Salt and Light in the World

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The Metaphor of Salt

Salt, in ancient times, was a valuable commodity. It was used not only for seasoning but also for preserving food. In the context of Matthew 5:13, Jesus refers to His followers as “the salt of the earth,” implying that they are essential to the moral and spiritual preservation of society.

Yet, He also warns that if salt loses its savor, it becomes useless. This metaphor carries a deep spiritual implication: Christians must maintain their integrity and influence. If they fail to do so, they risk becoming ineffective in their mission, akin to salt that has lost its taste.

The Role of Salt in Ancient Culture

Salt’s importance in ancient culture cannot be overstated. It was often used in covenants, symbolizing loyalty and durability. Jesus’ reference to salt underscores the perpetual and binding nature of a believer’s commitment to live righteously and influence the world positively.

Losing Savor: A Spiritual Decline

The notion of salt losing its savor is a metaphor for spiritual decline. When believers fail to live according to the principles of their faith, they lose their distinctiveness. This loss of “flavor” signifies a broader failure to impact the world positively and to uphold the teachings of Jesus.

The Metaphor of Light

In verse 14, Jesus calls His followers “the light of the world.” This metaphor emphasizes visibility, guidance, and the dispelling of darkness. Light is essential for navigation and clarity, symbolizing the enlightening impact of Christian witness in a world often characterized by moral and spiritual obscurity.

A City on a Hill

Jesus further illustrates this point by comparing believers to “a city that is set on a hill.” Such a city is conspicuous, visible from afar, and cannot be hidden. This analogy underscores the public and prominent role that Christians are to play in society. Their actions, values, and beliefs should shine brightly, guiding others towards truth and righteousness.

The Responsibility of Light-Bearers

As bearers of light, Christians have a responsibility to illuminate the path for others. This means living in a way that reflects the teachings of Christ, thus providing moral and spiritual guidance. Their influence should extend beyond personal piety to affect the broader community positively.

Conclusion

Matthew 5:13-14 encapsulates the dual role of believers as both preservative (salt) and illuminative (light) forces in the world. These metaphors call Christians to maintain their distinctiveness and to actively engage in transforming society through their example.

In essence, these verses challenge believers to uphold their faith’s principles, ensuring that their presence in the world is both impactful and enduring. By embodying the qualities of salt and light, Christians fulfill their divine mandate to influence the world positively, guiding it towards moral and spiritual integrity.

This site is dedicated to Encouraging Men and Women to Walk in a Personal Relationship with God. If this article has added value to your life for God, consider subscribing by >>Clicking Here << and joining our YouTube family by >> Subscribing Here <<.

Thank you!

Pastor Fulmer

Scriptural Promise for the Week of February 16 – 22, 2025

God’s Promise of Comfort, Hope, and Spiritual Establishment

We have preserved for us a promise from God that Jesus and the Father offer us more than eternal life. For those who are born again, we have the promise from God of everlasting comfort and hope!

This comfort and hope are meant, not only to keep us from the evil influences of worry and fear, but they are meant to help us be more established in our words and work for God by enjoining to us a stronger sense of faith!

Remember, when you are challenged to give in to worry and fear, there is a God who still establishes faith in the hearts of His people by providing them the comfort, hope, and spiritual establishing that they need!

Scriptural Promise for the Week of February 9 – 15, 2025

God’s Promise of the Lord’s Return

In this week’s promise, God ensures to let us know that there is coming a day of full deliverance from the evils of this world!

While some people may depart this life through the natural means of death, there will be many who are caught up to meet the Lord in the air!

Knowing this next prophetic event is imminent and can happen at any moment, we are promised by God Himself that all who stay faithful to God will be part of this great event!

As we go through this week, remember God’s comforting promise to you that He will return and receive you as a reward for your faithfulness to Him!

A Biblical Journey from the First Garden to the Last

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It is notable in the Bible that there were some important events that took place, and some of the most important events took place in a garden. We’ll look at the connections between three gardens throughout the Bible and how they are part of God’s eternal plan.

The Garden of Eden

Genesis 2:7-9 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. (8) And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. (9) And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

The reason we know that all the evil actions of people are no fault of God is because God created man and woman perfectly with a perfect environment.

Many ask, “Why didn’t God stop it?” He had already tried to, and because He was not willing to be a tyrannical and controlling God, He allowed people to make a choice and thus suffer the consequences.

