Tag: Jesus in the Bible

by Debbie Wicker BCCC

Introduction

Have you ever wondered if all roads really lead to heaven? It’s a question that sparks curiosity, debate, and even confusion. Many people believe in God but doubt the Bible. Others assume that being “good” is enough to secure a place in eternity. But what does the Bible really say?

As we journey through the major events of Scripture, we arrive at my favorite moment: the resurrection of Jesus. This is not just another story; it’s the central miracle of the Christian faith—the event that defines life, death, and eternity. If there’s one truth that separates Christianity from every other belief system, it is this: Jesus rose from the dead. And that changes everything.

The Miracle of the Resurrection

The Bible tells us that Jesus was crucified and, on the third day, rose from the dead. This is the most miraculous event in Scripture since the creation of the world.

“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.’”
— Matthew 28:5-6

God raised Jesus from the dead. Just as He predicted, Jesus was murdered on the cross, and on the third day, God resurrected Him. He walked the earth for forty days before ascending into heaven. To be a Christian, you must believe this truth.

Why Some Find It Hard to Believe

For many, the resurrection is difficult to accept. I’m not sure why—Jesus performed countless miracles, including raising Lazarus from the dead—but some people still refuse to believe it. They often claim that all religions are valid and that all roads lead to heaven.

In my view, this belief is both false and illogical.

Accountability Matters

If all roads led to heaven, then no one would be held accountable for their actions.

I agree that God is loving and desires for everyone to be with Him in heaven. But I also believe that He must punish wrongdoing. God alone has complete knowledge of our actions and can judge with perfect fairness.

This understanding frees me. I don’t need to seek vengeance for harm done to me because God does it better than I ever could. I can forgive and move forward, confident that God is 100% loving and 100% just. Without that assurance, my life would have been consumed with retaliation.

Some people shift the argument, claiming that “good people” go to heaven or that the universe handles justice. But vague concepts like “the universe” don’t satisfy the question of true accountability—it falls apart under scrutiny.

The Bible’s Clear Message

No, all roads do not lead to heaven.

The Bible is clear: to avoid the final judgment for your sins, you must believe that Jesus died and was raised from the dead. He was born, lived, and died on earth over 2,000 years ago. On the third day, God raised Him from the dead.

This belief is definitive: you either believe it or you don’t. There is no ambiguity, no vague “good enough” standard, and no abstract cosmic force determining your fate. This clarity is a blessing—it removes uncertainty and fear about eternity.

Jesus’ Resurrection: The Perfect Solution

The resurrection is the perfect solution to the question: What happens when I die?

God loves us and reveals exactly what happens after death. The entire Bible points to Jesus’ resurrection as the assurance of eternal life. Without it, we would live in fear and uncertainty. But because of His resurrection, we know without doubt that God is with us and that we will be with Him for eternity. That is why it is my favorite event in the Bible.

“You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”
— John 3:10-15

Conclusion

The resurrection of Jesus is more than an ancient event—it is the ultimate promise of hope, justice, and eternal life. It removes doubt, frees us from fear, and assures us that God is both perfectly loving and perfectly just.

No, all roads do not lead to heaven. But the good news is that one road does: faith in Jesus Christ. By believing in His death and resurrection, we know with certainty that eternity is not a mystery. It is a promise, a gift, and the reason we can live boldly, freely, and with confidence.

The resurrection isn’t just my favorite story in the Bible—it’s the story that gives all of us a future.

About the Author

Debbie Wicker is a Board Certified Christian Counselor who brings a thoughtful mental health perspective to the study of the Bible. With more than 15 years of counseling experience, Debbie helps individuals understand Scripture not only spiritually, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
Before entering counseling, Debbie was a partner in a Big 8 public accounting firm, where she built a successful career in management consulting. After a mid-life career change, she felt called to integrate faith and mental health — equipping others to grow spiritually while addressing real-life struggles with wisdom and compassion.

Through the-Bible.net, Debbie writes to help readers better understand God’s Word, human nature, and the transforming power of Christ.

by Debbie Wicker BCCC

We continue our journey through the Bible and arrive at one of its most painful moments: the crucifixion of Jesus.

Jesus came to earth fully God and fully man to fulfill Old Testament prophecy. He lived privately for about thirty years, then began a public ministry of teaching and healing. He proclaimed Himself the long-awaited Messiah and grew increasingly respected and influential. That prominence, however, angered the religious leaders, who began plotting His death.

The Betrayal

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of Jesus’ arrest is that it was carried out with the help of someone from His inner circle. Matthew records the moment:

“While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.’ Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed him. Jesus replied, ‘Do what you came for, friend.’ Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.” (Matthew 26:47–50)

The Severity of Betrayal

Betrayal is among the most painful human experiences. Judas Iscariot’s decision to hand Jesus over—for payment—shows how deeply sin can penetrate even the closest relationships. Jesus taught, served, and loved these men; they witnessed His miracles and heard His truth. Yet one of them chose treachery.

