more like Jesus. It is not your effort; the Spirit Himself will accomplish it.

So be patient—you are still under construction: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). God will mold you into a person who lives by the gospel of His grace.

Lay down your own thoughts and ways. Cast off selfish motives. Abandon legalism. These only bring confusion, discouragement, and do not glorify God. As Paul confessed in today’s Word, recognize that you no longer live, but Christ lives in you. Live by faith in Jesus—the One who loved you and gave Himself for you.

Make Jesus the Master of your life. Only then will you experience true answers to prayer. Stop worrying. Entrust everything to the Holy Spirit, the Counselor (John 14:16–17). Seek His wisdom, guidance, peace, and protection.

Most of all, ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand the Word (John 14:26–27). His work is real, and you will see the Word fulfilled in your life. The Sprit of God will tell you what is yet to come (John 16:13).

The most powerful way to experience God is to live as Christ’s witness: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

The Holy Spirit will give you power, assurance, and evidence so that you can stand firm before the world. You will not fear persecution; rather, you will change the world.

Prayer. Father, I thank You for the blessing of being with You. Experiencing You is the greatest desire of my life. I pray that Your presence would be evident in everything I say and do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Overcoming Discouragement

Hebrews 11:6. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Why do so many believers suffer from discouragement? It is because they merely attend church without truly believing. They cling to religion instead of the gospel. They hold on to legalism rather than experience the grace of God. Jesus warned about this:

“When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean, and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation” (Matthew 12:43–45).

When a person’s heart is not filled with Jesus as Lord and Savior, and instead tries to clean and organize life through religious efforts, the result is worse than before. Religious life without Christ invites even deeper despair. This is why believing in Jesus is more urgent than attending church. Yet even believing in Jesus is not enough; one must believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:13–20).

Jesus solved the three fundamental problems of mankind. As the True King, He destroyed the work of the devil (1 John 3:8). As the True Priest, He broke the curse of sin once and for all (Mark 10:45). As the True Prophet, He opened a new and living way to God (John 14:6).

When a person believes and receives Jesus as the Christ, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within. The root of all problems is broken, leaving no room for discouragement to remain. The Spirit of God living in you ensures that nothing can destroy you (1 Corinthians 3:16). He will never leave you. He leads your life and grants you His peace (John 14:26–27).

The Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth and tell you what is yet to come (John 16:13), fill you with power from above (Acts 1:8), and move in power through you and in you, answering your prayers (John 14:14). You have been given authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). God even commands His angels to minister to you, the heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14).

You are a citizen of heaven, with full rights to live as one (Philippians 3:20). With everything you have and everything you do, you are called to testify to the gospel of Christ to all nations. And the Lord is with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:16–20).

Those who do not know the blessing of salvation cannot understand the meaning of true worship. They cannot taste the grace and blessing that flows through genuine worship. Trapped in religion, they strive to empty themselves, to clean up their lifestyle, to order their lives by human effort — unaware that without Christ, it is not the Holy Spirit at work, but the evil one. God’s heart longs for us to cast off the old clothes of religion and be clothed anew in Christ.

Discouragement is inevitable when one does not experience God (Hebrews 11:6). It signals either that a person has not received the Spirit of God or, if they have, that they are not following His guidance. The greatest obstacle to the leading of the Spirit is our own thoughts and stubbornness. Only by being filled with the Spirit can we overcome our self-centered thinking.

Without receiving and believing in Jesus as the Christ and being filled with the Holy Spirit, no one can experience the living God. The way to be filled with the Holy Spirit is to hold firmly to the covenant and devote oneself to prayer (Acts 1:14).

Many remain trapped in despair and discouragement because they cannot escape the power of sin (Romans 3:23). But God, through Christ, has made a permanent change to your destiny. You are no longer a child of the devil but a child adopted into God’s family. The Spirit you have received assures you that you are a child of God (Romans 8:15–16).

