Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=acts%2018-19&version=NIV
Acts 19:18-20 "Many of those who believed now came and openly confessed what they had done. A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas. In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power."
What an amazing transformation among the people of Ephesus. These people fell in love with their Lord and were filled with a desire to get rid of the practices that separated them from Him. Instead of putting their trust in witchcraft and sorcery, they would now put their trust in God. They put their hope for a future in Christ rather than in fortune telling and spells.
As believers, God has a way of revealing to us and convicting us of our sinful ways. He gives us the courage and strength to clean house of the sin that gets in the way of our relationship with Him. But we have to act intentionally to rid sin from our lives. Most of us could probably benefit from a good house cleaning from time to time. Cleaning up the poisons of temptations that we’ve allowed into our lives requires action on our part. Internet sites and TV channels need to be blocked, certain books and magazines need to be trashed, language needs to be cleaned up and other bad habits and thought patterns need to be swept away.
Take some time to reflect on your own life. Are you in need of a little house cleaning. Ask God to reveal the areas of your life that need to be dumped and be intentional about following through.
today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
1st & 2nd Thessalonians
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%201-5,%202%20Thessalonians%201-3&version=NIV
Paul knew the meaning of suffering. He has been beaten, stoned, imprisoned and run out of town. He was forced out of Thessalonica, but received positive reports from Timothy regarding the perseverance of the Thessalonians' faith and love. He didn’t want the church to think that he had deserted them or that he didn’t love them, so he wrote to them in a spirit of affirmation and encouragement. With love, he cheered them on and encouraged their perseverance in the faith and in righteous living while warning them of false teachings and the need to continue their walk on the journey of sanctification.
What a wonderful example for us to follow. Because Paul had experienced suffering and discouragement, he knew the importance of affirmation. Words of encouragement and affirmation can comfort a believer like a warm cup of cocoa on a cold stormy night. Loving and nurturing words can comfort a heart in a world that has gone cold and provide just the right amount of support to spur a believer on during a storm. God always seems to send those words at just the time when we need them most.
He can use any of us in the same way that he used Paul to love and affirm fellow believers. Ask him to open your eyes to someone in need of encouragement. Maybe you know someone who is struggling with a broken marriage, but continues to put their faith in God for guidance and healing; or maybe you have a friend who is going through the storm of an illness, yet continues to praise God faithfully; or perhaps you know of a church member who is struggling with unemployment, but continues to serve joyfully at church, trusting in our sovereign Lord. Pray that He will give you genuine heartfelt words and the courage to speak words of affirmation to them. Allow Him to use you as He used Paul to spur others on through the stormy periods of life.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Paul knew the meaning of suffering. He has been beaten, stoned, imprisoned and run out of town. He was forced out of Thessalonica, but received positive reports from Timothy regarding the perseverance of the Thessalonians' faith and love. He didn’t want the church to think that he had deserted them or that he didn’t love them, so he wrote to them in a spirit of affirmation and encouragement. With love, he cheered them on and encouraged their perseverance in the faith and in righteous living while warning them of false teachings and the need to continue their walk on the journey of sanctification.
What a wonderful example for us to follow. Because Paul had experienced suffering and discouragement, he knew the importance of affirmation. Words of encouragement and affirmation can comfort a believer like a warm cup of cocoa on a cold stormy night. Loving and nurturing words can comfort a heart in a world that has gone cold and provide just the right amount of support to spur a believer on during a storm. God always seems to send those words at just the time when we need them most.
He can use any of us in the same way that he used Paul to love and affirm fellow believers. Ask him to open your eyes to someone in need of encouragement. Maybe you know someone who is struggling with a broken marriage, but continues to put their faith in God for guidance and healing; or maybe you have a friend who is going through the storm of an illness, yet continues to praise God faithfully; or perhaps you know of a church member who is struggling with unemployment, but continues to serve joyfully at church, trusting in our sovereign Lord. Pray that He will give you genuine heartfelt words and the courage to speak words of affirmation to them. Allow Him to use you as He used Paul to spur others on through the stormy periods of life.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Reasoning from the Scriptures
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2017&version=ESV
We are called to serve God with our entire beings and this includes our minds and speaking abilities. In this chapter we see Paul reaching out to various audiences and using the Old Testament as the starting point for the Jews and the altar to the unknown god for the Greeks. Paul understood that we can start the conversation about Christ by leveraging what someone already knows and believes, but that the truth of Jesus remains the same.
We are responsible for spreading the Word of God as He provides opportunities, but God alone can move the hearts of the people. Some mocked and reviled. Others listened and believed.
Paul's speech to the Greeks sums up society even now after two thousand years have passed, so I end with the last portion of his speech.
27 that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward Him and find Him. Yet He is actually not far from each one of us,
28 for
"'In Him we live and move and have our being';
as even some of your own poets have said,
"'For we are indeed His offspring.'
29 Being then God’s offspring,we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent,
31 because He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom He has appointed; and of this He has given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead."
We are called to serve God with our entire beings and this includes our minds and speaking abilities. In this chapter we see Paul reaching out to various audiences and using the Old Testament as the starting point for the Jews and the altar to the unknown god for the Greeks. Paul understood that we can start the conversation about Christ by leveraging what someone already knows and believes, but that the truth of Jesus remains the same.
We are responsible for spreading the Word of God as He provides opportunities, but God alone can move the hearts of the people. Some mocked and reviled. Others listened and believed.
Paul's speech to the Greeks sums up society even now after two thousand years have passed, so I end with the last portion of his speech.
27 that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward Him and find Him. Yet He is actually not far from each one of us,
28 for
"'In Him we live and move and have our being';
as even some of your own poets have said,
"'For we are indeed His offspring.'
29 Being then God’s offspring,we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent,
31 because He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom He has appointed; and of this He has given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead."
Sunday, November 28, 2010
What are you doing with your freedom?
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%204-6&version=NIV
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1
To any slave, I believe a proclomation of freedom, a release from bondage, must be both greatly desired and an immense blessing. The freedom that Christ brought is nothing less. Before Christ's death, God's people lived in bondage in three obvious ways. The first was bondage to the standards of the law and the sacrificial system in order to continue living under the favor of God - until Christ's death brought justification and freed us from the law.
The second was bondage to sin - even greater than what we experience because the Spirit that brings sanctification did not dwell in the hearts of the people prior to the death of Christ. Before we were justified and and sin covered, the spirit of God could not live in our sinful hearts - Christ's death purfied our hearts, making it possible for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit - freeing us from the bondage of sin.
Lastly, many of the gentile Christians were living under the bondage that other people placed on them - bondage to religious practices and rituatlistic idol worship. But Christ brought a new religion that required one simple thing - a heart that desired to be free and walk in faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
However, like the church in Galatia, we often end up in chains again, despite our freedom. Those chains we sometimes put on ourselves in the form of legalism - chains I am too familiar with. It's easy to fall into the belief that we can somehow earn God's favor and blessings, and so we put on the chains trying to please God with our obedience. In the picture of God's grace, this makes little sense. For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith - and this is not from ouselves, but it is a gift from God (Eph. 2:5). The chains of legalism serve no purpose in God's economy but rather enslave us, keeping us from a free and mercy-filled relationship with our daddy God.
We also can again become slaves to sin. Paul warns the Galatians to "not use your freedom to indulge in the sinful nature". He knows how easily sin can enslave us - and move us into the third type of chains - those chains of idol worship. When we allow ourselves to become enslaved to sin, we often become a slave to the demands of the sin we have allowed to become our master. Again, our free relationship with Christ is hindered because the sin-chains keep us from reaching Him.
But - as always in the word of God - there is good news. We aren't fighting this battle against legalism or sin or idolatry alone. No, Paul tells us that we live by the spirit, and if we live by the spirit, we will not gratify the sinful nature. The Spirit gives us the power to over come sin. The spirit gives us the ability to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. The spirit has a greater power than our flesh does to help us to walk in love-prompted obedience, not fear-prompted or obligatory obedience.
So, my friends, my question to you today is this: What are you doing with your freedom? Are you allowing yourself to put on chains of legalism? Are you using it to indulge in sin that will enslave you? Or are you walking in the Spirit?
If you want a good test to see whether your are slaves or free, check out the lists Paul provides for us in chapter 5:19-23. Do you find any of the following in your life? Be willing to be very, very honest and then ask God to create a new Spirit within you - you can be free today - this very minute:
Sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry (could be to money, success, other people), witchcraft, hatred, discored, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dessenstions, factions, eny, drunkenness, orgies.
Or, do you have fruit of a Spirit-filled heart in your life. Does this list look more like you? Ask God to increase this list in your life - to increase your fruit by the power of the Spirit. I promise that when you walk closely with him, it will happen - 100% guaranteed. Here's the fruit you can/will see:
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.
These things bring no chains - they bring total freedom. So we get to make a choice - will we live in the freedom Christ brought or will be again be burdened by a yoke of slavery. Make the choice to be free. Understand that sometimes - often - you have to make the choice every day and then walk closely to God so he can keep you free. Freedom is possible. Freedom is beautiful. Freedom is yours for the taking!
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1
To any slave, I believe a proclomation of freedom, a release from bondage, must be both greatly desired and an immense blessing. The freedom that Christ brought is nothing less. Before Christ's death, God's people lived in bondage in three obvious ways. The first was bondage to the standards of the law and the sacrificial system in order to continue living under the favor of God - until Christ's death brought justification and freed us from the law.
The second was bondage to sin - even greater than what we experience because the Spirit that brings sanctification did not dwell in the hearts of the people prior to the death of Christ. Before we were justified and and sin covered, the spirit of God could not live in our sinful hearts - Christ's death purfied our hearts, making it possible for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit - freeing us from the bondage of sin.
Lastly, many of the gentile Christians were living under the bondage that other people placed on them - bondage to religious practices and rituatlistic idol worship. But Christ brought a new religion that required one simple thing - a heart that desired to be free and walk in faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
However, like the church in Galatia, we often end up in chains again, despite our freedom. Those chains we sometimes put on ourselves in the form of legalism - chains I am too familiar with. It's easy to fall into the belief that we can somehow earn God's favor and blessings, and so we put on the chains trying to please God with our obedience. In the picture of God's grace, this makes little sense. For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith - and this is not from ouselves, but it is a gift from God (Eph. 2:5). The chains of legalism serve no purpose in God's economy but rather enslave us, keeping us from a free and mercy-filled relationship with our daddy God.
We also can again become slaves to sin. Paul warns the Galatians to "not use your freedom to indulge in the sinful nature". He knows how easily sin can enslave us - and move us into the third type of chains - those chains of idol worship. When we allow ourselves to become enslaved to sin, we often become a slave to the demands of the sin we have allowed to become our master. Again, our free relationship with Christ is hindered because the sin-chains keep us from reaching Him.
But - as always in the word of God - there is good news. We aren't fighting this battle against legalism or sin or idolatry alone. No, Paul tells us that we live by the spirit, and if we live by the spirit, we will not gratify the sinful nature. The Spirit gives us the power to over come sin. The spirit gives us the ability to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. The spirit has a greater power than our flesh does to help us to walk in love-prompted obedience, not fear-prompted or obligatory obedience.
So, my friends, my question to you today is this: What are you doing with your freedom? Are you allowing yourself to put on chains of legalism? Are you using it to indulge in sin that will enslave you? Or are you walking in the Spirit?
If you want a good test to see whether your are slaves or free, check out the lists Paul provides for us in chapter 5:19-23. Do you find any of the following in your life? Be willing to be very, very honest and then ask God to create a new Spirit within you - you can be free today - this very minute:
Sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry (could be to money, success, other people), witchcraft, hatred, discored, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dessenstions, factions, eny, drunkenness, orgies.
Or, do you have fruit of a Spirit-filled heart in your life. Does this list look more like you? Ask God to increase this list in your life - to increase your fruit by the power of the Spirit. I promise that when you walk closely with him, it will happen - 100% guaranteed. Here's the fruit you can/will see:
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.
These things bring no chains - they bring total freedom. So we get to make a choice - will we live in the freedom Christ brought or will be again be burdened by a yoke of slavery. Make the choice to be free. Understand that sometimes - often - you have to make the choice every day and then walk closely to God so he can keep you free. Freedom is possible. Freedom is beautiful. Freedom is yours for the taking!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Approved by God
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%201-3&version=NIV
It is so easy to get caught up in living according to the standards of the world and measuring ourselves according to those standards. For men, often time those standards are related to career and success as they search for a sense of significance. Author and Psychologist Larry Crabb writes that "Nothing terrifies a man more than to think his life amounts to nothing more than a hand dipped into water and then withdrawn, with no evidence that is was ever there. A man's fear is this: Am I adequate? Do I have the weight to handle important tasks, to impact a woman, a child, a friend, in a way that affirms my value."
Men, I want you first to know that the desire to be significant is okay - in fact, I would venture to say that it is a God-given desire that is designed to drive you to be the leaders, the protectors, the warriors that you are. The desire is not one that should be nor can be killed. Indeed, the question isn't whether men should have this desire to be significant, but rather where you should look to determine how significant you are? How are you to measure your significance?
For women, the struggle is no less weighty, but the desire is different. While men long for significance, women yern for beauty. Crabb describes it as a desire for "an internal reality that makes eternal impact by drawing others to cherish and honor and protect what they see, by awakening in others their desire for ultimate beauty. Nothing terrifies a woman more thant to feel that there is nothing unique about her that another could esteem and treasure. A woman fear is this: Can I connect deeply with anyone? Is anyone safe? Will anyone sense my beauty, or is there nothing so see that others will honor or enjoy?"
Women, there is nothing wrong with the desire to be seen as beautiful, unique, treasured and esteemed, for God created you with that desire, coupled with that deeply, relational desire for connection. We cannot nor should not try to removed a desire that is God created. What we must do is look not to the world for our standard of beauty or to fill that desire.
Both men and women alike, before you continue on, I want you to take a few minutes to ponder the perfection with which God created us - especially in terms of relationship with one another. Note that God created men with the inate desire to lead, protect, to give their very lives for others. And then he created woman as a helpmate to stand behind and beside man with completely complimental desires - to be treasured, protected and esteemed - to be loved. Together they form the relationship described in Ephesians 5:22-33 - a relationship that reflects Christs and the church. The way God created us - male and female - is both very wise and absolutely perfect, declared to by God at creation to be very good.
But as we know, after the fall, sin entered into this perfect creation, creating a shadow that darkened the clarity with which man and woman could see that their desire for significance and security was found in God. And since the fall, the search for a means to fulfill these desires often leads to looking at the standards and things of the world to fill them. Yet God, in his loving wisdom, gives us words to guide us back to the truth.
