Mark 14:27
27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’
Zech. 13:9 I will bring the one-third through the fire, Will refine them as silver is refined, and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say, “This is My people’; and each one will say, ‘The Lord is my God.’ ”
Jesus told the disciples they would stumble because of knowing Him and run away, quoting from Zechariah. But Zechariah went further to also say the ones coming back to the Lord would be His people, knowing and acknowledging He is God. So we who are His stumble, yet are called out and confess He is our God in knowing our standing.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Consuming Christ to Remember
Mark 14:22-25
22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” 23 Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many. 25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
The last supper Jesus had with His followers was the Passover meal as meant to be, focused on Christ in partaking of Him. This was for a new covenant from God to man to remember Him and our union with Him until the new kingdom at the world's beginning to come at the end of what we now know. We will be with Him forever then, but look forward in remembering what will be now in this celebration. Then we will drink together of Him!
22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” 23 Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many. 25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
The last supper Jesus had with His followers was the Passover meal as meant to be, focused on Christ in partaking of Him. This was for a new covenant from God to man to remember Him and our union with Him until the new kingdom at the world's beginning to come at the end of what we now know. We will be with Him forever then, but look forward in remembering what will be now in this celebration. Then we will drink together of Him!
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Vessel of Destruction
Mark 14:21
The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.”
Judas is known for betraying Jesus for a handful of silver, and it was told ahead of time by God that it would happen. It really would have been better if he never was born, but the same can be said of any who deny the gospel and turn their back on Jesus Christ. For being so born to die and suffer forever is the price of rejection; so we must use every opportunity to bear witness to who Jesus is and what He has done. Who knows what new birth will make the old of value?
The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.”
Judas is known for betraying Jesus for a handful of silver, and it was told ahead of time by God that it would happen. It really would have been better if he never was born, but the same can be said of any who deny the gospel and turn their back on Jesus Christ. For being so born to die and suffer forever is the price of rejection; so we must use every opportunity to bear witness to who Jesus is and what He has done. Who knows what new birth will make the old of value?
Friday, November 27, 2015
Follow the Man
Mark 14:13-16
13 And He sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him. 14 Wherever he goes in, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ 15 Then he will show you a large upper room, furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.” 16 So His disciples went out, and came into the city, and found it just as He had said to them; and they prepared the Passover.
This is faith - trusting by doing what Jesus says to do. God prepares the way for us to walk in, no matter how we plan our steps. When we keep in step with Him, then we find it "just as He had said to us." God's work and way done in faith will always find His supply to meet the need and glorify Him. We must be led by His Spirit and follow in absolute trust to see this pleasing grace unfold before us.
13 And He sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him. 14 Wherever he goes in, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ 15 Then he will show you a large upper room, furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.” 16 So His disciples went out, and came into the city, and found it just as He had said to them; and they prepared the Passover.
This is faith - trusting by doing what Jesus says to do. God prepares the way for us to walk in, no matter how we plan our steps. When we keep in step with Him, then we find it "just as He had said to us." God's work and way done in faith will always find His supply to meet the need and glorify Him. We must be led by His Spirit and follow in absolute trust to see this pleasing grace unfold before us.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Memorial Honor
Mark 14:8-11
8 She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial. 9 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.” 10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So he sought how he might conveniently betray Him.
Contrast again the woman who gave so much to honor her Lord for His burial against the one who betrayed Him for money and waited for the chance to hand Jesus over for death and burial to be rid of Him. The heart set on God honors Him and finds great reward, but those set against Him face the judgment they already earned. What price is our eternal soul worth? What can we seek to gain now that we can spend beyond the grave? What we do with Jesus here has eternal consequences.
8 She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial. 9 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.” 10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So he sought how he might conveniently betray Him.
Contrast again the woman who gave so much to honor her Lord for His burial against the one who betrayed Him for money and waited for the chance to hand Jesus over for death and burial to be rid of Him. The heart set on God honors Him and finds great reward, but those set against Him face the judgment they already earned. What price is our eternal soul worth? What can we seek to gain now that we can spend beyond the grave? What we do with Jesus here has eternal consequences.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Anointed with Oil
Mark 14:1-3
1 After two days it was the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death. 2 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar of the people.” 3 And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on His head.
Those whose religion was challenged by God proving Himself with unmistakable signs and wonders did not want their system or their motives challenged, so they looked for ways to entrap and accuse Jesus Christ. They wanted Him dead, the murder of which the commandment they claimed to follow prohibited. Contrast this with the woman who gave such a valuable gift to honor Him. God seeks our sincere hearts bowed before Him. The price He paid of His life for ours overwhelms our cheap efforts and makes us debtors to grace and mercy.
