by Jamie Pantastico | Oct 1, 2025 | Daily Encouragement, Israel |
Yom Kippur: The Day of Atonement and Its Fulfillment in Christ
Introduction
Today is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement — the holiest day in Judaism. For Israel, it is a solemn day of fasting, repentance, and sacrifice, rooted in the Mosaic covenant. But for the believer in Christ, Yom Kippur points to a greater and finished work: the once-for-all atonement accomplished at the cross.
The Old Testament Foundation
Yom Kippur is described in Leviticus 16. On this day, the high priest would:
- Offer sacrifices for his own sins and for the sins of the people.
- Enter the Holy of Holies with the blood of the sacrifice.
- Lay hands on the scapegoat, symbolically transferring Israel’s sins, and send it into the wilderness.
This was done every year because the blood of bulls and goats could never take away sins (Hebrews 10:4). It was a temporary covering (atonement = “kippur”) pointing to something greater.
Paul reminds us in Romans 15:4:
“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.”
The Old Testament is not the foundation of the Church, but it is the building block of our understanding. Without studying it, we cannot fully grasp what Christ has accomplished. Yom Kippur teaches us why we needed a better sacrifice and a perfect High Priest.
The Fulfillment in Christ
When Jesus Christ, the Son of God, shed His blood on the cross, He accomplished what Yom Kippur foreshadowed:
- Hebrews 9:12 – “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”
- Hebrews 10:10 – “By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Unlike the high priest who entered the Holy of Holies year after year, Jesus entered once with His own blood, fully satisfying God’s justice. The work is finished.
Israel’s Future and Yom Kippur
Prophetically, Yom Kippur also points to a future day when Israel will recognize their true Atonement:
- Zechariah 12:10 – “They will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son.”
At Christ’s return, Israel will experience a national day of atonement when they repent and believe on their Messiah.
What It Means for Believers Today
For us in the Body of Christ:
- We don’t wait for an annual atonement. We rest in Christ’s finished work.
- We don’t cover sins temporarily. We trust in the once-for-all payment at the cross.
- We don’t fear rejection. We rejoice in being accepted in the Beloved (Ephesians 1:6).
This is why Paul exhorts us in 2 Timothy 2:15:
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Ashamed of what? Ashamed of misrepresenting God’s Word. The One we must never shame is Christ Himself — the Author of Scripture and the One who finished the work of atonement. To mishandle His Word is to dishonor Him. To rightly divide it is to glorify Him.
Every day is a reminder that “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).
Conclusion
Yom Kippur is a holy day for Israel — but for the believer in Christ, it is a vivid picture of what Jesus accomplished once for all at the cross. As Israel fasts and reflects today, may we thank God for the eternal redemption we already have in Christ. And may we study diligently, rightly dividing the Word, so that we grow in understanding and never bring shame to the Lord who gave Himself for us.
by Jamie Pantastico | Sep 30, 2025 | Bible Prophecy, Daily Encouragement |
The Claim of “Eternal Peace”
To God be all the glory. No man can claim what belongs only to Him. The prophet said, “I am the LORD, that is My name; and My glory I will not give to another” (Isaiah 42:8). When leaders boast that they will deliver eternal peace in the Middle East, they tread on holy ground that belongs to the Prince of Peace alone (Isaiah 9:6–7). Recently, sweeping promises were made: “eternal peace in the Middle East.” Leaders congratulated one another, plans were unveiled, and applause filled the room. But Scripture is clear: no man can usurp the glory that belongs to God alone. When human rulers claim they can deliver what only Christ will bring, they rob God of the honor due to Him.
Who gets the glory?
- God does—not man. “I am the LORD, that is My name; and My glory I will not give to another” (Isa. 42:8, NKJV; cf. Isa. 48:11; Ps. 115:1).
- When any leader says or implies he will deliver “eternal peace”, that encroaches on what Scripture reserves for the Prince of Peace alone (Isa. 9:6–7). Christ will establish peace by His rule, not by human diplomacy (Isa. 2:2–4; Mic. 4:1–4; Zech. 14).
What does the Bible say about “peace” before the Day of the Lord?
- False assurances will multiply. “When they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them” (1 Thess. 5:3).
- Superficial peace is a prophetic marker: “They have also healed the hurt of My people slightly, saying, ‘Peace, peace!’ when there is no peace” (Jer. 6:14; 8:11).
- Deceptive diplomacy is foretold: “By peace he shall destroy many” (Dan. 8:25) and a coming “covenant with many” for one week that is broken midway (Dan. 9:27). I’m not assigning that prophecy to this plan—but Scripture warns that man-made peace frameworks can be instruments of deception in the last days.