Two of my favorite verses that have spoken to the very deep places in my heart where these desires reside, are found in our reading today. The first is in Galatians 1:10, as Paul speaks of his own work. He makes it clear that he has no concern over what the world - other people - think he should be or do. My prayer for each of you this day is that in Christ you would be lead to the kind of confidence found in these words. I pray that every day you would be reminded of the truth and find rest there that it is God whom you should desire to please, that only God can qualify you. Here is truth:
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
The second is Galatians 2:6 as Paul speaks of men who, by worldly standards, were seen to be important and significant. He reminds the church that signifance is found not in appearances, but in work one does for God - in the truth that one speaks to lead others to the knowledge of God. I pray also that these words would plant deeply in your heart:
"As for those who seemed to be important - whatever they were makes no difference to me. God does not judge by external appearance - those men added nothing to my message."
Paul, nor God, was concerned about what men who, by appearance seemed important, had to say. His concern was that truth be spoken. You, my friends, will feel significance beyond anything that success or beauty by worldly standards could bring, when you are working in and for the Kingdom of God. Men, there is no greater significance to be found than that which is found when one is in the center of God's will. Move away from worldly standards, stick very, very close to God, and you will find yourself working in the center of his will often. Stick very, very close to God, women, and he will created a beauty in you that is irresistable as your reflect his glory to those whose lives you touch.
There will be a day, my precious friends, when we will again have a perfect sense of significance and security - a day when all things will be made new. We wait in hope for that day. But for today, we live every day with the spirit of truth inside of us, reminding us that in Christ, we find significance, beauty, and a perfect love. Until that day, we walk every day seeking the face of God as servants of Christ, significant and secure in the work he has given for us to do that day. We walk in this truth, precious ones:
"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." - 1 Samuel 16:7
"His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put there hope in his unfailing love." - Psalm 147: 10-11
Be blessed!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
It is so easy to get caught up in living according to the standards of the world and measuring ourselves according to those standards. For men, often time those standards are related to career and success as they search for a sense of significance. Author and Psychologist Larry Crabb writes that "Nothing terrifies a man more than to think his life amounts to nothing more than a hand dipped into water and then withdrawn, with no evidence that is was ever there. A man's fear is this: Am I adequate? Do I have the weight to handle important tasks, to impact a woman, a child, a friend, in a way that affirms my value."
Men, I want you first to know that the desire to be significant is okay - in fact, I would venture to say that it is a God-given desire that is designed to drive you to be the leaders, the protectors, the warriors that you are. The desire is not one that should be nor can be killed. Indeed, the question isn't whether men should have this desire to be significant, but rather where you should look to determine how significant you are? How are you to measure your significance?
For women, the struggle is no less weighty, but the desire is different. While men long for significance, women yern for beauty. Crabb describes it as a desire for "an internal reality that makes eternal impact by drawing others to cherish and honor and protect what they see, by awakening in others their desire for ultimate beauty. Nothing terrifies a woman more thant to feel that there is nothing unique about her that another could esteem and treasure. A woman fear is this: Can I connect deeply with anyone? Is anyone safe? Will anyone sense my beauty, or is there nothing so see that others will honor or enjoy?"
Women, there is nothing wrong with the desire to be seen as beautiful, unique, treasured and esteemed, for God created you with that desire, coupled with that deeply, relational desire for connection. We cannot nor should not try to removed a desire that is God created. What we must do is look not to the world for our standard of beauty or to fill that desire.
Both men and women alike, before you continue on, I want you to take a few minutes to ponder the perfection with which God created us - especially in terms of relationship with one another. Note that God created men with the inate desire to lead, protect, to give their very lives for others. And then he created woman as a helpmate to stand behind and beside man with completely complimental desires - to be treasured, protected and esteemed - to be loved. Together they form the relationship described in Ephesians 5:22-33 - a relationship that reflects Christs and the church. The way God created us - male and female - is both very wise and absolutely perfect, declared to by God at creation to be very good.
But as we know, after the fall, sin entered into this perfect creation, creating a shadow that darkened the clarity with which man and woman could see that their desire for significance and security was found in God. And since the fall, the search for a means to fulfill these desires often leads to looking at the standards and things of the world to fill them. Yet God, in his loving wisdom, gives us words to guide us back to the truth.
Two of my favorite verses that have spoken to the very deep places in my heart where these desires reside, are found in our reading today. The first is in Galatians 1:10, as Paul speaks of his own work. He makes it clear that he has no concern over what the world - other people - think he should be or do. My prayer for each of you this day is that in Christ you would be lead to the kind of confidence found in these words. I pray that every day you would be reminded of the truth and find rest there that it is God whom you should desire to please, that only God can qualify you. Here is truth:
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
The second is Galatians 2:6 as Paul speaks of men who, by worldly standards, were seen to be important and significant. He reminds the church that signifance is found not in appearances, but in work one does for God - in the truth that one speaks to lead others to the knowledge of God. I pray also that these words would plant deeply in your heart:
"As for those who seemed to be important - whatever they were makes no difference to me. God does not judge by external appearance - those men added nothing to my message."
Paul, nor God, was concerned about what men who, by appearance seemed important, had to say. His concern was that truth be spoken. You, my friends, will feel significance beyond anything that success or beauty by worldly standards could bring, when you are working in and for the Kingdom of God. Men, there is no greater significance to be found than that which is found when one is in the center of God's will. Move away from worldly standards, stick very, very close to God, and you will find yourself working in the center of his will often. Stick very, very close to God, women, and he will created a beauty in you that is irresistable as your reflect his glory to those whose lives you touch.
There will be a day, my precious friends, when we will again have a perfect sense of significance and security - a day when all things will be made new. We wait in hope for that day. But for today, we live every day with the spirit of truth inside of us, reminding us that in Christ, we find significance, beauty, and a perfect love. Until that day, we walk every day seeking the face of God as servants of Christ, significant and secure in the work he has given for us to do that day. We walk in this truth, precious ones:
"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." - 1 Samuel 16:7
"His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put there hope in his unfailing love." - Psalm 147: 10-11
Be blessed!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Friday, November 26, 2010
Acts 15-16
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2015-16&version=ESV
In Acts chapter 15, we come to one of the most important events in the early Church, the Jerusalem Council.
At this council, some of the believers said that the Gentiles needed to be circumcised in order to be saved.
Now, we in the 21st Century Church, for the most part know that we are saved by grace through faith, but in the early church they were still fleshing this out.
Peter addresses the council, with a memorable speech where he says:
..."Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you,U)"> that by my mouth the Gentiles should hearV)"> the word ofW)"> the gospel and believe. 8And God,X)"> who knows the heart,Y)"> bore witness to them,Z)">by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, 9andAA)"> he made no distinction between us and them,AB)"> having cleansed their heartsAC)"> by faith. 10Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the testAE)"> by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciplesAF)"> that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11But we believe that we will be saved throughAI)"> the grace of the Lord Jesus,AJ)"> just as they will."
(Acts 15:7-11)
So, the Jews and Gentiles recognized each others status as being saved on the basis on the grace of God, and not on circumcision, works", etc...
As we move to chapter 16, we see this evidenced when the Philippian jailer asks Paul what he must do to be save, and Paul replies:
..."Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, youEH)"> and your household." (Acts 16:31)
By God's grace we are born again to place our faith in Christ. By God's grace we have the gift of believing in him.
Thank God to day for the grace he has bestowed upon you and your life.
"8ForQ)"> by grace you have been savedR)"> through faith. And this is not your own doing;T)"> it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
In Acts chapter 15, we come to one of the most important events in the early Church, the Jerusalem Council.
At this council, some of the believers said that the Gentiles needed to be circumcised in order to be saved.
Now, we in the 21st Century Church, for the most part know that we are saved by grace through faith, but in the early church they were still fleshing this out.
Peter addresses the council, with a memorable speech where he says:
..."Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you,U)"> that by my mouth the Gentiles should hearV)"> the word ofW)"> the gospel and believe. 8And God,X)"> who knows the heart,Y)"> bore witness to them,Z)">by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, 9andAA)"> he made no distinction between us and them,AB)"> having cleansed their heartsAC)"> by faith. 10Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the testAE)"> by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciplesAF)"> that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11But we believe that we will be saved throughAI)"> the grace of the Lord Jesus,AJ)"> just as they will."
(Acts 15:7-11)
So, the Jews and Gentiles recognized each others status as being saved on the basis on the grace of God, and not on circumcision, works", etc...
As we move to chapter 16, we see this evidenced when the Philippian jailer asks Paul what he must do to be save, and Paul replies:
..."Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, youEH)"> and your household." (Acts 16:31)
By God's grace we are born again to place our faith in Christ. By God's grace we have the gift of believing in him.
Thank God to day for the grace he has bestowed upon you and your life.
"8ForQ)"> by grace you have been savedR)"> through faith. And this is not your own doing;T)"> it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
James 1-5
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201-5&version=ESV
The book of James is our reading for today. Many have called this the Proverbs of the New Testament.
It is a great a practical book for every believer today.
In chapter 1, James writes of the role of testing and trials in the Christian life. He also writes of being a doer of the Word and just not a hearer.
In chapter 2, James writes about not having partiality toward anyone of means. He also discusses the relationship between faith and works.
In chapter 3, James discusses the use of the tongue. In chapter 4, James talks about the relationship of the Christian and the world. And in chapter 5, James talks of prayer.
Of course, you will see the topics have listed here are very abbreviated. I would invite you to read the book of James and find out all the treasures this book holds.
But as today is Thanksgiving, I would like to leave you with a verse that is so pertinent for today, and for all days of the Christian life:
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:17)
Every good gift comes from the Lord. Give thanks to Him today for this.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
The book of James is our reading for today. Many have called this the Proverbs of the New Testament.
It is a great a practical book for every believer today.
In chapter 1, James writes of the role of testing and trials in the Christian life. He also writes of being a doer of the Word and just not a hearer.
In chapter 2, James writes about not having partiality toward anyone of means. He also discusses the relationship between faith and works.
In chapter 3, James discusses the use of the tongue. In chapter 4, James talks about the relationship of the Christian and the world. And in chapter 5, James talks of prayer.
Of course, you will see the topics have listed here are very abbreviated. I would invite you to read the book of James and find out all the treasures this book holds.
But as today is Thanksgiving, I would like to leave you with a verse that is so pertinent for today, and for all days of the Christian life:
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:17)
Every good gift comes from the Lord. Give thanks to Him today for this.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Acts 13-14
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=acts%2013-14&version=NIV
As Paul and Barnabas continue their ministry, they come across opposition in many forms. In Acts 13:6-12, they met a false prophet who attempted to lead a man who was seeking the faith, away. Instead the false prophet himself ends up needing to be led. Today I have chose to share a devotional from Chuck Swindoll’s library which discusses this passage:
This was no time for Paul to be tolerant or passive. We live in a culture that virtually deifies tolerance. One lady recently said to me with a broad grin, “I love everybody; I even love the devil.” I call that “tolerance gone to seed.” Make no mistake, we’re not to love the devil, nor are we to love everything everybody does. Christ commands us to love people, even our enemies, but that doesn’t mean we shrink from standing up for righteousness.
Paul didn’t back off an inch. I can see the hair stiffening on the back of his neck as he showed his spiritual teeth and growled,
“You who are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to make crooked the straight ways of the Lord? Now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and not see the sun for a time.” And immediately a mist and a darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking those who would lead him by the hand. (Acts 13:10-11).
When he had to be firm, he stepped up. The result was magnificent. Stunned by the obvious display of God’s power and Paul’s emboldened response, the pagan official believed, and we can almost see the door to the Gentiles opened wider.
You may face similar opportunities to confront enemies of truth. They come in a number of different forms. Some are more insidious than others. My advice, when the opposition against the truth is this severe, based on Paul’s model, is that you confront it. Leave the results with God. Step up and speak out in the name of the Lord. Be certain of His protection. Don’t rush in. Pray for wisdom in the choice of your words before saying anything, and then speak boldly. The results may not be as dramatic as what happened in Cyprus, but the Lord will honor your faith. The few times I’ve had to stand this firmly against wrong, the Lord gave me a sense of near-invincible courage.
When you stand for God, you stand with God. He’s got your back. So you can stand with confidence.
As Paul and Barnabas continue their ministry, they come across opposition in many forms. In Acts 13:6-12, they met a false prophet who attempted to lead a man who was seeking the faith, away. Instead the false prophet himself ends up needing to be led. Today I have chose to share a devotional from Chuck Swindoll’s library which discusses this passage:
This was no time for Paul to be tolerant or passive. We live in a culture that virtually deifies tolerance. One lady recently said to me with a broad grin, “I love everybody; I even love the devil.” I call that “tolerance gone to seed.” Make no mistake, we’re not to love the devil, nor are we to love everything everybody does. Christ commands us to love people, even our enemies, but that doesn’t mean we shrink from standing up for righteousness.
Paul didn’t back off an inch. I can see the hair stiffening on the back of his neck as he showed his spiritual teeth and growled,
“You who are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to make crooked the straight ways of the Lord? Now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and not see the sun for a time.” And immediately a mist and a darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking those who would lead him by the hand. (Acts 13:10-11).
When he had to be firm, he stepped up. The result was magnificent. Stunned by the obvious display of God’s power and Paul’s emboldened response, the pagan official believed, and we can almost see the door to the Gentiles opened wider.
You may face similar opportunities to confront enemies of truth. They come in a number of different forms. Some are more insidious than others. My advice, when the opposition against the truth is this severe, based on Paul’s model, is that you confront it. Leave the results with God. Step up and speak out in the name of the Lord. Be certain of His protection. Don’t rush in. Pray for wisdom in the choice of your words before saying anything, and then speak boldly. The results may not be as dramatic as what happened in Cyprus, but the Lord will honor your faith. The few times I’ve had to stand this firmly against wrong, the Lord gave me a sense of near-invincible courage.
When you stand for God, you stand with God. He’s got your back. So you can stand with confidence.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Acts 11-12
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=acts%2011-12&version=NIV
In the Old Testament, we learned that God’s plan was that His salvation would reach to the ends of the earth (Isaiah 49:6). Salvation would be offered to all nations. Through the church of Acts, we see our amazing and sovereign Lord at work in fulfilling his promise. Isn’t it amazing that God used Saul first as a non believer, then as a believer? In chapter 8, on the day of Stephen’s death, Saul began to destroy the church and they scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Those who had been scattered preached wherever they went. God was able to use Saul as a persecutor to spread the gospel to far off places through these events. Now, after the conversion, God will use Saul, to spread the gospel to the Gentiles beginning in Antioch. Antioch, a largely pagan city where cults worshipped Artemis, Apollo and Astarte, would be transformed into a leading city for the spreading of the gospel.