1 After two days it was the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death. 2 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar of the people.” 3 And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on His head.
Those whose religion was challenged by God proving Himself with unmistakable signs and wonders did not want their system or their motives challenged, so they looked for ways to entrap and accuse Jesus Christ. They wanted Him dead, the murder of which the commandment they claimed to follow prohibited. Contrast this with the woman who gave such a valuable gift to honor Him. God seeks our sincere hearts bowed before Him. The price He paid of His life for ours overwhelms our cheap efforts and makes us debtors to grace and mercy.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Watch! Be Ready!
Mark 13:31-37
31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. 32 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is... 35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”
What Jesus told us is what will happen, for He is God as well as man. So we need to be ready when He comes back - we cannot know when that is, so eternal vigilance must direct us to trust His words and rest in Jesus' finished work on the cross as we live for Him and are about His work of the gospel. Will we have perishable hay or lasting precious jewels to offer from our lives when we meet?
31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. 32 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is... 35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”
What Jesus told us is what will happen, for He is God as well as man. So we need to be ready when He comes back - we cannot know when that is, so eternal vigilance must direct us to trust His words and rest in Jesus' finished work on the cross as we live for Him and are about His work of the gospel. Will we have perishable hay or lasting precious jewels to offer from our lives when we meet?
Monday, November 23, 2015
His Words Will Not Pass Away
Mark 13:28-31
28 “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. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near—at the doors! 30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
As Jesus told of the end to come before the new beginning of His kingdom, He likened it to signs of a tree with leaves that told of spring turning to summer. This was an analogy to the pressing times of tribulation showing the season of the coming judgment and gathering of the called out ones. Though the generation to see tribulation was the Jews at the Roman destruction of Jerusalem, in context it is also for the end of this world's generation when He comes back. Just as in the Prophets, so here there is the immediate and future meaning to consider.
28 “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. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near—at the doors! 30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
As Jesus told of the end to come before the new beginning of His kingdom, He likened it to signs of a tree with leaves that told of spring turning to summer. This was an analogy to the pressing times of tribulation showing the season of the coming judgment and gathering of the called out ones. Though the generation to see tribulation was the Jews at the Roman destruction of Jerusalem, in context it is also for the end of this world's generation when He comes back. Just as in the Prophets, so here there is the immediate and future meaning to consider.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Gathering the Elect
Mark 13:24-27
24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; 25 the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.
No matter how much tribulation we will endure before Christ returns, no matter how horrifying it will be to see the sun go dim and the stars fall, no matter how the heavens are shaken - we have been given a kingdom that cannot be shaken. He will gather His called out ones, the church, as judgment comes and redemptive freedom forever in His presence is seen at last. We yearn for that day, yet sorrow for those who will not be gathered in the Son...
24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; 25 the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.
No matter how much tribulation we will endure before Christ returns, no matter how horrifying it will be to see the sun go dim and the stars fall, no matter how the heavens are shaken - we have been given a kingdom that cannot be shaken. He will gather His called out ones, the church, as judgment comes and redemptive freedom forever in His presence is seen at last. We yearn for that day, yet sorrow for those who will not be gathered in the Son...
Saturday, November 21, 2015
False Second Comings
Mark 13:19-23
19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days. 21 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘Look, He is there!’ do not believe it. 22 For false Christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 23 But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.
There was the destruction of Jerusalem and scattering with suffering of God's people long ago, but the suffering to come near the end will be intensified until judgment with Christ's return. We who are called out will also suffer, but God will shorten the time of our suffering to bear it. We must hold to Him as events turn against us, trusting not in false hopes but he living God to come. He warned us enough in advance that we can hold fast to Christ in us, the hope of glory, with calm trust and assurance. He has overcome the world and is in absolute control forever.
19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days. 21 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘Look, He is there!’ do not believe it. 22 For false Christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 23 But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.
There was the destruction of Jerusalem and scattering with suffering of God's people long ago, but the suffering to come near the end will be intensified until judgment with Christ's return. We who are called out will also suffer, but God will shorten the time of our suffering to bear it. We must hold to Him as events turn against us, trusting not in false hopes but he living God to come. He warned us enough in advance that we can hold fast to Christ in us, the hope of glory, with calm trust and assurance. He has overcome the world and is in absolute control forever.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Betrayed and Hated: Endure!
