Luke 24:48-52
48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” 50 And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,
Those who were there to see Jesus fulfill all God said from the beginning of time were witnesses with the task of proclaiming repentance and taking away of sin through Christ. But they had to wait first until they were given power to enable the authority entrusted. So with joy they waited and worshipped. Since the day their wait ended and God as Spirit lived in them, they witnessed with power and authority; we now coming to Him have both at regeneration, having His Spirit immediately and forever present in us. So we are witnesses also.
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Understanding Repentance and Forgiveness
Luke 24:44-47
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. 46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
What Jesus spoke before death is in the Gospels - and so much more from the Old Testament; the entire Bible is God's word that Jesus fulfilled, but we need understanding from Him to see who He is and how He planned already to suffer, die, and rise again 3 days later. He since then tells us to tell others in every country and race and language to repent and be completely forgiven in Christ alone. The good news began in Genesis and ends in Him.
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. 46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
What Jesus spoke before death is in the Gospels - and so much more from the Old Testament; the entire Bible is God's word that Jesus fulfilled, but we need understanding from Him to see who He is and how He planned already to suffer, die, and rise again 3 days later. He since then tells us to tell others in every country and race and language to repent and be completely forgiven in Christ alone. The good news began in Genesis and ends in Him.
Friday, July 29, 2016
Why Are You Troubled?
Luke 24:37-41
37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” 40 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. 41 But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?”
When Jesus came back from the dead and stood before His followers, they thought they saw a ghost. But Jesus allayed their fears and presented hands and feet to see and touch if need be to prove He was really there. Even in their joy of seeing they could not believe the one standing in front of their eyes. So it is with us when He reveals Himself to us and we have joy but don't know what to believe until His Spirit opens the eyes of our hearts...
37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” 40 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. 41 But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?”
When Jesus came back from the dead and stood before His followers, they thought they saw a ghost. But Jesus allayed their fears and presented hands and feet to see and touch if need be to prove He was really there. Even in their joy of seeing they could not believe the one standing in front of their eyes. So it is with us when He reveals Himself to us and we have joy but don't know what to believe until His Spirit opens the eyes of our hearts...
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Burning Heart Within Us
Luke 24:31-35
31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” 33 So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.
Hearing God's word either convicts us to further rebellion against the truth and anger to God, or as He calls us we are so moved by His words that we anxiously hang on each one as our hearts and souls are consumed as on fire. After Jesus arose and opened the understanding of these two then disappeared, they longed for more. Do we who know Him still feel the burn in our heart as we read or hear from our Lord?
31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” 33 So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.
Hearing God's word either convicts us to further rebellion against the truth and anger to God, or as He calls us we are so moved by His words that we anxiously hang on each one as our hearts and souls are consumed as on fire. After Jesus arose and opened the understanding of these two then disappeared, they longed for more. Do we who know Him still feel the burn in our heart as we read or hear from our Lord?
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Scriptures All Show Christ
Luke 24:25-27
25 Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” 27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.
Two men walking along the road tried to make sense of Jesus' life, death, and seeming resurrection, but could not quite see it. So Jesus told them they were already told in the Old Testament that had to so suffer and die to glorify God. He explained it all from Moses and the Prophets, the Scriptures, how the Christ was to com and do all these as God planned. So we need to search the Scriptures daily to see the things that are so, and to know more of God's sovereignty and purpose for us.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
He is Risen!
Luke 24:5-9
5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.
When the women came to Jesus' tomb, they found it empty - the Angels waiting there told them plainly He was alive, not dead, and that was what He had been telling them. He was handed over to sinful men who killed Him on a cross, but then He came back to life (because Jesus as God has power over life and death and all things). So the awestruck women remembered, and went immediately to tell the others. Because He lives we do also, and must tell others!
5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.
When the women came to Jesus' tomb, they found it empty - the Angels waiting there told them plainly He was alive, not dead, and that was what He had been telling them. He was handed over to sinful men who killed Him on a cross, but then He came back to life (because Jesus as God has power over life and death and all things). So the awestruck women remembered, and went immediately to tell the others. Because He lives we do also, and must tell others!
