The Thief, Accountability, and Abundant Life

  Title: Understanding John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment In the Bible, several verses and teachings emphasize the importance of upholding God's commandments and living a righteous life. Among these are John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment ("Thou shalt not steal"). Let's explore these passages and how they are connected to the concept of accountability and the promise of abundant life in Jesus. John 10:10 : This verse is part of a larger teaching where Jesus contrasts Himself as the Good Shepherd with the thief. Jesus says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." Here, the thief can be interpreted as the enemy, including Satan, whose intentions are purely destructive and harmful. In contrast, Jesus brings life and abundance to those who follow Him. Exodus 22 : In this passage, God outlines laws for restitution and justice, including how to handle theft. A thief is held

The True Meaning of Hallelujah: A Call to Praise the Name of God

04SEP2023

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

Grace and peace be with you all. Today, I write to you as we gather in the spirit of unity and faith to delve into the profound and sacred meaning of "Hallelujah" - a word that has echoed through the ages as an expression of our heartfelt praise to the Almighty. As we explore this word, let us gain a deeper understanding of why believers continually lift their voices in praise to the Name of God.

**Hallelujah**, a word rooted in the very heart of our faith, can be found throughout the pages of the Holy Scriptures. It is a Hebrew expression that essentially means **"Praise the Lord!"** It is a command, an imperative to exalt and magnify our Creator. In our praise, we are invited to:

1. **Praise God for His Greatness:** In Psalm 150, we are called to praise God in His sanctuary, in the heavens, for His acts of power and surpassing greatness. (Psalm 150:1-2)

2. **Praise God with Instruments and Voices:** We are encouraged to praise Him with musical instruments, with singing and dancing, with all that we have and all that we are. (Psalm 150:3-5)

3. **Praise God for His Salvation and Glory:** In Revelation 19, we witness heavenly hosts declaring "Hallelujah" as they recognize God's salvation, glory, and power. (Revelation 19:1-6)

As we reflect on the meaning of "Hallelujah," we come to understand that it is a profound act of worship, gratitude, and exaltation. It acknowledges the greatness of our Lord and His wondrous works in our lives. Our praise is a response to His love, mercy, and faithfulness.

But why do we, as believers, continually raise our voices to shout "Hallelujah"?

Beloved, we do it because in Christ Jesus, we have received salvation, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. We praise the Lord because He is the source of our strength, our hope, and our joy. We shout "Hallelujah" because, in doing so, we proclaim His mighty deeds to the world and inspire others to join us in worship.

Therefore, I implore each one of you, my dear Brothers and Sisters, to embrace the true meaning of "Hallelujah." Let us not only say it with our lips but declare it with all our hearts. Let us shout "Hallelujah" in our homes, our churches, and our communities, spreading the message of God's love and grace to all who will hear.

In Christ Jesus, let us lift our voices in unison and with one accord, giving thanks, glorifying His name, and making known His salvation to the ends of the earth.


In Christ Jesus,


Dr. J.K. Woodall

Senior Pastor

Revival Center Hesperia, California

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