Acts 2:36-39
36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” 37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Jesus is both the anointed of God and Lord of all, and mankind crucified Him. With that knowledge and knowing we deserve the death for sin that He took in our place, what should we do? We do not respond to God by joining a church or merely trying to live a moral life, but do as we hear here: turn from our life of sin with a mind knowing Jesus was perfect for us, and be immersed into Christ Himself and find a new birth with God Himself coming to live in us by faith He gives to as many of us as He calls out. When God opens our eyes and gives us the ability to believe, we turn to Him through Christ. No group we join or works we do can earn such a priceless gift!
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
Monday, January 30, 2017
Promise of God's Spirit
Acts 2:30-33
30 Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 he, [king David] foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.
God promised David to have his descendant sit as King, raised up from the dead and not just raised up to be King. He would not stay dead, but return for many witnesses to see. So the other promises also were to be seen, as this day when God promised His Spirit to be poured out on His people and all calling out on His name would be saved from judgment. What God promises certainly comes true every time, no matter how much time passes before it happens. His time is as perfect as the promises.
30 Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 he, [king David] foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.
God promised David to have his descendant sit as King, raised up from the dead and not just raised up to be King. He would not stay dead, but return for many witnesses to see. So the other promises also were to be seen, as this day when God promised His Spirit to be poured out on His people and all calling out on His name would be saved from judgment. What God promises certainly comes true every time, no matter how much time passes before it happens. His time is as perfect as the promises.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
God's Purpose and Foreknowledge
Acts 2:22-24
22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— 23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.
Israel saw God in Jesus by all He did and said, then God delivered His Son as He planned in order to suffer and be killed on a cursed tree. But He also planned for Jesus to defeat death as man and God, making a way for us to be called to faith and life from spiritual death from our sin. This was God's plan and purpose set from before time and given through Jesus Christ. The binding chains of sin are loosed and dead men now live for God in Him.
22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— 23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.
Israel saw God in Jesus by all He did and said, then God delivered His Son as He planned in order to suffer and be killed on a cursed tree. But He also planned for Jesus to defeat death as man and God, making a way for us to be called to faith and life from spiritual death from our sin. This was God's plan and purpose set from before time and given through Jesus Christ. The binding chains of sin are loosed and dead men now live for God in Him.
Saturday, January 28, 2017
Spirit Poured Out
Acts 2:17-21
17 ‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. 18 And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in heaven above And signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, And the moon into blood, Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. 21 And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved.’
God poured His Spirit into His people, and they spoke of His glory and things He did and would do - all so those who through Jesus Christ called on His name to be saved from the justice of God's due anger for their cosmic rebellion (sin) against the Most High. God revealed His plan through His Son and the apostles who wrote it down for us to live by. This was the oneness from John 17 'that was now the Church.
17 ‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. 18 And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in heaven above And signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, And the moon into blood, Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. 21 And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved.’
God poured His Spirit into His people, and they spoke of His glory and things He did and would do - all so those who through Jesus Christ called on His name to be saved from the justice of God's due anger for their cosmic rebellion (sin) against the Most High. God revealed His plan through His Son and the apostles who wrote it down for us to live by. This was the oneness from John 17 'that was now the Church.
Friday, January 27, 2017
Many Tongues Praising God
Acts 2:5-11
5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? ... —we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”
When God first came to live forever in His people, they spoke to many from around the world who came when they heard Jesus' followers talking in all their languages of all the wonderful things God has done. They marveled. They were amazed and in awe. The tongues, the world's languages were all spoken to unconfused listeners, bringing together what confusion was given when the Tower of Babel was attempted. Now unity would come in Christ, made possible by God's Spirit making it possible. The church had begun as the gospel was heard.
5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? ... —we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”
When God first came to live forever in His people, they spoke to many from around the world who came when they heard Jesus' followers talking in all their languages of all the wonderful things God has done. They marveled. They were amazed and in awe. The tongues, the world's languages were all spoken to unconfused listeners, bringing together what confusion was given when the Tower of Babel was attempted. Now unity would come in Christ, made possible by God's Spirit making it possible. The church had begun as the gospel was heard.
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Babel vs. Pentecost
Acts 2:1-4
1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
The day finally came that Jesus told the disciples to wait together in Jerusalem for. God's Spirit filled men, who then began speaking in many different languages in the midst of a large crowd from all over the area. Jesus told them before to make followers from all the world, so Hod brought the world first to them. God gave them the words to speak, they did not whip themselves up into a frenzy or force what only God could give - for the purpose of telling the good news to all, reversing Babel's curse.
