Category Archives: Trinity

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Share the Good News

The Living Bread That Gives Eternal Life (John 6:41-58)

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How far are you willing to go in your faith when the words of Yeshua challenge your understanding?

Key Verse:
“I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.” —John 6:51 (NASB)

Background Context:
As Yeshua continues to teach, He confronts growing resistance among the Jewish crowd. They struggle with His claim to have come down from heaven and are deeply disturbed when He declares that eternal life comes through eating His flesh and drinking His blood. His words are not only confusing but offensive to those who were grounded in physical expectations of the Messiah. Yet Yeshua does not soften His message—He deepens it.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 6:41-58

Words to the Jews

      41Therefore the Jews were grumbling about Him, because He said, “I am the bread that came down out of heaven.” 42They were saying, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does He now say, ‘I have come down out of heaven’?” 43Jesus answered and said to them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. 44“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day. 45“It is written in the prophets, ‘AND THEY SHALL ALL BE TAUGHT OF GOD.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father, comes to Me. 46“Not that anyone has seen the Father, except the One who is from God; He has seen the Father. 47“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. 48“I am the bread of life. 49“Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. 50“This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. 51“I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.”

      52Then the Jews began to argue with one another, saying, “How can this man give us His flesh to eat?” 53So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. 54“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. 55“For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink. 56“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 57“As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats Me, he also will live because of Me. 58“This is the bread which came down out of heaven; not as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live forever.”

Reflection on John 6:41–58:
The crowd’s grumbling mirrors the complaints of Israel in the wilderness when they received manna. Their ancestors questioned God’s provision, and now their descendants question the One who is Himself the Bread of Life. They cannot reconcile the carpenter’s son with the claim of divine origin.

Yeshua boldly declares that only those drawn by the Father can come to Him. He is not interested in popularity—He is interested in truth. And the truth is that eternal life comes only through Him. He compares Himself to the manna that their forefathers ate, pointing out that although it sustained them for a time, they still died. In contrast, the one who partakes of Him will never die.

This passage reaches a climax with a powerful and difficult metaphor: “eat My flesh and drink My blood.” Yeshua speaks spiritually, foretelling the significance of His sacrifice. He is not teaching literal cannibalism—He is pointing to a deep, abiding faith and participation in His death and resurrection. To eat His flesh and drink His blood is to fully receive and rely on His sacrifice for life. It’s to take Him into ourselves in a way that changes everything—how we live, how we think, how we love.

To abide in Him, as He says in verse 56, is to remain connected and dependent on Him for our very life. Just as physical food sustains our body, Yeshua’s body and blood sustain our spirit.

Application:
Don’t be quick to walk away when the Word challenges you. When Yeshua speaks hard truths, lean in. Accept His sacrifice deeply and personally—not as a distant concept, but as your only true sustenance. Reflect on the depth of what it means to abide in Him. Are you living as though your life depends on Him? Because it does.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Yeshua, the Bread of Life. I confess that at times Your truth stretches me and tests my understanding. Help me not to grumble or turn away, but to trust and abide in Your Son. Let His sacrifice be my sustenance, and His life be my hope. Draw me closer through Your Spirit and deepen my dependence on You daily. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Heaven and Hell, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Salvation

The Bread That Satisfies Forever (John 6:26-40)

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What are you hungry for—earthly comfort or eternal life?

Key Verse:
“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.’” —John 6:35 (NASB)

Background Context:
After feeding the five thousand, Yeshua withdrew from the crowd. Yet they followed Him across the sea, eager not for His message but for another meal. When they find Him, He challenges their motives and redirects their focus from temporary provisions to eternal truth. He reveals that He is the true bread from heaven—sent not just to satisfy stomachs but to offer eternal life.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 6:26-40

Words to the People

      26Jesus answered them and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. 27“Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.” 28Therefore they said to Him, “What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?” 29Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.” 30So they said to Him, “What then do You do for a sign, so that we may see, and believe You? What work do You perform? 31“Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘HE GAVE THEM BREAD OUT OF HEAVEN TO EAT.’”32Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread out of heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the true bread out of heaven. 33“For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world.” 34Then they said to Him, “Lord, always give us this bread.”

      35Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst. 36“But I said to you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. 37“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. 38“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39“This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. 40“For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.”

