The word of God is sharper than any tow edged Sward

 Hebrews 4:11-13: - 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Here we can understand that the Word of God can even separate spiritual things which seem completely inter woven, such as the soul and spirit. This is not meant to be literal, as the Bible often uses these terms interchangeably. Rather,this is a graphic explanation of how completely God's Word can distinguish between the godly and ungodly. To man, the soul and spirit seem indistinguishable, but the Word of God can—metaphorically—even discern between these. This incredible "cutting" power of Scripture is therefore a tool to separate our very thoughts into good and evil.

The Bible provides everything we need to know the difference between truly selfless, spiritual deeds, and acts which are actually selfish and ungodly (Matthew 7:21–23). Jesus' condemnation of the Pharisees describes how outwardly pious behavior itself is not always obedience (Matthew 23). It is possible to read the Word and yet fail to follow God's will, due to rebellion (2 Peter 3:16) or pride (John 5:39–40).

The context of this verse is crucial. Hebrew 4, Verse 11 warned Christians to strive to obey God, lest we lose our heavenly rewards. Here in verse 12 we are reminded that the Word gives us all the power we need to learn the true will of God (Romans 12:2; Philippians 1:9). Verse 13 will point out that God's judgment is impossible to escape: nobody is beyond His sight (2 Corinthians 5:10). Even so, only in Christ do we find a God who truly understands our failures (Hebrews 4:14–1

Being silent and letting God speak is the only way the Christian life becomes real. The cross is a place of execution, not a place of willpower. If you are still trying to be a better version of yourself, you have not understood what the cross demands. By accepting the cross, you can find spiritual rest and overcome the obstacles that hold You back.

The cross does not perfect, destroy, or reform, but it ends. People often cling to parts of themselves that should have died long ago, fearing losing control and the illusion of security. This fear is not due to God, but because they can no longer control the results and receive recognition. This frustration is necessary because it pushes them to the end of themselves, which is the beginning of Christ.

Resisting, people try to balance spirituality with human life, but this exhausts them. The cross demands surrender, not strength. Since human being died spiritually due to sins and walked based on self (soul life), learned many wrong things which still make him to switch over to that side although saved by grace (spiritually regenerated). We carry many wrong things learned, called strong holds (work of the flesh as mentioned in Gal.5:19-21). Whereas the world of God says, we are crucified with Christ (Gal.2:20), but still swing both side (soul / spirit). We care called to walk in spirit (totally surrendered to God / died with Christ, not to lean on our own understanding (self-life) because self is crucified with Christ. 

We carry our own choices our own liking of disliking, do not like that person or this person, hatred, bitterness or like that and that is the works of the of flesh and not of the spirit. We are called to walk in spirit means, died in the Christ, not that person what we were before being born again but now Christ live in is. We are to live life by trusting on the word of God and not on ourselves. This is not possible overnight but we need to practice it by faith every day. Let us ask God to open the eyes of our mind to know that.

One can live in silence, away from applause and visibility, understanding that the way of the cross is not paved with praise but with renunciations. People often run from the power of the Spirit without the cross, seeking influence but not humiliation. The Spirit can only fill what has already been emptied, and the fight against resistance is often against themselves. God is waiting for people to surrender in truth, as they are fighting against their resistance and stubbornness in not accepting the process of death.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and surrendering to His will/words. As long as one tries to control/improve the flesh (self-life), the cross will continue to be just a speech, causing exhaustion disguised as spirituality. The Spirit works to expose one to freedom, not shame. 

To live a true Christian life, one must die and surrender to the finished work. This involves seeing situations differently, loving without expecting a response, and serving without expecting applause. This is freedom, and one is called to live with Christ, not as a concept but as an experience. Accepting that one has come to an end, such as pride and justifications, is crucial. The flesh does not need control, but the cross. 

Surrendering is necessary, and if the cross has not killed the old you, you have not yet known what it is to live in the Spiri.

Jesus said I give them Eternal Life

John 10:28 reads, "I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand." 

This verse emphasizes the security of believers in Jesus Christ, highlighting that those who follow him are granted eternal life and are protected from being lost or taken away. 