Monday, July 25, 2016
Good and Just Man
Luke 23:50-52
50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man. 51 He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Not all wanted Jesus dead; this good and just man did not go along with the decision to kill Jesus. He did not think it blasphemy that Jesus said He was God's Son. So he acted on that and asked for Jesus' body to bury it at great expense. He did what was right in open disagreement with injustice. So should we do right, standing for Him and others.
50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man. 51 He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Not all wanted Jesus dead; this good and just man did not go along with the decision to kill Jesus. He did not think it blasphemy that Jesus said He was God's Son. So he acted on that and asked for Jesus' body to bury it at great expense. He did what was right in open disagreement with injustice. So should we do right, standing for Him and others.
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Watching at a Distance
Luke 23:48-49
48 And the whole crowd who came together to that sight, seeing what had been done, beat their breasts and returned. 49 But all His acquaintances, and the women who followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Most of those who saw Jesus die on that cross then were sorrowful, maybe even to repentance. Bit those who knew Him kept back, as if not wanting to be associated with Jesus, or not wanting to face that He was now dead and seemingly unable to help them any longer. Neither group really understood the words He spoke before this, that death would be followed by resurrection; it was hidden until revealed before their very eyes. So it is with us - unless God leads us with a call to open our eyes, we miss what has been in front of us all along. This is the faith of grace.
48 And the whole crowd who came together to that sight, seeing what had been done, beat their breasts and returned. 49 But all His acquaintances, and the women who followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Most of those who saw Jesus die on that cross then were sorrowful, maybe even to repentance. Bit those who knew Him kept back, as if not wanting to be associated with Jesus, or not wanting to face that He was now dead and seemingly unable to help them any longer. Neither group really understood the words He spoke before this, that death would be followed by resurrection; it was hidden until revealed before their very eyes. So it is with us - unless God leads us with a call to open our eyes, we miss what has been in front of us all along. This is the faith of grace.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Into Your Hands, Father
Luke 23:45-47
45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last. 47 So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”
Jesus tore the veil hiding God in the most holy place of the temple; His last breath testified that He was entirely righteous, God among (Emmanuel). Even a Roman could see the truth in front of Him when the way to union and communion with God was opened by the sacrifice once for all on that tree, the cross. We must in turn commit our spirit to Him, dying to ourselves and forever alive in Christ in sweet communion...
45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last. 47 So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”
Jesus tore the veil hiding God in the most holy place of the temple; His last breath testified that He was entirely righteous, God among (Emmanuel). Even a Roman could see the truth in front of Him when the way to union and communion with God was opened by the sacrifice once for all on that tree, the cross. We must in turn commit our spirit to Him, dying to ourselves and forever alive in Christ in sweet communion...
Friday, July 22, 2016
With Jesus in Paradise
Luke 23:42-43
42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
The one criminal condemned to die realized he deserved what was coming, yet when he saw Jesus keeping silent to die innocently, he realized He was Lord and asked to be remembered at His kingdom's coming. Jesus went further to promise that the man would go from death to eternal life without deserving it. Jesus freely commuted the sentence and granted so much more. We also cannot earn a place in heaven by doing good - only a free gift paid at His price can do that.
42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
The one criminal condemned to die realized he deserved what was coming, yet when he saw Jesus keeping silent to die innocently, he realized He was Lord and asked to be remembered at His kingdom's coming. Jesus went further to promise that the man would go from death to eternal life without deserving it. Jesus freely commuted the sentence and granted so much more. We also cannot earn a place in heaven by doing good - only a free gift paid at His price can do that.
Thursday, July 21, 2016
We Receive Justice
Luke 23:37, 39-41
37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”
Save yourself and us - so the taunt went to stop Jesus from dying for us, and to keep us from deliverance from death and hell. But as the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus willingly hung there in innocence in our place. We are condemned men, justly deserving punishment, not Him. That He died for us is grace and mercy. If we fear God, we accept this and turn to Him for life as we die to ourselves.
