Anxiety/Depression and Christianity

Recently, I read a heartfelt post from a pastor sharing his personal journey with depression and anxiety. I deeply appreciate his honesty and the encouragement he offers to others who may be struggling. It’s true — even pastors, leaders, and mature believers can experience emotional lows, because we are all still living in this weak, sin-cursed flesh.

The Bible itself shows us examples of God’s servants who reached points of deep discouragement: Elijah (1 Kings 19:4), Moses (Numbers 11:14–15), and David (Psalm 42:3–5). Scripture tells us to “encourage one another” (Hebrews 3:13), “build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and “love one another” as Christ has loved us (John 13:34).

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Where I Felt the Need to Clarify

One part of the post gave me pause. The pastor quoted Matthew 26:38, where Jesus said, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.” He placed this alongside the struggles of Elijah, David, and Jeremiah. I believe his intention was to show that even our Savior faced intense emotional pain — and that is true. Jesus did feel real sorrow, grief, and anguish.

However, I think it’s important to distinguish between sorrow/grief and depression/anxiety as they are commonly understood today.

• Sorrow and grief can be righteous responses to loss, sin, or suffering.

• Depression and anxiety in their deepest sense often involve hopelessness, fear of the unknown, or a breakdown of trust — all of which are rooted in the effects of sin.

Jesus is without sin (Hebrews 4:15). He never lost trust in the Father. Even in Gethsemane, where His anguish was so great that His sweat was like drops of blood (Luke 22:44), He prayed, “Yet not my will, but Yours be done.” His sorrow was real, but it was not despair rooted in unbelief.

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Why This Matters for Our Salvation

If depression and anxiety — in the hopeless, unbelieving sense — were present in Christ, He could not be the spotless Lamb of God (1 Peter 1:19).

Our salvation depends on a perfect Savior — the only One able to take the punishment for our sin (Isaiah 53:5–6; 2 Corinthians 5:21). In the Old Testament, God required that sacrificial lambs be without blemish as a picture of the perfect sacrifice to come. That sacrifice is Jesus — the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

If Jesus had sinned or fallen into hopeless unbelief, He could not be “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). But because He remained perfect and fully trusted the Father, He conquered sin, death, and the curse — and He alone is the way to God.

So when we talk about Christ’s sorrow, we must remember: His suffering was real, but it was always joined with complete faith and obedience to the Father.

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A Note to Readers Who May Not Understand

If these things I’m sharing seem hard to understand, it may be because you have not yet truly placed your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. You may have heard of Him, but have you believed Him? Have you trusted Him fully as your Lord and Savior?

I encourage you to take time to read and understand the Good News — what the Bible calls the gospel — because this is the foundation for knowing who Christ is and why He matters in your life.

📖 Read and Share – The Gospel
📖 Have You Ever Heard or Read the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

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When Even the Strongest Feel Weak

The Bible shows us that even God’s most faithful servants have felt moments of hopelessness:

• Elijah – After calling down fire from heaven, he fled in fear and prayed for God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4).

• David – Poured out his despair in the Psalms, yet reminded himself to hope in God (Psalm 42:5).

• Moses – Felt the burden of leadership so heavily that he cried out to God in desperation (Numbers 11:14–15).

These moments remind us that we should never put our ultimate trust in men — not even in spiritual leaders — but in Christ alone.

Jesus Himself said:

“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

When depression or anxiety comes, we as Christians are not called to dwell in it or make it our identity. We are called to run to Him — our refuge, our strength, our anchor in the storm (Hebrews 6:19).

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What the Bible Teaches When Depression or Anxiety Comes

Instead of relying on our own ideas, let’s look directly at God’s Word for guidance:

1. Run to God in prayer – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

2. Fill your mind with truth – “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable… think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

3. Hold on to His promises – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

4. Draw strength from fellowship – “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works… encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24–25)

5. Remember who you are in Christ – “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

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Final Encouragement from Scripture

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” (Psalm 42:11)

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Even in our lowest moments, He remains faithful. Even when we feel like letting go, His hand holds us fast. This is the hope and security we have when we belong to Him.

THE LOAKAN BAPTIST CHURCH HISTORY on her 56th anniversary

Edited from the Original by Roldan Egmin Caroy on Monday, December 10, 2012

. . .” the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore ,

to send out workers into the harvest field.”

(Matt. 9:27)

 

Yes, God is the Lord of the harvest.  By this, we give Him honor and thanksgiving on our 56th anniversary. God has used many people, many workers, many circumstances and opportunities to accomplish His work. He has sent workers into His harvest field in Loakan . . .

 

It was sometime in the late 1940’s and the early 1950’s that the seed of the work was planted through the ministries of the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE).  Missionaries including Rev. Alfred Conant, Rev. Jerome Casner and family, and the Baguio Baptist Church pioneered Bible classes and children’s Sunday school in what is known today as Puroks Ongasan and Mangga in Loakan Proper.

 

A small group of believers were organized and started to hold regular meetings and Bible classes, first in homes like those of the Cuilan and the Pedro Palispis families.  Later, worship services were held in a makeshift chapel made from donated materials including galvanized iron roofing by the late Mr. and Mrs. Hopewell.

 

The beginnings of the Loakan Baptist Church experienced its share of difficulties and persecutions.  Many of the local people whose paganistic traditions and practices were ingrained in daily living and family life did not readily accept the Word of God. The early believers could remember how their pews would be hang on trees by those unsympathetic to the faith. Also, for a period of about five years after the Conants left, the work seemed to come to a halt.  Inspite of the circumstances, there were those who persevered in the faith.

 

In 1956, Rev. Jerome Casner and Pastor Ansen Valentin started the baptism of new believers.  Formal worship and evening services and the remembrance of the Lord’s supper were started.  Before Rev. Jerome Casner and his family returned to the United States, the believers drafted their church constitution. The group then became known as the LOAKAN BAPTIST CHURCH.

