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Biblically Accurate / Bybels Akkuraat
Before I delve into this Topic, let it be said, no matter who is in office, whether or not we voted for them, the Bible commands us to give them respect and honor (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). We should also be praying for those placed in authority over us (Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; 1 Timothy 2:2). We can vehemently disagree with our political leaders, and we can strongly oppose their policies, but that does not negate the biblical commands to submit to and honor them.
Politics is always going to be a difficult issue for Christians. We are in this world but are not to be of this world (1 John 2:15). We can be involved in politics, but we should not be obsessed with politics. Ultimately, we are to be heavenly-minded, more concerned with the things of God than the things of this world (Colossians 3:1-2). As believers in Jesus Christ, we are all members of the same political party—monarchists who are waiting for their King to return (Revelation 19:11-16). That is the most important thing to remember. Politics is not the solution. Jesus is the solution. No politician, no government is ever going to solve all of the problems in this world. Only Jesus Christ can accomplish that, and one day, He will (Revelation 21—22).
Aside from abortion, I see a great deal of freedom regarding a Christian’s political views. Biblically speaking, abortion is the murder of a human being created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27; 9:6; Exodus 21:22-25; Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5). That a Christian should be pro-life would seem, to me, abundantly biblically clear. With most other political issues, however, there are not explicitly biblical commands or principles.
Take universal healthcare for example. Should a government force everyone to pay into a system so that healthcare is available for everyone? This sounds like a noble idea. Surely everyone having access to healthcare is a good thing. But, is a government forcing everyone to pay the right method? Take social programs for example (social security, welfare). Yes, we are to care for the poor, orphans, and the elderly (James 1:27). But, biblically speaking, is this the responsibility of the government, or of the body of Christ? Should the government, through taxation, force people to help the poor? Or, should people have the freedom to help the poor, or not help the poor, based on their own convictions and abilities?
Conservatives prefer smaller government, less taxation, less regulation, and more freedom. Liberals/progressives are willing to sacrifice some freedom in order to accomplish what they believe to be the greater good. Conservatives are wary of government, recognizing that as governments grow they begin to oppress people. Liberals/progressives believe government coercion is the only way to get people to help the less fortunate. Conservatives believe a limited government is the key to a free and prosperous society. Liberals/progressives believe that some freedom and prosperity should be sacrificed in favor of providing a safety net for the poor.
Let me make this abundantly clear. While I have a general distaste for politicians no matter the party they belong to, I am unashamedly politically conservative. I have a severe distrust of government. I believe it is the most inefficient and ineffective way to accomplish most things. While I strongly disagree with liberals/progressives on most political issues, and while I believe liberals/progressives are terribly misguided and naive about what big government will eventually result in, I strive to not question their motives.
Simply put, I do not believe the government is the solution for everything. I think conservative politics is a better choice than liberal/progressive politics, but I do not place any faith, trust, or hope in politicians to fix what is wrong with the world.
Voordat ek in hierdie onderwerp delf, laat dit gesê word, ongeag wie in die amp is, of ons vir hulle gestem het of nie, die Bybel beveel ons om hulle respek en eer te gee (Romeine 13:1-7; 1 Petrus 2:13-17). Ons moet ook bid vir diegene wat in gesagsposisies oor ons geplaas is (Kolossense 4:2; 1 Tessalonisense 5:17; 1 Timoteus 2:2). Ons kan heftig met ons politieke leiers verskil, en ons kan hul beleide sterk teenstaan, maar dit ontken nie die Bybelse bevele om ons aan hulle te onderwerp en te eer nie.
Politiek gaan altyd ‘n moeilike kwessie vir Christene wees. Ons is in hierdie wêreld, maar moet nie van hierdie wêreld wees nie (1 Johannes 2:15). Ons kan by die politiek betrokke wees, maar ons moet nie obsessief wees oor politiek nie. Uiteindelik moet ons hemelsgesind wees, meer besorg oor die dinge van God as oor die dinge van hierdie wêreld (Kolossense 3:1-2). As gelowiges in Jesus Christus is ons almal lede van dieselfde politieke party – monargiste wat wag vir hul Koning se terugkeer (Openbaring 19:11-16). Dit is die belangrikste ding om te onthou. Politiek is nie die oplossing nie. Jesus is die oplossing. Geen politikus, geen regering gaan ooit al die probleme in hierdie wêreld oplos nie. Slegs Jesus Christus kan dit bereik, en eendag sal Hy (Openbaring 21-22).
Afgesien van aborsie, sien ek ‘n groot mate van vryheid rakende ‘n Christen se politieke sienings. Bybels gesproke is aborsie die moord op ‘n mens wat na die beeld van God geskape is (Genesis 1:26-27; 9:6; Eksodus 21:22-25; Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremia 1:5). Dat ‘n Christen pro-lewe moet wees, lyk vir my oorvloedig Bybels duidelik. Met die meeste ander politieke kwessies is daar egter nie eksplisiet Bybelse bevele of beginsels nie.
Neem byvoorbeeld universele gesondheidsorg. Moet ‘n regering almal dwing om in ‘n stelsel in te betaal sodat gesondheidsorg vir almal beskikbaar is? Dit klink na ‘n edele idee. Dit is sekerlik ‘n goeie ding as almal toegang tot gesondheidsorg het. Maar dwing ‘n regering almal om op die regte manier te betaal? Neem byvoorbeeld sosiale programme (maatskaplike sekerheid, welsyn). Ja, ons moet sorg vir die armes, weeskinders en bejaardes (Jakobus 1:27). Maar, Bybels gesproke, is dit die verantwoordelikheid van die regering, of van die liggaam van Christus? Moet die regering, deur belasting, mense dwing om die armes te help? Of moet mense die vryheid hê om die armes te help, of nie die armes te help nie, gebaseer op hul eie oortuigings en vermoëns?
Konserwatiewes verkies kleiner regering, minder belasting, minder regulering en meer vryheid. Liberale/progressiewe is bereid om ‘n mate van vryheid op te offer om te bereik wat hulle glo die groter goed is. Konserwatiewes is versigtig vir die regering en erken dat soos regerings groei, hulle mense begin onderdruk. Liberale/progressiewe glo dat regeringsdwang die enigste manier is om mense te kry om die minderbevoorregtes te help. Konserwatiewes glo dat ‘n beperkte regering die sleutel tot ‘n vrye en voorspoedige samelewing is. Liberale/progressiewe glo dat ‘n mate van vryheid en voorspoed opgeoffer moet word ten gunste van die verskaffing van ‘n veiligheidsnet vir die armes.