37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”
Save yourself and us - so the taunt went to stop Jesus from dying for us, and to keep us from deliverance from death and hell. But as the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus willingly hung there in innocence in our place. We are condemned men, justly deserving punishment, not Him. That He died for us is grace and mercy. If we fear God, we accept this and turn to Him for life as we die to ourselves.
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Father Forgive Them
Luke 23:32-34
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.
They gambled for Jesus' clothes as Psalm 22:18 said would happen, after leading Him to the place of death (the skull). Even after nailing Him to the cross Jesus asked forgiveness for them, interceding with mercy and grace. So He offers that grace to us now.
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.
They gambled for Jesus' clothes as Psalm 22:18 said would happen, after leading Him to the place of death (the skull). Even after nailing Him to the cross Jesus asked forgiveness for them, interceding with mercy and grace. So He offers that grace to us now.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Weep for the Lost
Luke 23:28-31
28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
As Jesus faced punishment after judgement, even though He was innocent and was judged in our place - even then He warned about those who deserved it of the time that was coming. The end will be hopeless for many, as they still run from God's justice and even try to hide; how much better to face Him now and admit our sinfulness, turn from it to Christ, and be completely reconciled? Weep then only for the children who will not run to Him.
28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
As Jesus faced punishment after judgement, even though He was innocent and was judged in our place - even then He warned about those who deserved it of the time that was coming. The end will be hopeless for many, as they still run from God's justice and even try to hide; how much better to face Him now and admit our sinfulness, turn from it to Christ, and be completely reconciled? Weep then only for the children who will not run to Him.
Monday, July 18, 2016
Bearing His Cross
Luke 23:26
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
Simon was made to bear the cross of Jesus on the long walk to Jesus' death on it. We are similarly called to take up our cross every day - to take on dying to self to find new life at the end finally. He died for us, we die to live for Him, and the hope (not wish) of a certain life beginning now and into forever makes it bearable each day.
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
Simon was made to bear the cross of Jesus on the long walk to Jesus' death on it. We are similarly called to take up our cross every day - to take on dying to self to find new life at the end finally. He died for us, we die to live for Him, and the hope (not wish) of a certain life beginning now and into forever makes it bearable each day.
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Crucify Him
Luke 23:21-25
21 But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” 22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.” 23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested. 25 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.
Jesus was delivered to the will of a mob led by religious leaders who were exposed before man and God. They said it was blasphemy to be the Son of God, the Messiah. They did not want to lose control with their added requirements and unkept core laws of God. So they yelled loud enough until they had their way. So Jesus allowed himself to be crucified - yet He rose Himself back to life afterwards. God's will prevailed as it must over theirs.
21 But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” 22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.” 23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested. 25 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.
Jesus was delivered to the will of a mob led by religious leaders who were exposed before man and God. They said it was blasphemy to be the Son of God, the Messiah. They did not want to lose control with their added requirements and unkept core laws of God. So they yelled loud enough until they had their way. So Jesus allowed himself to be crucified - yet He rose Himself back to life afterwards. God's will prevailed as it must over theirs.
Saturday, July 16, 2016
No Fault Found in Christ
Luke 23:14-16
14 [Pilate] said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him”
Jesus and we His followers are often accused of misleading people, yet even Pilate saw the lack of evidence of this. He did nothing to earn death. We did however, by our rebellious and sinful hearts. He was to be released but was put to death for our rebellion. We have been set free and given life in place of death. Jesus does not mislead, but guides us into all truth, life, and freedom from our just due.
14 [Pilate] said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him”
Jesus and we His followers are often accused of misleading people, yet even Pilate saw the lack of evidence of this. He did nothing to earn death. We did however, by our rebellious and sinful hearts. He was to be released but was put to death for our rebellion. We have been set free and given life in place of death. Jesus does not mislead, but guides us into all truth, life, and freedom from our just due.