Mark 13:12-13
12 Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 13 And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.
Following Christ not only brings tribulation and suffering from the world, but can also come from family. Jesus told us the kingdom of God in His name would be like a sword dividing family members, and we see this already in Muslim and Hindu cultures where harassment and death are doled out when family members become Christians. We endure for the one who suffered and died for us on the cross, for He rose from death as we shall with Him also. This is our certain hope.
12 Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 13 And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.
Following Christ not only brings tribulation and suffering from the world, but can also come from family. Jesus told us the kingdom of God in His name would be like a sword dividing family members, and we see this already in Muslim and Hindu cultures where harassment and death are doled out when family members become Christians. We endure for the one who suffered and died for us on the cross, for He rose from death as we shall with Him also. This is our certain hope.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Words Given as Defense
Mark 13:9-11
9 “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. 10 And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11 But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.
As Christ's return waits for His time, we are to be filled with the gospel in following Jesus. This will mean more and more persecution for His name and message, but we are still to speak truth in love. He will give us words to say as needed; our part is complete availability and willingness to follow and be ready to give the reason of this hope in us. "The Great Commission is a purpose big enough to capture your entire life." - Leroy Eims
9 “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. 10 And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11 But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.
As Christ's return waits for His time, we are to be filled with the gospel in following Jesus. This will mean more and more persecution for His name and message, but we are still to speak truth in love. He will give us words to say as needed; our part is complete availability and willingness to follow and be ready to give the reason of this hope in us. "The Great Commission is a purpose big enough to capture your entire life." - Leroy Eims
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Deceit and Sorrows Beginning
Mark 13:5-8
5 And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 6 For many will come in My name, saying, “I am He,’ and will deceive many. 7 But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.
So many claim to be the savior of the world, whether small cult leaders or so called prophets of God. But Jesus is the only way, truth, and life. He does not deceive or lead down paths of false hope; He alone is God and His Word, and He alone paid the price for us to reconcile us to God. No mere man can do these things, and no other is based on what God has said from the beginning. As times get worse, only He can be counted on for peace in our souls now and into forever.
5 And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you. 6 For many will come in My name, saying, “I am He,’ and will deceive many. 7 But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.
So many claim to be the savior of the world, whether small cult leaders or so called prophets of God. But Jesus is the only way, truth, and life. He does not deceive or lead down paths of false hope; He alone is God and His Word, and He alone paid the price for us to reconcile us to God. No mere man can do these things, and no other is based on what God has said from the beginning. As times get worse, only He can be counted on for peace in our souls now and into forever.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
When Will These Things Be?
Mark 13:1-4
1 Then as He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!” 2 And Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” 3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?”
The buildings and works of man all have this in common: they will either fall down with age motor be torn down by others. We wonder at when the heavens will fall with the mountains at the end of this age, how and when - but God has this firmly in hand and reveals it by telling it will be so. We must follow and not lead Him.
1 Then as He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!” 2 And Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” 3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?”
The buildings and works of man all have this in common: they will either fall down with age motor be torn down by others. We wonder at when the heavens will fall with the mountains at the end of this age, how and when - but God has this firmly in hand and reveals it by telling it will be so. We must follow and not lead Him.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Give All We Have
Mark 12:41-44.
41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”
If we have much, we give much - at least the amount seems like a large sum... But if we give all we have, then our heart is in it beyond mere obligation. This woman gave a small sum, yet it was everything she had. Do we give our all to the Lord and the Gospel to make disciples and please our Savior who bought us at such a high price?
41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”
If we have much, we give much - at least the amount seems like a large sum... But if we give all we have, then our heart is in it beyond mere obligation. This woman gave a small sum, yet it was everything she had. Do we give our all to the Lord and the Gospel to make disciples and please our Savior who bought us at such a high price?
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Beware the Pride of Life
Mark 12:38-40
38 Then He said to them in His teaching, “Beware of the scribes, who desire to go around in long robes, love greetings in the marketplaces, 39 the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts, 40 who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”
When we as Christians begin to put on airs of self importance, we miss the attitude of Paul who admitted he was the chief of sinners and could do nothing except for Christ in him by grace and enabling power. Those who expect respect with demands and retaliate against those who disagree need this humility - so we must not only watch for errant leaders and teachers, but seek humility in ourselves under His mighty hand to be lifted up in His due time for eternity.
