The Gospel of Luke 19:15 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.” (Luke 19:15 KJV).

This passage is given to us not as a terrifying test of works or anxiety, but as an encouragement to rest in God's grace and operate from the place of His unmerited favor. The nobleman, who represents the Lord Jesus, returns from the far country - that points to heaven where He’s affirmed of His kingship. Though the citizens that refer to the religious Jews rejected Him, He’s always been the chosen King from the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-6).

With wisdom, through the Holy Spirit who teaches us all things (John 14:26), we reflect this verse on the lens of God’s unmerited favor. Not on the demands of the law for performance-based works of self-effort. This focuses on the Lord Jesus returning as King, being who He is before time began. He called His servants to account for the gifts of grace He entrusted them with. The Mina or money given represents the Gospel of the Grace of God that He entrusts with every believer in equal, lavish measure.

You and I, who are blessed to receive the grace of God, are empowered to increase and prosper this gift. We are to let this grace work in us from the inside out by total surrender of our life in our Lord Jesus Christ through faith. When our King and Lord returns, He will call us to account how much we’ve gained allowing by allowing His grace to work in our life. We are reminded to do the work trading in the grace of God. In one of the Lord’s encounter with the crowd, the Scriptures reveal: “Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.”” (John 6:28-29 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:14 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.” (Luke 19:14 KJV).

In this passage, the Lord illustrates that the "citizens" representing the self-righteous religious Jews, the world’s religious system and the pagan world who reject Him. They reject His free gift of grace in favor of self-effort, the Law and doctrines of men. Their rebellious cry of rejection, "We will not have this man to reign over us," points to the modern world's rejection of God's unmerited favor. Worldly people prefer to rely on their own performance rather than having the Lord Jesus as their loving Savior. They assume the role of God on their lives.

The good news of the covenant of grace is, when the Lord Jesus reigns, He supplies His people with His righteousness and blessings. The citizens’ hatred stems from their being duped by the deception of the enemy of the soul using a worldly alternative in religion - represented by the Pharisees, priests and Sadducees, making people believe in a god other than the true God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Our God is the God of grace, not of rules. He is the God who loves us first so we can love Him the moment we yield to be loved by Him. The citizens of the far country represent the Lord’s fellow Jews and the world that rejected Him. This, therefore, reminds us to take lesson from this parable and be in the posture of acceptance to His love and reign.

It is of the utmost that we must be cognizant of His love, as it is written: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:16-19 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:11-13 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.” (Luke 19:11-13 KJV).

The Lord Jesus, now nearing Jerusalem, tells the Parable of the Minas to correct the crowd’s perception that God's physical kingdom would come immediately. Those that follows Him expected instant establishment of an earthly, political kingdom and overthrow Roman rule. So, He tells them: keep "occupying till I come" in embracing the New Covenant of God’s unmerited favor, resting by faith in Him, and reign in life through His grace.

The story is about a nobleman going to a far country to receive a kingdom and then returns. Before leaving, he gives his ten servants ten minas (equal amount of money-representing grace, for each of them) and commands them to "do business till I come". In the context of grace, the minas are gifts given by the nobleman who represents the Lord Jesus. The ten servants (with the number 10 pointing to the ten commandments that shackled them in the law mindset), are to steward the gift of grace they received during his absence. “Doing business" or "occupying" until the Lord returns is not about striving for worldly and religious endeavors. It is about reaching out to all, sharing the gospel of the grace of God. The servants are expected to move away from law efforts, be transformed and spiritually reborn children of God in Christ. They are expected to behave as those who found and have grasped the message of truth. You and I, who are now set free from the world and religious systems, are to be occupied freely giving the gift of salvation by grace to all in our proximity both physically and the cyber space.

The Minas represent God’s grace given in equal measure to each one by God’s unmerited favor through faith. Our job is not to earn more grace, but to "trade or share" what we've already been given for others to believe and rest in it. This we do ‘til the our Lord Jesus Christ returns, keeping at heart the Lord’s words of oath, as it is written: “Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.” (Matthew 24:46-47 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:9-10 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:9-10 KJV).

Reflecting these passages through the lens of the Lord’s gospel of grace, we are touched by how the Lord Jesus treats Zacchaeus with compassion. The Lord Jesus declares Zacchaeus a son of Abraham based on his submission to the Lord’s grace, not legal observance to be perfect. We watch the Lord’s unmerited favor at work, with the Lord not demanding that Zacchaeus change his lifestyle first before visiting his home. Our relationship with God is not a matter of religious transformation of ourselves by ourselves to be like Him. It is a matter of us coming to Him in total surrender as we are yielding to His grace to be transformed from the inside out by the power of the Holy Spirit and His Words.

That’s what happened to this publican named Zacchaeus. The Lord declared him son of Abraham, not so much of his family ancestry, but as to his recognition of the Lord’s grace. He came to see the Lord as he was. No religious make over. He came a sinner as he was branded by religious people. He yielded himself to the Lord when called to come down from a tree. Now he is saved by the One who climbed to a tree, hanged for Zacchaeus’ and all humanity’s salvation from their sins. That includes you and I, in our posture of coming to the Lord Jesus Christ, helpless, lost as we were once and needed salvation. In Him we’re saved by grace. 

In our worst state, by act of surrender, as with Zacchaeus, to all those who have yielded their lives to our Lord Jesus Christ, now is the time to come and by saved by grace. His holy and written words declare: “For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”(2 Corinthians 6:2 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:8 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And Zacchæus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.” (Luke 19:8 KJV).