God’s sovereignty is also seen in the success of the apostles efforts in evangelism. Acts 11:21 says ‘The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.” God empowered them through the Holy Spirit and many were saved during this time. Not only was the Holy Spirit at work in guiding the evangelism efforts, but you can be sure he was at work in the hearts of those who were saved.
We also, of course see God’s divine sovereignty with the death of Herod:
“On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.” (Acts 12:21-24).
The leader of the opposition was taken out in a very public way. Immediately, because he did not give praise to God, he was struck down. I can just imagine the looks of the faces of those people who had just praised Herod as a god and immediately watched him be destroyed. Herod did not survive, but the Word of God continued to spread and flourish. God’s plan to spread the gospel would not be thwarted then and it won’t be thwarted now. I know it seems that we live in a world of darkness (we do), but keep focused on the light. Access to the Word of God is now more available through global ministries and the internet than it ever has been before. God has granted repentance that leads to life for us all. We must continue to pray for the boldness to share the good news in our own back yards and across the world. We can trust that God’s hand will be with us in this endeavor and that he will empower us with the words to speak and the opportunities to speak.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
In the Old Testament, we learned that God’s plan was that His salvation would reach to the ends of the earth (Isaiah 49:6). Salvation would be offered to all nations. Through the church of Acts, we see our amazing and sovereign Lord at work in fulfilling his promise. Isn’t it amazing that God used Saul first as a non believer, then as a believer? In chapter 8, on the day of Stephen’s death, Saul began to destroy the church and they scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Those who had been scattered preached wherever they went. God was able to use Saul as a persecutor to spread the gospel to far off places through these events. Now, after the conversion, God will use Saul, to spread the gospel to the Gentiles beginning in Antioch. Antioch, a largely pagan city where cults worshipped Artemis, Apollo and Astarte, would be transformed into a leading city for the spreading of the gospel.
God’s sovereignty is also seen in the success of the apostles efforts in evangelism. Acts 11:21 says ‘The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.” God empowered them through the Holy Spirit and many were saved during this time. Not only was the Holy Spirit at work in guiding the evangelism efforts, but you can be sure he was at work in the hearts of those who were saved.
We also, of course see God’s divine sovereignty with the death of Herod:
“On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.” (Acts 12:21-24).
The leader of the opposition was taken out in a very public way. Immediately, because he did not give praise to God, he was struck down. I can just imagine the looks of the faces of those people who had just praised Herod as a god and immediately watched him be destroyed. Herod did not survive, but the Word of God continued to spread and flourish. God’s plan to spread the gospel would not be thwarted then and it won’t be thwarted now. I know it seems that we live in a world of darkness (we do), but keep focused on the light. Access to the Word of God is now more available through global ministries and the internet than it ever has been before. God has granted repentance that leads to life for us all. We must continue to pray for the boldness to share the good news in our own back yards and across the world. We can trust that God’s hand will be with us in this endeavor and that he will empower us with the words to speak and the opportunities to speak.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
The Good News Extends to the Gentiles
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%209-10&version=ESV
Saul is confronted by the Lord and then retreats to pray. Notice the progression of events - God summons and then man responds. God then moves in the heart of another of His servants and Ananias ministers to Saul. Although he was frightened of the persecution of Saul, Ananias listened to God's voice and healing came to Saul. This is the first example of God approaching the otherwise unapproachable. Who would have thought that the condemner of the Way of Jesus would become the chief apostle to the Gentiles?
We also see that Saul is told he will suffer from the beginning. He will appear before kings and preach to Gentiles, but there will be pain and torment along the way. This clearly shows that following Jesus is not a road to material success and worldly pleasures. Suffering is promised to all of God's children, but He who is in us is greater than the world. Remember, God is Light, God is Love, and God is Life, as the Apostle John continually reminded us in his first epistle and which Pastor Riggle helped us to see in the recent sermon series.
In chapter 10, we see that the Gentiles are now accepted into the ranks of believers and that God's Spirit was offered to them just as to the Jewish believers. There now was truly no separation between Jew and Greek as the Gentiles could now enter into God's Presence. Christ ripped the temple veil in two when He surrendered His Spirit and Acts 10 ushers the Gentiles into the Holy of Holies via Christ's sacrifice and blood.
Just as these chapters show that God is not a respecter of persons and shows no partiality, so we too must be willing to share the treasure entrusted to us. Are we like Ananias and Peter who questioned before responding to God's call, do we follow wholeheartedly from the start, or do we simply turn our backs on God's prompting?
Saul is confronted by the Lord and then retreats to pray. Notice the progression of events - God summons and then man responds. God then moves in the heart of another of His servants and Ananias ministers to Saul. Although he was frightened of the persecution of Saul, Ananias listened to God's voice and healing came to Saul. This is the first example of God approaching the otherwise unapproachable. Who would have thought that the condemner of the Way of Jesus would become the chief apostle to the Gentiles?
We also see that Saul is told he will suffer from the beginning. He will appear before kings and preach to Gentiles, but there will be pain and torment along the way. This clearly shows that following Jesus is not a road to material success and worldly pleasures. Suffering is promised to all of God's children, but He who is in us is greater than the world. Remember, God is Light, God is Love, and God is Life, as the Apostle John continually reminded us in his first epistle and which Pastor Riggle helped us to see in the recent sermon series.
In chapter 10, we see that the Gentiles are now accepted into the ranks of believers and that God's Spirit was offered to them just as to the Jewish believers. There now was truly no separation between Jew and Greek as the Gentiles could now enter into God's Presence. Christ ripped the temple veil in two when He surrendered His Spirit and Acts 10 ushers the Gentiles into the Holy of Holies via Christ's sacrifice and blood.
Just as these chapters show that God is not a respecter of persons and shows no partiality, so we too must be willing to share the treasure entrusted to us. Are we like Ananias and Peter who questioned before responding to God's call, do we follow wholeheartedly from the start, or do we simply turn our backs on God's prompting?
Sunday, November 21, 2010
So He Started Out
www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%207-8&version=NIV
I like the story of Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8:26-40) because two things are very evident in this story. First, we see the evidence of how God will lead us in very specific ways when he has a purpose he wants to accomplish through us. And if we walk in obedience grounded in faith, we can be certain that we will be used for his purpose.
In Acts 8:26, we read that an angel of the Lord told Philip to go south on a very specific road. He didn't tell Philip why he was to go or exactly where he was going, he just said go. And Philip did what I wish I always did. He didn't ask questions, he wasn't concerned about the particulars - didn't need to know where he would end up or why God was sending him. We read that his response was "So he started out".
Philip started out walking in total faith that God would lead him to where he needed to be - that he would accomplish his purpose for him. We often get so caught up in needing the know the destination, in focusing on the goal, that we forget the beauty and relationship that comes from participating in a God-lead journey that requires total trust as he reveals his purpose step-by-step. The faith the builds along the way, the deeper relationship with God that walking in trust develops, are so much better than the destination. Trusting God along a journey like this might be the hardest thing you will ever do - but God will take you - in your faith and in your work to the purpose he has for you. God did that for Philip - and he'll do it for you.
Which leads me to the second point that is important for us to know, which is when we are chasing after God, he will put the people into our lives who will go with us on the journey. God knew there was an Ethiopian who needed someone to explain God's word to him - and he put someone in his path. I can name people he's put into my life to speak specific things to me, or books that had words that would show me a truth I needed to know, or a sermon that pierced me to the very core. All of these came as God moved people to certain places at certain times, or laid something on their heart that they felt moved to write about, or gave them specific words to speak as they taught. He did all of these because, like the Ethiopian, he loves me and so greatly desires that relationship with me that he will go to any length to lead me to the truth. He loves you the same.
Be blessed my friends - take the next step - God is leading.
"I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills his purpose for me." - Psalm 57:2
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Friday, November 19, 2010
Bold prayers
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%204-6&version=NIV
When I read the believers prayer today in Acts 4:23-31, my first thought was 'Why don't we pray like that?' Such a bold, powerful prayer rose up from the believers - a prayer that was prayed not in the best of times, but at the beginning of what would be for many persecuted believers, the worst of times. What bothers me about this prayer is that as believers today, few of us have faced the persecution or opposition that was just the beginning of the battle for the church of Acts, yet we are still not compelled to pray bold and empowering prayers for speaking about the truth of God. Why don't we pray like that?
I believe there are several answers to that question. I believe the first is that our passions are more for ourselves and less for Jesus. We have not moved passed the point of drive through 'made to order and give it to me quick' prayers. We come to God with requests not for what we need to serve him, but rather for what we want for our own pleasure or comfort. We want answer, we want them quickly, and preferably in the form of a happy meal with an added toy thrown in. Yes, there are times when we make requests that have to do with serving God, but too often it's more like an after-thought - like asking him to throw in an extra side-order of fries.
The second reason many don't pray boldly is so many of us haven't really gotten to know Jesus - I mean really know him. The word would prove, I think, that those who had a personal relationship or encounter with Christ were most passionate about him and speaking boldly about his truth. Without a passion for Christ, without a full picture of his true grace and mercy, without a personal encounter, we are unlikely to have the passion that would make us seek him. Without that type of passion, we certainly won't pray bold prayers when times get tough. Jesus invites us to encounter him - ask and it will be given you, seek him and you will find him, knock and he will open the door. Invite him in and he will come and eat with you.
The third reason we don't pray bold prayers - especially those asking for the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives - is because we haven't began to understand, experience, or tap into the amazing power of the Holy Spirit. The disciples where just beginning to have a picture of the amazing power, coming to the realization of what Jesus meant when he said in John 14:12-13, "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father." Notice how they end their prayer in Acts 4:30, "Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus."
The believers prayed exactly what Jesus told them to pray for. They took him at his word, and even though they didn't have scripture to point to the way the Holy Spirit worked, they had the words and promise of Jesus. They prayed - he delivered. "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldy" (Acts 4:31).
Friends, we need to know Jesus. We need to know his way, his works, his grace, his mercy and especially his word. We need to know that nothing compares to serving him - that nothing can satisfy us more. We need to know that what he speaks is truth and that we can take him at his word. We need to know that he has not limited the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives but that he offers to us the same power he offered to the believers in the church of Acts. We need to believe that if God has given us a passionate heart to speak boldly for him, he will also equip us to do just that.
If you want to see God move, fall in love with Jesus. Allow the Spirit to build you in a passion to speak boldy about him and to serve boldy for him and for the glory of the Father. And then, when you pray in the name of Jesus that he would pour out the Holy Spirit on you as you work for him and for the glory of the Father, you MUST believe that he will do it and be obedient to his calling. Know Jesus, fall in love with him, believe him, speak of him, pray bold prayers and watch the power of the Holy Spirit work through you as it pours into the life of others. There is nothing - absolutely nothing more amazing then being in the center of God's will as you serve him.
Be blessed, my precious friends. Be bold!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
When I read the believers prayer today in Acts 4:23-31, my first thought was 'Why don't we pray like that?' Such a bold, powerful prayer rose up from the believers - a prayer that was prayed not in the best of times, but at the beginning of what would be for many persecuted believers, the worst of times. What bothers me about this prayer is that as believers today, few of us have faced the persecution or opposition that was just the beginning of the battle for the church of Acts, yet we are still not compelled to pray bold and empowering prayers for speaking about the truth of God. Why don't we pray like that?
I believe there are several answers to that question. I believe the first is that our passions are more for ourselves and less for Jesus. We have not moved passed the point of drive through 'made to order and give it to me quick' prayers. We come to God with requests not for what we need to serve him, but rather for what we want for our own pleasure or comfort. We want answer, we want them quickly, and preferably in the form of a happy meal with an added toy thrown in. Yes, there are times when we make requests that have to do with serving God, but too often it's more like an after-thought - like asking him to throw in an extra side-order of fries.
The second reason many don't pray boldly is so many of us haven't really gotten to know Jesus - I mean really know him. The word would prove, I think, that those who had a personal relationship or encounter with Christ were most passionate about him and speaking boldly about his truth. Without a passion for Christ, without a full picture of his true grace and mercy, without a personal encounter, we are unlikely to have the passion that would make us seek him. Without that type of passion, we certainly won't pray bold prayers when times get tough. Jesus invites us to encounter him - ask and it will be given you, seek him and you will find him, knock and he will open the door. Invite him in and he will come and eat with you.
The third reason we don't pray bold prayers - especially those asking for the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives - is because we haven't began to understand, experience, or tap into the amazing power of the Holy Spirit. The disciples where just beginning to have a picture of the amazing power, coming to the realization of what Jesus meant when he said in John 14:12-13, "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father." Notice how they end their prayer in Acts 4:30, "Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus."
The believers prayed exactly what Jesus told them to pray for. They took him at his word, and even though they didn't have scripture to point to the way the Holy Spirit worked, they had the words and promise of Jesus. They prayed - he delivered. "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldy" (Acts 4:31).
Friends, we need to know Jesus. We need to know his way, his works, his grace, his mercy and especially his word. We need to know that nothing compares to serving him - that nothing can satisfy us more. We need to know that what he speaks is truth and that we can take him at his word. We need to know that he has not limited the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives but that he offers to us the same power he offered to the believers in the church of Acts. We need to believe that if God has given us a passionate heart to speak boldly for him, he will also equip us to do just that.
If you want to see God move, fall in love with Jesus. Allow the Spirit to build you in a passion to speak boldy about him and to serve boldy for him and for the glory of the Father. And then, when you pray in the name of Jesus that he would pour out the Holy Spirit on you as you work for him and for the glory of the Father, you MUST believe that he will do it and be obedient to his calling. Know Jesus, fall in love with him, believe him, speak of him, pray bold prayers and watch the power of the Holy Spirit work through you as it pours into the life of others. There is nothing - absolutely nothing more amazing then being in the center of God's will as you serve him.
Be blessed, my precious friends. Be bold!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Luke 24, John 20-31
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2024,%20John%2020-31&version=ESV
As we come to the end of our daily readings of the Gospels, there are so many vivid pictures in these chapters.
In Luke 24, Jesus shows up on the Emmaus road and the text reads: "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself." (Luke 24:27)
That picture is just stunning to me. Can you imagine Jesus telling Clopas and the other individual that Isaiah 6 is referring to me? Isaiah 53 is referring to me. Isaiah 14 is referring to me. I could go on and on, and still not quote all of the OT that refers to Christ. Only Christ knows that.