Jerusalem and the nations
- God makes Jerusalem the world’s pressure point: “a cup of drunkenness…a very heavy stone for all peoples” (Zech. 12:2–3). The repeated claim to solve “the whole deal” and bring “eternal peace in the Middle East” collides with God’s warning that the nations will not resolve Jerusalem on their own terms.
- God judges nations that divide His land (Joel 3:2). Any peace formula that trades land for promises should be viewed with extreme caution.
The plan’s pillars—biblical concerns
From their own words: rapid hostages-for-amnesty exchange, outside “Board of Peace” oversight, phased Israeli withdrawals, regional security guarantees, promises of “eternal” or “everlasting” peace.
- Speed + leverage. Scripture doesn’t adjudicate the tactics, but prophetic patterns warn against premature “all clear” declarations (1 Thess. 5:3).
- Global oversight. The Bible anticipates increasing centralized control in the end times (Rev. 13). A supranational body that supervises security, movement, and governance isn’t itself the mark of the beast, but it rhymes with the trajectory Revelation describes—concentrated authority that can be weaponized.
- Amnesty + demilitarization guarantees. Human covenants are fragile (Dan. 9:27; Ps. 2:1–3). Scripture repeatedly shows trust misplaced in princes (Ps. 118:8–9).
- “Eternal peace” language. Only Christ’s kingdom brings permanent peace (Isa. 9:7; Zech. 14:9). Until He returns, Jesus said wars and rumors of wars continue (Matt. 24:6–8).
Israel’s future—why man cannot close the story
- God’s covenant purposes for Israel stand (Rom. 11:1–2, 25–29).
- End-time scenes include sieges, supernatural deliverance, and national repentance (Zech. 12:9–10; 13:8–9; 14:1–4). No human roadmap overrides this.
- Christ Himself will speak peace to the nations and rule (Zech. 9:10; Rev. 19:11–16). Any claim to finalize “eternal” peace before the King returns is overreach.
Remembering the Nature of Leaders
As we weigh the words of world leaders, we must remember that they are men—fallen men—just like us. Every ruler on earth shares the same Adamic nature we inherited from Adam (Romans 5:12). No matter how powerful their office, they remain sinners in need of grace.
That is why Scripture commands us: “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1–2).
We must pray for President Donald Trump and for the leaders of every nation. Pray that God would give them humility—to recognize their limits—and wisdom that is godly, not worldly (James 3:17). Only then can they govern with any measure of righteousness. But even then, our ultimate trust is not in men, but in the Lord who raises up kings and brings them down (Daniel 2:21).
How should believers respond?
- Discern the language. Grand phrases like “historic,” “everlasting,” and “eternal peace” sound hopeful but can numb watchfulness. Jesus told us to watch (Mark 13:33–37).
- Refuse to relocate your hope. “He Himself is our peace” (Eph. 2:14); “My peace I give to you…not as the world gives” (John 14:27).
- Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Ps. 122:6), which ultimately means praying for Messiah’s reign and the salvation God has promised (Zech. 12:10; Rom. 11:26).
- Give God the glory. Any progress that spares lives in any conflict not just the middle east is common grace, and we can be thankful. But the glory for true and lasting peace belongs to the Lord Jesus alone (Isa. 42:8).
Word of Encouragement
We rejoice at every spared life in all conflicts and take joy in every returned hostage. We pray for justice and mercy. But we will not surrender God’s glory to any man or committee. The Scriptures foretell false assurances of peace and the heavy stone of Jerusalem that no coalition can lift. Our eyes are on Christ—the Prince of Peace—who alone will establish righteous, eternal peace when He returns. Until then, we pray, we watch, and we anchor our hope in His promises.
Key Scriptures to anchor this discussion
- God’s glory alone: Isa. 42:8; Ps. 115:1
- False “peace and safety”: 1 Thess. 5:3; Jer. 6:14; 8:11; Ezek. 13:10–16
- Deceptive diplomacy: Dan. 8:25; 9:27
- Jerusalem in the last days: Zech. 12:2–3; 14:1–4
- Dividing the land: Joel 3:2
- Wars until He comes: Matt. 24:6–8
- True peace in Christ: John 14:27; Eph. 2:14; Col. 1:20
- Prince of Peace & His kingdom: Isa. 9:6–7; Mic. 4:1–4
- Hope and watchfulness: Mark 13:33–37; Ps. 122:6
by Jamie Pantastico | Sep 30, 2025 | Daily Devotional, Daily Encouragement |
In Everything Give Thanks | Devotional
1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Not For Everything, But In Everything
Paul does not tell us to give thanks for everything. He says to give thanks in everything. That’s a crucial difference many miss. As humans, when trials come—when the bills pile up, when sickness strikes, when relationships strain—thankfulness doesn’t come naturally. Our first response is often fear, frustration, or despair.
