Another Failed Rapture

 This past week was a very interesting one.

A new prediction from a South African pastor claiming the rapture will happen on Tuesday, Sept. 23, went viral on social media, prompting fear, worry and conversations on TikTok.

.

In a video shared on YouTube, Joshua Mhlakela claimed the second coming of Jesus would happen on either Sept. 23 or Sept. 24 based on revelations he received from Jesus.

"The rapture is upon us," Pastor Joshua Mhlakela said Sept. 9 on the YouTube channel Centtwinz TV. "Whether you are ready or you are not ready, the Rapture in 14 days from now.

Although some people have been quick to buy into the claims, other religious leaders are urging caution or insisting that the rapture is not going to happen, based on their biblical interpretations.

What is the Rapture?

The Christian evangelical concept of the Rapture is based on the teachings of John Darby and Cyrus Scofield, called dispensationalism. It teaches that at the end times, believers, both alive and resurrected from the dead, will bodily ascend into heaven to gather with Jesus during His Second Coming. There are different beliefs about the timing, whether or not the Rapture precedes a time of tribulations for the unsaved humans left on the Earth, and whether it leads to the prophesied thousand-year reign of Jesus after his return.

As many people pointed out, one of the definite things the Bible says about the end times is that no one knows when it will happen except God (Matthew 24:36). However, Mhlakela was firm in his prediction.

“I saw Jesus sitting on his throne, and I could hear him very loud and clear saying, ‘I am coming soon'," he said. “He said to me on the 23rd and 24th of September 2025, ‘I will come back to the Earth.’”

Here is something to think about. He may not have been wrong in his dream. I will give him the benefit of the doubt.  He may have interpreted the dream wrong. Let me explain.

As many people pointed out, one of the definite things the Bible says about the end times is that no one knows when it will happen except God (Matthew 24:36). However, Mhlakela was firm in his prediction.

“I saw Jesus sitting on his throne, and I could hear him very loud and clear saying, ‘I am coming soon'," he said. “He said to me on the 23rd and 24th of September 2025, ‘I will come back to the Earth.’”

Today many Christians are unaware of the ancient use of “no man knows the day or the hour,” that originated as a title for the Feast of Trumpets. The cultural and linguistic context of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:36 (and parallels in Mark 13:32) gives this statement a layer of meaning rooted in the Jewish calendar and its prophetic significance.

“No Man Knows the Day or the Hour” as a Feast of Trumpets Idiom

In First Century Judaism, the Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah) was unique among the seven Feasts of the LORD (Leviticus 23). Unlike the other feasts, which were tied to clear calendar dates (Passover on Nisan 14, Day of Atonement on Tishrei 10, etc.), the Feast of Trumpets began at the sighting of the new moon in Tishrei (the seventh month).

Since the appearance of the new moon could not be calculated precisely (due to possible cloud cover or other atmospheric factors), the exact “day or hour” could not be known in advance. The Sanhedrin required two reliable witnesses to observe and testify of the new moon’s sighting before the feast could officially begin. Thus, the Feast was sometimes colloquially referred to by Rabbis and scholars as “the feast where no man knows the day or the hour.”

Documentation from Rabbinic Sources:

Talmud Bavli, Rosh Hashanah 25a describes the process of two witnesses reporting to the Sanhedrin to confirm the new moon sighting. The Mishnah, Rosh Hashanah 2:7 records that if the moon was not seen, the festival was delayed a day.

Because of this uncertainty, Yom Teruah was celebrated over two days (Yom Arichta — “one long day”), though it was considered a single day extended into two, to accommodate for the unknown start. This led to the popular idiomatic expression that no one could know the exact day or hour of its commencement.

Jesus’ Use of the Phrase in Matthew 24:36

When Jesus said: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” (Matthew 24:36)

He was not merely stating that the timing of His coming is unknowable, but invoking a well-known Jewish idiom referring to the Feast of Trumpets. His Jewish audience would have understood this layered meaning, much as they understood other Messianic idioms like “the Bridegroom coming for His Bride.”

Rosh Hashanah, also known as the Feast of Trumpets, is the first of the fall feasts of Israel. Mentioned in Leviticus 23, the Biblical name is Yom Teruah—a Hebrew word that literally means day of blasting or shouting.

Rosh Hashanah, as it most often is called today, came later out of the period of Babylonian exile and eventually became known as the celebration of the new Hebrew year. It’s often referred to as the spiritual new year as it begins in the seventh month on the Hebrew calendar, called Tishrei.

