The Seven Feast of the Lord

Primary text: (Leviticus 23)
These are not calledJewishfeast – God Himself calls them “The feast of the Lord(Lev. 23:2 “Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: 'The feasts of the LORD, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are My feasts.”)
They reveal theentire redemptive plan of God from the cross to the Kingdom.
There are two groups:
Spring feasts – fulfilled in Christ first coming
Passover
Unleavened Bread
Firstfruits
Pentecost
Fall feasts – fulfilled at Christ's Second Coming
Feast of Trumpets
Day of Atonement
Feast of Tabernacles

I. Passover
(Lev. 23:5 “On the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight is the LORD's Passover.”)
Commentary
“Fourteenth day...at even”
Exact date: 14th of Nisan
“At even” = the beginning of the Jewish day (sunset)
Same timing as the slaughter of the lambs in (Exodus 12).
Historic Meaning:
Commemorates deliverance form Egypt through the death of a spotless lamb.
Messianic Fulfillment:
Christ crucifiedon Passover day.
“Behold the Lamb of God” (Jn. 1:29 “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, 'Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!'”)
“Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us” (1 Cor. 5:7 “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.”)
Prophetic Application:
The starting point of God's redemptive plan.
Salvation always begins with theshed blood of the lamb.
Unleavened Bread
(Lev. 23:6-8 “And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the LORD; seven days y9ou must eat unleavened bread. (vs. 7) On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it. (vs. 8) But you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD for seven days. The seventh day shall be a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it.”)
(vs. 6) “The fifteenth day...is the feast of unleavened bread...seven days you must eat unleavened bread.”
Begins immediately after Passover
Unleavened = without yeast, symbolizingsin removed.
Seven days = complete sanctification.
Fulfillment:
Jesus' body in the tomb (sinless, without corruption).
Believers cleansed and called to holiness. (1 Cor. 5:7-8 “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. (vs. 8) Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”)
(vs. 7) - “In the first day you shall have an holy convocation; you shall do no servile work.”
“Holy convocation” = sacred assembly
No “servile” (laborious) work = holiness requiresresting from self-effort.
(vs. 8) - “Seven days you shall offer an offering...in the seventh day is an holy convocation.”
Every day had sacrifices – a picture of continual sanctification.
The feast ends like it begins: with holiness, separation, and dedication.
Prophetic Meaning:
The believers walk is book-ended by God's grace.
Christ's burial guarantees ourold life is cut off.
Firstfruits
(Lev. 23:9-14 “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 10) 'Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: 'When you come into the land which I give to you, and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest. (vs. 11) He shall wave the sheaf before the LORD, to be accepted on your behalf; on the day after the Sabbath the priest shall wave it. (vs. 12) And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of t he first year, without blemish, as a burnt offering to the LORD. (vs. 13) Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, an offering made by fire to the LORD, for a sweet aroma; and its drink offering shall be of wine, one-fourth of a hin. (vs. 14) You shall eat neither bread nor parched grain nor fresh grain until the same day that you have brought an offering to your God; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings.”)
(vs. 9-10) – Bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priest.”
The first sheaf of barley is cut and offered to God.
Represents thefirst of the harvest that guarantees the rest.
Fulfillment:
Jesus rises from the dead on Firstfruits
(1 Cor. 15:20 “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”) - “Christ … the firstfruits.”
(vs. 11) - “wave the sheaf...on the morrow after the Sabbath.”
Always theSunday after Passover.
The priest raises the sheaf upward:
- Symbolizing resurrection.
- Acceptance before God.
Fulfillment:
Jesus roseexactlyon this day (Matt. 28:1-6 “Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. (vs. 2) And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. (vs. 3) His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. (vs. 4) And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men. (vs. 5) but the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. (vs. 6) He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”)
(vs. 12-13 “And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of the first year, without blemish, as a burnt offering to the LORD. (vs. 13) Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, an offering made by fire to the LORD, for a sweet aroma; and its drink offering shall be of wine, one-fourth of a hin.”)
A spotless lamb and grain/oil offering accompany the sheaf.
Symbolizes:
- sacrifice
- sustenance (grain)
- joy/anointing (oil)
Messianic Meaning:
Resurrection is God'sacceptanceof Christ's offering.
(vs. 14) – You shall eat neither bread...until the same day...”
They could not eat the harvest until the firstfruits were offered.
New Testament Application:
All spiritual blessings beginwith Christ's resurrection.
Pentecost (Feast of Weeks)
(Leviticus 23:15-22)
(vs. 15-16 “And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed. (vs. 16) Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the LORD.”)
7 x 7 weeks = completion
50th day = Pentecost
Fulfillment:
Holy Spirit descended on Pentecost (Acts 2)
Beginning of the Church Age.
(vs. 17) - “Two wave loaves...baked with leaven”
Twoloaves = Jew + Gentile in one body
Baked with leaven= the Church still contains sinful people.
Key Insight:
This is theONLYfeast that is leaven.
(vs. 18-20)
Multiple offerings: burnt, sin, peace sacrifices.
Symbolizes the fullness of redemption Christ provides through the Spirit.
(vs. 21) - “A holy, convocation...do no servile work.”
Pentecost is a celebration ofrest through the Spirit, not works
(vs. 22) - “Leave the corners...for the poor and stranger”
A picture ofGentile inclusionin the harvest.
Prophetic Application:
During the Church Age, God is gathering a people from all nations.
Feast of Trumpets
(Lev. 23:23-25 “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 24) Speak to the children of Israel, saying: In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall have a sabbath-rest, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation. (vs. 25) You shall do no customary work on it; and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD.”)
(vs. 23-24) - “A memorial of blowing of trumpets”
Yom Teruah = day ofshouting/blasting
Signals awakening, gathering, announcement of a King
Prophetic Fulfillment (Pre-Trib Rapture)
(1 Thess. 4:16) - “trumpet of God”
(1 Cor. 15:52) - “last trump”
(Rev. 4:1) - “come up hither”
Theonly feaststarting on a day “no man knows” due to new moon sightings.
(vs. 25) - “Do not servile work...offer an offering”
A day of rest and attention
symbolizes suddenness, solemnity, and gathering
Prophetic Meaning:
Represents theRapture Event– the Church gathered into God's presence.
Day of Atonement
(Lev. 23:26-32 “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: (vs. 27) Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. (vs. 28) And you shall do no work on that same day, for it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the LORD your God. (vs. 29) For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day, that person I will destroy from among his people. (vs. 31) You shall do no manner of work; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings. (vs. 32) It shall be to you a sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; on the ninth day of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your sabbath.”)
(vs. 26-27) – It shall be a day of atonement...afflict your souls.”
Israel's national cleansing
“afflict your souls” = deep repentance, fasting
Messianic Meaning:
Fulfilled spiritually at the cross
Fulfilled prophetically when Israel recognizes Christ (Zech. 12:10 “And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.”)
(vs. 28-30)
Severe warnings: those who refuse repentance are cut off.
Points to Israel's future rejection/acceptance of Messiah.
Prophetic Meaning:
The remnant of Israel will be saved during the Tribulation (Rom. 11:26 “And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: THE DILIVERER WILL COME OUT OF ZION, AN DHE WILL TURN AWAY UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB;”)
(vs. 31-32)
Total rest; from evening to evening
Emphasizes the absolute holiness of this day.
Tabernacles
(Lev. 23:33-44 “Then LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 34) 'Speak to the children of Israel, saying: 'The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the Feast of tabernacles for seven days to the LORD. (vs. 35) On the first day there shall be a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work on it. (vs. 36) For seven days you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. On the eighth day you shall have a holy convocation, and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. It is a sacred assembly, and you shall no customary work on it. (vs. 37) These are the feasts of the LORD which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, to offer an offering made by fire to the LORD, a burnt offering and a grain offering, a sacrifice and drink offerings, everything on its day – (vs. 38) besides the Sabbaths of the LORD, besides your gifts, besides all your vows, and besides all your freewill offerings which you give to the LORD (vs. 39) Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall keep the feast of the LORD for seven days; on the first day there shall be a sabbath-rest, and on the eighth day a sabbath-rest. (vs. 40) And you shall take for yourselves on the first day the fruit of beautiful trees, branches of palm trees, the boughs of leafy trees, and willows of the brook; and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. (vs. 41) You shall keep it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It shall be a statute forever in your generations. You shall celebrate it in the seventh month. (vs. 42) You shall swell in booths for seven days. All who are native Israelites shall dwell in booths, (vs. 43) that your generations may know that I made the children of Israel swell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt; I am the LORD your God.'” (vs. 44) So Moses declared to the children of Israel the feasts of the LORD.”)
(vs. 33-34) “The fifteenth day... is the feast of tabernacles...seven days.”
Booths (sukkot) symbolize God's presence in the wilderness.
(vs. 35) “First day: holy convocation”
(vs. 36) “Eighth day: solemn assemble”
An unusual “eighth day” points to eternity/new creation.
(vs. 37-38)
These feasts supplement (not replace) regular sacrifices.
(vs. 39) “Ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days.”
After harvest-great joy and thanksgiving.
(vs. 40)
Take palm, willow, and leafy branches = celebration
(vs. 41-42)
Dwell in booths to remember God's care.
(vs. 43)
Teaches future generations God's faithfulness in the wilderness.
(vs. 44)
“And Moses declared...the feasts of the LORD.”
God's prophetic calendar revealed to Israel.