In this passage, we see the ultimate example of how grace transforms a person’s being from the inside out. Zacchaeus—a wealthy and despised tax collector who cheated his own fellow Jews, stood stunned. The Message Bible paraphrase says, “….. He stammered apologetically, “Master, I give away half my income to the poor—and if I’m caught cheating, I pay four times the damages.”” (Luke 19:8 MSG).

As revealed, the Lord Jesus did not give Zacchaeus a demand list of laws and rules or require repentance before entering his home. Our Lord Jesus simply extended him acceptance, grace and unconditional love. His spontaneous hospitality was not an attempt to earn God's favor, but the result of encountering the Lord’s grace and love. This manifests that experiencing the Lord’s unmerited favor and forgiveness naturally lead to a transformed life, producing generosity and moral renewal.

This un-assuming taxman Zacchaeus is in direct contrast with the Rich Young Ruler, who attempted to pander the Lord. He calls Him Good Master. The Rich Young Ruler boasted his presumptive law-keeping and walked away sorrowful when asked to give up his wealth (Luke 18:18-23; Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 19:16-22). Zacchaeus on the other hand (a notorious publican and labelled sinner with nothing to boast about) received the Lord joyfully in his house and willingly offered to give half his wealth away.

This voluntary act of Zacchaeus is our reminder to stay rooted by faith in our Lord’s grace and love, not our perceived possessions and accomplishments. We must remain stirred and mindful to reflect on the Lord’s question with wonder, as it is written: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:7 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.” (Luke 19:7 KJV).

This verse exposes the clash between human judgment and divine grace. When the crowd of religious and law-based-mindset people that followed the Lord Jesus Christ on His way to Jerusalem witnessed that He chooses to visit the home of Zacchaeus - a corrupt tax collector, they grumble. These religious crowd marked Zacchaeus as a public sinner. And they judged the Lord Jesus for opting to associate with him. These people operate under a "works-based" religious system, akin to the present day world environment. They believe that God's presence is reserved only for the morally qualified and “people’s award recipients” whose names are marked on their “good works”.

The Lord Jesus who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14), instead of condemning Zacchaeus or giving him a list of rules to observe, He offered him acceptance and friendship. He embraced Zacchaeus by His radical grace and love. This highlights that He did not wait for Zacchaeus to clean up his life before offering salvation. He extended His grace and love first, as He did to us all even when we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). The process of renewal and transformation starts to manifest in a person upon experiencing this unconditional love of the Lord, that triggers a change in Zacchaeus. The Lord’s unmerited favor gave Zacchaeus the power to freely repent and freely give. Which reminds us all of the Lord’s instruction: “You received without paying; give without pay.” (Matthew 10:8b ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:5-6 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchæus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.” (Luke 19:5-6 KJV).

As the Lord Jesus passes through the city of Jericho, He came to the spot where the despised chief tax collector, Zacchaeus, tries to get a glimpse of Him up a sycamore tree. The Lord looks up, calls him by name, and tells him to hurry down because He "must" stay at his house. Zacchaeus joyfully scrambled down the tree, stunned and thinking ‘what a luck’ he has just gotten. Even though he came simply curious and trying to see this famous man, the Lord Jesus was actively seeking him out. This illustrates that God searches for those hated by the world and lost by His divine grace.

By calling the outcast, wealthy tax collector by name and asking to stay at his house, the Lord Jesus offered him grace and fellowship instead of judgment. He extended Zacchaeus radical acceptance to salvation. Our Lord Jesus said He must stay at Zacchaeus's house today. Zacchaeus responds with urgency and joy. His welcoming obedience, shows that true transformation begins the moment you eagerly accept our Lord Jesus Christ into our everyday life. This is our reminder, as Scriptures affirmed: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (Hebrews 13:2 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 19:1-4 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchæus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.” (Luke 19:1-4 KJV).

In this story about Zacchæus, we watch on display the comforting picture of radical unmerited favor. This filthy rich chief tax collector named Zacchaeus wanted to see our Lord Jesus who’s passing through the city of Jericho. But he faced physical limitations for he’s short and small that he could not get through the wall of crowd blocking him. But, he could not be deterred. He finds his way to see the Lord Jesus. He is our example of one who truly seeks God, that no matter your state of being as this drama unfolds, if you have a desire to meet the Lord Jesus, you can. He will meet you where you are.

In this city, the people looked at Zacchaeus and others like him with disdain. As corrupt publicans, 'they deserved judgment'. For many of the people around him, especially the religious people, he is a sinner not worthy to hang around with. He merely represents "dead works" and human decadence. But, here he is determined to see God. So, he climbed a Sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of the Lord. His act of faith will show us that God notices our sincere desire to know who the Lord Jesus is.

This man is an exemplification of one in a state of worldly decay, viewed deplorable in the eyes of the law, by the religious system and by the benchmark of humanity. But, unbeknownst to him, his conscience is responding to the call of grace. By pursuing to see the Lord Jesus, he is responding to the Lord’s command to seek God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33). He and those who are still lost in this presently darkened world is assured to find the Lord, as it is written: ““Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:42-43 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.” (Luke 18:42-43 KJV).

These passages give us a very beautiful and comforting declaration from the Lord to the persistent blind man. This follows the Lord’s compassionate interaction with him, saying: ““What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord,” he said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.”” (Luke 18:41-42 NLT). This is such a powerful illustration of disproportionate grace to receive God's abundant supply of blessings entirely through faith rather than human merit of performance.