While the biblical details on how to celebrate it are sparse, it's directly connected to what became known as the 10 days of Awe leading up to the Day of Atonement or Yom Kippur.

This feast was a time of repentance and introspection where the individuals search their hearts an ask God to forgive them. This is in preparation for the Feast of Atonement which follows in ten days.

As we hear the sound of the shofar, we recognize the Kingship of God.  It will be a day where they recognize afresh that Messiah Yeshua is King of their lives, and will acknowledge His rightful place on the throne.

It’s also a call to wake up from spiritual slumber. To remember the Creator. To repent and return to the One who loves them. To rekindle the flame within their hearts.

Finally, it's a time to remember all of the moments that God has come through for His people.

Here is some theology according to Truitt.

I believe the Lord is coming soon. I also believe the Feast of Trumpets is when all of Israel will hear the call and acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah. When? I don't know.

Paul told the Christians, 1 Thes. 5: 1-8 1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

(The Feast beings at the sight of the New Moon)

3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.

The Feast of Trumpets was sound to awaken from slumber. The feast started at the sight of the new moon. This was at a time and day based on the observation of the moon. No one knew when this would happen.

Zechariah 12:10

10 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.

The classic text (Romans 11:16–24) depicts Israel as distinct from the Church: the “natural branches” are the Jews, and the “wild branches” are the Gentiles. The “olive tree” is the collective people of God. The “natural branches” (Jews) are “cut off” the tree for unbelief, and the “wild branches” (believing Gentiles) are grafted in. This has the effect of making the Jews “jealous” and then drawing them to faith in Christ, so they might be “grafted in” again and receive their promised inheritance. The “natural branches” are still distinct from the “wild branches,” so that God’s covenant with His people is literally fulfilled. Romans 11:26–29, citing Isaiah 59:20–21; 27:9; Jeremiah 31:33–34, says:

“And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob. And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.’ As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

Here, Paul emphasizes the “irrevocable” nature of Israel’s calling as a nation (see also Romans 11:12). Isaiah predicted that a “remnant” of Israel would one day “be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD” (Isaiah 62:12). Regardless of Israel’s current state of unbelief, a future remnant will in fact repent and fulfill their calling to establish righteousness by faith (Romans 10:1–8; 11:5). This conversion will coincide with the fulfillment of Moses’ prediction of Israel’s permanent restoration to the land (Deuteronomy 30:1–10).

When Paul says Israel will be “saved” in Romans 11:26, he refers to their deliverance from sin (verse 27) as they accept the Savior, their Messiah, in the end times. Moses said, “The Lord your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live” (Deuteronomy 30:6). 

So how will “all Israel be saved”? The details of this deliverance are filled out in passages such as Zechariah 8—14 and Revelation 7—19, which speak of end-times Israel at Christ’s return. The key verse describing the coming to faith of the future remnant of Israel is Zechariah 12:10, “I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.” The faithful remnant of Israel is epitomized in Revelation 7:1–8. These faithful ones the Lord will save and bring back to Jerusalem “in truth and righteousness” (Zechariah 8:7–8).

In the Day of the Lord, (The Feast of Atonement) God will “reclaim the surviving remnant of his people” (Isaiah 11:11). Jesus Christ will return and destroy the armies gathered against Him in rebellion (Revelation 19). Sinners will be judged, and the faithful remnant of Israel will be set apart forever as God’s holy people (Zechariah 13:8—14:21).

Not get into the discussion of the Church and Israel, I will say this both are from the same tree, and both have been called by God and have the same position in Christ.

Help Me Understand

I have tried to understand the thinking of those in the evangelical camp of Christianity who justify killing Christians. This is happening daily in Gaza. There will be some who will dismiss me as being liberal or one who hates the Jews. I am neither. I believe the message of salvation is to whosoever will.

Zionist Christians identify with Israel being right in their actions of genocide against a perceived enemy of God. In the heart of one of the most complex and painful conflicts in modern history, the role of Christian Zionism emerges as a powerful force that shapes perceptions and policies towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This ideology, deeply rooted in a blend of eschatology and colonial aspirations, presents a narrative where Israel's actions are framed as part of a divine plan, often overshadowing the profound human cost involved.

Christian Zionism fosters a worldview that sees Israel not just as a nation but as an embodiment of biblical prophecy. This perspective can dangerously simplify the conflict into binary terms—good versus evil—where any action taken by Israel is deemed necessary and redemptive. Such beliefs provide theological justification for policies that result in immense suffering, particularly for Palestinians who find their reality dismissed or demonized.

