Heavenly language? What language will we speak in heaven? Biblically

There is some hypothesis as to whether there is such a thing as a “heavenly language.” Is there a language unknown on earth but spoken fluently in heaven? If so, is it possible for someone to learn to speak this mysterious/cryptic language? Is it possibly a gift of the Holy Spirit?

For many think that if they use any Idiome, it is Hebrew, because that was the first of all, and came from heaven, and was before the confusion of languages in Babylon, in which the Law was given by God the Father, and the Gospel was preached by Christ the Son, and so many prophesis were given to the Prophets by the Holy Spirit.

Yet, a language will be spoken in heaven, and if we accept that the multiple languages we experience on earth are all imperfect representations of reality, none of them can be the language we will speak in that perfect place. 

Although the Bible does not address this directly, there are three passages that imply both the use of language and a significant improvement upon it. 

".....You shall be called by a new name, Which the mouth of the Lord will name". Isa. 62:2 NKJV

“....To him who overcomes I will give .... him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it". Rev. 2:17 NKJV

"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God.... And I will write on him My new name". Rev. 3:12 NKJV

Each of these passages indicates a "new" naming system, and a very special one at that.

For me, I think, the creator of multiple languages can understand it and able to reply us. God is omnipotent, He knows what to expose to His people and what not. Some times God does it with intention. If there is not a separate language in heaven, not to worry, God still knows what you want to express or say.

Keeping your Vows/Oaths, Biblically.

A little background information is helpful in understanding Jesus’ words here. The religious leaders of the day advocated keeping a vow if it was a public vow using God’s name; however, if the vow was made in the course of everyday conversation, referencing only “heaven” or “earth” or “Jerusalem,” it was not really binding. People had a loophole. They could lie or exaggerate in their conversations and lend themselves an air of credibility by saying, “I swear by heaven that this is true!” They could not be held to account because they did not specifically swear by God’s name and the vow was private. Jesus countered that idea. If you swear something, it had better be true, He says. In fact, all you need to say is “yes” or “no.” Your word should be good.

When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He  has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed— Better not to vow than to vow and not pay. Eccl. 5:4‭-‬5 NKJV

If a man makes a vow to the Lord , or swears an oath to bind himself by some agreement, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. Num. 30:2 NKJV

Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘When either a man or woman consecrates an offering to take the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the Lord,

Num. 6:2 NKJV

6:2 The Nazirite was either a man or woman who dedicated himself or herself fully to God for a stated period of time. Parents could dedicate their children as Nazirites for their whole life. This was done in the case of Samson, the only person in the Bible mentioned by name as being a Nazirite (Judges 13:5). It is possible that Samuel was one, judging from his mother’s vow in 1 Sam 1:11. Certainly he was dedicated to the Lord for life (1 Sam 1:27-28). There were other Nazirites too but we are not told any of their names (Amos 2:11-12). It is said of John the Baptist that he would drink no wine (Luke 1:15), possibly indicating that he was to be a Nazirite. In this Church age all believers are to fully dedicate themselves to God (Rom. 12:1-2), they are to be spiritual Nazirites – which has nothing to do with not eating grapes or having long hair.

Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.’  But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne;  nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.  Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black.  But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one. Matt. 5:33‭-‬37 NKJV

5:33-37 “Swear”– refers to the voluntary (and often very careless) use of oaths in every day life to convince others that one is telling the truth. Jesus tells us to be men of our word, absolutely truthful in all we say and promise. As Jesus’ disciples we must never say yes when we mean no, or say no when we mean yes. Lying and deception are hateful to God and have no place in God’s kingdom. And as God’s children we should never take God’s name in vain or use it lightly, but show proper reverence for His name and all that pertains to Him (Ex 20:7).

The principle here is clear for Christians: be careful about making vows, either to the Lord or to one another. Further, the informal vows we make (“I swear by all the angels in heaven!”) are completely unnecessary. Our word is our bond.

Baptism and being Baptized.

Why Baptism?

The purpose of baptism is to give visual testimony of our commitment to Christ. 

Baptism confirms our position “in Christ” and affirms the blessings of the Father on us as his children. Baptism is a symbol. It’s meant to show the world that that you love, trust and have put your hope in Christ. 

Baptism is a Public Declaration:

Baptism declares that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a public confession of your faith in, and commitment to, Jesus Christ. It is the next step after salvation through repentance and faith and is an important foundation for Christian life.

We bury the “old life” and we rise to walk in a “new life”. 

Baptism is like the outward symbol of our commitment which we made in our heart, a commitment that has to be followed through and lived out on a daily basis.

Origin of the Word:

The word “baptized” comes from the Greek word “baptizo”. A famous Greek-English dictionary gives its meaning thus: “Dip, immerse...plunge, sink, drench, overwhelm.

John’s baptism signified repentance and the forgiveness of sins, but it did not produce them. 

No water ceremony of any kind or in any place can take away sin or change men’s hearts. Only God can do so. And He does so when men receive His Son by faith.

Meaning of Baptism:

"Buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead". Col. 2:12 NKJV

We were therefore buried with Him through this immersion into death”. “Immersion” would thus mean immersion into Christ, not in water. It would indicate union with Christ, entering into a special relationship with Him, being made members of His body by the Holy Spirit.

Going into the water speaks of death and burial with Christ. Coming out of the water speaks of resurrection with Christ. 

Who and When should be baptised?

Every person who has made the decision to believe in Christ.