38 Then He said to them in His teaching, “Beware of the scribes, who desire to go around in long robes, love greetings in the marketplaces, 39 the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts, 40 who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”
When we as Christians begin to put on airs of self importance, we miss the attitude of Paul who admitted he was the chief of sinners and could do nothing except for Christ in him by grace and enabling power. Those who expect respect with demands and retaliate against those who disagree need this humility - so we must not only watch for errant leaders and teachers, but seek humility in ourselves under His mighty hand to be lifted up in His due time for eternity.
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Son of David, or Lord?
Mark 12:35-37
35 Then Jesus answered and said, while He taught in the temple, “How is it that the scribes say that the Christ is the Son of David? 36 For David himself said by the Holy Spirit: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’ 37 Therefore David himself calls Him “Lord’; how is He then his Son?” And the common people heard Him gladly.
Jesus is Lord of all men, even the great ones chosen by Him like King David. So the common man heard Jesus say this, bringing down the pretentious and proud of their positions in life. We are servants, not rulers over men's souls in Christ. The lowly in heart are so in deed, while those worshipping themselves do not truly rule; only Christ does.
35 Then Jesus answered and said, while He taught in the temple, “How is it that the scribes say that the Christ is the Son of David? 36 For David himself said by the Holy Spirit: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’ 37 Therefore David himself calls Him “Lord’; how is He then his Son?” And the common people heard Him gladly.
Jesus is Lord of all men, even the great ones chosen by Him like King David. So the common man heard Jesus say this, bringing down the pretentious and proud of their positions in life. We are servants, not rulers over men's souls in Christ. The lowly in heart are so in deed, while those worshipping themselves do not truly rule; only Christ does.
Friday, November 13, 2015
Wise Answer: Love God and Man
Mark 12:32-34
32 So the scribe said to Him, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. 33 And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” 34 Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” But after that no one dared question Him.
Really understanding God's heart means we draw nearer the kingdom with all our heart for what is on His. We love Him completely, "all in," and others just a little less than that. This is the sacrifice of praise and service that is wisdom and life. What else will it be like in God's presence forever with our brothers and sisters in Christ? We must begin here, for the kingdom of God is within us...
32 So the scribe said to Him, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. 33 And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” 34 Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” But after that no one dared question Him.
Really understanding God's heart means we draw nearer the kingdom with all our heart for what is on His. We love Him completely, "all in," and others just a little less than that. This is the sacrifice of praise and service that is wisdom and life. What else will it be like in God's presence forever with our brothers and sisters in Christ? We must begin here, for the kingdom of God is within us...
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Greatest Commandments
Mark 12:29-31
29 Jesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
Leviticus 19:18 You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.
What does it mean to love our neighbor as we love ourself? We understand but struggle in loving God with all we have, but do we see how the second command is also vital to pleasing Him? In Leviticus we see love for others means forgiveness and grace in place of getting back or harboring bad feelings for others. Grace and mercy bring peace with God and man. He is the Lord.
29 Jesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
Leviticus 19:18 You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.
What does it mean to love our neighbor as we love ourself? We understand but struggle in loving God with all we have, but do we see how the second command is also vital to pleasing Him? In Leviticus we see love for others means forgiveness and grace in place of getting back or harboring bad feelings for others. Grace and mercy bring peace with God and man. He is the Lord.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
God of Living, Not the Dead
Mark 12:24-27
24 Jesus answered and said to them, “Are you not therefore mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. 26 But concerning the dead, that they rise, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the burning bush passage, how God spoke to him, saying, “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ ? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. You are therefore greatly mistaken.”
We may say that we will join our loved ones in heaven, but Scripture reminds us that they not only must be His, but that we also will not be as man and wife there; like angels, we will live forever with no need to procreate, and God Himself will be our spouse - we are the bride of Christ. We will rise again, live forever with Him, and the eternity we share with each other will be filled with joy together in His presence.
24 Jesus answered and said to them, “Are you not therefore mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. 26 But concerning the dead, that they rise, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the burning bush passage, how God spoke to him, saying, “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ ? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. You are therefore greatly mistaken.”
We may say that we will join our loved ones in heaven, but Scripture reminds us that they not only must be His, but that we also will not be as man and wife there; like angels, we will live forever with no need to procreate, and God Himself will be our spouse - we are the bride of Christ. We will rise again, live forever with Him, and the eternity we share with each other will be filled with joy together in His presence.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Taxes and Tribute
Mark 12:14-17.
