2 Corinthians 6
14 Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? 15 What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? 16 And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said:
“I will live in them
and walk among them.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
17 Therefore, come out from among unbelievers,
and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD.
Don’t touch their filthy things,
and I will welcome you.
18 And I will be your Father,
and you will be my sons and daughters,
says the LORD Almighty.”
There’s a balancing act that must go into place here. I absolutely believe that Christ followers have no business teaming up with non-believers. Be that in business ventures, or in marriage! We who follow Christ have no business teaming up with those who follow satan! Period. I have told students for decades that they have no business dating a non-Christian, and I stand by that advice, as I believe this passage clearly supports my position. However, I also do not want to swing so far to that side that Christ followers would never have anything to do with non-believers. Some would take this passage and say, “see, we shouldn’t even talk to the pagans.” Excuse me…how can we be salt and light if we totally separate ourselves from non-believers? Partner with them? Never? Engage them in life situations where we can let Jesus shine forth through us? You betcha! Walk that balance beam for Jesus, baby!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Clear Effective Communication of God's Word
2 Corinthians 4
1 Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. 2 We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this.
3 If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. 4 Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.
When you try to speak the plain truth using plain language or methods, you can run into a lot of opposition. Those whom satan has blinded will oppose you at every turn. They will do everything from trying to water down the message to flat out rejecting the substance of the message. The rejection should not be surprising, but the watering down is so disappointing. My prayer today is that God’s Word is communicated clearly, effectively, and without compromise.
1 Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. 2 We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this.
3 If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. 4 Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.
When you try to speak the plain truth using plain language or methods, you can run into a lot of opposition. Those whom satan has blinded will oppose you at every turn. They will do everything from trying to water down the message to flat out rejecting the substance of the message. The rejection should not be surprising, but the watering down is so disappointing. My prayer today is that God’s Word is communicated clearly, effectively, and without compromise.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Patience and harmony
Romans 15
1 We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. 2 We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. 3 For even Christ didn’t live to please himself. As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” 4 Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.
5 May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. 6 Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Patience is not one of my strong suits, although I am better than I used to be in this area of my life. I know that God has to be infinitely patient with me, so I am encouraged in the knowledge that I can be more patient. I can hold my tongue. I can live in harmony, even when opinions differ. It is not easy, but it is necessary for joining together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. 2 We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. 3 For even Christ didn’t live to please himself. As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” 4 Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.
5 May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. 6 Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Patience is not one of my strong suits, although I am better than I used to be in this area of my life. I know that God has to be infinitely patient with me, so I am encouraged in the knowledge that I can be more patient. I can hold my tongue. I can live in harmony, even when opinions differ. It is not easy, but it is necessary for joining together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Transofrming Thankfulness
Romans 12
1 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
On this day after Thanksgiving, I again want to proclaim my love for God and give Him thanks for every good and perfect gift. May my life be a sacrifice of praise. As I daily take stock of the numerous blessings I have received, it is my desire to live in such a way, that others are attracted to Jesus because they see how He is working in my life. Lord, thank You for opening my eyes, my ears, and my heart to Your Word. May my transformed life give You the glory always.
1 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
On this day after Thanksgiving, I again want to proclaim my love for God and give Him thanks for every good and perfect gift. May my life be a sacrifice of praise. As I daily take stock of the numerous blessings I have received, it is my desire to live in such a way, that others are attracted to Jesus because they see how He is working in my life. Lord, thank You for opening my eyes, my ears, and my heart to Your Word. May my transformed life give You the glory always.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
God's Love
Romans 8
31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? 33 Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.
35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 36 (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”]) 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
On this Thanksgiving Day, 2009, I am so thankful for the love of God and the unbreakable bond in that love. It still boggles my mind that God would even WANT to love me. It is so humbling to think that God would WANT to use me in some small way to build up His Kingdom. It is amazing to me that God’s Grace and Mercy are mine. I try to show that same kind of love, mercy and grace to others. While I still struggle in that area with certain people, I know that it is my Christian duty to love them like God loves me. Help me, Lord to live out that love every day, not just on Thanksgiving Day.
31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? 33 Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.
35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 36 (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”]) 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
On this Thanksgiving Day, 2009, I am so thankful for the love of God and the unbreakable bond in that love. It still boggles my mind that God would even WANT to love me. It is so humbling to think that God would WANT to use me in some small way to build up His Kingdom. It is amazing to me that God’s Grace and Mercy are mine. I try to show that same kind of love, mercy and grace to others. While I still struggle in that area with certain people, I know that it is my Christian duty to love them like God loves me. Help me, Lord to live out that love every day, not just on Thanksgiving Day.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Sin's Power Is Broken
Romans 6
1 Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? 2 Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? 3 Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? 4 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.
5 Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. 6 We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. 7 For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. 8 And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. 9 We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. 10 When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. 11 So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.