As soon as a person decides to believe in Christ, he/she can be, and is encouraged to be baptised.

Does Born Christian have to take Baptism? YES.

"Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit". Acts 2:38 NKJV

Peter’s meaning here seems very clear – “Change your mind about Who Jesus is, turn from your wicked rejection of Him as the Lord from heaven and the Messiah. Being baptized as an open declaration of our faith in Him, and as a sign of the forgiveness of sins which He freely gives to those who believe in Him”.

"He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned". Mark 16:16 NKJV

Baptism is not essential for salvation, but those who trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour should be baptized and publicly acknowledge their faith. 

Notice Jesus does not say “whoever is not baptized” will be condemned, but “whoever does not believe”. “Condemned” here must mean condemned to hell.

If a person says he believes Christ, and yet refuses to be baptized we have reason to doubt the genuineness of his faith.

A Man Born Blind Receives Sight. True Vision and True Blindness. John Chapter 9.

Whenever we see God makes a miracle, it's pure purpose is to bring glory.

Now, here we see a person who is blind from birth. In those days among the Jews it was a common thinking that a person’s own sins were the cause of any sickness or disability that might come to him. The disciples were trying to understand if this applied to a person born with some defect. Was the man’s blindness a punishment that came because of his parents’ sin? or did the man somehow sin himself before he was born?

Jesus says that the man was born blind for a much higher purpose that the disciples imagined. A mighty work of God was about to take place in the man, and glory and honor would come to God through it. 

God may have the same purpose in any sickness, disability or defect that brings suffering to us. It may be that a similar work of God will be revealed in us. Or a different work which will also glorify Him – a work in the heart that will make us humbly, faithfully, joyously endure any kind of suffering for Him.

Remember, to receive any miracle in our life, God checks that if you are eligible to receive it or not. To receive it, you must contain the dareness and willing to give thanks to the Lord for doing such a miracle.

Here in this story, we'll see that the God makes a mud and paste it on his eyes and says to wash it in a pool. In those days or some pools have steps, this Blind person goes alone to wash his eyes without anybody's help. This maybe a dare I guess. 

We can see that some of God's miracles are taken place on Sabbath Day. Here, Jews/Pharisees are against it. They follow the Moses law book. 

Pharisees, ofcourse doesn't like Jesus, after this miracle took place they start interrogate the healed person, asking him: How does Jesus did this wonder? The Healed person answers them more than 3-4 times and gets frustrated, and asks them that maybe they are willing to become Jesus's disciple. 

When we receive any miracle or wonder, most probably we don't give thanksgiving or worship God, if some of you does, then it's great. After hearing that blind person was exiled by the Jews and his parents, Jesus here visits that healed person and sees whether he is misusing his vision or sharing the miracle.

In few vesres Jesus teaches something amazing to those people, which is useful to us in now-a-days. HE is saying that HE is the Light of the World, with Him we can receive light and able to see the things, the things which are in darkness with the light of the Lord we can see very clearly.

And Jesus said, “For judgement I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind.”

In this verse Jesus is obviously speaking of spiritual blindness and sight. When He says those who “see will become blind”, He means those who have light, who think they see and even pride themselves on seeing, will be made completely blind. This was a judgement they brought on themselves by refusing the light of Christ.

Men are responsible for what they do with the light God gives them. 

In other words, we can say that light as salvation, having the salvation and doing wrong things would bring judgement on them.

Whenever we seek God's help, try to receive it humbly by praying and reading Bible. And after receiving the miracle/help/wonder try to say thank you Lord (thanksgiving).

If God wants you to add dareness in receiving the miracle, then don't hesitate, what will others think and what this world will say. As this Blind person dared to receive the vision and after being exiled by the Jews and by his parents, he believed in the son of God, and started telling to others How Jesus healed him when he was blind by birth.

Notes:

“Pharisees”– a strict, conservative, very religious sect among the Jews. They emphasized the law of Moses and the religious traditions that had come down from previous generations. Many of them were very self-righteous and separated themselves from others, thinking they were holier than anyone else (the name “Pharisee” came from the Hebrew word “pharash” which means to separate or set apart). But their deeds did not match their words and Jesus severely condemned them for their hypocrisy. In the New Testament they are usually seen in opposition to the Lord Jesus.

Moses was their accuser. He meant that the God-inspired writings of Moses (the first five books of the Bible) condemned them. This was because they did not really believe what he wrote (though they may have thought they did) and did not practice the truth he recorded.

How to kill negative thoughts? How can I overcome negative thinking?

Chronic negative thinking, depression, anxiety, and similar disorders are on the rise all over the world. 

When a Christian’s thinking is primarily negative, anxious, or doubtful, it’s a sign of a serious lack of faith. 

Those who struggle with negative thinking should do the same thing they would do with any other sin—confess it (agree with God that negative thinking is wrong because it reveals a lack of trust) and make every effort to change the behavior.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are  noble, whatever things are  just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are  lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there  is any virtue and if there  is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Philippians 4:8

“Meditate/Think on these things”– our mind, our thoughts are exceedingly important in the spiritual life. To a large extent they will determine our actions. 

• Believers should have minds made new – Rom 12:2. 

• They should set their thoughts on heavenly things – Col 3:2. 

• They should keep their thoughts on the things of God’s Word. 

• Sinful things, worldly things, evil things are attractive to the sinful nature in us – Gal 5:16-17. 

If we let our thoughts dwell on such things we may be overcome with the desire for them. If our thoughts are always on true, pure, and excellent things we will be better able to reject and subdue sinful desires. 