Prophetic Fulfillment Summary
Feast
First Coming
Present Age
Second Coming
Passover
Crucifixion
salvation
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Unleavened Bread
Burial
Sanctification
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Firstfruits
Resurrection
New Life
Our Resurrection
Pentecost
Holy Spirit
Church Age
------------
Trumpets
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Rapture Pre-Trib
------------
Atonement
Cross
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Israel Saved at Christ Return
Tabernacles
Incarnation (shadow)
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Millennium/New Heaven and Earth

Shepherds didn’t pour oil on sheep for ceremony or appearance. They did it because sheep were vulnerable, easily wounded, and unable to protect themselves from things they couldn’t see coming. Oil was an act of care. It was personal. It was protective. And it was daily.

In the ancient world, shepherds would mix olive oil with herbs and spices and gently rub it over a sheep’s head, nose, ears, and sometimes the whole body. This oil served multiple purposes. It healed cuts and scrapes from rocky terrain. It soothed skin irritated by heat and dryness. Most importantly, it protected sheep from parasites and insects. Flies would lay eggs in a sheep’s nose or ears, leading to infection, torment, and even death. The oil created a barrier. What once brought irritation and danger could no longer take hold.

Sheep didn’t apply the oil themselves. They didn’t earn it by behaving well. They didn’t request it with perfect obedience. The shepherd noticed the need and responded with care. The oil wasn’t a reward. It was provision.

This image is powerful because Scripture often describes God as our Shepherd and us as His sheep. When David wrote, “You anoint my head with oil,” he wasn’t speaking poetically. He was describing the Shepherd’s intentional care over the vulnerable places of our lives. Oil represented healing, protection, and presence.

For New Testament believers, this image finds its fulfillment in Jesus.

Through Jesus, we are not merely visited by the Shepherd. We are permanently cared for by Him. The anointing is no longer external and occasional. The Holy Spirit now dwells within us. What oil did temporarily on the outside, the Spirit does continually on the inside.

Just as oil protected sheep from unseen threats, the Spirit guards our hearts and minds. Just as oil soothed wounds, the grace of God heals places we’ve been hurt by life, sin, or failure. Just as oil kept irritation from taking root, the Spirit keeps accusation, shame, and fear from settling in and defining us.

Notice something important: oil didn’t make sheep perfect. It made them protected. They still walked rocky paths. They still wandered. They still needed guidance. But they were covered.

That’s the posture of New Testament faith. We don’t live trying to avoid every mistake so God will care for us. We live from the reality that He already does. The Shepherd goes before us, tends to us, and applies what we cannot apply ourselves.

When Scripture speaks of anointing in the New Testament, it consistently points to God’s initiative, not our effort. “You have been anointed by the Holy One.” That means you are already marked, already covered, already kept.

The enemy loves dry places. Shame grows where wounds stay untreated. Fear multiplies where irritation is ignored. But oil changes the environment. And in Christ, your life is not dry ground. You are cared for ground.

The same Shepherd who poured oil on the sheep then is the Shepherd who pours grace, truth, and life into us now. Not because we asked perfectly. Not because we behaved consistently. But because love always moves first.

You are not surviving on your own. You are not exposed. You are not overlooked.

Your Shepherd still anoints heads with oil.
And in Christ, that oil never runs out.

The Resurrection Related to Justification and Sanctification

I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. (Jhn 11:25-26)

It would be appropriate to again follow a pattern we have used previously, applying our present subject (the resurrection) both to our starting out with God (justification) and our going on with God (sanctification). The great value in doing such is to be repeatedly reminded that the grace of God that starts us out in this new life in Christ is the same grace that develops this life in Christ.

When Jesus proclaimed the words of our present verses, He was standing at the tomb of Lazarus. Martha, one of the sisters, was interacting with Him. She had hoped that Jesus would have arrived earlier, knowing He could have prevented this death. "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (Jhn 11:21). Even now, with her brother in the tomb, she realizes He could possibly yet intervene. "But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You" (Jhn 11:22). Jesus comforts her by assuring that Lazarus will be resurrected. "Your brother will rise again" (Jhn 11:23). Martha assumes that Jesus is referring to the final resurrection of the saints. "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day" (Jhn 11:24).

At this point, Jesus offers one of those glorious "I am" revelations. "I am the resurrection and the life." Then, He added two wonderful applications. First, faith in Him can even bring the dead to life, like Lazarus. "He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live." Second, faith in him can ensure eternal life to those who are yet alive. "And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."

Think again of the implications connected with Jesus' basic statement. "I am the resurrection and the life." Martha desired an immediate resurrection for her brother. She wanted him to live once again. Jesus revealed that He Himself was what Martha desired for her brother. He was "the resurrection and the life." Jesus provides resurrection and life, because in His very person He is resurrection life. He is the resurrection that we all need from our deadness, whether physical or spiritual. "I am the resurrection." He is the life that we need, if we are to live as God intended. "I am . . . the life." Knowing Christ by faith makes us partakers of what He Himself is: "the resurrection and the life." This is vital to see, because the Christian life is a resurrection life. Such a life can only be found in a resurrected Lord, and it can only be developed following a resurrected Lord.

