Mark 7:13-23
13 making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.” 18 So He said to them, “Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, 19 because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?” 20 And He said, “What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within and defile a man.”
When we put tradition over God's words to us we will inevitably allow our fallen, fleshly thoughts and motives drive us in sin. This is due to the pride in our supposed knowledge of good and evil apart from His guidelines on what evil and good are - the original mistake of sin. We are made unclean by our hearts and what results out of our words that disobey God as a result of our foolish pride. We need clean hearts, not washing the outside appearance only.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Lip Service Religion
Mark 7:3-8
3 For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands in a special way, holding the tradition of the elders. ... 6 He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. 7 And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men—the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.”
Religion demands mandatory activities as sacred in place of God's commands. These traditions become problems with God when they override His words to us by making personal choices into judgements on others who do not do the same as the creators of the mere traditions. We would be wise to examine what others do which we insist God demands and angers or irritates us when they do not do those things - if God did not command it, it is not demanded. Speak truth in love above all.
3 For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands in a special way, holding the tradition of the elders. ... 6 He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. 7 And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men—the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.”
Religion demands mandatory activities as sacred in place of God's commands. These traditions become problems with God when they override His words to us by making personal choices into judgements on others who do not do the same as the creators of the mere traditions. We would be wise to examine what others do which we insist God demands and angers or irritates us when they do not do those things - if God did not command it, it is not demanded. Speak truth in love above all.
Monday, September 28, 2015
Personal Encounter
Mark 6:54-56
54 And when they came out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him, 55 ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was. 56 Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.
People immediately knew who Jesus was when He got off the boat. They did not have to stop and think or ask each other who it was; they knew even before He made any of them well. Was it just because they were waiting for the healer and so told each other what He looked like, or did they see the love of God poured out in Christ in their midst? Seeing and touching Him, believing and receiving the Son of God, makes us well for eternity.
54 And when they came out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him, 55 ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was. 56 Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.
People immediately knew who Jesus was when He got off the boat. They did not have to stop and think or ask each other who it was; they knew even before He made any of them well. Was it just because they were waiting for the healer and so told each other what He looked like, or did they see the love of God poured out in Christ in their midst? Seeing and touching Him, believing and receiving the Son of God, makes us well for eternity.
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Walking on Water: Don't Be Afraid
Mark 6:48-52
48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. 49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” 51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. 52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.
Jesus fed 5,000 people with a handful of food, an impossible act for man, then comes walking on the sea and got in the boat. The wind stopped. This was also impossible for a man to do, yet the hardness of the followers did not allow them to see God in their midst, Emmanuel. To be greatly amazed beyond measure is understandable, but we need to trust God's work even when it is beyond us. This is faith looking to God in Christ alone.
48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. 49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” 51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. 52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.
Jesus fed 5,000 people with a handful of food, an impossible act for man, then comes walking on the sea and got in the boat. The wind stopped. This was also impossible for a man to do, yet the hardness of the followers did not allow them to see God in their midst, Emmanuel. To be greatly amazed beyond measure is understandable, but we need to trust God's work even when it is beyond us. This is faith looking to God in Christ alone.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Sheep Without a Shepherd
Mark 6:33-36
33 But the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him. 34 And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. 35 When the day was now far spent, His disciples came to Him and said, “This is a deserted place, and already the hour is late. 36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves bread; for they have nothing to eat.”
People ran after Jesus to be taught and fed. He showed compassion for both - He taught them of the kingdom of God (by faith and repentance with self control as Paul told a king in Acts) and fed them out of a seemingly insignificant amount of food. Jesus gave them more substantial manna, meeting their needs just enough to satisfy. So He does for us, and so we also hunger for more, trusting His supply.
33 But the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him. 34 And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. 35 When the day was now far spent, His disciples came to Him and said, “This is a deserted place, and already the hour is late. 36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves bread; for they have nothing to eat.”
People ran after Jesus to be taught and fed. He showed compassion for both - He taught them of the kingdom of God (by faith and repentance with self control as Paul told a king in Acts) and fed them out of a seemingly insignificant amount of food. Jesus gave them more substantial manna, meeting their needs just enough to satisfy. So He does for us, and so we also hunger for more, trusting His supply.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Come Aside and Rest a While
Mark 6:30-32
30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. 31 And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. 32 So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.