So we should be very careful what we read, what things we watch, what kind of music we listen to, where we allow our imaginations to take us. If we fill our minds with things unworthy for believers in Christ we may soon be living lives unworthy of Christ.

• Prayer is a key part of overcoming negativity. Jesus taught that prayer should include praise to the Father and a focus on His holiness (Matthew 6:9; see also Psalm 95:2). As we pray “with thanksgiving” (Philippians 4:6), we focus on the blessings we have received and leave no room for negative thoughts. The Holy Spirit will be faithful to help the repentant believer overcome negative thinking (Matthew 7:7–11).

• Daily Bible reading, particularly studies that focus on the promises of God, are of great help in overcoming negative thinking. It’s helpful to remember that, no matter how dismal the present circumstances, Christians have been promised God’s love and victory in Christ (Romans 8:37–39; 2 Corinthians 2:14).

Christians must think about what they’re thinking about and not allow their minds to have free rein. In our spiritual warfare, we’ve been given the helmet of salvation—spiritual armor for the mind.

Is God's promises lasts forever? Covenant vs Promise.

The Psalm chp. 105 reveals God’s sovereignty over both the history of Israel and the acts of sinful men. Notice carefully how God was involved in ruling over everything – vs 14,16,17,24,25,26, etc. He was continually at work to fulfill His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob – vs 8-10. 

We might say this is the psalm concerning God’s covenant with Abraham, just as Psalm 89 is the psalm of His covenant with David. Like Psalms 78 and 106, this one deals with history. 

Ps 78 was given chiefly for the purpose of teaching and exhortation. Ps 106 is a confession of Israel’s many sins. 

But this psalm rejoices in the mighty acts of the LORD God and there is no mention at all of the sin of Israel. The first 15 verses are found in 1 Chron 16:8-22. From that reference we may judge that David wrote it.

All God did is what He did to fulfill His covenant and promises. To do that (fulfill promise) God would be willing to move heaven and earth.

In the introduction (vs 1-7) David sets forth seven duties or privileges of God’s people –

1) Giving thanks,

2) Praying,

3) Making known God’s deeds,

4) Singing to God or about God,

5) Glorying in Him,

6) Seeking Him, And 

7) Remembering His wonderful works and words.

Following these instructions will result in a healthy spiritual life in any believer.

Covenant vs Promise:

But I will establish My covenant with you.

Gen. 6:18

In this verse the first use in the Bible of the word “covenant” occurs. It is a very important word, used nearly 300 times. 

The Hebrew word (Covenant) means an agreement between two or more parties (21:27; 26:28; 2 Sam 3:12-13), whereas a Promise given by one party to another (Gen 9:8-11). 

Sometimes there were conditions laid down, sometimes not. There was often some sign given and a sacrifice offered in connection with the establishment of a covenant.

God made very important covenants with men on several occasions –

1) with Noah and all mankind (9:8-17);

2) with Abraham and his descendants (15:18-21);

3) with the nation Israel (Ex 19:5);

4) with David and his offspring (2 Sam 7:16); and 

5) The New Covenant (Matt 26:27-29).

Old Testament vs New Testament:

The first part of the Bible is called the Old Testament (or Covenant) because it has to do for the most part with God’s covenant made with Israel at Sinai (Ex 19:5). 

The second part of the Bible is called the New Testament (or Covenant) because it has to do with the covenant Christ made with His disciples just before His crucifixion.

“I am the vine, you are the branches." John 15:5

I think Jesus here talking about or mentioning the Israelites as Israelites was God’s unfaithful vine. But Jesus is the true and faithful vine and the Father is the vinedresser.

Here is a parable regarding the nation of Israel as a whole and the tribe of Judah in particular. (See Isa. 5:1-7). Those who thought of themselves as God’s people are called a vineyard.

First, both the fruitless branch and the fruitful branch refer to true believers. The phrase every branch in Me, which refers to genuine believers. Elsewhere in the NT, nonbelievers are never said to be “in Me (Christ)” in any sense. 

The verb translated takes away can just as easily be translated “lifts up,” denoting the Vinedresser’s action in stimulating growth in a fruitless branch (God helping a fruitless believer to produce fruit). 

In the viticulture of Israel, late fall was the season for removing dead branches (v. 6). The springtime (the time of the upper room message and Jesus’ death) was the season to “lift up” fruitless branches from the ground to encourage productivity. The fruitful branch (i.e., a fruitful believer) receives pruning (divine discipline) so that it might be even more fruitful.

HE is speaking of what happens to literal branches cut from a vine. He does not say that some believers may not remain in Him and that if they do not, they will be burned in the fires of hell. That will be the fate of unbelievers, like Judas Iscariot, but not of believers. 

If any believer fears it might happen to him let him be sure to take hold of all the truth Christ taught and remain in Him. Then he will certainly not fall away.

Publicity of the Bible Authors/Writers?

The writers of the Bible were not concerned with promoting themselves. They would all have agreed with the psalmist who said “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory” (Ps 115:1). 

They wrote by the inspiration of the one true God (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:21), and their concern was to record exactly what God inspired them to record. In a very real sense the author of every book of the Bible was God Himself using human instruments. 

This does not mean that the writers of the Bible were like robots or inanimate word processors. God took the writers as they were, with their faults and failings, with their human intellects and emotions and wills, and worked in them and through them to bring His Word into the world, just as He wanted it to be. 