The NLT headlines this passage of Scripture: “Sin’s Power Is Broken.” And since we in the Restoration Movement love to cite Romans 6:3-5 in our defense of baptism as part of the salvation process, I wanted to put the whole thing in context. We die to sin when we are united with Christ. We are untied with Christ when we are immersed (baptized) into His death, and raised with Him into a new life. That is what Christian Baptism pictures. It is in baptism that we come into contact with the Blood of Jesus (His death), and are united with Him to be shed of our sin. Yeah, a little country-fied lingo there. We are dead to the power of sin when we unite with Christ and we unite with Him in faith through baptism. Doesn’t get much more simple than that, folks.
1 Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? 2 Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? 3 Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? 4 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.
5 Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. 6 We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. 7 For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. 8 And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. 9 We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. 10 When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. 11 So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.
The NLT headlines this passage of Scripture: “Sin’s Power Is Broken.” And since we in the Restoration Movement love to cite Romans 6:3-5 in our defense of baptism as part of the salvation process, I wanted to put the whole thing in context. We die to sin when we are united with Christ. We are untied with Christ when we are immersed (baptized) into His death, and raised with Him into a new life. That is what Christian Baptism pictures. It is in baptism that we come into contact with the Blood of Jesus (His death), and are united with Him to be shed of our sin. Yeah, a little country-fied lingo there. We are dead to the power of sin when we unite with Christ and we unite with Him in faith through baptism. Doesn’t get much more simple than that, folks.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Something For Which To Be Thankful!
Romans 3
22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
I am so glad that God provide an escape from the penalty of my sin through His Son Jesus! While I fall short of God’s glorious standard (I LOVE the way the NLT renders v. 23), that standard has been met on my behalf through the Person of Jesus. My faith in Him leads to my obedience to the Gospel, so that the blood of Jesus shed on my behalf cleanses me of my sin. Now THERE is something for which to be THANKFUL during this Thanksgiving season!!!
22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
I am so glad that God provide an escape from the penalty of my sin through His Son Jesus! While I fall short of God’s glorious standard (I LOVE the way the NLT renders v. 23), that standard has been met on my behalf through the Person of Jesus. My faith in Him leads to my obedience to the Gospel, so that the blood of Jesus shed on my behalf cleanses me of my sin. Now THERE is something for which to be THANKFUL during this Thanksgiving season!!!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Not for Wimps
1 Corinthians 16
13 Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. 14 And do everything with love.
Five commands from Paul in these two short verse of Scripture. Followers of Christ would do well to heed these commands. Satan does indeed prowl around like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), so we need to stand guard. We need to stand firm in the faith, and not allow it to be watered down by culture or by false teachings. It takes true courage to stand up against such false teachings, because those teachings (“pray Jesus into your heart,” etc.) are so popular within the “Christian World.” In order to be strong, we must be in the Word of God every day. We must allow God to speak to us directly through the Bible, and not rely on someone else’s interpretation of what God says (don’t eat pre-chewed food). Then, there is that command to do it all in love again. Remembering the definition of love as was given in 1 Cor. 13. Yeah, this Christ following thing is not for wimps!
13 Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. 14 And do everything with love.
Five commands from Paul in these two short verse of Scripture. Followers of Christ would do well to heed these commands. Satan does indeed prowl around like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), so we need to stand guard. We need to stand firm in the faith, and not allow it to be watered down by culture or by false teachings. It takes true courage to stand up against such false teachings, because those teachings (“pray Jesus into your heart,” etc.) are so popular within the “Christian World.” In order to be strong, we must be in the Word of God every day. We must allow God to speak to us directly through the Bible, and not rely on someone else’s interpretation of what God says (don’t eat pre-chewed food). Then, there is that command to do it all in love again. Remembering the definition of love as was given in 1 Cor. 13. Yeah, this Christ following thing is not for wimps!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The Gospel
1 Corinthians 15
1Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. 2By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.
3For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. 6After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
It is the Gospel of Christ that leads mankind to salvation. We must stand firmly upon that Gospel as preached by Peter, Paul and the others in the 1st century, and preach that SAME Gospel today. It is the message that is key. The method may change to suit the environment and the audience, but the message is the same always. I am so grateful that someone loved me enough to share the Gospel with me, and I pray that I may pass along that love through the Gospel message to all with whom I come in contact on a daily basis.
1Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. 2By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.
3For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. 6After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
It is the Gospel of Christ that leads mankind to salvation. We must stand firmly upon that Gospel as preached by Peter, Paul and the others in the 1st century, and preach that SAME Gospel today. It is the message that is key. The method may change to suit the environment and the audience, but the message is the same always. I am so grateful that someone loved me enough to share the Gospel with me, and I pray that I may pass along that love through the Gospel message to all with whom I come in contact on a daily basis.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
What Does Love Look Like?
1 Corinthians 13
4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
While this passage is often used in wedding ceremonies, the context in which it was written has nothing to do with a wedding and everything to do with living your daily life in Christ. If we who follow Christ are known by our love, then what should that love look like? It should look like the description in these verses! Patient; kind; not jealous, boastful, or proud; love doesn’t demand its own way, is not irritable, keeps no record of wrongs; doesn’t rejoice about injustice; rejoices when truth wins out. Paul tells us that when we live lives of love, we never give up, never lose faith, are always hopeful and we endure through every circumstance. Man, this living a life of love is tough stuff, eh?