 

By 1958, the makeshift chapel was transferred to a lot located on a hill overlooking the Airport or what is known today as Maryhills. The piece of property was donated by the late Mr. Ngamoy Sacay, an elderly who faithfully attended church. Again, unbelievers scoffed at the small chapel and would call it a “chicken coop” but the believers did not “chicken out” but continued to follow The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

 

In 1970, a wider lot was donated by Mr. Sacay on which the present church building now stands.  Construction started with a little less than P 5,000.00 on hand and with the leadership then of Pastor Felix Bigornia and a few deacons, the church building was put up.

 

Through the years, the expansion of the church building took place on all sides. Sunday School rooms to accommodate a pre-school was built on the eastern side of the church building under the pastorate of Rev. Larry Domingo.  Church members donated and loaned their money to augment the meager amount that was available to finish the project.

 

In 1990, an adjacent 500 sq.m. lot was bought by the church and annexed to the church frontage.  During the same year in July, a killer earthquake hit the City of Baguio and its suburbs.  The church building sustained considerable damage when the southern portion of the building eroded and the wall collapsed. God’s provision was once again made evident through the gifts from His people, friends and members from here and abroad.  Repairs were undertaken not long thereafter.

 

Again in 1998, under the pastorate of Pastor Graciano Saugen, additional Sunday School rooms and a multi-purpose hall were annexed to the western side of the church. This was to accommodate the growth of the pre-school and the Sunday School classes.

 

More important than the growth in property and improvement in physical structure, the Lord added to the number of believers each year.  From a handful of believers, hundreds if not thousands of lives have been touched by the ministry of the Loakan Baptist Church.  The church has brought the gospel not only to the local residents but to the different parts of Baguio and Benguet like Happy Hallow; Antamok Mines; Balatoc Mines; Camp 1; Camp 6; Loacan, Itogon; Daklan; Apalan; Guisset; Beckel; and Gumatdang. Furthermore, extending to the neighboring provinces like Bacnotan and Burgos of La Union; And, Lubo of Kalinga, Apayao. Daughter churches were established like the Happy Hallow Baptist Church; Balatoc Christian Fundamental Baptist Church; Community Fundamental Baptist Church in Loacan, Itogon; Camp 6 Baptist Church; Harvest Baptist Church in Bacnotan, La Union, and The Living Word Fundamental Baptist Church in Apalan-Guisset.

 

Through the years, God in His infinite wisdom, provided workers too many to mention in this piece of written history just so to accomplish His own purpose in the harvest field.

 

At present the church has around 300 members led by Ptr. Ruben Huyo being the Senior Pastor, Ptr. Geru Sardina as the Associate Pastor beginning year 2009 and Ptr. Lemuel Pay-an, who was recently designated as the Youth Pastor. The church has also absorbed and commissioned Ptr. Hubert Caroy as a Missionary Pastor last year 2011, since he has started mission work in places that of Apalan, Guisset, Cubabeng, Beckel and Gumatdang. His family also have been instrumental in supporting and assisting him, as he continues to evangelize and share the gospel of Christ to places who needs to hear the Hope that is in Christ Jesus. The church has been also given the burden to help in Vigan and commissioned Ptr. Nero and Penny Misajon year 2011 under the supervision of Ptr. Huyo.

 

This year, Ptr. Lowell Achedera was then also called to be the Pastor in Daklan, continuing to reach the lost souls and edify believers in the locality. The church has then decided as well to hand-over the work of the Lord in Burgos, La Union to our fellow Bible Baptist believers who are near the vicinity as it profits nothing competing with other Christian groups; Therefore, focusing more to God’s leading toward open doors of opportunity in sharing the Word of God and the Gospel to other unreached places. It has also been a great mileage and celebration as the Christian Education Center has reached it’s 30th Foundation Anniversary this year.   

 

The church continues on as the Living Body of Christ in the locality of Loakan through the given regular church services, prayer meetings, home and school bible classes, Sunday school, home visitations, the church arms – AWANA, AFC, Young Adults Group, Ladies Fellowship and Men’s Fellowship, music ministries, the Christian Education Center, Parents’ Bible classes and counseling sessions.  All  the activities are aimed to proclaim the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to them who are lost and edify or build the believers into becoming like Christ. 

 

The church also sends and supports local and foreign missionaries; Continues to support Bible School students, currently to name Mr. Roujay Balagot and Ms. Sharon Sison; And, even support volunteers who desire to be used in the ministry, currently to name Ms. Jochebed Caroy undergoing training in “Goducate.”  

 

Through some 56 years, God has amazingly and tremendously blessed the Loakan Baptist Church!  Truly the Lord of the harvest is faithful and worthy of our praise and thanksgiving!

 

Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your Name be  glory, because of your love and faithfulness.

May the Lord make you increase, both you and your children.

May you be blessed by the Lord, The Maker of heaven and earth.

The highest heavens belong to the Lord, But the earth he has given to man.

It is not the dead who praise the Lord, Those who go down in silence;

It is we who extol the Lord, Both now and forevermore.

Praise the Lord.

(Psalm 115 :1, 14-18)

WHERE WERE THE THOUSANDS OF FOLLOWERS?

"In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120)..." (Acts 1:15, ESV)

When Jesus walked and roamed the earth living His 33 and a half years or even taking His three years of ministry, it is recorded in the Bible that THOUSANDS followed Him... like when Jesus fed the 5000 or 4000 which was two different events recorded in the Bible... Wherever He went, THOUSANDS FOLLOWED... But the question was "WHERE WERE THEY, after His death, resurrection on the Third day, giving His last instructions and commands for forty days after His resurrection and after His ascension?" Perhaps the good question to ask is, "Were these THOUSANDS truly following after Jesus Christ or was it something else?" If you would think it honestly and carefully the answer, your answer should be the same as what Jesus Himself also declared before these thousands, and yet most of them still NEVER understood...

"Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For ON HIM God the Father has set his seal.” (John 6:26-27, ESV)

What a pity people are, seeking only those that are temporary and not that which is eternal. People easily are caught up with miracles and wonders. And yet from these THOUSANDS that saw Jesus do marvelous things, "How many were faithful to truly follow Jesus Christ whom God the Father has set His seal?" Acts 1:15 says only a HUNDRED TWENTY (120) were left faithful even after seeing their Master crucified and died. 

(2 Kings 18:1-4) "In the third year of Hoshea son of Elah, king of Israel, Hezekiah the son of Ahaz, king of Judah, began to reign. He was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Abi the daughter of Zechariah. And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done. HE REMOVED THE HIGH PLACES AND BROKE THE PILLARS AND CUT DOWN THE ASHERAH. AND HE BROKE IN PIECES THE BRONZE SERPENT THAT MOSES HAD MADE, FOR UNTIL THOSE DAYS THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL HAD MADE OFFERINGS TO IT (IT WAS CALLED NEHUSHTAN).

Do "CHRISTIANS" truly understand what Hoshea had done? And yet until now, professing Christians still does the error of Israel and continue to build what God has always so angry and go against and a reason why Hoshea was declared to be "he did what was RIGHT in the eyes of the Lord." 

God has always been so clear from the beginning and yet people are stiff-necked to think that "Hey, it's our belief and faith on God, NO ONE has the right to choose what is right for us!" or "This is what we believe which is right, therefore, don't judge or tell us to be wrong!".. This what we call today as "Post Modern Thinking".. The thinking that this is the modern era now and those old things are not right anymore. A reason to think that the Bible is outdated and has no life or power or authority at all. The thing is, the Bible stands on Its own and can defend itself as it has always declared to be God's instruction for "Doctrine" = God's Teaching / Principles, for "Reproof" = say what is wrong, for "Correction" = say what is the right ", and for "Instruction for righteousness" = to continue to instruct what is right in order for not to fall to sin in the future. (II Timothy 3:16-17)

While these people hardly listen, still Jesus calls for repentance (turn back against sin and follow after Christ) and remission of sins goes on with a hope that many would truly repent. For there WILL be a time when He shall judge all men. And the most pitiful people to experience is what Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23:

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

"I NEVER KNEW YOU! DEPART FROM ME, YE THAT WORK INIQUITY."

When the time comes to face Jesus Christ, the Lord, Master, and the Judge... will He truly welcome us or will say, this dreadful words? Remember, yes! God is Love... BUT He also is Justice! as He is The Righteous Judge.  

The Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ

The Gospel or good news of Jesus Christ! This I believe is the reason why the Christian church exists and why Christ Himself established it. But throughout time, so many have tried to destroy the gospel or even to simply distort it. And I believe at some great level, many have successfully done it considering the many denominations or religious sect we now know at this point. Nevertheless, I believe God has also been faithful to preserve it even through the few people He has chosen and continue to use in declaring this good news! Time and time again, His Word shall never pass away (Matthew 24:35).

I honestly would say, I would want to be part of this means of declaring the gospel of Christ to all men and women. I know it's not easy for even the scripture or the Bible have already declared it's not an easy road nor a bed of roses. Jesus Himself declared Christians will suffer as He Himself has suffered (John 15:20). But I also understand it is by far much, much better to suffer with Christ rather than to suffer without Him for eternity. The apostles of Christ knew this that even for the cost of their lives, they still preached the gospel of Christ.

Now the question, "How do I share the good news of Christ in its most simplest way or form?" I couldn't think of any other way but to still go back and give bible verses as references of how Jesus Christ's life and death is a good news. Anyway, the Bible is the only Authority I believe as the means of giving clear understanding of the gospel of Christ.

The gospel of Jesus Christ, I believe, is as simple as "Who Jesus Christ is" and "what He has done?" But that's just the news, the good news. And for this news to have an effect, people has to hear it and understand it. And, IF they understood and they believed with full trust on the gospel of Christ, then surely the mission has been fulfilled. Thing is, that's the power and work of the Holy Spirit - illumination of the mind to give understanding and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Us, Christians? our work is to simply share and tell. So, here's my one way of telling the gospel:

First off, every good news should have first a bad news. And the bad news is "man is condemned to hell for eternity." Why? Because of Adam's sin. The Scripture says:

Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man [Adam], and death through sin, so death spread to all people [no one being able to stop it or escape its power], because they all sinned. (Romans 5:12)

Remember in God's creation, everything was good and perfect. But when sin came, through Adam's direct disobedience of God's simple one rule, destruction and death had its toll. Thing is, God is merciful and loves His masterpiece. He created man in His own image and likeness! Man is His masterpiece and He can't lay it to waste, even if man was worth as a garbage. Therefore, He set forth a plan to redeem His creation and masterpiece. That is God's love at the same time Him being just or justice.

God's plan was Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, the unblemished Lamb of God to be offered as sin offering for the remission of sin. Scripture says:

In fact under the Law almost everything is cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness [neither release from sin and its guilt, nor cancellation of the merited punishment]. (Hebrews 9:22)

And in accordance with this will [of God] we [who believe in the message of salvation] have been sanctified [that is, set apart as holy for God and His purposes] through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) once for all. Every priest stands [at his altar of service] ministering daily, offering the same sacrifices over and over, which are never able to strip away sins [that envelop and cover us]; whereas Christ, having offered the one sacrifice [the all-sufficient sacrifice of Himself] for sins for all time, sat down [signifying the completion of atonement for sin] at the right hand of God [the position of honor], waiting from that time onward until his enemies are made a footstool for His feet. For by the one offering He has perfected forever and completely cleansed those who are being sanctified [bringing each believer to spiritual completion and maturity]. (Hebrews 10:10-14)

This is what God has planned to redeem man unto Himself, but the question is, does man believe it? Or was Jesus' sacrifice effective for ALL MEN or HUMANITY? I don't think so, because the Scripture says:

“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] [a]only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name. (John 1:12)

For you [who are born-again have been reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified and] are all children of God [set apart for His purpose with full rights and privileges] through faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26)

For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Now, from these verses given, Faith in Jesus Christ is a very important matter and factor of how man is redeemed or in other words "saved" from the punishment of sin. It's not what we do but as simple as faith in Jesus Christ. That's the good news and that is the reason why it is "GOOD" news!