God is great enough and wise enough to be able to do this, and He did do it. Men wrote the Bible, but what they wrote came from the mouth of God (Matt 4:4).

What is the "Kingdom of God"? How and Who will enter into it?

From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand". Matt. 4:17 (NKJV).

The kingdom of God is referenced often in the gospels (e.g., Mark 1:15; 10:15; 15:43; Luke 17:20) and other places in the New Testament (e.g., Acts 28:31; Rom. 14:17; 1st Cor. 15:50). The kingdom of God is synonymous with the kingdom of heaven. The concept of the kingdom of God takes on various shades of meaning in different passages of Scripture.

The kingdom of God is the rule of an eternal, sovereign God over all the universe. Several passages of Scripture show that God is the undeniable Monarch of all creation: “The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all” (Psa. 103:19).

“Kingdom of heaven” – this phrase is found only in Matthew. 

Mark, Luke, and John all use the similar phrase “kingdom of God". The teaching about God’s kingdom is a very important one in the New Testament.  It is referred to nearly 50 times in Matthew and about 140 times in the New Testament as a whole.

Kingdom of “heaven” indicates a rule that is spiritual and heavenly, having its source in heaven.  Kingdom of “God” means God’s rule among men or in men’s hearts. Sometimes God’s kingdom means the outward sphere of His rule, sometimes the inner spiritual rule in the hearts of His believers.

Both John the Baptist and the Lord Jesus spoke of the kingdom as being “near".  This was because Jesus the King from heaven was on the scene and His ministry was beginning.

So, there would be a new and greater manifestation of God’s rule than was known in Old Testament days.

Who are eligible to enter into it? And How?

The kingdom of God is a spiritual rule over the hearts and lives of those who willingly submit to God’s authority. Those who defy God’s authority and refuse to submit to Him are not part of the kingdom of God; in other words, those who acknowledge the lordship of Christ and gladly surrender to God’s rule in their hearts are part of the kingdom of God.

How to surrender ourselves?

“Repent” - and “repentance” are very important words in the Bible. Noun and verb together are used more than 70 times.

Repentance means a complete change of mind and heart which produces a change in behavior. As John and the Lord Jesus and His disciples used the word it means to turn to God from wrong thinking and wrong doing and accept God’s Word and God’s will as the rule of life. True Biblical repentance results in sorrow for sins committed and a desire to be free from all sin.

For those who have been rejecting Christ it means to turn to Him and receive Him as Lord and Saviour. Repentance is linked with that true faith which receives salvation. A person without repentance is without true faith and so without salvation. The person who is not willing to turn from all his sins - especially the sin of not trusting in Christ and putting others or other things above Him - will not know salvation from his sins.

John preached repentance because the people of Israel were sunk in sin and unbelief and were not ready to receive the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Their condition was like that described in Isa. 1:4.

The kingdom of God involves repentance and the new birth, as God rules in the hearts of His children in this world in preparation for the next (salvation).

Being a Bless, Blessed and Blessing, Biblically.

“Bless” - Blessing may mean either material or spiritual blessing. 

1) Spiritual blessings, of course, are far more important than material (see Matt 5:3-12; Luke 6:20-26). 

2) Material blessings are temporary, spiritual blessings are related to eternity (see Eph 1:3; Matt 6:19-21). 

“Bless” - Faith in God and obedience to Him bring great blessing, not only to the individual who practices them but to many others.

"Blessed” - This is a translation of a Greek word meaning happy. However it does not mean here a feeling of happiness in the heart, but a happy state, a blessed condition, one that will mean at last eternal joy in God’s presence.

The word when used in the New Testament of people speaks of spiritual blessing, the blessing that comes to those who are in God’s kingdom and ruled by God. They have a share in God’s happy condition.

This does not mean that the blessed in God’s kingdom on earth will never know sorrow or will always experience the emotion of happiness. The fullness of their joy awaits the future. But they have a foretaste of it now, for God shares His joy with His people (John 15:11; 17:13; Rom 14:17; 15:13).

True blessedness comes only when we are linked with the true God and His blessedness. The whole Bible was given that men might know of this and come to share it.

Observe that Abraham not only received God’s blessing, he became a blessing to others.

How Many Times Should I Ask (or) Pray to God For Something?

"And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do.  For they think that they will be heard for their many words." Matt. 6:7 (NKJV).

Our praying should be neither mechanical nor in ignorance. A name repeated over and over (see 1 Kings 18:26; Acts 19:34), or a formula of words constantly repeated, or piling up words to convince God to listen - such things have no power at all with God. 

God does not require our babbling to know what we need and give it to us. We do not need to wake Him up, or capture His attention (Ps 34:15; 121:2-5; 2 Chron 16:9). And we need not instruct Him about the things that are necessary for us to have. 

Tattoos and Body Piercings (Body Modification) – What Does The Bible Say?

Body modification, including piercing, tattooing, scarring, branding, cutting, and outright mutilation, has been an increasing trend in recent years. Body piercing-the insertion of jewelry in various body parts-has graduated from the traditional ear lobe piercing to the piercing of noses, navels, breasts/chests, tongues, eyebrows, cheeks, genitalia, and more. Many Christians have a piercing or two, and some have many more than two; no matter what the issue, it’s good to stop and consider what the Bible says.

This topic will be a very sensitive one for many in this day and age. As you all know, many people like to get different types of tattoos and body piercing put on the different parts of their bodies.

You will see people getting tattoos on just about any part of the human anatomy, even on their most intimate, personal, and private parts. The same goes with the different types of body piercing.