Laat ek dit baie duidelik stel. Terwyl ek ‘n algemene afkeer het van politici, ongeag aan watter party hulle behoort, is ek onbeskaamd polities konserwatief. Ek het ‘n ernstige wantroue in die regering. Ek glo dit is die mees ondoeltreffende en oneffektiewe manier om die meeste dinge te bereik. Terwyl ek sterk verskil van liberale/progressiewe oor die meeste politieke kwessies, en terwyl ek glo dat liberale/progressiewe verskriklik misleidend en naïef is oor wat ‘n groot regering uiteindelik tot gevolg sal hê, streef ek daarna om nie hul motiewe te bevraagteken nie.
Eenvoudig gestel, ek glo nie die regering is die oplossing vir alles nie. Ek dink konserwatiewe politiek is ‘n beter keuse as liberale/progressiewe politiek, maar ek plaas geen geloof, vertroue of hoop in politici om reg te stel wat verkeerd is met die wêreld nie.
Bible Verse and Prayer for Today;
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
Matthew 6:6
Prayer
Lord . to me Prayer is a personal thing . a communication time with the Great God of the universe . respect and holiness is the topic of prayer and done in the chambers in private . please help us with this lord . we pray in Jesus name , amen and amen
Bybel Vers en Gebed vir Vandag
Maar jy, wanneer jy bid, gaan in jou binnekamer en wanneer jy jou deur toegemaak het, bid tot jou Vader wat in die verborgene is; en jou Vader wat in die verborgene sien, sal jou in die openbaar vergelde.
Matteus 6:6
Gebed
Here. Vir my is gebed ‘n persoonlike ding. ‘n Kommunikasietyd met die Grote God van die heelal. Respek en heiligheid is die onderwerp van gebed en word in die binnekamers in privaatheid gedoen. Help ons asseblief hiermee, Here. Ons bid in Jesus se Naam, amen en amen.
Bible Teaching of the Day
The day of Preparation
All four Gospels state that Jesus was crucified on the Day of Preparation (Matthew 27:62; Mark 15:42; Luke 23:54; John 19:14, 31, 42). Mark, Luke, and John all state that the following day was the Sabbath. John’s account uses this wording: “It was the day of Preparation of the Passover” (John 19:14). The question becomes, since Jesus was killed on the Day of Preparation, why had He already observed the Passover with His disciples (Matthew 26:17–29; Mark 14:12–25; Luke 22:7–22; John 13:1–30)?
First, we should discard the theory that the writers of the New Testament made a mistake. Theorizing that all four of the Gospel writers got the chronology wrong stretches credulity to the breaking point. Are we really to believe that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all forgot what they had written from one chapter to the next? No, there must be a better explanation for why Jesus ate the Passover before the Day of Preparation.
Next, we need to identify what the Day of Preparation was preparing for. Every week, preparations had to be made for the Sabbath—food had to be prepared ahead of time. This led to the “Day of Preparation” becoming the common term for “Friday.” Although many preparations also had to be made for the Passover, there is no record of “Passover Eve” being called the Day of Preparation. The Day of Preparation was always Friday, the day before the Sabbath. Mark 15:42 makes this clear.
How then do we explain John’s statement that Jesus died on “the day of Preparation of the Passover” (John 19:14)? It’s quite possible that John simply meant that this particular Friday fell during Passover week; we could understand his words this way: “It was the day of Preparation, the one that happened to come during the season of Passover.” So, the Day of Preparation was to prepare for the Sabbath, not the Passover.
The Mosaic Law stipulated what day the Passover lamb was to be eaten: Nissan 14 (Numbers 9:2–3). We must assume that Jesus kept the Law and observed Passover at the appointed time (see Galatians 4:4). After the Passover (Thursday) came the Day of Preparation (Friday) on which Jesus was killed. The Sabbath (Saturday) followed, of course, and then the first day of the week (Sunday)—the third day after the crucifixion and the day on which Jesus rose from the dead.
One objection to the above chronology is based on John 18:28, which says, “The Jewish leaders took Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover.” At first glance, it seems that, whereas Jesus had eaten the Passover the night before, the Jewish leaders had not yet eaten the Passover—they still “wanted to be able to eat” it after Jesus was arrested. To reconcile this verse with the Synoptic narratives, we must remember this: Passover was the first day of the week-long Feast of Unleavened Bread.
The Feast (or Festival) of Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot) lasted for a full week, from Nissan 15 to Nissan 22. The first day of Unleavened Bread coincided with the day of Passover. Because of the close relation between Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the whole week was sometimes referred to as “Passover.” The two holidays were (and still are) considered a single celebration. This explains John 18:28. The Jewish leaders had already eaten the Passover proper, but there still remained other sacrifices to be made and meals to be eaten. They were unwilling to defile themselves (Pilate’s palace contained leaven) because it would disqualify them from participating in the remainder of the week’s ceremonies (see Leviticus 23:8).
There are other difficulties in pinpointing the exact chronology of Jesus’ arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. But this seems to be a workable solution:
Thursday – Passover proper. The lamb is killed, and Jesus and His disciples eat the Passover meal in the upper room.
Friday – the Day of Preparation. Jesus is tried and executed (although never convicted). The Jews continue their “Passover” celebrations with the chagigah, offerings made during the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Saturday – the weekly Jewish Sabbath.
Sunday – Resurrection Day.
Bybel Lering vir die Dag
Die Dag van Voorbereiding
Al vier Evangelies verklaar dat Jesus op die Dag van Voorbereiding gekruisig is (Matteus 27:62; Markus 15:42; Lukas 23:54; Johannes 19:14, 31, 42). Markus, Lukas en Johannes verklaar almal dat die volgende dag die Sabbat was. Johannes se weergawe gebruik hierdie bewoording: “Dit was die dag van die Voorbereiding van die Pasga” (Johannes 19:14). Die vraag word, aangesien Jesus op die Dag van Voorbereiding doodgemaak is, waarom het Hy reeds die Pasga saam met Sy dissipels gevier (Matteus 26:17–29; Markus 14:12–25; Lukas 22:7–22; Johannes 13:1–30)?
Eerstens moet ons die teorie verwerp dat die skrywers van die Nuwe Testament ‘n fout gemaak het. Om te teoretiseer dat al vier die Evangelieskrywers die chronologie verkeerd gehad het, strek die geloofwaardigheid tot breekpunt. Moet ons werklik glo dat Matteus, Markus, Lukas en Johannes almal vergeet het wat hulle van een hoofstuk na die volgende geskryf het? Nee, daar moet ‘n beter verduideliking wees waarom Jesus die Pasga voor die Voorbereidingsdag geëet het.
Vervolgens moet ons identifiseer waarvoor die Voorbereidingsdag voorberei het. Elke week moes voorbereidings vir die Sabbat getref word—kos moes vooraf voorberei word. Dit het daartoe gelei dat die “Voorbereidingsdag” die algemene term vir “Vrydag” geword het. Alhoewel baie voorbereidings ook vir die Pasga getref moes word, is daar geen rekord van “Pasga-aand” wat die Voorbereidingsdag genoem word nie. Die Voorbereidingsdag was altyd Vrydag, die dag voor die Sabbat. Markus 15:42 maak dit duidelik.
