Is Thomas Really in Doubt?

Doubt or Truth Seeker?

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

For too long, we've labeled the Apostle Thomas as "Doubting Thomas." But is this fair? Let’s reconsider his story, especially in light of the Old Testament altar described in Exodus 27.

The Altar of Burnt Offering

In Exodus 27, God commands Moses to build an altar with horns on each corner. These horns secured the sacrificial animal and symbolized power, salvation, and mercy. The blood applied to the horns signified atonement for sins.

The Cross as the New Altar

Fast forward to the New Testament: the cross becomes the ultimate altar, and Jesus the ultimate sacrifice. The nails in His hands and feet, like the horns, secured the sacrifice, marking Jesus as the Lamb of God.

Thomas' Request: Seeking the Markings

In John 20:24-29, Thomas says, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe." Thomas wasn’t just doubting; he was looking for the true markings of God's sacrifice.

When Jesus showed His wounds, He provided the proof Thomas sought: that He was indeed the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the purpose of the Old Testament sacrifices. Jesus said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."

A New Perspective on Faith

Let’s see Thomas not as a doubter, but as someone who understood the need for authenticating God’s true sacrifice. Through Thomas's boldness, we can all believe and recognize Jesus as the one and only Sacrificial Lamb, whose wounds are the eternal marks of our redemption. We can see Thomas as a seeker of truth, whose boldness leads us all to a deeper faith in Jesus as the ultimate Sacrificial Lamb.

In Christ’s love,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

Time to SUBDUE

 Conquer Every Challenge: Embrace Your Divine Mandate to Subdue!

My Dear Brothers & Sisters, 

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Life often presents us with challenges—whether in health, finances, family, or other areas. In these moments, we must remember the divine mandate and strength we possess through Christ. 

In Genesis 1:28, God said: "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground."

This command is about more than just populating the earth; it calls us to exercise dominion and bring order to every aspect of our lives. 

Consider the example of Joshua. In Joshua 1:6-9, God encouraged him:

"Be strong and courageous... Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Just as God empowered Joshua, He empowers us today. We are called to subdue every challenge we face, knowing that God is with us. Whether it’s health, finances, or family issues, we can conquer these obstacles in the name of Jesus.

Be bold and unwavering in your faith. Remember, God’s promises are true, and His power is unmatched. Stand firm, for with God, we are more than conquerors.

In HIS Name and Power,

Pst JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior, Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia California

 COVERINGS

Dear Friends,

In Exodus 26, we find the detailed design of the Tabernacle's curtains and coverings, each layer rich with spiritual meaning and pointing to the ultimate covering provided by Jesus Christ.

The Inner Curtains

1. Fine Twined Linen: Symbolizing purity and divine presence, reminiscent of the innocence in Eden.

2. Goats' Hair: Representing sin and the need for atonement.

The Outer Coverings

3. Rams' Skins Dyed Red: Signifying sacrifice and the shedding of blood for forgiveness.

4. Fine Leather: Offering protection and signifying God's provision and care.

These layers weren't just ritualistic elements; they foreshadowed Jesus Christ, our ultimate Redeemer. When Adam and Eve sinned, they realized their nakedness, and God provided garments of skin (Genesis 3:21) as a precursor to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.

Jesus, the pure and spotless one (fine linen), bore our sins (goats' hair) and, through His blood shed on the cross (rams' skins dyed red), provided the perfect atonement. The Holy Spirit, represented by the number 50, empowers and sanctifies us. Christ is our protective covering (fine leather), shielding us from condemnation and uniting us with God.

Reflect on these layers and be inspired by the profound truth they reveal: Jesus Christ is our ultimate covering, fulfilling God’s redemptive plan.

With love and blessings,

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

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Father's of Nations: A Father's Day Message

 Happy Father's Day to All Fathers Everywhere!

Today, we honor and celebrate the incredible fathers who, like Abraham, are the "Fathers of Nations." Abraham's story is a profound testament to faith, commitment, and the enduring influence of fatherhood. Just as Abraham was called by God to be the father of many nations, you too are called to shape and guide the generations that follow.

Genesis 17:5 tells us, "No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations." Abraham's journey was marked by faith and obedience to God, setting an example for fathers everywhere. Your role as fathers is to follow in his footsteps, instilling faith, values, and love in your children.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Your dedication to guiding and nurturing your children is a reflection of Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promises. By teaching and leading by example, you ensure that your children grow up with a strong foundation in faith and character.

Ephesians 6:4 says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." Like Abraham, who followed God's guidance with patience and wisdom, you are called to lead your children with love, discipline, and instruction. Your influence shapes them into compassionate, just, and loving individuals who will carry forward your legacy.