When you feel discouraged by your own weaknesses, remember: God has changed your very state — from being a slave to sin to becoming a servant of righteousness. In the past, sin ruled your life. But now, you have been set free from sin and have become a servant of God, leading to holiness and eternal life (Romans 6:17–18, 22).

If you are still living in discouragement, still trapped in despair, remember: God did not call you to live in defeat. You are a child of the King. He watches over you with eyes like blazing fire. He is leading you to the ends of the earth to bear witness to His gospel. When the gospel is proclaimed to the whole world, Jesus will return as He promised. So lift your eyes above your current circumstances and approach the throne of grace with boldness.

Fix your eyes on Jesus — the One who loved you and gave Himself for you — so that you will not grow weary or lose heart.

Prayer. Father, thank You for setting me free from despair and discouragement. Help me to fix my eyes on Christ, so that I may not grow weary or discouraged. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Living with a Mission

Philippians 1:20-26. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

Without understanding the gospel, one cannot live a life of mission. Without knowledge of the spiritual world, people cannot accomplish anything of true meaning. Instead of pursuing God’s plans, they are driven by instinct and ambition, becoming trapped and  enslaved by them.

Remember: when the Israelites lost hold of the blood covenant, they spent over 400 years in slavery under Egypt. Through Moses, God reminded His people of the long-forgotten blood covenant through the observance of the Passover.

When the Israelites believed in God’s covenant, they were finally set free from the hand of Satan, symbolized by Pharaoh; they were spared from disasters and calamities, symbolized by the ten plagues; and they were saved from the background of hell, symbolized by their bondage in Egypt.

Throughout history, God also used powerful nations like the Philistines, Assyria, Babylon, and Rome to warn His people of the dangers of idolatry and to restore His covenant with them. When they finally realized God’s plan—to send His Son as the Christ to save the world—they were freed from captivity and oppression. Until they embraced their God-ordained mission, they wandered, suffered, and lost their identity as His chosen people.

What is your God-ordained mission in life? Jesus has given each one of us the mission of evangelism and world missions:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20).

God does not want us to forget the mission He has entrusted to us, as the Israelites did. Our one and only task in life is to save lives through the power of the gospel and to proclaim the uniqueness of Christ.

To this end, God will never let us be put to shame but will make us bold for Christ. Whether we live or die, our lives will bring honor to Him. The Holy Spirit will enable us to bear abundant fruit in Christ. Like Paul, we will help others grow and experience the joy of faith.

When we live a life anchored in this mission, God promises to bring everything else to us: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

When all we are and all we have—our families, work, studies, health, hopes, and dreams—are aligned with God’s plan of salvation, we will experience the abundant life Jesus promised:
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

Prayer. Father, I thank You for the mission You have entrusted to me—the restoration of the one true gospel, proclaiming that Jesus is the Christ in this generation and beyond. Fill me with Your strength, that I may faithfully carry out this mission and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Living by Faith from First to Last

Romans 1:16-17. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

For those who belong to God, nothing happens by accident. Every circumstance—whether favorable or difficult, joyful or sorrowful—is under the sovereign rule of our Heavenly Father. Even what seems like failure or hardship is not meaningless. In Christ, all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Because of this truth, we do not live by what we see, feel, or understand in the moment. We live by faith in the One who holds all things in His hands. Our trust is not in appearances, emotions, or human plans, but in the unchanging promises of God. This is why the people of God are not shaken by circumstances. They are anchored in a greater reality—the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:17).

God did not call us merely to survive in this world. He called us to save. We have received the gospel not only for our own salvation, but so that others might come to know Christ through us. This gospel is not simply a message of morality or religion; it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). It carries within it the authority to give life, heal, and restore.

Wherever the gospel is truly enjoyed and proclaimed, lives are changed, families are healed, and nations are transformed. The righteousness of God—His justice, mercy, and faithfulness—is revealed through the life of every believer who lives by faith.

