Matthew 26:51-54
51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”
Unlike other religions, true Christianity is not spread through killing, for Jesus said we would die by the war we wage. This does not rule out nations warring, but war in the name of Christ which is not the way we are to wage it - our weapons are not of man but "mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor.10:4-5). We battle for the hearts and minds of men by the truth of the gospel, which Word God uses to take thoughts captive for good and not destruction. Jesus as God in us is never powerless, but almighty.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Father, Your WIll be Done!
Matthew 26:39-42
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” 40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”
When we pray fervently, we should follow in Jesus steps - not what we want, but searching out what God wants that aligns with His will as seen in His word. Then we can persevere in prayer no matter how weak we are, knowing that He will accomplish all His work. We can be part of that if we keep in step with His Spirit and word, no matter the consequences for us. This is the example Jesus gave, the disciples followed, and many through the centuries since have truly testified.
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” 40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”
When we pray fervently, we should follow in Jesus steps - not what we want, but searching out what God wants that aligns with His will as seen in His word. Then we can persevere in prayer no matter how weak we are, knowing that He will accomplish all His work. We can be part of that if we keep in step with His Spirit and word, no matter the consequences for us. This is the example Jesus gave, the disciples followed, and many through the centuries since have truly testified.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Blood for Remission of Sins
Matthew 26:27-29
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.”
Jesus shed His blood, dying where we deserved to, in order to enter the covenant with Him for life unending. We are reconciled and forgiven of our sin - each and every one we would ever commit. And when we stand before Him forever we will drink in fellowship and true communion with the Lord and God of the universe! How I long for that day to stand, though now my flesh and heart fail me as Job said...
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.”
Jesus shed His blood, dying where we deserved to, in order to enter the covenant with Him for life unending. We are reconciled and forgiven of our sin - each and every one we would ever commit. And when we stand before Him forever we will drink in fellowship and true communion with the Lord and God of the universe! How I long for that day to stand, though now my flesh and heart fail me as Job said...
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Betrayed for Earthly Gain
Matthew 26:14-16, 21
14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him. 21 Now as they were eating, He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.”
Jesus knew before Judas sought to give Him up that he would do so, and for such a small price in comparison to the woman with very expensive ointment poured out on Jesus for His burial. But God knows our hearts and what we will choose to do; there is absolutely nothing He does not see coming. We never fool God in either the bad we do or the good. He paid the ultimate price for us when we did not deserve it, and so we must follow as the 11 disciples did.
14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him. 21 Now as they were eating, He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.”
Jesus knew before Judas sought to give Him up that he would do so, and for such a small price in comparison to the woman with very expensive ointment poured out on Jesus for His burial. But God knows our hearts and what we will choose to do; there is absolutely nothing He does not see coming. We never fool God in either the bad we do or the good. He paid the ultimate price for us when we did not deserve it, and so we must follow as the 11 disciples did.
Friday, July 24, 2015
Memorial Service
Matthew 26:2, 6-13
2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” 6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.” 10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. 13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”
The disciples were told that Jesus would be crucified, but they appeared to not believe or understand. But a woman at a leper's house anointed Him for burial. She understood, and Jesus told them all that what she did should be part of the gospel message always - because this example is taking God at His word and honoring Him (Trust and Obey).
2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” 6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.” 10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. 13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”
The disciples were told that Jesus would be crucified, but they appeared to not believe or understand. But a woman at a leper's house anointed Him for burial. She understood, and Jesus told them all that what she did should be part of the gospel message always - because this example is taking God at His word and honoring Him (Trust and Obey).
Waste or Memorial?
Matthew 26:2, 6-13
2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” 6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.” 10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. 13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”
The disciples were told that Jesus would be crucified, but they appeared to not believe or understand. But a woman at a leper's house anointed Him for burial. She understood, and Jesus told them all that what she did should be part of the gospel message always - because this example is taking God at His word and honoring Him (Trust and Obey).
2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” 6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.” 10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. 13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”
The disciples were told that Jesus would be crucified, but they appeared to not believe or understand. But a woman at a leper's house anointed Him for burial. She understood, and Jesus told them all that what she did should be part of the gospel message always - because this example is taking God at His word and honoring Him (Trust and Obey).