Reflection on John 6:26–40:
The crowd wanted more miracles, more bread, more signs. They referenced the manna from heaven that sustained their ancestors, but they missed the point. Manna perished. The people who ate it still died. Yeshua was offering something far greater—Himself, the bread of life that endures forever.

He tells them not to labor for perishable food, but for that which leads to eternal life. They ask, “What must we do?” His answer is stunning in its simplicity and depth: “Believe in Him whom He has sent.” This isn’t a passive belief, but a surrendering trust, a faith that draws near and never lets go.

In this passage, Yeshua unveils the will of the Father: that none who come to the Son will be cast out. That all who behold and believe in the Son will have eternal life. He offers not only sustenance for today, but the promise of resurrection on the last day.

We must ask ourselves: Are we following Jesus because we think He will make life easier? Or are we coming to Him because He alone offers eternal life? Like the crowd, we may be tempted to seek signs, comfort, or provision, but He calls us to something deeper—complete trust in who He is and what He came to do.

Application:
Evaluate your spiritual hunger. Are you more focused on what God can do for you in this life, or are you pursuing Him for the sake of knowing Him and receiving eternal life? Come to Him daily, not just for provision, but for communion and nourishment that never fades.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Yeshua, the true bread of life. Forgive me for the times I have pursued You only for what I wanted, not for who You are. Teach me to trust You, to hunger for Your truth, and to rest in the promise of eternal life. Help me live today with eternity in view. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Traditions / Holidays

The Ultimate Act of Love: Reflections on Memorial Day

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As we recognize Memorial Day, it is a good time to reflect on and appreciate those who have laid down their lives for the rest of us to be able to live free in the United States of America. It is a good time to pray for those who are actively serving, have served, or are surviving family of those who have died in service to our country. God gave us this unique nation based on Judeo-Christian values and heritage. Many have served and died protecting it.

Yeshua demonstrated and taught that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for his friends. He laid down His life for all those who choose to follow Him and submit to Him. We can be thankful for sure that our sins can be forgiven because of Him. We could never pay that debt.

Yeshua also encouraged His disciples to show this kind of love for one another as well… to lay down their life for one another. So, too, are we encouraged to lay down our lives for one another. At times, we may face a situation where we literally must make that choice in an instant. Other times we lay down our lives by how we live for others rather than living for ourselves.

As we read, we should not overlook that Yeshua said that “You are my friends if you do what I command you.” This is clearly important, but a different context in our relationship with Him vs. relationships with each other that we may consider friends. We should obey Yeshua to be His “friend”. We do not need to obey each other to be friends.

John 15:12-17

Disciples’ Relation to Each Other

12“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. 13“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. 14“You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. 16“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. 17“This I command you, that you love one another.

Take time to pray for those who risk their lives or lose them for others. Pray also for their families. Of course, not everyone in uniform is righteous or acts with righteous motives, but many have sacrificed none the less to protect our country and our freedom. Pray also for the leadership in our government so that they would lead well and not recklessly. Further, pray for the people of our nation that they would hold in high regard those that serve to protect our nation and risk their lives to do so.

Take time to also pause and reflect on our Savior, Yeshua, who laid down his life for us so we could be forgiven and reconciled with the Father. Give thanks to him. Do not let that offer be wasted. Rather, submit to him, turn from your sin, and seek him. Let him be Lord of your life. You will find greater joy and peace in this world and after.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You that You sent Yeshua to lay down His life for me, so that I could be forgiven and reconciled to You. Thank You for the people that have sacrificed personally to protect and build up our nation as a free nation built on individual liberty and not dominated by tyrants or a ruling class that controls the people. Please help protect and maintain that nation based on Your principles and ideals from those who would change it for something else, like socialism or simply giving up more and more individual freedom to government control. Please raise up the righteous and bring restoration to the land that we would be a light for the world to bring You glory. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Peace / Rest, Submitted / Servant

The One Who Walks Through the Storm (John 6:15-25)

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When the winds rise and fear threatens to take hold, remember the One who walks on the waves and speaks peace into our hearts.

Key Verse:
“But He said to them, ‘It is I; do not be afraid.’” —John 6:20 (NASB)

Background Context:
This passage follows immediately after the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. The crowd, amazed by Yeshua’s power, wanted to make Him king by force. But Yeshua knew their hearts were set on worldly solutions, not spiritual truth. So He withdrew alone to the mountain. Meanwhile, the disciples headed across the Sea of Galilee without Him and found themselves in a storm. Then, in the dark of night, Jesus came to them—walking on the water.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 6:15-25

Jesus Walks on the Water

      15So Jesus, perceiving that they were intending to come and take Him by force to make Him king, withdrew again to the mountain by Himself alone.