Jesus, I bow down before You as my resurrected Lord. Apart from You, I would only know spiritual deadness as a fallen son of Adam. In You I have a spiritual resurrection to new life. Now, I want to pursue You daily to see that new, resurrected life more fully developed in me. Lord Jesus, lead me, I pray, into more life, Amen.

The Nephilim Corrupted the Planet
Interestingly, the Book of Enoch, with its heavy emphasis on angels, does not say much about the giants of the antediluvian world.
“1 And all the others together with them took unto themselves wives, and each chose for himself one, and they began to go in unto them and to defile themselves with them, and they taught them charms 2 and enchantments, and the cutting of roots, and made them acquainted with plants. And they 3 became pregnant, and they bare great giants, whose height was three thousand ells: Who consumed 4 all the acquisitions of men. And when men could no longer sustain them, the giants turned against 5 them and devoured mankind. And they began to sin against birds, and beasts, and reptiles, and 6 fish, and to devour one another’s flesh, and drink the blood. Then the earth laid accusation against the lawless ones.” – 1 Enoch 7:1–6
The Bible provides this same information when the Lord decried the damage the incursion of fallen angels had wrought and the wickedness of the Nephilim:
“The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” – Genesis 6:11–13
Interestingly, when Noah and his family exited the ark after the Flood ended, the first law the Lord issued was a prohibition on drinking blood:
“And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things. But flesh with the life thereof, which is the blood thereof, shall ye not eat.” – Genesis 9:1–4
So, although the text in Genesis does not explicitly say the Nephilim were eating flesh and drinking blood, it was enough of an issue for the Creator to mention as soon as the earth’s population restarted. Other Bible passages involving the Nephilim allude to the eating of humans. The 12 spies Moses sent to scout the Promised Land saw the infamous sons of Anak, giants living among the people there. The sight of these Nephilim so scared 10 of the unbelieving spies that they no longer believed the Lord could deliver the land to them. In their frightened account they stated:
“But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.” – Numbers 13:31–32
Not satisfied with assaulting the human gene pool, the giants also defiled animals – a point recorded in the extra-biblical Book of Jasher:
“And their judges and rulers went to the daughters of men and took their wives by force from their husbands according to their choice, and the sons of men in those days took from the cattle of the earth, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the air, and taught the mixture of animals of one species with the other, in order therewith to provoke the Lord; and God saw the whole earth and it was corrupt, for all flesh had corrupted its ways upon earth, all men and all animals. And the Lord said, I will blot out man that I created from the face of the earth, yea from man to the birds of the air, together with cattle and beasts that are in the field for I repent that I made them.” – Book of Jasher 3:18–19
Although the Bible does not specifically report angels’ teaching humanity “the mixture of animals of one species with the other,” Scripture provides sufficient evidence to conclude that something sinful took place with animals in addition to human beings during the reign of the sons of God and their Nephilim offspring. When God pronounced judgment during the days of Noah, He specifically included animals:
“And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.” – Genesis 6:7
“And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die.” – Genesis 6:17
In the above verses God stressed that all flesh – both human and animal – was polluted by the angelic-Nephilim invasion. Just as God repented of making humanity, He also repented of making beasts, creeping things, and birds. Recall that in the Mosaic Law the Lord specifically outlawed the “gendering” or cross-breeding of animals, precisely what the Book of Jasher accused the sons of God of teaching humanity. And as we saw in the chapter on God’s genetic order, the instructions God gave to Noah in Genesis 6 and 7 specifically called for only animals after their kind to be taken into the ark:
“But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee. And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive.” – Genesis 6:18–20
The Lord returned the animal world to its original genetic state. Just as animals were originally created “after their kind,” God told Noah to include only those animals who remained genetically pure “to keep seed alive.”
We find yet another confirmation of the satanic hybridization that took place before the Flood in the book of Revelation. When the fallen angelic hordes are released from the abyss or tartarus, the current prison of the wicked sons of Gods, they appear as hybrid creatures:
“And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power… And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions. And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was to hurt men five months.” – Revelation 9:1–3; 7–10
The bizarre description of these creatures who are freed from their prison to torment sinners on Earth is reminiscent of minotaurs, centaurs, and other hybrid creatures of mythology. These “locusts” have faces like men, hair like women, and the ferocious teeth of lions. They have scorpion tails and can fly. These demonic hordes will no doubt frighten the world living in the Great Tribulation just as the giants frightened the humans living in the days of Noah. The preponderance of biblical evidence points to the conclusion that the genetic corruption brought on by the sons of God and the Nephilim affected humanity and animals alike.
The Nephilim, murderous cannibals who hated God and anything related to the prophesied Messiah, were unbridled evil. They corrupted the antediluvian world to the point that humanity’s very existence was in peril. Even the animal kingdom was victimized and turned into monstrosities. The world was literally transforming into Satan’s kingdom. But there was one man who trusted in the True and Living God and knew the seed of Satan would not win this cosmic war. Heeding the prophecies handed down from his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, this man knew the Lord was going to strike back in a manner the world had never seen before. And only the handful of believers left on Earth would survive. Noah, a preacher in a sinful world, knew the reign of the fallen angels and Nephilim was coming to an earth-shattering and unexpected end.

“Now Is the Day”
Scripture (NKJV):
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” — 2 Corinthians 6:2
There is a dangerous illusion that grips the human heart—the lie of later.
“I’ll get right with God later.”
“I’ll repent someday.”
“I’ll come to Christ when I’m ready.”
But God thunders through His Word: NOW.
Not tomorrow.
Not when life settles down.
Not when you feel worthy.
Now is the day of salvation.
You are not promised your next breath. Scripture declares, “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14, NKJV). Life is fleeting, eternity is certain, and your soul is hanging in the balance.
Sin is not small—it is cosmic treason against a holy God. It separates, it condemns, and it leads to eternal judgment. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23, NKJV). That is not merely physical death—that is eternal separation from God in hell.
But hear the glorious interruption of grace:
Jesus Christ stepped into your place.
The sinless Son of God bore the full weight of your sin on the cross. He drank the cup of wrath you deserved. He died, was buried, and rose again in victory—conquering sin, death, and hell.
This is not religion.
This is rescue.
And the call is urgent:
Repent and believe the gospel.
Turn from your sin—completely.
Cast yourself upon Christ—fully.
Trust Him—not your works, not your goodness, not your intentions—Him alone.
Do not harden your heart. Every moment you delay is a gamble with eternity. The same sun that softens wax hardens clay.
Now is the accepted time.
God is calling. Mercy is extended. The door is open.
But it will not stay open forever.
Prayer:
Lord God,
I confess that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I turn from my sin and place my full trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Thank You for the cross, for the blood that was shed, and for the empty tomb. Save me, change me, and make me Yours. I surrender all to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A Final Word:
If you feel conviction right now—that is not coincidence, that is the Spirit of God calling you.
Don’t resist Him.
Run to Christ—while you still can.

