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Living Between Joy and Adversity: Think and Consider

Living Between Joy and Adversity: Understanding Ecclesiastes 7:14

Discover how Living Between Joy and Adversity shapes your faith through Ecclesiastes 7:14. Learn powerful truths about prosperity, adversity, and trusting God’s sovereignty in every season.

Ecclesiastes 7:14 contains a powerful and often overlooked piece of wisdom from King Solomon, offering an explanation for the fundamental rhythm of life of joy and adversity.  The verse establishes that prosperity and adversity exist in a ceaseless, alternating pattern: God sets one over against the other so that man may not discover anything that will come after him.  Understanding joy and adversity reveals that living means embracing the full spectrum of joy and hardship as an inherent cycle.

Life rarely moves in a straight line. Instead, it swings between bright seasons of joy and heavier seasons of adversity. Understanding how to live well between joy and adversity in both moments is at the heart of biblical wisdom, and nowhere is this truth spoken more clearly than in Ecclesiastes 7:14. The call to live Living Between Joy and Adversity invites us to embrace life as it is—full of blessings, burdens, and the quiet in-between places where God shapes the soul.

Living Between Joy and Adversity

Life is a mixture of contrasting emotions. Some days bring delight—things go smoothly, relationships feel warm, and our hearts stir with gratitude. Other days bring challenge—unexpected news arrives, tensions rise, or circumstances unravel in ways we didn’t foresee. This is the rhythm of being human, and Scripture never pretends otherwise.

To live well Living Between Joy and Adversity means learning to find God not only in the highs but also in the lows, and even in the confusing middle spaces where life feels uncertain. Ecclesiastes invites us to step away from unrealistic expectations and embrace life honestly, faithfully, and wisely.

Why Life’s Seasons Matter

Understanding Joy and Adversity– the seasons of life matters because each one forms us differently. Joy teaches us to receive, savor, and celebrate. Adversity teaches us to slow down, reflect, and trust. Together, they shape a faith that is balanced and mature.

Life’s seasons matter because:

  • They remind us we are not in control
  • They shape what we value
  • They clarify what endures and what doesn’t
  • They point us back to God, who remains constant even as life shifts

The journey of Living Between Joy and Adversity isn’t about eliminating emotional swings—it’s about learning how to respond to them faithfully.

Ecclesiastes 7:14 — A Deep Scriptural Overview of Joy and Adversity  

Ecclesiastes 7:14 says:

“In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other…”

This single verse holds a profound and complex worldview. The writer, traditionally understood as Solomon, says life will include both prosperity and adversity. You cannot control which will come. But you can control how you respond.

This verse divides life into two simple categories:

  • Prosperity — seasons of goodness, blessing, sweetness, and ease
  • Adversity — seasons of hardship, pain, confusion, and loss

Solomon does not say one is proof of God’s pleasure and the other is proof of God’s displeasure. Instead, he says God sends both, and both have value.

The Context of Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes is wisdom literature written from the perspective of a man who has seen everything—wealth, success, sorrow, disappointment, and the surprising twists of life. He is not cynical; he is honest. He is spiritually grounded but refuses to sugar-coat reality.

This is why Ecclesiastes resonates so deeply with modern readers. It meets us in the complicated reality of being human.

Solomon’s Wisdom About Life’s Contradictions- Joy and Adversity

Solomon acknowledges the tension we all feel:

  • Good people sometimes suffer
  • Wicked people sometimes prosper
  • Life does not follow simple formulas
  • The righteous are not guaranteed ease
  • The unrighteous are not guaranteed misery

Ecclesiastes dismantles the idea that life will always make sense from our perspective. Instead, it teaches us that meaning is found not in perfect circumstances, but in trusting the God who authors every season.

The Day of Prosperity: Embracing God-Given Joy

Solomon’s first instruction is simple: “In the day of prosperity be joyful.”

This sounds obvious, but many of us struggle to actually enjoy good seasons. We rush past blessings, worry about losing them, or convince ourselves they are too good to truly savor.

Living Between Joy and Adversity means we must learn to receive joy as a gift without apology.

How Prosperity Shapes Gratitude

Prosperity teaches us gratitude when we pause long enough to appreciate it. Good seasons:

  • Remind us of God’s kindness
  • Encourage us to rest and celebrate
  • Strengthen relationships
  • Restore weary hearts

Gratitude is the natural companion of joy. And when gratitude fills the heart, entitlement loses its grip.

Common Misuses of Good Seasons: Joy and Adversity

Good seasons can be misused when:

  • We become complacent
  • We grow entitled or prideful
  • We place our security in our comfort
  • We forget that blessings are temporary

Prosperity is not a spiritual vacation from God; it is an invitation to deeper thanksgiving.

Practicing Joy the Biblical Way

To practice joy as Scripture teaches:

  • Slow down enough to notice what God is doing
  • Receive good gifts without guilt
  • Celebrate with others
  • Thank God often and specifically
  • Remember that joy does not guarantee tomorrow

Joy becomes spiritual formation when we see it as a gift, not a guarantee.

The Day of Adversity: Learning Through Hardship

The second instruction in Ecclesiastes is just as important:
“In the day of adversity, consider…”

This one word—consider—is the difference between wasted pain and transformative growth.

Adversity is not pleasant. No one seeks it out. But adversity can become the ground on which wisdom, maturity, and dependence on God are formed.

What It Means to “Consider” in Times of Pain

To “consider” means to:

  • Reflect deeply
  • Ask questions
  • Slow down emotionally
  • Pay attention to what God might be shaping
  • See your situation from a spiritual perspective

Adversity is the classroom where wisdom is cultivated.

Adversity as a Teacher

Adversity teaches us things prosperity rarely does:

  • How dependent we truly are
  • How fragile our control is
  • How deeply we need God
  • What truly matters in life

Pain has a way of clarifying the heart. It strips away illusions and draws us into honest self-examination before God.

Why God Allows Difficult Seasons

God does not waste adversity. He uses it to:

  • Strengthen our character
  • Deepen our trust
  • Break unhealthy attachments
  • Prepare us for future responsibilities
  • Expand our compassion for others

Adversity refines us. And though it may arrive uninvited, it never arrives without purpose.