Genesis 2:16-17 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: (17) But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

Problems in the Garden of Eden

Genesis 3:1-3 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? (2) And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: (3) But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.

God didn’t say don’t touch it, He said, Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. No doubt satan picked up on the fact that Eve did not know the word of God. This is why it’s important to know what God said, and not what we think He said!

Genesis 3:4 – 5 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: (5) For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

“Ye shall not surely die…” This is the first lie recorded in the word of God. The first lie to be believed was the lie believed by Lucifer that he could overthrow God. Jesus tells us how that ended up. Luke 10:18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

Genesis 3:6 – 7 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. (7) And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

John later refers to this mindset in 1st John 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Genesis 1st John

“The tree was good for food” = “the lust of the flesh”

“and that it was pleasant to the eyes” = “the lust of the eyes”

“and a tree to be desired to make one wise” = “the pride of life”

God’s Solution

Genesis 3:23-24 Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. (24) So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.

God did not want people to live forever under the penalty of sin so, in His mercy, He drove them away from the tree of life while simultaneously imposing the proper punishments upon the guilty parties.

The Garden of Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36-39 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (37) And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. (38) Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. (39) And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

This is where Jesus made the final decision to go through with the will of God that He may provide a way of salvation from the penalty of sin to whosoever will!

Matthew 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

John 19:30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

Jesus went through all of this because of what happened in the Garden of Eden. Why did Jesus have to do this? It was to deliver us from the penalty of sin that the rest of the world will face.

Galatians 1:4-5 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (5) To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Jesus has a continuing work to do. Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

God’s Heavenly Garden

Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

Revelation 22:1-2 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. (2) In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

The tree of life hasn’t been partaken of by people since it was in the Garden of Eden, and now it will be partaken of for all eternity by those who place their faith, love, and obedience in the finished work of Jesus Christ!

This is why Paul says we are “…partakers of the heavenly calling…” and that we are to “…consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus”! (Hebrews 3:1)

We can be partakers of the tree of life in God’s heavenly garden because Jesus made up His mind in the Garden of Gethsemane to correct the problem that started in the Garden of Eden by dying on the cross for our sins and making a way for us to escape the penalty of sin!

Have you made up your mind to die to sin in your life and make Jesus your savior? Are you letting Him take away the spiritual spots and wrinkles of unholy behaviors and mindsets in your life? This is the only way to receive the reward that is set before us and to be an eternal partaker of the tree of life!

Thank you!

Pastor Fulmer

Scriptural Promise for the Week of February 2 – 8, 2025

This promise from God reminds us that we already have all we need to live a victorious, virtuous, and Godly life because we know Jesus!

This is because the power to live this life comes directly from God Himself!

Who Was Eber? A Historical Account of the Name “Hebrew”

Introduction

Eber is a significant figure in the Bible, specifically within the genealogies found in the Book of Genesis. He is an ancestor of the Hebrew people, and his name is believed to be the root of the term “Hebrew.”

As a matter of fact, the first time the word “Hebrew” is used can be found regarding Abram in Genesis 14:13 And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelt in the plain of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner: and these were confederate with Abram.

This article explores the historical account of Eber and the reasons why the Hebrews are named after him.

Genealogy of Eber

Eber, also known as Heber, is mentioned in the genealogies listed in Genesis 10 and Genesis 11. He is the great-grandson of Shem, one of Noah’s three sons. According to Genesis 10:24, Eber is the son of Salah.

The genealogy continues in Genesis 11:14-17 And Salah lived thirty years, and begat Eber: (15) And Salah lived after he begat Eber four hundred and three years, and begat sons and daughters. (16) And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg: (17) And Eber lived after he begat Peleg four hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters.

The Lineage of Shem

The lineage of Shem is of great importance because it connects to many key figures in the Bible, including Abraham. Shem’s descendants are often associated with the Semitic people, or called “Semites”. According to Jewish tradition, Shem’s descendants were responsible for spreading monotheism and ethical teachings. Eber stands out as a pivotal link within this lineage.

Eber’s Descendants

Eber had two sons, Peleg and Joktan. Genesis 10:25 And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg; for in his days was the earth divided; and his brother’s name was Joktan.