When we serve God and teach others we must be joyful and satisfied in the work, but there is a need to also find rest and take time with Him alone as well. They were so busy hat they did not even eat! Jesus taught His followers this crucial principle of time to rest here as they went with Him after being sent out, carrying nothing but good news. So we must be about our Father's business, but take time alone with Him each day as well.
30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. 31 And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. 32 So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.
When we serve God and teach others we must be joyful and satisfied in the work, but there is a need to also find rest and take time with Him alone as well. They were so busy hat they did not even eat! Jesus taught His followers this crucial principle of time to rest here as they went with Him after being sent out, carrying nothing but good news. So we must be about our Father's business, but take time alone with Him each day as well.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Who is Jesus Christ?
Mark 6:14-16
14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” 15 Others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is the Prophet, or like one of the prophets.” 16 But when Herod heard, he said, “This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!”
Who is Jesus Christ? He was well known when walking this earth, and is still talked about by many; but who do you say that He is? Is He just a prophet or someone else? Consider that He is who He said - God among us, the very word of creation at the beginning of time who has become a man to suffer in our place, take God's wrath on our sin as a forever sacrifice, and rise from death to give us life who trust His word that He did all these things? Who Jesus is is the crux of eternity for us all.
14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” 15 Others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is the Prophet, or like one of the prophets.” 16 But when Herod heard, he said, “This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!”
Who is Jesus Christ? He was well known when walking this earth, and is still talked about by many; but who do you say that He is? Is He just a prophet or someone else? Consider that He is who He said - God among us, the very word of creation at the beginning of time who has become a man to suffer in our place, take God's wrath on our sin as a forever sacrifice, and rise from death to give us life who trust His word that He did all these things? Who Jesus is is the crux of eternity for us all.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Preach Repentance to Forgiveness
Mark 6:10-12
10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!” 12 So they went out and preached that people should repent.
When Jesus sent the disciples out to tell the good news, He told them to trust by not taking anything with them. God would supply their needs by those they spoke to along the way. But if they did not listen, they were to testify against their refusal to hear and turn from sin and towards God. The hearings were only to prove they spoke for Jesus, and to echo the spiritual healing they still needed. Most importantly, repentance to forgiveness is the gospel's foundation.
10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!” 12 So they went out and preached that people should repent.
When Jesus sent the disciples out to tell the good news, He told them to trust by not taking anything with them. God would supply their needs by those they spoke to along the way. But if they did not listen, they were to testify against their refusal to hear and turn from sin and towards God. The hearings were only to prove they spoke for Jesus, and to echo the spiritual healing they still needed. Most importantly, repentance to forgiveness is the gospel's foundation.
Monday, September 21, 2015
Eyes Must Be Opened
Mark 6:3-6
3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. 4 But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” 5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. 6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.
The wisdom and great works Jesus had done were beyond comprehension to those He grew up with. They could not see the divine, only the man, and stumbled at who the Messiah is. So their lack of faith (active anti-faith) kept them from accepting the healing of both body and soul. Even today people refuse to believe and trust God among us. But the ones whose eyes are opened by that light to see and ears opened to hear find the God they seek has been right in front of them all along.
3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. 4 But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” 5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. 6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.
The wisdom and great works Jesus had done were beyond comprehension to those He grew up with. They could not see the divine, only the man, and stumbled at who the Messiah is. So their lack of faith (active anti-faith) kept them from accepting the healing of both body and soul. Even today people refuse to believe and trust God among us. But the ones whose eyes are opened by that light to see and ears opened to hear find the God they seek has been right in front of them all along.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Resurrection Ridiculed
Mark 5:38-42
38 Then He came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw a tumult and those who wept and wailed loudly. 39 When He came in, He said to them, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping.” 40 And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. 41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” 42 Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement.
Jesus proved here and with Lazarus that He had power to give life to the dead. How much more then is He able to give us life unending in His very presence forever? God alone who created us by His living Word can but speak life into us, from Adam to you and I. When He calls us to rise in the end for final judgment, will you know with certainty that you will have unending life with Him?
38 Then He came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw a tumult and those who wept and wailed loudly. 39 When He came in, He said to them, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping.” 40 And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. 41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” 42 Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement.