God as the Author of Both Seasons

The heart of Ecclesiastes 7:14 is this truth:

“God has made the one as well as the other.”

This does not mean God delights in our suffering. It means He is sovereign over every season—joy and sorrow, prosperity and adversity. Nothing slips through His hands unnoticed.

Understanding God’s Sovereignty

God’s sovereignty means:

  • He is Lord over blessings
  • He is present in hardship
  • His wisdom exceeds ours
  • His purposes are eternal
  • His timing is perfect

When we accept God’s sovereignty, we gain peace even when we lack understanding.

Rejecting the “Good from God, Bad from Others” Mindset

Many people view blessings as divine favor and hardship as random misfortune. But Scripture refuses to divide life that way. God is Lord over all seasons, and His purposes in adversity are just as meaningful as His purposes in prosperity.

To live Living Between Joy and Adversity is to trust that God is good even when life is not easy.

Human Limitations and Trusting God with the Future

Ecclesiastes ends the verse with an important reminder:

“…so that man may not find out anything that will be after him.”

God intentionally keeps the future hidden so we learn to walk by faith.

Why God Keeps the Future Hidden

If we knew every outcome:

  • We would rely on ourselves
  • We would stop praying
  • We would never learn trust
  • We would control life instead of surrender to God

God keeps the future veiled not to frustrate us but to form us.

Faith Over Control

Faith is the opposite of control. Faith means:

  • Trusting God step by step
  • Believing He knows what we cannot
  • Resting in His character
  • Walking forward even without clarity

Life requires faith because life requires God.

Living Between Joy and Adversity Daily

To live well in both seasons means cultivating a balanced heart—one that rejoices fully in joy and thinks deeply in suffering.

Developing Emotional and Spiritual Balance

Healthy Christian living requires:

  • Wisdom to discern the season you’re in
  • Gratitude for blessings
  • Reflection during hardship
  • Patience with God’s timing
  • Hope that anchors the soul

Spiritual maturity is not built in one season alone; it is built in the interplay between both.

Anchoring Your Identity in God

Your identity cannot be rooted in:

  • Prosperity
  • Comfort
  • Success
  • Stability

It must be rooted in the unchanging character of God. Prosperity may shift, adversity may arrive unexpectedly, but God remains constant.

Practical Ways to Trust God in Every Season

Gratitude Practices

  • Write down blessings daily
  • Notice small joys
  • Speak gratitude aloud to God
  • Thank others regularly

Prayer and Reflection On Joy and Adversity

  • Pray honestly, not formally
  • Reflect on God’s presence in your suffering
  • Ask what He might be teaching
  • Invite Him into your emotional life

Community and Support

  • Lean on trusted friends
  • Seek counsel when confused
  • Share your burdens
  • Encourage someone else

Community is one of God’s primary tools for carrying us through adversity.

A Reflection with O. Henry’s Wisdom on Joy and Adversity

Henry once wrote, “Life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.”

It’s a tender, honest picture of the human experience — one that admits that sorrow often feels heavier and more frequent than joy. And yet, this simple line carries a quiet wisdom: life is a mixture. A blend of beauty and brokenness. A tapestry of tears and laughter, woven together in ways we don’t always understand.

Ecclesiastes 7:14 teaches the same truth, but with a deeper anchor: both the sobs and the smiles come through the hands of a sovereign and loving God. Nothing is random. Nothing is wasted. Even the “sniffles” — those small disappointments and daily struggles — carry purpose in the heart of God.

So as you walk the path between joy and adversity, remember:
Your life is more than its sobs.
More than its sniffles.
More than its smiles.

It is a story God Himself is writing — with meaning in every moment.

Related verses to meditate when your life turn sour suddenly

1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 45:7
I form the light and create the darkness; I bring prosperity and create calamity. I, the LORD, do all these things.

Lamentations 3:37-38
Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has ordained it? / Do not both adversity and good come from the mouth of the Most High?

Habakkuk 3:17-18
Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though the sheep are cut off from the fold and no cattle are in the stalls, yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!

Sharing Your Success: A Path to Deeper Joy and Fulfillment

When life is abundant—when your spirit is joyful, your efforts are rewarded, and success fills your life—it is a beautiful time to reflect and share that blessing with those in need.

We are reminded that the Earth and everything in it belongs to God (Deuteronomy 10:14, Psalm 24:1). By honoring the Lord with the your wealth (Proverbs 3:9), you not only acknowledge His ultimate ownership but also participate in His divine work of caring for the world.

  • Sharing is a joyful act of obedience and gratitude.

  • It is an expression of faith in His enduring provision.

Your generosity creates a ripple of hope and provides essential support to the poor.

While life inevitably brings challenges, maintaining a posture of faithfulness, reflection, and learning allows us to move through difficult times with grace. A faithful heart, shown through acts of giving and repentance, ensures that joy and renewed hope will always follow the darkness.

Consider the opportunity to share your success and honor God with your incredible gifts.

FAQs About Living Between Joy and Adversity

Below are expanded, pastoral, SEO-friendly FAQs designed to support the central theme while increasing depth and readability.

  1. Why does God give us both joy and adversity?

God gives both seasons because each one forms us differently.
Joy softens the heart and teaches gratitude.
Adversity strengthens the soul and teaches dependence.
Together, these seasons shape a balanced, mature faith. God uses both to refine our character, deepen our trust, and draw us closer to Him. Without joy, we would become discouraged; without adversity, we would become shallow.

  1. Does adversity mean I did something wrong?

Not at all. Scripture shows many faithful men and women who walked through adversity—Job, Joseph, David, Paul, and even Jesus Himself. Adversity is not a sign of divine punishment; it is often a tool of divine formation. God may use hardship to redirect, teach, or strengthen you. The presence of adversity does not indicate the absence of God’s love.