4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
While this passage is often used in wedding ceremonies, the context in which it was written has nothing to do with a wedding and everything to do with living your daily life in Christ. If we who follow Christ are known by our love, then what should that love look like? It should look like the description in these verses! Patient; kind; not jealous, boastful, or proud; love doesn’t demand its own way, is not irritable, keeps no record of wrongs; doesn’t rejoice about injustice; rejoices when truth wins out. Paul tells us that when we live lives of love, we never give up, never lose faith, are always hopeful and we endure through every circumstance. Man, this living a life of love is tough stuff, eh?
Friday, November 20, 2009
Methods and Message
1 Corinthians 9
19Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
Do not confuse Paul’s teaching here with the notion of “blending in” with the culture, because those two notions are not one in the same! Paul stood out wherever he went, standing up for the Gospel of Christ. He is talking about using different methods to reach different people, but the message of Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We who want to follow Christ and make a difference in our culture today for His sake, would do well to remember this.
19Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
Do not confuse Paul’s teaching here with the notion of “blending in” with the culture, because those two notions are not one in the same! Paul stood out wherever he went, standing up for the Gospel of Christ. He is talking about using different methods to reach different people, but the message of Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We who want to follow Christ and make a difference in our culture today for His sake, would do well to remember this.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
God IS Cool that Way
1 Corinthians 4
1 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.
Yes, this is the same Appollos who was taught the way even more accurately by Priscilla and Aquilla in Acts 18. Now, he is working with Paul and has been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. How cool is that? It does remind me of a guy named Rob Cox, who came to me as a teenager, having grown up in a denominational church. We studied God’s Word together, he was immersed into Christ for the forgiveness of his sins, went on to study at Kentucky Christian College (now University), and is a preacher today. Yeah, God IS cool that way!
1 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.
Yes, this is the same Appollos who was taught the way even more accurately by Priscilla and Aquilla in Acts 18. Now, he is working with Paul and has been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. How cool is that? It does remind me of a guy named Rob Cox, who came to me as a teenager, having grown up in a denominational church. We studied God’s Word together, he was immersed into Christ for the forgiveness of his sins, went on to study at Kentucky Christian College (now University), and is a preacher today. Yeah, God IS cool that way!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
More Accurately
Acts 18
24 Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. 25 He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John’s baptism. 26 When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching boldly in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God even more accurately.
I cannot help but see the modern parallels to Appollos in denomination church teachings. Oh, there are plenty of folks who are eagerly and earnestly following Jesus to the best of their knowledge, they just need to be taught the way of God even more accurately. Man-made prayers don’t save you. Jesus saves you through faith in baptism for good works. May God use me as an Aauilla to denominationalists’ Appolloses and may the way of God be explained to them even more accurately so that they may glorify god through His Son Jesus, always!
24 Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. 25 He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John’s baptism. 26 When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching boldly in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God even more accurately.
I cannot help but see the modern parallels to Appollos in denomination church teachings. Oh, there are plenty of folks who are eagerly and earnestly following Jesus to the best of their knowledge, they just need to be taught the way of God even more accurately. Man-made prayers don’t save you. Jesus saves you through faith in baptism for good works. May God use me as an Aauilla to denominationalists’ Appolloses and may the way of God be explained to them even more accurately so that they may glorify god through His Son Jesus, always!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Daily Joyful Prayer of Thanksgiving
1 Thessalonians 5
16 Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
The trifecta of Scripture verses not just for this season as we approach the American Holiday of Thanksgiving, but for every day of our lives! Yes, these verses are a run of three winning attitudes. 1) Always be joyful. Joy is not the same as happiness. To be happy is to depend on outside circumstances. Joy comes from within: as in your personal relationship with Christ. Joy does not depend on outward circumstances. That is why Christ followers can be joyful even in the midst of severe trials. 2) Never stop praying. We should have an attitude of prayer, always talking with and listening to God the Father. God desires to have a close, intimate personal relationship with us, and when we fail to speak with Him, it grieves Him greatly. 3) Be thankful in all circumstances. This IS a tough one. When my Mom died of pancreatic cancer in 1993, it was tough to be thankful, but I found reasons to give God the praise, glory and honor He deserves. I know that I can’t see the Big Picture, but that God does. I know that all will be revealed in due time. I trust that God loves me so much, that He does only want what is best for me, even in the midst of really stinky times. Because I know that, I can be thankful in all circumstances. Nothing nor no one can take my joy away from me. I will talk with God constantly each day to draw close to Him, and I will give thanks in all circumstances. This is my daily joyful prayer of thanksgiving. To do any less would be dishonoring to my Lord.