1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
The day finally came that Jesus told the disciples to wait together in Jerusalem for. God's Spirit filled men, who then began speaking in many different languages in the midst of a large crowd from all over the area. Jesus told them before to make followers from all the world, so Hod brought the world first to them. God gave them the words to speak, they did not whip themselves up into a frenzy or force what only God could give - for the purpose of telling the good news to all, reversing Babel's curse.
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Chosen Successor
Acts 1:21-25
21 “Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen 25 to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”
Apostles were those who were witnesses from the baptism of John through the resurrection and into the clouds. They were eyewitnesses and shared together Christ's teaching. So they were led to pick one from two such men to fill the spot of Judas, and God confirmed which would be the one. The pattern is similar for elders and deacons - God shows the need and leads the others to the ones needed that God chooses.
21 “Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen 25 to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”
Apostles were those who were witnesses from the baptism of John through the resurrection and into the clouds. They were eyewitnesses and shared together Christ's teaching. So they were led to pick one from two such men to fill the spot of Judas, and God confirmed which would be the one. The pattern is similar for elders and deacons - God shows the need and leads the others to the ones needed that God chooses.
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Upper Room Accord
Acts 1:12-14
12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey. 13 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
After the apostles returned from watching Jesus go up into the clouds, they walked all day to go back to the place they were staying - and together they prayed. Continually. They prayed as they thought of His words and all that happened, but mostly because He told them to wait for enabling authority and ability to tell the world of Him and all they had seen and heard. They needed first to be changed by and in-dwelt by God to speak with understanding. So they waited and prayed.
12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey. 13 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
After the apostles returned from watching Jesus go up into the clouds, they walked all day to go back to the place they were staying - and together they prayed. Continually. They prayed as they thought of His words and all that happened, but mostly because He told them to wait for enabling authority and ability to tell the world of Him and all they had seen and heard. They needed first to be changed by and in-dwelt by God to speak with understanding. So they waited and prayed.
Monday, January 23, 2017
He Will So Return
Acts 1:9-11
9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
Jesus commissioned His followers to give testimony of what they had seen and heard and then saw Jesus go up into heaven. They were assured by angels that He would come back down the same way when it was time for His return. We also have this call and hope, certain and clear. Many will try to explain it all away, but for us who have been reconciled and know His living presence within us, we have a certainty in hope and mercy that cannot be lost or taken away from His almighty hand.
9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
Jesus commissioned His followers to give testimony of what they had seen and heard and then saw Jesus go up into heaven. They were assured by angels that He would come back down the same way when it was time for His return. We also have this call and hope, certain and clear. Many will try to explain it all away, but for us who have been reconciled and know His living presence within us, we have a certainty in hope and mercy that cannot be lost or taken away from His almighty hand.
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Witnesses to End of the Earth
Acts 1:6-8
6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
God has a plan that is finished, and He chooses to show what and when as He pleases. Our focus is not to be on the times of all things until the end, but is to be enabled by His presence living inside us to bear witness to His work to the world. This means we tell forth that Christ is the way, truth, and life unending - the good news of reconciling His children He calls out to Himself. The time of His future kingdom on earth will come, but we must be about our Father's business.
6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
God has a plan that is finished, and He chooses to show what and when as He pleases. Our focus is not to be on the times of all things until the end, but is to be enabled by His presence living inside us to bear witness to His work to the world. This means we tell forth that Christ is the way, truth, and life unending - the good news of reconciling His children He calls out to Himself. The time of His future kingdom on earth will come, but we must be about our Father's business.
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Wait for the Promise
Acts 1:4-5
4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
The apostles listened to Jesus when He told them to wait for God's Spirit to immerse them as promised, for then His law would be in their hearts made new and not on stony ones. The call to repentance had a ceremonial washing of water, but the salvation would be God filling all His children with Himself. So they waited. We now who are His have His Spirit, having repented and been reborn; there is no more waiting for more of Him - yielding, we offer more of us to His sovereign reign over us.
4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
The apostles listened to Jesus when He told them to wait for God's Spirit to immerse them as promised, for then His law would be in their hearts made new and not on stony ones. The call to repentance had a ceremonial washing of water, but the salvation would be God filling all His children with Himself. So they waited. We now who are His have His Spirit, having repented and been reborn; there is no more waiting for more of Him - yielding, we offer more of us to His sovereign reign over us.