The blind beggar did nothing impressive to earn his sight; he simply cried out for mercy from the depth of his lungs and believed. The man’s healing was both physical and complete salvation/wholeness (sozo in Greek). Faith is not a difficult work you must perform. It is simply believing that God is the "source and giver" who wants to meet your needs. This shows that God's grace is always available if we trust Him.

We are meant to "receive heaven's supply". When the blind man received his sight, he followed the Lord Jesus naturally glorifying God, demonstrating that transformation comes from encountering God's goodness and grace by faith, not from following strict rules. Instead of trying to perform or work to earn God's blessings, we rest in His unmerited favor by faith and allow His grace to empower you and I. Gratefulness and worship draw people of faith to praise God. In the epistle of Apostle Paul, Scriptures say as it is written: “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 2:1-3 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:40-41 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight.” (Luke 18:40-41 KJV).

Hearing the blind man cried for mercy, the Lord stopped! Despite being surrounded by a massive crowd, our Lord Jesus stops for one disregarded individual. The man's desperate plea shows unwavering determination. He did not let the crowd's intimidation and rebuke stop him from approaching our Lord Jesus Christ. As the Lord asks, "What do you want me to do for you?", it draws out an authentic declaration of faith. This is not a perfunctory greeting of how are you? or hi! Then ignore the response, as most people often do, that could either be “fine” or “pain”. It's an open invitation to bring our specific struggles to our Lord.

The man’s plea to regain his sight, goes beyond physical healing. These passages serve as a metaphor for spiritual blindness. It is a reminder to ask God to help you see His abounding grace, understand His will for your life, and view the world through the eyes of faith rather than human limitations. This man’s desire is borne out of faith in grace to see God’s goodness. The Psalmist testifies for our reminder, as it is written: “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” (Psalms 27:13 NIV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:38-39 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.” (Luke 18:38-39 KJV).

As we continue to reflect on these passages through the lens of the Lord’s gospel of grace, we see the work of power of crying for mercy. We observe the blind man humbles before the Lord Jesus, not boasting of his own goodness or good deeds (unlike the self-righteous Rich Young Ruler earlier in Luke 18:18-30). Instead, he threw himself fully upon the mercy of the Lord - calling Him by His human royal lineage as Son of David, revealing his knowledge that the Messiah comes through the line of King David. Yes, he yields to the Lord’s mercy and grace. It is in the context that mercy is not getting the bad things one deserves (sickness, disability like blindness, or penalty of sin), and grace is to receive the good things one doesn't deserve. When you are at the end of your own strength, crying out for mercy is what attracts God's compassion.

The crowd, representing the law and the religious system, rebuke the man to be quiet and stop making a scene. The religious system and the Law can only condemn. It makes you feel like an outcast and unwelcome when you need help. The blind man who is in the proximity of the Person of Grace refused to let the crowd silence him and instead shouted all the more. This is to encourage us believers to be bold in our prayers. We are to stand by faith in the finished work of Christ Jesus our Lord on the cross - resting in His grace. The Scriptures remind: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:35-37 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: and hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.” (Luke 18:35-37 KJV).

Luke is about to wind down his “travelogue” of the Lord’s journey towards Jerusalem. The Lord is around the area near Jericho (a distance of nine hours on foot to Jerusalem), with a blind beggar on the side of the road. The blind man hears a commotion of people passing by which alerted him of a major activity happening.

This beggar is in a unique vantage point. He couldn’t see, but he hears clearly to get a grasp of what’s unfolding and which is useful to gain access into believing, as scriptures say: faith comes by hearing. When a person loses one of his major sense, like seeing, the remaining senses magnify its sensory ability and capability. So, he knows and accepts the blunt truths of what he has heard about the Lord Jesus Christ. Hearing is one of his effective and reliable tool of knowing and believing. As a blind man, he doesn’t have to seek visual signs to believe, like the Pharisees and other religious people do.

When this blind man asks the passers-by what’s going on? They answer, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by". From all he's heard, this man named Jesus is the promised fulfillment of God's covenant with David—He is the Son of David! Apparently, he has also heard that the Lord Jesus can heal. From what he has heard, certainly it planted a seed of belief in the Lord Jesus Christ in his heart. That’s all he needs. And we too, being children of God to have become children of God, we only need to hear His words. Hence, it is of a paramount importance for us not to disregard using our ears to hear. With an ear to hear, we are blessed! As it is written: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:31-34 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: and they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.” (Luke 18:31-34 KJV).

In these passages, our Lord Jesus takes His disciples aside and tells them in the third person perspective that everything written by the prophets in the Old Testament concerning Him will be fulfilled in Jerusalem. He details His impending suffering: He will be delivered to the Gentiles, mocked, insulted, spit upon, flogged, and killed, but He will rise on the third day. Without the benefit of hindsight and under the era of the work-based mindset, the scripture notes that the disciples understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them in that moment, though will be brought to their remembrance later. The Holy Spirit who comes at the Pentecost will teach them and us, who now believe, all truth.

Viewed through the lens of the gospel of the grace of God, these passages emphasize several points of truth. These highlight the imminent fulfillment of the demands of the covenant of the law, and the ushering in of the supply of the covenant of grace. The Lord was killed - not as a victim of murder, but as an intentionally appointed Savior.