Jesus proved here and with Lazarus that He had power to give life to the dead. How much more then is He able to give us life unending in His very presence forever? God alone who created us by His living Word can but speak life into us, from Adam to you and I. When He calls us to rise in the end for final judgment, will you know with certainty that you will have unending life with Him?
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Faith Makes Us Well
Mark 5:25-34
25 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, 26 and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. 28 For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.” 29 Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction. ... 33 But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. 34 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”
When all our efforts leave us wanting, we can turn to the God-man Jesus Christ in trust with belief in action. He is merciful and forgiving, and desires our souls to be well. Though He does not physically heal everyone, all who touch Him are made well in spirit forever. Anything more is a gift. Let us seek peace with God in Christ to be completely well in our reconciliation with the Father.
25 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, 26 and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. 28 For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.” 29 Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction. ... 33 But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. 34 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”
When all our efforts leave us wanting, we can turn to the God-man Jesus Christ in trust with belief in action. He is merciful and forgiving, and desires our souls to be well. Though He does not physically heal everyone, all who touch Him are made well in spirit forever. Anything more is a gift. Let us seek peace with God in Christ to be completely well in our reconciliation with the Father.
Friday, September 18, 2015
Made Well to Tell
Mark 5:18-20
18 And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” 20 And he departed and began to proclaim in Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.
When Jesus makes a man well, whether or not physically (spiritually in the heart is paramount), that man is compelled to follow Him wherever He goes. But this also means that the man must tell all what Jesus has done for and in him - then all will marvel at the changes inside and out. Jesus transforms lives, making us new, so we must tell of that work of grace in us as we follow our Master's footsteps.
18 And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” 20 And he departed and began to proclaim in Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.
When Jesus makes a man well, whether or not physically (spiritually in the heart is paramount), that man is compelled to follow Him wherever He goes. But this also means that the man must tell all what Jesus has done for and in him - then all will marvel at the changes inside and out. Jesus transforms lives, making us new, so we must tell of that work of grace in us as we follow our Master's footsteps.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Peace, Be Still!
Mark 4:35-41
38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”
When crossing to the other side, the storm made these believe they were perishing - much like us dying in sin when we cross over in death. But the hope we have in Christ lets us see how He rules the stormy winds and waves of life, death, and judgment. The universe was made by Him as God's very word that spoke it into existence, so why fear if we are in His hands that formed us and all around?
38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”
When crossing to the other side, the storm made these believe they were perishing - much like us dying in sin when we cross over in death. But the hope we have in Christ lets us see how He rules the stormy winds and waves of life, death, and judgment. The universe was made by Him as God's very word that spoke it into existence, so why fear if we are in His hands that formed us and all around?
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Parable Comparisons of Eternal Things
Mark 4:33-34
33 And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.
Jesus compared spiritual things with known physical examples to give the opportunity to understand God's ways, yet even His close followers needed these pointed out and made clear. When people are confronted with these truths they need His help. We do not as fallen men think as God does - even the Jews in the Old Testament heard the truth unveiled and disobeyed. So Jesus gave the chance to think and wrestle to grasp what God has been saying all along. Thus the parables. And so His Spirit to give understanding...
33 And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.
Jesus compared spiritual things with known physical examples to give the opportunity to understand God's ways, yet even His close followers needed these pointed out and made clear. When people are confronted with these truths they need His help. We do not as fallen men think as God does - even the Jews in the Old Testament heard the truth unveiled and disobeyed. So Jesus gave the chance to think and wrestle to grasp what God has been saying all along. Thus the parables. And so His Spirit to give understanding...
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
A Seemingly Insignificant Seed
Mark 4:30-32
30 Then He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; 32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.”
God's kingdom starts with a seed, small and seemingly insignificant. But in time it becomes as a tree, branching out and providing home and shelter to live and grow in. This is true in both individuals and in Christ's work in the universal church. In each of us when we are reborn we grow over time in sanctification, becoming more like Jesus, and so His kingdom grows within us. In the larger group of all new creation we see His kingdom grow into eternity as more find their home in Him. So is he refuge with shade for the heat of the day until He returns.
30 Then He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; 32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.”