16 Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
The trifecta of Scripture verses not just for this season as we approach the American Holiday of Thanksgiving, but for every day of our lives! Yes, these verses are a run of three winning attitudes. 1) Always be joyful. Joy is not the same as happiness. To be happy is to depend on outside circumstances. Joy comes from within: as in your personal relationship with Christ. Joy does not depend on outward circumstances. That is why Christ followers can be joyful even in the midst of severe trials. 2) Never stop praying. We should have an attitude of prayer, always talking with and listening to God the Father. God desires to have a close, intimate personal relationship with us, and when we fail to speak with Him, it grieves Him greatly. 3) Be thankful in all circumstances. This IS a tough one. When my Mom died of pancreatic cancer in 1993, it was tough to be thankful, but I found reasons to give God the praise, glory and honor He deserves. I know that I can’t see the Big Picture, but that God does. I know that all will be revealed in due time. I trust that God loves me so much, that He does only want what is best for me, even in the midst of really stinky times. Because I know that, I can be thankful in all circumstances. Nothing nor no one can take my joy away from me. I will talk with God constantly each day to draw close to Him, and I will give thanks in all circumstances. This is my daily joyful prayer of thanksgiving. To do any less would be dishonoring to my Lord.
Monday, November 16, 2009
The Love of Christ
1 Thessalonians 4
9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.
Jesus gave us that new command in John 13:34-35 - 34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Paul confirms that command to the church in Thessalonica, and to us today. We Christ followers should be known by our love for one another, and our love for all people. Too often, the Church today is known for what it is against, not what is for. May the love of Christ motivate my every word, my every action not just toward other believers, but for the non-believers as well. I often have a LONG way to go in this area.
9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.
Jesus gave us that new command in John 13:34-35 - 34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Paul confirms that command to the church in Thessalonica, and to us today. We Christ followers should be known by our love for one another, and our love for all people. Too often, the Church today is known for what it is against, not what is for. May the love of Christ motivate my every word, my every action not just toward other believers, but for the non-believers as well. I often have a LONG way to go in this area.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Open Minded Scripture Search
Acts 16
13 On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 14 One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. 15 She was baptized along with other members of her household, and she asked us to be her guests. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed.
30 Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” 32 And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. 33 Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. 34 He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God.
Acts 17
10 That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 11 And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. 12 As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men.
Okay these three passages from today’s reading strike me because the two passages from chapter 16 are generally ignored by the “faith only” folks. If only they were like the Bereans who are described as “open minded” and are commended for “searching the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.” I have heard “faith only” preachers tell read the story of Paul and Silas in the Philippian jail only to stop at verse 31, completely ignoring the rest of the passage! That is not just ignorance, that is arrogance! That is deliberate misleading of people. I was so angry it was all I could do to keep from storming out of the assembly (and only out of respect for family members did I keep my seat and hold my tongue at that time…I DID express my dismay at the teaching with family later). My prayer is that the “faith only” false doctrine will be shown to be what it is: false doctrine. May folks who hear God’s Word be given the Whole Gospel so they may properly respond in faith through baptism for salvation.
13 On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 14 One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. 15 She was baptized along with other members of her household, and she asked us to be her guests. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed.
30 Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” 32 And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. 33 Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. 34 He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God.
Acts 17
10 That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 11 And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. 12 As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men.
Okay these three passages from today’s reading strike me because the two passages from chapter 16 are generally ignored by the “faith only” folks. If only they were like the Bereans who are described as “open minded” and are commended for “searching the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.” I have heard “faith only” preachers tell read the story of Paul and Silas in the Philippian jail only to stop at verse 31, completely ignoring the rest of the passage! That is not just ignorance, that is arrogance! That is deliberate misleading of people. I was so angry it was all I could do to keep from storming out of the assembly (and only out of respect for family members did I keep my seat and hold my tongue at that time…I DID express my dismay at the teaching with family later). My prayer is that the “faith only” false doctrine will be shown to be what it is: false doctrine. May folks who hear God’s Word be given the Whole Gospel so they may properly respond in faith through baptism for salvation.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Setting It Straight
Galatians 3
24 Let me put it another way. The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith. 25 And now that the way of faith has come, we no longer need the law as our guardian.
26 For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
Let me put it another way: you are united with Christ in immersion (the biblical form of what is transliterated “baptism”), putting on Christ like putting on new clothes. You are NOT united with Christ by saying a man made prayer. You are NOT united with Christ by having water sprinkled on you, pour on you, or thrown at you. You belong to Christ WHEN you are united with Him in immersion. THEN, you are the true children of Abraham, heirs with the promise of God belonging to you. Why do so many well-intentioned people want to teach otherwise?
24 Let me put it another way. The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith. 25 And now that the way of faith has come, we no longer need the law as our guardian.
26 For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
Let me put it another way: you are united with Christ in immersion (the biblical form of what is transliterated “baptism”), putting on Christ like putting on new clothes. You are NOT united with Christ by saying a man made prayer. You are NOT united with Christ by having water sprinkled on you, pour on you, or thrown at you. You belong to Christ WHEN you are united with Him in immersion. THEN, you are the true children of Abraham, heirs with the promise of God belonging to you. Why do so many well-intentioned people want to teach otherwise?
