The Acts Church: A Spirit-Led Model for Today’s Believers (Edited 1/2/2026)

Edited 1/2/2026

I have been thinking about this post. I am getting lazy and have been looking for AI to create my final post, correct my mistakes, and make it look pretty, but I am noticing that it is taking me away from my original thoughts. 

Back to my original thoughts: 

I think we can glean important concepts from the Acts church that we can use in our communities, but I think some things should be different. 

When the Acts church started, it consisted of the apostles and followers of Jesus during his public ministry of about three to three and a half years. They heard his teachings, saw with their own eyes' the miracles he performed. They were all witnesses to the prophecies, verifying that he WAS/IS the Messiah. They were, in essence, all in the kingdom of God, Father God's kingdom. 

We no longer have these people with us, but their stories were passed on in writings and by word of mouth. The Bible is a collection of sacred texts for Christianity and Judaism. The original texts no longer exist. Archaeologists keep finding new things that gets us closer to the originals. Every text found has to be deciphered, and man's interpretations may not always be correct. I no longer like Christian religions. There are thousands of different denominations with differing interpretations of scripture. I am not saying to forsake gathering with others. We all need fellowship and community. But all should be in Father God's kingdom, being as one with each other, Jesus, and Father God.

Being in the Kingdom of God is the only way to know what is true. Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the father except through me." (John 14:6

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I have been thinking a lot about the Acts church in the Bible. Could we do something like that in today's world, in the communities we live in?

The Acts Church: A Spirit-Led Model for Today’s Believers

1. Spirit-Filled and United

After Pentecost (Acts 2), the outpouring of the Holy Spirit wasn’t just a moment of empowerment — it was a divine recalibration of community. Believers were knit together in supernatural unity, transcending personal agendas and cultural divides.

• “Of one heart and soul” (Acts 4:32) wasn’t just poetic — it was a lived reality of shared mission and mutual love.

• Their unity was rooted not in uniformity, but in shared surrender to Christ.

• Today, this challenges us to ask: Are we united by the Spirit or divided by preference?

2. Devoted to the Apostles’ Teaching -- Edited 1/2/2026: I don't agree with this philosophy of being devoted to someone's teachings in todays' times. Enter Father God's kingdom and get the true teachings from the source.

Acts 2:42 highlights a rhythm of devotion — not casual interest, but intentional immersion.

• The apostles’ teaching centered on Jesus as Messiah, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the call to repentance and new life.

• This wasn’t just theological — it was transformational. Their worldview shifted from law to grace, from temple to indwelling Spirit.

• In our time, devotion to sound teaching guards against false doctrine and fuels spiritual maturity.

3. Sharing and Caring for One Another

Acts 2:44–45 and 4:34 reveal a radical generosity that defied economic norms.

• Their giving wasn’t transactional — it was sacrificial and Spirit-led.

• They didn’t just meet needs; they dismantled poverty within their community.

• This models a theology of stewardship: trusting God enough to release resources for the good of others.

4. Worship and Fellowship

Their worship was both vertical (praising God) and horizontal (breaking bread together).

• Communion was not only remembrance but reaffirmation — a shared identity in Christ.

• “Glad and sincere hearts” (Acts 2:46–47) reflect joy that flowed from grace, not circumstance.

• Fellowship wasn’t an event — it was a lifestyle of presence, vulnerability, and celebration.

5. Evangelistic and Mission-Oriented

Evangelism wasn’t a program — it was the natural overflow of transformed lives.

• The gospel spread organically and intentionally, through testimony and sending.

• Acts 2:47 shows that salvation was a daily reality, not a rare occurrence.

• The church didn’t wait for people to come — they went out, crossing borders and barriers.

6. Diverse but Equal

The inclusion of Gentiles, women, and the marginalized was revolutionary.

• Acts 10 (Peter and Cornelius) marks a theological earthquake: God shows no partiality.

• This wasn’t just social reform — it was divine revelation.

• The early church embodied Galatians 3:28 before it was written: “There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

7. Guided by Prayer and the Holy Spirit

Prayer wasn’t a ritual — it was their operating system.