Explanation:

"I give them eternal life":

This signifies the gift of salvation and the promise of everlasting life with God for those who believe in Jesus. 

"they shall never perish":

This emphasizes the permanence of this gift, meaning believers will not experience spiritual death or separation from God. 

"no one will snatch them out of my hand":

This highlights the security of believers in Jesus's care. He is the shepherd, and his sheep are under his protection. 

"My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand.":

This verse, which follows John 10:28, emphasizes the combined power and authority of God the Father and Jesus Christ, further reinforcing the security of believers. 

Key takeaway: John 10:28 provides reassurance to believers that their salvation is secure in Christ's hands, and they are protected from losing their eternal life.

What does the Bible say about women pastors?

 What does the Bible say about women pastors?

There is perhaps no more hotly debated issue in the church today than that of women serving as pastors. As a result, it is important to not see this issue as men versus women. There are women who believe women should not serve as pastors and that the Bible places restrictions on the ministry of women, and there are men who believe women can serve as pastors and that there are no restrictions on women in ministry. This is not a matter of chauvinism or discrimination. It is an issue of biblical interpretation

The Word of God proclaims, “A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent” (1 Timothy 2:11–12). In the church, God assigns different roles to men and women. This is a result of the way mankind was created and the way in which sin entered the world (1 Timothy 2:13–14). God, through the apostle Paul, restricts women from serving in roles of teaching and/or having spiritual authority over men. This precludes women from serving as pastors over men, since pastoring definitely includes preaching, teaching publicly, and exercising spiritual authority.

There are many objections to this view of women in pastoral ministry. A common one is that Paul restricts women from teaching because in the first century, women were typically uneducated. However, 1 Timothy 2:11–14 nowhere mentions educational status. If education were a qualification for ministry, then the majority of Jesus’ disciples would not have been qualified. A second common objection is that Paul only restricted the women of Ephesus from teaching men (1 Timothy was written to Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus). Ephesus was known for its temple to Artemis, and women were the authorities in that branch of paganism—therefore, the theory goes, Paul was only reacting against the female-led customs of the Ephesian idolaters, and the church needed to be different. However, the book of 1 Timothy nowhere mentions Artemis, nor does Paul mention the standard practice of Artemis worshipers as a reason for the restrictions in 1 Timothy 2:11–12.

A third objection is that Paul is only referring to husbands and wives, not men and women in general. The Greek words for “woman” and “man” in 1 Timothy 2 could refer to husbands and wives; however, the basic meaning of the words is broader than that. Further, the same Greek words are used in verses 8–10. Are only husbands to lift up holy hands in prayer without anger and disputing (verse 8)? Are only wives to dress modestly, have good deeds, and worship God (verses 9–10)? Of course not. Verses 8–10 clearly refer to all men and women, not just husbands and wives. There is nothing in the context that would indicate a narrowing to husbands and wives in verses 11–14.

Yet another objection to this interpretation of women in pastoral ministry references women in positions of leadership in the Bible, specifically Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah in the Old Testament. It is true that these women were chosen by God for special service to Him and that they stand as models of faith, courage, and, yes, leadership. However, the authority of women in the Old Testament is not relevant to the issue of pastors in the church. The New Testament Epistles present a new paradigm for God’s people—the church, the body of Christ—and that paradigm involves an authority structure unique to the church, not for the nation of Israel or any other Old Testament entity.

Similar arguments are made using Priscilla and Phoebe in the New Testament. In Acts 18, Priscilla and Aquila are presented as faithful ministers for Christ. In verse 18, Priscilla’s name is mentioned first, suggesting to some that she was more prominent in ministry than her husband. (The detail of whose name comes first is probably inconsequential, because in verses 2 and 26 the order is reversed from that of verse 18.) Did Priscilla and her husband teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to Apollos? Yes, in their home they “explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). Does the Bible ever say that Priscilla pastored a church or taught publicly or became the spiritual leader of a congregation of saints? No. As far as we know, Priscilla was not involved in ministry activity in contradiction to 1 Timothy 2:11–14.