Hoe verduidelik ons dan Johannes se stelling dat Jesus op “die Voorbereidingsdag van die Pasga” (Johannes 19:14) gesterf het? Dit is heel moontlik dat Johannes bloot bedoel het dat hierdie spesifieke Vrydag gedurende die Pasgaweek geval het; ons kan sy woorde só verstaan: “Dit was die Voorbereidingsdag, die een wat toevallig gedurende die seisoen van die Pasga gekom het.” Dus, die Voorbereidingsdag was om voor te berei vir die Sabbat, nie die Pasga nie.
Die Mosaïese Wet het bepaal watter dag die Pasga-lam geëet moes word: Nissan 14 (Numeri 9:2–3). Ons moet aanvaar dat Jesus die Wet onderhou en Pasga op die vasgestelde tyd gevier het (sien Galasiërs 4:4). Na die Pasga (Donderdag) het die Voorbereidingsdag (Vrydag) gekom waarop Jesus doodgemaak is. Die Sabbat (Saterdag) het natuurlik gevolg, en toe die eerste dag van die week (Sondag) – die derde dag na die kruisiging en die dag waarop Jesus uit die dood opgestaan het.
Een beswaar teen die bogenoemde chronologie is gebaseer op Johannes 18:28, wat sê: “Die Joodse leiers het Jesus van Kajafas na die paleis van die Romeinse goewerneur geneem. Dit was al vroegoggend, en om seremoniële onreinheid te vermy, het hulle nie die paleis binnegegaan nie, omdat hulle die Pasga wou eet.” Met die eerste oogopslag lyk dit asof, terwyl Jesus die Pasga die vorige aand geëet het, die Joodse leiers nog nie die Pasga geëet het nie – hulle wou dit steeds “kon eet” nadat Jesus in hegtenis geneem is. Om hierdie vers met die Sinoptiese vertellings te versoen, moet ons die volgende onthou: Pasga was die eerste dag van die weeklange Fees van Ongesuurde Brode.
Die Fees (of Fees) van Ongesuurde Brode (Chag HaMatzot) het ‘n volle week geduur, van Nissan 15 tot Nissan 22. Die eerste dag van Ongesuurde Brode het saamgeval met die dag van Pasga. As gevolg van die noue verband tussen Pasga en die Fees van Ongesuurde Brode, is die hele week soms as “Pasga” beskou. Die twee vakansiedae is (en word steeds) as ‘n enkele viering beskou. Dit verklaar Johannes 18:28. Die Joodse leiers het reeds die Pasga self geëet, maar daar was nog ander offers wat gebring en maaltye wat geëet moes word. Hulle was nie bereid om hulself te verontreinig nie (Pilatus se paleis het suurdeeg bevat) omdat dit hulle sou diskwalifiseer om aan die res van die week se seremonies deel te neem (sien Levitikus 23:8).
Daar is ander probleme om die presiese chronologie van Jesus se arrestasie, verhoor, kruisiging en opstanding vas te stel. Maar dit lyk na ‘n werkbare oplossing:
Donderdag – Pasga self. Die lam word geslag, en Jesus en Sy dissipels eet die Pasga-maaltyd in die bovertrek.
Vrydag – die Voorbereidingsdag. Jesus word verhoor en tereggestel (alhoewel nooit skuldig bevind nie). Die Jode gaan voort met hul “Pasga”-vieringe met die chagigah, offerandes wat tydens die Fees van Ongesuurde Brode gebring word.
Saterdag – die weeklikse Joodse Sabbat.
Sondag – Opstandingsdag.
Today’s Devotional
HOLINESS
Second Corinthians 7:1 says, “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (NKJV). To be cleansed from spiritual and moral uncleanliness, believers must “perfect holiness” in reverent obedience to God. This does not mean that we will reach a state of sinless perfection in this life; rather, it means that, as we obey God, we will be transformed more and more into the image of Christ. The NLT says, “Let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.”
In the preceding chapter, Paul discusses God’s desire to dwell among His people and be their God (2 Corinthians 6:16). More than that, God promised, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters” (verse 18). These are the promises Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 7:1 that motivate us to separate ourselves from the world and “perfect holiness in the fear of God.” Since God has established a relationship between us and Himself, we should be holy in all aspects of life.
Holiness is the attribute of being set apart for God’s service, reflecting His perfect moral character. In Leviticus 11:44, God says, “I am the Lord your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means striving to reflect God’s character in one’s life. This is not an instantaneous process but involves continuous sanctification through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Holiness affects both our inward thoughts and external actions. For this reason, Paul says that we must “cleanse ourselves from filthiness of the flesh and spirit” (NKJV). This corresponds to what he says in Romans 12:1: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God requires us to align our thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s will (Romans 12:2).
The fear of God is reverent obedience to Him, recognizing His holiness, majesty, and sovereignty. Proverbs 9:10 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God is rooted in a deep respect for who God is. It is not about being terrified of God but about honoring Him with our body and spirit.
Reverential fear of God should motivate us to avoid sin and pursue His righteousness. Philippians 2:12–13 urges believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means to humbly submit to God’s sanctifying work in our lives, striving to live in a way that pleases Him. Another motivation is the knowledge that Jesus is coming again: “All who have this hope in him [of Jesus’ return] purify themselves, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:3).
There are several ways to perfect holiness in the fear of God. One is to humbly ask for God’s assistance: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Psalm 139:23–24). The Lord will help us to identify areas that need to be cleansed.
Another way to perfect holiness in the fear of God is to actively pursue a life of integrity and moral behavior. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means that we are committed to God’s holiness, demonstrating justice, mercy, and humility.
Second Corinthians 7:1 calls believers to perfect or complete holiness in the fear of God. This lifetime pursuit is a response to the promises of God. By understanding the nature of holiness, submitting to God in reverential obedience, and growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ, we can better reflect God’s holiness in our lives.
Vandag se Bemoediging
HEILIGHEID
Tweede Korintiërs 7:1 sê: “Terwyl ons dan hierdie beloftes het, geliefdes, laat ons ons van alle besoedeling van die vlees en die gees reinig en heiligmaking in die vrees van God volbring” (NKJV). Om van geestelike en morele onreinheid gereinig te word, moet gelowiges “heiligmaking volbring” in eerbiedige gehoorsaamheid aan God. Dit beteken nie dat ons ‘n toestand van sondelose volmaaktheid in hierdie lewe sal bereik nie; dit beteken eerder dat, soos ons God gehoorsaam, ons meer en meer na die beeld van Christus verander sal word. Die NLT sê: “Laat ons streef na volkome heiligheid, omdat ons God vrees.”