• Acts 13:2–3 shows that decisions were birthed in worship and fasting, not strategy alone.

• The Spirit’s guidance was active, specific, and trusted.

• This invites today’s church to return to dependence — not on charisma or planning, but on divine direction.

Final Reflection:

The Acts community was:

A Spirit-empowered, Christ-centered, radically generous, and mission-driven fellowship — diverse in background, united in purpose, and devoted to truth, worship, and one another.

How do we know we are listening to the Right LORD?

 

How Can You Know You're Listening to the Right Lord?

As I reflect on this question, it becomes clear that true discernment begins with being part of God's kingdom. According to John 17:2, entrance into that kingdom comes through eternal life—a gift given by Jesus Christ.

But what is eternal life? Jesus defines it in John 17:3: it is the sure and intimate knowledge of the Father, the one true God, and of Jesus Christ, whom the Father sent. This isn't just intellectual assent; it's relational certainty.

So how can you know you're in the kingdom of God—and thus listening to the right Lord? Your life will reflect the character and example of Jesus. The way He lived on earth becomes the blueprint for those who truly follow Him. His compassion, truth, humility, and obedience to the Father are not just admirable traits—they're signs of kingdom citizenship.

Lead Us to the Way

Lately, I’ve been reflecting deeply on the state of our United States of America. Under the leadership of Donald J. Trump, I fear we are drifting away from the democratic ideals enshrined in our Constitution and inching toward an autocracy—one increasingly shaped by the will of a single man.

I keep asking myself: Is there anything we can do to halt this progression—or at least slow it down? One word keeps rising to the surface: prayer.

Prayer is powerful. What if we began praying—not just for ourselves, but for one another? For our leaders, even those who seem to be leading us down dark and uncertain paths. For people across the globe, especially those caught in the devastation of war. What if we prayed without ceasing?

Jesus said:

John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Let us pray that we all find the way—the truth about ourselves that leads to repentance and ultimately to eternal life. Imagine what eternal life truly means: freedom from sin, entrance into God’s kingdom, and the peace that surpasses understanding.

John 17:2–3 (NIV) “For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

May we be led to the Way. May we know the truth. And may we live in the light of eternal peace.

Eternal Life

🌿 Eternal Life: Beyond Time and Into God's Kingdom

What Is Eternal Life?

I’ve often wondered why the Bible calls it eternal life. Jesus defines it in John 17:3 as knowing the Father, the one true God, and Jesus Christ, whom He sent. In the original Greek, the word translated “know” is ginosko—meaning to know absolutely, to be sure, to understand deeply.

So, what is eternal life? Is it simply living forever, or is it the fullness of knowing God? That question has lingered in my heart.

Time and the Human Condition

This morning, I was talking with my wife, and she offered a profound insight: it has to do with time. We live in a world governed by time. We’re born, we live for a finite span, and then we die. But in God’s realm, time doesn’t exist. He always was, and He always will be.

Because of sin, God set a limit on human life. Today, 120 years seems to be the outer boundary—a reflection, perhaps, of the declaration in Genesis 6:3. But this limit is not imposed on God. He exists outside of time, and His kingdom is timeless.

The Sons of God and the Nephilim

Genesis 6 introduces a mysterious and troubling moment: angels who separated themselves from Father God and took human wives. Their offspring—the Nephilim—were corrupt and violent. These beings may well be the origin of the gods in Greek mythology.

God instructed Noah to build the ark, a task that may have taken up to 120 years. During that time, warnings were given. The people were told of the coming flood, but they didn’t believe and refused to change. Eventually, judgment came. The flood destroyed everything except Noah, his family, and the creatures aboard the ark.

The Rise of Evil Spirits

I believe this is where evil spirits entered the world. When the Nephilim died, their spirits remained—disembodied and restless. They wander the earth, seeking human hosts to inhabit and possess. Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus and His disciples casting out these spirits, confronting their influence directly.

Returning to Eternal Life

In God’s kingdom, there are no time constraints. Eternal life is not just endless existence—it’s entrance into God’s timeless realm. It’s communion with the Father, through the Son.