      16Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, 17and after getting into a boat, they started to cross the sea to Capernaum. It had already become dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18The sea began to be stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. 19Then, when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat; and they were frightened. 20But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21So they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

      22The next day the crowd that stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was no other small boat there, except one, and that Jesus had not entered with His disciples into the boat, but that His disciples had gone away alone. 23There came other small boats from Tiberias near to the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. 24So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor His disciples, they themselves got into the small boats, and came to Capernaum seeking Jesus. 25When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “Rabbi, when did You get here?”

Reflection on John 6:15–25:
The crowd’s desire to crown Jesus as king reveals a common human error—we want God to fulfill our vision of salvation, not His. They saw Him as a solution to their earthly problems but missed the deeper spiritual rescue He came to provide. Instead of seizing the moment for fame, Yeshua withdrew to be alone with the Father. He was never swayed by popular opinion.

As for the disciples, they were doing what Yeshua told them to do—crossing to the other side—but found themselves in difficulty. It’s a powerful reminder that obedience doesn’t guarantee ease. In fact, it often brings us directly into situations where we must depend on Him more deeply.

When Jesus appeared walking on the sea, it frightened them. It’s ironic how the presence of the One who brings peace can initially scare us when we don’t recognize Him in the storm. But His words calm them: “It is I; do not be afraid.” These same words still speak today. Whatever you’re facing, He is present, and He has authority over every storm.

Notice also how the disciples willingly received Him into the boat—and then, immediately, they reached their destination. The presence of Yeshua not only brings peace but also progress. When He is in control, we are not adrift.

The crowd, confused by His sudden disappearance, pursues Him to the other side. Their pursuit shows spiritual hunger, but it will soon be tested—will they seek Him for who He is or for what He can give?

Application:
We must follow Yeshua for who He truly is, not for what we want Him to do for us. When life’s storms rise, don’t assume you are abandoned. He often comes in ways we do not expect, but He always comes with peace and power. Be willing to receive Him, even when His presence challenges your assumptions or disrupts your plans. And let His nearness be your comfort in every trial.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Yeshua, help me to recognize You even when life feels chaotic. Teach me to trust You in the storm and not to fear when things don’t go according to my plans. Thank You for Your constant presence and Your calming voice. I receive You into every part of my life, knowing You will lead me safely to where You want me to be. In Your holy name I pray, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Prophecy, Prophecy, Through Prophets

The Coming King and the Promise of Peace (Zechariah 9)

How humbling that our victorious King comes not on a warhorse, but on a donkey.

Key Verse:
“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is righteous and endowed with salvation, humble, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” —Zechariah 9:9 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 9 opens with prophetic declarations of judgment against Israel’s enemies and transitions into a triumphant promise for God’s people. In verse 9, we see one of the clearest Old Testament prophecies fulfilled by Yeshua in the New Testament—His humble entry into Jerusalem on a donkey (Matthew 21:5). This chapter contrasts worldly power with the righteousness and humility of our true King, who brings not just political peace, but eternal salvation.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 9

Prophecies against Neighboring Nations

      1The burden of the word of the LORD is against the land of Hadrach, with Damascus as its resting place (for the eyes of men, especially of all the tribes of Israel, are toward the LORD),

      2And Hamath also, which borders on it;
Tyre and Sidon, though they are very wise.

      3For Tyre built herself a fortress
And piled up silver like dust,
And gold like the mire of the streets.

      4Behold, the Lord will dispossess her
And cast her wealth into the sea;
And she will be consumed with fire.

      5Ashkelon will see it and be afraid.
Gaza too will writhe in great pain;
Also Ekron, for her expectation has been confounded.
Moreover, the king will perish from Gaza,
And Ashkelon will not be inhabited.

      6And a mongrel race will dwell in Ashdod,
And I will cut off the pride of the Philistines.

      7And I will remove their blood from their mouth
And their detestable things from between their teeth.
Then they also will be a remnant for our God,
And be like a clan in Judah,
And Ekron like a Jebusite.