Reflecting on Psalm 103:13, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him," we see how your compassion and love mirror the heart of our Heavenly Father. Your actions provide a glimpse of God's infinite love and care, making a lasting impact on your children and beyond.

Thank you for your unwavering love, sacrifices, and commitment to your families. As fathers, you emulate our Heavenly Father, building the foundations for future generations. May God bless you with wisdom, strength, and joy as you continue to lead your families with faith and love.

Happy Father's Day, Fathers of Nations!

A Servant of the Most High,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia

No Other God's

Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me

Exodus 20:3 (King James Version)

Dear Friends,

I hope this message finds you well. Today, I want to share a powerful reminder from the Scriptures about God's sovereignty over all things, especially in the face of idols and false gods.

In ancient Egypt, during the ten plagues, God demonstrated His unmatched power when even the revered bull deity, Apis, fell powerless before Him. This event serves as a vivid testament to His sovereignty over all idols.

Centuries later, after miraculously freeing the Israelites from Egypt, God’s people sadly turned to a golden calf for security and guidance, disregarding God’s clear command: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3-4).

Yet, the pinnacle of this theme unfolds in the story of King Nebuchadnezzar. His pride led to a humbling transformation into a beast, grazing like an ox—a poignant reminder of God’s authority over all earthly powers (Daniel 4:32).

Let us hold fast to this truth: idols may seem powerful, but they can't compare to God’s sovereignty and provision. As Christians, our mission remains clear—to worship God alone and proclaim His love and grace to all.

With blessings,  

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

#ThouShaltHaveNoOtherGods #GodIsSovereign #FaithfulWorship

The Wrong Side

Dear Friends and Fellow Seekers of Truth,

I hope this letter finds you in peace and good health. Today, I want to share a reflection on the choices we make when we find ourselves not hearing from God. This story from the lives of David and Saul illustrates the difference between seeking God’s guidance faithfully and turning to the wrong sources when we feel lost.

There was a time when David, the future king of Israel, found himself in a precarious situation. He had been fleeing from King Saul, who sought to take his life. In his desperation, David aligned himself with the Philistines, Israel's enemies. This decision led him to a point where he was about to march into battle against his own people. We find this account in 1 Samuel 29. David's situation was dire; he seemed to be on the wrong side, caught in a web of dangerous alliances.

In contrast, King Saul faced his own crisis. Saul had repeatedly disobeyed God, leading to a point where the Lord no longer answered him. In 1 Samuel 28, desperate for guidance before an impending battle with the Philistines, Saul sought out a medium in Endor to summon the spirit of Samuel. This act of turning to forbidden practices starkly contrasted with David’s approach when he found himself in silence from God.

David, while aligned with the enemy, knew where to turn for guidance. In 1 Samuel 30, when his camp at Ziklag was raided by the Amalekites and his men spoke of stoning him in their grief, David did not despair. Instead, he sought the Lord's guidance in the proper manner. David called for the ephod, the sacred garment of the high priest, and through it, he inquired of the Lord.

*"Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, ‘Bring me the ephod.’ Abiathar brought it to him, and David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?’ ‘Pursue them,’ he answered. ‘You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.’”* (1 Samuel 30:7-8).

Despite his earlier mistakes, David knew the importance of seeking God's direction. His response was to turn back to God, asking for guidance through the divinely appointed means. This act demonstrated his faith and reliance on God's providence, even when he had made poor choices.

Saul's story ended tragically. After consulting the medium and hearing from the spirit of Samuel that he would lose the battle and his life, Saul went into battle without God's favor and met his end the next day. His desperation led him to the wrong side, seeking guidance from a source that God had expressly forbidden.

The stark difference between David and Saul is clear: When David found himself not hearing from God, he sought the Lord through the proper, God-ordained channels. Saul, in his desperation, turned to forbidden practices, ultimately sealing his fate.

What does this mean for us today? We all face moments of silence, times when God’s guidance seems distant. The lesson from David’s and Saul’s lives is crucial: We must seek God’s voice through the right means. Today, we have the Holy Spirit, sent by Jesus to guide us into all truth. Unlike the Urim and Thummim or the ephod, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, offering continuous guidance and comfort.

Jesus said in John 16:13, *"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come."* We no longer need to turn to stones or ephods; we have the ever-present Holy Spirit to lead us.

Let us learn from these ancient stories. When we feel lost or unheard, let us not turn to the wrong sources. Instead, let us call upon the Holy Spirit, seek God’s guidance through prayer, and trust in His Word. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are always with us, ready to guide us if we seek, hear, and obey.

May we always remember to seek God’s face, even in silence, trusting that He will lead us on the right path.