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6 (NIV)

“For you granted him [Jesus] authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” — John 17:2–3 (NIV)

The Kingdom Within Reach

Jesus came not only to save us, but to teach us about the kingdom of heaven—Father God’s kingdom. Though He is no longer physically present on earth, He continues to teach us through the Helper, the Holy Spirit.

Eternal life is not just a future promise—it’s a present reality for those who know God. It’s stepping out of time and into truth. It’s living in the fullness of divine relationship.

🛐 Reflection and Prayer

Reflection Question: Are you living with an awareness of eternity today? How does knowing God reshape your understanding of time and purpose?

Prayer: Father God, thank You for the gift of eternal life—not just as a promise of forever, but as a present invitation to know You deeply. Help me to live beyond the limits of time, anchored in Your truth and guided by Your Spirit. Teach me to walk in Your kingdom now, with eyes fixed on what is eternal. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Why the Gospel of John Is Essential to Study (Yochanan 1 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

Why the Gospel of John Matters Most (Yochanan 1 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

Introduction

The Gospel of John may be the most important book in the Bible to read and study. Its unique perspective, deep spiritual truths, and eyewitness testimony make it essential for anyone seeking to understand Jesus more fully.

John: The Beloved Disciple

• John, the apostle, is widely believed to be the author.

• He was among the first disciples Jesus called, alongside his brother James.

• John was an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry, miracles, and glory.

• He was one of the three chosen to witness the transfiguration (Luke 9:28–36) (Lukas 9:28-36 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• Known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” John stood at the cross with Mary, Jesus’ mother.

Jesus Entrusts Mary to John

When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. (John 19:26–27, NIV) (Yochanan 19:26-27 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

This moment shows the depth of trust and love between Jesus and John.

Witness to the Resurrection

• John was among the first to see the empty tomb.

• He encountered the risen Christ during the forty days before the ascension.

• Imagine the conversations between John and Mary, living together for many years—the mother of Jesus and the disciple Jesus loved, sharing memories and truths only they could know.

Hidden Truths in John’s Gospel

The Gospel of John contains profound insights that reflect John’s unique closeness to Jesus. One of the most powerful passages is John 17 (Yochanan 17Orthodox Jewish Bible), often called the High Priestly Prayer.

Key Themes in John 17

• Eternal Life Defined:

  “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3, NIV) (Yochanan 17:3 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• Unity of Believers: Jesus prays that His followers may be one, just as He and the Father are one.

• Sanctification in Truth: “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17) (Yochanan 17:17 Orthodox Jewish Bible)

• Sharing in Glory: Jesus desires that His followers see His glory and share in His love.

This prayer reveals Jesus’ mission—not only to glorify the Father but to draw us into eternal life, love, and unity with Him.

Conclusion

The Gospel of John is more than history—it is a window into the heart of Christ. Through John’s testimony, we see Jesus as the eternal Word, the Son of God, and the Savior who invites us into fellowship with Him. Studying this Gospel is an invitation to deeper faith, greater unity, and eternal life.

Why Would God Want to Help Us?

Posted July 7, 2025

Why Would God Want to Help Us?

A Nation in Mourning

Over the July 4th holiday, devastating flooding swept through the Texas Hill Country. More than 100 people have lost their lives—many of them children. Dozens are still missing. The sorrow is almost too much to bear.

And so, the familiar question arises:

“Why did God let this happen?”

A Harder Question

But maybe we need to ask a deeper question:

“What do we expect from God when we disregard the world He entrusted to us?”

For decades, scientists have sounded the alarm that human activity—especially the burning of fossil fuels—is disrupting Earth’s climate. Many in power still resist change. Comfort outweighs conscience. Short-term gain silences long-term wisdom.

So again: Why would God want to help us if we refuse to help ourselves?

Scripture and Stewardship

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” — Psalm 24:1 (NIV)

God gave humanity dominion (Genesis 1:28), not for exploitation, but stewardship. We were entrusted with creation. But when dominion becomes domination, suffering often follows.