      8But I will camp around My house because of an army,
Because of him who passes by and returns;
And no oppressor will pass over them anymore,
For now I have seen with My eyes.

      9Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your king is coming to you;
He is just and endowed with salvation,
Humble, and mounted on a donkey,
Even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

      10I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim
And the horse from Jerusalem;
And the bow of war will be cut off.
And He will speak peace to the nations;
And His dominion will be from sea to sea,
And from the River to the ends of the earth.

Deliverance of Judah and Ephraim

11As for you also, because of the blood of My covenant with you,
I have set your prisoners free from the waterless pit.

      12Return to the stronghold, O prisoners who have the hope;
This very day I am declaring that I will restore double to you.

      13For I will bend Judah as My bow,
I will fill the bow with Ephraim.
And I will stir up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece;
And I will make you like a warrior’s sword.

      14Then the LORD will appear over them,
And His arrow will go forth like lightning;
And the Lord GOD will blow the trumpet,
And will march in the storm winds of the south.

      15The LORD of hosts will defend them.
And they will devour and trample on the sling stones;
And they will drink and be boisterous as with wine;
And they will be filled like a sacrificial basin,
Drenched like the corners of the altar.

      16And the LORD their God will save them in that day
As the flock of His people;
For they are as the stones of a crown,
Sparkling in His land.

      17For what comeliness and beauty will be theirs!
Grain will make the young men flourish, and new wine the virgins.

Reflection on Zechariah 9:
Zechariah’s prophecy captures both the majesty and the meekness of the Messiah. Unlike earthly kings who dominate by force, Yeshua comes clothed in humility. His arrival on a donkey signified not weakness, but fulfillment—He was the Prince of Peace entering to bring a different kind of victory.

Verse 10 promises that this King will bring peace to the nations and rule from sea to sea. This is no local ruler—this is the King of kings. His reign is not marked by oppression, but by release. He sets prisoners free (v. 11), and He offers hope to those in despair (v. 12), calling them “prisoners of hope.”

What a powerful phrase—prisoners of hope. It means that even when our circumstances seem to confine us, we are still held by the promise of what God will do. This is not blind optimism. It’s anchored expectation in a King who is faithful.

The chapter ends with assurance that the LORD will protect and exalt His people. He doesn’t just rescue—He restores with abundance. The blessings of grain and new wine symbolize joy, provision, and celebration. Our King is not just victorious in battle; He is generous in peace.

Application:
Have you embraced the humble, saving King? Let His example reshape how you lead, serve, and love. Are you clinging to hope, even when life feels confined or uncertain? Remember that you are a prisoner of hope, not despair. Let this prophecy fuel your trust in Yeshua, who has already come in meekness and will come again in glory.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending us a King unlike any other—righteous, humble, and full of salvation. Teach us to walk in His ways. May we be marked by the peace and hope that only He can give. Let us trust in His victory and remain anchored as prisoners of hope until He comes again. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Seeking God, Teachable

The Testimonies That Point to Yeshua (John 5:31-47)

How many witnesses must testify before we will believe?

Key Verse:
“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” —John 5:39 (NASB)

Background Context:
In this passage, Yeshua responds to the accusations from the Jewish leaders who were offended at His claim to equality with God. He does not merely ask them to take His word for it. Instead, He lays out a compelling case with multiple witnesses: John the Baptist, His own miraculous works, the voice of the Father, and the Scriptures themselves. Despite all of this, many still refuse to believe. Yeshua also confronts their misplaced confidence in Moses—pointing out that Moses, whom they claim to follow, wrote about Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 5:31-47

     31“If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true. 32“There is another who testifies of Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true.

Witness of John

      33“You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth. 34“But the testimony which I receive is not from man, but I say these things so that you may be saved. 35“He was the lamp that was burning and was shining and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.

Witness of Works

      36“But the testimony which I have is greater than the testimony of John; for the works which the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works that I do—testify about Me, that the Father has sent Me.

Witness of the Father

      37“And the Father who sent Me, He has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His form. 38“You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe Him whom He sent.

Witness of the Scripture

      39“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; 40and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life. 41“I do not receive glory from men; 42but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves. 43“I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him. 44“How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God? 45“Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; the one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have set your hope. 46“For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, for he wrote about Me. 47“But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

Reflection on John 5:31–47:
Yeshua provides a courtroom-like argument in this passage. He acknowledges that self-testimony isn’t enough under the law, so He brings forward multiple witnesses:

  • John the Baptist, a prophet they respected, testified of Him.