In die vorige hoofstuk bespreek Paulus God se begeerte om onder Sy mense te woon en hulle God te wees (2 Korintiërs 6:16). Meer as dit, God het belowe: “Ek sal vir julle ‘n Vader wees, en julle sal vir My seuns en dogters wees” (vers 18). Dit is die beloftes wat Paulus in 2 Korintiërs 7:1 noem wat ons motiveer om onsself van die wêreld af te sonder en “heiligmaking in die vrees van God te volbring”. Aangesien God ‘n verhouding tussen ons en Homself gevestig het, moet ons in alle aspekte van die lewe heilig wees.
Heiligheid is die eienskap van afgesonder wees vir God se diens, wat Sy perfekte morele karakter weerspieël. In Levitikus 11:44 sê God: “Ek is die Here julle God. Heilig julle dan en wees heilig, want Ek is heilig” (ESV). Om heiligheid in die vrees van God te volmaak, beteken om daarna te streef om God se karakter in ‘n mens se lewe te weerspieël. Dit is nie ‘n oombliklike proses nie, maar behels voortdurende heiligmaking deur die werk van die Heilige Gees.
Heiligheid beïnvloed beide ons innerlike gedagtes en uiterlike handelinge. Om hierdie rede sê Paulus dat ons onsself moet “reinig van die vuilheid van die vlees en die gees” (NKJV). Dit stem ooreen met wat hy in Romeine 12:1 sê: “Ek vermaan julle dan, broeders, by die ontferminge van God, dat julle julle liggame stel as ‘n lewende, heilige en aan God welgevallige offer – dit is julle redelike godsdiens” (ESV). Om heiligheid in die vrees van God te vervolmaak, vereis dat ons ons gedagtes, begeertes en dade in lyn bring met God se wil (Romeine 12:2).
Die vrees van God is eerbiedige gehoorsaamheid aan Hom, die erkenning van Sy heiligheid, majesteit en soewereiniteit. Spreuke 9:10 sê: “Die vrees van die Here is die begin van wysheid, en die kennis van die Heilige is insig” (ESV). Om heiligheid in die vrees van God te vervolmaak, is gewortel in ‘n diep respek vir wie God is. Dit gaan nie daaroor om vir God bang te wees nie, maar daaroor om Hom met ons liggaam en gees te eer.
Eerbiedige vrees vir God behoort ons te motiveer om sonde te vermy en Sy geregtigheid na te streef. Filippense 2:12–13 spoor gelowiges aan om “julle eie heil uit te werk met vrees en bewing, want dit is God wat in julle werk, beide om te wil en om te werk na sy welbehae” (ESV). Om heiligheid in die vrees van God te vervolmaak, beteken om nederig te onderwerp aan God se heiligmakende werk in ons lewens, en daarna te streef om te leef op ‘n manier wat Hom behaag. Nog ‘n motivering is die wete dat Jesus weer kom: “Almal wat hierdie hoop in Hom [van Jesus se wederkoms] het, reinig hulleself, soos Hy rein is” (1 Johannes 3:3).
Daar is verskeie maniere om heiligheid in die vrees van God te volmaak. Een is om nederig om God se hulp te vra: “Deurgrond My, o God, en ken my hart! Toets My en ken my gedagtes! En kyk of daar in my ‘n weg is wat moeilik is, en lei my op die ewige weg!” (Psalm 139:23–24). Die Here sal ons help om areas te identifiseer wat gereinig moet word.
Nog ‘n manier om heiligheid in die vrees van God te volmaak, is om aktief ‘n lewe van integriteit en morele gedrag na te streef. Miga 6:8 sê: “Hy het jou bekend gemaak, o mens, wat goed is; en wat vra die Here van jou anders as om reg te doen en liefde te betoon en ootmoedig te wandel met jou God?” (ESV). Om heiligheid in die vrees van God te volmaak, beteken dat ons verbind is tot God se heiligheid, en geregtigheid, barmhartigheid en nederigheid demonstreer.
Tweede Korintiërs 7:1 roep gelowiges op tot volmaakte of algehele heiligheid in die vrees van God. Hierdie lewenslange strewe is ‘n reaksie op die beloftes van God. Deur die aard van heiligheid te verstaan, ons aan God in eerbiedige gehoorsaamheid te onderwerp, en te groei in die genade en kennis van Christus, kan ons God se heiligheid beter in ons lewens weerspieël.
TruLight Ministries Daily Entertainment
TruLight TV – Harmony of Faith: Karen Peck and New River’s Impact on Gospel Music
Returning for their second performance on Gospel Music USA, Karen Peck and New River has impacted the Gospel Music industry for almost 30 years. In 2018, Karen Peck Gooch was inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame. New River continues to deliver a progressive sound that is distinctive yet remains true to the traditional styling that has made them a fan favorite. and later a Testimony from Simon – As a music teacher Simon Smith enjoyed his job, but he knew there was more. He was frustrated that he couldn’t share his faith with his students, so he started Voice. This ministry combines his passion for music and for God, while allowing him to help young people develop their musical talents and share their faith. It gives them a voice for God in this world through music. There have been challenges and ups and downs along the way, but Simon allows God to lead this ministry that He planted in Simon’s heart. “I don’t think it was so much me taking a step of faith,” Smith says, “but me taking a step into God’s faithfulness.”
INTRODUCTION TO THE GOSPEL ARTISTS
MEET : Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith has been releasing new music regularly and performing around the world to sold-out crowds for the last 40+ years. During his storied career, he’s written and recorded over 36 No. 1 songs, been bestowed with three GRAMMY®Awards,45+Dove Awards, one American Music Award, was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and has sold more than 15 million albums.More than just an outstanding songwriter and performer, Smith has given back to the global community throughout his career.He has raised funds to battle AIDS in Africa, started Rock e town, a safe haven for young people in Tennessee to meet and find hope; and has helped more than 70,000 children through Compassion International.
Today on TruLight Radio XM
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Program
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00:15 Words to Live By Testimonies
01.15 Science Scripture and Salvation
02.15 Ground Works
04.00 Gospel Concert of the Day
05.00 The Daren Streblow Comedy Show
5:55 It is Today devotional
6:00 Gaither Homecoming Morning Show
7:15 Discover the Word
8.15 Destined for Victory
8:55 Science Scripture and Salvation
9:00 Holy Spirit Hour – Normally Sermons
10:15 Hope of the Heart
11:15 Unshackled
11.45 Words to Live By
12:15 Truth for Life
13:15 Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram
14:15 Focus on the Family
15:00 Kids Hour
16:00 In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley
16:30 Groundwork
17:15 Live in the Light
18:15 Renewing your Mind
19:00 Gaither Homecoming Show
20:15 Growing Hope
21:15 Adventures in Odyssey Radio Drama
21:45 Bible Reading
22:15 Night-sounds
23.00 Good Old Country Gospel / Rhema Gospel Express
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Bible Prophecy in the News
Iran to Reject US Nuclear Proposal, Iranian Diplomat Says
Iran to Reject US Nuclear Proposal, Iranian Diplomat Says
Tehran says it wants to master nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and has long denied accusations by Western powers that it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
Iran is poised to reject a US proposal to end a decades-old nuclear dispute, an Iranian diplomat said on Monday, dismissing it as a “non-starter” that fails to address Tehran’s interests or soften Washington’s stance on uranium enrichment.