Colossians 1:3 (NKJV) reads:
“We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.”
This phrase “God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” is loaded with deep theological truth. Let’s break it down carefully and scripturally.
1. Two Titles, One Person
The phrase uses two connected titles:
“God” (Greek: Theos)
“Father” (Greek: Patēr)
Paul is not speaking of two different beings, but one Person described in two relational ways.
Meaning:
“God” → speaks of His divine nature, authority, and supremacy
“Father” → speaks of His relationship within the Trinity, specifically to the Son
2. The Relationship Within the Trinity
This phrase reveals the eternal relationship between the Father and the Son.
The Father is God over all
The Father is Father to Jesus Christ
But here’s the crucial truth:
Jesus is not a created being—He is the eternal Son.
John 1:1 (NKJV)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
So when Paul says:
“God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”
He is affirming:
Distinction of Persons (Father ≠ Son)
Unity of essence (both fully God)
3. Jesus’ Humanity and Submission
This phrase also reflects Christ’s incarnation—His coming in the flesh.
As the God-man, Jesus relates to the Father in a real, lived way:
John 20:17 (NKJV)
“I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.”
Notice:
Jesus calls the Father “My God”
This reflects His true humanity and voluntary submission
As man, Jesus worships the Father
As God, Jesus is equal with the Father
4. “Lord Jesus Christ” Matters
Paul doesn’t say this casually—every word matters:
“Lord” (Kyrios) → Sovereign, divine authority
“Jesus” → His human name (Savior)
“Christ” → Messiah, the Anointed One
So the phrase means:
The One who is God (the Father) is the Father of the incarnate, reigning, divine Son—Jesus Christ
5. Why Paul Uses This Phrase
Paul uses this wording often (see also Ephesians 1:3) to:
A. Anchor prayer in right theology
We pray:
To the Father
Through the Son
By the Spirit
B. Emphasize relationship
God is not distant—He is Father
But only through Christ do we enter that relationship
6. Evangelistic Truth
This phrase is not just theological—it’s personal.
If God is:
The Father of Jesus Christ
Then the question is:
Is He your Father?
Because Scripture says:
John 1:12 (NKJV)
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God…”
You are not born into this relationship—you must be born again.
7. Summary
The phrase “God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” teaches:
God is supreme (Theos)
God is relational (Father)
Jesus is distinct from the Father
Jesus is equal with the Father in divinity
Jesus, as man, submits to the Father
Through Christ, we can know God as Father
Closing Exhortation
You can know God as Creator…
You can even know Him as Judge…
But until you come through Jesus Christ,
you will never know Him as Father.
Come to Christ—and the God of heaven becomes your Father forever.

A Heart That Holds Others in Grace

Philippians 1:7
“Just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.”

Paul writes these words not form comfort, but from chains. Imprisoned for Christ, he does not speak bitterness, loneliness, or self-pity – but affection, unity, and grace. His love for the Philippian believers is not rooted in convenience, but in shared suffering and shared purpose in the gospel.

To say, “I have you in my heart,” is to speak covenant language – deep spiritual fellowship (koinonia). This echoes his earlier words:

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you...for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now” (Phil. 1:3-5).

True Christian love is not sentimental alone; it is sacrificial and mission-centered.

United in Chains and in Calling

Paul reminds them that whether he is in “chains” or proclaiming Christ publicly, they are “partakers...of grace.” Grace had joined them together.

Scripture teaches that believers are bound together not merely by friendship, but by Christ Himself:

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body” (1 Cor. 12:13).
“If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it” (1 Cor. 12:26)

The Philippians shared in Paul's ministry through prayer, support, and steadfast faith (Phil. 4:14-16). They could not stand in the prison cell with him, but they stood with him in spirit, purpose, and loyalty to Christ.

So it is with the church today:

“Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2).

The Grace That Makes Us Family

Paul does not say they are partakers of his hardship – butpartakers of grace.Even suffering becomes sacred when grace is shared.

This grace:
saves us (Eph. 2:8-9),
strengthens us (2 Cor. 12:9),
unites us (Rom. 5:2),
and sustains us in trials (1 Pet. 5:10).

Grace forms a spiritual bond stronger than distance, stronger than prison bars, stronger than persecution.

“Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus” (Rom. 15:5).

A Living Application

Philippians 1:7 asks us:
Who do we carry in our hearts?
Do we love fellow believers only when life is easy?
Or do we share grace in trials, defend the gospel together, and stand firm side by side?

Jesus said:

“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

Paul's love flowed from Christ's love:

“The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 5:5).

When Christ swells in us, His people dwell in our hearts.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your abounding grace, the grace that saved us, sustains us, and binds us together in Christ Jesus. Thank You for the example of the apostle Paul, whose heart was anchored in love even while bound in chains, and who joy flowed from fellowship in the gospel.
Lord, teach us to carry one another in our hearts, not only in times of ease but also in trials. Make us faithful partakers of grace – standing together in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. Knit our hearts together by Your Spirit, that we may love as You have loved us.
Strengthen us when we suffer for Your name. Give us boldness to proclaim Christ, patience to endure hardship, and compassion to bear one another's burdens. May Your grace be evident in our words, our prayers, and our lives.
We entrust ourselves and one another into Your loving care, confident that You who began a good work in us will complete in until the day of Jesus Christ.
We pray this in the precious and mighty name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Seven Feast of the Lord

Primary text: (Leviticus 23)
These are not calledJewishfeast – God Himself calls them “The feast of the Lord(Lev. 23:2 “Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: 'The feasts of the LORD, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are My feasts.”)
They reveal theentire redemptive plan of God from the cross to the Kingdom.
There are two groups:
Spring feasts – fulfilled in Christ first coming
Passover
Unleavened Bread
Firstfruits
Pentecost
Fall feasts – fulfilled at Christ's Second Coming
Feast of Trumpets
Day of Atonement
Feast of Tabernacles