  1. How do I stay joyful when life is good without feeling guilty?

Many people feel uncomfortable enjoying blessings, as if joy is somehow unspiritual. But Scripture clearly says, “In the day of prosperity, be joyful.” Joy is a gift from God, not a distraction from Him. When God gives you a season of goodness—receive it, celebrate it, and thank Him for it. Joy becomes holy when it is wrapped in gratitude.

  1. What should I do during adversity when I feel overwhelmed?

Begin with the biblical instruction: “consider.”
Instead of running, hiding, or numbing out, pause and reflect.

Ask yourself:

  • What might God be teaching me?
  • What does this season reveal about my heart?
  • Where do I need to grow?
  • What truth can I cling to right now?

Seek prayer, community, and honest conversations. God never asks you to walk through adversity alone.

  1. How do I trust God when the future is unclear?

Trust grows when we shift our focus away from outcomes and toward the One who holds outcomes. You do not need to know the future in order to walk faithfully—you need to know the God who is already present in your tomorrow. Read Scripture, pray honestly, and remind yourself of the ways God has been faithful in the past. Faith is built one step at a time.

  1. What does Ecclesiastes 7:14 teach us about expectations?

It teaches us that life will not follow predictable patterns and that trying to control every outcome is exhausting and unrealistic. God designed life so that seasons change, circumstances shift, and the future remains hidden. Not to punish us—but to keep us dependent on Him. Any life built on control will crumble; any life built on trust will endure.

  1. How do I know which season I’m in?

You can identify your season by reflecting on the condition of your heart and your circumstances.
If you feel peace, gratitude, and abundance, you are in a season of prosperity—receive it joyfully.
If you feel stretched, challenged, or pressed, you are in a season of adversity—walk through it reflectively.
But remember: seasons shift. No season is permanent, and no season is wasted.

  1. What if I feel stuck between joy and adversity?

Many people live in the “in-between,” where life is not overwhelmingly joyful nor overwhelmingly painful. This space can feel confusing, but it is fertile ground for growth. In these middle places, God invites you to cultivate maturity, practice gratitude, and prepare your heart for whatever season comes next. The “in-between” is not a wasted space—it is a sacred one.

Holding Joy and Adversity with Faith

Living Living Between Joy and Adversity is one of life’s greatest spiritual challenges—and one of its greatest spiritual invitations. Ecclesiastes 7:14 gives us a framework that is honest, balanced, and deeply rooted in the wisdom of God. This single verse teaches us how to celebrate with humility, reflect with intention, and trust with confidence.

You will have seasons of joy.
You will have seasons of adversity.
And in every season, God remains faithful.

The day of prosperity teaches you to receive God’s goodness without fear or guilt.
The day of adversity teaches you to seek God’s wisdom without despair.
Both seasons shape your soul, refine your character, and deepen your understanding of God’s heart.

Life may not be predictable.
Circumstances may not be controllable.
But God—always and forever—remains the same.

To live wisely is to embrace every season with open hands:
  • joyful in prosperity,
  • thoughtful in adversity,
  • trusting in uncertainty,
  • hopeful in every moment.

As you walk through the shifting landscape of your own life—through blessings that make you smile and burdens that bring tears—remember this: the God who authors each season is also the God who walks with you through each one. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is random. Nothing is beyond His reach.

This is the beauty of Living Between Joy and Adversity.
Not a life free of hardship.
Not a life overflowing with ease.
But a life anchored in the unchanging presence of God, who gives meaning to both the sobs and the smiles, and who turns even the sniffles into lessons of grace.

Finally consider Ecclesiastes 9:12 (ESV): “For man does not know his time. Like fish that are taken in an evil net, and like birds that are caught in a snare, so the children of man are snared at an evil time, when it suddenly falls upon them.”

And Proverbs 1:17-18 (NLT): “If a bird sees a trap being set, it knows to stay away. But people like that are setting a trap for themselves, a trap in which they will die.”

If you will not consider, you will be like a bird caught in a trap and a fish caught in a net.  Consider…

On the season of joy, consider reading this — The Shocking Pagan Origins of Christmas 

 

 

Which Day Is The True Christian Sabbath? Sunday or Saturday?

Which Day Is The True Christian Sabbath? Sunday or Saturday? The Biblical Answer

Christ observed the true seventh-day Sabbath. Paul observed the true Christian Sabbath. But why today do millions of Christians observe Sunday as the day of worship? Is the Sabbath required for Christians? This article examines the biblical proof to answer: Which day is the Sabbath? Does it matter to God if you observe the wrong day of worship? Why do most Christians not observe the true seventh-day Sabbath?

The Great Deception: Warnings Against False Teachers and Why Most Christians Observe Sunday

Why do Christians not follow Christ, and why did Paul even say, “Imitate me”? Most Christians today observe the wrong day because they are deceived by Satan and his deceitful workers. If you follow them, you are also deceived, and you are endangering your eternal life. This raises the critical question: Who changed the day of worship from Saturday to Sunday?

Let us examine the biblical truth about the true seventh-day Sabbath.

  • Rev. 12:9: “And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.” Satan has been blinding the whole world for an aeon of time, and he has his followers.
  • 1 Peter 2:1: “But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.”

Remember, there are false prophets and false teachers. Those who prophesy but whose prophecies do not take place are simply false prophets.

Deut. 18: 20-22: “But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak… that prophet shall die.’… when a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.”

These false prophets exist, but do not be afraid of them. If you are following a false prophet, he is not sent by God. Leave him. Leave that church.

And we come to the next—the false teachers.

2 Cor. 11: 13-15: For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.

This is a biblical fact that there are false teachers and prophets, and their leader is Satan, the Great Deceiver. We must avoid false teachers. Believe the words of God.

Paul’s Example: The Sabbatarian Who Kept ‘The Way’

Paul advised the Christians to imitate him:

  • 1 Cor. 11:1: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.”
  • 1 Cor. 4:16: “Therefore I urge you, imitate me.”
  • Philippians 3:17: “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”

What day did Paul observe the Sabbath? Paul was openly a Sabbatarian. He kept the Law. “But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets,” (Acts 24:14).