Friends, this is an encouragement to study the Bible. To know the Word and understand how it prophesies about Jesus's first coming, tells us of His earthly life, tells us what His life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave means for us and to all who believe in Him, and it also tells us how we are to live Christ-like lives and that we should be prepared when He returns.
I wish I could have been there on the Emmaus Road. How rich that teaching would have been!!!
Next, we have the picture of Thomas. Doubting Thomas, as many call him. But when he recognized that Jesus had really resurrected, he called Jesus "His Lord and his God!" (John 20:28)
Thomas recoginzed that Jesus was his redeemer and Lord. That he owed his life to Christ? How about you? Are you trusting Jesus as just Savior and not Lord?
There are other pictures that could be discussed, the picture of Jesus and Mary, and the picture of Jesus with Peter - but as John writes, "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:25)
Friends, I want to leave you with probably one of the most explicit statements why the Gospel According to John was written, and by implication all of the Gospels:
"Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." (John 20:30-31)
Now you know why when some one who is not a Christian asks a Christian, "I want to start reading the Bible, where should I start?" That a lot of the time people suggest the Gospel according to John.
Share the Gospel with your friends, family, and co-workers. Share it with everyone. Let us be faithful in this command that Christ calls us to do.
" and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. " (Luke 24:46-47)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
As we come to the end of our daily readings of the Gospels, there are so many vivid pictures in these chapters.
In Luke 24, Jesus shows up on the Emmaus road and the text reads: "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself." (Luke 24:27)
That picture is just stunning to me. Can you imagine Jesus telling Clopas and the other individual that Isaiah 6 is referring to me? Isaiah 53 is referring to me. Isaiah 14 is referring to me. I could go on and on, and still not quote all of the OT that refers to Christ. Only Christ knows that.
Friends, this is an encouragement to study the Bible. To know the Word and understand how it prophesies about Jesus's first coming, tells us of His earthly life, tells us what His life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave means for us and to all who believe in Him, and it also tells us how we are to live Christ-like lives and that we should be prepared when He returns.
I wish I could have been there on the Emmaus Road. How rich that teaching would have been!!!
Next, we have the picture of Thomas. Doubting Thomas, as many call him. But when he recognized that Jesus had really resurrected, he called Jesus "His Lord and his God!" (John 20:28)
Thomas recoginzed that Jesus was his redeemer and Lord. That he owed his life to Christ? How about you? Are you trusting Jesus as just Savior and not Lord?
There are other pictures that could be discussed, the picture of Jesus and Mary, and the picture of Jesus with Peter - but as John writes, "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:25)
Friends, I want to leave you with probably one of the most explicit statements why the Gospel According to John was written, and by implication all of the Gospels:
"Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." (John 20:30-31)
Now you know why when some one who is not a Christian asks a Christian, "I want to start reading the Bible, where should I start?" That a lot of the time people suggest the Gospel according to John.
Share the Gospel with your friends, family, and co-workers. Share it with everyone. Let us be faithful in this command that Christ calls us to do.
" and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. " (Luke 24:46-47)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Matthew 28; Mark 16
Today’s passage - Matthew 28 & Mark 16: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028;%20Mark%2016&version=NIV
Matthew 28:6 “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
Matthew 28:6 is a message of hope for a future. Jesus has done just what He said He would do. He has risen from the dead. When the women met Jesus later that day, they understood that message of hope and they fell to their knees in worship. I encourage you to take time to do the same. He is risen indeed!
I’ve selected an excerpt from the daily devotionals of Stephen Trammel, Executive Pastor of Champion Forest Baptist Church for today’s post.
Are you looking for Jesus? He has risen! Death has been conquered. Sin has been atoned for. Forgiveness has been made available. Reconciliation has been established. Satan has been defeated. Hell has been invaded. Heaven has been decorated: gates of pearl, streets of transparent gold, river of the water of life, the tree of life, light from the Glory of God, light from the Lamb of God, no more night, no longer any curse, absence of tears, absence of mourning, absence of crying, absence of pain, and the presence of jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, carnilian, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst.
In a world saturated with the confetti of bad news, as followers of Jesus Christ, we have the privilege of operating on the basis of the good news of the resurrection. Jesus has risen! He is alive! The tomb is empty!
Our message to the world is a message of hope. Our message to the world is a message filled with resurrection power and a demonstration of God’s unconditional love. Just as we have experienced the reality of the resurrected Christ, we can share that wonderful news with a world living in darkness and doubt.
For the believer, everyday is Easter. We operate our lives in light of the reality of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. The grave couldn’t hold Him and death couldn’t defeat Him. Jesus conquered sin, the grave, and death. Jesus brought forth life eternal to those who believe in Him.
Are you living in light of the resurrection? Is your life a perpetual demonstration of resurrection power? Share the good news of the resurrection. Live each moment in the resurrection power God provides. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to you. You cannot live the Christian life in your own power. Righteous living requires resurrection power.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Luke 23; John 18-19
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023;%20John%2018-19&version=NIV
How can one event cause such overwhelming feelings of both joy and grief at the same time. When I reflect on the crucifixion of Christ, I am torn between these emotions. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy that Jesus paid the price for my sins. He made it possible for me to be united with Our Father in heaven for an eternity. He didn’t ask me to do anything in return, except follow Him and His father in love. I in no way deserve this perfect and wonderful gift. At the same time, my heart is filled with sadness when I consider the suffering that Christ went through for me. Completely without sin, completely innocent, He experienced the tortuous pain and humiliation of a lowly criminals’ death. He didn’t have to do it. He could have acted outside of God’s will. In fact, He even prayed in agony three times that the Lord would take the cup of wrath away from Him. Jesus suffered that day. I think sometimes we forget that because of who He is.
While Jesus was suffering on the cross, two others were suffering there with him. They represent the two types of responses to our own suffering. We can blame God and question why He doesn’t rescue us or we can acknowledge that we are sinners and don’t really deserve to be rescued and cry out for mercy in our time of need.
The words of the first thief appear in Luke 23:39: “One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
Here’s how John Piper describes that thief “The thief had no spirit of brokenness, or guilt, or penitence, or humility. He could only see Jesus as a possible power by which to escape the cross. He did not see him as a king to be followed. It never entered his mind that he should say he was sorry and should change.”
The other thief, however shows a completely different heart condition in Luke 23:40: “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
This thief shows a healthy fear and respect of God. He knew better than to go off against the Lord God Almighty. He recognized that what he had done was wrong and that his punishment was just. He also acknowledged Jesus’ innocence and His authority as King. Then he pleads for mercy. “Remember me when you come into your kingdom”
Both thieves wanted to be rescued from death, but their hearts were in completely different places. Not a word in response was mentioned toward the first thief, but to the second, Jesus replied “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43). We all struggle and suffer at some point in our lives; actually, at many points in our lives. I pray that each and every one of us has a heart like that second thief during those times.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
How can one event cause such overwhelming feelings of both joy and grief at the same time. When I reflect on the crucifixion of Christ, I am torn between these emotions. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy that Jesus paid the price for my sins. He made it possible for me to be united with Our Father in heaven for an eternity. He didn’t ask me to do anything in return, except follow Him and His father in love. I in no way deserve this perfect and wonderful gift. At the same time, my heart is filled with sadness when I consider the suffering that Christ went through for me. Completely without sin, completely innocent, He experienced the tortuous pain and humiliation of a lowly criminals’ death. He didn’t have to do it. He could have acted outside of God’s will. In fact, He even prayed in agony three times that the Lord would take the cup of wrath away from Him. Jesus suffered that day. I think sometimes we forget that because of who He is.
While Jesus was suffering on the cross, two others were suffering there with him. They represent the two types of responses to our own suffering. We can blame God and question why He doesn’t rescue us or we can acknowledge that we are sinners and don’t really deserve to be rescued and cry out for mercy in our time of need.
The words of the first thief appear in Luke 23:39: “One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
Here’s how John Piper describes that thief “The thief had no spirit of brokenness, or guilt, or penitence, or humility. He could only see Jesus as a possible power by which to escape the cross. He did not see him as a king to be followed. It never entered his mind that he should say he was sorry and should change.”
The other thief, however shows a completely different heart condition in Luke 23:40: “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
This thief shows a healthy fear and respect of God. He knew better than to go off against the Lord God Almighty. He recognized that what he had done was wrong and that his punishment was just. He also acknowledged Jesus’ innocence and His authority as King. Then he pleads for mercy. “Remember me when you come into your kingdom”
Both thieves wanted to be rescued from death, but their hearts were in completely different places. Not a word in response was mentioned toward the first thief, but to the second, Jesus replied “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43). We all struggle and suffer at some point in our lives; actually, at many points in our lives. I pray that each and every one of us has a heart like that second thief during those times.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Innocence is Convicted, Crucified, and Buried
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2027&version=ESV
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2015&version=ESV
There has only been one man who was innocent for the entire span of his life. Jesus is that man. He was fully God and fully man and these passages portray the ultimate betrayal of the creator of the world. Their very being was spoken into existence by the Almighty but the leaders spoke out and asked for Pilate to crucify the King of kings and Lord of lords.
The best way to understand the Gospel account of Christ's sacrifice is to remember the Old Testament prophecies, especially Isaiah and some of the Psalms. Christ was ever mindful of the cost of this payment for sins, yet He did not cry out in protest and He did not accuse those gathered against Him.
We see many different reactions to Jesus in these verses. Judas is remorseful but not repentant. He regrets what he has done, but he does not go to the only one that can grant him true peace. If Judas had truly been repentant, he would have sought out Jesus and asked for forgiveness. It would not have been easy but God's Hand could reach out to save even Judas if only the betrayer was truly willing to turn from his wickedness. Instead, he chose to deliver himself to death and attempted to assume the role of God by committing suicide. No matter how dark the night is, there is just hope in Christ and there is another way of escape. His suicide was the ultimate rejection of God's love as there was no more turning back from the realm of the grave.
The leaders of the Jews and Pilate allowed their pride, position, and power to control them. Even though Pilate gave lip service to removing himself from blame, his actions clearly showed that he valued expediency over the truth. The soldiers mocked and jeered, relying upon their physical power and denying the reality of a world which they could not see and touch.
Some chose to follow Christ's example. Simon of Cyrene helped bear our Lord's burden when the Savior was too fragile and too beaten to carry such a heavy load. This shows the extent of Christ's humanity and the brutality of the crucifixion. Joseph respected the body of Jesus and fulfilled Scripture by providing a new tomb. The women gathered round the cross and ministered to Him at the end just as they had ministered to Him while He was traveling across Israel.
We know their responses, but what is your response to the cross? Is it a stumbling block or a stepping stone? Does it open your eyes to the eternal where you can embrace Jesus and say, "Thank You for the Cross" or do you shut up your heart and turn your back on the only one who can truly save?
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2015&version=ESV
There has only been one man who was innocent for the entire span of his life. Jesus is that man. He was fully God and fully man and these passages portray the ultimate betrayal of the creator of the world. Their very being was spoken into existence by the Almighty but the leaders spoke out and asked for Pilate to crucify the King of kings and Lord of lords.
The best way to understand the Gospel account of Christ's sacrifice is to remember the Old Testament prophecies, especially Isaiah and some of the Psalms. Christ was ever mindful of the cost of this payment for sins, yet He did not cry out in protest and He did not accuse those gathered against Him.
We see many different reactions to Jesus in these verses. Judas is remorseful but not repentant. He regrets what he has done, but he does not go to the only one that can grant him true peace. If Judas had truly been repentant, he would have sought out Jesus and asked for forgiveness. It would not have been easy but God's Hand could reach out to save even Judas if only the betrayer was truly willing to turn from his wickedness. Instead, he chose to deliver himself to death and attempted to assume the role of God by committing suicide. No matter how dark the night is, there is just hope in Christ and there is another way of escape. His suicide was the ultimate rejection of God's love as there was no more turning back from the realm of the grave.
The leaders of the Jews and Pilate allowed their pride, position, and power to control them. Even though Pilate gave lip service to removing himself from blame, his actions clearly showed that he valued expediency over the truth. The soldiers mocked and jeered, relying upon their physical power and denying the reality of a world which they could not see and touch.
Some chose to follow Christ's example. Simon of Cyrene helped bear our Lord's burden when the Savior was too fragile and too beaten to carry such a heavy load. This shows the extent of Christ's humanity and the brutality of the crucifixion. Joseph respected the body of Jesus and fulfilled Scripture by providing a new tomb. The women gathered round the cross and ministered to Him at the end just as they had ministered to Him while He was traveling across Israel.
We know their responses, but what is your response to the cross? Is it a stumbling block or a stepping stone? Does it open your eyes to the eternal where you can embrace Jesus and say, "Thank You for the Cross" or do you shut up your heart and turn your back on the only one who can truly save?
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Jesus Is Praying For You
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014-17&version=NIV
Jesus prayed for me - and for you. Spend a few minutes meditating on that and allow the truth to sink in. Jesus prayed specifically for you, long before you were born. Do you read his prayer and take it as a 'blanket' prayer for all believers. Or do you grasp the truth that Jesus knew your name the very day he prayed the prayer we read today. Know it and believe it. He prayed for you Tonia and for you Chad. He prayed for you Christine and Karrie, for each Kelly that reads this blog. He prays for Kirby and David. He prayed for my beautiful mother and Kelly's daddy. He prayed for you Lisa and Tanya. He prayed for our friends in far away lands and for those who read this blog whose name I do not know.
I don't know the name of each one who will read this blog today - but Jesus does and he prays over you by name. He prays for relationship with him - that you would know Him, know the Father through Him, and glorify the Father through your relationship. He so deeply wants to be known by you just as he already knows you.
And he did not pray for you just once, nor did he only pray for you when he walked the earth. He still prays for you today. He is right now seated at the right hand of the father interceding on your behalf (Romans 8:34). My precious friends, I pray also for you that you would have that relationship with Christ that allows you to know and be known by him. I pray that you would know how deeply he desires for you to be with Him. I pray that you would know that you are chosen, loved, pursued by the one who gave up his life for you.
Be blessed my friends!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Jesus prayed for me - and for you. Spend a few minutes meditating on that and allow the truth to sink in. Jesus prayed specifically for you, long before you were born. Do you read his prayer and take it as a 'blanket' prayer for all believers. Or do you grasp the truth that Jesus knew your name the very day he prayed the prayer we read today. Know it and believe it. He prayed for you Tonia and for you Chad. He prayed for you Christine and Karrie, for each Kelly that reads this blog. He prays for Kirby and David. He prayed for my beautiful mother and Kelly's daddy. He prayed for you Lisa and Tanya. He prayed for our friends in far away lands and for those who read this blog whose name I do not know.
I don't know the name of each one who will read this blog today - but Jesus does and he prays over you by name. He prays for relationship with him - that you would know Him, know the Father through Him, and glorify the Father through your relationship. He so deeply wants to be known by you just as he already knows you.
And he did not pray for you just once, nor did he only pray for you when he walked the earth. He still prays for you today. He is right now seated at the right hand of the father interceding on your behalf (Romans 8:34). My precious friends, I pray also for you that you would have that relationship with Christ that allows you to know and be known by him. I pray that you would know how deeply he desires for you to be with Him. I pray that you would know that you are chosen, loved, pursued by the one who gave up his life for you.
Be blessed my friends!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Friday, November 12, 2010
Matthew 26, Mark 14
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2026,%20Mark%2014&version=ESV
Matthew 26:41 "Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus spoke these words to his disciples. Yet they could not stay awake. Their fleshly desires, in this case, the desire for sleep was greater than their desires from their spirits.
Friends, if the disciples could fall prey to the desires of the flesh on the night Jesus was crucified, how we can too!!
But if we walk in the Spirit as Paul writes in Galatians, we will not carry out the desires of the flesh.
Cultivate a life in the Spirit through prayer, reading of God's Word, serving in God's Kingdom, and fellowship in the Body of Christ.
We will always have fleshly desires, but what we must do is to not place legalistic restrictions on ourselves, and self righteous discipline. What we must strive for is to feel The Expulsive Power of a New Affection, as Thomas Chalmers wrote.
The above is a sermon which Chalmers wrote and the basic premise is that the only way to overcome sin and the flesh is to not fight them with discipline and such, but to love Christ more than your sin, and in doing such your life will reflect a Christ-likeness that it did not have when you enjoyed your sin more.
I am not doing him justice. But read the sermon, as it is a tough read, but I believe it is worth it. You'll find the link below.
http://www.monergism.com/Chalmers,%20Thomas%20-%20The%20Exlpulsive%20Power%20of%20a%20New%20Af.pdf
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Matthew 26:41 "Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus spoke these words to his disciples. Yet they could not stay awake. Their fleshly desires, in this case, the desire for sleep was greater than their desires from their spirits.
Friends, if the disciples could fall prey to the desires of the flesh on the night Jesus was crucified, how we can too!!
But if we walk in the Spirit as Paul writes in Galatians, we will not carry out the desires of the flesh.
Cultivate a life in the Spirit through prayer, reading of God's Word, serving in God's Kingdom, and fellowship in the Body of Christ.
We will always have fleshly desires, but what we must do is to not place legalistic restrictions on ourselves, and self righteous discipline. What we must strive for is to feel The Expulsive Power of a New Affection, as Thomas Chalmers wrote.
The above is a sermon which Chalmers wrote and the basic premise is that the only way to overcome sin and the flesh is to not fight them with discipline and such, but to love Christ more than your sin, and in doing such your life will reflect a Christ-likeness that it did not have when you enjoyed your sin more.
I am not doing him justice. But read the sermon, as it is a tough read, but I believe it is worth it. You'll find the link below.
http://www.monergism.com/Chalmers,%20Thomas%20-%20The%20Exlpulsive%20Power%20of%20a%20New%20Af.pdf
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Mattew 25
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025&version=ESV
Matthew 24 and 25 deal with eschatological themes, i.e. themes related to the end times.
In Matthew 24, Jesus describes the events and happenings at the time when He will return.
In Matthew 25, Jesus continues with His discussion of eschatology but now He is using parables.
He tells us of the parable of the Virgins and the parable of the Talents, and then He describes the Final Judgement.
In the parable of the Virgins, Jesus is conveying to us the message that we need "watch correctly"" and be properly prepared disciples and ready to accompany the Son of Man when He returns.
In the parable of the Talents, Jesus is conveying to us that we must use the gifts He gives us to glorify the Kingdom. We should not be lazy and not exercise our gift. For as Jesus said, "For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." (Matthew 25:29)
And in the Final Judgement, Jesus talks about the true character of those who follow Him. Those who are His true disciples will receive eternal life and those who are unrepentant and unbelieving will go away into eternal punishment.
Friends, are you ready for Jesus to return? Are you using the gifts He has given you to glorify Him and His Kingdom? And is your character reflective of a true biblical disciple of Christ?
Jesus meant for the words in chapter 25 to be penetrating and thought provoking.
Search the Scriptures, and see what it means to be prepared and to be a true disciple of Christ and to use your gifts to glorify Him.
Many in Evangelical Christianity place their eternity in a one time decision for Christ, yet the rest of their life shows no indication or fruit that their profession of faith was anything other than a false confession. I am not saying that we are not saved by grace through faith alone. But what I am saying is, as Martin Luther and the Reformers said, we are saved by grace through faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone. Meaning, that our life should be indicative of the beliefs we profess.
Being a Christian is our entire life. Reflect on this chapter today. Ask the Lord to make your heart tender towards Him and to the things of His Kingdom.
This world will pass away, but Jesus Christ is eternal. I want to live to seek and savor the supremacy of Jesus Christ in all of my life, as John Piper has often said.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Matthew 24 and 25 deal with eschatological themes, i.e. themes related to the end times.
In Matthew 24, Jesus describes the events and happenings at the time when He will return.
In Matthew 25, Jesus continues with His discussion of eschatology but now He is using parables.
He tells us of the parable of the Virgins and the parable of the Talents, and then He describes the Final Judgement.
In the parable of the Virgins, Jesus is conveying to us the message that we need "watch correctly"" and be properly prepared disciples and ready to accompany the Son of Man when He returns.
In the parable of the Talents, Jesus is conveying to us that we must use the gifts He gives us to glorify the Kingdom. We should not be lazy and not exercise our gift. For as Jesus said, "For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." (Matthew 25:29)
And in the Final Judgement, Jesus talks about the true character of those who follow Him. Those who are His true disciples will receive eternal life and those who are unrepentant and unbelieving will go away into eternal punishment.
Friends, are you ready for Jesus to return? Are you using the gifts He has given you to glorify Him and His Kingdom? And is your character reflective of a true biblical disciple of Christ?
Jesus meant for the words in chapter 25 to be penetrating and thought provoking.
Search the Scriptures, and see what it means to be prepared and to be a true disciple of Christ and to use your gifts to glorify Him.
Many in Evangelical Christianity place their eternity in a one time decision for Christ, yet the rest of their life shows no indication or fruit that their profession of faith was anything other than a false confession. I am not saying that we are not saved by grace through faith alone. But what I am saying is, as Martin Luther and the Reformers said, we are saved by grace through faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone. Meaning, that our life should be indicative of the beliefs we profess.
Being a Christian is our entire life. Reflect on this chapter today. Ask the Lord to make your heart tender towards Him and to the things of His Kingdom.
This world will pass away, but Jesus Christ is eternal. I want to live to seek and savor the supremacy of Jesus Christ in all of my life, as John Piper has often said.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Reconstructing Peter
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022,%20John%2013&version=NIV
There is much richness and information in these passages, it is nearly impossible for me to choose which to write about. I think, however, I'd like to focus on the aspect that we, or at least me, can relate most closely to - Peter's denial of Christ. I relate to Peter's faith because he wanted to so badly to follow after Christ, and yet he so often got it so wrong. It was Peter who had faith that made him willing to step out of the boat to walk on water, but he who allowed fear to take over when the waves started coming. It was Peter who wanted to stay in the mountain top experience of the transfiguration and forgot or didn't grasp the mission of Christ's ministry. Yes, Peter was often a little rash and a little impetuous in his faith, but his passion was undeniable.
I believe it was this passion that caused Satan to ask to 'sift him like wheat' because this type of passion threatened Satan's domain. I believe it was this same passion that caused God to give him permission to sift, because in the wisdom of our sovereign God, he knew this trial would be the one that would refine the rashness and impetuousness out of Peter's faith, preparing him to be the key player in the building of the church. Notice the dialogue between Peter and Jesus in Luke 22:31-34:
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."
Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
The first thing to not here is that Satan had to ask permission to sift Peter. This is an important truth to grasp - even before Jesus victory over Satan through his death on the cross, Satan could not and cannot now touch the life of a child of God without permission (see book of Job - especially Chapter 1 for another example). Our God reigns in all things! This brings up an important - and tough - question. How can a loving God permit Satan to come against one of his children? Clearly he was given permission because we know that Peter denied knowing Jesus - not once, but three times (Luke 22:54-62).
The answer, I believe, is that God was strengthening Peter for work that he would do later. He had a purpose for Peter that required a very mature faith - and this test of his faith was a refining process. More proof that this is true can be found in the words of James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." And the words Jesus himself speaks to Peter would indicate his purpose as he says, "After you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." What did Peter learn through this trial that would help him strengthen his brothers?
He learned to not over-estimate his own faith - and that God knows his faith and what is best for it better than he did. Peter was certain he was willing to die for Jesus. Jesus knew differently - he knew that Peter's faith wasn't there yet. However, this was the faith he wanted to build into Peter because later he would die for the cause of Christ. He also learned the pain of denying the God that he loved and followed with all his heart. I think we've all been there, but can you imagine denying Jesus and having him turn and look you in the eye as he did Peter? Ouch! No wonder Peter wept bitterly. I am certain he must have felt that he was a great disappointment to his Lord.
The feeling that we are a great disappointment to our Lord is something, I think, that many of us can relate to. And so the rest of Peter's story - and what he learned - is so important to explore. From the above dialogue I want to point out that although Jesus knew that Peter's faith would fail him for that time, he also knew that he would ultimately hold onto that faith because he says, "when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Friends, Jesus knows the imperfections in your faith. He knows that there are times when you will fail him. But like Peter, he will use those times to strengthen you. Like Peter, when you turn back, you are still so useful in the Kingdom of God.
Give yourself grace for your failing, precious ones, because Jesus does. He shows special consideration and compassion for Peter when he has risen again. If we jump ahead a little, we see that he tells the women at the tomb that recognize their risen Lord to, "God and tell the disciples - and Peter" (Mark 16:7). He knows that Peter needs to know that he has risen, and that he still loves him. And I love Peter's response because it is evidence that his passion for Christ remains. While the other disciples did not believe the women, "Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb (Luke 24:12)". Later on, when Christ appears on the lake shore where the disciples are fishing, Peter recognizes him and isn't willing to wait until the boat is rowed to shore, but rather, he jumps into the water and swims to meet his Savior (John 21:7). Oh how I want to be the disciple that runs to the tomb. I want to be the one who isn't content wait on others, but jumps in the water and swims to my Lord and Savior.
The story, precious ones, isn't over yet. In John 21:13-23, we see Jesus reinstate Peter and call him to feed his sheep. Note the contrast. Earlier - before his denial - when Peter tells Jesus that he would follow him where he is going, Jesus says that where he is going, Peter cannot follow. But now we hear Jesus tell Peter in John 21:19, "Follow me". Peter's faith has been refined. He has been broken and rebuilt. Everything that Satan was allowed to do in Peter's life was filtered through the fingers of a loving God with a plan and a purpose - a loving God who will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bare (1 Cor 10:13). A loving God who allows us to fail and uses our failures for His purpose and His glory. And he is also a loving God that prayers for us just as he prayed for Peter - we'll read more about that tomorrow. Peter knows this all to be true and it is from this experience that he writes these words to strengthen us, his brothers and sisters, just as Jesus commanded him to do:
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 10-11
There is much richness and information in these passages, it is nearly impossible for me to choose which to write about. I think, however, I'd like to focus on the aspect that we, or at least me, can relate most closely to - Peter's denial of Christ. I relate to Peter's faith because he wanted to so badly to follow after Christ, and yet he so often got it so wrong. It was Peter who had faith that made him willing to step out of the boat to walk on water, but he who allowed fear to take over when the waves started coming. It was Peter who wanted to stay in the mountain top experience of the transfiguration and forgot or didn't grasp the mission of Christ's ministry. Yes, Peter was often a little rash and a little impetuous in his faith, but his passion was undeniable.
I believe it was this passion that caused Satan to ask to 'sift him like wheat' because this type of passion threatened Satan's domain. I believe it was this same passion that caused God to give him permission to sift, because in the wisdom of our sovereign God, he knew this trial would be the one that would refine the rashness and impetuousness out of Peter's faith, preparing him to be the key player in the building of the church. Notice the dialogue between Peter and Jesus in Luke 22:31-34:
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."
Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
The first thing to not here is that Satan had to ask permission to sift Peter. This is an important truth to grasp - even before Jesus victory over Satan through his death on the cross, Satan could not and cannot now touch the life of a child of God without permission (see book of Job - especially Chapter 1 for another example). Our God reigns in all things! This brings up an important - and tough - question. How can a loving God permit Satan to come against one of his children? Clearly he was given permission because we know that Peter denied knowing Jesus - not once, but three times (Luke 22:54-62).
The answer, I believe, is that God was strengthening Peter for work that he would do later. He had a purpose for Peter that required a very mature faith - and this test of his faith was a refining process. More proof that this is true can be found in the words of James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." And the words Jesus himself speaks to Peter would indicate his purpose as he says, "After you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." What did Peter learn through this trial that would help him strengthen his brothers?
He learned to not over-estimate his own faith - and that God knows his faith and what is best for it better than he did. Peter was certain he was willing to die for Jesus. Jesus knew differently - he knew that Peter's faith wasn't there yet. However, this was the faith he wanted to build into Peter because later he would die for the cause of Christ. He also learned the pain of denying the God that he loved and followed with all his heart. I think we've all been there, but can you imagine denying Jesus and having him turn and look you in the eye as he did Peter? Ouch! No wonder Peter wept bitterly. I am certain he must have felt that he was a great disappointment to his Lord.
The feeling that we are a great disappointment to our Lord is something, I think, that many of us can relate to. And so the rest of Peter's story - and what he learned - is so important to explore. From the above dialogue I want to point out that although Jesus knew that Peter's faith would fail him for that time, he also knew that he would ultimately hold onto that faith because he says, "when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Friends, Jesus knows the imperfections in your faith. He knows that there are times when you will fail him. But like Peter, he will use those times to strengthen you. Like Peter, when you turn back, you are still so useful in the Kingdom of God.