Peleg’s lineage leads directly to Abraham, making Eber an integral ancestor of the Hebrew nation. The name Peleg means “to divide”. The division mentioned in this verse is often interpreted as the division of languages at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9). This is also believed by many to be when God separated the continents one from another, or “Pangea” as it’s called.

The Origin of the Name “Hebrew”

The term “Hebrew” is believed to derive from the name Eber. The Hebrew word “Ivri” is thought to mean “descendant of Eber” or “one who crosses over.” The etymology, or historical origin, of this word is supported by various linguistic and historical records.

Jewish tradition also holds that the name “Ivri” signifies Abraham’s crossing over the Euphrates River into Canaan, symbolizing a journey of faith and obedience to God.

The Significance of “Crossing Over”

The concept of “crossing over” is significant in the context of the Hebrews. Abraham, a descendant of Eber, is often described as a wanderer who crossed over from Mesopotamia to the land of Canaan. This act of migration and crossing geographical boundaries is emblematic of the Hebrew experience:

Genesis 12:4 So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.

The Jews would later cross over the Jordan River into the Promise Land, under the leadership of Joshua, the successor to Moses. It’s interesting to note that the name Joshua, or Yeshua in Hebrew, is the same name as Yeshua HaMaschiac, or Jesus Christ.

So, we see that the meaning of Eber’s name, “one who crosses over”, or Hebrew, could have been intended by God to first signify the crossing over of Abram from Mesopotamia into Canaan. It could then have been intended by God to signify Eber’s descendants crossing over the Jordan River into their earthly Promise Land. And it could have been intended by God today to signify those who cross over into God’s eternal Promise Land by placing their faith in Jesus Christ!

Conclusion

Eber’s name and legacy are preserved through his descendants and the continued use of the term “Hebrew.” His position in the genealogies situates him as a foundational figure in the ancestral history of the Israelites. Jewish historical references also emphasize Eber’s role in maintaining the language and traditions of the pre-Babel world; before his descendants were ever called “Hebrew”.

Eber’s role in the Bible is crucial for understanding the origins of the Hebrew people. The narrative of Eber and his descendants offers profound insights into the identity and heritage of the Hebrew people! His genealogical importance and the historical connection between his name and the term “Hebrew” underscore his significance in biblical history!

Scriptural Promise for the Week of January 26 – February 1, 2025

This verse is a promise of profound encouragement and assurance. It encapsulates the essence of God’s unwavering commitment to His people.

It stands as a testament to the divine promise that the good work begun in believers at their salvation will be brought to completion not only in this life, but also in eternity!

So, remember! You’re not just going to Heaven, but you are in the process of having the perfect work and will of God completed in your life!

Be sure to share by copying and pasting the link to your social media page so others can also be encouraged by God’s promises!

Blessings,

Pastor Fulmer

Being Confident of this Very Thing

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Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Introduction

The verse Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ,” is one of profound encouragement and assurance. As part of Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, this verse encapsulates the essence of God’s unwavering commitment to His people. It stands as a testament to the divine promise that the good work begun in believers will be brought to completion.

Context of Philippians 1:6

To fully appreciate Philippians 1:6, it is important to understand the context in which Paul wrote this epistle. The letter to the Philippians was written while Paul was in prison, likely in Rome, around AD 61-62. Despite his imprisonment, Paul’s tone throughout the letter is one of joy and gratitude. He addresses the believers in Philippi, expressing his deep affection and appreciation for their support and partnership in the gospel.

The Assurance of Divine Work

Philippians 1:6 speaks directly to the assurance that God, who initiates a good work in believers, will faithfully see it through to completion. This good work refers to the transformative process of salvation and sanctification, whereby individuals are progressively conformed to the image of Christ. It is a process that begins with the acceptance of the gospel and continues throughout the believer’s life.

Confidence in God’s Faithfulness

Paul’s confidence in the verse stems from his unwavering belief in God’s faithfulness. He assures the Philippians that the work God has started in them is not a fleeting endeavor but a deliberate and purposeful act. This confidence is not based on human effort or merit but on the character and promises of God.