The “Way” here is translated from the Greek word hodos. It means a path or road traveled, or a journey Christians should follow toward the Kingdom of God. Plainly, The Way is the method of knowing and how to worship the true God.

Paul was emphasizing he was walking the paths of his forefathers, the Israelites, and the path of Christ. The book of Acts repeatedly records early Christian believers as belonging to “The Way Christians” in Acts 9:2; 19:9; 24:14, 22.

  • A Call to Action: Do you follow the Way of the early Christian believers taught by Paul? It is time now to evaluate your salvation. You must seek and know the truth now and apply it.

The True Test of Faith: Knowing and Doing

Apostle James warned: “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). Sabbath keeping is a test command for those who are willing to obey Christ who has assured us, He will help us, Matt. 11:28-30.

There are two ways a person could be deceived:

  1. Not following the truth: You know the truth about the true worship day, and you do not believe; you are deceived.
  2. Wrongly believing: You know that Sunday is the wrong day of worshipping our Creator and you are still observing it; you are deceived.

You must follow the truth.

Paul’s Custom Confirmed:

  • Acts 17:2: “Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures.”
  • Paul kept the annual Sabbaths: He was hurrying to keep the Feast of Pentecost (Acts 20:16) and observed the Day of Atonement (Acts 27:9). Paul instructed the Corinthians to keep the Feast (1 Cor. 5:8).

Why are millions of innocent Christians being deceived into following false teachers who promote Sunday or Saturday worship as being equal? Do not be among the millions deceived. Observe the true rest day—the true worship day, the seventh-day Sabbath.

Did Jesus Change the Sabbath Day? Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath

Follow Paul and Timothy and start observing the true Sabbath, and you will no longer be deceived by Satan.

Who was Christ? We all know Christ was a Jew from the tribe of Judah. Christ kept the law, and He was sinless.

Luke 4:16: “So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read.”

Mark 2:28 states unequivocally: Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. He is not the Lord of Sunday, as many believe.

Christ poses a fundamental question in Luke 6:46 concerning the gap between profession and practice: “Why call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” This emphasizes that genuine faith requires concrete obedience.

The Problem of Hypocrisy and Offerings

This lack of obedience manifests as hypocrisy. Many believers praise God when they get a new job or salary increase but never give offerings to God.

Yearly, millions of Christians celebrate Christmas, which was rooted in pagan traditions and is not true, or celebrate birthdays, but never give an offering to God. When you read these truths and feel guilty, you must change. Honor God with your wealth and all your increase (Prov. 3:9), because “all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours,” (1 Chro. 29:11).

Christ: The God of the Old Testament and the Way

That God who spoke in 1 Chro. 29:11 was Christ, who was the God of the Old Testament (1 Cor. 10:4, John 8:58, Rev. 22:6).

Christ is the immovable “rock” (petra in Greek) (1 Cor. 10:4; Isaiah 26:4). He is the God of the Old Testament because “no one has seen God the Father at any time” (John 1:18). The God Moses and the Israelites saw was Christ.

Christ said in John 14:6, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The Way is Christ Himself.

The Law Endures: The Unalterable Ten Commandments Sabbath

Christ then affirmed the permanence of the Law:

Matt. 5: 17-19: “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill… Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Many preachers today say the 7th day Sabbath no longer matters. But the question remains: will you believe men, or will you believe Christ? Let Apostle Peter and other apostles answered -Acts 5:21 ” …We must obey God rather than men.”  So there you are. Peter counseled you. Obey God rather than people.

Christ inscribed the Ten Commandments Sabbath on stone to represent their enduring nature. The seventh-day Sabbath is included. Yet many theologians have changed and altered it. They are false teachers. Do not follow them.

Sabbath keeping from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset is one of the commandments most often violated. If you break it, you commit lawlessness (1 Joh 3:4).

“Least in the kingdom of heaven” is from the Greek word elachistos, meaning the smallest or very insignificant. If you break one of the commandments, you become insignificant. But if you teach them, you will become megas (exceedingly great) in the Kingdom of God.

Whoever wants to become great in the Kingdom of God, then obey His Sabbath.

There Remains a Sabbath Rest for the People of God

Why do you follow your false teachers? Follow Christ. He is the Truth, the Way, and The Life.

Christ said in Luke 18:8, “Nevertheless when the Son of Man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?”

The answer is Yes. He will find faith on earth for those who obey all His commandments, including the true seventh-day Sabbath.

Hebrews 4:9: “There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.”

Keep it and teach it and become great in the Kingdom of God. That is  a sure promised from Christ.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What day is the True Christian Sabbath?

Answer: The true Christian Sabbath, according to the Bible and the custom of Christ and the Apostle Paul, is the seventh day of the week, Saturday, observed from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset.

  1. Did Jesus change the Sabbath day to Sunday?

Answer: No. Jesus explicitly stated, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill” (Matt. 5:17). He kept the Sabbath as His custom (Luke 4:16) and declared Himself the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28), affirming its status as part of the eternal law.

  1. Why do most Christians worship on Sunday?

The observance of Sunday instead of the Sabbath is due to being deceived by false teachers and ministers who have altered God’s commandments (Rev. 12:9), a phenomenon warned against in 2 Corinthians 11 and 1 Peter 2.

  1. What is the consequence of breaking the Sabbath commandment?

Christ warned that whoever breaks one of the least commandments and teaches men so “shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:19). The article interprets “least” (elachistos) as becoming insignificant or irrelevant in the coming kingdom.

  1. What does Paul mean by “Imitate me”?

Paul told Christians to “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Since Paul kept the Law and observed the Sabbath (Acts 17:2), imitating him requires following his example of obedience to all of God’s commandments, including the seventh-day Sabbath.

6. Will Sabbath breaking affect your salvation?

Certainly.  Zechariah and Elizabeth were called righteous in Luke 1:6 because they were walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord”. Christ also performed all righteousness, Matt. 3:15.

7. What should I do next? 

James said if you know it and you do not do, you sin. You must observe now the Sabbath. Paul and Christ observed it and the early New Testament Church, James 4:17.