That reality forces us to reckon with the darkness of human nature. If betrayal can come from an intimate friend, none of us are immune. We must learn from this warning: guard our hearts, be sober about human weakness, and show compassion without naïveté.

Why Jesus Had to Go to the Cross

The betrayal and rejection Jesus endured help explain why His sacrifice was necessary. Human sinfulness—manifested even among those closest to Him—revealed the depth of brokenness in the world. God’s remedy is not another punishment but redemption through Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Belief in Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection is the means God offers to escape the final judgment due to sin. Just as God judged the world in Noah’s day for pervasive wickedness, Scripture warns of ultimate judgment for unrepented sin. Yet, through Jesus, we are offered forgiveness and a way to be spared that judgment.

A Call to Faith

Like Noah’s family, who were saved through obedience and trust, we are called to put our faith in Jesus. His betrayal by Judas and the rejection by others underscore the seriousness of sin—and the greatness of God’s gift of redemption. Turn to Christ: receive His forgiveness and the new life He offers.

About the Author

Debbie Wicker is a Board Certified Christian Counselor who brings a thoughtful mental health perspective to the study of the Bible. With more than 15 years of counseling experience, Debbie helps individuals understand Scripture not only spiritually, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
Before entering counseling, Debbie was a partner in a Big 8 public accounting firm, where she built a successful career in management consulting. After a mid-life career change, she felt called to integrate faith and mental health — equipping others to grow spiritually while addressing real-life struggles with wisdom and compassion.

Through the-Bible.net, Debbie writes to help readers better understand God’s Word, human nature, and the transforming power of Christ.

by Debbie Wicker BCCC

We continue our series on key events in the Bible. Today, we focus on a remarkable moment: Jesus entering Jerusalem to worship at the Temple for Passover—an event many know as Palm Sunday.

Jesus was a devout Jew, faithfully observing the requirements of the law, including the Passover sacrifice of a lamb. But His entry into Jerusalem was far more than a religious obligation. Riding on a donkey, Jesus fulfilled prophecy and announced to the world that He was the Messiah. He knew the suffering and betrayal that awaited Him, yet out of love for us, He came willingly.

Jesus Comes to Jerusalem as King

Matthew 21:1-11 describes the scene:

As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”

This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
“Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”

The disciples did as Jesus instructed. They brought the donkey and the colt, placing their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks and tree branches on the road, shouting:
“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the city buzzed with curiosity. “Who is this?” they asked. The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”

Jesus Came in Peace

Jesus rode in on a donkey to symbolize His peaceful mission. He came as the Messiah, approachable and available to all. Despite knowing the suffering, betrayal, and crucifixion that awaited Him, He came for us out of love.

His second coming will be very different. He will return as a king and judge, and all will recognize Him. But His first coming was marked by humility and service.

Jesus Came in Peace to Serve in Humility

Entering Jerusalem on a donkey reflected Jesus’ humility. He loved humanity so deeply that He willingly submitted to the Father’s will, even knowing the horrific fate that awaited Him. His obedience and humility are awe-inspiring—a reminder of the greatest act of love in human history.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus revealed the weight of what He was about to endure:

Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane… He began to be sorrowful and troubled. He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

He returned to His disciples and found them

He returned to His disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”

When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.

Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!” (Matthew 26:36-46 NIV)

Jesus Pleads With His Father

In Gethsemane, Jesus expressed His anguish and pleaded with God to remove the cup of suffering if possible. Yet He surrendered fully to the Father’s will, knowing that this path was the only way to redeem humanity. Imagine the sorrow of God the Father, sending His Son to endure such pain. Jesus’ willingness to face the cross demonstrates His immeasurable love and obedience.

His entry into Jerusalem on a donkey was more than a prophetic act—it was a profound demonstration of peace, humility, and sacrificial love. By understanding this, we can honor and appreciate the depth of what Jesus accomplished for each of us.

Reflection:

Palm Sunday reminds us that the Messiah came not as a conquering warrior, but as a humble servant. Jesus’ approachability, His love, and His obedience to the Father are powerful examples for us today. As we remember His first coming, we also look forward with hope to the day He returns—not in humility this time, but in glory as King of all.

About the Author

Debbie Wicker is a Board Certified Christian Counselor who brings a thoughtful mental health perspective to the study of the Bible. With more than 15 years of counseling experience, Debbie helps individuals understand Scripture not only spiritually, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
Before entering counseling, Debbie was a partner in a Big 8 public accounting firm, where she built a successful career in management consulting. After a mid-life career change, she felt called to integrate faith and mental health — equipping others to grow spiritually while addressing real-life struggles with wisdom and compassion.