  • His works, the miracles and healings, openly confirmed that the Father had sent Him.

  • The Father Himself, through signs and words, affirmed Yeshua’s identity.

  • The Scriptures, especially the writings of Moses, point directly to Him.

The tragedy, however, is not a lack of evidence. The real issue is the condition of their hearts. He tells them, “You do not have the love of God in yourselves.” They search the Scriptures with diligence but miss the very One to whom the Scriptures point.

It’s a cautionary message for us today as well. We can know Scripture well and still miss the heart of it if we are unwilling to come to Yeshua in faith and submission. He challenges our desire for human recognition—saying they sought the approval of men more than the glory that comes from God. When we prioritize cultural affirmation or peer acceptance over divine truth, we can become blind to the testimony right in front of us.

Yeshua’s final statement is piercing: “If you believed Moses, you would believe Me.” Many who claim to follow the Old Testament fail to see how it all points to Yeshua. And many who follow the New Testament reject the importance of Moses’ writings. But Yeshua connects them together. Believing in Him means believing what Moses wrote—and vice versa.

Application:
Ask yourself: am I willing to believe Yeshua—not just intellectually, but with full surrender? Are there areas of my life where I am still seeking approval from people more than from God? Do I read Scripture only for knowledge, or to truly encounter and obey the One it reveals? Don’t miss the many testimonies pointing to Him—Scripture, miracles, history, and the Spirit—all drawing us to respond.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the clear testimony You’ve given about Your Son. Help us to open our hearts to Yeshua and not just our minds. May we seek Your glory above the praise of men, and believe not only His words but also the writings of Moses that point to Him. Let our study of Scripture bring us closer to Your heart and deepen our trust in Your plan. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Justice / Judgment, Obeying God

The Voice That Awakens the Dead (John 5:25-32)

One day, everyone will hear the voice of Yeshua—some to eternal life, others to judgment. The choice we make now determines which resurrection we experience.

Key Verse:
“Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth: those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.” —John 5:28–29 (NASB)

Background Context:
After declaring His unity with the Father and authority to give life and judge, Yeshua continues explaining the weight of His role. In this passage, He introduces the concept of two resurrections—one to life and one to judgment. He emphasizes that this power and judgment are not taken upon Himself independently, but are given by the Father. His will is perfectly aligned with God’s, and His judgments are righteous and just.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 5:25-32

Two Resurrections

      25“Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. 26“For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; 27and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. 28“Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, 29and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.

      30“I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

      31“If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true. 32“There is another who testifies of Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true.

Reflection on John 5:25–32:
These verses are sobering. Yeshua tells us plainly that a day is coming when all who have died will hear His voice. This is not symbolic—it is a future reality. Every person will be raised, and there will be a final separation: some to life, others to judgment.

What determines the difference? Scripture is consistent—those who believe, repent, and walk in obedience to God are the ones who receive eternal life. Those who reject Him and live for self will face eternal separation. It’s not about earning salvation by works, but rather the fruit that comes from genuine faith. As James 2:17 says, “faith without works is dead.”

Yeshua also reinforces that He judges not by His own initiative, but as One completely aligned with the will of the Father. He is not a rogue figure with His own agenda; He is the appointed Judge who brings divine justice with perfect knowledge and authority.

This passage invites each of us to reflect on our own lives. Do our actions reflect belief? Are we walking in repentance and obedience, or merely claiming belief while remaining in sin? It also calls us to urgency—we will all hear His voice in the end, but how we respond now determines what happens when we do.

Application:
Take time today to examine your walk with Yeshua. Are you truly living in a way that reflects your belief in Him? Do your deeds match the faith you profess? Let the reality of resurrection—either to life or judgment—motivate you to walk in holiness and to lovingly share the gospel with others while there is still time.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the life and authority You have given Your Son. Help us to live with eternal perspective, knowing that one day we will all stand before Yeshua. Let our faith be more than words—let it be demonstrated in how we live, love, and obey. Keep our hearts tender and ready, that we may rise to the resurrection of life. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Father / Yahweh, Jesus Christ / Yeshua

He Who Hears and Believes Has Life (John 5:18-24)

True belief is not passive acknowledgment—it is hearing and honoring both the Father and the Son through active faith.

