How Was Jesus Tempted?

What Will Happen When Jesus Returns?

What Will Happen When Jesus Returns? The return of Jesus Christ is one of the central themes in Christian eschatology. The Bible teaches that Jesus will return to earth at the end of time, fulfilling God's promises and bringing ultimate justice. In Acts 1:11 (KJV), the angels proclaim, "This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." His return is expected to be visible and undeniable, accompanied by heavenly glory and power. Signs of Jesus' Return Several passages in the Bible describe signs that will precede the return of Jesus. In Matthew 24:30 (KJV), Jesus says, "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." These signs include wars, natural disasters, and a great apostasy, all signaling that the end of the age is near. However, the Bible also makes clear that no one knows the exact time of His return, as discussed in Matthew 24:36 (KJV). The Judgment and the New Heaven When Jesus returns, He will judge the living and the dead. In 2 Timothy 4:1 (KJV), Paul writes, "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom." Those who have accepted Christ will receive eternal life, while those who have rejected Him will face eternal separation from God. After this judgment, there will be the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, as described in Revelation 21:1 (KJV), "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea."

Why Did Jesus Weep?

Why Did Jesus Weep?Jesus wept on several occasions in the Bible, demonstrating His deep compassion, empathy, and understanding of human suffering. The most famous instance occurs in John 11:35, at the tomb of Lazarus, where the shortest verse in the Bible simply states, "Jesus wept."Instances of Jesus Weeping1. At Lazarus’s Tomb: Jesus wept when He saw the grief of Mary, Martha, and the others mourning Lazarus’s death (John 11:33-36). His tears reflect His empathy and sorrow over the pain caused by death, even though He knew He would raise Lazarus.2. Over Jerusalem: In Luke 19:41-44, Jesus wept for Jerusalem, lamenting its rejection of Him and foreseeing its destruction. His sorrow highlights His love and longing for the city to embrace salvation.The Significance of Jesus’ Tears1. Empathy and Humanity: Jesus’ weeping shows His full humanity and His ability to empathize with human grief and loss.2. Divine Compassion: His tears reveal the heart of God, who grieves over suffering and desires redemption for all.Why This MattersJesus’ tears remind believers that He understands their struggles and sorrows. They offer assurance of His presence, love, and compassion in times of pain and grief.

Did Jesus Celebrate Hanukkah?

Did Jesus Celebrate Hanukkah?Yes, Jesus likely observed Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Dedication. The Bible references His presence at the temple during this festival, highlighting its significance in Jewish tradition and Jesus’ connection to His cultural and religious heritage.Biblical Reference to HanukkahJohn 10:22-23: "And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch." This passage indicates Jesus’ participation in the festival, which commemorates the rededication of the temple after the Maccabean revolt.The Significance of HanukkahHistorical Context: Hanukkah celebrates the restoration of Jewish worship and God’s faithfulness in preserving His people during a time of oppression.Jesus’ Presence: By being at the temple during Hanukkah, Jesus affirmed His connection to Jewish traditions while also revealing His identity as the Light of the World (John 8:12), a theme echoed in the festival’s menorah lighting.ConclusionJesus observed Hanukkah as part of His Jewish heritage. His presence at the temple during this festival underscores His role in fulfilling Jewish law and prophecy while pointing to His divine mission.

How to Start a Church?

Starting a Church: A Step-by-Step Guide Starting a church is both a spiritual calling and a practical responsibility. It begins with prayer and seeking God’s guidance. Matthew 18:20 reminds us, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Here are the essential steps to start a church. 1. Confirm Your Calling Ensure that you are called by God to this mission. Prayerfully reflect on scriptures like Jeremiah 1:5, where God says, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." 2. Gather a Core Group Form a group of like-minded believers who share your vision. The early church grew in fellowship as described in Acts 2:42: "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." 3. Define Your Mission and Vision Clearly outline your church’s purpose. What will be your focus? Evangelism, discipleship, or community service? Proverbs 29:18 reminds us, "Where there is no vision, the people perish." 4. Legal and Structural Setup Register your church as a legal entity, and create a statement of faith. Establish leadership roles based on 1 Timothy 3:1-7, which outlines qualifications for church leaders. 5. Choose a Location Find a physical or virtual meeting place. Remember, the early church met in homes as noted in Romans 16:5: "Likewise greet the church that is in their house." 6. Preach the Word Your main mission is to share the gospel. 2 Timothy 4:2 exhorts, "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." Starting a church requires prayer, planning, and persistence, but with God’s guidance, it is a fulfilling way to serve Him and others.