The first field of mission is your own family. As you daily enjoy and meditate on the gospel, the Spirit of God will begin to open your eyes. You will start to see the real spiritual condition of your family—not through frustration or resentment, but through the eyes of Christ’s love and compassion. What once appeared to be merely conflict or dysfunction will be seen as a spiritual battle, in need of healing through the gospel.

The restoration of your family begins when you take deliberate steps to bless each member—not by trying to control or fix them, but by yielding, praying, and serving with the heart of Christ. As you speak life instead of criticism, show grace instead of anger, and pray instead of argue, the atmosphere will begin to shift. God will use you as His instrument of healing and reconciliation.

We are also called to love and restore the Body of Christ. Sadly, in today’s world, many have been hurt by the church. Some have left, discouraged and scarred by hypocrisy, division, or legalism. But the church is still God’s chosen vessel for revealing His glory to the world. Despite its brokenness, Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy (Ephesians 5:25–27). He declared that the gates of hell would not prevail against His church (Matthew 16:18).

The true church is not defined by buildings or programs, but by people who put Christ first. When Jesus is exalted above personalities, agendas, and preferences, the church becomes a place of healing, truth, and power. God is calling us to be part of this restoration—not as critics from the sidelines, but as faithful workers who love, intercede, and build up the church in humility and grace.

Faith is not just a feeling or a concept—it is a choice. In every decision you face, you must choose between faith and unbelief. Will you trust God’s promises, or be ruled by fear and doubt? Faith honors God, and God honors faith. When you choose to believe in His Word even when nothing seems to change, you are declaring that He is greater than your circumstances. Your life becomes a testimony of His faithfulness. Let your life be a source of joy and encouragement to your church, your leaders, and the next generation. Become a living model of what it means to trust in the gospel, to walk in prayer, and to share Christ boldly and joyfully.

God has given each of us unique roles and responsibilities. You have been entrusted with a portion of His kingdom. Your workplace, your classroom, your neighborhood—these are your primary mission fields. Every conversation, every meeting, every encounter with another person is an opportunity to reveal Christ. There are no accidents in the life of a believer. Each day is a divine assignment. Your presence brings light. Your words can bring life. Your prayers can change someone’s eternal destiny.

So proclaim Christ, speak life, and carry hope everywhere you go. The people around you may never say it out loud, but many are silently weary, carrying invisible wounds, and longing for something real—something eternal that cannot be shaken or taken away. Don’t underestimate the power of a single word of encouragement, a sincere prayer, or a bold declaration of the gospel. You may be the only light someone sees today. Lift them up. Intercede for them in secret. Be available. Be kind. Be courageous. As you sow seeds of hope, God will bring the harvest. He is the One who revives hearts, restores lives, and builds His kingdom through ordinary people like you.

You don’t need to go overseas or wait for a special calling. Your mission field is here and now—wherever God has placed you. The most significant work of the gospel is not reserved for a few chosen individuals. It happens in daily life through people who are surrendered, faithful, and filled with the Spirit. As you live this way, you will begin to see revival—not just in others, but within yourself. You will discover the joy of living for what truly matters. And in every step of obedience, God will provide the strength you need.

Prayer. Lord, thank You for revealing Your righteousness through the gospel of Christ. Today, help me to choose faith over fear in every circumstance I face. Use my life as a vessel to bring salvation and healing to my family, my church, and this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Transcendence of Time and Space and the Answer of 25

Acts 1:3. After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

Is the transcendence of time and space and the 25 answer possible? Some people ask, “What is 25?” In a sense, it’s just a term, but is this really possible? Yet Jesus said, “Go to all nations.” That’s impossible, isn’t it? But Jesus talked about this—transcendence of time and space and the 25 answer. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” That’s exactly what this is. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” And in an era without airplanes, He said, “Go to all people.” Is that even possible?