In Romans 16:1, Phoebe is called a “deacon” (or “servant”) in the church and is highly commended by Paul. But, as with Priscilla, there is nothing in Scripture to indicate that Phoebe was a pastor or a teacher of men in the church. “Able to teach” is given as a qualification for elders, but not for deacons (1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:6–9).

The structure of 1 Timothy 2:11–14 makes the reason why women cannot be pastors perfectly clear. Verse 13 begins with “for,” giving the “cause” of Paul’s statement in verses 11–12. Why should women not teach or have authority over men? Because “Adam was created first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived” (verses 13–14). God created Adam first and then created Eve to be a “helper” for Adam. The order of creation has universal application in the family (Ephesians 5:22–33) and in the church.

The fact that Eve was deceived is also given as a reason for women not serving as pastors or having spiritual authority over men (1 Timothy 2:14). This does not mean that women are gullible or that they are all more easily deceived than men. If all women are more easily deceived, why would they be allowed to teach children (who are easily deceived) and other women (who are supposedly more easily deceived)? The text simply says that women are not to teach men or have spiritual authority over men because Eve was deceived. God has chosen to give men the primary teaching authority in the church.

Many women excel in gifts of hospitality, mercy, teaching, evangelism, and helping/serving. Much of the ministry of the local church depends on women. Women in the church are not restricted from public praying or prophesying (1 Corinthians 11:5), only from having spiritual teaching authority over men. The Bible nowhere restricts women from exercising the gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12). Women, just as much as men, are called to minister to others, to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and to proclaim the gospel to the lost (Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15).

God has ordained that only men are to serve in positions of spiritual teaching authority in the church. This does not imply men are better teachers or that women are inferior or less intelligent. It is simply the way God designed the church to function. Men are to set the example in spiritual leadership—in their lives and through their words. Women are also to set an example in their lives, but in a different way (1 Peter 3:1-6). Women are encouraged to teach other women (Titus 2:3–5). The Bible also does not restrict women from teaching children. The only activity women are restricted from is teaching or having spiritual authority over men. This bars women from serving as pastors to men. This does not make women less important, by any means; rather, it gives them a ministry focus more in agreement with God’s design.

Bible view about pointing fingers at others

In the Bible, "pointing fingers" at others, especially in judgment or accusation, is generally discouraged and sometimes condemned. While there's no specific prohibition against all finger gestures, the focus is on avoiding condemnation, gossip, and malicious speech towards others. Instead, the Bible emphasizes humility, forgiveness, and addressing concerns privately with a loving attitude. 

Elaboration:

Discouraged Judgment:

The Bible, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:1-5), teaches against judging others, as it highlights the importance of self-reflection and recognizing one's own flaws before criticizing others. The saying "Judge not, that you be not judged" encapsulates this idea. 

Consequences of Finger-Pointing:

The Bible, in Isaiah 58:9, associates the "pointing of the finger" with wicked speech and oppression. It suggests that such behavior can hinder prayer and prevent blessings. 

Focus on Love and Reconciliation:

Instead of pointing fingers, the Bible encourages believers to address concerns privately with a brother or sister (Matthew 18:15-18). This approach emphasizes reconciliation and restoration rather than condemnation. 

Humility and Forgiveness:

The emphasis is on humility, recognizing that everyone is prone to error and sin. Forgiveness and extending grace to others are central to Christian teachings.

Avoiding Hypocrisy:

Jesus criticized those who point out the "speck" in their brother's eye while ignoring the "log" in their own (Matthew 7:3-5). This highlights the importance of self-awareness and avoiding hypocrisy in our interactions with others. 

Alternative Actions:

The Bible suggests focusing on actions that build up and encourage others, such as sharing meals, offering support, and demonstrating love. It also emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and accountability before God (Romans 14:12).

An example of Faith

 As an example of someone who prayed “the prayer of faith,” James referred to Elijah. By his prayer, Elijah withheld all rain for three and a half years, and then caused rain to fall again. (See James 5:17–18.) 