Friday, November 13, 2009
Suffering Hardships
Acts 14
21 After preaching the Good News in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia, 22 where they strengthened the believers. They encouraged them to continue in the faith, reminding them that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.
Woah, wait a minute! Did you catch that last part of verse 22? “Reminding them that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.” Yup, “hardships.” No health and wealth gospel being preached by Paul and Barnabas! No easy way out being taught here. No, sit back in your comfort zones as doctrine of the 1st century Church. American Christians have not the first notion about suffering or hardship as it relates to their faith. I don’t. I live in a land where as of this writing, I am still free to practice my faith without fear of reprisal of imprisonment or death. Now, that may change in the years to come, but for now, there are no hardships to overcome. So, is it any wonder that the Church in America is fat, lazy, and out of touch? Is it any wonder that shysters can take to the TV airwaves, slick unknowing and unsophisticated people out of their money, all in the “name of Jesus.”? Is it any wonder we have allowed the government to take on the responsibilities of caring for the widows and orphans? Maybe it is time for some suffering and hardships so we in the Church in America can get back to our original calling.
21 After preaching the Good News in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia, 22 where they strengthened the believers. They encouraged them to continue in the faith, reminding them that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.
Woah, wait a minute! Did you catch that last part of verse 22? “Reminding them that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.” Yup, “hardships.” No health and wealth gospel being preached by Paul and Barnabas! No easy way out being taught here. No, sit back in your comfort zones as doctrine of the 1st century Church. American Christians have not the first notion about suffering or hardship as it relates to their faith. I don’t. I live in a land where as of this writing, I am still free to practice my faith without fear of reprisal of imprisonment or death. Now, that may change in the years to come, but for now, there are no hardships to overcome. So, is it any wonder that the Church in America is fat, lazy, and out of touch? Is it any wonder that shysters can take to the TV airwaves, slick unknowing and unsophisticated people out of their money, all in the “name of Jesus.”? Is it any wonder we have allowed the government to take on the responsibilities of caring for the widows and orphans? Maybe it is time for some suffering and hardships so we in the Church in America can get back to our original calling.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Filled With Joy
Acts 13
49The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. 52And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Oh, to be filled with joy after being persecuted for the sake of Jesus! Oh, to be so focused on Christ that no matter what else happens, I could give glory and honor and praise to God through His Son Jesus. May I be encouraged by this passage today, and may my life reflect a desire to stand up for Jesus no matter what, and to give Him praise while filled with joy and the Holy Spirit always.
49The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. 52And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Oh, to be filled with joy after being persecuted for the sake of Jesus! Oh, to be so focused on Christ that no matter what else happens, I could give glory and honor and praise to God through His Son Jesus. May I be encouraged by this passage today, and may my life reflect a desire to stand up for Jesus no matter what, and to give Him praise while filled with joy and the Holy Spirit always.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
No Favoritism
Acts 10
34 Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. 35 In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.”
God shows no favoritism. In every nation, God accepts those who fear Him and do what is right. It is the people of any nation that God accepts, not a nation itself. Sometimes, we Americans get this mistaken notion that our country is “special” and that God loves America. I contend that God couldn’t care less about the nation of the United States of America, but that He very much loves the people in this nation who fear Him and do what is right. I am not anti-American by any stretch, but America is not my saving grace, either. Jesus is my Savior. The Kingdom of God is my first allegiance. I will serve God whether or not it is legal to do so in America (and I believe we are headed toward a day when it will NOT be legal to do so). I have more in common with my Christian brothers in foreign countries than I have with the pagans in America. I just wish that I could effectively communicate that sentiment without being mistaken for being unpatriotic. I do love America, and I want to see her continue on the path upon which she was founded. That’s something I don’t see happening these days either. Sigh.
34 Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. 35 In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.”
God shows no favoritism. In every nation, God accepts those who fear Him and do what is right. It is the people of any nation that God accepts, not a nation itself. Sometimes, we Americans get this mistaken notion that our country is “special” and that God loves America. I contend that God couldn’t care less about the nation of the United States of America, but that He very much loves the people in this nation who fear Him and do what is right. I am not anti-American by any stretch, but America is not my saving grace, either. Jesus is my Savior. The Kingdom of God is my first allegiance. I will serve God whether or not it is legal to do so in America (and I believe we are headed toward a day when it will NOT be legal to do so). I have more in common with my Christian brothers in foreign countries than I have with the pagans in America. I just wish that I could effectively communicate that sentiment without being mistaken for being unpatriotic. I do love America, and I want to see her continue on the path upon which she was founded. That’s something I don’t see happening these days either. Sigh.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Saul Saved
Acts 9
3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”
5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked.
And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink.
10 Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord!” he replied.
11 The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. 12 I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.”
13 “But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! 14 And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”
15 But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. 16 And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
17 So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. 19 Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.
Saul of Tsarsus encounter Jesus on the road to Damascus, but he was NOT saved on the road to Damascus. This passage clearly confirms that Saul was imply told to go into the city of Damascus and to wait to be told what to do. Then, Jesus led Ananias to teach Saul the Gospel. When he had done that, Saul was baptized. THAT is when Saul was saved. It is so sad that so many people want t twist the Bible to say what they want it to say instead of just reading it, keeping things in context and allowing the Bible to speak for itself.