For those of you who are really wanting to know what the Lord may think about this issue, I would challenge each and everyone of you to go before Him in prayer and ask for His direct opinion on this matter. I know there is a bit of a rift in the Body on this issue right now.

On the one side are those who believe that God’s command back to the Jewish people in the Book of Leviticus no longer applies to any of us in this day and age since we are now operating under a New Covenant with Jesus and we are now no longer under the law, but under grace.

On the other side are those who believe that this command still applies to everyone in this day and age, and that God has not changed His mind on this issue.

In addition to the verse from Leviticus, I believe there are several other verses that you have to match up with that one to get what God’s opinion may really be on this issue.

The Scripture Verses:

I believe there are few key Scripture verses that need to be grouped together to get what God’s opinion may really be on this issue.

1) You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord. Levi. 19:28.

The very first verse is from the Book of Leviticus back in the Old Testament. God was telling His chosen people what they could and could not do in their personal relationship and interaction with Him.

As we all know, God gave them quite a bit of rules, regulations, and commandments that He wanted them to abide by. This one particular command was one of them.

Notice this verse specifically isolates not only tattoos, but any “cuttings on the flesh”, which I believe relates to all of the different types of body piercing people are now getting these days.

Also note that God was referring to them making any kinds of tattoos or cuttings in their flesh “for the dead.” Lord God was flat out telling His own people that they were not to engage in this type of activity. Notice that God uses the word “any” tattoos and “any” cuttings” in their flesh.

If Lord God did not want His special chosen people back in the Old Testament to be putting on any kinds of tattoos and cuttings in their flesh, does He still have that same opinion today with all of His New Testament believers?

2) Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.  For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Matt. 5:17‭-‬18.

3) Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are. 1st Cor. 3:16‭-‬17.

4) Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who  is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1st Cor. 6:19‭-‬20.

Forming a biblically informed opinion on body piercings/tattooing requires us to examine the principles of the Word of God and ask ourselves some pertinent questions:

• What is my motivation for getting a body piercing/tattooing? 

Our motives are important in any decision we make (Prov.16:2), especially something as permanent and potentially life-changing as a body piercing/tattooing.

• Am I trying to find identity in a subculture? 

Body piercing/tattooing has given rise to a definite subculture, and many people try to “find themselves” by joining the bodymod community. While joining a particular cultural group might help in evangelizing that group, to join simply to “find oneself” is not biblical. As believers, our identity is in Christ: “You died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3).

• Am I submitting myself to seek pressure? 

Doing anything out of a desire to please one’s attention is spiritually hazardous. We are to follow the Lord Jesus (see John 21:21-22). Those who follow peer pressure in getting a body piercing/tattooing find themselves in the ironic position of having proclaimed their uniqueness through conformity.

• Am I stressing appearance over substance? 

The Bible clearly emphasizes the inner spiritual qualities of a person and downplays the “outward adornment” (1st Pet. 3:3-4). The majority of our effort should be directed at increasing in godliness, not grooming a particular look.

• Am I drawing undue attention to myself? Any item of clothing, accessory, or jewelry worn simply as a fashion statement runs the risk of feeding pride in that it draws attention to the wearer. Bringing public focus to certain body parts, pushing boundaries, or creating a flashy display is not a godly reason for a body piercing, especially when we have this command in Scripture: “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility” (1st Pet. 5:5).

• Will this body piercing/tattooing be an obstacle to ministry? 

It’s conceivable that, in some situations, having a body piercing/tattooing will aid a believer in his witness to others. And, if the piercing/tattoo is decorated with Christian-themed jewelry, it could be a conversation-starter that leads to spiritual themes. But, for others, certain types of body piercings/tattoos may hinder attempts to share the gospel. 

We are Christ’s ambassadors, delivering God’s message to the world (2nd Cor. 5:20). We must consider what message the body piercing sends and whether it will aid or detract from representing Christ and sharing the gospel.

• Where do I draw the line? 

According to Guinness World Records, the record for total body piercings is 453 (male) and 462 (female). Those considering multiple piercings should be able to answer the question “how much is too much?” with specificity. At what point does body modification become extreme? How far can Christians go and still “honor God with your bodies” (1st Cor. 6:20)? Beyond piercings, questions should be asked about scarification, branding, facial flesh tunnels, skin implants, split tongues, pointed ears, sharpened teeth, and other things promoted within the modern bodymod community.

Of course, we could also ask where we draw the line on other, more socially acceptable body modifications such as breast implants, tummy tucks, face lifts, and such. Some of the same questions about motivation and appearance need honest answers if we are to do “all for the glory of God” (1st Cor. 10:31).

An important scriptural principle on issues the Bible does not specifically address is that, if there is room for doubt whether it pleases God, then it is best not to engage in that activity. Anything that does not come from faith is sin (Rom. 14:23). Our bodies, as well as our souls, have been redeemed and belong to God (1st Cor. 6:20). Since our bodies belong to God and are the temple of the Holy Spirit, we should make sure it is His will before we modify them with body piercings.

So, if Lord God is telling His chosen people that He did not want them tattooing or putting any kinds of cuttings into their flesh - and their bodies were not even considered to be the temple of His Holy Spirit back in those Old Testament times - then how much more seriously should this command be taken by all New Testament believers, since all of our bodies are now considered to be the actual temple of the Holy Spirit?

As the above verses are telling us, our bodies have now become the temple of the Lord Himself.