Friday, January 20, 2017
Account for Lovers of God
Acts 1:1-3
1 The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen, 3 to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.
Luke here picks up from the end of his gospel account where Jesus told the apostles ("lovers of God") to wait in Jerusalem for Him. He reminds us to think of all Jesus did and said - including His resurrection and last commands to make disciples everywhere. Jesus proved again His authority for 40 days after He rose from death, telling more of His kingdom to them for us. Then they waited for Him again.
1 The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen, 3 to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.
Luke here picks up from the end of his gospel account where Jesus told the apostles ("lovers of God") to wait in Jerusalem for Him. He reminds us to think of all Jesus did and said - including His resurrection and last commands to make disciples everywhere. Jesus proved again His authority for 40 days after He rose from death, telling more of His kingdom to them for us. Then they waited for Him again.
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Not Enough Books
John 21:25
And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.
Jesus Christ was God's very word become a man like us, yet He was the infinite God who could speak everything God knows and chooses to reveal to us. Though He did not say everything, the amount He did say in three short years could fill the libraries of Congress and Alexandria, and still only be the prologue of an infinite God of unending knowledge. Add to that all the wonderful actions with those words, and we are left speechless with what is written down. It is more than sufficient to know in a lifetime here. But in eternity we will know completely as we are completely known... Awe.
And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.
Jesus Christ was God's very word become a man like us, yet He was the infinite God who could speak everything God knows and chooses to reveal to us. Though He did not say everything, the amount He did say in three short years could fill the libraries of Congress and Alexandria, and still only be the prologue of an infinite God of unending knowledge. Add to that all the wonderful actions with those words, and we are left speechless with what is written down. It is more than sufficient to know in a lifetime here. But in eternity we will know completely as we are completely known... Awe.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
You Follow Me
John 21:21-24
21 Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?” 22 Jesus said to him, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” 23 Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?” 24 This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true.
Jesus may allow some like John to live long until He is done revealing things to them and using them to tell of God and His glory. Others like Peter may be put to death for faith in Christ or even just be taken home early. The true testimony is what matters as it aligns with God's sovereign plan. Since He is in absolute control of all, we who are His should embrace our calling and follow to be conformed to His image, that of God in whose image we were created.
21 Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?” 22 Jesus said to him, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” 23 Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?” 24 This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true.
Jesus may allow some like John to live long until He is done revealing things to them and using them to tell of God and His glory. Others like Peter may be put to death for faith in Christ or even just be taken home early. The true testimony is what matters as it aligns with God's sovereign plan. Since He is in absolute control of all, we who are His should embrace our calling and follow to be conformed to His image, that of God in whose image we were created.
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Do You Love Me?
John 21:17-19
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. 18 Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” 19 This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me.”
Jesus wanted to make certain that Peter understood that really loving Him meant giving up his life for others, not just Himself. So Jesus asked three times if Peter loved Him - then got him to admit He knows his heart as part of all things. So the call to follow allowed Peter to count the cost of suffering and dying in serving. Do we follow by taking up a cross of imminent death each day in following where Jesus went, or do we just want to follow the first fruit of the resurrection into eternity apart from it?
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. 18 Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” 19 This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me.”
Jesus wanted to make certain that Peter understood that really loving Him meant giving up his life for others, not just Himself. So Jesus asked three times if Peter loved Him - then got him to admit He knows his heart as part of all things. So the call to follow allowed Peter to count the cost of suffering and dying in serving. Do we follow by taking up a cross of imminent death each day in following where Jesus went, or do we just want to follow the first fruit of the resurrection into eternity apart from it?
Monday, January 16, 2017
Come and Eat
John 21:9-12
9 Then, as soon as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.” 11 Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land, full of large fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not broken. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” Yet none of the disciples dared ask Him, “Who are You?”—knowing that it was the Lord.
God provides the fish we catch, yet even in large numbers keeps the net from breaking. He also provides for our needs with food as needed while we labor as for the disciples here. So should we eat of all He provides and launch out to fish where He leads us to bring in the harvest ready to be collected.
9 Then, as soon as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.” 11 Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land, full of large fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not broken. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” Yet none of the disciples dared ask Him, “Who are You?”—knowing that it was the Lord.
God provides the fish we catch, yet even in large numbers keeps the net from breaking. He also provides for our needs with food as needed while we labor as for the disciples here. So should we eat of all He provides and launch out to fish where He leads us to bring in the harvest ready to be collected.
Sunday, January 15, 2017
It is the Lord!