Give yourself grace for your failing, precious ones, because Jesus does. He shows special consideration and compassion for Peter when he has risen again. If we jump ahead a little, we see that he tells the women at the tomb that recognize their risen Lord to, "God and tell the disciples - and Peter" (Mark 16:7). He knows that Peter needs to know that he has risen, and that he still loves him. And I love Peter's response because it is evidence that his passion for Christ remains. While the other disciples did not believe the women, "Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb (Luke 24:12)". Later on, when Christ appears on the lake shore where the disciples are fishing, Peter recognizes him and isn't willing to wait until the boat is rowed to shore, but rather, he jumps into the water and swims to meet his Savior (John 21:7). Oh how I want to be the disciple that runs to the tomb. I want to be the one who isn't content wait on others, but jumps in the water and swims to my Lord and Savior.
The story, precious ones, isn't over yet. In John 21:13-23, we see Jesus reinstate Peter and call him to feed his sheep. Note the contrast. Earlier - before his denial - when Peter tells Jesus that he would follow him where he is going, Jesus says that where he is going, Peter cannot follow. But now we hear Jesus tell Peter in John 21:19, "Follow me". Peter's faith has been refined. He has been broken and rebuilt. Everything that Satan was allowed to do in Peter's life was filtered through the fingers of a loving God with a plan and a purpose - a loving God who will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bare (1 Cor 10:13). A loving God who allows us to fail and uses our failures for His purpose and His glory. And he is also a loving God that prayers for us just as he prayed for Peter - we'll read more about that tomorrow. Peter knows this all to be true and it is from this experience that he writes these words to strengthen us, his brothers and sisters, just as Jesus commanded him to do:
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 10-11
My precious friends, I pray that you would know that Jesus knows you better than you know yourself. He knows your strengths and how he will use them and he knows your weaknesses and what needs to happen to refine them. Everything he allows into your life he can and will use for his good purposed. I pray, friends, that God would work in your life in such a way that you will be made strong, firm, and steadfast - that you would be mature and complete, lacking nothing.
Blessings to you!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Matthew 24
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2024&version=NIV
Matthew 24:35 "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. "
My journey through the word of God has truly been amazing. I’ve learned a lot about how to live and how to love. More importantly, I’ve learned a great deal about the One who gives life and how vast His love for me is. I’ve leaned on the word of God to comfort my worrisome mind. It has allowed me to rest in the knowledge that God is in control and has a beautiful plan for my life. I’ve relied on it for guidance & wisdom in the trials of life. God’s Word lifts my spirits when I’m down and reminds me that this world is temporary. It has taught me lessons on how to draw nearer to God and how to live my life according to his will. It has brought clarity to my thoughts and joy to my heart. The Word of God is truly alive and active, and it speaks to my heart whenever I allow it.
John 1:1-5 says "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Through the ages, the Word of God has survived, unchanged. The Word of God continues to come alive in the hearts and lives of believers, shining a bright light as the world becomes darker and darker. It has been attacked by both the scholarly and the ignorant, but it continues to endure. We can rest in the knowledge that the promises made in the Word of God will not pass away unrealized. The Word of God is a solid rock upon which we can stand!
We are so blessed to have free access to God through his Word. I encourage you to pray for perseverance as you continue your journey through the New Testament. Ask God to bury the treasures of his Word in your heart that you may carry them with you always. Pray that He will give you the tools to find wisdom and comfort and guidance in His Word.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Matthew 24:35 "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. "
My journey through the word of God has truly been amazing. I’ve learned a lot about how to live and how to love. More importantly, I’ve learned a great deal about the One who gives life and how vast His love for me is. I’ve leaned on the word of God to comfort my worrisome mind. It has allowed me to rest in the knowledge that God is in control and has a beautiful plan for my life. I’ve relied on it for guidance & wisdom in the trials of life. God’s Word lifts my spirits when I’m down and reminds me that this world is temporary. It has taught me lessons on how to draw nearer to God and how to live my life according to his will. It has brought clarity to my thoughts and joy to my heart. The Word of God is truly alive and active, and it speaks to my heart whenever I allow it.
John 1:1-5 says "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Through the ages, the Word of God has survived, unchanged. The Word of God continues to come alive in the hearts and lives of believers, shining a bright light as the world becomes darker and darker. It has been attacked by both the scholarly and the ignorant, but it continues to endure. We can rest in the knowledge that the promises made in the Word of God will not pass away unrealized. The Word of God is a solid rock upon which we can stand!
We are so blessed to have free access to God through his Word. I encourage you to pray for perseverance as you continue your journey through the New Testament. Ask God to bury the treasures of his Word in your heart that you may carry them with you always. Pray that He will give you the tools to find wisdom and comfort and guidance in His Word.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Monday, November 8, 2010
Mark 13
Today’s passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=mark%2013&version=NIV
Mark 13:32-37:
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”
As children of God, we look forward to the return of Christ. He will return and gather up his children from this fallen world to spend an eternity with Him in heaven. We don’t know when this will happen, but we do know that it will happen. In the meantime, he has left us with a great task. This passage reminds us that as members of the Kingdom of Heaven, we have a job to do and we shouldn’t be caught asleep on the job.
We were created to glorify God. If our time here on earth ended today, would our thoughts, actions and words for the day bring glory to our Master? If the answer is no, we need to wake up from our spiritual slumber and do some house cleaning. Otherwise, we are not fulfilling our purpose here on earth.
There are many ways to glorify the Lord through our daily tasks in our daily lives. Parents can provide a loving God centered home. At work we can conduct our business honestly and morally. As wives we can respect our husbands and as husbands we can love our wives. We can treat others with grace and kindness. We can nurture relationships with non-believers so that God can open the door for you to share the His love. We can use our God given talents and abilities to glorify Him. As church members, we can get involved in service through missions, discipleship, outreach and even sports.
But our most important job as Christians is to share the love of Jesus. We are called to minister to others. Each Christian has their own individual story of how God has transformed them, but many have never shared it or are afraid to share it or don’t know how to share it.
Take some time to reflect on your own life. Would you be caught asleep on the job if Jesus returned today? Are you glorifying Him in your daily life? Ask God to show you some ways to glorify Him– at home, at work, and while out in the community. Reflect on your own story of faith so that you can be prepared to share it. Memorize some key verses that will assist you in sharing the key points of the Christian faith such as John 3:16, Romans 3:23, 6:23 and 5:8. No one knows when our Lord will return, but we know He will. Don’t be caught asleep on the job! Draw near to the Lord in all you do and watch for His return! What a joyful day that will be.
Today’s post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Mark 13:32-37:
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”
As children of God, we look forward to the return of Christ. He will return and gather up his children from this fallen world to spend an eternity with Him in heaven. We don’t know when this will happen, but we do know that it will happen. In the meantime, he has left us with a great task. This passage reminds us that as members of the Kingdom of Heaven, we have a job to do and we shouldn’t be caught asleep on the job.
We were created to glorify God. If our time here on earth ended today, would our thoughts, actions and words for the day bring glory to our Master? If the answer is no, we need to wake up from our spiritual slumber and do some house cleaning. Otherwise, we are not fulfilling our purpose here on earth.
There are many ways to glorify the Lord through our daily tasks in our daily lives. Parents can provide a loving God centered home. At work we can conduct our business honestly and morally. As wives we can respect our husbands and as husbands we can love our wives. We can treat others with grace and kindness. We can nurture relationships with non-believers so that God can open the door for you to share the His love. We can use our God given talents and abilities to glorify Him. As church members, we can get involved in service through missions, discipleship, outreach and even sports.
But our most important job as Christians is to share the love of Jesus. We are called to minister to others. Each Christian has their own individual story of how God has transformed them, but many have never shared it or are afraid to share it or don’t know how to share it.
Take some time to reflect on your own life. Would you be caught asleep on the job if Jesus returned today? Are you glorifying Him in your daily life? Ask God to show you some ways to glorify Him– at home, at work, and while out in the community. Reflect on your own story of faith so that you can be prepared to share it. Memorize some key verses that will assist you in sharing the key points of the Christian faith such as John 3:16, Romans 3:23, 6:23 and 5:8. No one knows when our Lord will return, but we know He will. Don’t be caught asleep on the job! Draw near to the Lord in all you do and watch for His return! What a joyful day that will be.
Today’s post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Matthew 23 and Luke 20-21 - Beware the deeds of the Pharisees
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2023&version=ESV
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020-21&version=ESV
These passages show the scribes and teachers trying to trap the Messiah with their questions and how Jesus sees their hearts.
Matthew 23 brings us the words of Christ as He confronts the deeds of the Pharisees. Notice how in Matthew 23:1-4, Jesus instructs the people to practice what the Pharisees and scribes preach but not to imitate their actions. These leaders of Israel knew God's truth and were actually preaching it, but were not following God's commands. Later in this passage, we see that Christ condemns them for neglecting the spirit of the Law (mercy and justice and faithfulness) while seemingly adhering to the letter by tithing the smallest of herbs. They were willing to weigh out ounces of dill and mint, but they weren't willing to weigh their own hearts.
The Pharisees spent many hours reading and discussing the Old Testament Scriptures and interpretations by rabbis. They immersed themselves in God's Word but their actions were not bearing the fruit of all of this study. They appeared on the outside to be righteous but they were decaying on the inside. They were not a fragrant aroma but a stench to the nostrils of God Almighty.
It is easy to point fingers at the Pharisees, but how often do we want to boil down God's message into a list of rules. Honestly, it would be much easier to just have to memorize rules and live in the safety of the commandments if things were black and white. God's Love, though, is not so stale. He is a God of Power and Might and He paints the horizon and the rainbow. God's Love is messy - He breathed life into clay to create man, He poured out the waters on the earth but saved Noah, He sent His Son into the world via a virgin birth with all of the normal human processes, and Jesus went to the cross willingly but still struggled to the point of shedding tears. He rose from the dead and rolled away the stone and then appeared to the disciples and many others. Jesus showed us how to live each and every moment of our lives, and He requires that we also adhere to the spirit of His commandments, not just for outward appearances but with the inner being.
Luke 20 and 21 also echo the passage in Matthew as well as providing another example of true faith with the widow giving out of her poverty. Are we willing to go outside of ourselves and learn what it means to love sacrificially? Are we willing to listen to God or are we more likely to remain complacent in our comfortable homes while pursuing treasures that won't last?
Are we white washed tombs or are we salt and light?
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020-21&version=ESV
These passages show the scribes and teachers trying to trap the Messiah with their questions and how Jesus sees their hearts.
Matthew 23 brings us the words of Christ as He confronts the deeds of the Pharisees. Notice how in Matthew 23:1-4, Jesus instructs the people to practice what the Pharisees and scribes preach but not to imitate their actions. These leaders of Israel knew God's truth and were actually preaching it, but were not following God's commands. Later in this passage, we see that Christ condemns them for neglecting the spirit of the Law (mercy and justice and faithfulness) while seemingly adhering to the letter by tithing the smallest of herbs. They were willing to weigh out ounces of dill and mint, but they weren't willing to weigh their own hearts.
The Pharisees spent many hours reading and discussing the Old Testament Scriptures and interpretations by rabbis. They immersed themselves in God's Word but their actions were not bearing the fruit of all of this study. They appeared on the outside to be righteous but they were decaying on the inside. They were not a fragrant aroma but a stench to the nostrils of God Almighty.
It is easy to point fingers at the Pharisees, but how often do we want to boil down God's message into a list of rules. Honestly, it would be much easier to just have to memorize rules and live in the safety of the commandments if things were black and white. God's Love, though, is not so stale. He is a God of Power and Might and He paints the horizon and the rainbow. God's Love is messy - He breathed life into clay to create man, He poured out the waters on the earth but saved Noah, He sent His Son into the world via a virgin birth with all of the normal human processes, and Jesus went to the cross willingly but still struggled to the point of shedding tears. He rose from the dead and rolled away the stone and then appeared to the disciples and many others. Jesus showed us how to live each and every moment of our lives, and He requires that we also adhere to the spirit of His commandments, not just for outward appearances but with the inner being.
Luke 20 and 21 also echo the passage in Matthew as well as providing another example of true faith with the widow giving out of her poverty. Are we willing to go outside of ourselves and learn what it means to love sacrificially? Are we willing to listen to God or are we more likely to remain complacent in our comfortable homes while pursuing treasures that won't last?
Are we white washed tombs or are we salt and light?
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Loving God With Your Mind
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2022;%20Mark%2012&version=NIV
In both the Mark and Matthew chapters today we hear Jesus give what he says it the greatest or most important commandment:
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." - Mark 12:30
The concept of loving someone with all of your heart and soul is one we can easily grasp - thanks, in part - to Hollywood. We are taught by worldly standars that love is about emotion. It is about romance and butterflies and excitement, about not bearing to be apart and missing one another desparately when you are. Love is about finding that one that completes you, Hollywood tells us. Love is about finding your soul mate. Now where Hollywood got it wrong is that this is the type of love one should expect to find with their mate. That is not to say that it isn't ever there, but it isn't always there. However, that type of love - especially the longing for the other, the ability of being completed by someone, the idea of finding a soul mate is exactly the type of love we expect and find with God.
However, loving with one's mind is a much less familiar concept. It is loving someone through intellect and because that isn't very romantic, it isn't something we talk about often. And quite frankly, because we rarely love other humans with an intellectual love, it isn't something we necessarily grasp completely until we understand it within the knowledge of God and his word. This type of love has little to do with feelings. This type of love has much to do with choice. The choice to learn about someone, to know them well, and to choose to love them because of what we know about them. It is this type of love, I believe, that is foundational to faith.
Let me see if I can explain why. I once heard Chuck Swindol say that we must love God with our minds because our emotions can and will lie. When we are in circumstances that are hard - faith threatening circumstances - we cannot rely on our feelings about God to drive our faith. Because when we are in the middle of heart-rending circumstances, we often can't begin to feel the love or compassion of God, and so it becomes very hard to believe that he is either. It is then that we must love God with our intellect. We must not go by what we are feeling at the time, but by what we know about God to be true. We must make a decision to live not by what we feel, but to live by what we feel. So we must first to seek to know God and to know him well. We must seek to know his word where he reveals his character to us. And we must seek to know and understand God as he reveals himself to us. If we do not do that, we are in grave danger.
Grave danger of what, you might ask? We are in grave danger of allowing our circumstances, our emotions, and even our fleshly desires to over-ride our knowledge of God. Listen to what Scripture warns us about if we do not focus on and retain our knowledge of God: "Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done." - Romans 1:28.