We are no longer our own. As a result, we should be doing everything we can to glorify our God - which includes glorifying Him in our bodies as the above verse is telling us to do.

Marking up our bodies with the different kinds of tattoos and body piercing may not be what the Lord had in mind when He is telling us to glorify Him in both our bodies and our spirits.

And just as we would never consider marking up or defacing any parts of an actual Christian Church building - in the same way I do not believe that our Lord wants us defacing or marking up any parts of our physical bodies.

For those of you who have a good ability to pick up an inner witness from the Holy Spirit on many different matters in your life, simply tap in and see what kind of inner witness you get from Him once you entertain the thought of wanting to put any kind of tattoo on your body, or make an attempt to want to put any kind of body piercing on your navel, tongue, eyelids, breasts/chests or to any parts of your genitalia - knowing full well that you carry His presence right there on the inside of your physical body.

What kind of witness do you get from the Holy Spirit when you tap in to see what His opinion may really be on this kind of a matter?

My own inner witness tells me that He does not want us getting any kinds of tattoos or cuttings done on our bodies - and that if we do, it is a form of defilement since our bodies are now His Holy Temple.

Prayer, it's types of Prayer and Bowing and Kneeling in Prayer.

What is Prayer?

The most basic definition of prayer is “talking to God”. Prayer is not meditation or passive reflection; it is direct address to God. It is the communication of the human soul with the Lord who created the soul. Prayer is the primary way for the believer in Jesus Christ to communicate his emotions and desires with God and to fellowship with God.

Prayer can be audible or silent, private or public, formal or informal. All prayer must be offered in faith (Jam. 1:6), in the name of the Lord Jesus (John 16:23), and in the power of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:26).

What are the different types of Prayer?

The Bible reveals many types of prayers and employs a variety of words to describe the practice. For example, 1st Tim. 2:1 says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” Here, all four of the main Greek words used for prayer are mentioned in one verse.

The main types of prayers in the Bible:

1) The prayer of Faith:

Jam. 5:15 says, “And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.” In this context, prayer is offered in faith for someone who is sick, asking God to heal. When we pray, we are to believe in the power and goodness of God (Mark 9:23).

2) The prayer of Agreement (also known as Corporate prayer):

After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples “all joined together constantly in prayer” (Acts 1:14). Later, after Pentecost, the early church “devoted themselves” to prayer (Acts 2:42). Their example encourages us to pray with others.

3) The prayer of Request (or Supplication): 

We are to take our requests to God. Philip. 4:6 teaches, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Part of winning the spiritual battle is to be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” (Eph. 6:18).

4) The prayer of Thanksgiving: 

We see another type of prayer in Philip. 4:6: thanksgiving or thanks to God. “With thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Many examples of thanksgiving prayers can be found in the Psalms.

5) The prayer of Worship:

The prayer of worship is similar to the prayer of thanksgiving. The difference is that worship focuses on who God is; thanksgiving focuses on what God has done. 

6) The prayer of Consecration (or Dedication):

Sometimes, prayer is a time of setting ourselves apart to follow God’s will. Jesus made such a prayer the night before His crucifixion: “And going a little further he fell on his face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will’” (Matt. 26:39).

7) The prayer of Intercession (or Appeal/Petition): 

Many times, our prayers include requests for others as we intercede for them. We are told to make intercession “for everyone” in 1st Tim. 2:1. Jesus serves as our example in this area. The whole of John 17 is a prayer of Jesus on behalf of His disciples and all believers.

8) The prayer of Imprecation (or Curse): 

Imprecatory prayers are found in the Psalms (e.g., 7, 55, 69). They are used to invoke God’s judgment on the wicked and thereby avenge the righteous. The psalmists use this type of appeal to emphasize the holiness of God and the surety of His judgment. Jesus teaches us to pray for blessing on our enemies, not cursing (Matt. 5:44-48).

The Bible also speaks of praying in the Spirit (1st Cor. 14:14-15) and prayers when we are unable to think of adequate words (Rom. 8:26-27). In those times, the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us.

Prayer is conversation with God and should be made without ceasing (1st Thess. 5:16-18). As we grow in our love for Jesus Christ, we will naturally desire to talk to Him.

What does the Bible say about bowing or kneeling in Prayer?

Psalm 95:6 says, “Come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.” Bowing and kneeling have long been associated with worship and reverence (2nd Chron. 6:13; Psa. 138:2; Dan. 6:10). 

In fact, the Hebrew word for “worship” actually means “bow down.” But is bowing or kneeling the only posture we are to take in worshiping or praying?

The first instance took place in the Bible of bowing in reverence is in Gen. 18:2 when the three heavenly visitors came to Abraham. He knew they represented God, and he bowed to the ground in welcome. A few generations later, Pharaoh, king of Egypt, ordered all Egyptians to bow to Joseph as a sign of respect for the former slave promoted to second-in-command (Gen. 41:42-43). 

So, very early in human history, bowing or kneeling came to represent taking a humble position before someone of greater importance.

Bowing and kneeling were not the only postures:

Moses and Aaron fell facedown before the Lord, and His glory overshadowed them (Num. 20:6). Ezekiel fell facedown in grief, crying out to the Lord, and the Lord answered him (Eze. 11:13-14). The Levites were to “stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD. They were to do the same in the evening” (1st Chron. 23:30). King David “went in and sat before the Lord” to pray (2nd Sam. 7:18). Jesus “lifted His eyes toward heaven” when He offered His longest recorded prayer (John 17), and Paul exhorted “men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing” (1st Tim. 2:8). According to the Bible, there is more than one right posture for worship or prayer.