I. Passover
(Lev. 23:5 “On the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight is the LORD's Passover.”)
Commentary
“Fourteenth day...at even”
Exact date: 14th of Nisan
“At even” = the beginning of the Jewish day (sunset)
Same timing as the slaughter of the lambs in (Exodus 12).
Historic Meaning:
Commemorates deliverance form Egypt through the death of a spotless lamb.
Messianic Fulfillment:
Christ crucifiedon Passover day.
“Behold the Lamb of God” (Jn. 1:29 “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, 'Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!'”)
“Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us” (1 Cor. 5:7 “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.”)
Prophetic Application:
The starting point of God's redemptive plan.
Salvation always begins with theshed blood of the lamb.
Unleavened Bread
(Lev. 23:6-8 “And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the LORD; seven days y9ou must eat unleavened bread. (vs. 7) On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it. (vs. 8) But you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD for seven days. The seventh day shall be a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it.”)
(vs. 6) “The fifteenth day...is the feast of unleavened bread...seven days you must eat unleavened bread.”
Begins immediately after Passover
Unleavened = without yeast, symbolizingsin removed.
Seven days = complete sanctification.
Fulfillment:
Jesus' body in the tomb (sinless, without corruption).
Believers cleansed and called to holiness. (1 Cor. 5:7-8 “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. (vs. 8) Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”)
(vs. 7) - “In the first day you shall have an holy convocation; you shall do no servile work.”
“Holy convocation” = sacred assembly
No “servile” (laborious) work = holiness requiresresting from self-effort.
(vs. 8) - “Seven days you shall offer an offering...in the seventh day is an holy convocation.”
Every day had sacrifices – a picture of continual sanctification.
The feast ends like it begins: with holiness, separation, and dedication.
Prophetic Meaning:
The believers walk is book-ended by God's grace.
Christ's burial guarantees ourold life is cut off.
Firstfruits
(Lev. 23:9-14 “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 10) 'Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: 'When you come into the land which I give to you, and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest. (vs. 11) He shall wave the sheaf before the LORD, to be accepted on your behalf; on the day after the Sabbath the priest shall wave it. (vs. 12) And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of t he first year, without blemish, as a burnt offering to the LORD. (vs. 13) Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, an offering made by fire to the LORD, for a sweet aroma; and its drink offering shall be of wine, one-fourth of a hin. (vs. 14) You shall eat neither bread nor parched grain nor fresh grain until the same day that you have brought an offering to your God; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings.”)
(vs. 9-10) – Bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priest.”
The first sheaf of barley is cut and offered to God.
Represents thefirst of the harvest that guarantees the rest.
Fulfillment:
Jesus rises from the dead on Firstfruits
(1 Cor. 15:20 “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”) - “Christ … the firstfruits.”
(vs. 11) - “wave the sheaf...on the morrow after the Sabbath.”
Always theSunday after Passover.
The priest raises the sheaf upward:
- Symbolizing resurrection.
- Acceptance before God.
Fulfillment:
Jesus roseexactlyon this day (Matt. 28:1-6 “Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. (vs. 2) And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. (vs. 3) His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. (vs. 4) And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men. (vs. 5) but the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. (vs. 6) He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”)
(vs. 12-13 “And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of the first year, without blemish, as a burnt offering to the LORD. (vs. 13) Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, an offering made by fire to the LORD, for a sweet aroma; and its drink offering shall be of wine, one-fourth of a hin.”)
A spotless lamb and grain/oil offering accompany the sheaf.
Symbolizes:
- sacrifice
- sustenance (grain)
- joy/anointing (oil)
Messianic Meaning:
Resurrection is God'sacceptanceof Christ's offering.
(vs. 14) – You shall eat neither bread...until the same day...”
They could not eat the harvest until the firstfruits were offered.
New Testament Application:
All spiritual blessings beginwith Christ's resurrection.
Pentecost (Feast of Weeks)
(Leviticus 23:15-22)
(vs. 15-16 “And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed. (vs. 16) Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the LORD.”)
7 x 7 weeks = completion
50th day = Pentecost
Fulfillment:
Holy Spirit descended on Pentecost (Acts 2)
Beginning of the Church Age.
(vs. 17) - “Two wave loaves...baked with leaven”
Twoloaves = Jew + Gentile in one body
Baked with leaven= the Church still contains sinful people.
Key Insight:
This is theONLYfeast that is leaven.
(vs. 18-20)
Multiple offerings: burnt, sin, peace sacrifices.
Symbolizes the fullness of redemption Christ provides through the Spirit.
(vs. 21) - “A holy, convocation...do no servile work.”
Pentecost is a celebration ofrest through the Spirit, not works
(vs. 22) - “Leave the corners...for the poor and stranger”
A picture ofGentile inclusionin the harvest.
Prophetic Application:
During the Church Age, God is gathering a people from all nations.
Feast of Trumpets
(Lev. 23:23-25 “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 24) Speak to the children of Israel, saying: In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall have a sabbath-rest, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation. (vs. 25) You shall do no customary work on it; and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD.”)
(vs. 23-24) - “A memorial of blowing of trumpets”
Yom Teruah = day ofshouting/blasting
Signals awakening, gathering, announcement of a King
Prophetic Fulfillment (Pre-Trib Rapture)
(1 Thess. 4:16) - “trumpet of God”
(1 Cor. 15:52) - “last trump”
(Rev. 4:1) - “come up hither”
Theonly feaststarting on a day “no man knows” due to new moon sightings.
(vs. 25) - “Do not servile work...offer an offering”
A day of rest and attention
symbolizes suddenness, solemnity, and gathering
Prophetic Meaning:
Represents theRapture Event– the Church gathered into God's presence.
Day of Atonement
(Lev. 23:26-32 “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: (vs. 27) Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. (vs. 28) And you shall do no work on that same day, for it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the LORD your God. (vs. 29) For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day, that person I will destroy from among his people. (vs. 31) You shall do no manner of work; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings. (vs. 32) It shall be to you a sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; on the ninth day of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your sabbath.”)
(vs. 26-27) – It shall be a day of atonement...afflict your souls.”
Israel's national cleansing
“afflict your souls” = deep repentance, fasting
Messianic Meaning:
Fulfilled spiritually at the cross
Fulfilled prophetically when Israel recognizes Christ (Zech. 12:10 “And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.”)
(vs. 28-30)
Severe warnings: those who refuse repentance are cut off.
Points to Israel's future rejection/acceptance of Messiah.
Prophetic Meaning:
The remnant of Israel will be saved during the Tribulation (Rom. 11:26 “And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: THE DILIVERER WILL COME OUT OF ZION, AN DHE WILL TURN AWAY UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB;”)
(vs. 31-32)
Total rest; from evening to evening
Emphasizes the absolute holiness of this day.
Tabernacles
(Lev. 23:33-44 “Then LORD spoke to Moses, saying, (vs. 34) 'Speak to the children of Israel, saying: 'The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the Feast of tabernacles for seven days to the LORD. (vs. 35) On the first day there shall be a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work on it. (vs. 36) For seven days you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. On the eighth day you shall have a holy convocation, and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. It is a sacred assembly, and you shall no customary work on it. (vs. 37) These are the feasts of the LORD which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, to offer an offering made by fire to the LORD, a burnt offering and a grain offering, a sacrifice and drink offerings, everything on its day – (vs. 38) besides the Sabbaths of the LORD, besides your gifts, besides all your vows, and besides all your freewill offerings which you give to the LORD (vs. 39) Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall keep the feast of the LORD for seven days; on the first day there shall be a sabbath-rest, and on the eighth day a sabbath-rest. (vs. 40) And you shall take for yourselves on the first day the fruit of beautiful trees, branches of palm trees, the boughs of leafy trees, and willows of the brook; and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. (vs. 41) You shall keep it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It shall be a statute forever in your generations. You shall celebrate it in the seventh month. (vs. 42) You shall swell in booths for seven days. All who are native Israelites shall dwell in booths, (vs. 43) that your generations may know that I made the children of Israel swell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt; I am the LORD your God.'” (vs. 44) So Moses declared to the children of Israel the feasts of the LORD.”)
(vs. 33-34) “The fifteenth day... is the feast of tabernacles...seven days.”
Booths (sukkot) symbolize God's presence in the wilderness.
(vs. 35) “First day: holy convocation”
(vs. 36) “Eighth day: solemn assemble”
An unusual “eighth day” points to eternity/new creation.
(vs. 37-38)
These feasts supplement (not replace) regular sacrifices.
(vs. 39) “Ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days.”
After harvest-great joy and thanksgiving.
(vs. 40)
Take palm, willow, and leafy branches = celebration
(vs. 41-42)
Dwell in booths to remember God's care.
(vs. 43)
Teaches future generations God's faithfulness in the wilderness.
(vs. 44)
“And Moses declared...the feasts of the LORD.”
God's prophetic calendar revealed to Israel.