When the Lord says “all things... will be accomplished,” it points out that He knew exactly what He was walking into. He boldly faced the cross to endure the mocking, scourging, and death —because He knew His sacrifice was the only way to completely pay the sins of humanity once and for all. It is written that, “For even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”” (Mark 10:45; Matthew 20:28 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:28-30 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.” (Luke 18:28-30 KJV).

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. There are thousands of decisions we make daily in our lives which lead us to where we are in our state of being in the now and where we will be, forever. Here, we have a very reassuring revelation for us to decide: we can’t out-give God! Apostle Peter reacted with declaration of their decisive response to the Lord’s call: Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." “At once they left their nets and followed him.” “They left all and followed the Lord.” (Matthew 4:19-20; Mark 1:17-18).

The Lord’s follow through response to Apostle Peter, further reassures that no matter what you decide to give up for His Kingdom, the blessings He provides far outweigh the loss for what you give up. It gives a picture of seed time and harvest. You give up and lose a seed buried in the ground, for exponential return of manifold seeds at the time of harvest.

Blessings abound to you and I, in this present life and in life everlasting, when we make that core decision driven by love to give God our life to be loved by Him. Lord Jesus said: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:37-39 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:26-27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved? And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” (Luke 18:26-27 KJV).

In the midst of the Lord’s teaching of the impossibility for the rich to enter God’s kingdom, those who heard it, including the disciples, were shocked and asked - "Who then can be saved?" For a person driven to strive his best this is a question of wonder. Or, perhaps, this is somehow a question of someone not listening, as the Lord has emphatically said - “sell all your possessions and come follow me!”

The rich young ruler who encounters the Lord, represents human pride and self-reliance. By trusting in his own wealth and perceived good works, he believed he could earn his way into heaven. Our Lord’s statement reaffirms that salvation is impossible to achieve through man’s self-effort, willpower, or even personal sacrifice.

We are therefore reminded, as the Lord Jesus points out, that what you cannot do on your own to be perfectly righteous, save yourself, overcome afflictions, or change a hopeless situation, God can. It is written: “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” (Romans 3:21-24 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:24-25 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:24-25 KJV).

When the Lord Jesus witnessed the rich young ruler’s reaction to His command, He said as per the Message Bible paraphrase, “Do you have any idea how difficult it is for people who have it all to enter God’s kingdom? I’d say it’s easier to thread a camel through a needle’s eye than get a rich person into God’s kingdom.” This, seriously, warns of the great risk work in self-righteousness through observance of the law and trust in one's own resources, can cost your eternal life, rather than resting in the grace of God in Christ.

The issue with the presumptive rich ruler is not his having money, but his trust in it. He loved his wealth more than God, allowing his riches to become his idol. Those who rely on their own merits, reputation, successes and their "riches”, will find it difficult to enter the kingdom of God. They’re caught in a struggle to surrender to the grace of God because they believe they have done enough on their own.

The Lord, by using the illustration that it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, tells of the impossibility for a person possessed by wealth to enter the kingdom of God. The lesson is about where the heart puts its trust—either in riches and personal ability to gain righteousness or faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ by grace.

It reminds us that righteousness is received as a gift of God through Christ Jesus. It is, therefore, fitting that we meditate on this passage always. It is written: “For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:17 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:23 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.” (Luke 18:23 KJV).

It is hard for us to grasp what’s in this rich young ruler’s heart when he asks the Lord - what shall I do to inherit eternal life? (Luke 18:28). We can just surmise based on how the interaction unfolded and by his reaction when the Lord told him what to do. As one of those who rely on self effort to work for justification and salvation by trying hard to observe the law, this rich young ruler expected an applause and commendation for his perceived accomplishments. He’s not seeking the key for inheriting eternal life. He seeks fleeting instant gratification for his best but failing effort.

In this passage, we see that sorrow is the unavoidable outcome when a person trusts in her/his own efforts and the material things he possessed. It leads to the realization that they cannot keep God's standard on their own efforts and by their possessions. The Lord’s instruction to sell all that he has was intended to bring him to the end of himself, showing him that what he would gain by following our Lord Jesus Christ far outweighs what he would physically lose. In fact, by losing the material things and other worldly paraphernalia, as he follows our Lord’s command, he not only gains eternal life, but treasures in heaven, as well. Scriptures declare, as it is written: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:22 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.” (Luke 18:22 KJV).

Going along the rich ruler’s boasting of having obeyed all the commandments and having heard such arrogant claim, our Lord Jesus says: you lacked one thing. And, He tells this young ruler: sell all your possessions, give it to the poor and follow me! Our Lord used the law in this passage to expose the man's self-righteousness. Instead of commending the ruler (as no one had and will ever fulfill the law), He gave him another standard he could not meet, proving that no one can earn eternal life through works.

The rich young ruler thought he was righteous because of his riches and his claim of obedience to the commandments. By telling him to go sell everything, the Lord Jesus exposed the young man's true idol—his possessions. It shows him and the crowd present that he fell short of true and perfect obedience. He needed grace, as we all do. His riches not scattered but hoarded, give him away. He failed bigly to keep the law. Scriptures say: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:20-21 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother. And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.” (Luke 18:20-21 KJV).

When the Lord Jesus narrated few of the commandments to this rich ruler, we witness an expose’ of arrogance in self-righteousness. The Lord used the Law not to show the way to inherit eternal life, but to highlight that human effort and rule-following cannot justify a person, ultimately driving them to need a Savior relying solely on grace. When He quoted the commandments, He was testing the man's heart, which was idolizing money, not following the law perfectly which he brags to follow from his youth. In reality, no man has ever fulfilled the demands of the law, and no one will, except our Lord Jesus Christ. He fulfilled the law for you and I who believe in Him.

