Where to Begin Reading the Bible?

What Happens When You Copy Jesus?

What Happens When You Copy Jesus?When we aim to copy Jesus, we seek to live in a way that reflects His love, humility, and obedience to God. Jesus serves as the ultimate example of how to live a godly life. Following His example brings us closer to fulfilling God's will, transforming our hearts, and impacting the world around us with His love.Living Like JesusIn 1 John 2:6, it is written, "He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." This verse encourages believers to imitate Jesus' actions, teachings, and attitudes. Jesus' life shows us how to love others, serve humbly, and live in obedience to God's commandments.The Transformative Power of Imitating JesusWhen we copy Jesus, our lives are transformed. The process of becoming more like Him is called sanctification. Through the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to live out Christ's character. As we reflect His love and grace, we become more effective in sharing the gospel with others.Why This MattersCopying Jesus means allowing His example to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. As we follow Him, we fulfill our calling as Christians and grow into the image of Christ, becoming agents of His love and mercy in the world.

Why Can't You Say "I Can't Read God"?

Why Can't You Say "I Can't Read God"? In a world where people often feel disconnected from God, the statement "I can't read God" might reflect a sense of difficulty in understanding His Word or His will. However, the Bible tells us that God’s Word is accessible and that through the Holy Spirit, we are able to understand it (John 14:26). Saying that you "can’t read God" is, in a sense, denying the opportunity that God provides for His people to know Him through His Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God’s Word is Accessible In the Old Testament, God revealed Himself to His people through the law, the prophets, and the psalms. In the New Testament, He revealed Himself most fully through Jesus Christ, who is the living Word of God (John 1:1-14). As believers, we are invited to read and meditate on the Scriptures, which are inspired by God and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible is not a closed book but is designed to be accessible to anyone who seeks to understand it. The Role of the Holy Spirit Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide His followers into all truth (John 16:13). The Holy Spirit illuminates the Scriptures and enables believers to understand and apply God’s Word to their lives. When you say "I can’t read God," it may reflect a lack of trust in the Spirit’s ability to help you interpret the Bible. God desires that His people know Him and that His Word be a source of wisdom and guidance. By relying on the Holy Spirit, believers can gain understanding and clarity in their study of the Bible. Overcoming Doubts and Difficulties If you're struggling to understand the Bible, you're not alone. Many people face difficulties in interpreting certain passages or understanding how Scripture applies to their lives. However, God has provided resources to help us, including pastors, teachers, and study materials that explain the Bible's meaning. In addition, we can always pray for understanding, trusting that God will give wisdom to those who seek it with a sincere heart (James 1:5). Conclusion The statement "I can’t read God" may indicate a struggle, but it is important to remember that God's Word is accessible and understandable. With the help of the Holy Spirit, prayer, and community, Christians can grow in their understanding of God’s will through the Bible.

Is It Blasphemy to Say We Are Gods?

Is It Blasphemy to Say We Are Gods? The statement “we are gods” raises a significant theological question in Christianity. Blasphemy refers to showing disrespect or irreverence toward God, and in the Bible, it is considered a serious offense. The idea that humans are gods is not consistent with traditional Christian doctrine, which teaches that there is one true God, and that humans are created by God, but not divine themselves. Thus, claiming to be gods or equating oneself with God could be seen as a form of blasphemy, depending on the context and intent. 1. Biblical Teachings on Blasphemy Blasphemy, in its most serious form, involves claiming to be God or speaking against God in a way that diminishes His divinity. In the Old Testament, the penalty for blasphemy was severe. In Leviticus 24:16, it is written, “And he that blasphemeth the name of the Lord, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him.” In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was accused of blasphemy by the religious leaders when He claimed to be the Son of God, a title that they believed equated Him with God (John 10:33-36). 2. The Concept of Humans as Gods The Bible teaches that God is one, eternal, and sovereign, and that humans, although made in His image, are not divine. The idea of humans becoming gods or equating themselves with God is not supported in the Christian faith. In Isaiah 43:10, God declares, “Before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.” Jesus, in His earthly ministry, emphasized that He is the only way to God the Father (John 14:6). Any attempt to elevate oneself to the status of God contradicts these fundamental teachings of Christianity. 3. The Danger of Pride and Self-Deification In Christian thought, claiming to be gods is often linked to pride and self-deification, which can lead to spiritual deception. This type of thinking may resemble the sin of Lucifer, who sought to exalt himself above God, as described in Isaiah 14:12-15. Jesus warned against pride and emphasized humility, teaching that greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in serving others (Matthew 23:11-12). 4. Conclusion In Christianity, saying “we are gods” is generally seen as blasphemous because it contradicts the foundational belief in the one true God. While humans are made in the image of God, they are not divine. Claiming to be gods is an affront to God’s sovereignty and divinity and can lead to spiritual pride and deception. It is important for Christians to remember their place as created beings, humble before God, and to honor His supremacy above all else.

How Long Was Jesus on Earth After His Resurrection?

How Long Was Jesus on Earth After His Resurrection?After Jesus’ resurrection, He remained on earth for a period of 40 days, during which He appeared to His disciples and others, providing further teachings and affirmations of His divine mission. This period served as a preparation for His ascension into heaven, where He would return to the Father and send the Holy Spirit to empower His followers.Post-Resurrection AppearancesFirst Appearance: Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene in the garden near the tomb after His resurrection (John 20:14-17). He then appeared to His disciples multiple times, showing them His wounds and demonstrating that He was alive.To the Disciples: Jesus appeared to His disciples on several occasions, including the famous event on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). He also appeared in the upper room to Thomas, who doubted the resurrection (John 20:26-29).Teaching and Commanding: During these 40 days, Jesus continued to teach His disciples, explaining the fulfillment of prophecies and instructing them to preach the Gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). He also gave them the Great Commission to spread His message of salvation.Significance of the 40 DaysThe 40 days following the resurrection were significant in several ways. The number 40 is often associated with preparation and testing in Scripture. For example, Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai receiving the Law (Exodus 34:28), and Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). These 40 days of Jesus' appearances were meant to affirm His resurrection and prepare His disciples for their mission ahead.The AscensionAt the end of the 40 days, Jesus ascended to heaven in the presence of His disciples. In Acts 1:9-11 (KJV), it says, "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight." This marks the conclusion of His time on earth and His return to the Father, preparing the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (Acts 2).ConclusionJesus was on earth for 40 days after His resurrection, teaching His disciples and affirming the truth of His resurrection before ascending to heaven. This period was crucial in strengthening the faith of His followers and preparing them for the work they would carry out in His name (Acts 1:8).