14 When they had come, they said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are true, and care about no one; for You do not regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we pay, or shall we not pay?” But He, knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, “Why do you test Me? Bring Me a denarius that I may see it.” 16 So they brought it. And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar's.” 17 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they marveled at Him.
Though we may complain about taxes, the money minted which we pay with actually belongs to the country we live in. Beyond that there is the more important issue of emphasizing what we give of our lives and attention to serving God and trusting Him for our daily sustenance. What is God's - us and all we have - must be given to Him. He will take care of the rest.
14 When they had come, they said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are true, and care about no one; for You do not regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we pay, or shall we not pay?” But He, knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, “Why do you test Me? Bring Me a denarius that I may see it.” 16 So they brought it. And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar's.” 17 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they marveled at Him.
Though we may complain about taxes, the money minted which we pay with actually belongs to the country we live in. Beyond that there is the more important issue of emphasizing what we give of our lives and attention to serving God and trusting Him for our daily sustenance. What is God's - us and all we have - must be given to Him. He will take care of the rest.
Monday, November 9, 2015
The Chief Cornerstone
Mark 12:7-11
7 But those vinedressers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 So they took him and killed him and cast him out of the vineyard. 9 “Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the vinedressers, and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not even read this Scripture: “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? ”
The example here seems to be that we cannot allow our religion to keep us from (or even reject) God's work in His Son for the sake of gain. Jesus Christ is the cornerstone on which God builds His temple, and we are the stones that build and rely on Him as both foundation and key. This is the Lord's marvelous doing. We are His workmanship. So we must continually look to Him in the word for all we do - this is great gain for eternity.
7 But those vinedressers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 So they took him and killed him and cast him out of the vineyard. 9 “Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the vinedressers, and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not even read this Scripture: “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? ”
The example here seems to be that we cannot allow our religion to keep us from (or even reject) God's work in His Son for the sake of gain. Jesus Christ is the cornerstone on which God builds His temple, and we are the stones that build and rely on Him as both foundation and key. This is the Lord's marvelous doing. We are His workmanship. So we must continually look to Him in the word for all we do - this is great gain for eternity.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Fear of Men or God?
Mark 11:29-33.
29 But Jesus answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one question; then answer Me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things: 30 The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me.” 31 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 32 But if we say, “From men’ ”—they feared the people, for all counted John to have been a prophet indeed. 33 So they answered and said to Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus answered and said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
When we worry more about what others think about us than openly speaking about God and who Christ is to us, we also cower in fear of men rather than God. Jesus was God among us, doing what man could not, and even then the fear of religious acceptance led to denial. His authority is absolute and divine, and so we can only testify openly to that good news.
29 But Jesus answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one question; then answer Me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things: 30 The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me.” 31 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 32 But if we say, “From men’ ”—they feared the people, for all counted John to have been a prophet indeed. 33 So they answered and said to Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus answered and said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
When we worry more about what others think about us than openly speaking about God and who Christ is to us, we also cower in fear of men rather than God. Jesus was God among us, doing what man could not, and even then the fear of religious acceptance led to denial. His authority is absolute and divine, and so we can only testify openly to that good news.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Forgive, Then Pray
Mark 11:25-26.
25 “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”
We should by faith expect prayer to be answered as it aligns with God's will, but if we are not also striving to be right with others, we should stop and get that right. We are not forgiven if we do not forgive, and that should motivate us to be right with man to be right with God when we pray. This also means when others have something against us and we need their forgiveness, as we are told in other verses.
25 “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”
We should by faith expect prayer to be answered as it aligns with God's will, but if we are not also striving to be right with others, we should stop and get that right. We are not forgiven if we do not forgive, and that should motivate us to be right with man to be right with God when we pray. This also means when others have something against us and we need their forgiveness, as we are told in other verses.
Friday, November 6, 2015
Trust in God and His Will
Mark 11:22-24
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
Trust in God alone will provide us with what to ask for from Him, for then it will be as He wills and not just what we want. This is the faith that can move mountains. The things of God's will in Christ can and must unwaveringly be asked for with expectation of answer - but we must never ask amiss for ourselves and our own pleasure or will.
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
Trust in God alone will provide us with what to ask for from Him, for then it will be as He wills and not just what we want. This is the faith that can move mountains. The things of God's will in Christ can and must unwaveringly be asked for with expectation of answer - but we must never ask amiss for ourselves and our own pleasure or will.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
House Dedicated to Worship
Mark 11:15-18.