One grandmother told her granddaughter something that no one in the world could tell her. It wasn’t a teacher—it was her grandmother who continually shared things the world could never say. “God is with you.” In simple terms, she was sharing the secret of transcendence of time and space and the 25 answer. The granddaughter heard from her grandmother what no one else ever told her. So, among the elders and elderly women in the church, there are many who take prayer lightly. But this is very important. That grandmother’s words raised a world-changing figure—Fanny Crosby. Though blind and unable to go anywhere or do anything, she continually heard the Word of God.

(Acts 1:3) If you don’t understand this answer—transcendence of time and space and the 25—you can’t understand Jesus’ last words. He spoke about the kingdom of God for forty days and then ascended. People think this has nothing to do with them, so they don’t receive the answer. This is the transcendence of time and space and the 25.

▣ Introduction. Only by enjoying this—transcendence of time and space and the 25 answer—is world evangelization possible.

1. All nations
2. All people
3. Ends of the earth

Without this, how can you reach all nations? How could this have been possible at that time? Was Jesus speaking nonsense? Of course not.

▣ Main
Now, what kind of prayer should you offer today? Here is the answer.

1. Condition
There is a condition for receiving the answer of transcendence of time and space.

1) Triune God
First, we ourselves cannot transcend time and space. But the Triune God is a being who transcends time and space. Even now, He is doing three things. He is still carrying out the work of creation through His Word. He is still accomplishing the work of salvation. He is still with us through the invisible work of the Holy Spirit. Because the church doesn’t believe in this, the Nephilim movement is dominating the world.

It’s not that the church doesn’t believe—it’s that they don’t see it as important. When believers face problems, they speak as though God doesn’t exist. Just waiting a little would solve it, but they can’t wait because they don’t believe. When they see someone do wrong, they could forgive and pray, but they can’t wait. When they see someone lacking, they could help while praying, but they can’t wait. At the slightest problem, they become impatient and worry unnecessarily. The Triune God does not change. That’s why we’re losing to the world. Meditation movements have taken over churches and schools globally. It’s because we don’t believe. You must believe.

If you truly believe in this Triune God, I remember in our former church in Busan, elderly women would gather and pray every day. They were physically weak—seen as powerless by the world. Their only wish was to ride a bus with Pastor Ryu for a trip. To those with shallow thinking, these women might seem useless. But that’s a misunderstanding. Would a politician come there to pray? Would movie stars go and sit there in prayer? No. It was elderly women praying. Spiritually insensitive people don’t understand this. But the spiritually perceptive deacons in our church would bring them food and treats. That shows they have discernment.

2) The Word
So how is transcendence of time and space possible? Not by our own ability, but by the Word of God. Right?

3) Prayer
The third is prayer. We can’t do it, but it’s possible through prayer. Isn’t this amazing? Look inside—what is the Word? It’s the Word of creation. It’s the Word that gives life. It’s the Word that revives our souls. More importantly, it changes our spiritual state. That’s what’s written. You must hold to this. Otherwise, why do we even worship? What is prayer? It moves the throne of heaven. Therefore, transcendence of time and space is possible. It’s a definite answer. So even if you have nothing, you can build a platform through prayer and the Word, a watchtower to save lives, and an antenna to heal people.

2. Kingdom of God
When you believe and enjoy this blessing, the kingdom of God comes upon you. Then transcendence of time and space naturally follows. This is not my idea—Jesus said it. There are things He said in passing and things He said with emphasis. Right? Some words He said casually during meals, but others He shared while calling people together. Unfortunately, Christians and churches often ignore the important things Jesus emphasized. But this He spoke about for 40 days. You must receive this blessing.