While the ruler claims to have kept the commandments from his youth, which the Lord knows he hasn’t, he lacked the ultimate requirement: loving God more than anything including money, highlighting that nobody can be justified by works.

This, therefore, reminds us that we cannot keep all the laws and that we must stop trying to earn righteousness through works, but by faith (Romans 3:21-26). Let’s allow grace to transform us from the inside out. We have this call from scriptures and it is fitting for us to respond by resting on the grace of God in Christ. It is written: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:18-19 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.” (Luke 18:18-19 KJV).

Here, when a ruler calls the Lord Jesus "Good Master," the Lord is not denying His divinity. Rather, He directs the man to realize that God is only One who is good. Highlighting on “goodness”, the Lord sets this up to challenge this man's intent to get affirmation on his perceived merit to earn eternal life by his own work of righteousness, rather than relying on God.

The ruler’s question: what shall I DO to inherit eternal life, reveals his self-serving intent to brag. It exposes his reliance on the law. There’s a sense of air he may seek for the Lord to pander him with what he is doing as he calls Him Good Master. Knowing the content of this ruler’s heart, the Lord’s question, "Why do you call Me good?" was intended to lead the ruler to recognize that if He is good, then he knows that He is indeed God.

This interaction of our Lord with this ruler is framed as a crucial moment for the ruler to stop seeking salvation through works of self-righteousness. He and we, reflecting on this now, ought to listen and realize that He who this ruler is speaking with is the Source of righteousness and life. It is written the Lord Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:27-28 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:15-17 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” (Luke 18:15-17 KJV).

We are witnessing in these passages, as described by the Message Bible saying - “People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. “Let these children alone. Don’t get between them and me. These children are the kingdom’s pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.”” (Luke 18:15-17 MSG).

These emphasize receiving the Kingdom of God through simple, childlike faith rather than merit of self-effort. It means trusting in His grace and love unconditionally, just as children depend on their parents. The essence is we don’t come to God with a resume' of who we are, but rather we approach Him as who He is - our loving Creator and Redeemer. We come with a humble and trusting heart.

The Lord commands the disciples to stop shooing and let the babies come. This highlights His love for children, using them to teach us the kind of faith when we come. He’s certainly not talking of having a childish or immature attitude. It is having a "childlike spirit" the kind akin to a “Pollyanna” gladness and optimism — unquestioning trusting, humble, and sincere.

Following the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, (Luke 18:9-14), this cements the Lord’s message that salvation is a gift, not a reward for observance of God’s holy law that no one can do other than the Lord Jesus Christ, nor any religious piety. We cannot earn our place in His kingdom. We can only have it as a gift. We need His grace. We have it in Christ Jesus by faith. Scriptures remind: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:14 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 18:14 KJV).

When the Lord Jesus says that the humble tax collector went home justified rather than the proud Pharisee, He reveals the ultimate contrast between trying to earn righteousness by work of the law and receiving the gift of righteousness by grace. It is declaring that God justifies sinners based on faith by His grace, not on personal performance or effort to observe the law.

We are made aware that the law brings out the best of our efforts only to fail, while grace saves the worst of us by giving up and surrendering to God’s mercy. The tax collector was justified and declared righteous because he recognized his need for God's grace and mercy. True righteousness is a gift of God, not something earned (Romans 5:17).

We are, therefore, reminded to focus on our Lord’s sacrifice and grace rather than try hard to attain righteousness through keeping the law. Hence, this concluding line of the Lord’s parable warns: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:13 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.” (Luke 18:13 KJV).

The Lord, continuing in His parable, shows us the posture of the tax collector or publican in direct contrast to the posture of the Pharisee. The first character, who’s the Pharisee, comes to the temple to lift his eyes to God bragging about his supposedly fine character qualities and religious deeds. This second character - the tax collector also comes in the temple repentant - a distinct contrast to the posture of the Pharisee.

In the New Testament time, a "publican” refers to a Jew working for the Roman authority. He is also called a "tax collector," who has a contract with the imperial government. Tax collectors are tasked to collect specific amounts of money from their own people for the government. They are from the localities and are collecting money from fellow citizens. They are also allowed to collect their own fee, which in many cases are very exorbitant. Hence, they become quite rich and are despised by their fellow Jews. They are viewed as cohorts of the Roman occupiers.

This tax collector in the parable, however, recognizes and repents of his sin. While the Pharisee heaps admiration to himself, this tax collector is pounding his breast in sorrow. He makes God the object of his prayer. The Pharisee tries to impress God to earn favor by comparing himself to others and this tax collector; while the tax collector begs for mercy for his own sin.

The Pharisee stands proud to draw the attention of other worshipers (Matthew 6:5). The tax collector stands far off and keeps his pleading between himself and God. This man takes the Lord’s Words at its value as he prays. And, we must as well, we being children of God in Christ Jesus. It is written, the Lord says: “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:9-12 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.” (Luke 18:9-12 KJV).

This parable shows a head-on collision between self-righteousness versus reliance on God's grace. They are represented by an arrogant Pharisee and the often looked down publican or tax collector, respectively. We should note that our Lord Jesus Christ directed this story specifically to those who view themselves as righteous by their own work, and look down on others as sinners. But, in reality the self-righteous Pharisee also sins, not in his brags of fasting, and tithing, but in trusting on his own efforts rather than God’s grace.