Friday, July 15, 2016
He Will Not Cry Out
Luke 23:8-11
8 Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. 9 Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. 11 Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod was only glad to see Jesus when he thought he would see a show of a miracle; but instead the questions were unanswered, so he turned from gladness to contempt and mocking. This attitude is still around - if Jesus does not work a miracle when called on, then they say He does not exist, does not love them, or is not their savior. They look for what they can get from God instead of God Himself. So we who know Him must also beware of these selfish ideas and bad teaching that encourages them. (Isa. 42:2)
8 Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. 9 Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. 11 Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod was only glad to see Jesus when he thought he would see a show of a miracle; but instead the questions were unanswered, so he turned from gladness to contempt and mocking. This attitude is still around - if Jesus does not work a miracle when called on, then they say He does not exist, does not love them, or is not their savior. They look for what they can get from God instead of God Himself. So we who know Him must also beware of these selfish ideas and bad teaching that encourages them. (Isa. 42:2)
Thursday, July 14, 2016
No Fault Found in the King
Luke 23:2-5
2 And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.” 3 Then Pilate asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered him and said, “It is as you say.” 4 So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, “I find no fault in this Man.” 5 But they were the more fierce, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to this place.”
Jesus was accused of being both Messiah and King, and even Pilate did not see that as a problem. But the religious leaders were threatened by the truth and pushed harder by saying His peaceful teaching caused trouble - indeed it did as they were exposed as not truly serving God, but themselves. Those who claimed to sit in Moses' seat misused and added to the word of God they were supposed to be responsible for. Even now people in power falsely accuse Christ (and His followers) to cover their own guilt in accountability to God.
2 And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.” 3 Then Pilate asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered him and said, “It is as you say.” 4 So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, “I find no fault in this Man.” 5 But they were the more fierce, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to this place.”
Jesus was accused of being both Messiah and King, and even Pilate did not see that as a problem. But the religious leaders were threatened by the truth and pushed harder by saying His peaceful teaching caused trouble - indeed it did as they were exposed as not truly serving God, but themselves. Those who claimed to sit in Moses' seat misused and added to the word of God they were supposed to be responsible for. Even now people in power falsely accuse Christ (and His followers) to cover their own guilt in accountability to God.
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
Jesus is Rightly the Son of God
Luke 22:67-71
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us." But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. 69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” 70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” 71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Jesus admitted He is the Messiah, the Christ, making Himself equal with God as no mere man. But when asked, Jesus first said the answer would not make them believe or stop persecuting Him to death. When they heard that He was the Son of God, that testimony sealed their charge of blasphemy and made the way to beatings and death on a cross. But He died for them as well... Who do you say Jesus is? This is the question for eternity we each must ask.
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us." But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. 69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” 70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” 71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Jesus admitted He is the Messiah, the Christ, making Himself equal with God as no mere man. But when asked, Jesus first said the answer would not make them believe or stop persecuting Him to death. When they heard that He was the Son of God, that testimony sealed their charge of blasphemy and made the way to beatings and death on a cross. But He died for them as well... Who do you say Jesus is? This is the question for eternity we each must ask.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Mocking God Blasphemously
Luke 22:63-65
63 Now the men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him. 64 And having blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is the one who struck You?” 65 And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him.
Christ gave us an example as He uniquely suffered and died for all who are His; so we can learn from the mocking and demanding of some who do not so much look for proof of truth as attempting to prove not to believe Him. The blasphemous words against God are ones we still hear as fearful men try to deny their accountability and ignore just judgment.m but in so doing they miss mercy and forgiving grace that comes only by His work and words...
63 Now the men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him. 64 And having blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is the one who struck You?” 65 And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him.
Christ gave us an example as He uniquely suffered and died for all who are His; so we can learn from the mocking and demanding of some who do not so much look for proof of truth as attempting to prove not to believe Him. The blasphemous words against God are ones we still hear as fearful men try to deny their accountability and ignore just judgment.m but in so doing they miss mercy and forgiving grace that comes only by His work and words...
Monday, July 11, 2016
Weeping for Distant Denial
Luke 22:54-55, 61-62
54 Having arrested Him, they led Him and brought Him into the high priest's house. But Peter followed at a distance. 55 Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
Peter kept his distance and was afraid to identify with Christ, even outright denying Him when confronted. And when it came out and he saw Jesus looking at him, Peter wept and regretted his denial. So we can learn to never deny in word or deed the one who bought us at such a price and avoid bitter regret (even though there is merciful forgiveness).