Prophetic Fulfillment Summary
Feast
First Coming
Present Age
Second Coming
Passover
Crucifixion
salvation
------------
Unleavened Bread
Burial
Sanctification
------------
Firstfruits
Resurrection
New Life
Our Resurrection
Pentecost
Holy Spirit
Church Age
------------
Trumpets
------------
Rapture Pre-Trib
------------
Atonement
Cross
-------------
Israel Saved at Christ Return
Tabernacles
Incarnation (shadow)
-------------
Millennium/New Heaven and Earth

“Gratitude Born From Gospel Fellowship”

Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.”

Paul's gratitude is not rooted in comfort, convenience, or circumstances – but inChrist-centered relationships.Writing from prison (Phil. 1:13), he teaches us that joy is not the absence of chains, but the presence of Christ and His people walking faithfully in truth.

“I thank my god upon every remembrance of you” - Gratitude Anchored in God

Paul does not merely thank the Philippians; he thanksGod for them. True spiritual gratitude recognizes that every faithful believer is the workmanship of God:

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” (Eph. 2:10)

Every remembrance becomes an altar of thanksgiving. Like Samuel, who said, “Thus far the LORD has helped us”(1 Sam. 7:12), Paul sees the church as evidence of God's sustaining grace.

“Always in every prayer...with joy” - Prayer Saturated: With Joy

Paul's prayers are not burdened by bitterness, but filled with joy. This joy is not emotional optimism – it is spiritual fruit:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace...”(Gal. 5:22)

Even while imprisoned, he fulfills the command:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Phil. 4:4)

Joy flows naturally when prayer focuses on God's work in others rather than our own trials.

“For your fellowship in the gospel” - Partnership, Not Proximity

The wordfellowship(Greek koinonia) meansactive participation and shared labor.The Philippians were not passive believers; they supported Paul financially (Phil. 4:15-16), prayed for him, and stood firm in doctrine.

This is the fellowship described elsewhere:

“We being many, are one body in Christ.” (Rom. 12:5)
“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship...” (Acts 2:42)

Christian fellowship is not social closeness – it isshared obedience to the gospel.

“From the first day until now” - Faithful Endurance

Their partnership was not seasonal. They remained steadfast:

“Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” (1 Cor. 4:2)

This echoes the perseverance of true believers:

“But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.” (Heb. 10:39)

Faith that endures produces joy in others and glory to God.

Closing Reflection

Philippians 1:3-5 teaches us that:
Gratitude grows when we see believers as God's work.
Joy deepens when prayer becomes our first response.
Fellowship flourishes when the gospel is central.
Thanksgiving multiplies when faith endures.

May our lives cause others to say, as Paul did:

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.”

And may our fellowship be found not merely in words, butin truth, labor, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to Christ:

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”(Heb. 10:23)

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We thank you for the gift of fellowship in the gospel and for the faithful brothers and sisters You have placed in our lives. Teach us to pray with joy, to love with sincerity and to serve with endurance. May our lives bring You glory and cause thanksgiving to rise in the hearts of others. Keep us steadfast in Christ until the day of His appearing.
In Jesus' holy and precious name, Amen.

Grace and Peace from God Our Father

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The apostle Paul opens his letter not with mere politeness, but with a declaration of spiritual reality. “Grace” and “peace” are not empty wishes; they are divine gifts flowing from the heart of God to His redeemed people.

Grace: God's Unmerited Gift in Christ

Grace is the fountainhead of the Christian life.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” (Eph. 2:8)

Grace is God's favor toward the undeserving, His power at work in weakness:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9)

Paul knew this grace personally:

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.” (1 Cor. 15:10)

When Paul says, “Grace to you,” he is speaking of God's continuing supply – saving grace, sustaining grace, sanctifying grace.

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

Peace: The Fruit of Grace Received

Peace always follows grace. You cannot have true peace with God or within your soul until you have first received His grace.

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom. 5:1)

This peace is not dependent on circumstances:

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” (John 14:27)

It guards the believer's heart:

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

The Source: God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Grace and peace come from a Person, not a principle.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights.” (James 1:17)

And they are mediated through Christ:

“For of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.” (John 1:16)
“He Himself is our peace.” (Eph. 2:14)

Notice Paul places the Father and the Son together, equal in divine authority and love. The blessing of grace and peace flows from the throne of God through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

A Truth to Rest In

Believer, today you do not strive for grace – you receive it. You do not manufacture peace – you walk in it.

“The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.” (Psalm 29:11)

Whatever your trial, your weakness, or your calling, God greets you as He greeted the Philippian church:

Grace to you.
Peace to you.
From God your Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your abundant grace given to us through Jesus Christ, and for the peace that guards our hearts and minds. Teach us to rest in what You have freely provided, to walk humbly in Your strength, and to trust You in every circumstance. May Your grace sustain us today, and may Your peace rule within us for Your glory.

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

I have been working on a book of devotions from the book of Philippians. I hope that they will be a blessing.

Philippians 1:1 A Bondservant's Greeting

Devotional on Philippians 1:1
“Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons” (Phil. 1:1 NKJV)

The apostle Paul opens this epistle not with his title as an apostle, nor with a defense of his authority, but with a humble confession of identity: “bondservants of Jesus Christ.”

The wordbondservant(Greek: doulos) means a slave by choice – one who belongs wholly to another. Paul, once a proud Pharisee (Phil. 3:5-6), now glories in belonging to Christ alone.

“You are not your own. For you were bought at a price” (1 Cor. 6:19-20)

True freedom is not found in self-rule, but in joyful surrender to a perfect Master.

“If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (Jn. 8:36)

Paul does not elevate himself above the church; instead, he stands beside them as a fellow servant. Authority in God's kingdom flows from humility.

“Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” (Mark 10:43)
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus...he made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant.” (Phil. 2:5-7)

“To all the saints in Christ Jesus”
Paul addresses ordinary believers with an extraordinary title:saints– holy ones, set apart by God.

Not saints by perfection, but by position.

“But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but your were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (1 Cor. 6:11)
“He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame.” (Eph. 1:4)

Their holiness is rooted not in Philippi, not in performance, but “inChrist Jesus.”

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 8:1)
“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Cor. 5:17)

This little phrase – in Christ – is the heartbeat of Christian identity. It speaks of union, safety, righteousness, inheritance, and life.

“Your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Col. 3:3)
“With bishops and deacons”

Paul also recognizes God's order within the church – spiritual leadership and faithful service working together.

“God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” (1 Cor. 14:33)

The church is not built on personalities but on Christ, with each member serving in their calling.

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit...But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.” (1 Cor. 12:4,7)

Devotional Reflection

Philippians 1:1 teaches us three holy truths:
Our identity –we are servants before we are anything else.
Our position– we are saints because we are in Christ.
Our community– we belong to a body, ordered and purposeful.