God's kingdom starts with a seed, small and seemingly insignificant. But in time it becomes as a tree, branching out and providing home and shelter to live and grow in. This is true in both individuals and in Christ's work in the universal church. In each of us when we are reborn we grow over time in sanctification, becoming more like Jesus, and so His kingdom grows within us. In the larger group of all new creation we see His kingdom grow into eternity as more find their home in Him. So is he refuge with shade for the heat of the day until He returns.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Implanted Word Grows in the Heart
Mark 4:26-29
26 And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”
God's kingdom grows in the heart of man by His word which is sown. Those who hear and heed take root and grow, one step at a time until mature. The harvest takes these of the kingdom to Himself - it is God's kingdom - but those not taking root or as unfruitful weeds are burned. This parable shows us the word of the gospel must change a man if he is to be gathered to God in the end, and that growing to maturity takes time.
26 And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”
God's kingdom grows in the heart of man by His word which is sown. Those who hear and heed take root and grow, one step at a time until mature. The harvest takes these of the kingdom to Himself - it is God's kingdom - but those not taking root or as unfruitful weeds are burned. This parable shows us the word of the gospel must change a man if he is to be gathered to God in the end, and that growing to maturity takes time.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Listening to Hear
Mark 4:23-25
23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 24 Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. 25 For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”
Not only do we need to be willing to hear and led by God, we must pay attention to how we listen - is it to put into practice as we take it to heart? Do we generously give back to Him and to others to the best of the ability given to us? If so, more will be entrusted to serve even more; but if we hold back and do not put our heart into how we hear and respond, then we can lose what little we have.
23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 24 Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. 25 For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”
Not only do we need to be willing to hear and led by God, we must pay attention to how we listen - is it to put into practice as we take it to heart? Do we generously give back to Him and to others to the best of the ability given to us? If so, more will be entrusted to serve even more; but if we hold back and do not put our heart into how we hear and respond, then we can lose what little we have.
Friday, September 11, 2015
All Hidden will be Revealed
Mark 4:21-23
21 Also He said to them, “Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? 22 For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Jesus Christ is the light for all, and such He has entrusted to mere mortals to shine out to others; if we who have this treasure in clay vessels are afraid or uncertain what we hold on to, how can we hold it out to those in darkness? In the end, all will know the truth, so why not let them know before it cannot make a difference forever? This truth we must acknowledge and take heed to.
21 Also He said to them, “Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? 22 For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Jesus Christ is the light for all, and such He has entrusted to mere mortals to shine out to others; if we who have this treasure in clay vessels are afraid or uncertain what we hold on to, how can we hold it out to those in darkness? In the end, all will know the truth, so why not let them know before it cannot make a difference forever? This truth we must acknowledge and take heed to.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Sower Sows the Word
Mark 4:14-20
14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble. 18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”
God's word is like the rain from heaven that causes growth as Isaiah wrote, but it must take root first. The enemy waits to dissuade us from listening and taking to heart the gospel that is God's very word to us for a future and hope. We hear atheists scoff and others say there is some other way, and we close our ears. Others hear the word of God, yet don't really take it to heart, having only gotten excited about a new thing they heard. When they are pressed or circumstances make it difficult to believe, some just fall right away and say they "tried" Jesus. When life's pursuits of wealth or position mean more than eternity, some forget what God says and live for themselves. Ah, but the few who hear, accept, take to heart, and obey the word they heard are free and in hope bring pleasure to their maker and Lord. Their new life has meaning and purpose for all time, no matter the circumstance or what they want out of life.
14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble. 18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”
God's word is like the rain from heaven that causes growth as Isaiah wrote, but it must take root first. The enemy waits to dissuade us from listening and taking to heart the gospel that is God's very word to us for a future and hope. We hear atheists scoff and others say there is some other way, and we close our ears. Others hear the word of God, yet don't really take it to heart, having only gotten excited about a new thing they heard. When they are pressed or circumstances make it difficult to believe, some just fall right away and say they "tried" Jesus. When life's pursuits of wealth or position mean more than eternity, some forget what God says and live for themselves. Ah, but the few who hear, accept, take to heart, and obey the word they heard are free and in hope bring pleasure to their maker and Lord. Their new life has meaning and purpose for all time, no matter the circumstance or what they want out of life.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Outside Parables, Inside Understanding
Mark 4:1-2, 11-12
1 And again He began to teach by the sea. And a great multitude was gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole multitude was on the land facing the sea. 2 Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching: ... 11 And He said to them, “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 12 so that ‘Seeing they may see and not perceive, and hearing they may hear and not understand; lest they should turn, and their sins be forgiven them.’ ”
Jesus purposefully spoke in veiled stories so that only those He drew to Himself and who then sought the meaning of what He said with the desire to take to heart and do those things - that they would understand. But the ones religiously righteous apart from God were blind and deaf to the truth plainly taught in this way. If people hear and look to see Christ and Him alone as the way to God, then they will turn from sin and find forgiveness. This "narrow minded" truth is what give sight and sound to His words - and life forever with Him.