While physical representations of worship are important, and our entire being should be engaged in worship of God, the posture of our hearts is of more importance than the position of our bodies.

True worship is a lifestyle, not an activity. While dedicated times of intense communion with God are vital to our spiritual health, we are also told to “pray without ceasing” (1st Thess. 5:17). Our bodies are to be living sacrifices (Rom. 12:1-2) and our hearts filled with “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father” (Eph. 5:19-20).

Difference Between Man and Animal, Biblically.

Distinguish between Man and Animal/Beast:

1) On the sixth day, Adam was created “in the image of God” and quite apart from the land animals through a clearly distinguished separate act of creation. The Hebrew word bara (create) is used three times in Genesis 1:27 to emphasize this act of creation.

2) Only man received the breath of God. In this way, he was given a spirit (Eccles. 12:7; 1 Thess. 5:23) so that he transcends the world of the animals.

3) Only when Adam was created, did God “use his hands”: “The Lord God formed [Hebrew yatsar] the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life” (Gen. 2:7). In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word yatsar is used to describe the actions of a potter who skillfully and imaginatively forms his vessels. In the same way, God used earthly matter for Adam.

4) Only man can actually communicate with God. Only he possesses the gift of speech and of prayer by means of which he can express all his thoughts before his Creator. Man was created to be near and close to God. He is dependent on communion with God.

5) Only man has a free will and possesses the faculty of creative thought. According to Psalm 8:5, man was made “a little lower than the heavenly beings.” Human beings possess gifts such as freely developing personalities, inventiveness, and the capacity for cultural development (writing, music, historical awareness).

6) Even the difference in flesh is mentioned in the Bible: “All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another” (1 Cor. 15:39).

7) It is said only about man that he was not only created “by God,” but also “for Him” (Col. 1:16). This high purpose is only ascribed to man. Animals are also creatures of God, but they did not receive the calling to become children of God (John 1:12).

8) In contrast to the animals, man is an eternal being; this means that his existence never ends, even after the death of the body (Luke16:19–31). An imperishable body will be raised from the perishable one (1 Cor. 15:42).

WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH

Worship in Spirit and Truth: John 4:23-24

Q: What is Worship?

A: Worship is an attitude of the heart. A person can go through the outward motions and not be worshiping (Psalm 51:16-17; Matthew 6:5-6). God sees the heart, and He desires and deserves sincere, heartfelt praise and worship.

Not everything that is called “worship” is actually worship, a lesson learned in the very beginning: both Cain and Abel brought sacrifices to the Lord, but “the Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor” (Genesis 4:4–5). 

What was Cain’s problem besides jealousy, stubbornness, and murderous rage? He lacked a proper theology of worship. Cain brought an unacceptable sacrifice to the Lord and demanded that the Lord be pleased.

Worship, however, comes from a different place within our spirits. Worship should be reserved for God alone (Luke 4:8). Worship is the art of losing self in the adoration of another.

Q: Where God can be worshipped?

A: God may be worshiped anywhere, the place now has no significance (though once it did to some extent). God will be worshiped as the Father. The Samaritans (and by implication other peoples and nations) did not really know what they worshiped. They were not worshiping in accordance with the revelation God had given of Himself, as believing Jews were.

Evolution of Worship:

In Deuteronomy 6:4, Moses sets down for the Israelites how they are to love their God: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”

Our worship of God is directed by our love for Him; as we love, so we worship. Because the idea of “might” in Hebrew indicates totality, Jesus expanded this expression to “mind” and “strength” (Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27). To worship God in spirit and truth necessarily involves loving Him with heart, soul, mind and strength.

IN SPIRIT: 

True worship is in spirit. It must come from within the heart of those born again by Gods spirit. God is Spirit and material things can never truly represent Him. Only in spirit can the One Eternal Spirit be really worshiped (this is one good reason He gave the command in Ex 20:4 and other places). 

1) Spiritual life (filled with Holy Spirit);

2) You can worship whenever/wherever;

3) Everything within you must engaged.

Spirit without truth leads to a shallow, overly emotional experience that could be compared to a high. As soon as the emotion is over, when the adoration cools, the worship ends.

IN TRUTH:

This worship must be in truth. It must be in accordance with the truth God has revealed about Himself and it must be sincere, and real, without hypocrisy. 

God seeks such worshipers. This is because God is love (1 John 4:8). He loves people and seeks their love. He desires their highest good and this can only come when they become true worshipers of the true God. God sees enough empty formal worship in the world and He desires something much better.

1) True Hearts (knowing the truth);

2) Word of Truth/Gospel of salvation;

3) In Christ.

Truth without spirit can result in a dry, passionless encounter that can easily lead to a form of joyless legalistic activity.

• The best combination of both aspects of worship results in a joyous appreciation of God informed by Scripture. 

• The more we know about God, the more we appreciate Him. The more we appreciate, the deeper our worship. The deeper our worship, the more God is glorified.

HOW TO KNOW GOD'S WILL/PLAN?

Q: How do we can know what is God's will/plan towards our life?

A: Let's assume that God's will is about 100 marks, God has already revealed and prepared his will about 70%. 

But how do we receive it?

God's plan which can be categorised into two stages.

1st one which is about 70% that God already revealed.

2nd one which is remaining 30%.

If you complete 1st stage then only you can enter into 2nd stage.