1) Platform, Watchtower, Antenna
When this happens, in simple terms, these three things—platform, watchtower, antenna—are formed in you. What is a platform? A place people are drawn to. What is a watchtower? A place that shines light for healing. What is an antenna? A means of communication with God and His Word. These are just terms—the concept is the same. They are formed within you. Don’t worry about those with spiritual problems. Once these (platform, watchtower, antenna) are established, they will be gradually healed. The reason they’re not being healed is because other things are going in instead of these. So we need to help them replace those things with these. Though impossible on our own, it becomes possible when this answer comes to us.

2) 3·9·3
What happens then? Great things unfold. The blessing of the throne appears.

3) Heavenly Army and Angels
At this point, things happen that the world cannot understand. To them, it sounds like a dream when we speak of heavenly armies and angels being mobilized. But it happens.

4) Answer, Renewal, Opportunity
Before, everything seemed like a problem. But after receiving this blessing, it becomes the answer. I used to think I wasn’t receiving answers, that God was ignoring me. But in fact, He was renewing me. In the past, I thought I had no answers. But now I see—God was transforming me. It looked like I was going through hardship, but when I asked, “Why only me?”—that was actually an opportunity.

3. World Evangelization
From this point on, transcendence of time and space leads to world evangelization. This is where it begins. If you think about it, evangelism is the easiest thing—but right now it seems the hardest. It means you’re spiritually distant. Why is evangelism easy? I may be off-topic, but I don’t really like seeing people shouting loudly at train stations for evangelism. I know it’s my opinion and it’s wrong—some people do receive the gospel that way. But I wish they would stay home. Real evangelism isn’t like that. One day, you’ll see someone near you who needs God’s Word. Why can’t you share with them? Of course, you can. One day, someone will come to you—just tell them. What’s so hard about that? Don’t be fooled. It only seems difficult. Even your unbelieving family who seem to persecute you—they’re actually watching you. Be careful. Some groups might have strange members, but even those people are watching closely. One day, when they are in real trouble, they’ll come to you. That’s when you speak. Don’t be deceived. Didn’t I tell you before? My daughter was attending college, and at her school, graduation required fieldwork. She was assigned to the best organization in Korea. That was God’s grace. But then she contacted me, saying she wanted to quit. I asked why. She said they made her do things like make coffee that had nothing to do with her. “That’s not fieldwork.” I told her, “You don’t understand—they’re testing you.” She understood. Later, they liked her very much, invited her again, and even gave her gifts. You may think people are persecuting you—but they’re watching. Don’t be deceived.

[RT – 7] The answer is in the seven remnants. People knew God through Joseph. How could Joseph teach the commander of the army? He didn’t teach—but they knew God through him. Even Saul, who chased David, knew God through David.

Psalm 103:20-22
There are many Scriptures, but the one I most want to share about the seven remnants is this—Psalm 103:20–22. It’s David, who received the most answers to prayer, speaking.

Word – Angels
“Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding.” Right?

Will – Heavenly Army
“You His heavenly hosts who do His will.” To King Saul, this meant nothing. “Money is what matters,” he thought. “You need position.” Who perished? Saul did. The seemingly foolish David conquered the world.

Worship – Heavenly Hosts and Angels
“You who minister where the Lord dwells.” What does that mean? When you worship and pray. “You”—that means both heavenly hosts and angels. When you pray, all are mobilized. When you worship, all are mobilized. “Why is everything I do failing?” That’s not it. Because you belong to God, He doesn’t give you the wrong thing—He’s correcting you. “Why isn’t this working?” you ask. It’s because you’re God’s child—He won’t let you receive the wrong answer. He wants to give you the real thing. Don’t be deceived. That’s why you must enjoy God’s kingdom. When you go to the field, you will definitely see God’s plan.

▣ Conclusion
1. First (Answer)
As you continue to enjoy this blessing, you begin to see the answer. That’s enough.

2. Healing (Fundamental)
And more importantly, don’t worry. Healing will happen. Doctors help to treat your condition, but God heals the root. That’s healing. God already has the answer prepared and then calls you—that’s why He tells you to pray. Healing means fixing the root.