But what is so much bothering is, still many do not believe and many doubt. There are many other Bible verses to give and clear out things about the matter which everybody can choose to read and understand. Nevertheless, the real big question to ask personally is "Do you really, really believe in Who Jesus is and What He has done for you and for me?" 

Do you know How Great God's Love is?

When I talk about God, I'm talking about the God of the Bible -- the Christian Bible.

Most often, I think God's love is so easily taken lightly or for granted, even for Christians. Why? or How come? Easy, we have limited minds to comprehend the unlimited, unbounded, incomprehensible and unequally love of the Almighty All-knowing All-present God of the Bible.

Nevertheless, let's consider some of the things revealed to men on the manifestations of God's love (I said some because I'm sure there may be more and these are just the things that have captured my thoughts on God's Love).

First, consider this:

God created the heavens and the earth and it was good. Everything was perfect, except that God created and prohibited the fruit of just one out of the many tree from being eaten and it was clearly stated that once they did eat, man shall surely die. Though even with that one prohibition, would that ruin what God has made to be perfect and good? No. I don't think so. Sometimes men like to see the negative side more than the positive side, nevertheless, it's not man's creation. It's God's and who are we to be the judge? We are nothing but mere creatures of Him who made all things. And we are part of that ALL things.

Next,

Everything was provided and was given for free in that garden of Eden (simple but I think should clearly emphasize how good and loving God is).

But then, man failed and decided to disobey His Creator, His Provider, His Love, His Everything. And still, God exercised His love towards men by not automatically erasing man from existence. Instead, God planned from the very start of man's fall that He will redeem man once again. The verse below foreshadowed or prophesied how God would redeem man:

 “And I will put enmity (open hostility) between you and the woman, and between your seed (offspring) and her [a]Seed; He shall [fatally] bruise your head, and you shall [only] bruise His heel.” (Genesis 3:15 Amplified Bible)  

At first, it may seem gibberish or rubbish, but if one understands and looks at the event of Christ Jesus being crucified, this verse was fulfilled in Mt. Golgotha. "He shall [fatally] bruise your head" means Christ won the victory, while "you shall [only] bruise His heel" means Jesus' suffering was just part of God's plan and literally Jesus' heel was bruised in the cross of Calvary. There are other Bible verses from the Old Testament books which foreshadowed and prophesied the cross of Calvary like in the time of Moses when the Hebrews painted their doors on the sides and on top with blood. But God Himself declaring this from the very start and fulfilling it after almost 4000 years doesn't mean God was late or something but proved He was faithful in fulfilling it according to His word and time.

Now the question remains is "How would God redeem man through Jesus dying on the cross?" Well, let's go back to God's decreed law from the very start which is "If you shall eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, you shall surely die."  (paraphrased from Gen. 2:17). Death is the payment or verdict for the one who would disobey God's command and it cannot be reversed. Romans 6:23a says "For the wages of sin is death..." Now understanding this concept or truth, let me ask this question. "Can a sinner "A" die in behalf of another sinner "B" so that the sinner "B" will be acquitted or justified (meaning declared innocent)?" Of course NO! No one can do that or that is not logical or does not make sense. If the sinner "A" die, it's just "just" or "worthy" for the sinner "A" to die because that's the payment of his sin. You may say that what if sinner "A" never did sin? That would be true or possible but thing is, after Adam's sin, sin was passed to all men. And a very evidence of that is that all men or women will die in the appointed time. Romans 5:12 declares this truth.

Furthermore, little or small sin in our perspective or mind is still sin in God's sight. The best illustration of this is observing the light and darkness. If darkness is sin, even in the least of it or if there is such as we call "small darkness" and God is light: What happens if both comes in contact with each other? darkness fades away. Therefore, no sin done by a sinner can face the Creator of heaven and earth. That is why God's Word says all men are sinners and therefore all men will die. Therefore man is doomed!

Furthermore to clarify, death in reality and in God's perspective actually means to be separated. And an initial effect of death to man when Adam sinned was that man no longer can fellowship with God nor see Him like Adam before sinning. This is what the Bible calls "spiritual death". And of course, the other death we experience is what we call the physical death. We are separated from our love ones or from this reality of life on earth. And the most dreadful and awful death is what the Bible calls the "second death" in Revelations 20:14 which simply means everlasting / eternal death or separation from God forever. And it's not just about separation forever, but everlasting pain and sorrow in the lake of fire along with the devil and demons. (there may be more discussions about this but I would not expand on that portion for this time and let us focus more of the overview of God's love)

What God desires and what it means for God to redeem man is by making man once more to be sinless (no sin), white, pure, clean and like the light so that we can be able to see Him as He is. But again the question to ask is "How?" And that's the reason why Jesus came.