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Everlasting Punishment or Life?
Matthew 25:32-35, 40, 45-46
32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. ... 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; .. 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ .. 45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
God prepared a kingdom for we to be made righteous; we demonstrate that by our tangible love for others, and are assured of unending life in His presence. Those who in word only do not show love for others do not have the chosen and prepared kingdom, and do not love as God loves us first. Their forever is a life of unending punishment, not life with their Maker and Lord. It is infinitely better to be a loving sheep than a selfish goat.
32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. ... 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; .. 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ .. 45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
God prepared a kingdom for we to be made righteous; we demonstrate that by our tangible love for others, and are assured of unending life in His presence. Those who in word only do not show love for others do not have the chosen and prepared kingdom, and do not love as God loves us first. Their forever is a life of unending punishment, not life with their Maker and Lord. It is infinitely better to be a loving sheep than a selfish goat.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Fruitful Ambassadors with Interest
Matthew 25:14-15, 29-30
14 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. ... 29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
We are entrusted with the words of life in Christ; no invented philosophy or religion of man has such value from here to eternity. Yet we need to consider what we do with this surpassing treasure - do we invest in others, or do we bury it inside and wait for God to do everything for us? While only He can draw men to Himself (not by our persuasion or reasoning), yet He has chosen for us to be fruitful ambassadors with interest.
14 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. ... 29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
We are entrusted with the words of life in Christ; no invented philosophy or religion of man has such value from here to eternity. Yet we need to consider what we do with this surpassing treasure - do we invest in others, or do we bury it inside and wait for God to do everything for us? While only He can draw men to Himself (not by our persuasion or reasoning), yet He has chosen for us to be fruitful ambassadors with interest.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Watch and Follow Daily
Matthew 25:1-5, 12-13
1 “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. ... 12 But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ 13 “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.
Are we prepared for the Lord when He comes back? Does He know us, or do we only fool ourselves into thinking we know Him, relying on empty religious activity instead of a rebirth which fills us with the oil of His very Spirit within us? He will come when least expected, without warning, and only through knowing God through the way who is truth will we have this life. Watch, and follow Him.
1 “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. ... 12 But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ 13 “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.
Are we prepared for the Lord when He comes back? Does He know us, or do we only fool ourselves into thinking we know Him, relying on empty religious activity instead of a rebirth which fills us with the oil of His very Spirit within us? He will come when least expected, without warning, and only through knowing God through the way who is truth will we have this life. Watch, and follow Him.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Faithful and Wise Servant
Matthew 24:45-47
45 “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. 47 Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.
A faithful servant uses what he is given to feed and care for others in the household of God. Using the gifts we are given, we build up the house of God with timely help, not holding back or even treating others badly because the Lord is not back yet. Faithfulness in caring for our brothers and sisters in Christ pleases God as the greatest reward of all as it meets needs.
45 “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. 47 Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.
A faithful servant uses what he is given to feed and care for others in the household of God. Using the gifts we are given, we build up the house of God with timely help, not holding back or even treating others badly because the Lord is not back yet. Faithfulness in caring for our brothers and sisters in Christ pleases God as the greatest reward of all as it meets needs.
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Are You Ready for His Return?
Matthew 24:40-44
40 Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. 42 Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 44 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Are we ready for the Lord Jesus Christ when he comes back to pass just sentence on mankind? We do not know when He returns, no more than you know when a thief breaks in to steal all that is valuable to you. But we can listen to the alarms and be ready...and not be one not entering with Him to the Kingdom. Only through Christ's work on the cross for us is there protection from the tied who came to kill and destroy.
40 Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. 42 Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 44 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Are we ready for the Lord Jesus Christ when he comes back to pass just sentence on mankind? We do not know when He returns, no more than you know when a thief breaks in to steal all that is valuable to you. But we can listen to the alarms and be ready...and not be one not entering with Him to the Kingdom. Only through Christ's work on the cross for us is there protection from the tied who came to kill and destroy.