3. Path (Absolute)
From then on, what happens? You begin to see the path. Since you saw the path before you walked it, it’s not just any path—it’s absolute. If someone is going through hardship, it may be a time of absolute blessing. It may be difficult to endure, but that’s why God gives the strength of prayer and spiritual blessing.

I bless you in the name of Jesus Christ, that today’s worship would be a time of deep grace and healing. Let us pray.

Prayer. God, we thank You. Let this be a time of great strength. Let it be a time when even unknown diseases are healed. Let all our problems and hardships be turned into blessings. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

The Danger of Spiritual Ignorance

Matthew 16:13-20. When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”

14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”

16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

17 Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” 20 Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.

Scripture makes it clear that the consequence of spiritual ignorance is severe—destruction both in this life and in the life to come (Hosea 4:6). If we fail to understand the spiritual realm and our own spiritual condition, we cannot truly grasp the necessity of Jesus and His gospel.

As a result, we tend to seek assurance in our own thoughts and standards. We look to the world for a sense of security. But any assurance that is not rooted in the One who gives true and eternal assurance leads only to confusion and instability. Spiritual ignorance leads us into foolish paths like religion, legalism, and moral living without Christ.

Living under the devil’s power and bound by sin, people often turn to religion as a means of salvation. Because many churches today promote various religious methods, emotional fervor, and sacrificial lifestyles, people end up pretending to be devoted to God—yet their lives remain unchanged at the core (2 Timothy 3:5).

Members of Christ’s church are increasingly taking on the outward form of religion. The very church entrusted with the life-giving gospel to save the world is now seen as just another religious institution, proclaiming lifeless rituals instead of true life.

Religious living may seem right at first, but in the end, it leads to death. Why? Because every religion originates from man. Its standard is human effort. Its way of salvation is based on good works, which can only bring superficial change.

Religious people attempt to cover themselves, but like garments made of fig leaves (Genesis 3:7), their religious works do not endure. Their condition ultimately becomes worse than before (Matthew 12:45). Without knowing God’s perfect love, believers are plagued by fear of judgment (1 John 4:18–19). Tragically, many Christians fail to continue in the grace and blessing of God.

This is why so many grow weary, burdened by spiritual weight, yet unable to find rest in Christ. They do not experience the gospel as easy and light (Matthew 11:28–30). Consequently, they become easy targets for the devil (1 Peter 5:7–8). Many believers are leaving the church in great numbers, and unbelievers have lost hope in what the church represents.

Yet Jesus declared, “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). The foundation of the church is not religion—it is the confession of faith that Jesus is the Christ.

Jesus was not merely one of the religious leaders like John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. He is “the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

As the True King, He came to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). As the True Priest, He offered His own blood on the cross to set us free from the curse of sin (Mark 10:45). As the True Prophet, He opened the only way to God for those lost in the background of hell (John 14:6). Christians, therefore, are those who know, experience, and proclaim the one true gospel: that Jesus has perfectly fulfilled the work of the Christ.

If you have received and believed that Jesus is the Christ, then God has given you the right to become His child (John 1:12). Through the Holy Spirit, He will be with you forever. Nothing can stand against you. There is no longer any reason to be enslaved by your past. Jesus has promised to make you like an unshakable rock.

God has also given you authority over the forces of darkness. Not even the power of hell can overcome you. He has given you the keys of the kingdom of heaven so that through prayer, you may release God’s power and carry out His will. You have been granted the privilege to approach His throne with boldness.

So, walk in the blessing of fellowship with Christ each day. Listen to His voice. Do all things in His presence. Live for what matters most: to know, enjoy, and proclaim Christ. And live in the blessing of the early church: “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 5:42).

With this blessing, awaken the world that slumbers in spiritual ignorance.

Prayer. Father, I thank You for the knowledge that led me to salvation. It was Your grace alone that made it possible. Help me to continually know, enjoy, and proclaim the good news that Jesus is the Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.