Another reason why God's love is sooooo unfathomable and amazing is that "Jesus, Who came, is also God Himself." Come again? What? Yes, Jesus is God! While some folks wouldn't believe that and use verses to claim their claim. We, Christians too, have verses to claim Jesus is God. Just try to google it and it's there. But let me share my thoughts and not just use a Bible verse (though I have a verse to also relate this thing to). Thing is, compare the love of God becoming man so that He would die for our sins in contrast to an angel or man or created being even if the creature is holy sent by God to die for our sins. Doesn't that distort our view of how God loves us? John 15:13 says in the amplified version "No one has greater love [nor stronger commitment] than to lay down his own life for his friends." Now if you separate Jesus being God from God. Whose love is greater then? And who would you choose to love more? Wouldn't you choose to love the one who gave His life for you? But if "by faith" believing Christ as 100% Man and 100% God, died for you, then wouldn't that mean a very amazing love? And that's just a part of how God's love is sooo great!

Another magnifier of God's love I believe, is that the reality that Jesus was born in a virgin birth. That truth is very important and a treasure! Why? You see, the virgin birth will claim that Jesus Christ was born without sin! That's the reason why the Bible calls Jesus, the Second Adam! Now to understand what virgin birth means I have to say, "just try to google it". Cause it may take more discussion over that. But simple, as it was foretold, being the seed of a woman (Gen. 3:15), this is God's way on how to redeem man. Through the virgin birth, a sinless man is born. Therefore the argument a while ago where the sinner "A" was not really a sinner is fulfilled. And now, Jesus was not simply born, He lived for 33 years. He was actually even tempted by Satan as we all and thing is, HE NEVER SINNED. 1 Peter 2:22 declares this that even with Jesus' mouth no sin was found. Unlike man who sin as fast as our eyes can see.

Now, the biggest part of God's amazing love was that He was crushed, bruised, mocked, spit upon, beaten... every manifestation of condemnation and judgement for a sinner, Jesus received willingly. He never cursed or even retaliated. Instead, He willingly laid down His life even in the point of death. Why? So He could take the punishment of sin that is supposed to be for man. Now that is how God loves us! (John 3:16)

I John 4:19 says "We love Him because He first loved us." Simply states that man cannot unconditionally love God, because God already unconditionally loved us.

Now, here's the catch! Understanding how great God's love for us is not what really matters but how do we respond to that love. Because God's Word is also clear. God is love but He is also just or justice. It is not right to say that because Christ died for man, therefore all man are already clean and righteous and therefore can go to heaven. I don't think that is right and justice. When a man courts a woman so that they would be married, the woman has to say "yes" to the man before they do. If the answer is "no" then there wouldn't be a marriage. The same with God and His decreed law. Christ died because of man's sin so that He may make a "way", the only way for man to be brought back to Himself (John 14:6). How? Faith in Christ! If a person puts his/her faith, his/her trust in Jesus Christ as God's Word declares (John 3:16, Eph. 2:8&9, Rom. 10:9&10). And when we say "faith" it's surrendering everything even our life to Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:1&2). In simple saying, we believe that Jesus is true to what He declares Himself, God, our Lord, our Master, our Savior, etc. etc.. and of course manifested in our life. If we truly believe who Jesus is, then all His teachings and principles, is what we follow and obey. How? When Jesus no longer roams the earth? Read His Word, the Bible. I can discuss further more about these things, and more. But, may we focus on How Great God's love is and may we truly realize it and afterwhich, may we respond positively on God's Love, by believing on Who Jesus is. "Will you receive His gift of Love?"

Is the Good News worth sharing?

For most, good news, I believe and all would agree that it is worth sharing. With all the bad news we hear every now and then, these things place us in a very bad mood or gloomy atmosphere. So a good news would be a great thing to lighten up our day.

But sadly there is one good news people don’t bother or would even take notice today. Even a hint of it might actually put other people feel indifferent, insulted or even attacked by it. Many people would actually think such news, even with a glimpse of it, is not really good news to them. Now, you might ask, is there really such a good news that is not a good news to others? Well, if I would really think over it, I think there are because sometimes it depends on how we perceive what good news really is. But again, I believe there is one good news which is supposed to be good news for all yet is seen as bad news or not so really news for others at all. It is actually rubbish to them. And I would simply reveal it to you who read this, which is the good news of Jesus Christ!

Now, two things can happen after you’ve seen the name. One, of course there is a possibility that you are slightly interested about what I’m talking about. Second, you totally have no interest so you just stop reading this post. If you decide to stop reading, well, I would respect that. Thing is, the good news of Jesus Christ can either be a hoax for all 2000+ years or so… or it is actually true and real good news. BUT, to think of it as hoax for 2000+ years, I would ask, why do you think people still believe on it and to the point that one can lay down his life for it? Now you may think I’m kidding, but hey, just look at history and even for the last 2000 years. Although I must say, there are inconsistencies. I mean, even the Bible declared there are false Christians as called. But if you find a true and genuine Christian, you’ll be sure that they will lay down their life just for you to hear, know and understand the gospel. And that’s one reason why I’m actually writing this. Although I have to also say, because of miscommunications, misconceptions, and misleading images of Christianity, the real and genuine Christianity have lost its true image compared on the early ages of Christianity. The apostles to be exact and many early believers gave their lives just for the sake of the gospel or good news of Christ. If only people will ask “why?” and try to seek out the answers to this, then they will know.

And I for one would try to give my best means of answering that question “why?” And why is it really a good news?

First off, before the good news, I have to make one understand that before the good news, there is a bad news, a reason why the good news has to be made. And this is simple, and I would like to start it with another question which is, “Why is there death?” You see, this is one mystery not even scientist could explain why there is such a thing called death. Scientist can explain or discuss the process of going towards death, but none could explain why? They will just say “It just happens.” This is their dead end. But the Bible actually has a reason or a logical answer if one considers it. And the Bible points it simply toward “sin.” (Romans 3:23 & 6:23). If you will read Rom. 5:12 & 19, here gives a glimpse of how did sin affect man and results to death.

Romans 5:12 (NIV)
"Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned"

Romans 5:19 (NIV)
"For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous."