But as believers, we are called to live differently. Gratitude is not denial of pain, but an act of faith in the middle of it. We don’t thank God for evil, loss, or hardship—but we can thank Him in those moments, because He is still present, still faithful, and still working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).
Gratitude Anchors the Heart
Gratitude has a way of anchoring us in the storm. It shifts our eyes from what is lacking to what has already been given. At the very center of that gift is Christ Himself: “…the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
No matter how dark the valley, the cross and empty tomb remind us that God has already met our greatest need—salvation. Everything else we face must be seen in light of that finished work. Gratitude becomes a lens that keeps us from drowning in despair and helps us rest in His love.
The Will of God for You
So many ask, “What is God’s will for my life?” Here Paul gives a clear answer: to give thanks in everything. This is God’s will because it glorifies Him, strengthens our faith, and testifies to the world that our hope is not in circumstances but in Christ.
Encouragement for Today
Are you walking through something heavy right now? Begin with gratitude. Thank Him for breath in your lungs, for all that He has already provided for His Word, for His Spirit within you, for the promise of eternal life, and above all, for the cross. Gratitude will not erase your trial, but it will guard your heart with peace and keep your eyes fixed on the One who never fails.
📖 Reading Plan:
- Colossians 3:15–17 – Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, and be thankful.
- Philippians 4:6–7 – In everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
- Galatians 2:20 – Christ loved me and gave Himself for me.
by Jamie Pantastico | Sep 29, 2025 | Daily Devotional, Daily Encouragement |
God’s Will for You Today
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
—1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
A Call to Joy
Paul’s words are simple, but they cut to the heart of Christian living. “Rejoice always.” Joy is not anchored in our circumstances but in Christ Himself. Even in trials, we can rejoice because our salvation is secure, our Savior is present, and our hope is unshakable.
A Call to Prayer
“Pray without ceasing.” This doesn’t mean being on our knees all day, but cultivating a constant awareness of God. It’s living in conversation with Him, bringing every thought, burden, and praise before Him throughout the day. Prayer is our lifeline to strength and peace.
A Call to Gratitude
“In everything give thanks.” Not for everything, but in everything. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s lacking to what God has already provided. Even in suffering, thanksgiving reminds us of His faithfulness and renews our perspective.
God’s Will for You
So many wonder, “What is God’s will for my life?” Here Paul answers it plainly: rejoice, pray, and give thanks in Christ Jesus. This is not a burden but a gift—an invitation to live in constant fellowship with God, filled with His joy, peace, and gratitude.
Encouragement for Today
No matter what today holds—whether joy or sorrow—step into it with rejoicing lips, a prayerful heart, and a thankful spirit. This is God’s will for you, and in living it out, you’ll find strength that cannot be shaken.
📖 Reading Plan:
- Philippians 4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord always.
- Colossians 4:2 – Continue earnestly in prayer.
- Ephesians 5:20 – Give thanks always for all things.
by Jamie Pantastico | Sep 28, 2025 | Daily Encouragement, One Gospel Series |
📖 My Gospel: Paul’s God-Given Message
📖 “But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” — Galatians 1:11–12
Paul, the apostle of the Gentiles, makes it crystal clear: the gospel he preached did not come from Peter, from the Twelve, or from any man. He received it directly from the resurrected, glorified Lord Jesus Christ.
And here’s something striking—only Paul ever writes the phrase “my gospel.” Three times he claims it:
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- Romans 2:16 — “God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.”
- Romans 16:25 — “Now to Him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel…”
- 2 Timothy 2:8 — “Remember that Jesus Christ… was raised from the dead according to my gospel.”
Why would Paul say “my gospel” unless it was uniquely revealed to him? If he were preaching the same message as Peter and the Twelve, such a phrase would make no sense.
My Gospel: To Jew and Gentile
Paul’s gospel makes no distinction between Jew or Gentile. All are sinners, all are under unbelief, and all are judged by God without partiality—whether they had the law or not.
This stands in sharp contrast to the earthly ministry of Jesus and the early preaching of Peter, where the Jew still had a special standing. Paul’s message cut through all that: Jew and Gentile now stood on the same level—equally guilty, equally in need, equally offered grace.