Scripture indicates that the giving and withholding of rain is a divine prerogative, exercised by God Himself. (See, for example, Deuteronomy 11:13–17 and Jeremiah 5:24; 14:22.) Yet, for three and a half years, Elijah exercised this prerogative on God’s behalf. 

James emphasized that Elijah was “a man with a nature like ours” (James 5:17)—a human being just like the rest of us. But as long as he was enabled to pray with God’s faith, the words he uttered were as effective as God’s own decrees.

However, faith of this kind does not need to operate through a spoken word only. It was by this same kind of supernatural faith that Jesus was able to walk on the stormy Sea of Galilee. (See Matthew 14:25–33.) 

In this case, He did not need to speak; He merely walked out onto the water. Peter began to follow the example of Jesus and to exercise the same kind of faith. This enabled him to do precisely the same thing that Jesus was doing.

But when he looked away from Jesus to the waves, his faith deserted him, and he began to sink! 

The comment that Jesus made is very illuminating: “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31). Jesus did not reprove Peter for wanting to walk on the water. He reproved him for losing faith in the middle of doing so.

Two natures in men

 The concept of "two natures in men" in the Bible, particularly related to believers, refers to the idea that individuals have a natural, fallen nature inherited from Adam and a new, spiritual nature given through faith in Christ. The old, natural nature is associated with sin and weakness, while the new nature, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enables believers to live a life pleasing to God. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

The Old Nature (Fallen Nature):

This is the nature inherited from Adam's fall, characterized by sin and a tendency towards self-centeredness. It's also referred to as the "flesh" or "old man" in some contexts according to the Bible. 

The New Nature (Spiritual Nature):

This is the new life given to believers through faith in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. It's associated with righteousness, holiness, and a desire to live in accordance with God's will. 

 The Conflict:

The two natures often exist in tension within a believer, leading to a struggle between the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit according.

Overcoming the Old Nature:

Believers are called to "crucify the flesh" or "walk by the Spirit," which involves actively choosing to live according to the new nature and seeking the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit. 

The Ultimate Hope:

The ultimate hope for believers is that the old, fallen nature will be completely eradicated in the resurrection, when they receive a new, glorified body according to doctrine.org. 

This understanding of the "two natures" is not a simple dualism (where body and soul are seen as separate and opposed), but rather a concept that emphasizes the believer's ongoing struggle toward spiritual growth and transformation according to Ligonier Ministries. It highlights the power of the Holy Spirit to renew and transform the believer, enabling them to live a life of holiness and righteousness.

TRUST IN THE LORD, NOT IN SELF

 (2 Corinthians 1:9). 

This dramatic statement by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul has given me a much needed explanation of my life’s journey and the strength to continue it with hope and spiritual vigor. Not trusting in ourselves is a major hurdle that we all must face and overcome. Generally, we face our hurdles without recognizing that they are not our real problem. Often, we look at difficulties as the devil coming against us; therefore, we pray and pray believing that the Lord will remove our impediments without realizing that they are designed to destroy self-trust. 

Trusting in ourselves is our real hurdle. 

Self-trust is a weapon that the enemy often uses to defeat us. Paul says that the sentence of death in ourselves is God-ordained; that we should not trust in ourselves, but in the ever-present, all knowing, and all powerful God.  

The scriptures say, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes” (Proverbs 3: 5-7). 

These scriptures tell us how to be victorious in all situations and circumstances. We are to trust the Lord with all our heart and not be wise in our own eyes! We must not lean on our own understanding or trust in our natural wisdom because our understanding and wisdom are inadequate and limited. Jesus is the Wisdom of God. Let’s practice leaning on and acknowledging Him in everything we do. This is His road to success. The promise is that He will direct our paths. 

We are designed by God to live in total dependence upon Him. It was Adam’s independence that caused our problems.

 Disobedience says, “I’m my own person.” It is an expression of self-trust and not trust in the Lord. Trusting in the Lord means obeying Him and depending on Him even when you don’t understand. 

Let us thank the Lord in all our trials because He is bringing us to the end of ourselves. When we no longer have self to depend on, we will have learned to depend upon and trust Jesus, our Lord.