That’s the bad news and for that bad news to be replaced with the good news. One must know and understand that the good news started when God loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die in the cross as a means of payment or ransom for sinners like me and you so that there would be a way for us to be brought back to Himself. And that friend can happen when one places their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ – meaning, if you believe, trust, and surrender your life to Jesus Christ. Consider these verses which can explain further:

John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Ephesians 2:8-9
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Titus 3:5
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"

Romans 10:9-10
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

Now, again, to many (because even the Bible spoke of this reality of people not really having an interest) these are rubbish and foolish. BUT, to someone who understands and fully comprehends, this is the best good news one could ever receive. And it is also worth sharing to others even if many would reject it. Furthermore, to the one who receives this great news, it is not just a great news, it actually is the greatest hope one could ever hope for in this world, because it exceeds far more than life and death. It is infinite, if one could really start by understanding this good news of Christ Jesus!

Church at Ephesus (Rev. 2:1-7)

                How do I start sharing my thoughts on this? Or what I’ve learned out of it? But in actuality, I think I learned just a few. Most of it would be a reminder and a rebuke! I’ve chosen to write my thoughts on these as a means of mastering / practicing my thoughts on this topic, as I will be sharing this Bible verses to our brethren at The Living Word Baptist Church (TLWBC). 

                It’s a reminder since I still remember before Bro. Roy Sanoy spoke about these things in the early years of the TLWBC. But I hardly can remember what were his points or the lessons or message from it. And that would be a good question to ask the members if they too can remember some of it. It is indeed interesting that most often, we forget what we learn. But nevertheless, I’m sure one of the main goal of every teaching / preaching of God’s Word is a changed life, a life that leads to Christ-likeness. I could still remember the question of manong Roy every time he speaks, “So what?” Meaning, what’s the point of learning all these things? And it’s good to ponder and personally realize it. The Word of God is not just about acquiring facts or knowledge but it’s about a changed life leading to glorifying God.

                Now let me get back to the topic itself! As per my research, the book of Revelations was written or authored by John, the last apostle of Jesus also known to be the beloved John. He wrote this book (Revelations) approximately 90 years A.D. and on this time, Christians were persecuted still under the Roman Empire. And so, the book of Revelations was written mostly known to be a prophetic book, but its main content or goal is to give hope amongst the persecuted Christians. Hope that truly Jesus Christ is coming again to take His people and to reign as the King of kings and the Lord of lords! For a truth, it has been 2000 years long and Christ has not come yet, nevertheless, His coming is sure for God is a Faithful God and does not lie. As His Word has promised, so shall it be fulfilled and therefore His coming is very near than it ever was.

                It is interesting that even with the current issues of the government or presidencies; this is a good reminder that there will never be a real perfect and greater government than that of the Lord Jesus Christ’s. People these days hope on a man or a person, but so easily man itself will look for holes or something that will pull the man down. And thing is, they surely will fall! Because man is not perfect! Only God is! Only the Lord Jesus Christ! Sad thing is we Christians tend to forget where we place our hope. I hope it’s not in this world but it is in Christ and for all eternity. Therefore, please do not bother yourself on the things of this world or even be consumed by worry or fear. Our life is in God’s hand! So whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s (Romans 14:8).

                Now, about the book of Revelation! It’s a book to give hope for Christians even in the midst of persecutions or strife or struggles. And I pray indeed that we are reminded of that blessed hope.

                Now, the verses 1-7 of chapter 2 reveals God’s message to the church in Ephesus. A little background of Ephesus is that the place is actually a center of trading and a place of dockyards where ships dock coming from different places. And, understanding this situation we could get to understand more by picturing our own place of trading, where ships comes in and foreign people come in. Understanding this, we could at least see the kind of people live in this place and what are their practices. And it is more probable that immorality can be visible in the area. The believers then most likely are the minority. Therefore standing for what you believe in Christ is a great struggle in the area.

               

V. 1        “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands."

                Angel of the church as we know is God’s messenger, which at this time we know as the pastor. “Him who holds the seven stars” talks about Jesus Christ.  

V. 2        “I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false."

Two things I wish to share from this verse,

               

                First, is the key word “know” from “I know your works, toil and patience / endurance…”. And if I may ask, “Does God know our works as a church? Do you think our church is doing well?“ Our churches should be, unless we choose to be ashamed of our church and that God is not interested of our church.

                Second, is the key word “tested” or “tried” (from other version). It indicates that the Ephesian church is able to know who’s who? Who are the true apostles of Christ and are not? How about us? Do we have the ability to discern who are the genuine and true teachers / preachers of God’s Word? Or we simply listen to any doctrines and false teachings? Teachers will not say “I’m now going to teach a false doctrine!” That’s absurd of course. Thing is false doctrines will look like a good and great doctrine. It will never manifest itself as false or wrong or evil. And how will we discern which is which? Be like the Berean Believers (from the book of Acts)! They compared and checked every word that came out of apostle Paul whether it is indeed written and in accordance to God’s Word. Be warned! It doesn’t mean it’s a verse from the Bible and we simply believe it. This requires also extent of studying and really comparing from other principles or doctrine of God’s Word because we should understand that no principle or doctrine in the Bible should contradict itself. If it contradicts principles / doctrines, then there is a problem on how we understand God’s principles.

                Considering these things, a Christian has to really grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Learning and growing towards maturity is truly a life long journey! It stops only when you stop breathing. Therefore, never ever be satisfied in what you already know for if Paul himself declared these words “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (Phil. 3:10), how much more ought to be for us?

By the way, growing mature in our spiritual life does not depend on the years we listen or read God’s Word. It is measured on how our life reflects what we learn and how we manifest Christ-likeness as what I’ve shared early on (Romans 8:29).

V.3-4     “I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name's sake, and you have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first."

Two things I wish to share from these 2 verses.