3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”
5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked.
And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink.
10 Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord!” he replied.
11 The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. 12 I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.”
13 “But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! 14 And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”
15 But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. 16 And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
17 So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. 19 Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.
Saul of Tsarsus encounter Jesus on the road to Damascus, but he was NOT saved on the road to Damascus. This passage clearly confirms that Saul was imply told to go into the city of Damascus and to wait to be told what to do. Then, Jesus led Ananias to teach Saul the Gospel. When he had done that, Saul was baptized. THAT is when Saul was saved. It is so sad that so many people want t twist the Bible to say what they want it to say instead of just reading it, keeping things in context and allowing the Bible to speak for itself.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Balance
Acts 6
1 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.
2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”
5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.
7 So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
A proper sense of balance is needed for a church (or an individual) to remain healthy. Folks must be deeply rooted in the Word of God, and they must also reach out to help others within and from without the church membership. One without the other is no a healthy balance. Trying to exist without either is simply stupidity.
1 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.
2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”
5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.
7 So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
A proper sense of balance is needed for a church (or an individual) to remain healthy. Folks must be deeply rooted in the Word of God, and they must also reach out to help others within and from without the church membership. One without the other is no a healthy balance. Trying to exist without either is simply stupidity.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Obey God Not Men
Acts 5
40 The others accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go.
41 The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. 42 And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.”
I LOVE this passage of Scripture. The Apostles rejoiced when they were counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the name of Jesus. In America, those of us who follow Christ complain when the Politically Correct crowd wants to dismiss us, or even discriminate against us. The Apostles rejoiced after being flogged for the sake of Jesus. In America, those of us who follow Christ complain that our viewpoint is being suppressed by the culture, by the government, and by the people. The Apostles were ordered to never again speak in the name of Jesus, yet they continued to do just that knowing what the consequences would be. We may be entering a time of persecution in America, I don’t know. I do know that if it becomes illegal to preach in the name of Jesus, I will be a law breaker. I will obey God rather than man, if man’s law opposes what God’s Word says we are to do.
40 The others accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go.
41 The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. 42 And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.”
I LOVE this passage of Scripture. The Apostles rejoiced when they were counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the name of Jesus. In America, those of us who follow Christ complain when the Politically Correct crowd wants to dismiss us, or even discriminate against us. The Apostles rejoiced after being flogged for the sake of Jesus. In America, those of us who follow Christ complain that our viewpoint is being suppressed by the culture, by the government, and by the people. The Apostles were ordered to never again speak in the name of Jesus, yet they continued to do just that knowing what the consequences would be. We may be entering a time of persecution in America, I don’t know. I do know that if it becomes illegal to preach in the name of Jesus, I will be a law breaker. I will obey God rather than man, if man’s law opposes what God’s Word says we are to do.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Proper Invitation
Acts 2
36 “So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!”
37 Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
38 Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 This promise is to you, and to your children, and even to the Gentiles—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” 40 Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!”
41 Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.
When the first Gospel sermon was preached on the Day of Pentecost and when it came time to extend the invitation, what was said? Did Peter invite people to “pray Jesus into their hearts?” NO! He invited them to repent and to be baptized in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of their sins. Why is it that so many people who claim to follow Christ today simply ignore this, or try to diminish this, or flat out deny this? Sigh.
36 “So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!”
37 Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
38 Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 This promise is to you, and to your children, and even to the Gentiles—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” 40 Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!”
41 Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.
When the first Gospel sermon was preached on the Day of Pentecost and when it came time to extend the invitation, what was said? Did Peter invite people to “pray Jesus into their hearts?” NO! He invited them to repent and to be baptized in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of their sins. Why is it that so many people who claim to follow Christ today simply ignore this, or try to diminish this, or flat out deny this? Sigh.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Holy Heartburn
Luke 24
32 They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?”
Two of Jesus’ followers are down in the dumps over the events that have occurred over the past few days. The man they thought was Messiah has been crucified. They trudge out of Jerusalem towards Emmaus when a “stranger” catches up with them on the road. He seems clueless about what is going on, and they attempt to “straighten him out,” only to find that this stranger seems to have a better grasp on the reality of the situation than either of these two long-faced followers of Jesus. After straightening out the two long faced followers using God’s Word, this stranger finally reveals Himself to be none other than Jesus! Finally, these two followers are illuminated as to God’s Truth. They see the folly of their long-faced, put Messiah in my box, attitudes, and their hearts burn with a passion for the Word, and for the Lamb of God. Holy Heartburn! As I read this passage today, I am reminded not just of my tie-dyed “Hearts Afire” shirt based on this Scripture story, but I am reminded of my past few days. I’ve teetered on the edge of being a long-faced follower, questioning whether or not Jesus really “gets it” and if so how it could all be playing out like it has. I really needed praise team rehearsal last night. Those folks ALWAYS pick me up with their desire to honor God through their musical talents. I really needed today’s Scripture reading. I really need to remember that Jesus has it all under control. I must turn it over to Him, because I can’t see the Big Picture. When I try to cram Jesus into my “Messiah Box” I am committing folly of the worst kind. May my heart burn with a desire for the Word, and for Jesus to illuminate me. No little purple pill (I take Nexium for my stomach acid reflux disease) is needed, this is the kind of heartburn that will do me good!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Closet Followers
Mark 15
43 Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.)