We must retain our knowledge of God - it is what drives our faith. Listen to how John talks about the knowledge of God as it relates to faith. He says, "We know and rely on the love God has for us" (1 John 4:16). Notice he does not say we feel and rely - but rather we KNOW. He also says that "we know also that the Son of God has come and given us understanding so that we may know him who is true" (1 John 5:20). So we see we are to have an intellectual knowledge of God - and through that knowledge and understanding, we are able to rely on his love.
So how, then, do we love God with our minds? First, Paul tells us in Romans 12:2 that we must not allow ourselves to conform to the patterns of the world, but to be transformed by the renewing ofour minds. Renewing of our minds means that we are allowing the truth and the word of God to guard our hearts and minds. Paul had a God-given wisdom about how what we allow to occupy our minds will sooner or later determine our speech, our actions, and even our faith. So we do as instructed in Philippians 4:8-9 and take control of what our minds think of instead of giving ourselves over to depravity. Instead we think on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - anything that is excellent and praiseworthy. We put into practice anything we have learned, received, and heard form God - not relying on what we feel about him.
Friends, I want so badly to love God with my mind. It is this type of love that drives a faith that rests, 'no matter what', that believes God is the God he says that he is, 'no matter what'. That believes he will do the things he says he will do, 'no matter what', that knows I am the person he says that I am, 'no matter what', and that is certain I can do all things through Christ and his strength, 'no matter what'. I pray that we each may know and rely on the love God has for us.
Here's a little homework assignment for you: Read through the 'Hall of Faith' chapter in Hebrews 11 and consider how the faith of each person required them to love God with their minds in the midst of very tough circumstances - I pray it will it will strengthen and inspire you to learn to love God with your mind.
Blessings sweet friends!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
In both the Mark and Matthew chapters today we hear Jesus give what he says it the greatest or most important commandment:
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." - Mark 12:30
The concept of loving someone with all of your heart and soul is one we can easily grasp - thanks, in part - to Hollywood. We are taught by worldly standars that love is about emotion. It is about romance and butterflies and excitement, about not bearing to be apart and missing one another desparately when you are. Love is about finding that one that completes you, Hollywood tells us. Love is about finding your soul mate. Now where Hollywood got it wrong is that this is the type of love one should expect to find with their mate. That is not to say that it isn't ever there, but it isn't always there. However, that type of love - especially the longing for the other, the ability of being completed by someone, the idea of finding a soul mate is exactly the type of love we expect and find with God.
However, loving with one's mind is a much less familiar concept. It is loving someone through intellect and because that isn't very romantic, it isn't something we talk about often. And quite frankly, because we rarely love other humans with an intellectual love, it isn't something we necessarily grasp completely until we understand it within the knowledge of God and his word. This type of love has little to do with feelings. This type of love has much to do with choice. The choice to learn about someone, to know them well, and to choose to love them because of what we know about them. It is this type of love, I believe, that is foundational to faith.
Let me see if I can explain why. I once heard Chuck Swindol say that we must love God with our minds because our emotions can and will lie. When we are in circumstances that are hard - faith threatening circumstances - we cannot rely on our feelings about God to drive our faith. Because when we are in the middle of heart-rending circumstances, we often can't begin to feel the love or compassion of God, and so it becomes very hard to believe that he is either. It is then that we must love God with our intellect. We must not go by what we are feeling at the time, but by what we know about God to be true. We must make a decision to live not by what we feel, but to live by what we feel. So we must first to seek to know God and to know him well. We must seek to know his word where he reveals his character to us. And we must seek to know and understand God as he reveals himself to us. If we do not do that, we are in grave danger.
Grave danger of what, you might ask? We are in grave danger of allowing our circumstances, our emotions, and even our fleshly desires to over-ride our knowledge of God. Listen to what Scripture warns us about if we do not focus on and retain our knowledge of God: "Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done." - Romans 1:28.
We must retain our knowledge of God - it is what drives our faith. Listen to how John talks about the knowledge of God as it relates to faith. He says, "We know and rely on the love God has for us" (1 John 4:16). Notice he does not say we feel and rely - but rather we KNOW. He also says that "we know also that the Son of God has come and given us understanding so that we may know him who is true" (1 John 5:20). So we see we are to have an intellectual knowledge of God - and through that knowledge and understanding, we are able to rely on his love.
So how, then, do we love God with our minds? First, Paul tells us in Romans 12:2 that we must not allow ourselves to conform to the patterns of the world, but to be transformed by the renewing ofour minds. Renewing of our minds means that we are allowing the truth and the word of God to guard our hearts and minds. Paul had a God-given wisdom about how what we allow to occupy our minds will sooner or later determine our speech, our actions, and even our faith. So we do as instructed in Philippians 4:8-9 and take control of what our minds think of instead of giving ourselves over to depravity. Instead we think on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - anything that is excellent and praiseworthy. We put into practice anything we have learned, received, and heard form God - not relying on what we feel about him.
Friends, I want so badly to love God with my mind. It is this type of love that drives a faith that rests, 'no matter what', that believes God is the God he says that he is, 'no matter what'. That believes he will do the things he says he will do, 'no matter what', that knows I am the person he says that I am, 'no matter what', and that is certain I can do all things through Christ and his strength, 'no matter what'. I pray that we each may know and rely on the love God has for us.
Here's a little homework assignment for you: Read through the 'Hall of Faith' chapter in Hebrews 11 and consider how the faith of each person required them to love God with their minds in the midst of very tough circumstances - I pray it will it will strengthen and inspire you to learn to love God with your mind.
Blessings sweet friends!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Not just a ride on a donkey
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2011;%20John%2012&version=NIV
Today in John and in Mark we read about the Jesus Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. As you read, Jesus told his disciples where they would be able to find a donkey and had them bring it to him. He was riding upon that donkey when he entered Jerusalem. However, this wasn’t just a ride on a donkey into town. It was so much more…..
It marked him as king. Jesus didn’t just want a ride because he was tired, and he didn’t just have a preference for donkeys. He very purposefully chose to ride in on a donkey because of the significance it would have. The donkey was a traditional mount for kings and rulers in the ancient Near East. Jesus was therefore making an implicit claim to be the king of his people. In addition, the image of a king on a donkey meant to king came in peace.
It was a fulfillment of messianic prophecy. Zachariah 9:9 says, “See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” By riding into Jerusalem, Jesus knew he was fulfilling that prophecy. In Jewish literature and teaching, the image of a king on a donkey approaching Jerusalem was consistently understood to signify the arrival of the Messianic King, thus….
It was Jesus very purposefully offering himself up as the Messiah. He knew that in doing this he would provoke Jewish leaders to take action against him.
It was part of God’s perfect timing and plan because in entering when he did, Jesus was also offering himself up as the sacrificial lamb. The Passover lamb was always separated or set aside six days before Passover. Jesus entered Jerusalem 6 days before Passover, so in riding in to Jerusalem when he did, Jesus also is signifying that he is the Passover lamb.
It was a choice that was an act of obedience to God’s purpose and plan. As we’ve mentioned, Jesus knew that by riding in on a donkey, he was provoking the Jewish leaders and setting into motion events that would lead to the fulfillment of his purpose. He knew that while he entered triumphantly, agony awaited him. The important thing we must note here is that despite what he knew it would cost him, he chose to do the will of God.
It was a spirit-led choice. Jesus walked this earth as a man. His power and His knowledge came to him only through prayer and the Holy Spirit. Just like the Spirit led him into the dessert when he was tempted (Matt. 4:1), I believe that the Spirit prompted him to choose to enter Jerusalem on a donkey. I believe that he knew, ultimately, that this was an unfolding of God’s plan because he knew scripture, new the Messianic prophecies, and knew the significance in the culture of the choice to ride in on a donkey. I do not believe he knew how all the events would play out. Rather, just as the Spirit prompted him to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey, I believe the Spirit revealed to him what would come next exactly when he needed to know. One reason I believe this is because it would have been too heavy for him to bear. While he had a vision of God’s purpose for him, Jesus had to walk in trust as His father put the plan into motion, knowing that God would give him what he needed at the perfect time. I pray that we might do the same.
Here's just a fun side-note. Jesus entered into Jerusalem, walking towards his death, on a donkey, as a king that would bring peace. But returns as Warrior-Messiah-King!
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True." - Rev. 19:11
Blessings precious friends, in the name of Jesus, our Faithful and True Victorious Warrior-Messiah-King!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Today in John and in Mark we read about the Jesus Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. As you read, Jesus told his disciples where they would be able to find a donkey and had them bring it to him. He was riding upon that donkey when he entered Jerusalem. However, this wasn’t just a ride on a donkey into town. It was so much more…..
It marked him as king. Jesus didn’t just want a ride because he was tired, and he didn’t just have a preference for donkeys. He very purposefully chose to ride in on a donkey because of the significance it would have. The donkey was a traditional mount for kings and rulers in the ancient Near East. Jesus was therefore making an implicit claim to be the king of his people. In addition, the image of a king on a donkey meant to king came in peace.
It was a fulfillment of messianic prophecy. Zachariah 9:9 says, “See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” By riding into Jerusalem, Jesus knew he was fulfilling that prophecy. In Jewish literature and teaching, the image of a king on a donkey approaching Jerusalem was consistently understood to signify the arrival of the Messianic King, thus….
It was Jesus very purposefully offering himself up as the Messiah. He knew that in doing this he would provoke Jewish leaders to take action against him.
It was part of God’s perfect timing and plan because in entering when he did, Jesus was also offering himself up as the sacrificial lamb. The Passover lamb was always separated or set aside six days before Passover. Jesus entered Jerusalem 6 days before Passover, so in riding in to Jerusalem when he did, Jesus also is signifying that he is the Passover lamb.
It was a choice that was an act of obedience to God’s purpose and plan. As we’ve mentioned, Jesus knew that by riding in on a donkey, he was provoking the Jewish leaders and setting into motion events that would lead to the fulfillment of his purpose. He knew that while he entered triumphantly, agony awaited him. The important thing we must note here is that despite what he knew it would cost him, he chose to do the will of God.
It was a spirit-led choice. Jesus walked this earth as a man. His power and His knowledge came to him only through prayer and the Holy Spirit. Just like the Spirit led him into the dessert when he was tempted (Matt. 4:1), I believe that the Spirit prompted him to choose to enter Jerusalem on a donkey. I believe that he knew, ultimately, that this was an unfolding of God’s plan because he knew scripture, new the Messianic prophecies, and knew the significance in the culture of the choice to ride in on a donkey. I do not believe he knew how all the events would play out. Rather, just as the Spirit prompted him to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey, I believe the Spirit revealed to him what would come next exactly when he needed to know. One reason I believe this is because it would have been too heavy for him to bear. While he had a vision of God’s purpose for him, Jesus had to walk in trust as His father put the plan into motion, knowing that God would give him what he needed at the perfect time. I pray that we might do the same.
Here's just a fun side-note. Jesus entered into Jerusalem, walking towards his death, on a donkey, as a king that would bring peace. But returns as Warrior-Messiah-King!
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True." - Rev. 19:11
Blessings precious friends, in the name of Jesus, our Faithful and True Victorious Warrior-Messiah-King!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Friday, November 5, 2010
Luke 19
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2019&version=ESV
Luke 19:10: "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Friends, in Luke 19:10 we come to the mission of Jesus. To seek and save the lost.
In today's world, people don't think they are lost. Everyone who is without Christ is lost. Period.
You may have wealth, beauty, prestige, friends, and prestige, but if you don't have Jesus, you are still lost.
In this verse, it says that Jesus sought us. Yes friends, every one of you who is a believer in Christ was sought by Jesus first.
The sovereignty of God and human responsibility are intertwined once again.
I would like to share with you some thoughts from Bible. org's Bob Deffinbaugh on this great verse:
First and foremost, Jesus came to save sinners. Yes, He would later establish the kingdom of God on the earth, but the basis of this kingdom, that which Christ must accomplish at His first coming, was the forgiveness of man’s sins. Men could not enter into the kingdom of God in their sinful condition. Jesus came to bear the penalty of man’s sins, and to provide them with His righteousness. This was the foundation of the kingdom.
http://bible.org/seriespage/sublime-ridiculous-luke-1831-1910
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Luke 19:10: "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Friends, in Luke 19:10 we come to the mission of Jesus. To seek and save the lost.
In today's world, people don't think they are lost. Everyone who is without Christ is lost. Period.
You may have wealth, beauty, prestige, friends, and prestige, but if you don't have Jesus, you are still lost.
In this verse, it says that Jesus sought us. Yes friends, every one of you who is a believer in Christ was sought by Jesus first.
The sovereignty of God and human responsibility are intertwined once again.
I would like to share with you some thoughts from Bible. org's Bob Deffinbaugh on this great verse:
First and foremost, Jesus came to save sinners. Yes, He would later establish the kingdom of God on the earth, but the basis of this kingdom, that which Christ must accomplish at His first coming, was the forgiveness of man’s sins. Men could not enter into the kingdom of God in their sinful condition. Jesus came to bear the penalty of man’s sins, and to provide them with His righteousness. This was the foundation of the kingdom.
Jesus came to seek and to save sinners. He did not come to associate with the rich and powerful. He did not come to provide positions and power for the disciples. He came to save sinners. To do so, He must associate with sinners. Thus, while it may offend the sensitivities and the social mores of His day, Jesus would go where sinners were, so that the gospel could come to them and they could be saved. If one’s goal is to save sinners, then being with sinners is simply a means to that goal. Jesus’ ministry was governed by His goal of seeking and saving sinners. Did Zacchaeus think that he had sought the Lord? He had. But the Lord had also sought Him.
What a beautiful picture of the tension that is maintained here between the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man. Zaccheus did not call upon the Lord, but the Lord called to him. The Scriptures clearly teach that no one who truly comes to Jesus for mercy, on the basis of faith, will be turned away. They also teach that anyone who comes to Christ for salvation does not come on their own initiative, but is drawn by God:“WHOEVER WILL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED” (Romans 10:13, citing Joel 2:32).
“All that the Father gives Me shall come to Me; and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out” (John 6:37).
It is therefore God who both begins and finishes the work of salvation, and yet man is not to be passive:
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).
For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).
Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of faith (Hebrews 12:2).
For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, In order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in you faith supply moral excellence, and in you moral excellence, knowledge … (2 Peter 1:4-5ff.) .
God’s sovereignty does not remove our responsibility both to seek God and to obey Him. And yet when we do, we know that it is because God has caused us to will and to work His good pleasure. No man who truly seeks God as Savior will ever be turned away. Those who do seek, will find that they have first been sought by Him, the One who came to seek and to save the sinner.
http://bible.org/seriespage/sublime-ridiculous-luke-1831-1910
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Matthew 20-21
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2020-21&version=ESV
Matthew 20:29-34: "And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" And stopping, Jesus called them and said, "What do you want me to do for you?" They said to him, "Lord, let our eyes be opened." And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him."