Key Verse:
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.” —John 5:24 (NASB)

Background Context:
This passage follows the healing of a man at the pool of Bethesda, which Yeshua performed on the Sabbath. The religious leaders responded not with praise, but with hostility—accusing Him of breaking the Sabbath and blasphemy for calling God His own Father. Yeshua’s response is deeply theological and unequivocal: He is equal with God and acts in perfect unity with the Father. This moment is not just about healing or the Sabbath—it is a bold declaration of divine authority, unity with God, and the promise of eternal life to all who believe.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 5:18-24

Jesus’ Equality with God

      18For this reason therefore the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He not only was breaking the Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.

      19Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. 20“For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel. 21“For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes. 22“For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son, 23so that all will honor the Son even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.

      24“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

Reflection on John 5:18–24:
In these verses, Yeshua makes one of the most direct claims to His divine nature: He does only what the Father does. The Son gives life. The Son executes judgment. The Son is to be honored just as the Father is. And He makes a powerful promise—those who hear His words and believe the One who sent Him are given eternal life.

Belief, in this sense, is not merely intellectual agreement. As we’ve noted before, even the demons believe and tremble (James 2:19). What Yeshua is describing here is a belief that includes hearing, honoring, submitting, and trusting. It is a belief that brings transformation, moving a person from death to life, from judgment to redemption.

Yeshua’s words also confront the notion that we can honor the Father while ignoring or rejecting the Son. “He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.” This is a clear and uncompromising truth that must shape how we live, how we witness, and how we worship. To truly honor God is to honor His Son with our lives, our obedience, and our faith.

Application:
Ask yourself: Do I truly hear His words and respond in faith and obedience? Am I honoring the Son in the way I live, speak, and serve? This passage reminds us not only of Yeshua’s divinity and authority, but also of His offer of life. Eternal life begins not at death, but at the moment of true belief. Let that truth anchor your faith and ignite your desire to walk closely with Him today.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Your Son, who has made You known and opened the way for us to pass from death into life. Help us to truly hear His words and believe—not just in thought, but through obedience and faithfulness. May we honor the Son as we honor You, and may our lives reflect the transformation that comes through believing in Him. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Submitted / Servant, Visions

The Crown and the Branch (Zechariah 6)

God is not finished with His people—He is building His temple, and Yeshua is both King and High Priest.

Key Verse:
“It is He who will build the temple of the Lord, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.” —Zechariah 6:13 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 6 concludes the prophet’s visions with a powerful image: four chariots emerging between two bronze mountains, representing God’s judgment being carried out over the whole earth. The vision reminds us that God is sovereign and active in bringing justice and order to the nations.

But the chapter’s second part turns to a prophetic moment of hope. Joshua the high priest is crowned, not as a political king, but as a symbol of “the Branch” — a Messianic title pointing directly to Yeshua. This Branch will build the temple of the Lord, not a physical one made by human hands, but a spiritual temple made of living stones—His people. Yeshua will serve as both King and High Priest, roles previously divided under the old covenant.

This dual role is significant. As King, Yeshua rules in righteousness; as High Priest, He intercedes for us before the Father. In Him, justice and mercy meet.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 6

The Four Chariots

      1Now I lifted up my eyes again and looked, and behold, four chariots were coming forth from between the two mountains; and the mountains were bronze mountains. 2With the first chariot were red horses, with the second chariot black horses, 3with the third chariot white horses, and with the fourth chariot strong dappled horses. 4Then I spoke and said to the angel who was speaking with me, “What are these, my lord?” 5The angel replied to me, “These are the four spirits of heaven, going forth after standing before the Lord of all the earth, 6with one of which the black horses are going forth to the north country; and the white ones go forth after them, while the dappled ones go forth to the south country. 7“When the strong ones went out, they were eager to go to patrol the earth.” And He said, “Go, patrol the earth.” So they patrolled the earth. 8Then He cried out to me and spoke to me saying, “See, those who are going to the land of the north have appeased My wrath in the land of the north.”

      9The word of the LORD also came to me, saying, 10“Take an offering from the exiles, from Heldai, Tobijah and Jedaiah; and you go the same day and enter the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah, where they have arrived from Babylon.