Saturday, July 18, 2015
When Jesus Returns
Matthew 24:32-37
32 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! 34 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. 36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
There are signs, events which show God's working to wrap things up at the end, yet we do not know exactly when Jesus will return to gather us. His words of life and of judgment are certain. His plan is absolute, even if we do not know the timetable - but we can trust Him to do as He said. Most people will ignore this and just go on with life and reject Him as before the Flood, but there is hope to get on board by faith in Christ now before that sudden end.
32 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! 34 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. 36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
There are signs, events which show God's working to wrap things up at the end, yet we do not know exactly when Jesus will return to gather us. His words of life and of judgment are certain. His plan is absolute, even if we do not know the timetable - but we can trust Him to do as He said. Most people will ignore this and just go on with life and reject Him as before the Flood, but there is hope to get on board by faith in Christ now before that sudden end.
Friday, July 17, 2015
Gathering the Elect
Matthew 24:29-31
29 “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There will be trouble, affliction, and distress before God comes back to execute judgment which has been held back from time's beginning until that end. To imagine the universe collapse on us as all is shaken up - and then Jesus Christ seen coming in all the power of the Creator of the universe and all of us in it - this will cause distress from all who have mocked and laughed at the good news that had been offered to be delivered from due judgment on us all. Ah, but those He called out, who responded by believing and acting on the message, they will be gathered to Himself at last.
29 “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There will be trouble, affliction, and distress before God comes back to execute judgment which has been held back from time's beginning until that end. To imagine the universe collapse on us as all is shaken up - and then Jesus Christ seen coming in all the power of the Creator of the universe and all of us in it - this will cause distress from all who have mocked and laughed at the good news that had been offered to be delivered from due judgment on us all. Ah, but those He called out, who responded by believing and acting on the message, they will be gathered to Himself at last.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
False Prophets Struck by Lightning
Matthew 24:23-28
23 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand. 26 “Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. 27 For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 28 For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.
Pseudo prophets abound lately, and there have also been those claiming to be saviors - but the enemy is only trying to lead people away from the eternal life only found in Jesus Christ, God come as a man. No mere mortal man can rise from 3 days dead in the grave. Jesus did. When He comes back, there will be no warning, no grand introduction by false prophets like the Jehovah's Witnesses. Those apart from Christ will fall in the end and suffer greatly for not believing Him.
23 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand. 26 “Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. 27 For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 28 For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.
Pseudo prophets abound lately, and there have also been those claiming to be saviors - but the enemy is only trying to lead people away from the eternal life only found in Jesus Christ, God come as a man. No mere mortal man can rise from 3 days dead in the grave. Jesus did. When He comes back, there will be no warning, no grand introduction by false prophets like the Jehovah's Witnesses. Those apart from Christ will fall in the end and suffer greatly for not believing Him.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Shortened Days for Elect
Matthew 24:15, 21-22
15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), ... 21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened.
When idolatry and a false God are worshipped in God's house, the end of this world is near, but so is the beginning of the remade one to come where God is before us! Though the end will get worse, He will shorten the days for those He calls out, either in taking them home, or in figuratively making them seem to go by faster, or speeding up,the events leading to His return. One thing to know is He holds us if we are His forever, so we have hope no matter what we endure or suffer.
15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), ... 21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened.
When idolatry and a false God are worshipped in God's house, the end of this world is near, but so is the beginning of the remade one to come where God is before us! Though the end will get worse, He will shorten the days for those He calls out, either in taking them home, or in figuratively making them seem to go by faster, or speeding up,the events leading to His return. One thing to know is He holds us if we are His forever, so we have hope no matter what we endure or suffer.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Endure and Preach Gospel
Matthew 24:11-14
11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
As time winds down and circumstances grow worse, more false teachers will come up within the church and outside of it, speaking proud and misleading things which lead to lawlessness and coldness. We who are Christ's must endure with love, hope, and faith - trusting who is really in control. And we must bear witness to the simple truth of the transforming gospel to all. Those hearing will know freedom bearing truth of God and not of man's construct. To not be deceived they need to hear from Him.