Our Lord Jesus spoke this lesson to those who trusted on and compare their perceived work of righteousness with others they judge as sinners. This brings to light the Pharisee’s and many others’ with religious mindset based on human performance. The Pharisee boasts of his fasting and tithing, as if it matters apart from grace.

In a grace-based faith, the issue isn't that he fasted or paid tithes, but that he trusted in these actions for his standing before God, rather than relying entirely on God’s grace. His “prayer” is actually a form of self-exaltation, while demeaning everybody else, revealing a heart full of pride and of self-worship, rather than worshipping God in Christ Jesus - the Creator and Redeemer. The Lord clearly warns against this attitude, as it is written: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. For you neither enter yourselves nor allow those who would enter to go in.” (Matthew 23:12-13 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!


Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:6-8 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:6-8 KJV).

Continuing His analogy, our Lord Jesus Christ draws the attention of the crowd following Him, in His journey toward Jerusalem, to the action of the unjust judge. Despite being a scoundrel, the judge granted the pleading widow justice against her adversary.

And yes, injustice is one of the hardest things we face in this realm. We all run into persecutions directed toward us or our loved ones and it is ongoing and persistent. Most especially believers in Christ Jesus, tens of thousands face injustice, hardship, brutality, and persecution, all over the world - even as we reflect on this right now. When we face these hard times, it is difficult to believe that we will ever receive justice in such a world we are in. It is especially disturbing when those in authority and power are corrupt and are the ones treating many unfairly.

However, our Lord Jesus reminds us that the issue isn't injustice we may face now but our faith. God is the One who settles accounts and brings us justice. The real question is whether or not we'll hold on our faith and not give up under enemy fire. We must hang on! Pray for the Father to hear our pleas. We don't give up, for God will not only bring justice, but he will also bring salvation and victory.

The good news is: salvation and victory have already been done. In Christ Jesus by faith we are standing on victory grounds of His grace. Yes, the enemy is defeated. Sadly, the enemy is being cheered by its enablers, and still masquerades to hold power with  hollow words of deceits and threats just like the target of the recently concluded “epic fury”. So, let’s let the Son of Man find our faith in Him while navigating this earthly realm. In Him, death lost its sting. Scriptures affirm: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”(1 Corinthians 15:57 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:4-5 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.” (Luke 18:4-5 KJV).

These passages put us in the know that God is not like the unjust judge who only helps to get rid of a nuisance. If an unjust judge eventually responds to a widow’s nagging, how much more will a loving Heavenly Father responds to His children’s prayer? As His children in Christ Jesus, your need is the very thing that attracts God's grace. You do not come to beg and persuade a reluctant god of the world. Rather, you are coming to a loving Father who already made available the resources of heaven to help.

The lesson of the widow's constant coming, viewed as persistence by the world, to God who is full of grace, as His children, it is our faithful expression of trust on His goodness. There maybe delays of answer to our prayers or none at all. But, those are just a matter of the best timing or of what’s best for us. God has the best angle to see what we need. As demonstrated by this corrupt worldly judge, we see a contrast between God’s love and His willingness to answer prayers, rather than a blueprint for nagging by the god of the world. God is not like the unjust judge who only helps to get rid of a nuisance. If an unjust judge eventually responds to a nagging widow, how much more will a loving Heavenly Father responds to his children in need? The widow's adversary is pointing to the devil, and the justice she receives is the victory won through our Lord’s finished work on the cross.

These passages meant to encourage us all who believes to be confident in approaching God, with total dependence on His grace and will to bring about justice and supply of blessings in our lives. The Lord eagerly expects our asking. Our Lord Jesus said, as it is written: “Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” (John 16:24 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 18:1-3 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: and there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.” (Luke 18:1-3 KJV).

With these passages, the Lord Jesus is giving the opening lines of a parable specifically to teach that people "ought to pray always and not lose heart" - to "not faint" and to "not go weary". Our Lord gives the two key roles in the story. This describes a judge who "neither have fear of God nor respect of people," signifying that he is completely corrupt and uncaring. The widow, who represents those who are vulnerable, powerless and people dependent on those who have authority over them, comes to ask the judge for justice against her adversaries. And, we note that this judge is pagan, doesn't care and has no regard for anyone’s welfare.

This sets a challenging scenario for this widow who is in desperate need for help. During biblical times, widows are culturally protected and given special attention for care. But in this instance, there is indication she’s been neglected and taken advantage by her adversary. Hence, in the context of the law and religious practices, she is forced by circumstance to go by the book according to the system of the world. She sought this worldly judge’s help. That’s the world’s resource for justice, and the widow is the story’s specimen to plea for help.

As we look through these passages and the rest of the parable, we must keep rooted of being children of God by grace in Christ Jesus. This is not a call to depend in the world’s system of laws nor religions. This parable is our call to persistently pray always to our true God in Christ Jesus. We pray always in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:13-14). That is with the knowledge that our help comes from heaven not from the world. Scriptures remind, as the Psalmist testifies: “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalms 121:2 NIV). Hence, we ought to pray always, as it is written: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:37 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.” (Luke 17:37 KJV).