The Beginning of the Good Work

The phrase “he which hath begun a good work in you” emphasizes that it is God who initiates the process of spiritual growth and transformation. This initiation is rooted in God’s grace and love, as He draws individuals to Himself through the gospel. The good work involves the regeneration of the heart, the renewal of the mind, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

The Ongoing Process

The good work that God begins is an ongoing process that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Believers are called to live out their faith, growing in Christlikeness through prayer, study of the Word, fellowship with other believers, and obedience to God’s commands. This process is often marked by challenges and trials, but it is through these experiences that believers are refined and strengthened.

God has always been a refiner of His people. Malachi 3:3 And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.

The Completion Until the Day of Jesus Christ

The phrase “will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s work in believers. The day of Jesus Christ refers to His second coming, the Second Advent of Christ, or the return of Christ.

This is when Jesus Christ will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal kingdom. Until that day, God’s work in believers is continuous, aiming toward complete sanctification (as Malachi points out “that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness”). This process ultimately brings God’s glorification in His people!

Hope and Encouragement

Philippians 1:6 offers profound hope and encouragement to believers. It reassures them that they are not alone in their spiritual journey and that God’s grace and power are at work within them. This assurance enables believers to persevere in faith, knowing that their efforts are part of God’s grand design.

Living in Light of the Promise

Living in the light of Philippians 1:6 involves embracing the divine promise and allowing it to shape one’s life. It calls for a response of faith, trust, and obedience to the LORD. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, to pursue holiness instead of just happiness, and to rely on God’s strength in all circumstances, not just their own understanding.

Conclusion

Philippians 1:6 is a verse that resonates with the timeless truth of God’s unwavering commitment to His people. It underscores the divine assurance that the good work begun in believers will be brought to completion, not by human effort but by God’s faithfulness.

As Christians reflect on this verse, they are reminded of the transformative journey they are on and the ultimate hope they have in Christ’s return. This verse continues to inspire and encourage, providing a foundation of confidence and trust in the God who completes what He starts!

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Thank you!

Pastor Fulmer

Five Reasons to Consider that Melchisedec is Jesus Christ

An interesting topic came up while I was teaching my current Bible Study series from the book of Hebrews entitled The Messianic Christology of Jesus, which you can find by >>Clicking Here<<.

That topic was how to reconcile the thought that Melchisedec was Jesus Christ appearing in the Old Testament. I understand that there are differing opinions on this subject depending on who you ask and from which commentary you read.

It is worth noting that you do not have to believe that Melchisedec is Jesus Christ in order to be saved. We’re told in Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Have you believed and confessed Jesus Christ as your Savior? You must if you want to be ready to stand before God.

This list is simply from my observations in scripture that support the position that Melchisedec is Jesus Christ more than any other position on the topic.

Melchisedec is called “King of Salem” (Jerusalem) (Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem…). This was before there ever was a Jerusalem being inhabited by God’s people on the earth. We now know there was always new Jerusalem in Heaven and Jesus is the King of it
- Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
- Revelation 21:9-10 …Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife. (10) And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God
Melchisedec was priest of the most high God (Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec…priest of the most high God…). There was no prohibition on being a priest and king until after the Law was given.
- Jesus is God’s High Priest to God’s people (Hebrews 2:17 …that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.)
Melchisedec remains a priest continually (Hebrews 7:3 …abideth a priest continually.) To believe that Melchisedec was simply a mortal king/priest, you’d have to also accept that Melchisedec died like all other mortal kings and priests. This could only be based on assumption because we’re not told that he died. We’re told he abides continually.
- Jesus is the only one who could have existed in the days of Abram and still “abide a priest continually” because He never dies.
Abram paid tithes to Melchisedec (Hebrews 7:4 Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.).
- Tithes belong to God alone (Leviticus 27:30 And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD’S: it is holy unto the LORD.)
- Abraham recognized when he was in the presence of God, as we would see again in Genesis 18.
Melchisedec is witnessed to still be alive (Hebrews 7:8 And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.) (Notice the present tense).
- Only Jesus could have existed in the days of Abram and still be alive today.

What are your thoughts? Please let me know in the comments.

Scriptural Promise for January 19 – 25, 2025

These verses present a compelling call to holiness that is rewarded with the promise of divine adoption. It underscores the necessity of separating from impurity and the assurance of being received into an intimate relationship with God.

For followers of Jesus today, these verses offer a timeless reminder of the importance of living in accordance with God’s standards and the profound privilege of being His children.

As we heed this call to holiness, we can rest in the assurance of God’s acceptance and the transformative power of being adopted into His divine family!