Paul's greeting is not merely formal – it is foundational. Before he speaks of joy, suffering, unity, or perseverance, he reminds uswho we are and whose we are.

“Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Rom. 12:1)

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Teach us to glory not in our titles, but in being Your servants. Thank You that in Christ Jesus we are called saints, clothed in His righteousness. Help us walk worthy of this calling, in humility, love, and faithful service. May our lives declare, “Jesus is Lord.”
In His holy name, Amen.

Settling for Far Less
 
      I know that many are settling for far less than God is waiting to give. They try to stay happy by adding something to their religion that tickles their carnality from the outside. They introduce converted cowboys and half-converted movie actors, and I think they would even stoop to talking horses and gospel dogs to be able to join in saying, “We had a wonderful time!” They will pay a big price to feature some “ninety-day wonder” so they can get the people to crowd in.
      Such as these are mediocre Christians. They have not gained the heights where they can feel the warmth of the sun and yet they are not far enough down to be frozen in the valley.
      Certainly God is not honored by our arrested development—our permanent halfway spiritual condition. We honor and please Him by going on to full maturity in Christ. We all know that this is what the Bible teaches. Read your New Testament again and you will agree that mediocrity in the Christian life is not the highest that Jesus offers.
      Why, then, are we such common Christians? Why have we settled for such shallow pleasures, those little joys that tickle the saintlets and charm the fancy of the carnal?
      It is because we once heard a call to take up the cross, and instead of following toward the heights, we bargained with the Lord like a Maxwell Street huckster. We started asking selfish questions and laying down our own conditions.
      We had seen the finger of God beckoning. We had been stirred by His Spirit, and all aglow with desire, we considered going up to the mountain. We felt an urge to be spent for Christ, to live as near to spiritual perfection as it is possible in this life.
      However, instead of going on we started asking questions. We began to bicker and bargain with God about His standards for spiritual attainment.
      This is plain truth, not about unbelieving “liberals” but about those who have been born again. We have His life—and yet when He calls us to the heights, we begin to quibble and bargain.
      “Lord, what will it cost me?” we ask. “I want to go on, but I want to know what it will cost me!”
      I am convinced that anyone who brings up the question of consequences in the Christian life is only a mediocre and common Christian. He seems to have completely forgotten that the cross is involved at this point. Jesus Himself plainly said, “Take up Kama Emma cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23), and “If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man

March 17
Resurrection Victory for Effective Christian Living
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1Co 15:57-58)


The resurrection of Jesus Christ brings spiritual victory over sin and death to all who believe in Him. "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." As we allow the Lord to be our guide through each day, He "leads us in triumph in Christ" (2Co 2:14). When this process is unfolding, an effective Christian life is developing, by the grace of God at work in us.

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast." It is the will of God that our lives be marked by steadfastness (constancy and stability). Paul rejoiced concerning fellow believers who manifested such attributes: "rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ" (Col 2:5). He later added that they were to be "rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith" (Col 2:7).

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be . . . immovable." Our heavenly Father also wants us to be "immovable" (firmly persistent, unable to be swayed). Paul was a good example of this. Although he faced many threatening difficulties, he professed "But none of these things move me" (Act 20:24). When Paul wrote to the saints at Ephesus, he warned of another threat to spiritual persistency: "that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine" (Eph 4:14).

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be . . . always abounding in the work of the Lord." Our Lord wants us to be abundantly laboring with Him. This is one of the purposes of Jesus' redemptive work for us: "Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works" (Tit 2:14). Yes, living by grace will produce abounding good works. The glorious fact is that such labors are actually the Lord at work in and through us: "always abounding in the work of the Lord." As the Lord sustains His work with us, we can grow in a certainty that this kind of laboring will be effective: "knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

Note the key word that indicates the basis for all of these desirable traits: "Therefore." This refers back to the resurrection victory provided by the Lord Jesus. In light of this victorious work of Christ on our behalf, anyone trusting in this reality will find these spiritual virtues developing in their lives, by the grace of God at work.

Dear Lord, I long to walk in spiritual stability. I yearn for a life that cannot be swayed. I want to abundantly labor with You. Therefore, Lord, I place my confidence in the reality of Your resurrection victory. Work in me by Your grace, I pray, Amen.

Will It Be Safe?
 
      Another question that people ask of the Lord when He calls them to move forward is: “Will it be safe?”
      This question comes out of our constant bleating about “security” and our everlasting desire for safety above all else.
      We ought to be prepared to the fact that faith has a disturbing element within it. In the days of Luther, when it cost something to be a Christian, the old Lutherans said: “Faith is a perturbing thing.”
      Dare we face the fact that the Word of God more often than not puts us in a place of peril rather than settling us down easily in a place of security? But most Christians in our day want to dictate to God—they will not accept a place of peril. They do not want to trust.
      Some of us have had a delightful experience with a Christian brother from England. He had formerly made money in business and never went anywhere without taking large sums with him. But the Holy Spirit began dealing with him about God’s provision and God’s resources. Sharing his experience with us, he said: “My wife and I have committed everything to God. We don’t even own a house. We have no regular income. I do the work of an evangelist and we are just out doing God’s will.
      “It is not at all unusual now for us to get in our car and travel several hundred miles with only ten dollars for expenses and not knowing what the next step will be,” he told us. “God is spending us. He will not let us down but He is holding us to it so that we will never be able to get our earthly roots in again.”
      This is the language of the confident Christian who is going on with God. That question, “Is it safe?” is an ignoble question. What is the difference whether it is safe or not as long as He is our Lord?

The Little Word “But”
The gospel call rings clear and true,
Christ died for sinners—me and you.
His blood was shed, His love was shown,
A grace the world has never known.
The Spirit whispers to the heart,
“Come now to Christ, make a new start.
Your sins forgiven, your soul set free—
Eternal life is offered thee.”
And yet a word so small is heard,
A quiet pause… a single word.
“But.”
“But I have time, another day.”
“But I have plans along my way.”
“But I’m not ready yet to bow.”
“But I’ll come later—just not now.”
“But I have lived too wild, too long.”
“But I must fix what I’ve done wrong.”
“But what will friends and family say?”
“But I’ll believe… some other day.”
A tiny word upon the tongue,
So brief it hardly seems among
The weighty things that men may say—
Yet souls are lost through it each day.
For “but” becomes a hardened door
That shuts the heart forevermore.
A fragile breath, a passing span—
No promise comes to mortal man.
The Scripture warns with solemn plea:
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NKJV)
Tomorrow is a mist, a breath,
A step away from sudden death.
And when eternity appears,
There are no buts beyond the years.
No “but I meant to.”
No “but I planned.”
No “but I almost took His hand.”
The word once small will thunder loud
Among the lost and hopeless crowd.
“But I was close…” the sinner cries.
“But I believed…” the voice replies.
“But I delayed… I meant to come…”
While heaven’s gate and mercy’s done.
O friend, cast down that little word—
Let not its whisper still be heard.
For Christ has paid redemption’s cost,
Why linger still and die lost?
The cross still stands, the Savior calls,
His mercy waits while grace yet falls.
No “but,” no delay—come just as you are.
“That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
— Romans 10:9 (NKJV)
So lay aside that word today—
Let faith arise, and do not say…
“But.”