As the disciples were taking in all the Lord’s teaching, they ask: “Where, Lord?" That’s in regard to the coming judgment and meeting in the air. Our Lord Jesus Christ replies, "Where the body is, the vultures will be gathered (Luke 17:37b NIV).” This metaphor means that divine judgment is inevitable and self-evident, just like vultures that always find a carcass, this points to the final judgment of sinners and rapture of those who are saved by grace.

The "body" analogy does not refer to a literal dead carcass. It is the Body of Believers in Christ Jesus—specifically, the Lord Jesus Himself, who is the center of the coming gathering. We, who believe are in Him and Him in us in the Spirit. The eagles or voltures are seen as the believers who are gathered to our Lord Jesus Christ in the air, having received their new and transformed bodies.

In the context of our gift of salvation by grace through faith, this "gathering" in the clouds is a happy and glorious reunion of those who believe in our Lord Jesus Christ, where God’s Children are brought to where He is. This is the fulfillment of the Lord’s promise: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” (John 14:3 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:36 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.” (Luke 17:36 KJV).

This passage highlights the daytime scene in another part of the world when the event of the Lord’s in-a-blink-of-an-eye appearing on the clouds as He returns. This continues to give contrast of reliance on grace vs self-effort. The Lord uses in this illustration two men working on a field during daytime working hours. They represent two different scenarios. One person is "taken" or raptured, representing a believer resting in the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ and walking in grace. The other one "left" behind - represents someone relying on own works of self-righteousness, or observance of the law, or shackled by religion, who is not ready for the sudden return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The imagery of working in the field, emphasizes that the Lord's return will happen in the midst of our daily life in any moment, even now as we are reflecting this passage. The message is to not be "distracted" by the things of this world’s temporary things but be occupied in the presence of the Lord, which is the "good part" that Mary, the sister of Martha, showed us to do - resting at His feet ingesting His words (Luke 10:39).

Our take away from this is not to be fearful of being left behind, but to be in the shield of God’s grace in Christ Jesus. We must be conscious that those who are "taken" are those who have made our Lord Jesus their resting place and are not trying to earn salvation or righteousness through their own efforts.

All of us, who are victorious by faith in Christ Jesus our Lord, will be caught up with Him in the clouds. It is written: “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:52-57 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:35 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.” (Luke 17:35 KJV).

This is another passage that has been subjected to perverse attempts to use it as justification for deviant sexual lifestyles. Again, nothing in the text, culture, or original Greek version of the New Testament, even hints at such a thing. It's an obvious reference to women’s mundane daily morning task, to emphasize the sudden nature of the Lord’s return, hinting an early morning time in this part of the world when the event happens. This is what women do during the Bible era. They ground their flour to prepare meals for the day.

These women clearly live life together through at least during this moment of the Lord’s coming. They prepare meals together. They may be mother and daughter or mother-in-law and daughter-in-law as mentioned in Luke 12:53. It reveals that one follows the Lord Jesus and sadly, the other one doesn't. We're not provided specific identity as to who is "taken" and which is "left." It says that one is taken to judgment and the other is left to live in the Lord’s thousand-year reign. Or, one is taken to meet and live with the Lord, while the other is left to face the final judgments on earth.

This continues to affirm of a home and family divided. Some are saved and some are not. Salvation is not by family affiliation, nor by association with religion nor by observance of the law. It is a matter of choice to believe and to rest in God’s grace by faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hence, this is a serious reminder for those who have not believed, to believe - Now! Our Lord Jesus said: “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:17-18 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:34 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.” (Luke 17:34 KJV).

Our Lord Jesus Christ continues His warnings to all believers and followers in regard with the suddenness on that day’s or night’s rapture spectacle. He refers to that blink-of-an-eye meeting Him in the clouds. So, the event happens in a day in one place and night in another at the same moment. Here, in this scenario, the Lord Jesus describes a depth of night instance when two men sleeping deeply together in one bed. With this verse, some worldly depraved mindset view it contrary to the context of the gospel of the grace of God to justify their lifestyle of homosexuality. Absolutely and clearly, it does not. During the era of our Lord’s physical presence here on earth, large extended families often share single homes. This is still in practice today in many countries for families with limited resources. Men together and women together sharing on large separate beds or rooms. Families are packed together like sardines.

In this illustration, they are asleep signifying that it is night time in that part of the world. On that bed two family members are asleep when the Son of Man appears on the clouds, one is caught up to meet with the Lord and one is left behind. This reveals of a family divided. Sadly, not all accept the Lord’s gift of salvation.

This, therefore, is a forewarning to all, so to avoid this from happening to someone so close. Let’s all come to grace by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. This, He also warned strongly and clearly in another occasion when He proclaimed: “Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”” (Luke 12:51-53 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:31-33 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back. Remember Lot's wife. Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.” (Luke 17:31-33 KJV).

These passages serve as an encouragement for us to detach from the world and fully trust in the secure shield of our Lord’s divine grace. From today until our Lord Jesus comes, our focus should be entirely on Him. We ought not spend our time on amassing material possessions or worldly accomplishments. It could draw us to "turn back" (like Lot’s wife) to hold onto the old life or worldly treasures. By giving us the imagery of being on the housetop and in the field, the Lord warns against returning and letting our hearts be entangled with worldly offerings. We must not look back, having already left it through our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let’s take lesson out of Lot’s wife. She was a picture of someone who was physically removed from judgment (having gone out of Sodom) but her heart was still in it. She was "saved" but lost her life because she looked back with longing at the tempting city life (Genesis 19:23-26). She represents someone who has clingy attachment to the world, rather than looking forward to life in grace.