“Iran is drafting a negative response to the US proposal, which could be interpreted as a rejection of the US offer,” the senior diplomat, who is close to Iran’s negotiating team, told Reuters.
The US proposal for a new nuclear deal was presented to Iran on Saturday by Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, who was on a short visit to Tehran and has been mediating talks between Tehran and Washington.
After five rounds of discussions between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, several obstacles remain.
Among them are Iran’s rejection of a US demand that it commit to scrapping uranium enrichment and its refusal to ship abroad its entire existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium – possible raw material for nuclear bombs.
Tehran says it wants to master nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and has long denied accusations by Western powers that it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
“In this proposal, the US stance on enrichment on Iranian soil remains unchanged, and there is no clear explanation regarding the lifting of sanctions,” said the diplomat, who declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Araqchi said Tehran would formally respond to the proposal soon.
Tehran demands the immediate removal of all US-imposed curbs that impair its oil-based economy. But the US says nuclear-related sanctions should be removed in phases.
Dozens of institutions vital to Iran’s economy, including its central bank and national oil company, have been blacklisted since 2018 for, according to Washington, “supporting terrorism or weapons proliferation.”
Trump’s revival of “maximum pressure” against Tehran since his return to the White House in January has included tightening sanctions and threatening to bomb Iran if the negotiations yield no deal.
During his first term in 2018, Trump ditched Tehran’s 2015 nuclear pact with six powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled Iran’s economy. Iran responded by escalating enrichment far beyond the pact’s limits.
Under the deal, Iran had until 2018 curbed its sensitive nuclear work in return for relief from US, EU, and U.N. economic sanctions.
The diplomat said the assessment of “Iran’s nuclear negotiations committee,” under the supervision of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was that the US proposal was “completely one-sided” and could not serve Tehran’s interests.
Therefore, the diplomat said, Tehran considers this proposal a “non-starter” and believes it unilaterally attempts to impose a “bad deal” on Iran through excessive demands.
NUCLEAR STANDOFF RAISES MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS
The stakes are high for both sides. Trump wants to curtail Tehran’s potential to produce a nuclear weapon that could trigger a regional nuclear arms race and perhaps threaten Israel.
Iran’s clerical establishment, for its part, wants to be rid of the devastating sanctions.
Iran says it is ready to accept some limits on enrichment, but needs watertight guarantees that Washington would not renege on a future nuclear accord.
Two Iranian officials told Reuters last week that Iran could pause uranium enrichment if the US released frozen Iranian funds and recognized Tehran’s right to refine uranium for civilian use under a “political deal” that could lead to a broader nuclear accord.
Iran’s arch-foe Israel sees Iran’s nuclear program as an existential threat and says it would never allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons.
Signs of the Times
Damning IAEA report spells out past secret nuclear activities in Iran
Four Western powers plan to submit a draft resolution declaring Iran in non-compliance for the first time in nearly 20 years at the board’s June 9 meeting, diplomats say.
Iran carried out secret nuclear activities with material not declared to the UN nuclear watchdog at three locations that have long been under investigation, the watchdog said in a wide-ranging, confidential report to member states seen by the Reuters news agency.
The findings in the “comprehensive” International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report requested by the agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors in November pave the way for a push by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany for the board to declare Iran in violation of its non-proliferation obligations.
A resolution would infuriate Iran and could further complicate nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington.
Using the IAEA report’s findings, the four Western powers plan to submit a draft resolution for the board to adopt at its next meeting during the week of June 9, diplomats say. It would be the first time in almost 20 years Iran has formally been found in non-compliance.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry rejected the report as “politically motivated” and said Tehran will take “appropriate measures” in response to any effort to take action against the country at the Board of Governors meeting, state media reported, without elaborating.
Tehran says it wants to master nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and has long denied accusations by Western powers that it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
While many of the findings relate to activities dating back decades and have been made before, the IAEA report’s conclusions were more definitive.
It summarized developments in recent years and pointed more clearly towards coordinated, secret activities, some of which were relevant to producing nuclear weapons.
It also spelled out that Iran’s cooperation with IAEA continues to be “less than satisfactory” in “a number of respects.” The IAEA is still seeking explanations for uranium traces found years ago at two of four sites it has been investigating. Three hosted secret experiments, it found.
The IAEA has concluded that “these three locations, and other possible related locations, were part of an undeclared structured nuclear program carried out by Iran until the early 2000s and that some activities used undeclared nuclear material,” the report said.
Nuclear material and/or heavily contaminated equipment from that program was stored at the fourth site, Turquzabad, between 2009 and 2018, it said.
“The Agency concludes that Iran did not declare nuclear material and nuclear-related activities at three undeclared locations in Iran, specifically, Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, and Turquzabad,” the report said.
At Lavisan-Shian in Tehran, a disc made of uranium metal was “used in the production of explosively-driven neutron sources” at least twice in 2003, a process designed to initiate the explosion in a nuclear weapon, the report said, adding that it was part of “small-scale” tests.
The report is likely to lead to Iran being referred to the UN Security Council, though that would probably happen at a later IAEA board meeting, diplomats said.
More immediately, it is likely to lead to Iran again accelerating or expanding its rapidly advancing nuclear program, as it has done after previous rebukes at the board. It could also further complicate talks with the United States aimed at reining in that program.
Gog and Magog Update
Iran duping Trump with nuclear inspections
Every day that passes without a deal is another day Iran gets to enrich more uranium, build new secret sites, continue amassing stockpiles of highly-enriched, easily weaponized uranium.
Once again, the United States has sat down with Iran for yet another round of nuclear negotiations — this time the fifth.
And once again, we are told that there will be another round in the “near future.” Sound familiar? It should.
Iran’s cat-and-mouse diplomatic theater is not a breakthrough; it is a rerun.
Just as in the past rounds, this latest episode concluded without any meaningful agreement, while Iran continues to advance in its nuclear program, intercontinental ballistic missiles — not needed to attack Israel — and rebuild its air defense.
Iran knows exactly what it is doing. It is playing a game it has mastered for decades: stall, confuse, buy time, bring in the well-intentioned but toothless International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
All the regime needs to win the negotiations is to entrench enforceability and retain the ability to work in secret down the pike.
This endless cycle of negotiations is not a good-faith diplomatic process. It is a maneuver, a delaying tactic, most likely with a plan on how successfully to deceive.
Whenever pressure mounts, Iran opens the door just enough to create the illusion of cooperation. Then it floods the conversation with talk of “complexity” and nuance.