11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
As time winds down and circumstances grow worse, more false teachers will come up within the church and outside of it, speaking proud and misleading things which lead to lawlessness and coldness. We who are Christ's must endure with love, hope, and faith - trusting who is really in control. And we must bear witness to the simple truth of the transforming gospel to all. Those hearing will know freedom bearing truth of God and not of man's construct. To not be deceived they need to hear from Him.
Monday, July 13, 2015
Offended, Betraying, and Hateful
Matthew 24:7-10
7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.
With increased war, hunger, disease, and natural disasters like earthquakes, it appears that the end and beginning are coming closer each day. Yet this is only the beginning. There will be more persecution even to death, with offense leading to betrayal and hate from those we least expect it as the sword comes even between family members. We must not let love grow cold, but hold on until the end with hopeful eyes set on the Author and Finisher of our faith.
7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.
With increased war, hunger, disease, and natural disasters like earthquakes, it appears that the end and beginning are coming closer each day. Yet this is only the beginning. There will be more persecution even to death, with offense leading to betrayal and hate from those we least expect it as the sword comes even between family members. We must not let love grow cold, but hold on until the end with hopeful eyes set on the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Sunday, July 12, 2015
When is the End?
Matthew 24:3-6
3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
When Jesus spoke of the temple destruction, His followers asked about the end of all at His return. Jesus told of many false Messiahs and those speaking of them, and then of wars on top of the deception. But He told them and us to not be troubled about the perilous times ahead before the end to follow - because for us in Him that is also the beginning of forever with Him in a new world without the sin that led to this chaos. He is our solid hope no matter what we have to endure before then as our society falls apart and wrong becomes ever more right as of late which we see.
3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
When Jesus spoke of the temple destruction, His followers asked about the end of all at His return. Jesus told of many false Messiahs and those speaking of them, and then of wars on top of the deception. But He told them and us to not be troubled about the perilous times ahead before the end to follow - because for us in Him that is also the beginning of forever with Him in a new world without the sin that led to this chaos. He is our solid hope no matter what we have to endure before then as our society falls apart and wrong becomes ever more right as of late which we see.
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Blind Guides of Outward Appearance
Matthew 23:23-26
23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 24 Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel! 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.
Do we focus on the outward rituals, or do we work on what matters in loving God and others? Justice, mercy, and faith with a clean heart and good conscience before God in Christ are what matter. Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God we are told. So the inside must be cleansed each day as we seek forgiveness and live out each step by faith (trust) in our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, by His presence within us as the Spirit who is holy. We must daily be imitators of God and grow in grace and mercy.
23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 24 Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel! 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.
Do we focus on the outward rituals, or do we work on what matters in loving God and others? Justice, mercy, and faith with a clean heart and good conscience before God in Christ are what matter. Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God we are told. So the inside must be cleansed each day as we seek forgiveness and live out each step by faith (trust) in our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, by His presence within us as the Spirit who is holy. We must daily be imitators of God and grow in grace and mercy.
Friday, July 10, 2015
Woe to False Teachers
Matthew 23:13-15
13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in. 15 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you travel land and sea to win one proselyte, and when he is won, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.
These would keep God's kingdom from others by placing their own rules above or in place of those in God's word. So they keep others from reconciliation with God in Christ. They go out of their way, traveling far to find and mislead many more, aligning those with theirs instead of God's. Today the cults such as Mormonism do the same, as well as those Christian groups with bad teaching, emphasizing the miraculous and self-indulging misinterpretations over the simple truths of the gospel. 'Woe' is the opposite of blessed, not in God's favor.
13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in. 15 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you travel land and sea to win one proselyte, and when he is won, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.
These would keep God's kingdom from others by placing their own rules above or in place of those in God's word. So they keep others from reconciliation with God in Christ. They go out of their way, traveling far to find and mislead many more, aligning those with theirs instead of God's. Today the cults such as Mormonism do the same, as well as those Christian groups with bad teaching, emphasizing the miraculous and self-indulging misinterpretations over the simple truths of the gospel. 'Woe' is the opposite of blessed, not in God's favor.