Decide With Faith-Follow Christ

The choice is now yours: will you follow the traditions of men or the Way of Christ and His Apostles?

You have read the plain, unalterable words of God. Sin is lawlessness. If you know the truth about the True Christian Sabbath—observed from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset—and refuse to keep it, you are actively choosing the path of disobedience.

Don’t risk being called “least in the kingdom of heaven.” Choose greatness.

The time to act is now. Today, commit to observing the Seventh-day Sabbath, follow the Way, and start walking the path of full obedience to Christ. Share this biblical truth with your congregation and family, and become one who does and teaches His commandments!

Salvation is individual, Phil.2:12.  Act now or the truth will be snatched away by the Evil One, Matt. 13:19.

Also read: Christ Practicing Jew. Did He Adhere to Mosaic Law?

The Truth About Christmas: Its Shocking Pagan Origins

The Plain Truth About Christmas: What History and Scripture Really Reveal.

Christmas Ancient Origins & The Hidden Truth Behind December 25

Discover The Truth About Christmas and uncover the surprising ancient origins of December 25, how pagan traditions shaped today’s holiday, and why its meaning remains debated.

The Truth about Christmas is far more complex than most people realize. While billions observe December 25 as a joyful celebration of Christ’s birth, only a few ever stop to ask a simple question: Why this date?

Understanding the Truth About Christmas requires digging through ancient cultures, old religions, philosophical writings, and biblical principles. Surprisingly, Christmas as we know it today didn’t begin in the New Testament, nor did early Christians celebrate it. Instead, its roots stretch deep into pre-Christian religions, especially those tied to sun worship and the winter solstice.

This article uncovers the real origins of Christmas—its historical path, its pagan ties, and its spiritual implications—so readers can understand what December 25 represents and decide for themselves how to view it.


The Ancient Roots Behind December 25

How Pagan Traditions Influenced Early Cultures

Long before Christmas existed, ancient civilizations celebrated the winter solstice. This event marked the sun’s “rebirth” as daylight gradually increased again. The date was widely honored with festivals, feasts, sacrifices, and rituals.

From Babylon to Rome, cultures worshipped gods linked to the sun, agriculture, or rebirth. Over time, these practices blended into the religious and political systems of powerful empires.

Rome’s Adoption of Mithraism and Its Connection to Christmas

Plutarch’s Account of Mithra and Roman Soldiers

Plutarch, the well-known Greek historian, wrote that Roman soldiers adopted Mithraism from the pirates of Cilicia, a region in modern-day Turkey.

The god Mithra—often pictured slaying a sacred bull—symbolized strength, loyalty, and victory, qualities Roman soldiers admired.

Since Mithra’s birth was celebrated on December 25, the date gained religious prestige in the Roman Empire long before Christianity dominated the region.

Why December 25 Became a Sacred Date

December 25 was celebrated as natalis solis invicti, meaning the birthday of the unconquered sun. Romans believed this day marked the sun’s triumph over darkness after the solstice. Festivals included:

  • feasting

  • games

  • honor to sun gods

  • exchanging gifts

These traditions would later influence what became known as Christmas.


Zoroaster, Persia, and the Birth of Mithraic Customs

Zoroaster’s Influence on Greek and Roman Thought

Zoroaster, also called Zarathustra, was a key religious figure whose teachings shaped Persian beliefs. Greek philosophers—among the most influential in history—were deeply impacted by his ideas.

The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy even lists him as one of the earliest philosophers known.

Islamic References to Zoroaster and Early Magian Beliefs

The Sunni historian al-Tabari wrote that Zoroaster once lived in Israel and had connections to the prophet Jeremiah. According to this tradition, after breaking trust with his spiritual teacher, Zoroaster left Israel, traveled east, and introduced modified teachings to foreign kings.

These ideas laid the groundwork for the Magian priesthood mentioned in Matthew 2:1–12.


The Spread of Pagan Sun Worship Across Civilizations

Nimrod and the Babylonian Religious System

Historian Alexander Hislop traced many pagan religions back to Babylon and its legendary king, Nimrod. Hislop labeled Nimrod as the world’s first apostate, claiming his sun-based worship system influenced Egypt, Persia, Greece, Italy, India, China, and Japan.

Hislop’s “The Two Babylons” and Its Claims

Hislop’s well-known book proposes that many modern religious customs—including Christmas—evolved from ancient Babylonian practices. Anyone exploring the True History of Christmas will find this work essential for understanding religious syncretism.


How Mithraism Blended Into Early Christianity

The Role of The Roman Empire

When Christianity spread across the empire, Romans found it difficult to abandon their beloved festivals. Instead of eliminating ancient celebrations, some leaders merged older customs with Christian themes to make conversion easier.

The “Birthday of the Unconquered Sun” Festival

The celebration of December 25 as the sun’s rebirth smoothly transitioned into a Christian holiday. The pagan meaning was replaced with the birth of Christ, though the date itself stayed the same.


The Venerable Bede and the Institutionalization of December 25

How Christmas Entered the English Christian Tradition

When Rome conquered Britain, it carried its Mithraic traditions with it. Later, in 731 A.D., the English monk known as the Venerable Bede wrote Ecclesiastical History of the English People, documenting December 25 as Christ’s birthdate.

This helped cement the date within Western Christianity.


Scriptural Warnings Against Pagan Blending

Biblical Teachings on Idolatry

Many biblical passages warn against mixing true worship with pagan practices:

  • 1 Corinthians 10:14

  • 1 Samuel 15:23

  • Exodus 32

  • Numbers 25

  • Revelation 18:4

The Bible consistently teaches that God’s people should avoid adopting customs rooted in idolatry.

The Contrast Between True Worship and Vain Worship

Christ warned in Matthew 15:8–9 that worship can become vain when it is based on human traditions instead of God’s truth. John 4:23–24 adds that true worship must be in “spirit and truth,” not in customs inherited from other religions.


Cultural, Social, and Emotional Reasons People Celebrate Christmas

Food, Festivity, and Social Pressure

People love seasons of joy—feasting, gift-giving, rest, and family time. Even if a date has questionable origins, social customs make it difficult to resist the celebrations.