John 21:4-7
4 But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?” They answered Him, “No.” 6 And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish. 7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.
When Jesus came to some of the disciples fishing in their old trade for food, they did not recognize that He was with them until following His direction on where to fish. Then they caught so much that the net was too full to bring in the boat. John then realized it was Jesus and Peter swam to shore to meet Him. We can learn from this lesson to follow God's guidance to fish for men by the commands, principles, and examples of Scripture and His Spirit's lead as we keep in step with Him. Acknowledging who He is, we plunge in and follow.
4 But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?” They answered Him, “No.” 6 And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish. 7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.
When Jesus came to some of the disciples fishing in their old trade for food, they did not recognize that He was with them until following His direction on where to fish. Then they caught so much that the net was too full to bring in the boat. John then realized it was Jesus and Peter swam to shore to meet Him. We can learn from this lesson to follow God's guidance to fish for men by the commands, principles, and examples of Scripture and His Spirit's lead as we keep in step with Him. Acknowledging who He is, we plunge in and follow.
Saturday, January 14, 2017
That You May Believe
John 20:30-31
30 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.
Not every action or word Jesus said was recorded for us in John's gospel account, nor in the others - but what we require to know in order to have life by faith in Jesus as the Anointed man who is Son of God is written down. God gave us the exact amount needed so we can know what reconciling work He did to justify and rescue us from the justice of our due wrath. Much is hidden until that time we see His glory and know as we are perfectly known. But what we have is complete for our salvation and life on this earth to be conformed to the image of God in the face of Jesus Christ. We need not seek elsewhere or speculate beyond the absolute.
30 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.
Not every action or word Jesus said was recorded for us in John's gospel account, nor in the others - but what we require to know in order to have life by faith in Jesus as the Anointed man who is Son of God is written down. God gave us the exact amount needed so we can know what reconciling work He did to justify and rescue us from the justice of our due wrath. Much is hidden until that time we see His glory and know as we are perfectly known. But what we have is complete for our salvation and life on this earth to be conformed to the image of God in the face of Jesus Christ. We need not seek elsewhere or speculate beyond the absolute.
Friday, January 13, 2017
We Have Seen the Lord
John 20:25-29
25 The other disciples therefore said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” So he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” 26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.” 28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Thomas doubted what he could not see with his eyes, even when trustworthy witnesses told him they saw Jesus alive after death. We should not have to touch and see to believe He is our Lord and God; faith accepts reliable testimonies of the truth, and God is looking for those who will take Him at His word, even through we who are witnesses of Him in ourselves. We bear witness to that truth who lives in us, based on His reliable word handed down from His mouth through the eyewitnesses.
25 The other disciples therefore said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” So he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” 26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.” 28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Thomas doubted what he could not see with his eyes, even when trustworthy witnesses told him they saw Jesus alive after death. We should not have to touch and see to believe He is our Lord and God; faith accepts reliable testimonies of the truth, and God is looking for those who will take Him at His word, even through we who are witnesses of Him in ourselves. We bear witness to that truth who lives in us, based on His reliable word handed down from His mouth through the eyewitnesses.
Thursday, January 12, 2017
I Send You
John 20:21-23
21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
Jesus breathed enough of His Spirit on the apostles until Pentecost for immersion in Him forever, as in the OT where God's Spirit came long enough to do God's work and then went away gain. Here they received to be able to forgive sins in Jesus' name as they waited in Jerusalem for the promise. The real importance here is that God's work needs His power and authority by His presence in us to be effective. This is peace to us and to those we minister to.
21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
Jesus breathed enough of His Spirit on the apostles until Pentecost for immersion in Him forever, as in the OT where God's Spirit came long enough to do God's work and then went away gain. Here they received to be able to forgive sins in Jesus' name as they waited in Jerusalem for the promise. The real importance here is that God's work needs His power and authority by His presence in us to be effective. This is peace to us and to those we minister to.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Peace Be With You
John 20:19-20
19 Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
Proof of the resurrection stood before the disciples who were to be the foundation as apostles, and they began to know peace with God with certainty of life through death, hope for eternity. How glad they were to see Him, just beginning to grasp all Jesus said about needing to suffer, die, and rise again!
19 Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
Proof of the resurrection stood before the disciples who were to be the foundation as apostles, and they began to know peace with God with certainty of life through death, hope for eternity. How glad they were to see Him, just beginning to grasp all Jesus said about needing to suffer, die, and rise again!
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Ascended to the Father
John 20:17-18
17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’ ” 18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.