Thursday, July 9, 2015
One Father - In Heaven Only
Matthew 23:8-12
8 But you, do not be called “Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10 And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.
The religious leaders in Jesus time, Rabbis, were leader/teachers or masters to be followed. But they became proud, exalted themselves based on the importance they gave themselves. We are told not to lift up and worship our leaders, but only God (the first commandment, old and new). Jesus alone is our master, teacher, and leader, and this should make us humble and willing servants, not lording over others as it is written, "1 Peter 5:3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;"
8 But you, do not be called “Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10 And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.
The religious leaders in Jesus time, Rabbis, were leader/teachers or masters to be followed. But they became proud, exalted themselves based on the importance they gave themselves. We are told not to lift up and worship our leaders, but only God (the first commandment, old and new). Jesus alone is our master, teacher, and leader, and this should make us humble and willing servants, not lording over others as it is written, "1 Peter 5:3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;"
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Follow Biblical Truth, Not Bad Examples
Matthew 23:1-4
1 Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, 2 saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
When truth is spoken, even by those not doing what they say, we are still required to do it. There is no excuse of not being accountable to God because of the messenger not being faithful and obedient himself. We all are individually accountable to God for what we hear, not by what we choose to not do because someone else does not practice what they preach. What goes beyond God's word, however, we are not obligated to do. God's word, not man's, is the standard. We live to God and we die to Him.
1 Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, 2 saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
When truth is spoken, even by those not doing what they say, we are still required to do it. There is no excuse of not being accountable to God because of the messenger not being faithful and obedient himself. We all are individually accountable to God for what we hear, not by what we choose to not do because someone else does not practice what they preach. What goes beyond God's word, however, we are not obligated to do. God's word, not man's, is the standard. We live to God and we die to Him.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Son of God
Matthew 22:42-46
42 saying, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?” They said to Him, “The Son of David.” 43 He said to them, “How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,’ saying: 44 “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool’ ”? 45 If David then calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He his Son?” 46 And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.
When faced with the truth from the Bible that Jesus Christ is Lord, God as a man, many will stop arguing yet also not want to question the truth farther to understand. Many fear accountability to God for their sin which they know they have, but refuse to admit lest they have to answer for it. Unfortunately, we all answer for it to Him, and Christ is the only way of truth to have life forever in God's presence. It is better to keep asking, seeking, and knocking for understanding who Jesus is than to turn away in pride or fear.
42 saying, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?” They said to Him, “The Son of David.” 43 He said to them, “How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,’ saying: 44 “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool’ ”? 45 If David then calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He his Son?” 46 And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.
When faced with the truth from the Bible that Jesus Christ is Lord, God as a man, many will stop arguing yet also not want to question the truth farther to understand. Many fear accountability to God for their sin which they know they have, but refuse to admit lest they have to answer for it. Unfortunately, we all answer for it to Him, and Christ is the only way of truth to have life forever in God's presence. It is better to keep asking, seeking, and knocking for understanding who Jesus is than to turn away in pride or fear.
Monday, July 6, 2015
Two Great Commandments
Matthew 22:36-40
36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” 37 Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
The summation of the law, the first and second commandments, cover all that is in the details of the ten and what should guide or motivate us. Loving God with every aspect and effort of who we are comes first, and right after that is to love others as we do ourselves. This means living with active and living worship to God and caring to do the best to others (as we want them to do to us). This is what holds the entire Bible together, for God sees the heart, our deepest motive, along with action.
36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” 37 Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
The summation of the law, the first and second commandments, cover all that is in the details of the ten and what should guide or motivate us. Loving God with every aspect and effort of who we are comes first, and right after that is to love others as we do ourselves. This means living with active and living worship to God and caring to do the best to others (as we want them to do to us). This is what holds the entire Bible together, for God sees the heart, our deepest motive, along with action.
Sunday, July 5, 2015
No Marriage in Resurrection
Matthew 22:29-32
29 Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God. 30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven. 31 But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying, 32 “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ ? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.”