The Psychology of Celebration Dates

Human beings enjoy structure and annual festivals. Dates help anchor traditions, so even if the historical meaning is lost, the celebration persists.


Modern Christian Practices and the Question of Truth

Are Celebrations Motivated by Faith or Convenience?

Many Christians celebrate December 25 with sincere hearts, but few examine whether their practices align with biblical instructions or historical facts.

The Wise Versus the Unwise: Daniel’s Prophecy

Daniel 12:10 states that “the wise shall understand.” Understanding The True History of Christmas requires thoughtful reflection, not blind tradition.


FAQs About The True History of Christmas

  1. Is December 25 mentioned in the Bible as Christ’s birthday?
    No. Scripture never provides a date for Christ’s birth.

  2. Did early Christians celebrate Christmas?
    No. The earliest Christians did not observe Christ’s birth, focusing instead on His death and resurrection.

  3. Why was December 25 chosen?
    It matched the pagan festival celebrating the sun’s rebirth.

  4. Was Mithra born on December 25?
    Yes, the Roman version of Mithra’s mythology included a December 25 birth.

  5. Did Christianity borrow rituals from pagan religions?
    Historically, some customs were adapted to ease conversion.

  6. Is celebrating Christmas considered sinful?
    Yes. Do not follow the ways of the heathen, Jer. 10:2


Understanding The Truth Behind December 25

The Truth About Christmas reveals that December 25 did not originate from Scripture but from ancient religious systems deeply tied to sun worship and pagan practices. While many celebrate the holiday with good intentions, understanding its roots helps believers make informed decisions about their faith and traditions.

Million of Christians celebrate Christmas and exchange gifts but do they honor God with it?  They spend thousand of dollars but do not give offerings to Christ. What a vain celebration.

Matt. 15: 7 “Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:  ‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.

For additional reading on ancient pagan religions, visit reputable historical sources such as the World History Encyclopedia.

Read also Christ Practicing Jew. Did He Adhere to Mosaic Law?

The True Church of God: Why Are There So Many Names Today?

True Church of God? Why Are There So Many Names Among Christian Churches Today?

Christ built only one true Church of God, yet so many believers are confused and divided by man-made names.

The True Church of God is the only one Christ purchased with His own blood. Why do we see thousands of church denominations today? It is sanctified (set aside for holy use) and teaches the truths revealed (Psalm 25:14, John 7:17; 8:31-32; 14:21, ) by God through Christ and the Apostles. Every Scripture points to this sacred assembly.

Imagine following the true Church of God that Christ Himself established—the one where faith is preserved, the true Church of God, where the Biblical Holy Days are observed, and God’s truths are faithfully taught, like the reward of the saved is on earth and not heaven, Rev. 5:9-10. In this Church of God, you stand in the light of God, protected from deception, and aligned with His will.

Find the True Church of God Today

Follow Christ, John 6:7, 14, 37-the eighth day of Lev. 23: 39) Observe His teachings. Embrace the Church of God sanctified by His blood. Do not be deceived by man-made traditions—stand with the Church of God that holds God’s truths.

Christ built only one true Church of God, yet many leaders have established organizations with names not found in Scripture. This has caused religious confusion and division among believers.

Now is the time to return to the truth and discover the true name of the Church of God that Christ built—the name found in the Bible, not invented by men. God’s True Church was never meant to be divided or renamed according to human preference. If we truly desire to follow Christ, we must seek the Church that bears the name of God. God revealed this truth to Christ and He taught the truths to the True Church of God.

The 12 Scriptural Proofs for the true “Church of God”

This is the name of the true Church Christ built. Read these verses which contain the Church of God and believe the Bible rather than human leaders.

1.) Acts 20:28

“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”

  • Significance: This is the first mention of the Church of God in Ephesus (representing the first era of God’s church, Rev. 2:1).
  • Identity: Highlights that its sacred identity is anchored in the Father, who calls believers through Christ (1 Cor. 1:9; John 6:44).
  • Sanctification: It is purchased by Christ’s blood, making it precious and holy.

2.) 1 Corinthians 1:2

“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints…”

  • Key Truth: The Church of God is sanctified by the blood of Christ.
  • Definition: The Greek word ekklesia means “called out ones.” No other church name was sanctified except the Church of God.

3.) 1 Corinthians 10:32

“Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God.”

  • Context: Paul calls Christians to live responsibly.
  • Instruction: Avoid causing a Jew, Gentile, or fellow believer in the Church of God to stumble.

4.) 1 Corinthians 11:16

“But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.”

  • Unity: Refers to quarrelsome members causing unnecessary conflict.
  • ICCOG does not engage in debate and does not believe on coincidence. You do not come here by chance. You are led by His Holy Spirit, Rom.8:14. Hebrews 3:15-19, says, “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion”. This verse, along with references in Hebrews 4:7 and Psalm 95:7, is a call to not resist God’s guidance.
  • The passage urges immediate obedience to God, using the example of the Israelites who rebelled against God despite being led out of Egypt.
  • According to Jewish tradition (specifically the Talmud, Taanit 29a) establishes that the chain of national tragedies on the 9th of Av began with the sin of the spies in the wilderness (Numbers 13–14). The 9th of Av tragedies include:
  • Destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians (586 BC,
  • Destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans (70 CE),
  • Tisha B’Av 1941, the order to implement the “Final Solution” was effectively signed.
  • On Tisha B’Av 1942, the mass deportation of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto to the Treblinka extermination camp began.
  • Order: Believers are called to unity and order, not personal preference. Note the plural use: “churches of God,” referring to local congregations like Ephesus or Corinth.

5.) 1 Corinthians 11:22

“What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing?…”

  • Rebuke: Paul rebukes selfishness during the Passover service.
  • Equality: Believers must show respect, equality, and love. Mistreating the poor is an affront to God’s people.

6.) 1 Corinthians 15:9

“For I am the least of the apostles… because I persecuted the church of God.”