Matthew 27
57 As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, 58 went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. 59 Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. 60 He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left.
Luke 23
50 Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph. He was a member of the Jewish high council, 51 but he had not agreed with the decision and actions of the other religious leaders. He was from the town of Arimathea in Judea, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come. 52 He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. 53 Then he took the body down from the cross and wrapped it in a long sheet of linen cloth and laid it in a new tomb that had been carved out of rock.
John 19
38 Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus’ body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39 With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night.
One of the interesting things about reading the Chronological One Year Bible, is getting to see the different accounts side-by-side as you are reading. Two things really jump out at me in this story as told by each of the four Gospel writers:
1) Joseph “took a risk.”
2) He was a “secret disciple” as was Nicodemus.
I wonder how many of us would be classified as a “secret disciple?” How many of us allow the fear of some group from whom we think we need approval to keep us quiet about wanting to follow Jesus. I mean, it certainly is not Politically Correct to do so, and the PC Police are anything but tolerant when it comes to those who would follow Christ. So, lots of folks choose to try to be “closet followers” of Christ. There comes a time when that is simply no longer an option. A risk must be taken. Just like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus did. I just pray that those who are “closet followers” don’t wait too late, because Jesus says that he who acknowledges Him before me will be acknowledged by Him before the Father. Conversely those who deny Him before men, will be denied by Jesus before the Father.
43 Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.)
Matthew 27
57 As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, 58 went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. 59 Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. 60 He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left.
Luke 23
50 Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph. He was a member of the Jewish high council, 51 but he had not agreed with the decision and actions of the other religious leaders. He was from the town of Arimathea in Judea, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come. 52 He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. 53 Then he took the body down from the cross and wrapped it in a long sheet of linen cloth and laid it in a new tomb that had been carved out of rock.
John 19
38 Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus’ body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39 With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night.
One of the interesting things about reading the Chronological One Year Bible, is getting to see the different accounts side-by-side as you are reading. Two things really jump out at me in this story as told by each of the four Gospel writers:
1) Joseph “took a risk.”
2) He was a “secret disciple” as was Nicodemus.
I wonder how many of us would be classified as a “secret disciple?” How many of us allow the fear of some group from whom we think we need approval to keep us quiet about wanting to follow Jesus. I mean, it certainly is not Politically Correct to do so, and the PC Police are anything but tolerant when it comes to those who would follow Christ. So, lots of folks choose to try to be “closet followers” of Christ. There comes a time when that is simply no longer an option. A risk must be taken. Just like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus did. I just pray that those who are “closet followers” don’t wait too late, because Jesus says that he who acknowledges Him before me will be acknowledged by Him before the Father. Conversely those who deny Him before men, will be denied by Jesus before the Father.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The Enemy Has Been Defeated
Mark 15
37 Then Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.
What satan planned as a defeat, God used for a great victory! When Jesus breathed His last breath on this earth, satan thought he had won. But the curtain separating the holy of holies from the most holy place in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, signifying the separation between God and man no longer existed. Last night, I had the privilege of baptizing into Christ a dear friend of mine. It topped off an amazing day of good news on several fronts. This morning, I was made aware of some grumbling aimed in my direction. It is easy to get absorbed by the grumblers and allow my joy to be taken away, but I will not give in. Of course satan is on the attack! VCC is doing great things for God. People are coming to know Christ. People are serving Jesus more than ever here. To be attacked from within the ranks is one of satan’s biggest ploys. I will not let it get me down. I will press on, knowing that I serve a risen Savior, that I have support from my Elders and Preacher, and knowing that satan is a wimp. He is only good at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, so I will continue to be faithful in my service to Christ so that the enemy remains defeated! I will do so with great joy and with a song of praise in my heart!
37 Then Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.
What satan planned as a defeat, God used for a great victory! When Jesus breathed His last breath on this earth, satan thought he had won. But the curtain separating the holy of holies from the most holy place in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, signifying the separation between God and man no longer existed. Last night, I had the privilege of baptizing into Christ a dear friend of mine. It topped off an amazing day of good news on several fronts. This morning, I was made aware of some grumbling aimed in my direction. It is easy to get absorbed by the grumblers and allow my joy to be taken away, but I will not give in. Of course satan is on the attack! VCC is doing great things for God. People are coming to know Christ. People are serving Jesus more than ever here. To be attacked from within the ranks is one of satan’s biggest ploys. I will not let it get me down. I will press on, knowing that I serve a risen Savior, that I have support from my Elders and Preacher, and knowing that satan is a wimp. He is only good at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, so I will continue to be faithful in my service to Christ so that the enemy remains defeated! I will do so with great joy and with a song of praise in my heart!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Truth
John 18
33 Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked him.