Places in the Bible
Amman
Philadelphia
Under Ptolemy II Philadelphos (285–247 BC), Amman was rebuilt and renamed Philadelphia. In 63 BC, Philadelphia became part of the Decapolis set up by Pompey. In AD 106, Philadelphia was included in the Roman province of Arabia by the Emperor Trajan. He built a new road from Elath to Damascus which ran through Philadelphia. This created an economic boom for the city and it flourished. Most of the town’s Roman structures were built in the 2nd century AD, including the theater, forum and Hercules temple.
Roman Theater
The first theater was built in the Hellenistic period against the hillside, but it was much smaller. The Greeks did not use vaults and arches, so their theaters are always on the hillsides. The Romans rebuilt this theater and the sides are supported by arches. There were 125 Roman theaters worldwide (13 of these are in Jordan, 5 are in Israel). The construction of this theater is dated to the mid-2nd century AD, based on evidence from coins.
Acropolis
Known today as Jebel al-Qal’a, or the Citadel, the ancient acropolis covers about 40 acres (16 ha) and is L-shaped. The hill is divided into three terraces and was surrounded by deep wadis on all sides but the north. In times of weakness, the Ammonites could find seclusion and protection here. The Jabbok River starts in a strong spring at the citadel of Rabbath Ammon. This spring likely gave the city its name, the “city of waters” (2 Sam 12:27, KJV).
Temple of Hercules
Two temples were apparently built on the Citadel during the 2nd century AD, with no other structures. The Temple of Hercules was built on the southern end during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (AD 161–180). The columns were 33 feet (10 m) tall and were originally part of a six-columned podium. The standing columns were re-erected by the American Center of Oriental Research in Amman.
David’s Attack
The acropolis is surrounded by deep wadis (valleys) on three sides. The north side was not as protected and thus was the most vulnerable to attack. It is likely that David’s men concentrated their campaign against the city at this point, and perhaps it was here that Uriah was killed at David’s order (2 Sam 11:16-17).
HEALING ARTICLES AND PRAYER
TruLight Ministries offer a Wide Range of EYE OPENING Healing Articles and various Illnesses . Cancers and other Chronic Illness :
TruLight Ministries bied ‘n wye reeks OOGOPENENDE Genesingsartikels en verskeie siektes. Kankers en ander chroniese siektes:
FEAR the Number 1 Sign of the End Times!
We read of the Signs of the End Times from the Bible, Jesus Himself gave us several signs to look for, to see that the End Time is near. As He informed His Disciples in the New Testament Books of Luke 21 and Matt 24, Jesus showed several people more end time signs Like Paul and John that wrote the End Time Book of Revelations.
But the Number 1 Sign of the Times Is one I see daily within Christians!
Yesterday I received the Tragic news of an Ex colleague at work that Passed away and the reason on his death on his death certificate was, Heart Failure.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me right away and instructed me to place this Article.
“Heart Failure is caused by Fear” I actually prayed and counseled this ex worker friend of mine in 2015, and the main reason for his counseling request was FEAR.
The Number One Killer of the End times we are living in right Now is FEAR!
Jesus said.
Luke 21:26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
What is Fear?
Although the Definition of Fear is
An unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm.
“I cowered in fear as bullets whizzed past”
synonyms: terror, fright, fearfulness, horror, alarm, panic, agitation, trepidation, dread, consternation, dismay, distress;
be afraid of (someone or something) as likely to be dangerous, painful, or harmful.
“I hated him but didn’t fear him any more”
synonyms: be afraid of, be fearful of, be scared of, be apprehensive of, dread, live in fear of, go in terror of, be terrified of, be terrified by, cower before, tremble before, cringe from, shrink from, flinch from;
Fear is the Opposite of Faith, Fear is the Opposite of Hope and Fear is the Opposite of loosing Love.
“FEAR STEPS IN WHEN YOU LOOSE FAITH”
Question: “Faith vs. fear – what does the Bible say?”
Answer: Faith and fear cannot exist together. Faith is described in Hebrews 11:1 as being “certain of what we do not see.” It is an absolute belief that God is constantly working behind the scenes in every area of our lives, even when there is no tangible evidence to support that fact. On the other hand, fear, simply stated, is unbelief or weak belief. As unbelief gains the upper hand in our thoughts, fear takes hold of our emotions. Our deliverance from fear and worry is based on faith, which is the very opposite of unbelief. We need to understand that faith is not something that we can produce in ourselves. Faith is a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9) and is described as a fruit (or characteristic) which is produced in our lives by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). The Christian’s faith is a confident assurance in a God who loves us, who knows our thoughts and cares about our deepest needs. That faith continues to grow as we study the Bible and learn the attributes of His amazing character. The more we learn about God, the more we can see Him working in our lives and the stronger our faith grows.
A growing faith is what we desire to have and what God desires to produce in us. But how, in day-to-day life, can we develop a faith that conquers our fears? The Bible says, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17). The careful study of God’s Word is of primary importance in developing a strong faith. God wants us to know Him and completely rely on His direction in our lives. It’s through the hearing, reading and meditation in the Scriptures that we begin to experience a strong, confident faith that excludes worry and fear. Spending time in prayer and quiet worship develops a relationship with our heavenly Father that sees us through even the darkest of nights. In the Psalms we see a picture of David, who, like us, experienced times of fear. Psalm 56:3 reveals his faith with these words: “When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” Psalm 119 is filled with verses expressing the way in which David treasured God’s Word: “I seek you with all my heart” (v. 10); “I meditate on your precepts” (v. 15); “I have hidden your word in my heart” (v. 11). These are revealing words which speak wisdom to us today.
God is kind and understanding toward our weaknesses, but He requires us to go forward in faith, and the Bible is clear that faith does not mature and strengthen without trials. Adversity is God’s most effective tool to develop a strong faith. That pattern is evident in Scripture. God takes each one of us through fearful situations, and as we learn to obey God’s Word and allow it to saturate our thoughts, we find each trial becomes a stepping stone to a stronger and deeper faith. It gives us that ability to say, “He sustained me in the past, He’ll carry me through today and He’ll uphold me in the future!” God worked this way in David’s life. When David volunteered to fight against Goliath, he said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37). David knew the God who had sustained him through dangerous situations in the past. He had seen and experienced God’s power and protection in his life, and this developed within him a fearless faith.
The Word of God is rich with promises for us to take hold of and claim for ourselves. When we face financial trouble, Philippians 4:19 tells us, “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” If we are anxious about a future decision, Psalm 32:8 reminds us that God will “instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” In sickness we can remember that Romans 5:3 says, “Tribulation works patience.” If someone turns against us, we can be comforted by the words in Romans 8:31, “If God is for us who can be against us!” Throughout life we will continue to face various trials that would cause us fear, but God assures us that we can know a calm peace through every situation, “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding” which He has promised will “guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
“FEAR STEPS IN WHEN YOU LOOSE HOPE”
Question: “What is the difference between faith and hope?”