  • History: Paul admitted he was once a persecutor of the Church of God. He was a Jew whose religion was Judaism, and his beliefs were opposed to the true teachings of the Mosaic Law as taught by Christ.
  • Lineage: Early members included Stephen, Peter, John, and the Twelve Apostles (Acts 8:1–3).

7.) 2 Corinthians 1:1

“Paul… To the church of God, which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in all Achaia.”

  • Authority: Paul addresses the Corinthian Church of God by the Father’s will.
  • Saint means holy and righteous.
  • All genuine believers are considered “saints” (holy ones or set aside) in Scripture, making “living saints” a scriptural concept. The Bible does not contain any formal, structured canonization process where human or ecclesiastical authorities declare someone a saint based on the merit of their good behavior.
  • Frequency: This is the sixth time Paul addresses this church name, emphasizing its importance even to a problematic congregation.

8.) Galatians 1:13

“For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it.”

  • Apostolic Foundation: Early followers were the Twelve Apostles (Matt. 16:18). This is a Scriptural truth that Paul’s application of Judaism was wrong and that Christ’s teachings of the Mosaic laws was correct.
  • Prophetic Connection: Some COG scholars suggest Galatians descended from Reuben, of the Lost Ten Tribes of Israel. Faith in Christ makes believers heirs of Abraham (Gal. 3:7–9).

9.) 1 Thessalonians 2:14

“For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus…”

  • Imitation: The Thessalonians imitated the faithful Judean churches of God.
  • Adherence: Emphasizes proper worship of God and adherence to His truth.

10.) 2 Thessalonians 1:4

“So that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith…”

  • Example: Paul praises their faith as an example for other churches of God.
  • Exclusivity: Paul mentions no other name for the assembly but Church of God.

11.) 1 Timothy 3:5

“For if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?”

  • Leadership: An overseer must manage his household well before leading the Church of God. Church leadership is a sacred stewardship.

12.) 1 Timothy 3:15

“…conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

  • Foundation: The Church of God is the pillar and ground of God’s truths.
  • Revelation: It is supported by truths revealed by the Father to Christ and the Apostles. The Father does not reveal truths to false churches.

The Biblical Significance of the Name- True Church of God

The name “Church of God” is found 12 times in seven New Testament books. In biblical numerology:

  • Twelve symbolizes a perfect governmental foundation (12 tribes, 12 apostles, 12 gates of Jerusalem).
  • Seven symbolizes spiritual completeness (7 days of creation, 7 church eras).

This Church observes the seventh-day Sabbath, annual Holy Days, and biblical dietary laws. It upholds the truth that God reveals only to the humble and spiritually dependent (Matthew 11:25–27).

Do Not Be Deceived-Only True Church of God

Truth comes from Christ, not tradition. John 8:45 states that only those of God hear His words. Whatever church you attend—if it does not follow God’s words—you risk deception.

  • Follow Christ: He is the way, the truth, and the life.
  • Reject Deception: Do not let Satan steal God’s truths.
  • Action: Go to the church that obeys God’s hidden truths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are there so many church names today?  A1: Many are deceived by Satan (Rev. 12:9). Christ built only one Church. Human traditions created other names and denominations which Scripture does not recognize.

Q2: What is the true name of the Church? A2: The Church of God. It is sanctified by Christ’s blood and founded on the teachings of the Apostles.

Q3: How can I recognize the true Church of God? A3: It teaches the uncorrupted truth of God, observes the Sabbath and annual Holy Days, follows God’s laws, and teaches that the reward of the saved is rulership in the Millennium.

Q4: Why must I follow this Church? A4: Only in the Church of God are the truths of Christ preserved, revealed, and faithfully practiced.

Q5: What if I follow a church that does not obey God’s words? A5: You are at risk of spiritual deception. Salvation comes through faith in Christ and obedience to His Word within His true body.

Discover the True Church of God Today!

Do not follow man-made names—seek the Church Christ built, purchased by His own blood.

  1. Follow Christ: The Way, the Truth, and the Life!
  2. Learn and Obey: Observe the Sabbath, the Holy Days, and God’s laws.
  3. Protect Yourself: Join the Church that upholds God’s truths revealed through Christ.

Be in the Kingdom of God and reign with Christ a thousand years on earth,  Rev. 5:10, 20: 6, Rev/ 21 1-3. Yes. That is reigning with Christ in the coming World Tomorrow on the earth not heaven.

Act Now! Believe Christ, follow His Church, and stand in the light of God’s truth. Do not wait—your faith and salvation depend on it.

Also read this The True Religious Identity of Christ 

 

 

Christ Practicing Jew. Did He Adhere to Mosaic Law?

Christ Was A Practicing Jew.

Jesus Christ’s  Adherence to Mosaic Law and His Fulfilment Showed Christ Was A Practicing Jew.

The religious identity and practices of Christ practicing Jew, remain a subject of extensive theological and historical inquiry. While recognized as the central figure of Christianity, a close examination of the Gospels reveals his profound connection to, and participation in, the Jewish tradition and Mosaic Law.

This analysis delves into the concept of “religion” within a biblical context and explores key aspects of Christ’s faith as depicted in the New Testament. It seeks to demonstrate that Jesus practicing Jew whose life and teachings align with and, from a Christian perspective, fulfill the Mosaic covenant.

Defining “Religion” in a Biblical and Historical Context

The term “religion” carries a multifaceted meaning across cultures and historical periods. Commonly understood, it represents a collection of cultural systems, belief systems, and worldviews that connect humanity to spirituality and, frequently, to moral values. These systems typically involve a relationship with what is regarded as holy, sacred, or divine. In the ancient Near East, the concept often intertwined inextricably with law, communal identity, and societal structure.

Within the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), the word dat (דָּת), particularly in later books like Esther and Daniel, primarily signified “law,” “decree,” “edict,” or “sentence” in a legal or administrative sense. It denoted established rules and regulations issued by an authority. Over time, dat began to encompass the broader meaning of a comprehensive set of laws, beliefs, and practices governing a community’s relationship with the divine.