When the Earth Took a Breath

During the early months of COVID-19 lockdowns, the planet responded to humanity’s pause:

• Cleaner air in cities like Los Angeles and New Delhi
• Historic drop in CO₂ emissions
• Wildlife sightings in long-developed areas
• Clearer waters and quieter urban environments

It was as if creation exhaled—a temporary sabbath from human disruption. But the moment was fleeting. We quickly returned to old patterns.

The Red Warning of Mars

Other nations are pressing toward clean energy. The U.S., in contrast, continues to reverse key environmental protections. And that brings Mars to mind. Scientists believe it may once have resembled Earth. Today, its atmosphere is composed of 95.3% carbon dioxide.

Is that a warning written in red dust?

So Why Does God Still Help?

“Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness… not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” — Romans 2:4 (NIV)

God is patient. In His mercy, He gives us:

• Wisdom to change course
• Prophetic voices that sound the alarm
• Glimpses of hope—like the Earth's healing breath during COVID

What we need now is repentance—not just spiritual, but ecological.

God hasn’t abandoned us.
Maybe He’s waiting for us to become the stewards we were created to be.

Continue exploring the Unity Series:

Becoming One | The Promise and the Land | Mercy Thayest Awakens

Is He Worthy

Every now and then, a song comes along that stops you in your tracks — not because it’s loud or dramatic, but because it carries a kind of quiet truth that settles into the heart. During Easter, I came across a beautiful cover of “Is He Worthy?” by Lifein3D, one of my favorite singing groups. Their harmonies are gentle, sincere, and full of reverence.

In a world that often feels heavy, this song is a reminder that hope is not fragile — it is anchored in the One who is worthy of all praise. I wanted to share it here for anyone who needs a moment of peace today.

▶ He Is Worthy — Easter Cover by Lifein3D

Children Not Like the Others

Seeing Beyond the Surface: Autism, Telepathy, and Faith

My wife and I recently watched a thought‑provoking documentary on YouTube titled “Autism, Telepathy, and Faith | Katie Asher.” It tells the story of Katie Asher’s son, Houston, who developed a form of autism that left him nonverbal and with limited motor function. Doctors essentially gave up hope that he would ever function in society. Many who interacted with Houston dismissed him—assuming he couldn’t engage in the same activities as other children.

But then something miraculous happened.

Houston did something that awakened a deep conviction in his mother: there was far more going on inside her son than anyone realized. Determined to reach him, Katie searched for ways to communicate—and what she uncovered was extraordinary. Houston demonstrated profound inner awareness. He could read people’s thoughts, converse with Yeshua (Jesus) and angels, grasp complex scientific concepts, and navigate the spiritual realm in ways few could imagine.

Hidden Genius and the Power of Belief

As I reflected on Houston’s story, I couldn’t help but think of Stephen Hawking. Though bound by a debilitating disease, his intellect was undeniable—and because society recognized his genius, people developed technology to help him communicate. That technology enabled him to lecture, teach, and inspire millions.

It makes me wonder: how many others—like Houston—have been quietly overlooked simply because they can’t express themselves in traditional ways? What gifts might we discover if we applied that same innovation and belief to those the world has written off?

The Heart: More Than a Pump

This story also reminded me of a post I wrote titled “The Heart – It’s Not Just a Pump.” The Bible speaks often about the heart, and science is beginning to confirm what Scripture has long revealed: the heart is an amazing organ that communicates in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Our hearts can resonate with one another—spiritually, emotionally, and even energetically.

Living Water and the Mystery of God

Another post that came to mind is “Living Water – Water of Life – Life‑Giving Water.” There is so much of God’s creation that we have yet to discover. From the mysteries of the human heart to the unseen dimensions of spirit, His wisdom and power extend far beyond what we can comprehend.

Houston’s story reminds us that God’s image is not limited by human perception. His Spirit moves in ways that defy explanation, revealing glimpses of His kingdom through lives that challenge our assumptions. When we look beyond the surface, we begin to see the divine fingerprints everywhere—in the heart, in creation, and even in those the world has overlooked.

Created in God’s Image: Rethinking How We See Women

Rethinking How We See Women in Light of God’s Original Design

From the beginning, Scripture reveals that both man and woman were created in the image of God—equal in worth, purpose, and spiritual capacity. Yet history has often distorted that truth. This reflection explores the creation story, the divine balance between male and female, and how rediscovering God’s design can restore dignity, harmony, and love to human relationships.

Created in God’s Image: Rethinking How We See Women

This may seem like an unusual topic, but it’s been on my heart lately. Women have been mistreated for eons—often reduced to possessions, objects of desire, or laborers expected to serve men’s needs. History is full of examples of exploitation and inequality. Yet I don’t believe Father God ever intended it to be this way.

The Creation Story and God’s Design

In the creation story, God first forms man from the dust of the ground and breathes into his nostrils the breath of life. Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden to tend it and is given the command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Then comes a pivotal moment:

“It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” — Genesis 2:18 (ESV)

God brings all the animals to Adam to see what he would name them, but none are suitable as a counterpart. Then God causes Adam to fall into a deep sleep, takes one of his ribs, and fashions the woman—Eve. Adam recognizes her immediately and says:

“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.”

This story reveals companionship, complementarity, and shared origin—the foundation for human relationships. It also complements Genesis 1, where male and female are created together in God’s image, showing unity rather than hierarchy.

Male and Female in God’s Image

Genesis 1:26–28 (NIV) declares:

“Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness…” “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

Notice the plural: “Let us make mankind in our image.” I believe this points to Father God and His Son, Yeshua, present together at creation. Yet something intriguing emerges—both are described as male, and still, a female is created in their image. What does that tell us about the fullness of God’s nature?

The Eternal Perspective

Yeshua Himself spoke of a reality beyond earthly distinctions:

“When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.” — Mark 12:25 (NIV)

And Paul echoes this spiritual equality:

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28 (NIV)

In the kingdom of God, identity transcends gender, status, and nationality. We are one in Christ—equal in worth, purpose, and love.

Energy, Unity, and Divine Harmony

I was reminded of The Celestine Prophecy, which suggests that people can “steal” energy from one another when they’re not spiritually grounded. Relationships thrive when both individuals draw life from the divine source rather than from each other.

Scripture offers a deeper truth. In Ephesians 5:21–33, unity in marriage is built on mutual love and submission out of reverence for Christ. The husband is called to love his wife “as Christ loved the church”, and the wife is invited to respond with respect and partnership. This is not about control—it’s about covenantal unity, two becoming “one flesh” under God’s design.

In Summary

• The Celestine view: Harmony comes from individual energy alignment.

• The biblical view: Harmony comes from self‑giving love and shared purpose under God’s authority.

Both point toward balance, but Scripture roots that balance in divine relationship rather than self‑protection.

A Call to Honor

Women were never meant to be possessions or subordinates. They were created as image‑bearers of God—equal in dignity, purpose, and spiritual capacity. When we honor that truth, we reflect the Creator’s heart more fully.

Satan temps, Father God does not

I was thinking about something this morning that goes along with my last post 'Test the Spirits'.

Satan temps us to sin and do evil. I was thinking about the 'Lord's prayer ' where it says "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil" and I wanted a deeper meaning of this so I went into ChatGPT to find out what it had say.  I thought it said it very well so here it is. 

The phrase "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" from the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13) is deeply meaningful, and Christians have reflected on it for centuries. Here's a breakdown of its deeper significance:

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"Lead us not into temptation"

This line can sound confusing at first—why would God lead anyone into temptation? But it’s important to know that in the original Greek, the word for temptation (πειρασμός, peirasmos) can mean both "temptation" and "testing" or "trial."

So this phrase can be understood as:

• A request for protection from trials that might overwhelm us, that is, “Don’t allow us to be tested beyond what we can bear.”
• A humble admission of weakness, acknowledging that we’re vulnerable and could fall if faced with temptation.

It doesn’t suggest that God tempts us (James 1:13 clearly says He doesn’t), but rather that we’re asking God not to allow us to be placed in situations where we might fail.

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"But deliver us from evil"

This part is a prayer for rescue and protection:

• The word "evil" can also be translated as “the evil one,” referring to Satan, the adversary.
• It’s a plea to be freed from the power of sin, darkness, and spiritual harm.
• It’s also a call for God’s ongoing help to walk in righteousness, not just avoidance of sin, but deliverance into life and light.

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Together, the phrase is a cry for God's protection:

"Father, don’t let me be overwhelmed by trials or temptations. Keep me safe from the power of sin and evil, and lead me in Your ways."

It reflects a spirit of dependence, humility, and trust, recognizing our need for God’s help in our daily spiritual battle.

Definition of temps:

The phrase "he temps me" means that someone is presented with something or someone attractive or desirable, and they feel a strong inclination to want or do something, even if it goes against their better judgment or goals. 

"To tempt" means to draw or entice someone, often towards something they shouldn't or something unwise or harmful. The desire for this tempting thing or action can be very strong, potentially leading to negative consequences. 

So, if someone says "he temps me," the person is saying that the actions, words, or presence of another person makes them want something or behave in a way they are trying to avoid. For example, someone on a diet might say, "He temps me with that delicious-looking dessert!" meaning that the dessert he offers makes them want to break their diet.

Test The Spirits

Test The Spirits

Jesus frequently warned about false teachers and prophets, cautioning his followers to be discerning. Here are some key scriptures:

Matthew 7:15 – "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves."

Matthew 24:24 – "For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect."

Luke 6:26 – "Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets."

2 Peter 2:1 – "They will secretly introduce destructive heresies—even denying the Master who bought them."

1 John 4:1 – "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."

Recognizing false teachings requires discernment and a strong foundation in biblical truth. Here are some key ways to identify them:

1. Distorted Scripture – False teachers often twist or misinterpret biblical passages to fit their own agenda rather than staying true to the intended meaning.
2. Appeal to Emotion Over Truth – They may prioritize emotional experiences or personal revelations over sound doctrine.
3. Self-Promotion – Instead of pointing people to Christ, false teachers often seek personal fame, wealth, or influence.
4. Contradicting Core Christian Beliefs – They may deny essential doctrines such as the divinity of Christ, salvation through grace, or the authority of Scripture
5. Encouraging Sin or Compromise – Rather than calling people to repentance, they may justify sinful behavior or water down biblical standards.
6. Lack of Accountability – They often resist correction and operate outside of biblical community and oversight.

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I've been thinking about something lately. Throughout time Lucifer, AKA Satan, the Devil, has tried to thwart Father God's plans of salvation and bringing all things back into himself; God becoming all in all. 

I have often wondered what happened in heaven. Why did Lucifer and the other angels fall away from Father God? 

Satan has always wanted to be like Father God. He tries to deceive people in ways to turn them away from Father God and to put roadblocks in God's plans. I kind of think there may be two main reasons for him doing it. He wants them to worship him instead of Father God. The second is so he can accuse us to Father God of being no better than himself. Satan is very cunning and often uses scripture to deceive. This is why it is important to not just trust everyone.

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Here is an example.

We often drive by a huge church on 59 North of Houston, Texas. It has a huge gold dome on top. We've noticed that the dome has gone through some changes over the last year or so. They redid the gold dome, and it now has a large gold symbol of some kind on top. 

For a long time, we didn't know what it was because we never saw any signs to identify it. My wife and I kept talking about it every time we drove by so my wife recently decided to do some investigating and found out that it is the Iglesia de La Luz del Mundo (Light of the World Church). There are a number of these large churches in more than 50 countries throughout the world. She found a documentary, and we found out that they have a dark history. 

From Wikipedia:

Controversies and criticism

La Luz del Mundo has been the subject of several controversies. Church leaders have been accused of creating a cult of personality, sexually abusing members, and have been criticized for amassing wealth, living a lavish lifestyle, and attempting to build entire cities. In 2022, the church director and self-proclaimed “Apostle of God” Naasón Joaquín García pled guilty to three charges related to sexually abusing children.[144] In December 2022, HBO and RAINN released an original documentary series titled Unveiled: Surviving La Luz Del Mundo, which tells the story of child sexual abuse within the church.[145]

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In these churches of deception, they use scriptures to manipulate the people so that they can get what they want. I thought about how the Devil tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness. He used scriptures and he offered him power, riches, control over all the nations. (Luke 4:1-13)

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Some things I have noticed with these churches of deception: Not only in churches but in governments. 