Answer: Faith and hope are distinct yet related. That there is a difference between faith and hope is evident in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “Now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Two of the three greatest gifts are faith and hope, listed separately. That faith and hope are related concepts is seen in Hebrews 11:1, “Faith is confidence in what we hope for.”
Faith is a complete trust or confidence in something. Faith involves intellectual assent to a set of facts and trust in those facts. For example, we have faith in Jesus Christ. This means we completely trust Jesus for our eternal destiny. We give intellectual assent to the facts of His substitutionary death and bodily resurrection, and we then trust in His death and resurrection for our salvation.
Biblical hope is built on faith. Hope is the earnest anticipation that comes with believing something good. Hope is a confident expectation that naturally stems from faith. Hope is a peaceful assurance that something that hasn’t happened yet will indeed happen. Hope must involve something that is as yet unseen: “Hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?” (Romans 8:24). Jesus’ return is our “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13)—we can’t see Him yet, but we know He’s coming, and we anticipate that event with joy.
Jesus said He is coming again (John 14:3). By faith, we trust Jesus’ words, and that leads to hope that we will one day be with Him forever. Jesus was resurrected from the dead, “the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). That is the basis for our faith. Then we have Jesus’ promise: “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19). That is the basis of our hope.
The relationship between faith and hope can be illustrated in the joy a child feels when his father tells him they are going to an amusement park tomorrow. The child believes that he will go to the amusement park, based on his father’s word—that is faith. At the same time, that belief within the child kindles an irrepressible joy—that is hope. The child’s natural trust in his father’s promise is the faith; the child’s squeals of delight and jumping in place are the expressions of the hope.
Faith and hope are complementary. Faith is grounded in the reality of the past; hope is looking to the reality of the future. Without faith, there is no hope, and without hope there is no true faith. Christians are people of faith and hope. We have “the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time” (Titus 1:2).
“FEAR STEPS IN WHEN LOVE IS LOST”
Question: “Is God’s love conditional or unconditional?”
Answer: God’s love, as described in the Bible, is clearly unconditional in that His love is expressed toward the objects of His love (that is, His people) despite their disposition toward Him. In other words, God loves because it His nature to love (1 John 4:8), and that love moves Him toward benevolent action. The unconditional nature of God’s love is most clearly seen in the gospel. The gospel message is basically a story of divine rescue. As God considers the plight of His rebellious people, He determines to save them from their sin, and this determination is based on His love (Ephesians 1:4-5). Listen to the Apostle Paul’s words from his letter to the Romans:
“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6-8).
Reading through the book of Romans, we learn that we are alienated from God due to our sin. We are at enmity with God, and His wrath is being revealed against the ungodly for their unrighteousness (Romans 1:18-20). We reject God, and God gives us over to our sin. We also learn that we have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23) and that none of us seek God, none of us do what is right before His eyes (Romans 3:10-18).
Despite this hostility and enmity we have toward God (for which God would be perfectly just to utterly destroy us), God reveals His love toward us in the giving of His Son, Jesus Christ, as the propitiation (that is, the appeasement of God’s righteous wrath) for our sins. God did not wait for us to better ourselves as a condition of atoning for our sin. Rather, God condescended to become a man and live among His people (John 1:14). God experienced our humanity—everything it means to be a human being—and then offered Himself willingly as a substitutionary atonement for our sin.
This divine rescue resulted in a gracious act of self-sacrifice. As Jesus says in John’s gospel, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). That is precisely what God, in Christ, has done. The unconditional nature of God’s love is made clear in two more passages from Scripture:
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5).
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:9-10).
It is important to note that God’s love is a love that initiates; it is never a response. That is precisely what makes it unconditional. If God’s love were conditional, then we would have to do something to earn or merit it. We would have to somehow appease His wrath and cleanse ourselves of our sin before God would be able to love us. But that is not the biblical message. The biblical message—the gospel—is that God, motivated by love, moved unconditionally to save His people from their sin.
“END OF DAYS FAITH”
Question: “How can I overcome my fear of the end of days?”
Answer: The best way to overcome a fear of the end of days is to be spiritually prepared for it. First and foremost, you must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ in order to have eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). Only through Him can you receive forgiveness of sin and have eternity with God. If God is your Father, there’s really nothing to worry about (Luke 12:32).
Second, every Christian should live a life worthy of the calling we have in Christ. Ephesians 4:1-3 teaches, “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Knowing Christ and walking in His will go a long way towards diminishing fear of any kind.
Third, Christians are told what will happen in the end, and it’s encouraging. First Thessalonians 4:13-18 notes,
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Rather than fear the future, we are called to anticipate the future with joy. Why? In Christ, we will be “caught up” to meet Him and we “will always be with the Lord.”
Further, Scripture says we do not need to fear Judgment Day: “By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love” (1 John 4:17-18).
The apostle Peter reveals that, even if our future holds suffering, we need not fear: “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed” (1 Peter 3:14). Peter and many other early believers endured much hardship and even death because of their faith in Christ. Suffering is not to be feared; it is a blessing when it is borne for the name of Jesus.
Those who do not know Christ do not have the promise of peace for the future. For them, there is a real concern because they have not settled the issue of where they will spend eternity. Those who do know Christ do not fear the end of days. Instead, we strive to live a life worthy of our calling, live with confidence, suffer patiently, anticipate Jesus’ return, and rest in the knowledge that our times are in His hands (Psalm 31:15).
In the End Times there will be two groups of Christians!
One Group with Fear and No Faith they will take the Mark of the Beast.
And One Group with Total Faith and No Fear and they will not take the mark of the Beast and Receive the Seal / Mark of God on their Forehead.
Jesus Says!
Luk 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
Luk 8:50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
Mat 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Mat 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Rev 1:17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:
Rev 15:4 Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
Pastor Dirk , TruLight Radio XM
https://trulightradioxm.org.za/?s=FEAR
Dr Michelle Strydom MD – Healing begins with Sanctification of the Heart – 19 Video Teachings . One Video per Day
Dr Michelle Strydom trained and qualified as a medical doctor in South Africa and her desire is to practice medicine for the glory of God and leave behind a legacy of His love. She authored Healing Begins with Sanctifcation of the Heart and uncovers the foundation of disease by providing insight, from both a medical and Biblical perspective, into the spiritual, psychological and physical mechanisms that produce ill health. Her teaching demonstrates how latest medical research confirms Biblical principles of health and disease and reveals how coming back in line with His Word through repentance and sanctification helps us to overcome illness, be healed and made whole.
Teaching 2 = HOW LONG TERM FEAR AFFECTS YOUR BODY
TruLight Ministry News
TruLight Ministries orders from God since 2012 . Teach Them , Comfort Them and Warn Them!
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TruLight Ministries opdrag vanaf God sedert 2012. Leer hulle, Troos hulle en Waarsku hulle!