The War of Gog and Magog

Ezekiel 38-39 – Pre-Trib Prophetic Outline

I. The Prophecy Against Gog (Ezekiel 38:1-6)

“Now the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, set your face against Gog, of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal, and prophesy against him, and say, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, I am against you, O Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal.” (Ezekiel 38:1-3)

The Key Leader:Gog

Gog is not the land itself but the ruler or leader.

In prophetic interpretation:

Gog = the leader
Magog = the land or people he rules

Historically (Josephus):

Magog was associated with Scythian people north of Israel.

The Coalition Nations

Ezekiel lists a military alliance:

Ancient Name Common Modern Region
Magog Russia/Central Asia Region

Meshech Turkey

Tubal Turkey

Persia Iran

Cush Sudan/Ethiopia

Put Libya/North Africa

Gomer Turkey/Eastern Europe

Beth-Togarmah Turkey/Armenia

This is essentially a northern and Middle Eastern coalition surrounding Israel.

Notice something remarkable:

Most of these regions today are politically hostile toward Israel.

This alignment was almost unimaginable when Israel was scattered before 1948.
II. God Draws the Invaders (Ezekiel 38:4-9)

“I will turn you around, put hooks into your jaws, and lead you out...” (Ezekiel 38:4)

God is sovereign over the invasion.

This language mirrors how ancient kings dragged conquered enemies with hooks.
NOTE: In the ancient Near East, conquering kings sometimes humiliated and controlled capture enemies by dragging them with hooks.
How it worked:
Victorious armies – especially the Assyrians and Babylonians – would place metal hooks or rings through a captives nose, lip, or jaw. A rope or chain was then attached so prisoners could be led in a line like animals during forced marches back to the conqueror's city.
This practice served three purposes:
1. Control – It prevented prisoners form escaping.
2. Humiliation – It publicly demonstrated the conqueror's total domination.
3. Warning – It intimidated other nations who might rebel.
So, when God's Word in Ezekiel 38:4 says “I will turn you around, put hooks into your jaws, and lead you out...”, the imagery means:
God will treat Gog like a captured enemy king – dragging him into a battle he cannot escape, ultimately for judgment.
The Timing: “Latter Years”

“In the latter years you will come into the land of those brought back from the sword...” (Ezekiel 38:8)

This describes regathered Israel!

Israel must:

return to the land
become a nation again

This happened in 1948.

The dispensational scholars point to this as a key prophetic prerequisite.

III. Israel Dwelling Securely (Ezekiel 38:10-12)

“I will go up against a land of unwalled villages...” (Ezekiel 38:11)

Ancient cities had walls for protection.

Israel here appears:

prosperous
unsuspecting
relatively secure
Some pre-trib teachers believe this security may come through a political treaty (possibly related to Daniel 9:27).

The Motivation

“To take plunder and to take booty...” (Ezekiel 38:12)

The invaders want economic gain.

Possible motivations often discussed:

Israel's natural gas reserves
Strategic land position
Wealth and technology

The Bible simply says”

Greed motivates the invasion.

IV. The World Protests but Does Nothing (Ezekiel 38:13)

“Sheba, Dedan, the merchants of Tarshish...” (Ezekiel 38:13)

These nations issue a protest but not intervention.

Many prophecy teachers associate these with:

Arabian Peninsula
Western trade powers

The response is basically:

“Are you invading for spoil?”

But they do nothing militarily.

V. The Invasion from the Far North (Ezekiel 38:14-16)

“Then you will come form your place out of the far north...” (Ezekiel 38:15)

Israel's most direct northern route historically points toward Russia and the Eurasian region.

Repeatedly Ezekiel emphasizes:

“The far north.”

God's Purpose

“I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me...” (Ezekiel 38:16)

This war is ultimately about:

The glory of God.

God uses this invasion to reveal Himself to the world.

VI. God Supernaturally Destroys the Army (Ezekiel 38:17-23)

God intervenes dramatically.

The Judgments

1. A massive earthquake

“Surely in that day there shall be a great earthquake” (Ezekiel 38:19)

Mountains collapse and terrain changes.

2. Confusion among the armies

“Every man's sword will be against his brother” (Ezekiel 38:21)

3. Pestilence and bloodshed

“I will bring him to judgment with pestilence and bloodshed” (Ezekiel 38:22)

4. Torrential rain, hail, fire, brimstone

This resembles Sodom's destruction.
The Result

“Thus I will magnify Myself and sanctify Myself...”

The world will know:

The God of Israel is real!

VII. The Complete Destruction of Gog's Army (Ezekiel 39:1-6)

God continues describing the judgment.

“I will leave but one-sixth of you...”

Meaning five-sixths of the army dies.

This is one of the largest military destruction's in prophetic Scripture.

VIII. The Cleanup (Ezekiel 39:9-16)

Two major details appear.

1. Seven years burning weapons

“They will make fires with the weapons...for seven years.” (Ezekiel 39:9)

The destroyed military equipment becomes fuel.

2. Seven months burying the dead

“For seven months the house of Israel will be burying them...” (Ezekiel 39:12)

This emphasizes the massive scale of the battle.

A valley is named:

The Valley of Hamon-Gog (“multitude of Gog”)

IX. God Restores Israel Spiritually (Ezekiel 39:21-29)

After the victory God declares:

“The house of Israel shall know that I am the LORD their God from that day forward.”

God promises:

restoration
protection
spiritual awakening

X. Where This War Fits in Pre-Trib Timeline

Typical Pre-Trib sequence:

1. Church Age
2. Rapture of the Church
3. Gog-Magog war (Ezekiel 38-39)
4. Rise of the Antichrist
5. Tribulation begins (Daniel 9:27)
6. Armageddon
7. Second Coming of Christ
8. Millennial Kingdom

Some place the Gog war just before the Tribulation begins, others early in it.

XI. Why This War is NOT Armageddon

Key differences:

Ezekiel 38-39 War Armageddon

Northern coalition All nations

Israel unsuspecting Israel besieged

God destroys invaders directly Christ returns visibly

7 months burial Immediate kingdom transition

Therefore most dispensational scholars see two separate wars.

XII. Theological Message

The prophecy emphasizes three truths.

1. God controls nations

Even hostile powers are tools in His plan.

2. God protects Israel

Despite centuries of persecution:
Israel survives because of God's covenant.

3. God will reveal Himself to the world

The purpose is repeated:

“The nations shall know that I am the LORD.”

XIII. Evangelistic Implication

These prophecies remind us:

History is moving towards God's final kingdom.

And salvation comes only through Jesus Christ.
Romans 10:9 “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him form the dead, you will be saved.”

XIV. Summary of the Gog Coalition

Ancient Name Modern Region

Magog Russia/Central Asia

Meshech Turkey

Tubal Turkey

Persia Iran

Cush Sudan/Ethiopia

Put Libya

Gomer Turkey/Eastern Europe

Beth-Togarmah Turkey/Armenia

This forms a massive northern alliance surrounding Israel.