Through the-Bible.net, Debbie writes to help readers better understand God’s Word, human nature, and the transforming power of Christ.

by Debbie Wicker BCCC

We are continuing our series on the major events of the Bible, transitioning now from the Old Testament to the New Testament. The birth of Jesus Christ—God’s only Son—is the first major event of the New Testament and the very reason it was written.

Jesus Changed Everything

The birth of Jesus changed the course of human history forever. Writing about Him can feel overwhelming because so much has been said over the past two thousand years. Instead of trying to cover everything, I want to highlight a few powerful truths about Jesus that are sometimes overlooked.

Jesus: The Messiah for the Jews—and More

The Old Testament centers on the Jewish people. At that time, Gentiles (non-Jews) were not included in God’s covenant. The prophets foretold the coming of a Messiah—a Deliverer—who would rescue Israel. Jesus fulfilled that promise completely.

But He did more than fulfill prophecy—He expanded it.

Through Jesus, God opened His covenant to the entire world. Salvation, relationship, and access to God were no longer limited to one group of people—they became available to everyone.

The Great Commission

Matthew 28:16–20 (NIV)
“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”

This moment marked a turning point: the message of Jesus was no longer confined—it was meant for all nations.

From Limited Access to a Personal Relationship

Before Jesus, access to God was limited. The Jewish people approached Him through a high priest, and only once a year in the most sacred setting.

After Jesus, everything changed.

Through Him, we now have direct, personal, and constant access to God—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is one of the most profound shifts in all of Scripture. Our relationship with God is no longer distant or ritual-based—it is intimate, immediate, and personal.

My Personal Journey with Jesus

My relationship with Jesus has completely transformed my life.

From the age of nine, I began turning to Him daily. I grew up in a home where both of my parents struggled with undiagnosed mental health issues. As the youngest of five children, I often felt overlooked. My home was filled with conflict, instability, and emotional hardship.

But everything changed when I learned about Jesus.

Through a simple encounter with a friend’s mom, I discovered that Jesus loved me. That truth alone carried me through some of the most difficult moments of my childhood—times of hunger, abuse, and confusion.

I began speaking to Jesus daily, asking for guidance and comfort. I was given a Ten Commandments bracelet, which helped me understand right from wrong. Even without formal church involvement or structured teaching, I experienced His presence, love, and direction in my life.

That relationship sustained me into adulthood and helped me navigate an incredibly turbulent upbringing. Because of Him, my life has been marked by joy, freedom, and purpose.

Peter Opens the Door to the Gentiles

One of Jesus’ disciples, Peter, played a crucial role in expanding the message of Christ beyond the Jewish people.

As a devout Jew, Peter did not associate with Gentiles. But after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, God called him to something radically different.

Through a vision, Peter came to understand a powerful truth:

Acts 10:34–38 (NIV)
“I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right…”

Shortly after this revelation, Peter was led to the home of Cornelius, a Gentile. There, he preached the gospel and witnessed the Holy Spirit being given to non-Jews for the first time.

This moment changed everything.

Peter’s obedience opened the door for people like me—and millions of others—to know Jesus.

Jesus Is Available to You

Because of Jesus, and because of Peter’s obedience, God is available to all of us—regardless of background, history, or circumstances.

I truly believe this: there is no problem too big for Jesus.

The Bible is not just a historical document—it is a living source of guidance, comfort, and transformation. If we are willing to seek Him, speak to Him, and listen for His guidance, our lives can be changed in ways we never imagined.

Why I Created This Website

This is why I created this website.

My goal is simple: to help people find Jesus and experience the same transformation I have experienced. When we choose to walk with Him daily, everything begins to change.

Why Many People Resist Jesus

As a Christian mental health counselor, I have spent years walking alongside others in their struggles. I do not charge for my services because I want to be available to whoever God brings into my life, for as long as they need support.

Over the past fifteen years, I have seen a consistent pattern:

Many people are unwilling to fully surrender their lives to Jesus.

I understand this struggle—I am far from perfect myself. I have made many mistakes. But I have also learned that the more I seek God’s guidance in everything I do, the more joy, peace, and freedom I experience.

An Invitation

I invite you to try something simple, yet powerful:

Talk to Jesus throughout your day.
Ask for His guidance.
Listen for His direction.

If you are willing, He will meet you where you are—and He will transform your life.

About the Author

Debbie Wicker is a Board Certified Christian Counselor who brings a thoughtful mental health perspective to the study of the Bible. With more than 15 years of counseling experience, Debbie helps individuals understand Scripture not only spiritually, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
Before entering counseling, Debbie was a partner in a Big 8 public accounting firm, where she built a successful career in management consulting. After a mid-life career change, she felt called to integrate faith and mental health — equipping others to grow spiritually while addressing real-life struggles with wisdom and compassion.

Through the-Bible.net, Debbie writes to help readers better understand God’s Word, human nature, and the transforming power of Christ.