It is noteworthy that no single word in ancient Hebrew perfectly captures the expansive, modern English concept of “religion.” Instead, the Old Testament texts describe a way of life, comprising practices, laws, covenants, worship, faith, and a direct relationship with God. Core concepts include Torah (תּוֹרָה), meaning “instruction” or “law,” and emunah (אֱמוּנָה), meaning “faith” or “faithfulness.” These terms encapsulate aspects of what contemporary society might label “religion.”

This analysis posits that Christ’s adherence to the teachings given to Moses, particularly concerning the worship of God, formed the core of his religious practice. Christ practicing Jew. His statements, such as those acknowledging the Pharisees’ legitimate authority as those who “sit in Moses’ seat,” are interpreted as emphasizing obedience to established leadership within the framework of Mosaic Law, while simultaneously distinguishing between divine commandments and human traditions.


7 Biblical Proofs: Christ Practicing Jew

The following seven points, supported by biblical Scripture, illustrate Christ’s life as a faithful follower of the Mosaic Law and Jewish tradition.

1. Christ’s Jewish Identity and Lineage

The New Testament genealogies of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38 are crucial in establishing his Jewish identity. Matthew’s account traces Jesus’s lineage from Abraham through King David, a key requirement for Messianic prophecy. Luke’s genealogy similarly connects Jesus to Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelite nation.

These genealogies firmly root Jesus within the historical and covenantal framework of Israel. His birth in Bethlehem, fulfilling Micah 5:2, further solidified his identity as the “Son of David,” the Messiah, born into the Jewish nation. His circumcision on the eighth day, as per Mosaic Law (Luke 2:21), also marked his formal entry into the covenant community of Israel.

2. Claim to Pre-existence and Divinity (Echoing the God of Moses)

Jesus’s assertion of his divine nature and pre-existence is a pivotal aspect of his identity. His declaration, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I am” (John 8:58), is understood as a profound echo of God’s self-revelation to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14, where God declared, “I AM WHO I AM.”

By using “I AM,” Jesus positioned himself as co-eternal and sharing the essential nature with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of the Mosaic covenant. This claim transcended the typical identity of a prophet, placing Jesus directly in the line of divine revelation that began with Moses.

3. Observance of Jewish Feasts and Holy Days

The Gospels consistently portray Jesus actively participating in the Jewish pilgrimage festivals and other religious observances outlined in Mosaic Law. These feasts were integral to the religious and communal life of ancient Israel.

  • Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): John 7 records Jesus’s presence at this major pilgrimage festival, where he publicly taught within the Temple courts, highlighting his adherence.

  • Passover (Pesach): Jesus observed Passover, the most significant Jewish festival. The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17-30, etc.) was a Passover Seder, where he reinterpreted its elements to signify his own impending sacrifice, demonstrating his fulfillment of the Passover lamb typology.

His consistent attendance at prescribed events underscores his engagement with the Jewish religious calendar.

4. Observance of the Sabbath

Jesus’s relationship with the Sabbath illustrates both his adherence to its principle and his challenge to rigid interpretations. Luke 4:16 states that it was Jesus’ “custom” to attend synagogue on the Sabbath, indicating a lifelong practice consistent with Jewish religious life.

While regularly observing the Sabbath, his actions—particularly his numerous healings—drew criticism. Jesus did not abolish the Sabbath; instead, he asserted his authority as “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28), clarifying its true purpose: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). He demonstrated that the Sabbath was intended for good, mercy, and rest, challenging the man-made regulations that obscured the divine intent (Exodus 20:8-11).

5. Affirmation and Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets

One of Jesus’s most explicit declarations regarding his relationship to the Old Testament is found in Matthew 5:17-18:

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”

This statement firmly establishes that Jesus did not seek to nullify or destroy the Mosaic Law. His purpose was to bring it to its complete and perfect realization. The concept of “fulfillment” implies both perfect obedience to the Law’s requirements in his own life and the bringing of its prophetic and spiritual intent to their ultimate conclusion. He exemplified the Law’s highest demands, calling for a deeper righteousness that went beyond mere external compliance.

6. Distinction Between Mosaic Law and Pharisaic Interpretations

Jesus frequently drew a clear distinction between the divinely ordained Mosaic Law and the human interpretations, traditions, and perceived hypocrisy of the Pharisees. In Matthew 23:2-3, he acknowledged their legitimate teaching authority: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat, so practice and observe everything they tell you.”

However, he critiqued their focus on external piety while neglecting “the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23). His challenge was directed at their failure to embody the spirit of the Law they taught and their burdening of people with man-made rules (Matthew 15:1-9), not at the divine Law itself.

7. Adherence to Biblical Dietary Laws and Focus on Internal Purity

Jesus consistently emphasized internal purity over external ritualistic washing (Matthew 15:19-20). He clarified that spiritual defilement originates from within a person: “For out of the heart come evil thoughts… These are what defile a person.”

Crucially, this teaching did not negate adherence to biblically prescribed dietary laws (Leviticus 11). The Gospels indicate that Jesus himself adhered to these regulations. The context was the tradition of handwashing before meals, not the consumption of biblically unclean meats. There is no scriptural record of Jesus consuming foods explicitly forbidden by Leviticus 11. Jesus’s life, therefore, consistently demonstrated adherence to the Mosaic dietary laws as part of his Jewish faith and perfect obedience to the Law.


Conclusion: Jesus, the Fulfillment of the Mosaic Covenant. Christ Practicing Jew

Based on the Scriptural evidence, Christ’s religious practice is understood as a profound adherence to the teachings of Moses, which he fully embodied and brought to fulfillment. Jesus was a practicing Jew who honored the Mosaic Law and the Prophets, meticulously observing the Sabbath, participating in the prescribed feasts, and upholding divine commandments.

His teachings are interpreted not as a rejection of the Old Testament, but as a deeper, fuller exposition of its spiritual intent and a culmination of its prophecies. Christ’s life and ministry thus represent an embodiment and spiritual completion of the Mosaic covenant, providing a foundational understanding for the development of early Christian thought and its relationship to its Jewish roots.

Also read also this article — The True Church of God: Why Are There So Many Names Today?