The Symbolic Crowns

      11“Take silver and gold, make an ornate crown and set it on the head of Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest. 12“Then say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Behold, a man whose name is Branch, for He will branch out from where He is; and He will build the temple of the LORD. 13“Yes, it is He who will build the temple of the LORD, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.”’ 14“Now the crown will become a reminder in the temple of the LORD to Helem, Tobijah, Jedaiah and Hen the son of Zephaniah. 15“Those who are far off will come and build the temple of the LORD.” Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you. And it will take place if you completely obey the LORD your God.

Reflection on Zechariah 6:
This chapter gives us a profound glimpse into the identity and mission of the Messiah. He is not just our Savior—He is our King and our High Priest. No one else can unite these roles. His rule is perfect, and His intercession is eternal.

The coronation of Joshua foreshadowed the crowning of Yeshua, who wears many crowns (Revelation 19:12). The message is clear: God is establishing His kingdom, and it is through Yeshua alone that true peace, justice, and restoration come.

Are we letting Yeshua reign fully in our lives—not just as our Redeemer, but as our Ruler? Are we trusting in His ongoing intercession on our behalf?

Application:
Consider the areas of your life where you may still be clinging to control. Submit those areas to Yeshua, not only as your Savior but also as your King. Trust that He is building His temple—including you as part of it—and shaping you into His likeness. Worship Him with awe and reverence, knowing that His priesthood never ends.

Closing Prayer:
Yeshua, You are both my King and my High Priest. I praise You for ruling with justice and interceding with compassion. Help me to submit every part of my life to Your authority and trust in Your ongoing work in me. Use me as a living stone in Your temple and help me reflect Your holiness to the world. In Your name I pray, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Share the Good News

From Testimony to Truth (John 4:39-45)

A personal testimony can open hearts—but it’s encountering Yeshua directly that transforms them forever.

Key Verse:
“It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world.” —John 4:42 (NASB)

Background Context:
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well doesn’t end with her conversation with Yeshua. Transformed by her encounter, she runs back to her city, boldly proclaiming what He revealed to her. Her simple testimony—“He told me all the things that I have done”—is enough to stir curiosity and spark belief among many.

But something deeper happens when the Samaritans hear Yeshua for themselves. They invite Him to stay, and He does—two full days. During that time, many more believe, not just because of the woman’s words, but because they encounter the Word Himself. Her witness brought them to the door, but it was the voice of the Messiah that truly opened their hearts.

Meanwhile, Yeshua travels to Galilee, where He notes that “a prophet has no honor in his own country.” The contrast is striking—foreigners welcome Him with openness, while those who should have honored Him often respond with skepticism. Even still, the Galileans, having seen His signs in Jerusalem, receive Him—though it seems their welcome is based more on miracles than on understanding who He really is.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 4:39-45

The Samaritans

      39From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all the things that I have done.” 40So when the Samaritans came to Jesus, they were asking Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. 41Many more believed because of His word; 42and they were saying to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world.”

      43After the two days He went forth from there into Galilee. 44For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things that He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they themselves also went to the feast.

Reflection on John 4:39–45:
This passage shows the power of a changed life and a bold testimony. One woman’s transformation leads to an entire community encountering the Messiah. Never underestimate how your story of redemption—no matter how simple—can draw others to seek Yeshua.

Yet it also reminds us that true belief is not secondhand. People may come to faith through someone else’s testimony, but lasting faith is built on a personal relationship with Yeshua. The Samaritans believed first because of her words, but they stayed and listened to Him, and then they knew He was the Savior.

Notice also the reality of rejection: Jesus, the Son of God, was not honored by His own people. This shows us that acceptance and praise are not always signs of truth being received deeply. And rejection is not necessarily a sign that we’ve failed in our witness. If they rejected the perfect One, we shouldn’t be surprised when some reject us too.

Application:
Are you sharing your testimony with others—even if it feels simple? Are you encouraging those around you not just to hear about Jesus but to seek Him personally?

Don’t be discouraged if others reject the message at first. Keep planting seeds. And make sure your own faith rests not only on what others have said but on what you have experienced in relationship with Yeshua yourself.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the power of a transformed life and the boldness to share what You’ve done. Help me to speak truthfully and clearly about my testimony, pointing others to Your Son. May those who hear not stop at my words but go on to hear Your voice and follow You. Strengthen my faith as I listen to You daily, and help me never grow weary of proclaiming the hope found in Yeshua. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.