TruLight School of Theology have started with Its daily Bible Study – Pastor Counselling Certificate – we are Starting with 36 Studies with 10 Studies per Topic from 1st of April 2025 – Over the Next 2 Years we will Include One Daily Study per Topic on this Platform. The Daily Manna Bible Study will be Available in English and Afrikaans!
We will Start with a 68 week Study on “Know Your Bible” Daily Bible Summaries of every Chapter in the Bible! From the Old Testament to the New Testament , from Genesis to Revelation 66 Books of the Bible.
Started 1st April 2025
This is our Study Principals:
SOAP
Scripture: Read a short passage out loud.
Observation: What do you notice about the verses?.
Application: How can you apply this to your life?.
Prayer: Pray about what you’ve learned.
REAP
Read: Read the passage carefully.
Engage: Ask questions about the passage.
Apply: Think about how the passage applies to your life.
Pray: Pray about what you’ve learned.
Introduction to the Bible – Bible Summary
Summary of the Book of 1
Thessalonians
Author: 1 Thessalonians 1:1 indicates that the Book of 1 Thessalonians was written by
the apostle Paul, probably along with Silas and Timothy.
Date of Writing: The Book of 1 Thessalonians was written in approximately A.D. 50.
Purpose of Writing: In the church of Thessalonica there were some misunderstandings
about the return of Christ. Paul desired to clear them up in his letter. He also writes it as
an instruction in holy living.
Key Verses:
1 Thessalonians 3:5, “For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out
about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and
our efforts might have been useless.”
1 Thessalonians 3:7, “Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were
encouraged about you because of your faith.”
1 Thessalonians 4:14-17, “We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe
that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the
Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of
the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself
will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and
with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are
still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the
Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all
circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Brief Summary: The first three chapters are about Paul longing to visit the church in
Thessalonica but not being able to because Satan stopped them (1 Thessalonians 2:18),
and how Paul cared for them and was encouraged to hear how they had been. Paul then
prays for them (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13). In chapter 4, Paul is instructing the believers in
Thessalonica on how to live, in Christ Jesus, a holy life (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12). Paul
goes on to instruct them of a misconception they had. He tells them that the people
who have died in Christ Jesus will also go to heaven when He comes back (1
Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11). The book ends with final instructions of living the
Christian life.
Connections: Paul reminds the Thessalonians that the persecution they were receiving
from their “own countrymen” (v. 2:15), the Jews who rejected their Messiah, is the same
that the Old Testament prophets suffered (Jeremiah 2:30; Matthew 23:31). Jesus warned
that true prophets of God would always be opposed by the unrighteous (Luke 11:49). In
Colossians, Paul reminds them of that truth.
Practical Application: This book can be applied to many life situations. It gives us the
confidence as Christians that dead or alive when Christ comes back we will be together
with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). It assures us as Christians that we won’t receive
God’s wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:8-9). It instructs us how to walk the Christian life daily (1
Thessalonians 4–5).
Inleiding tot die Bybel – Bybel Samevatting
Opsomming van die Boek van 1
Tessalonisense
Skrywer: 1 Tessalonisense 1:1 dui aan dat die Boek van 1 Tessalonisense deur die
apostel Paulus geskryf is, waarskynlik saam met Silas en Timoteus.
Datum van Skrywe: Die Boek van 1 Tessalonisense is in ongeveer 50 nC geskryf.
Doel van Skrywe: In die kerk van Tessalonika was daar ‘n paar misverstande oor die
wederkoms van Christus. Paulus wou dit in sy brief opklaar. Hy skryf dit ook as ‘n opdrag
in die heilige lewe.
Sleutelverse:
1 Tessalonisense 3:5 , “Daarom, toe ek dit nie meer kon uithou nie, het ek gestuur om
julle geloof te verneem. Ek was bang dat die versoeker jou dalk op een of ander manier
versoek het en ons pogings dalk nutteloos was.”
1 Tessalonisense 3:7 “Daarom, broeders, is ons in al ons benoudheid en vervolging
bemoedig oor julle vanweë julle geloof.”
1 Tessalonisense 4:14-17 “Ons glo dat Jesus gesterf en opgestaan het en daarom glo
ons dat God die wat in Hom ontslaap het, saam met Jesus sal bring. Volgens die Here se
eie woord sê ons vir julle dat ons wat nog is lewend, wat tot die wederkoms van die
Here oorgebly het, sal die wat ontslaap het beslis nie voorafgaan nie, want die Here self
sal uit die hemel neerdaal met ‘n luide bevel, met die stem van die aartsengel en met die
basuin van God. , en die dooies in Christus sal eerste opstaan, ons wat nog lewe en
oorgebly het, sal saam met hulle in die wolke weggevoer word die Here in die lug
tegemoet.
1 Tessalonisense 5:16-18 , “Wees altyd bly; bid voortdurend; Wees in alle
omstandighede dankbaar, want dit is die wil van God in Christus Jesus van julle.”
Kort opsomming: Die eerste drie hoofstukke handel oor Paulus wat verlang om die
kerk in Tessalonika te besoek, maar nie kon nie omdat Satan hulle gekeer het ( 1
Tessalonisense 2:18 ), en hoe Paulus vir hulle omgegee het en aangemoedig is om te
hoor hoe dit met hulle gegaan het. Paulus bid dan vir hulle ( 1 Tessalonisense 3:11-13 ).
In hoofstuk 4 gee Paulus die gelowiges in Tessalonika opdrag oor hoe om, in Christus
Jesus, ‘n heilige lewe te leef ( 1 Tessalonisense 4:1-12 ). Paulus gaan voort om hulle te
leer oor ‘n wanopvatting wat hulle gehad het. Hy sê vir hulle dat die mense wat in
Christus Jesus gesterf het, ook hemel toe sal gaan wanneer Hy terugkom ( 1
Thessalonicense 4:13-18 , 5:1-11 ). Die boek eindig met finale instruksies om die
Christelike lewe te leef.
Verbindings: Paulus herinner die Tessalonisense dat die vervolging wat hulle van hul
“eie landgenote” ontvang het (v. 2:15), die Jode wat hul Messias verwerp het, dieselfde is
as wat die Ou Testamentiese profete gely het ( Jeremia 2:30 ; Matteus 23 ) . :31 ). Jesus
het gewaarsku dat ware profete van God altyd deur die onregverdiges teëgestaan sal
word ( Lukas 11:49 ). In Kolossense herinner Paulus hulle aan daardie waarheid.
Praktiese toepassing: Hierdie boek kan op baie lewensituasies toegepas word. Dit gee
ons die vertroue as Christene dat ons dood of lewend wanneer Christus terugkom, saam
met Hom sal wees ( 1 Tessalonisense 4:13-18 ). Dit verseker ons as Christene dat ons nie
God se toorn sal ontvang nie ( 1 Tessalonisense 5:8-9 ). Dit leer ons hoe om daagliks die
Christelike lewe te wandel ( 1 Tessalonisense 4–5 ).
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