 First, is the question to reflect, “Are we also enduring, patient even in the midst of being scorned, persecuted, or in the midst of a great trial? How are we bearing the name of Christ?” Do we call ourselves Christian only on times we are fine and happy? Whereas, take it off when we are in trouble?  The Ephesian believers did not but continued faithfully and steadfastly!

But second thing I wish to ponder on, is where we would really be shocked or greatly stop and think hardly of it! The Ephesian believers left their first love! Their love for God has grown cold! And yet, it is amazing that they could still do what God has told them. Possible? Yes! Of course, it’s possible! We could observe that amongst ourselves. Even pastors or workers, especially them, are the biggest target. Teaching or preaching God’s Word, but the heart is not right. And if we read furthermore from the verses, the result is disastrous or tragic.

It makes me wonder though; do we really personally understand what it means to love God? For me? The thought of loving God is somewhat indescribable or unfathomable. How can a creature love an Almighty God, One Who is above and exceeds the limit of what we can even know? It is for me incomprehensible, but I look to His word for a better understanding and one that we could relate to. When it comes to God’s love, the 2 greatest commands come in. Love God with all that you are and love thy neighbor as thyself! Further on we read I John 4:19-21 and these verses instruct us that we manifest God’s love on how we love others, specially the brethren in the Lord. And so we ask? How is our love for the brethren or for others or even our enemies? Remember Jesus’ words? Some or many would say “impossible!” Well, yes if we let ourselves have full control of our will and our character BUT if we let God or Christ live in us and through us, SURELY IT CAN BE DONE! Because our forefathers in the Faith have already been able to do so! Still, impossible? Apostle Paul is one example. Have you not even comprehended how great a sacrifice he had to go through? All in the name of the gospel of Christ! It was for people he never even knew! The gentiles as we are, filthy in the eyes of the Jews! And yet the gospel of Christ was spread all throughout the whole earth. What an amazing love!? And that love comes from the love of God!

                In reality, we can never love God unconditionally like how He loves us. That’s because He already first initiated (chose without any condition) to love us. And so, we have no other chance         to love God unconditionally. We love Him because He first loved us!  

So, how are we manifesting God’s love towards others? Are we helping, serving, giving and forgiving others? If not, we ought to check our hearts. But one has to also check, that doing these things does not guarantee that you really love God. It is a little bit confusing, but the point is, these things we do for others are the result of how we really love God. It is not a cause or the initial spark of our love for God. Instead, it’s a reflection. Or, like the ray of the sun, that ray represents our action or our love towards others whereas; the sun represents our love for God.

Well, I hope we get at least an idea of how do we really love God. And as the verses warns the Ephesian, hope we are warned too. As Christians or even servants of God, the enormous number of activities or programs we do is not the measure of how great our love for God is. And it’s not in numbers of attendees or members I believe God is interested on, but on how many are truly converted and how faithful and passionately growing and serving they are. It is my prayer that we Christians indeed continue to grow, continue to know and continue to love God and others. But further on, be watchful that our love for God does not grow cold. For when it does, all our doings or actions or activities or programs are worthless and vain. It will be for nothing. Because reading verse 5 says, if one does not repent, God will take away the light as a church. In other words, the church becomes useless and powerless in the midst of where it stands. It becomes like one of the dark. The church may be big and has huge number of members, but without the love for God, it’s just like an organization. Doing all the things they could do, but without power and no impact on those that surround them. Want to know how your church is doing? Go out and ask the neighborhood who is not a member of the church. Then you will know. It’s far from the picture of the first Christian church, where people’s heart was broken just simply hearing the gospel of Christ. Souls were moved by the Spirit and the Lord Himself added to the church daily.

(V. 7) Those who has ears to hear let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches…

FOR WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO(Matt. 6:21)

Matthew 6:19-21 is a very familiar verse. It encourages us to think more of spiritual things more than earthly things. It reminds us that there are far more valuables than the things we treasure here on earth, here on our lifetime. Can’t help but wonder how many things in this world have greatly affected our mindset and our perspective in life?

Surely, there are those who don’t believe on these words of the Bible. I assume billions of people don’t even care. Sad thing is, even Christians called, literally, don’t put these principles into practice, perhaps, affected by the cares of this world.

Sometimes I think about the kinds and ways of people make a living these days. In our nation? Very unfair, hard, really hard… one has to find two or three ways just to earn for a living. Those that are on higher ups, are the only few who could so easily gain much with the expense of those that are below them. Funny how that works, but it’s the reality. Most often, those that are below work harder and yet earn so little. And, it’s OK! Why? Because the principle is that “it is better to get something than nothing.” It is indeed a frustrating principle to places where the mighty and the powerful gets everything. The principle of “The strong survives and the weak is destroyed” runs in this system. And sometimes what is right and what is wrong is out of the picture. These are the principles that seem to run the systems of this world. God’s principle? Gone and even rarely affect God’s people.

Well, I don’t know if people would agree with me, it’s just how I see and observe things. And to be honest, it may have also affected my perspectives. But, I’m not willing to just simply not do something about it. I am a Christian and the principles of God I ought to live and I ought to stand for. For what it’s worth, it’s worth everything that I am because I am a follower of Christ, a follower of the Almighty Living God. Furthermore, God’s principles written in His word gives so much meaning and understanding to me.  It gives meaning and purpose to why I exist and to why I live.

If I were to ask you personally, “Why do you exist? Why are you living?” Are we living simply for the sake of living and then dying? Life ought to have a reason or a purpose. And the only One Who knows that, is the one Who created us, God. Just like an inventor, one invents for a purpose. So the thing one invents exists for whatever purpose the inventor intends it to be. One more thing, why would an inventor simply make something out of no reason or purpose? It’s meaningless. And for people who believe in that, I pity you. Because your life has no meaning and so, why live at all? Why love at all? Why be happy at all? It’s absurd to do things without reason at all. It’s illogical. And if still people think I’m being illogical? Well, here I’ll draw the line.