34 Jesus replied, “Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?”
35 “Am I a Jew?” Pilate retorted. “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?”
36 Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
37 Pilate said, “So you are a king?”
Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”
38 “What is truth?” Pilate asked.
“What is truth?” Jesus is the Truth. Jesus is the Way. Jesus is the Life. In a world desperately seeking truth in all the wrong places, it is our responsibilities to teach the Truth in Love so that those seeking may have everlasting Life. Who will you reach today?
33 Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked him.
34 Jesus replied, “Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?”
35 “Am I a Jew?” Pilate retorted. “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?”
36 Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”
37 Pilate said, “So you are a king?”
Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”
38 “What is truth?” Pilate asked.
“What is truth?” Jesus is the Truth. Jesus is the Way. Jesus is the Life. In a world desperately seeking truth in all the wrong places, it is our responsibilities to teach the Truth in Love so that those seeking may have everlasting Life. Who will you reach today?
Monday, November 2, 2009
Bitter Tears
Mark 14
66 Meanwhile, Peter was in the courtyard below. One of the servant girls who worked for the high priest came by 67 and noticed Peter warming himself at the fire. She looked at him closely and said, “You were one of those with Jesus of Nazareth.”
68 But Peter denied it. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, and he went out into the entryway. Just then, a rooster crowed.
69 When the servant girl saw him standing there, she began telling the others, “This man is definitely one of them!” 70 But Peter denied it again.
A little later some of the other bystanders confronted Peter and said, “You must be one of them, because you are a Galilean.”
71 Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know this man you’re talking about!” 72 And immediately the rooster crowed the second time.
Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he broke down and wept.
Oh, if I only wept bitter tears when I deny Jesus. I mean, we pick on Peter in this passage, because after swearing that he will stick with Jesus no matter what, he does deny Jesus three times just as our Lord had said he would. Even though Peter promised it would never happen…it did. When I think about the promises I have made to Jesus…promises to stick with Him through thick and thin…promises to NEVER deny Him with my words, nor my actions…well breaking down in bitter tears would be appropriate. Just as Peter was restored by Jesus, I am so glad that my repentance restores me in my relationship with my Lord and Savior. Father, help me to do better in my walk with Jesus. May I walk closer to Him so that denial doesn’t come so easily. May I live a life that reflects the love of Christ to everyone, especially those who would hate me because of Christ. Especially those who have hurt me, or my family. The rooster has crowed, may my bitter tears be wiped away by the hands of my Loving Lord.
66 Meanwhile, Peter was in the courtyard below. One of the servant girls who worked for the high priest came by 67 and noticed Peter warming himself at the fire. She looked at him closely and said, “You were one of those with Jesus of Nazareth.”
68 But Peter denied it. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, and he went out into the entryway. Just then, a rooster crowed.
69 When the servant girl saw him standing there, she began telling the others, “This man is definitely one of them!” 70 But Peter denied it again.
A little later some of the other bystanders confronted Peter and said, “You must be one of them, because you are a Galilean.”
71 Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know this man you’re talking about!” 72 And immediately the rooster crowed the second time.
Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he broke down and wept.
Oh, if I only wept bitter tears when I deny Jesus. I mean, we pick on Peter in this passage, because after swearing that he will stick with Jesus no matter what, he does deny Jesus three times just as our Lord had said he would. Even though Peter promised it would never happen…it did. When I think about the promises I have made to Jesus…promises to stick with Him through thick and thin…promises to NEVER deny Him with my words, nor my actions…well breaking down in bitter tears would be appropriate. Just as Peter was restored by Jesus, I am so glad that my repentance restores me in my relationship with my Lord and Savior. Father, help me to do better in my walk with Jesus. May I walk closer to Him so that denial doesn’t come so easily. May I live a life that reflects the love of Christ to everyone, especially those who would hate me because of Christ. Especially those who have hurt me, or my family. The rooster has crowed, may my bitter tears be wiped away by the hands of my Loving Lord.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Praying for God's Will
Matthew 26
39 He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
How could I dare grumble about anything God wants of me? How could I dare fret over where God has placed me? Jesus, knowing that He was about to be scourged and crucified, pays that God’s will be done. That needs to be the prayer of my lips. That needs to be the attitude of my heart. As I go through my daily life, with the ups and downs, and the struggles, I have no reason to grumble. I have every reason to give my praise to my Lord, and to long for His will to be done.
39 He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
How could I dare grumble about anything God wants of me? How could I dare fret over where God has placed me? Jesus, knowing that He was about to be scourged and crucified, pays that God’s will be done. That needs to be the prayer of my lips. That needs to be the attitude of my heart. As I go through my daily life, with the ups and downs, and the struggles, I have no reason to grumble. I have every reason to give my praise to my Lord, and to long for His will to be done.
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