15 So they came to Jerusalem. Then Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. 16 And He would not allow anyone to carry wares through the temple. 17 Then He taught, saying to them, “Is it not written, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations’? But you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” 18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it and sought how they might destroy Him; for they feared Him, because all the people were astonished at His teaching.
God is to be worshipped and no other - and that worship should not be substituted with business. Jesus made it clear that the worship was to be a place for all to come and pray, to seek and worship God. This teaching even today causes anger and astonishment when our favorite activities in church clash with God's holiness and purpose for us as His church. But we need only fear Him if we do not listen.
15 So they came to Jerusalem. Then Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. 16 And He would not allow anyone to carry wares through the temple. 17 Then He taught, saying to them, “Is it not written, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations’? But you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” 18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it and sought how they might destroy Him; for they feared Him, because all the people were astonished at His teaching.
God is to be worshipped and no other - and that worship should not be substituted with business. Jesus made it clear that the worship was to be a place for all to come and pray, to seek and worship God. This teaching even today causes anger and astonishment when our favorite activities in church clash with God's holiness and purpose for us as His church. But we need only fear Him if we do not listen.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Unfruitful Fig Tree Withered
Mark 11:12-14.
12 Now the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, He was hungry. 13 And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 In response Jesus said to it, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” And His disciples heard it.
Later they walked by this tree and found it withered and still without fruit, dried up even to the roots. Jesus talked of faith in God for prayer to be answered by this tree example, but I wonder if it had more to do with unfruitfulness and the consequences. Food for thought.
12 Now the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, He was hungry. 13 And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 In response Jesus said to it, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” And His disciples heard it.
Later they walked by this tree and found it withered and still without fruit, dried up even to the roots. Jesus talked of faith in God for prayer to be answered by this tree example, but I wonder if it had more to do with unfruitfulness and the consequences. Food for thought.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Hosanna and Save us, Lord!
Mark 11:9-10
9 Then those who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ 10 Blessed is the kingdom of our father David That comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Ps.118:25-26
25 Save now, I pray, O Lord; O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We have blessed you from the house of the Lord.
"Save us, Lord" is what the people cried to Jesus, save to the Highest. It was more than one coming in God's name;'this was God come in person bringing blessings by His imminent sacrifice of death. This cry for forgiveness of sin and reconciling with our Maker echoes down from the fall in Eden until now, and on until He makes all things new. This is the good news we bear witness to.
9 Then those who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ 10 Blessed is the kingdom of our father David That comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Ps.118:25-26
25 Save now, I pray, O Lord; O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We have blessed you from the house of the Lord.
"Save us, Lord" is what the people cried to Jesus, save to the Highest. It was more than one coming in God's name;'this was God come in person bringing blessings by His imminent sacrifice of death. This cry for forgiveness of sin and reconciling with our Maker echoes down from the fall in Eden until now, and on until He makes all things new. This is the good news we bear witness to.
Monday, November 2, 2015
Let Me See by Faith
Mark 10:49-52.
49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. Then they called the blind man, saying to him, “Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.” 50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. 51 So Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.” 52 Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.
We cry out to Jesus, but wait for Him to call us to Himself - this should make us exceedingly glad. Even now, do we cast everything aside at His voice and come to Him? When He makes us well and tells us to go our way, is it also as here where our way is His way as we follow wherever He goes? By faith we hearken His call, and by faith we must follow His narrow way.
49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called. Then they called the blind man, saying to him, “Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.” 50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. 51 So Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.” 52 Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.
We cry out to Jesus, but wait for Him to call us to Himself - this should make us exceedingly glad. Even now, do we cast everything aside at His voice and come to Him? When He makes us well and tells us to go our way, is it also as here where our way is His way as we follow wherever He goes? By faith we hearken His call, and by faith we must follow His narrow way.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Servant Position and Greatness
Mark 10:40-45.
40 to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared.” ...42 But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. 44 And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
God prepares us for Himself, whether election to adoption or our roles and positions here and in eternity. God must be glorified as He is sovereign Lord and King. So also the author of our salvation sees greatness as our serving Him in serving others, not seeking to be in charge or gain recognition. He served us as an example for us to imitate as we follow. A disciple, a follower of Christ, walks with Him so.
40 to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared.” ...42 But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. 44 And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
God prepares us for Himself, whether election to adoption or our roles and positions here and in eternity. God must be glorified as He is sovereign Lord and King. So also the author of our salvation sees greatness as our serving Him in serving others, not seeking to be in charge or gain recognition. He served us as an example for us to imitate as we follow. A disciple, a follower of Christ, walks with Him so.
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