1 And again He began to teach by the sea. And a great multitude was gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole multitude was on the land facing the sea. 2 Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching: ... 11 And He said to them, “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 12 so that ‘Seeing they may see and not perceive, and hearing they may hear and not understand; lest they should turn, and their sins be forgiven them.’ ”
Jesus purposefully spoke in veiled stories so that only those He drew to Himself and who then sought the meaning of what He said with the desire to take to heart and do those things - that they would understand. But the ones religiously righteous apart from God were blind and deaf to the truth plainly taught in this way. If people hear and look to see Christ and Him alone as the way to God, then they will turn from sin and find forgiveness. This "narrow minded" truth is what give sight and sound to His words - and life forever with Him.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Adopted to Believe
Mark 3:32-35
32 And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers [and Your sisters] are outside seeking You.” 33 But He answered them, saying, “Who is My mother, or My brothers?” 34 And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 35 For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”
We who are adopted by God our Father through His Son Jesus Christ are brothers and sisters of Him. We are now of God's family and seek Him as we do His will - that is, we believe the testimony of forgiveness and grace in Christ and follow in obedience out of love because of that. We do not do this to gain His favor, but in thankful response out of love.
John 6:29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.”
32 And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers [and Your sisters] are outside seeking You.” 33 But He answered them, saying, “Who is My mother, or My brothers?” 34 And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 35 For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”
We who are adopted by God our Father through His Son Jesus Christ are brothers and sisters of Him. We are now of God's family and seek Him as we do His will - that is, we believe the testimony of forgiveness and grace in Christ and follow in obedience out of love because of that. We do not do this to gain His favor, but in thankful response out of love.
John 6:29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.”
Monday, September 7, 2015
Unforgivable Sin: Spirit is Unclean
Mark 3:28-30
28 “Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29 but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation”— 30 because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.”
The never ending guilt of those continually calling God's work to be of satan (evil by God's hand) cannot and will not be forgiven. It is a willingness to malign God's character and work to keep people from Him; the current atheists hurl such accusations against God as they deny and slander one they claim they do not believe exists (so why blaspheme one they say is not there?). But God's Spirit is holy, not evil, and all His works are good. It is our acknowledgement of that holiness that matters.
28 “Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29 but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation”— 30 because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.”
The never ending guilt of those continually calling God's work to be of satan (evil by God's hand) cannot and will not be forgiven. It is a willingness to malign God's character and work to keep people from Him; the current atheists hurl such accusations against God as they deny and slander one they claim they do not believe exists (so why blaspheme one they say is not there?). But God's Spirit is holy, not evil, and all His works are good. It is our acknowledgement of that holiness that matters.
Saturday, September 5, 2015
House Divided Cannot Stand
Mark 3:22-27
22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebub,” and, “By the ruler of the demons He casts out demons.” 23 So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27 No one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house.
Jesus did miraculous things, including commanding demons to leave people; when accused of doing this for or as the devil, He made it clear that He came to throw satan out by God's power. He even used simple reasoning to show it would be stupid for satan to attack himself. So Jesus came, conquered in all authority, and reigns forever secure as Lord of all.
22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebub,” and, “By the ruler of the demons He casts out demons.” 23 So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27 No one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house.
Jesus did miraculous things, including commanding demons to leave people; when accused of doing this for or as the devil, He made it clear that He came to throw satan out by God's power. He even used simple reasoning to show it would be stupid for satan to attack himself. So Jesus came, conquered in all authority, and reigns forever secure as Lord of all.