54 Having arrested Him, they led Him and brought Him into the high priest's house. But Peter followed at a distance. 55 Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
Peter kept his distance and was afraid to identify with Christ, even outright denying Him when confronted. And when it came out and he saw Jesus looking at him, Peter wept and regretted his denial. So we can learn to never deny in word or deed the one who bought us at such a price and avoid bitter regret (even though there is merciful forgiveness).
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Hour of Darkness' Power
Luke 22:52-53
52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to Him, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
Deeds against good are often done in the dark, as if hiding keeps it from God. They came afraid when only the disciples could witness the illegal arrest, as if saying you are the Son of God, the Messiah, was a crime. Those in religious power over or influencing governments over the centuries since that time have not silenced the truth of Jesus' message since, nor will they till the end of this world. Love and truth conquers all.
52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to Him, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
Deeds against good are often done in the dark, as if hiding keeps it from God. They came afraid when only the disciples could witness the illegal arrest, as if saying you are the Son of God, the Messiah, was a crime. Those in religious power over or influencing governments over the centuries since that time have not silenced the truth of Jesus' message since, nor will they till the end of this world. Love and truth conquers all.
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Betrayed by a Kiss
Luke 22:47-48
47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Mark 14:44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”
Instead of a kiss of greeting, the betrayer used a kiss to identify Jesus to be arrested, tortured, and killed on a cross. So we also betray Him as we deny before others and seem to agree with their feelings to Christ by not speaking up when it is needed. Do we betray with a kiss, or greet openly as our Savior Lord?
47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Mark 14:44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”
Instead of a kiss of greeting, the betrayer used a kiss to identify Jesus to be arrested, tortured, and killed on a cross. So we also betray Him as we deny before others and seem to agree with their feelings to Christ by not speaking up when it is needed. Do we betray with a kiss, or greet openly as our Savior Lord?
Friday, July 8, 2016
Drink the Cup of Suffering
Luke 22:42-46
42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. 46 Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
Praying to avoid temptation should be motivated by crucifying our desires (flesh) and living to please God - not to earn favor (all is by grace), but thankfully choosing what He made us for. Himself. So we labor in prayer by His strength to daily die to self and live for Christ because that is our deepest desire as new creations of a loving and merciful Creator. No matter the outcome, for He works all for good.
42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. 46 Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
Praying to avoid temptation should be motivated by crucifying our desires (flesh) and living to please God - not to earn favor (all is by grace), but thankfully choosing what He made us for. Himself. So we labor in prayer by His strength to daily die to self and live for Christ because that is our deepest desire as new creations of a loving and merciful Creator. No matter the outcome, for He works all for good.
Thursday, July 7, 2016
Gospel Provision
Luke 22:35
And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
When Jesus sends us out, He provides all we need. This is true for all who labor in the gospel. He goes on in the following verses to say the disciples should take what they need when they will be scattered as He is delivered up to be put to death. So we must be aware to take what we need - but we still rely on His provision.
And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
When Jesus sends us out, He provides all we need. This is true for all who labor in the gospel. He goes on in the following verses to say the disciples should take what they need when they will be scattered as He is delivered up to be put to death. So we must be aware to take what we need - but we still rely on His provision.
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Sifted and Not Found Wanting
Luke 22:31-34
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Our enemy seeks to take and wear us down, but our Lord prays for us as Peter to hold us up when faith is strained. Then He brings us through to serve others after having tasted trials and temptations. Yet knowing all these things we still fail... But He in us is greater, so we are lifted up and strengthened in faith to in turn strengthen others.
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Our enemy seeks to take and wear us down, but our Lord prays for us as Peter to hold us up when faith is strained. Then He brings us through to serve others after having tasted trials and temptations. Yet knowing all these things we still fail... But He in us is greater, so we are lifted up and strengthened in faith to in turn strengthen others.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Servant is the Greatest
Luke 22:25-27
25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves.
Who will be the greatest in God's kingdom? Jesus said the servant, the younger - not the ruler or the master at the table. Even Jesus gave the example to serve, not to be served. Humility out of love in action from the heart is true service, not finding ways to serve to earn a place of greatness; great service does not consider the result for self, but others.