With blessings and prayers for your continued journey in faith,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

All Nations

 

United in Christ: The One Nation of Believers

In today's world, where divisions based on ethnicity, culture, and social status are prevalent, it is crucial for Christians to remember a fundamental truth taught by the Apostle Paul: all believers are united as one in Christ. This unity transcends all earthly distinctions, forging a new identity as children of the Most High.

One in Christ Jesus

Paul's letter to the Galatians makes this point unmistakably clear: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise" (Galatians 3:28-29). In these verses, Paul emphasizes that faith in Christ erases all dividing lines. Our primary identity is found not in our ethnicity, social status, or gender, but in our relationship with Jesus.

Breaking Down Walls of Hostility

In Ephesians, Paul expands on this theme by illustrating how Christ's sacrifice has reconciled both Jews and Gentiles to God, forming one new humanity: "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility" (Ephesians 2:14-16). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus destroyed the barriers that once separated people, uniting all believers into a single, cohesive body.

No Distinction Before God

Paul reinforces this idea in his letter to the Romans: "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him" (Romans 10:12). This passage underscores the impartiality of God. He does not favor one group over another. Instead, He extends His grace and blessings to all who call upon Him in faith.

A Nation of Believers

Given these teachings, it is evident that Christians collectively form a nation of believers. Our citizenship is in heaven, and our unity in Christ transcends all earthly differences. Peter echoes this sentiment when he writes, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). As God's chosen people, we are called to live out this unity, reflecting His love and grace to the world.

Living Out Our Unity

To truly embody this unity, we must actively seek to overcome prejudices and divisions within our communities. This means embracing diversity within the body of Christ and recognizing the unique contributions of each individual. It also involves standing against injustices and working towards reconciliation and peace.

In practical terms, we can start by fostering inclusive environments within our churches and communities, where everyone feels valued and accepted. We should also engage in open and honest conversations about race, culture, and social issues, guided by the principles of love and respect.

Conclusion

As children of the Most High, we are called to a higher standard of unity and love. Let us remember Paul's teachings and strive to live as one nation of believers, celebrating our diversity while being united in our shared faith. In doing so, we fulfill our calling to proclaim the excellencies of God, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.

May we always remember that in Christ, there is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female, but all are one. We are, indeed, a nation of believers, children of the Most High, bound together by the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A Servant of Yahweh, 

JK. Woodall, Ph.D. 

Senior Pastor,  Revival Center Hesperia 

Welcome to Your New Month of June 2024!

 

Dear Friends,

As we welcome the new month of June 2024, I extend warm and joyous greetings to each of you. This sixth month of the year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect, renew, and redirect our paths towards growth and fulfillment, with the guidance of our Lord.

June, in its position as the sixth month, reminds us of the biblical symbolism of the number 6—a symbol of human effort, labor, and the recognition of our imperfections. Let us embrace this time to focus on areas where we can improve in our daily lives, acknowledging our human limitations while striving for excellence with God's help.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Personal Growth: 

   - Take time this month to reflect on your personal goals. Identify areas where you can improve, whether in your habits, skills, or relationships. Set realistic and achievable goals to work towards a better version of yourself.

   - *"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."* (Jeremiah 29:11)

2. Spiritual Health:

   - Make space for daily prayer, meditation, and reading of the Scriptures. Let the Word of God be your guide and source of strength. Seek to deepen your relationship with the Lord, finding peace and wisdom in His presence.

   - *"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."* (Psalm 119:105)

3. Relationships:

   - Strengthen your connections with family, friends, and your community. Practice kindness, patience, and understanding. Reach out to those who may need support or encouragement, offering a listening ear or a helping hand.

   - *"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."* (1 Peter 4:8)

4. Health and Well-being:

   - Pay attention to your physical health. Incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest. Remember that caring for your body is an important aspect of honoring the life God has given you.

   - *"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."* (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

5. Work and Productivity:

   - Approach your work with diligence and dedication. Whether in your job, studies, or personal projects, strive for excellence and integrity. Let your efforts reflect the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord.

   - *"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."* (Colossians 3:23)

Reminder of God's Goodness:

As we journey through June, let us constantly remind ourselves of the goodness of our Lord. His love and mercy are new every morning, providing us with the strength and hope we need to navigate life's challenges. The beauty of creation around us, the support of loved ones, and the opportunities we encounter each day are all testaments to His abundant grace.

In moments of doubt or difficulty, remember that God's plans for you are filled with hope and a future. Trust in His timing and His ways, for He is a faithful provider and a loving Father. *"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."* (Lamentations 3:22-23)

May this month be a time of transformation and renewal for each of you. Embrace the opportunities for growth and improvement, and let the goodness of the Lord shine through in all that you do. Open your hearts to His presence, especially in areas lacking Him, and witness the profound changes He brings.

Blessings and Peace to You All,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia