Category: What do you think?

Jesus’ Strong Words Against False Religious Leaders

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JEFF TURNER

In Matthew 23, Jesus spoke with sharp and direct language to the religious leaders of Israel, calling them hypocrites, snakes, and even “sons of hell.” His words were not meant to be courteous or soft. Instead, they were a deliberate and forceful warning. He condemned them for leading others into spiritual ruin, saying they made their followers even more bound for judgment.

Jesus also compared them to unclean graves, appearing respectable on the outside but full of corruption inside. He did this not out of cruelty, but because the seriousness of their deception demanded a strong response. The goal was both to confront the leaders themselves and to protect the people from their influence.

After addressing the leaders, Jesus told the crowd to stay away from such men, warning that they would lead people to condemnation. Exposing false teaching and cautioning others is part of the work of Christ, and it remains a duty for all believers today. When eternal souls are in danger, polite silence is not love; clear and firm truth is.

Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.

Romans 16:17

Finding Strength in Trusting God

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FLOYD ROGERS

When life becomes confusing or overwhelming, it’s natural to wonder if God really sees what you’re going through. But the truth is, He cares. He is fully aware of every detail of your situation. Even if you don’t understand why something is happening, God invites you to trust Him through it. Choosing to put your life in His hands doesn’t mean you’ll have all the answers. It means you believe He is able to handle what you can’t.

In difficult times, God may be offering you a chance to experience His strength. This could also be a time for personal growth, a chance to come to know God more closely and understand His ways more deeply. Surrendering your questions and fears can become a step towards a stronger faith.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5

The Call to Encourage Others

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AMY TURNER

Every day we may meet someone carrying hidden pain. It can be easy to pass by without noticing, but often their hurt is clear if we take the time to look. A simple question such as, “Can I help you?” or “Are you doing alright?” can open the door for comfort.

God equips His people with spiritual gifts, and one of those is encouragement. Even a short word of reassurance can lift a heavy burden. Offering kindness does not require long speeches, but it does require a willing heart.

When we use the gifts God has given us, we reflect His care for others.

Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you also are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Understanding Christ’s True Mission for the Church

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JEFF TURNER

Some believers today debate the meaning of Christ’s final instructions to His followers before His ascension. Some interpret these words as a call to engage in community service projects, while others view them as encouragement for political involvement. But, a careful examination of the biblical text reveals a different purpose entirely.

Consider Matthew 28:19-20. I believe this provides clear direction about the church’s primary responsibility. The command centres on creating followers of Christ among people from every nation. This instruction does not include directives for charitable activities or social programs. Instead, it focuses specifically on spiritual transformation.

The method for fulfilling this commission involves two distinct steps. First, new believers must undergo baptism. This is their public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. This ceremonial act symbolizes their union with Christ’s death and resurrection, marking their entry into the Christian faith.

Second, these new disciples require ongoing instruction in Christian living. This teaching process helps believers understand and apply Christ’s teachings to their daily lives. The focus remains on spiritual growth and character development rather than addressing physical or social needs.
The promise accompanying this mission assures believers of God’s constant presence in their efforts. This partnership with God happens specifically when the work follows the prescribed pattern of gospel proclamation and discipleship training.

This does not mean Christians should ignore those facing hardship or poverty. Rather, it clarifies that the church’s fundamental calling involves transforming souls through the message of salvation. The emphasis lies on spiritual rescue and subsequent growth in faith.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Romans 1:16

Finding Strength Through Prayer and Faith

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FLOYD ROGERS

When challenges arise in life, it is important to remember where you stand. If you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your saviour, you have become a child of God. This means you now have access to His power and His promises. That is your position—your spiritual standing—based not on what you’ve done, but on your relationship with Christ.

In every situation, you have the right to turn to God. You can speak to Him, knowing that He listens and responds. The Bible encourages us in Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” God is not distant. He is willing to act on our behalf.

Prayer is not just a ritual. It is a privilege. God pays attention, and He responds because of the relationship we have through Jesus. Holding onto that truth gives us confidence, no matter the difficulty we face.

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name,

John 1:12