25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves.
Who will be the greatest in God's kingdom? Jesus said the servant, the younger - not the ruler or the master at the table. Even Jesus gave the example to serve, not to be served. Humility out of love in action from the heart is true service, not finding ways to serve to earn a place of greatness; great service does not consider the result for self, but others.
Monday, July 4, 2016
New Covenant in His Blood
Luke 22:15-20
15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
Jesus yearned to have a final Passover with the disciples. He knew He would celebrate it with them in His kingdom, but until then they would celebrate and remember by sharing the cup and bread to partake of Him as the Passover lamb. This Lamb of God took away the world's sin as the only worthy sacrifice, and so we remember today till He returns. We have this new covenant, unbreakable and permanent, not earned or out of reach, but freely given when we are drawn to accept the gift in believing reception of heart and mind.
15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
Jesus yearned to have a final Passover with the disciples. He knew He would celebrate it with them in His kingdom, but until then they would celebrate and remember by sharing the cup and bread to partake of Him as the Passover lamb. This Lamb of God took away the world's sin as the only worthy sacrifice, and so we remember today till He returns. We have this new covenant, unbreakable and permanent, not earned or out of reach, but freely given when we are drawn to accept the gift in believing reception of heart and mind.
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Room Provided to Pass Over
Luke 22:7-9, 12-13
7 Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” 9 So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” 12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” 13 So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover.
The sacrifice had to be made in the time set aside, so Jesus had Peter and John kill it, just before all the people would sacrifice Him. Jesus even had the place set aside to celebrate the Passover, putting it into a man's heart to provide a room; so He also prepared a cross to die on as a sacrifice for all who would turn from sin to Him. As our Passover lamb Jesus took on our sin and passed over it all to forgive and give life out of the grave afterwards. Do we celebrate this?
7 Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” 9 So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” 12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” 13 So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover.
The sacrifice had to be made in the time set aside, so Jesus had Peter and John kill it, just before all the people would sacrifice Him. Jesus even had the place set aside to celebrate the Passover, putting it into a man's heart to provide a room; so He also prepared a cross to die on as a sacrifice for all who would turn from sin to Him. As our Passover lamb Jesus took on our sin and passed over it all to forgive and give life out of the grave afterwards. Do we celebrate this?
Saturday, July 2, 2016
Fearful Betrayal
Luke 22:2-6
2 And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people. 3 Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. 4 So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.
Those fearing the reaction of the people planned to kill Jesus whom the people still looked up to. So Satan moved one Judas to betray Jesus when few witnessed were around - and the religious leaders who feared the people and losing their power over them were glad for the opportunity to arrange His murder. Even now the devil stalks those of God, thinking the people will not see, but Jesus Christ in His people is further and sovereignly honored in it all.
2 And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people. 3 Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. 4 So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.
Those fearing the reaction of the people planned to kill Jesus whom the people still looked up to. So Satan moved one Judas to betray Jesus when few witnessed were around - and the religious leaders who feared the people and losing their power over them were glad for the opportunity to arrange His murder. Even now the devil stalks those of God, thinking the people will not see, but Jesus Christ in His people is further and sovereignly honored in it all.
Friday, July 1, 2016
Hear Him Early
Luke 21:37-38
37 And in the daytime He was teaching in the temple, but at night He went out and stayed on the mountain called Olivet. 38 Then early in the morning all the people came to Him in the temple to hear Him.
Jesus spent all day teaching, all night in reflection and prayer, and then rose again to teach all who would hear. His life was an example to us to use every moment as time for or with our Father in heaven. So should we imitate Christ and make our lives count - not to earn grace, but rather because of the free gift of grace.
37 And in the daytime He was teaching in the temple, but at night He went out and stayed on the mountain called Olivet. 38 Then early in the morning all the people came to Him in the temple to hear Him.
Jesus spent all day teaching, all night in reflection and prayer, and then rose again to teach all who would hear. His life was an example to us to use every moment as time for or with our Father in heaven. So should we imitate Christ and make our lives count - not to earn grace, but rather because of the free gift of grace.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)