Nevertheless, that is not what I wish to dwell on. What bites me much, are on Christians thinking like non-Christians. Because a question bothers me on most of us Christians is “Why are we really living?” Why I ask this is because, how we live seem to be not showing what the real reason why we exist or why God allows us to continue living. If I were to ask, what do you really treasure the most? And if we look to God’s Word and compare to what God’s desire or will for us, would it be aligned or be in-line with His desires? Well, sometimes I think Christians would answer “yes” to this question but is it out of pure right intentions and really Jesus-like intentions? I would like to emphasize on “JESUS-LIKE INTENTIONS.” Or added to the “yes” answer are personal motives and own desires. Well, I know, I can’t and shouldn’t judge anyone because God is the Righteous Judge. But I do believe it is a fair question to ask ourselves, is it really for God’s glory or for our own glory? Again, I would ask, “Why do you exist, oh Christian?”

Simply put, if you know why you exist and what God intends you to be, then do it.

The Good News People Throwaway

Well, the title may more likely be an overstatement. But in the general sense it does show reality. Now, what “Good News” am I talking about? Well, it’s none other but the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Before I do share my thoughts why people throw away the gospel, let me share what the gospel is all about. Just to make it clear.

We can find the Bible’s declaration of the gospel at I Cor. 15:1-5, through the apostle Paul:

“Now I would remind you, brothers,[a] of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.”

On these verses, apostle Paul summarized the gospel of Christ. But what apostle Paul gave here, is more than just a summary. He truly reminded the Christians of something: A truth that has made a great impact on those who have heard and received it. And when I say “received it,” it means they understood it. Now, what did they really understood?

Understanding the good news, one must first understand there is a bad news for which the reason of the “good news”. The bad news is simple: “Man is lost or is a sinner because of what Adam (the first man) has done, which is disobedience” (See / read the book of Genesis or Romans 5:12, 19). Furthermore on this bad news, man is doomed to eternal separation from God, because sin can never be part of Who God is.

God is Holy, Just and Righteous! He is the standard and measurement of what “Right” is! Think about it, how can we know what is right from wrong? From where do we base our thinking of what is right? From our parents or government? From where did they got this idea? It’s a never ending search, if we take God out of the picture. Some would say, it is based from the highest form of happiness. Now, where do we get that idea from? And how can we know it is the highest form of happiness, when people have different sense of their own happiness. If you would think of it, the psycho can think “killing is what makes him happy.” How do we argue with that? We get the majorities’ definition of happiness? Then steal away the minorities’ right to think of what their idea of happiness is? Isn’t that not fair at all? All these questions pops out when we take God out of the picture and not make Him the standard and measure of what right and wrong is. And this is the reason why man, who is a sinner, has to be set apart from God forever. From whence, the lake of fire was made, prepared by God for those who would not repent and receive His offer of Salvation (See Rev. 20:11-15).

BUT! Here is the GOOD NEWS! God provided a way for man not to be separated from God forever.  And, I do believe many have heard of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who came to earth, born of a virgin [which means He was born without being corrupted by sin that came from Adam, another reason why the Bible call Jesus the Second Adam, or Last Adam], lived a life “Righteously” [No sin at all, even with His own mouth - 1 Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21]; But, was judged and condemned like a sinner (Isaiah 53:12; Luke 22:37; 2 Cor. 5:21); And, therefore, taking upon Him the punishment that wasn’t for Him or even meant for Him at all. He was able to do miracles and wondrous things no man can do but God. Yet, at that moment of His suffering and last breath, He took it all upon Himself simply to pay the price of sin, which is death (Romans 6:23; Romans 5: 19). That was the transaction made, so man can be redeemed [bought back] from Satan to Him [God].

BUT! This doesn’t mean ALL man is automatically saved or brought back to God. Nay, that’s just the transaction made. But the decision, the will of man ought to still choose! Because God is offering this gift of Salvation and each individual has the choice to receive it through Faith in Christ [believing and trusting in what He has done and Who He is]. John 3:16 and John 1:12 and many more verses speaks of this!

And that is not the end of the Good News! It’s not only about being saved from the eternal punishment of sin. Attached to this offer or gift of God is all the promises He gave in His Word, the Bible. Such as being called a child of God, eternal home, mansion, heaven, co-heirs of Christ, and more! Too good to be true? Well, that is God’s offer in His Word! That’s the reason why Jesus Christ came two thousand years ago! Try looking at your calendar and see the year… That year was numbered, at the time Christ resurrected and ascended to heaven. And that year is being numbered because we are counting the years of His return, as He has promised. I know! Years have passed. But that doesn’t mean He will fail in fulfilling His promise. God’s promise to Adam for the Messiah was fulfilled for almost 4,000 years. What is 2,000 plus years with that?

It is indeed simple what God is offering. Because He Himself has made the way for man to be brought back to Himself and yet, man wants to complicate it and wants to do it on his own. And mostly, man has no interest in it and would just want to believe he can manage on his own. Whereas, others would look for something else other than Christ, something that would satisfy their own self desires or like what happened to Eve, it was pleasing to her eyes. The Bible also says, in the book of Timothy, some will depart and look for something that would please their ears or their stomach.  Having faith in Christ becomes nothing more than a myth. The Bible too becomes a myth to them. People will still choose those things that they can see, hear, or feel and claim to be that it is the truth! Many will not believe. Why? That is because man is corrupted from the beginning man fell to sin through Adam. Even Jesus Himself prophesied in Matthew 7, few will believe in Him. In addition, Satan continues to deceive people with many things, even raise false prophets and false teachers claiming to be Christ. This explains how the "good news is being thrown away".

How about you, how do you respond to the good news of the Lord Jesus Christ?

(Edited April 9, 2020)