My Gospel: To Establish
Paul says that believers are established by his gospel:
📖 “Now to Him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began…” — Romans 16:25
Paul was given a foundation no one before him had laid. He calls himself the wise masterbuilder (1 Corinthians 3:10), laying the foundation of God’s grace upon which others would build. This foundation was not law, not kingdom promises to Israel, the foundation is Jesus Christ, crucified, buried, and resurrected 3 days later. Praise God!
Resurrection According to My Gospel
Yes, the resurrection was prophesied. Yes, Peter preached it. But Paul preached it differently.
For Peter, the resurrection was proof that Jesus was the Messiah and that the kingdom was at hand.
For Paul, the resurrection was the very means of salvation and sanctification for Jew and Gentile alike.
📖 “Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel.” — 2 Timothy 2:8
The resurrection in Paul’s gospel was not just proof of who Jesus was—it was the heart of salvation itself.
Unique to Paul
Paul’s message was entirely of Christ, revealed by Christ, and centered on Christ’s finished work.
He calls it the dispensation of the grace of God given to him (Eph. 3:2; Col. 1:25). He says it was “the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began” (Rom. 16:25). He insists this gospel was committed to him first, by Christ Himself, apart from man (Gal. 1:1, 11).
Even Peter had to acknowledge this (Galatians 2:9). And in his final words before martyrdom, Peter directs believers to Paul’s letters:
📖 “…and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, as also in all his epistles…” — 2 Peter 3:15–16
Peter recognized that the Lord Jesus had given Paul wisdom—the mysteries of the dispensation of grace—and pointed his readers to Paul’s writings if they wanted to understand salvation.
Paul was the chosen vessel, the apostle to the Gentiles, entrusted with truth that had been hidden until his day (Eph. 3:2–9).
No wonder he called it “my gospel.” It was his responsibility, his stewardship, his message to proclaim to the world.
One Gospel Today
Friend, this gospel is not one of many. It is not “Paul’s opinion” or a “different flavor.” It is the one and only gospel for this present age:
✝️ Christ died for our sins.
🪦 He was buried.
🌅 He rose again the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1–4).
That is the gospel that saves Jew and Gentile alike by grace through faith—apart from works, apart from law, apart from religion.
Paul said it plainly: “If anyone preaches any other gospel… let him be accursed” (Gal. 1:9).
This is not optional. This is eternal. Believe the gospel, stand in it, and never be ashamed of it.
📖 “…in the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.” — Romans 2:16
The bottom line is this: from Cain until the very end of the human story, all mankind will be judged according to Paul’s gospel.
📖 This post is part of the One Gospel Series — weekly Sunday posts proclaiming Paul’s gospel of grace.
by Jamie Pantastico | Sep 27, 2025 | Daily Encouragement |
Devotional: More Than Conquerors
Romans 8:37 – “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Context & Connection
Romans 8 is Paul’s great crescendo of assurance for the believer. After speaking of suffering, trials, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword (Romans 8:35–36), Paul does not leave us in despair. Instead, he declares with unshakable confidence that in all these things—not apart from them, but in the very midst of them—we are more than conquerors.
Phrase by Phrase Breakdown
- “Yet in all these things” – Not outside of trials, but while walking through them. The Christian life does not promise exemption from hardship; it promises victory in the midst of it.
- “we are more than conquerors” – This is not barely scraping by. The Greek word hypernikao means “to overwhelmingly triumph.” Through Christ, the believer’s victory is complete, total, and beyond measure.
- “through Him who loved us” – Our conquering is not through self-effort, strength, or willpower. It is through Christ and His love displayed on the cross. His love secures us, sustains us, and gives us victory.
Devotional Insight
Life often feels like a battlefield—grief, temptation, persecution, and unseen spiritual forces press against us. But Paul reminds us that our identity in Christ is not victim, not survivor, but conqueror—indeed, more than conqueror. The difference is Christ Himself.
When the enemy whispers defeat, God shouts victory. When trials overwhelm, His love secures us. When the world presses in, Christ lifts us up. This verse assures us that our victory is not conditional; it is certain because it rests on His love, not our performance.
Encouragement for Today
No matter what trial you’re facing—whether sorrow, temptation, or spiritual warfare—remember: Christ has already secured the victory. You do not fight for victory but from victory. Walk today in the confidence of one who is more than a conqueror through Him who loved you.
Reading Plan
- Romans 8:31–39 – Nothing can separate us from God’s love.
- John 16:33 – Christ has overcome the world.
- 1 Corinthians 15:57 – God gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