• The leaders are said to be chosen by god.
• This may be true, but I do not think it is by the one true God, Father God, the God of gods, the creator of all things.
• Because they are purported to be chosen by god, and people believe it, it makes it difficult to speak out when people have been wronged. This is the case in La Luz del Mundo church. The girls and boys who have been sexually abused feel helpless to say anything. Their own families won't believe them. Suicides are fairly common. 

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In contrast, here are God's ways, his character:

Jeremiah 9:24

New American Standard Bible 1995

24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the Lord.

Christ Jesus, who is One with Father God, gave us examples of this when he was here on earth. All that he did exemplified lovingkindness to people. When Jesus was with his disciples, he demonstrated another example by washing their feet.

 

John 13:12-17

New American Standard Bible 1995

12 So when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

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In God's kingdom, all become One in Christ Jesus, who is One with Father God. The Holy Spirit works to bring the people together, exercising lovingkindness to each other. It is like a marriage feast. 

Never forget Yeshua (Jesus). Never forget Father God. Jesus' great sacrifice for us, his love for us, Father God's love for us, is what made this all possible.

The Kingdom of God

Living in the Kingdom of God Today

I want to talk about Father God’s kingdom—and share my belief that you and I are invited to live in it today.

The Early Church and the Kingdom of God

In the book of Acts, we see the birth of the early church. This first community of believers was shaped by the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) and sustained by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Luke—a physician and close companion of Paul—is traditionally understood to be the author of both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. His careful, detail‑oriented nature made him uniquely suited to record these events with accuracy and insight.

In Acts 1:1–11, Luke describes the risen Jesus speaking with His followers about the kingdom of God. He instructs them to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit. Then, before their eyes, He ascends into heaven—leaving them with the assurance that He will return in the same way.

A Spirit‑Formed Community

The early church was not merely an organization. It was a Spirit‑formed body of believers.

• Their identity was rooted in who Yeshua is and what He accomplished.

• The Holy Spirit—promised by the Father—became their helper, teacher, and source of unity, just as Yeshua prayed in John 17:11: “that they may be one as we are one.”

• Entrance into this community began with repentance and baptism (Acts 2:38–39).

• They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.

• They shared their possessions, lived in unity, and praised God daily (Acts 2:42–47).

Reflecting on Community in My Later Years

Lately, I’ve been reflecting deeply on this picture of the early church—especially as I grow older. Much of my life has been lived independently, relying on my own strength. Family has helped at times, and for larger tasks I’ve hired assistance, though not always with satisfaction.

Now, in my late 70s, I’m more aware than ever of the importance of true community. And despite being in church for most of my life, I don’t believe I’ve ever been part of a fellowship that fully mirrors the Acts church—where the Holy Spirit knits believers together in unity and God’s authority, not human agendas, leads the way.

What Truly Matters in God’s Kingdom

Jeremiah 9:24 reminds us:

“Let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the Lord.

Being part of God’s kingdom is a serious calling. Think about what Yeshua endured on our behalf: the sinless One crucified for us, fulfilling prophecy, rising on the third day, and appearing to many before ascending. All of this was done so we might be forgiven and restored to the Father.

Living Under God’s Rule in Troubling Times

As I look at the troubling direction of the world today, I understand why many people feel anxious about the future. History shows us that societies can drift toward injustice, fear, and oppression. But Scripture also shows us something greater:

In God’s kingdom, fear has no place.

Who is more powerful than God? Who is more faithful than the One who keeps covenant from generation to generation?

When we live under His rule—trusting in His righteousness, justice, and mercy—we can find peace even in uncertain times. His kingdom is not shaken by the rise or fall of earthly powers. His kingdom is present, growing, and open to all who turn to Him.