Friday, September 4, 2015
Commission to Preach
Mark 3:13-15
13 And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. 14 Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, 15 and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons:
Jesus calls those He wants, and we cannot come unless He first calls (John 6:44). He appoints or commissions us then with His power and authority (Matthew 28:19-20) to bring wholeness to lost souls He is calling - it is a privilege to call out to those He is calling, for He could just continue doing so Himself as here with the apostles. But instead, we have the honor of holding forth and fast the good news of the reconciliatory forgiveness of God's mercy to us the undeserving. What a wonder!
13 And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. 14 Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, 15 and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons:
Jesus calls those He wants, and we cannot come unless He first calls (John 6:44). He appoints or commissions us then with His power and authority (Matthew 28:19-20) to bring wholeness to lost souls He is calling - it is a privilege to call out to those He is calling, for He could just continue doing so Himself as here with the apostles. But instead, we have the honor of holding forth and fast the good news of the reconciliatory forgiveness of God's mercy to us the undeserving. What a wonder!
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Pressing In To Jesus
Mark 3:10-11
10 For He healed many, so that as many as had afflictions pressed about Him to touch Him. 11 And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, fell down before Him and cried out, saying, “You are the Son of God.”
Both those who pressed to be close to Jesus to be made completely well in body and soul and those fallen angels who knew and feared Jesus knew He was the Son of the living God. The fallen ones knew exactly who He was, and the people were only beginning to understand. Do we now, with His word showing us plainly now, do we really grasp that He is God among us, His spoken word embodied in a man, yet fully God as well? If we do, then why do we not press to follow and know Him fully and fearfully out of love for all He has done for us?
10 For He healed many, so that as many as had afflictions pressed about Him to touch Him. 11 And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, fell down before Him and cried out, saying, “You are the Son of God.”
Both those who pressed to be close to Jesus to be made completely well in body and soul and those fallen angels who knew and feared Jesus knew He was the Son of the living God. The fallen ones knew exactly who He was, and the people were only beginning to understand. Do we now, with His word showing us plainly now, do we really grasp that He is God among us, His spoken word embodied in a man, yet fully God as well? If we do, then why do we not press to follow and know Him fully and fearfully out of love for all He has done for us?
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Those Hearing Come to Christ
Mark 3:6-8
6 Then the Pharisees went out and immediately plotted with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him. 7 But Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea. And a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judea 8 and Jerusalem and Idumea and beyond the Jordan; and those from Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him.
When Jesus was faced with religious leaders and government supporters stirred up against Him, He went to a quiet place by the seaside with the followers and many wanting more. They came from all over when they heard all He was doing, and I expect all He was saying as well. People come to hear when we tell plainly what He has said and done, not finding an angle or making the message sound appealing. It is the truth and simplicity of the good news of reconciliation by mercy through faith in Jesus Christ alone. He draws men to Himself. We are witnesses to Him.
6 Then the Pharisees went out and immediately plotted with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him. 7 But Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea. And a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judea 8 and Jerusalem and Idumea and beyond the Jordan; and those from Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him.
When Jesus was faced with religious leaders and government supporters stirred up against Him, He went to a quiet place by the seaside with the followers and many wanting more. They came from all over when they heard all He was doing, and I expect all He was saying as well. People come to hear when we tell plainly what He has said and done, not finding an angle or making the message sound appealing. It is the truth and simplicity of the good news of reconciliation by mercy through faith in Jesus Christ alone. He draws men to Himself. We are witnesses to Him.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Step Forward to Rest in Him
Mark 3:2-5
2 So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. 3 And He said to the man who had the withered hand, “Step forward.” 4 Then He said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they kept silent. 5 And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other.
Religious people wanted Jesus dead because He did good on a day they had twisted into a system which replaced God for them. Jesus even pointed out that the goal was to do good, that it was not evil to help on a day of rest. They made their rule more important than the purpose of it; God gave the day to help us, not to worship it. So He restored the crippled man even though angered those who missed the point.
2 So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. 3 And He said to the man who had the withered hand, “Step forward.” 4 Then He said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they kept silent. 5 And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other.
Religious people wanted Jesus dead because He did good on a day they had twisted into a system which replaced God for them. Jesus even pointed out that the goal was to do good, that it was not evil to help on a day of rest. They made their rule more important than the purpose of it; God gave the day to help us, not to worship it. So He restored the crippled man even though angered those who missed the point.
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