To "lose your life" is giving up trying to manage your own life. It calls for surrendering your whole being to God’s grace by faith in Christ Jesus. Trying to "save your life" is relying on your own strength to work hard to earn merit before God. To truly save it, for both your now life and eternal life, comes from abandoning self-effort and relying entirely on the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ, resting in His grace. It is, therefore, our call to trust that the Lord is our refuge, while the world around us faces tribulation. Hence, we affirm and declare: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah” (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:28-30 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” (Luke 17:28-30 KJV).

The Lord Jesus in His message of the gospel of grace, continues to convey the similar scenario of His second coming with the days of Lot in the city of Sodom. People were also busy doing their worldly affairs focused on their ungodly self-efforts of the flesh with no regard for God, as these passages described. This is not condemning work as part of physical living in this earthly realm, but a warning against a lifestyle that ignores God and relies solely on natural means.

In the days of Lot, people were engaged in their usual everyday activities. They were drinking, eating, buying, selling, building and planting. The sin was not because of the activities itself, but that they were consumed by them to the exclusion of God. They were "earth-conscious" rather than "God-conscious". There was no heavenly authority recognized then, just like the world of these days, which shows conspicuous signs of the times of the Lord’s imminent coming. Many will be caught surprised when the Lord is revealed, as they were during the destruction of Sodom. When Lot got out of the city, fire and brimstones rained from heaven. They, who were in the city, all perished (Genesis 19:23-25).

The world now, like in Sodom during Lot’s time and during the flood in the time of Noah (Genesis 7:13–16), is focused on their carnal pleasures, striving and gaining by their own effort. As children of God in Christ Jesus we, who accept His Lordship by grace, are called to a state of rest, knowing that righteousness and security are the Lord’s unmerited favors. These passages, therefore, warn the heart that has become too attached to the "fake" comforts and pursuits of this world. As God’s children we must resist, keep focus on our Lord Jesus Christ to live by grace, not by self-effort of the religious system of dos and don’ts. “Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:17 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:26-27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.” (Luke 17:26-27 KJV).

These passages compare the end times to the days of Noah, before and during the flood. The time of the Lord’s coming will be just like during Noah’s time, with everyone carrying on their business like usual. People are marrying, drinking and eating. They’re having their usual good time and merry-making right up to the day Noah boarded the Ark. They have no clue of what’s developing, they suspected nothing until the flood hit and swept them all and everything away. They’ve ignored God's warnings until judgment arrived in a flash. This emphasizes that while the world will be caught off guard by judgment, those who trust in our Lord Jesus Christ are aware and safe.

The focus of these passages is not on the inherent evil of humanity’s daily activities, but on being totally occupied with worldly matters to the point of ignoring the spiritual aspects of living. As in Noah’s time, where the earth and mankind were totally wiped out by the flood, except for Noah’s family, present day’s clueless act leads to being "left behind" when the Lord returns. The present world, like in Noah's time, is marked by people living without thought for God or the coming judgment, treating the reality of God and the end times as a myth.

The core message of the gospel of the grace of God is believing, trusting and resting in our Lord’s finished work of love by grace, rather than being consumed by worldly materialistic pursuits. We must first and foremost seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) before it’s too late. We must get in our Ark of salvation in Christ Jesus our Lord. Lest on that day, the Word of the Lord warns: ““Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left.” (Matthew 24:40-41 NLT).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:25 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.” (Luke 17:25 KJV).

This verse marks a turning point where our Lord Jesus Christ brings in the new covenant of grace. We note that the rejection of the Lord allowed Him to complete the work of suffering, dying, and rising again ushering in the free gift of righteousness and salvation, moving believers away from the need for self-effort of the law. This is brought to light through the lens of the Lord’s finished work and grace, rather than fear of condemnation under the law.

It points to the necessity of the Lord’s suffering and rejection to finish the work of redemption. "Suffering" was the ultimate sacrifice that the Lord took upon Himself to be condemned by the law that humanity deserves. The rejection refers to the generation that refuses to receive our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Messiah, during His time in flesh with humanity and even to this day. When the religious people, their “church” establishment and the world as a whole reject the message of grace, it is because they do not recognize the time of their visitation by God (John 9:29).

This is, therefore, emphasizing that our Lord Jesus completed to supply the demand for necessary work of suffering for humanity. So, now by faith in Him, we can live under grace, not condemnation of the law. The Holy Scriptures affirm: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1-4 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

The Gospel of Luke 17:22-24 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.” (Luke 17:22-24 KJV).

Through the lens of grace, we are given in these passages the message of hope and encouragement regarding the rapture (or "snatching away") of all the Lord’s redeemed, rather than a message of fear or judgment. He warns the disciples’ longing of His' physical presence, which portends to a time coming when they will desire the "days of the Son of Man" but will not see it. This marks a shift from the Lord’s present physical ministry to His upcoming absence in the flesh, pointing toward the need for faith instead of sight and His eventual eternal presence with them and us in the Spirit.

Yes, this warns that there’ll be a day when believers yearn to see the Lord comes and they won’t see Him in flesh. Many deceivers will come to say look over here and there, but we must not fall for any of those nonsense. For when He comes again, we’ll see Him. Like lighting flashing in one place it’s light is seen in another place, we’ll see Him as He comes. 

As children of God by His grace through our faith in Him, in His day we’ll be caught up with Him in the clouds by the blink of an eye. Scriptures give us this reassuring message: “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.