In the United States, Christian Zionists form one of the largest religious voting blocs, significantly influencing governmental policy. Their support extends beyond spiritual solidarity to tangible political backing that fuels continued military interventions and financial aid to Israel. This influence underscores how deeply intertwined religion can become with political agendas, often at odds with principles of justice and peace.

The narrative promoted by Christian Zionism often erases Palestinian identity and history, casting them aside in favor of an imagined continuity with "biblical" Israel. This ideological stance not only ignores but perpetuates violence against Palestinians by framing it within a divinely sanctioned mission.

Here is where I have problems understanding Zionist Christians. The Zionist Christians teach that Israel will sign an agreement with the Antichrist. Who is to say that has not already taken place?

The complexities of prophetic scripture and geopolitical dynamics often leave me pondering the depths of human actions, especially when it comes to matters as profound as peace and deception. The notion that Israel might one day enter into a covenant with the Antichrist—an act Christian Zionist teach as foretold in biblical prophecy—poses a paradox that challenges our understanding of faith, politics, and destiny.

U.S. presidents have diligently pursued peace in the Middle East, laying what they hope will be the foundation for lasting harmony. Yet, according to evangelical Zionist beliefs rooted in scripture like Daniel 9:27 and Isaiah 28:14-18, this objective may ultimately lead to a deceptive agreement—a "covenant with death"—that sets the stage for tribulation rather than tranquility.

Isaiah's warnings echo through time, cautioning against false assurances and misplaced trusts. The rulers of Judah are depicted as entering into an ill-fated pact not out of malice but from a desire to avoid impending doom—the overwhelming scourge they fear. However, this very covenant becomes their undoing; instead of offering protection, it brings about their downfall.

From their own teachings, Zionist Christians believe Israel will unite with the Antichrist. Knowing his how can Christians continue to support Israel? Where is the justification for supporting a nation that is already antichrist in spirit. They deny Jesus Christ as the Son of God and persecute those who are call Christian.

When will Zionist Christian understand Israel today is not Biblical Israel and God is not blessing them or those who support them.

So, can some Zionist Christian explain the logic behind supporting a Antichrist nation?

 

Why Are Christians Silent?

 In a world where chaos seems to have become the norm, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the darkness that appears to be spreading. But we must not forget, the time for action is now. Clearly, something fundamental has shifted, and we cannot afford to be complacent. 

I turned 77 years old this year and am amazed at the level of evil being tolerated today. My generation never could have imagined the behavior that now circulates as common. Random killings, wars without reason, leaders in church, government and business who openly lie and are not only tolerated but celebrated—how did this become the new standard?

We find ourselves questioning everything around us: Is it artificial intelligence, hollowing out human purpose? Is it social media, enslaving minds to hate, envy, and endless comparison? Is it the internet, drowning truth under an avalanche of noise? Or is it the endless cycle of vaccinations and pharmaceutical dependencies, numbing a generation that no longer remembers what health, spirit, or faith really is?

My generation did not live under these conditions. We were not raised with vaccines and antidepressants as constant necessities. We were not indoctrinated by phones glowing in our hands since childhood. We were not told that God was an embarrassment or that Christianity must be torn down in the name of “progress.” We were not reared in broken homes and fatherless households by children raising children, where restraint, discipline, and self-control were dismissed as oppression.

Yet amidst this turmoil lies an opportunity for awakening—a chance to reclaim what has been lost. This is a call to remember who we truly are beyond the screens and substances; a call to reconnect with values that transcend fleeting trends; a call to rebuild communities grounded in love rather than fear.

This moment invites us all—not just my generation—to rise above despair and seek solutions rooted in compassion and understanding. Let us foster environments where truth can flourish once again; where spirituality isn't shunned but embraced as part of our collective healing journey.

Together, we can illuminate paths forward through unity rather than division. It is in our togetherness that we find strength, that we can nurture hope instead of succumbing entirely into shadows cast by modernity's relentless march onward without reflection on its impact upon humanity’s soul.

Now more than ever before there exists potential within each one willing enough: To transform this era defined thus far largely through conflict into one characterized ultimately by peace born out from shared wisdom gained along way towards brighter future ahead if only courageously pursued together hand-in-hand across generations united anew under common purpose greater still than any single challenge faced alone today! It is only through our collective efforts that we can overcome the darkness that threatens to engulf us.

In a world where headlines scream tales of senseless violence and acts of cruelty seem to seep into the fabric of everyday life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the darkness. Yet, these challenging times call for introspection and a collective awakening to the power of the Gospel. It is this power that can inspire change, that can replace moral and responsible behavior with irrational acts, and that can lead us towards exposing evil.

Every tragedy we witness is not just a call for despair but an opportunity for action. It is an invitation to rise above apathy and embrace compassion, empathy, and understanding as guiding principles. We must remember that morality has not vanished; it has merely been overshadowed by louder voices that do not speak for the the followers of Jesus Christ.

Let us be inspired by those who choose kindness over cruelty, those who stand up against injustice with courage and conviction. In every community, there are individuals lighting candles in the darkness—teachers nurturing young minds with values of respect, neighbors extending hands in friendship across divides, activists tirelessly advocating for justice for those persecuted by evil governments.

This is our moment to join them in rewriting the narrative. Together, we can restore morality by fostering environments where love triumphs over hate and understanding prevails over ignorance. It begins with small actions—choosing words that heal rather than harm, listening fully before responding in anger, offering help without expecting anything in return.

The future need not be defined by headlines filled with despair; instead, it can be shaped by stories of hope and resilience. As we navigate this complex world together, let us commit to being bearers of Light amidst shadows—a force so powerful that even the darkest corners cannot withstand its glow.

In this shared journey toward redemption lies our greatest strength: unity fueled by unwavering belief in in the message of the Gospel. Let us move forward inspired by possibility rather than paralyzed by fear—knowing that the Gospel can transform the life of those controlled by evil. The Gospel is not just a message, but a powerful force that can bring about the redemption and transformation we so desperately need in these dark times.

Zionist or Christian?

 In these times of significant change and uncertainty, we find ourselves at a crossroads where faith and conviction are tested like never before. One of the profound warnings Jesus gave concerning the end times was not to be deceived. This message resonates deeply today, especially for those who support Zionism without fully understanding its implications on their Christian faith.

I am not a hater of Jews, but I am not a supporter of Israel. However, I do not believe a faithful follower of the teachings of  Jesus can support a nation that is antichrist. The ideology of Zionism is anti-Christian in action and purpose. Zionists have no issues with killing Christians or destroying Christian churches, as seen in Gaza.

The end time warning given by Jesus himself, urging us to remain vigilant and not be led astray. This call resonates today with a powerful relevance, as many grapple with complex geopolitical landscapes that challenge their beliefs.

To my friends who support Zionism, it's crucial to pause and reflect on whether this path aligns with our Christian values or if it veers into territory warned against by Christ. Evangelicals stand at a crossroads: they can either align themselves with an awakening populace recognizing the imperialist agendas orchestrated by global powers in London and Washington, D.C., or risk contradicting their faith by supporting actions that harm fellow Christians.

Zionism, at its core, diverges from Christian theology. It is rooted in unbelief and self-reliance rather than trust in God—a stark contrast to the essence of our faith. As Christians who cherish our nation, we must question whether supporting Zionism truly serves American interests or undermines them by aligning with ideals contrary to both patriotism and Christianity.

Moreover, embracing Zionism often leads to denying the presence of Christian brothers in the Holy Land—those who carry forward the legacy of early believers—and supports actions that erase their heritage and sacred sites. To champion Zionism is to place trust in worldly elites over divine guidance and Christian morality.

We are reminded that no one can serve two masters; we must choose whom we follow with clarity and conviction. Let us seek wisdom through prayerful reflection, ensuring our paths align with God's will rather than being swayed by deceptive narratives that conflict with our most deeply held values.

To embrace Zionism is to place trust not in divine guidance but in worldly powers promoting an agenda detached from biblical morality. Remember, as Jesus taught us: no man can serve two masters. Let this be a time for reflection, courageously choosing faith over deception, standing firm in truth and love for all God's children across nations.

Called By God: A Quaker View of The Ministry

This is based on Robert Barclay's Apology THE TENTH PROPOSITION Concerning the Ministry

Ministry is a calling that resonates deeply within the hearts of those touched by the divine Light. It is not merely a profession or a path chosen lightly; it is an ordained journey guided by the gift of God and revealed through spiritual knowledge. This sacred gift empowers every faithful minister of the Gospel, preparing them to spread love and truth wherever they are led.

The strength and power of this divine Light guide ministers in their work, illuminating the path they must take. It directs them to places where their presence is needed most, to people whose hearts are ready to receive, and at times when their message will resonate most profoundly. In this way, evangelists and Christian pastors are not just followers but leaders who inspire change and growth through their labor in the Gospel.

Faithful ministry does not require human commission or scholarly accolades; it demands authenticity born from divine authority. Those who lack this spiritual gift may possess worldly knowledge or credentials but fall short of being faithful ministers if they do not carry this inner Light. Conversely, those blessed with this pure gift should share it freely—without expectation of earthly reward—as an act of love and service.

For those called away from traditional livelihoods by God's voice, receiving support for their basic needs, such as food and clothing, becomes an integral part of their journey. Yet even in accepting such gifts, it remains essential that these offerings come freely from grateful hearts that their ministry has touched.

In embracing this sacred calling with open hearts and unwavering faith, ministers become vessels for spreading hope and enlightenment—a testament to what can be achieved when one walks hand in hand with divine purpose.

The journey of ministry is a profound calling, one that invites individuals into a faith, purpose, and community. As we delve into the essence of ministry within the Church of God, we find ourselves exploring a realm where individual faith converges with collective fellowship. This sacred union forms what Scripture beautifully names the Body of Christ—a living entity composed of diverse members, each contributing uniquely to the vitality and growth of the whole.

In this spiritual body, diversity is not just present; it is celebrated. Just as in a natural body, where various parts work harmoniously to sustain life, so too does this mystical body thrive through its varied gifts and callings. Apostles, pastors, evangelists, and ministers—all play distinct roles yet share a common goal: to nurture and uplift the community they serve.

To be called to ministry within this framework is both an honor and a responsibility. It requires not only qualifications that align with spiritual maturity but also a heart attuned to service and humility. Those who step into these roles are tasked with embodying grace in their actions and words, fostering unity amidst diversity.

Before we explore these distinct offices further, let us pause to appreciate the Church's foundation—a sanctuary where believers gather as one family under God's love. It is here that ministers find their purpose magnified; it is here they are reminded that their work contributes to something far greater than themselves—a testament to faith alive in every heart they touch.

As we proceed to discuss specific roles within this divine fellowship, may we be inspired by the profound connection between individual devotion and communal strength—an eternal dance orchestrated by grace itself.

Ministry is a profound calling, a journey of faith and service that transcends the boundaries of dogma and doctrine. It beckons us to embrace the essence of the Church, not as mere edifices or institutions but as vibrant assemblies where souls unite in pursuit of divine truth.

The Church, in its most valid form, is an assembly—a gathering called out from the shadows of worldly pursuits into the radiant Light and life offered by God.

This sacred congregation includes all who have been genuinely called and gathered by God—those who walk among us on earth and those who have ascended to heavenly realms. Together, they constitute the One Catholic Church, a universal body that transcends geographical and cultural divides. This Church is not confined to those who outwardly profess Christianity; rather, it encompasses all who heed the holy Light within their hearts, transforming their lives through its sanctifying power.

In this global community of faith, salvation unfolds—not through rigid adherence to doctrines or traditions—but through obedience to divine illumination within. It is this universal Spirit that calls individuals from every corner of our world, uniting them in spiritual kinship with patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

As ministers within this vast community of believers—from diverse backgrounds, including Heathens, Muslims, and Jews—our mission is clear: to nurture integrity and simplicity in our hearts. We are conduits for conveying Christ's secret life and virtue into distant hearts just as blood sustains every part of a living body.

Let us then be inspired by such an expansive vision for ministry—a vision where barriers dissolve under the unifying power of love—and commit ourselves anew each day to fostering communities firmly grounded in the Light's eternal promise.

The concept of ministry within the Church is a profound testament to the enduring power of faith and community. At its core, the Church represents a gathering of individuals united by the Spirit of God, sharing a common belief in the foundational principles and doctrines of Christianity. This unity is not merely an assembly but a collective journey where hearts are bound by love and minds are enlightened by shared truths.

In this sacred fellowship, believers gather to worship, seek divine guidance, and stand as a beacon of truth amidst a world often clouded by error. They are called not only to nourish their spirits but also to support one another—teaching, instructing, and caring for each member as part of one spiritual family. This dynamic interplay mirrors the early churches established by the apostles—communities that thrived on mutual encouragement and steadfast dedication.

The visibility of such vibrant communities has faced challenges over centuries due to periods of apostasy. Yet, even through these interruptions, there remains an inspiring call for believers today: to rekindle this spirit-filled ministry that transforms individual lives into a harmonious household dedicated to living out God's truth. Let us be inspired by this vision—to watch over one another with compassion and strength as we build our testimonies within our modern world.

In the journey of faith, becoming a faithful member of the Church is a profound transformation that begins within oneself. It is not merely about outward rituals or declarations but about an inward calling —a divine light igniting in the heart. This calling beckons us to leave behind unrighteousness and embrace righteousness, allowing us to be grafted into Christ through his Word and Spirit. It's a spiritual awakening that transcends mere knowledge of religious history; it is about being reshaped by God's grace.

To be part of Christ's Church means embracing this inner sanctification wholeheartedly. Yet, it also calls for an outward profession—a declaration of belief in Jesus Christ and adherence to the holy truths conveyed through Scripture. The Scriptures serve as a mirror, reflecting the Spirit's testimony within our hearts, affirming our faith just as one face reflects another in a mirror.

Holiness and turning away from sin are essential for anyone wishing to belong to Christ's universal Church. While an outward expression of faith may not be necessary for membership in the broader Church where opportunities are limited, it becomes crucial wherever God provides such chances. When we encounter this outer testimony—when it is presented and revealed—it must be embraced with conviction.

This dual journey—of inward transformation and outward proclamation—illustrates that valid membership in Christ's Church involves both heart and voice united in faithful witness. As we navigate this path with humility and courage, let us remember that every step toward holiness draws us closer to embodying the Spirit of love and truth that defines our sacred community.

What Happened To The Faithful Ministry?

In the grand narrative of history, the ministry has always stood as a beacon of hope and transformation. Despite the complexities and challenges that have arisen through time, there remains an undeniable truth: the essence of true ministry is rooted in genuine faith and authentic living. The journey of ministry is not about outward ceremonies or hollow professions. Instead, it is about embodying the virtues that Christ exemplified—love, humility, compassion, and integrity.

But contrary to this divine calling, there has been a persistent force—the "mystery of iniquity"—that seeks to distort these values. This adversary teaches that mere outward appearances can substitute for true membership in the Church of Christ. It suggests that words without actions suffice for holiness, but this could not be further from the truth. True ministry calls us to put aside such superficiality and embrace a life where God's Light shines through our deeds.

Throughout history, even as early churches began to grapple with internal decay and worldly influences crept into their midst, God preserved a remnant whose lives bore witness to His love and power. These faithful souls stood firm against persecution with unwavering zeal—a testament to their profound connection with God.

However, as Christianity gained acceptance among earthly rulers and became intertwined with societal status rather than spiritual renewal, its transformative power waned. Yet even amidst this decline into mere formality—a shadow devoid of substance—the call for genuine ministry remains ever-present.

Today, we are invited anew to rise above these shadows; we are called back to authenticity where our lives reflect God's grace daily—not just on Sundays or within church walls but everywhere we go. Let us rekindle those lost virtues: meekness over pride, love over indifference, service over self-interest—living testimonies that inspire others toward real change.

The path forward invites us all into deeper communion with God—a return from darkness into His marvelous Light—and through such revival, may we rebuild what was lost so long ago: vibrant communities united under Christ's banner who shine brightly amid an often dim world!

The ministry, as a beacon of spiritual guidance and growth, holds a profound responsibility in shaping the hearts and minds of its followers. Yet, it is deeply concerning when errors infiltrate this sacred institution, particularly those retained from past doctrines that hinder the true essence of Christianity. These errors can obstruct the life-giving power of faith, leaving communities in a state of spiritual barrenness and dryness.

History has shown us that when the ministry deviates from its true purpose, it can lead to widespread spiritual decay. As Scripture warns us with the adage "Like people, like priest," we see how easily a corrupt ministry can mislead its congregation into paths of death and iniquity rather than life and righteousness. The prophets lamented over such misguided leadership among the Jewish congregations, attributing their backslidings to leaders who caused them to err.

In our current era, under the New Testament's guidance, we are repeatedly cautioned against false prophets and teachers who may lead us astray. It is imperative for us to reflect on these warnings and examine where our ministries might have diverged from their foundational truths. When every aspect—from foundation to discipline—is misaligned with the principles of the primitive Church, there is a risk that a carnal ministry will replace what should be profoundly spiritual.

Let this reflection inspire us to strive for purity in our ministries—where life is ministered instead of death, where righteousness triumphs over iniquity, where leaders are true shepherds guiding their flocks toward divine truth and grace. By aligning ourselves with these ideals, we open doors to revitalizing not only our ministries but also invigorating our communities with renewed faith and hope.