God has the power to raise dead people and bring them to Himself as His word tells us. He is trustworthy and has proven this on the cross and back with Jesus - and so it will be with us. Where we go after death and beyond is what matters. He is God of the living, offering never ending life either with Him through Jesus Christ, or apart from Him forever in suffering. I have been called to eternity and trusted that call to respond in accepting, active belief. So I know where the new life begun here will go on after death. We all must and can know the answer to this for ourselves with certainty.
29 Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God. 30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven. 31 But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying, 32 “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ ? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.”
God has the power to raise dead people and bring them to Himself as His word tells us. He is trustworthy and has proven this on the cross and back with Jesus - and so it will be with us. Where we go after death and beyond is what matters. He is God of the living, offering never ending life either with Him through Jesus Christ, or apart from Him forever in suffering. I have been called to eternity and trusted that call to respond in accepting, active belief. So I know where the new life begun here will go on after death. We all must and can know the answer to this for ourselves with certainty.
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Taxes and Tribute
Matthew 22:17-22
17 Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, “Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? 19 Show Me the tax money.” So they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” 21 They said to Him, “Caesar's.” And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 22 When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.
Even then people complained of taxes, yet Jesus' answer is overlooked today. He said that the money is not ours, but the nation's we live in, and ultimately it belongs to that government. The difference now is people still complain to pay what is due because we have a say in the laws that allow taxes - to an extent. So the best route is to use that freedom to help the laws, but not make taxes become a stumbling block. We have treasure that is infinitely more valuable.
17 Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, “Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? 19 Show Me the tax money.” So they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” 21 They said to Him, “Caesar's.” And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 22 When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.
Even then people complained of taxes, yet Jesus' answer is overlooked today. He said that the money is not ours, but the nation's we live in, and ultimately it belongs to that government. The difference now is people still complain to pay what is due because we have a say in the laws that allow taxes - to an extent. So the best route is to use that freedom to help the laws, but not make taxes become a stumbling block. We have treasure that is infinitely more valuable.
Friday, July 3, 2015
Dressed in Christ's Righteousness
Matthew 22:11-14
11 “But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.”
The gospel message is offered as seed broadcast everywhere, and the invitation is to be the bride of Christ. Yet many refuse, attack the messengers, or come without His righteousness, unregenerate and clothed only in religion. Many that do come are unprepared, unclean, and unchosen - attempting to enter in an of their own effort and choice, apart from God. The call is only heard by the chosen ones who put on the righteous clothing fit for the wedding, that given by Christ's work and absolute holiness alone, given for us to put on.
11 “But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.”
The gospel message is offered as seed broadcast everywhere, and the invitation is to be the bride of Christ. Yet many refuse, attack the messengers, or come without His righteousness, unregenerate and clothed only in religion. Many that do come are unprepared, unclean, and unchosen - attempting to enter in an of their own effort and choice, apart from God. The call is only heard by the chosen ones who put on the righteous clothing fit for the wedding, that given by Christ's work and absolute holiness alone, given for us to put on.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Sola Scriptura Threatens the Religious
Matthew 21:45-46
45 Now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard His parables, they perceived that He was speaking of them. 46 But when they sought to lay hands on Him, they feared the multitudes, because they took Him for a prophet.
When religious people have their system of belief threatened and feel it is a personal judgement, they want to fight - even if they do not fully understand God's truth that reveals their error and motives that come short of His standards. Here they did not want accountability to God to upset their comfortable and self serving system, and wanted to grab hold of Jesus. But they realized that others would judge or attack them if they did so to one others looked up to. So they began plotting to get rid of Him...
45 Now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard His parables, they perceived that He was speaking of them. 46 But when they sought to lay hands on Him, they feared the multitudes, because they took Him for a prophet.
When religious people have their system of belief threatened and feel it is a personal judgement, they want to fight - even if they do not fully understand God's truth that reveals their error and motives that come short of His standards. Here they did not want accountability to God to upset their comfortable and self serving system, and wanted to grab hold of Jesus. But they realized that others would judge or attack them if they did so to one others looked up to. So they began plotting to get rid of Him...
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