1st stage: UNIVERSAL

2nd stage: PERSONAL

1st stage: UNIVERSAL: In this, God already revealed his plan of action which we ought to do. This 1st stage is for all believers, that's why it is named as "Universal".

i.e., Following His Commandments;

Prayer;

Bible Reading; etc.,

As already mentioned above, if you complete 1st stage properly then only you can enter into 2nd stage.

You'll get a question that, how can we know that we have completed 1st stage?

Simple, 

(i) Through living in Christ;

(ii) Obedient towards what you have learnt so far;

(iii) Zeal to get know about (God's will);

(iv) Be genuine in sight of the Lord;

(v) Be faithful.

Then only God will reveal His plan towards us.

2nd stage: PERSONAL: In this stage it is related personal and that too is only for you. God will reveal what plan He has towards you. 

2nd stage mainly targets on 

A: (i) Talents (this is which you have by birth);

    (ii) Gifts (this is which you'll get after baptism through Holy Spirit: gift of preaching, gift of healing, etc.,);

B: (iii) Vocation/Work;

     (iv) Location/Which place to work or do ministry or live  in;

     (v) Combination/Life partner.

God will reveal His plan in Personal stage, because it is completely related to you personally.

Through Seven ways God will reveal His plan to us.

They are:

1) Word of God: While reading the word of God, God will reveal His plan by striking a word which is revealing to our thoughts.

2) Self-Consciousness: When you want to do anything,  thinking that this maybe of God's plan, if it silence in your inner then it maybe God's plan or else there will be confusion and storm like feeling in your inner.

3) Situations: If it is God's plan, then God opens all the doors or else if not, then you will face critical troubles which makes you fail again and again.

4) Persons: By means of other people, a believer must who might be in elderly aged, through their words, God might reveal His plan.

5) Dreams &

6) Visions: Dream is the one phenomenon which comes when you are asleep. Vision which appears when you are awake.

7) Sign

Note: Even Satan can play his technique using this same seven ways. Kindly be aware.

When God reveals His plan to you, He will definitely confirm it by seeing your zeal for fulfilling God's plan.

There are 3 stages where you can see yourself traveling for....

                     God's plan

                            ⬇️

                 Communication 

(here, God communicate with you about His plan)

                           ⬇️

             Confused/Comfort

(here, you find yourself in confusion, ask everytime to God, whether this is His plan or not)

                           ⬇️

                  Confirmation

(here, by seeing your effort and zeal towards His plan, God confirms it with you)

Quote: "IF YOU ARE ABLE TO FULFILL WHAT IS ALREADY REVEALED, THEN GOD WILL REVEAL WHAT YOU HAVE TO FULFILL."

HEAVENLY FIVE CROWNS 👑

HEAVENLY FIVE CROWNS 👑

Crown: The Greek word "STEPHANOS" used here does not mean the sort of crown kings wear. It means a wreath made of leaves which was given to the winners in athletic contests/race in those days.

Do we wish to win the rewards/crown God gives for faithful service?

There is only one way, the way Paul took. It is the way of self-denial and discipline for the sake of the gospel.

What kind of race is this? Is service for Christ then, like  a race?

In some respects, YES. And not everyone who runs gets a prize. The Paul speaks here the prize is not salvation, but the prize is some reward for Service to Christ.

Service to Christ:

The cross is a symbol of death. It was the Roman means of execution. Figuratively, to take up one’s cross means to willingly go forward to the place of death to self and its desires, aims, and plans. 

It means a mind to undergo whatever is painful or humiliating or mortifying to follow Christ. It is an attitude toward Christ and one’s self which is the basis of the true Christian life.

The believer is told to maintain this attitude daily. To try to carry one’s cross without following Jesus is a hard and bitter thing. And renunciation of desire and the world, austerities, penance, etc, come to nothing good if we do not follow Him. 

But to carry our cross and follow Jesus because we trust and love Him is freedom and joy, for those who do so will find that Jesus is with them all the way.

1. 👑 Imperishable/Incorruptible Crown: (1 Cor. 9:25):

This crown would be the first level a believer would attain to. This crown indicates mastery over the sin nature. The Christians are being urged to run the life in such a way as to receive the reward in the end.

Quote: "Only those who run the race and run it according to the rules will get a prize."

2. 👑 Crown of Joy/Rejoicing: (1 Thess.2:19):

This crown is for those who lead others to Christ or demonstrate fruitfulness by influencing others towards righteousness.

Quote: "Rewards are not just for how we live and what we do, they are also for the influence we have on how others live and what they do".

3. 👑 Crown of Righteousness: (2 Tim. 4:8):

This crown goes to those who live righteously in this world while they look forward to Christ’s return. They are those who are not captivated by this world, but hunger and thirst after righteousness.

Quote: "This is a crown for righteous behavior and an upright life".

4. 👑 Crown of Glory: (1 Pet. 5:4):

The greatest achievement is to fulfill your calling and finish the work God gave you to do. The scripture reference is speaking to pastors who finish their work faithfully, but this crown is not only for pastors. It is for anyone who finds and fulfills their assignment God has given them.

Quote: "Earthly crowns or stephanos wee made of vines, etc. This crown is made out of Glory!"

5. 👑 Crown of Life: (Rev. 2:10):

This crown is for those who proceed in God’s plan in their life while enduring trials. The believer who moves forward in God’s call and assignment in the face of difficulty, even martyrdom, will receive this crown.

Quote: "We are faithful to the Lord in the trial. The Lord is faithful to reward us for enduring the trial".