He opens our eyes so that we can behold who He really is. Once he does this in our lives, we must submit to His authority and obey Him. Don't fall into the lie that being a disciple of Christ is a higher form of Christianity. All believers are disciples and all disciples are believers.
1 John 5:20: "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life."
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Matthew 20:29-34: "And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" And stopping, Jesus called them and said, "What do you want me to do for you?" They said to him, "Lord, let our eyes be opened." And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him."
In the verses above, the blind men immediately recovered their sight and followed Jesus.
In Evangelical Christianity today some people claim that Jesus is Savior and that He becomes Lord at a later point in your life. Friends, Jesus is your Savior and your Lord when you place your faith in Him.He opens our eyes so that we can behold who He really is. Once he does this in our lives, we must submit to His authority and obey Him. Don't fall into the lie that being a disciple of Christ is a higher form of Christianity. All believers are disciples and all disciples are believers.
1 John 5:20: "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life."
Soli Deo Gloria.
Today's post was submitted by Russ Shellhamer.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Matthew 19; Mark 10
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%2019,%20mark%2010&version=NIV
What we have to remember when reading the story about the rich man and the kingdom of heaven is that none of us can ever live a perfect sinless life. That’s not how we get to heaven. Also, being poor doesn’t get us in to heaven and being rich doesn’t keep us out of heaven either. God chooses to bless us all with different types and levels of worldly riches for different reasons. He blessed David and Job abundantly in the Old Testament because it pleased Him to be able to bless his children. The problem occurs when we seek riches instead of seeking God.
Worldly riches can hinder our faith in many ways. It is easy to become proud of our riches and the accomplishments that allowed us to earn them, forgetting that they are a blessing from God. We might become greedy and refuse to share our wealth with the poor or neglect to give our tithes back to God. Some become idolaters and worship their riches instead of God. Some get so zealous in attaining their riches that they oppress others or cheat and steal. Riches also provide easy access to vices that can lead to destruction of self or others. If we worship and rely upon our riches, then we are not worshipping and relying on God.
Salvation does not depend on us living a sinless life and it doesn’t require that we live in poverty. It requires that we put our faith in God. Many wealthy individuals love and worship God; and many who are poor, don’t.
The man in the parable had allowed his wealth to become a snare. He was not willing to lay down his riches at Jesus feet and pick up the cross instead. He walked away from Jesus that day with sadness in his heart, but the story didn’t there. Jesus tells the disciples that “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Astonished, the disciples ask Him, “Who then shall be saved?” Jesus replies that “with God all things are possible”. That man may have walked away with sadness in his heart, but I imagine that God wasn’t finished with him. God is a God of transformation and He can touch hearts and transform lives. With Him anything is possible – He can easily pass a camel through the eye of a needle and He can easily reveal Himself as worthy of worship to a rich man.
The thing is, if you live in the United States of America, you are most likely wealthy compared to the citizens of most other countries. We must be careful that our wealth does not become a snare. Our salvation is through Christ, not through our riches and not through our works. Take time to thank him for your abundant blessings. Reflect on his amazing grace and his immense power. He is exceedingly worthy of our worship beyond any riches that this world his to offer.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
What we have to remember when reading the story about the rich man and the kingdom of heaven is that none of us can ever live a perfect sinless life. That’s not how we get to heaven. Also, being poor doesn’t get us in to heaven and being rich doesn’t keep us out of heaven either. God chooses to bless us all with different types and levels of worldly riches for different reasons. He blessed David and Job abundantly in the Old Testament because it pleased Him to be able to bless his children. The problem occurs when we seek riches instead of seeking God.
Worldly riches can hinder our faith in many ways. It is easy to become proud of our riches and the accomplishments that allowed us to earn them, forgetting that they are a blessing from God. We might become greedy and refuse to share our wealth with the poor or neglect to give our tithes back to God. Some become idolaters and worship their riches instead of God. Some get so zealous in attaining their riches that they oppress others or cheat and steal. Riches also provide easy access to vices that can lead to destruction of self or others. If we worship and rely upon our riches, then we are not worshipping and relying on God.
Salvation does not depend on us living a sinless life and it doesn’t require that we live in poverty. It requires that we put our faith in God. Many wealthy individuals love and worship God; and many who are poor, don’t.
The man in the parable had allowed his wealth to become a snare. He was not willing to lay down his riches at Jesus feet and pick up the cross instead. He walked away from Jesus that day with sadness in his heart, but the story didn’t there. Jesus tells the disciples that “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Astonished, the disciples ask Him, “Who then shall be saved?” Jesus replies that “with God all things are possible”. That man may have walked away with sadness in his heart, but I imagine that God wasn’t finished with him. God is a God of transformation and He can touch hearts and transform lives. With Him anything is possible – He can easily pass a camel through the eye of a needle and He can easily reveal Himself as worthy of worship to a rich man.
The thing is, if you live in the United States of America, you are most likely wealthy compared to the citizens of most other countries. We must be careful that our wealth does not become a snare. Our salvation is through Christ, not through our riches and not through our works. Take time to thank him for your abundant blessings. Reflect on his amazing grace and his immense power. He is exceedingly worthy of our worship beyond any riches that this world his to offer.
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
Monday, November 1, 2010
Luke 18
Today's passage: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke%2018&version=NIV
I love that movie finding Nemo. One of the scenes that gets stuck in my head is when Dory is trying to encourage Nemo after they’ve lost the mask. Nemo is discouraged because they’ve lost the only clue that would help them in the search for Nemo’s son. Dory tries to encourage Nemo to press on. She won’t let him give up.
She says, “Hey Mr. Grumpy Gills. When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do?” Then, she breaks in to song, “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. What do we do we swimm swimm oh oh oh oh oh I love to swim.”
Believe it or not, the parable in Luke 18 reminded me of this scene and Dory’s catchy little song. This parable tells us not to be discouraged and to just keep praying.
"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” (Luke 18:1)."
I have to admit there are times in my prayer life where I feel like a broken record. I’ve been praying for the same person to develop a relationship with God for a couple of years now and I still do not see the results I'm looking for. The prayer lays heavy on my heart and I know God placed it there, but at times I get discouraged. And when I get discouraged and lose heart, my prayer life suffers.
But the parable in the first part of Luke 18 encourages me to just keep praying and never give up. The widow wanted justice and the judge, for whatever reason wouldn’t budge. After the widow pestered the ungodly, unjust judge, he finally granted her request just so she would quit bothering us.
Contrast this judge to God, the perfect Judge. If you’ve been reading Bible with us all year, you’ve learned a lot about God’s character and that God is the perfect Judge. He is righteous and true. He is all knowing and all seeing. He always hears our cries. Our prayers are not a bother; in fact He wants us to pray ceaselessly. He want us to depend upon Him for all of our needs. He wants us to trust in Him and lean on Him. His love is deeper and wider than our tiny minds can fathom. His ways are higher than our ways and His wisdom surpasses all understanding. He is the perfect Judge. He is not at all like the judge in the parable who granted the widow’s request.
If an unjust judge hears and honors the requests of the widow, how much more will our righteous, true, loving and perfect God hear and honor the prayers of his chosen ones? We are his children and he longs to bless us. Our persistent prayers are a reflection of our persistent dependency on Him and our persistent faith in Him. Our persistent prayers indicate that we haven’t given up on God and that we know he hasn’t abandoned us. Our persistent prayers reveal our persistent belief in the power of prayer.
So, you might be wondering “If I pray long and hard enough, will God finally give me a car collection like Jay Leno’s?” Probably not. This lesson has to be applied along with the many other lessons about prayer we’ve studied. God is not a genie in a bottle who fulfills our every whim, but if we seek Him daily our hearts will be filled with a desire to walk daily in his will, and our prayer life will be transformed.
This parable not only applies to our prayer life, but to our faith life. We can’t lose faith. We must not lose hope. The world around us looks pretty ugly and pretty scray sometimes and we might wonder how God can or if he will ever redeem us. But He can and He will in his perfect timing. He will rise again and redeem this fallen world, but in the mean time…Just keep praying, praying, praying…
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
I love that movie finding Nemo. One of the scenes that gets stuck in my head is when Dory is trying to encourage Nemo after they’ve lost the mask. Nemo is discouraged because they’ve lost the only clue that would help them in the search for Nemo’s son. Dory tries to encourage Nemo to press on. She won’t let him give up.
She says, “Hey Mr. Grumpy Gills. When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do?” Then, she breaks in to song, “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. What do we do we swimm swimm oh oh oh oh oh I love to swim.”
Believe it or not, the parable in Luke 18 reminded me of this scene and Dory’s catchy little song. This parable tells us not to be discouraged and to just keep praying.
"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” (Luke 18:1)."
I have to admit there are times in my prayer life where I feel like a broken record. I’ve been praying for the same person to develop a relationship with God for a couple of years now and I still do not see the results I'm looking for. The prayer lays heavy on my heart and I know God placed it there, but at times I get discouraged. And when I get discouraged and lose heart, my prayer life suffers.
But the parable in the first part of Luke 18 encourages me to just keep praying and never give up. The widow wanted justice and the judge, for whatever reason wouldn’t budge. After the widow pestered the ungodly, unjust judge, he finally granted her request just so she would quit bothering us.
Contrast this judge to God, the perfect Judge. If you’ve been reading Bible with us all year, you’ve learned a lot about God’s character and that God is the perfect Judge. He is righteous and true. He is all knowing and all seeing. He always hears our cries. Our prayers are not a bother; in fact He wants us to pray ceaselessly. He want us to depend upon Him for all of our needs. He wants us to trust in Him and lean on Him. His love is deeper and wider than our tiny minds can fathom. His ways are higher than our ways and His wisdom surpasses all understanding. He is the perfect Judge. He is not at all like the judge in the parable who granted the widow’s request.
If an unjust judge hears and honors the requests of the widow, how much more will our righteous, true, loving and perfect God hear and honor the prayers of his chosen ones? We are his children and he longs to bless us. Our persistent prayers are a reflection of our persistent dependency on Him and our persistent faith in Him. Our persistent prayers indicate that we haven’t given up on God and that we know he hasn’t abandoned us. Our persistent prayers reveal our persistent belief in the power of prayer.
So, you might be wondering “If I pray long and hard enough, will God finally give me a car collection like Jay Leno’s?” Probably not. This lesson has to be applied along with the many other lessons about prayer we’ve studied. God is not a genie in a bottle who fulfills our every whim, but if we seek Him daily our hearts will be filled with a desire to walk daily in his will, and our prayer life will be transformed.
This parable not only applies to our prayer life, but to our faith life. We can’t lose faith. We must not lose hope. The world around us looks pretty ugly and pretty scray sometimes and we might wonder how God can or if he will ever redeem us. But He can and He will in his perfect timing. He will rise again and redeem this fallen world, but in the mean time…Just keep praying, praying, praying…
Today's post submitted by Kelly Coxe
John 11 - The Resurrection and the Life
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2011&version=ESV
Today's passage focuses on Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. I'm sure that you have heard the story of this miracle many times as it is one of the most famous in the Gospels, but Scripture is always able to impact us and help draw us closer to Christ no matter how many times we have encountered a specific passage.
We celebrated baptisms yesterday and baptism is a perfect symbol of death and resurrection as baptism reminds us that we are buried with Christ and raised to walk in the newness of life.
Jesus calls us to life, just as He called Lazarus to life. Notice the order of events. Jesus waited on God's timing so that the Father would be glorified. It is not when Mary and Martha would have liked, but when the Father and the Son determined best for impacting not only Lazarus and his family but the entire world.
Once the time was right, Jesus went to Bethany. He did not minimize the grief of the sisters and He openly wept, showing His humanity and compassion. He then went to the tomb, prayed to the Father, and summoned Lazarus to come forth. Notice that there was nothing that Lazarus could do on his own. He was completely dependent upon God for bringing him back to life, but once summoned, Lazarus needed to respond and walk out in faith and then required assistance from others to unwrap him.
This is a perfect example of the Christian life. We are dead in our trespasses and sins. Grave clothes have covered our bodies and trapped us inside a shell. We can't speak or see until God summons us. Then God opens our eyes and ears and allows us to move towards Him. We still have to listen and obey. Once we are brought into the community of living believers, then we need to accept the help of others and learn what it means to be a part of the living.
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. He is not dead. He has conquered death and reaches out to us in compassion and love. He not only brings us back from the death but He grants us life. This life is not a return to the stench of the grave but should be reflected with abundant life that brings the fragrance of life to others.
Are you still dead in the grave or have you accepted the free gift of eternal life? If you are a Christian, is your life a fragrant offering or could you be mistaken for the world's walking dead who have eyes but do not see and ears but do not hear?
Today's passage focuses on Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. I'm sure that you have heard the story of this miracle many times as it is one of the most famous in the Gospels, but Scripture is always able to impact us and help draw us closer to Christ no matter how many times we have encountered a specific passage.
We celebrated baptisms yesterday and baptism is a perfect symbol of death and resurrection as baptism reminds us that we are buried with Christ and raised to walk in the newness of life.
Jesus calls us to life, just as He called Lazarus to life. Notice the order of events. Jesus waited on God's timing so that the Father would be glorified. It is not when Mary and Martha would have liked, but when the Father and the Son determined best for impacting not only Lazarus and his family but the entire world.
Once the time was right, Jesus went to Bethany. He did not minimize the grief of the sisters and He openly wept, showing His humanity and compassion. He then went to the tomb, prayed to the Father, and summoned Lazarus to come forth. Notice that there was nothing that Lazarus could do on his own. He was completely dependent upon God for bringing him back to life, but once summoned, Lazarus needed to respond and walk out in faith and then required assistance from others to unwrap him.
This is a perfect example of the Christian life. We are dead in our trespasses and sins. Grave clothes have covered our bodies and trapped us inside a shell. We can't speak or see until God summons us. Then God opens our eyes and ears and allows us to move towards Him. We still have to listen and obey. Once we are brought into the community of living believers, then we need to accept the help of others and learn what it means to be a part of the living.
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. He is not dead. He has conquered death and reaches out to us in compassion and love. He not only brings us back from the death but He grants us life. This life is not a return to the stench of the grave but should be reflected with abundant life that brings the fragrance of life to others.
Are you still dead in the grave or have you accepted the free gift of eternal life? If you are a Christian, is your life a fragrant offering or could you be mistaken for the world's walking dead who have eyes but do not see and ears but do not hear?
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