Jesus had to go to the Father bodily and not just in spirit. He is our Father and God, and we too will go to Him when we die, for Christ as the first fruits made the way. So we have peace with God.
17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’ ” 18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.
Jesus had to go to the Father bodily and not just in spirit. He is our Father and God, and we too will go to Him when we die, for Christ as the first fruits made the way. So we have peace with God.
Monday, January 9, 2017
Why are you Weeping?
John 20:12-16
12 And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 13 Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” 14 Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).
Jesus came back to life by His own power - no trick or deception or substitute for the Son of Man and God. So the disciples left and Mary stayed to see angels sitting where Jesus was laid until Jesus stood behind her outside the tomb looking in. He asked who she was looking for, and she did not know Him until He called her name. So we do not see Jesus right in front of us until He calls us by name and shows Himself to us.
12 And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 13 Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” 14 Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).
Jesus came back to life by His own power - no trick or deception or substitute for the Son of Man and God. So the disciples left and Mary stayed to see angels sitting where Jesus was laid until Jesus stood behind her outside the tomb looking in. He asked who she was looking for, and she did not know Him until He called her name. So we do not see Jesus right in front of us until He calls us by name and shows Himself to us.
Sunday, January 8, 2017
Believe He is Risen
John 20:1-9
1 Now the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.” 3 Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. 4 So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. 5 And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed. 9 For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead.
When Jesus was not found in the opened tomb, the assumption was that someone stole the body; but the disciples saw the burial cloths empty and the one from His head neatly folded up as if removed and put purposefully in place. So they believed when seeing Jesus was gone - but not that He rose from death in the grave to life again in the body. Their understanding was still not able to know this was what the Old Testament and Jesus Himself had told them. They needed God's Spirit to resurrect their understanding to know what happened, just as we do to have faith to believe.
1 Now the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.” 3 Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. 4 So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. 5 And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed. 9 For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead.
When Jesus was not found in the opened tomb, the assumption was that someone stole the body; but the disciples saw the burial cloths empty and the one from His head neatly folded up as if removed and put purposefully in place. So they believed when seeing Jesus was gone - but not that He rose from death in the grave to life again in the body. Their understanding was still not able to know this was what the Old Testament and Jesus Himself had told them. They needed God's Spirit to resurrect their understanding to know what happened, just as we do to have faith to believe.
Saturday, January 7, 2017
Identify With Christ
John 19:38-42
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
Jesus was buried by fearful disciples and who still risked excommunication and shunning to properly prepare Jesus for a religiously proper burial. They then laid Him in a tomb close by to get ready more quickly for the Sabbath, not wanting to miss the religious day nor upset religious leaders, doing all things orderly and to fulfill the requirements of the law. They risked much to be identified with Christ, as should we.
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
Jesus was buried by fearful disciples and who still risked excommunication and shunning to properly prepare Jesus for a religiously proper burial. They then laid Him in a tomb close by to get ready more quickly for the Sabbath, not wanting to miss the religious day nor upset religious leaders, doing all things orderly and to fulfill the requirements of the law. They risked much to be identified with Christ, as should we.
Friday, January 6, 2017
Predestined to Die
John 19:33-37
33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
How Jesus did all according to the sovereign Father's will - God told us long before that the soldiers would not be able to break Jesus' bones, and that the crowd before the cross would gaze at the one they pierced by the Roman soldier's spear. None of this could be humanly orchestrated. It was God in perfect control of history and circumstances. So should we who are His trust that all things are allowed for good (His glory and what is best for us), no matter how painful or seemingly hopeless in the moment. Look ahead in absolute trust because of who He is and rest in the promises.
33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
How Jesus did all according to the sovereign Father's will - God told us long before that the soldiers would not be able to break Jesus' bones, and that the crowd before the cross would gaze at the one they pierced by the Roman soldier's spear. None of this could be humanly orchestrated. It was God in perfect control of history and circumstances. So should we who are His trust that all things are allowed for good (His glory and what is best for us), no matter how painful or seemingly hopeless in the moment. Look ahead in absolute trust because of who He is and rest in the promises.
Thursday, January 5, 2017
It is Finished!
John 19:28-30
28 After this, Jesus, seeing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus hung long enough on the cross to fulfill scriptures like Psalm 22, then said that His work was done to suffer and die for us. His thirst satisfied, Jesus gave His Spirit leave of the body and died to pay the price of our sin as the final and complete sacrifice to satisfy God's just anger on our disobedience to Him. He did all He said since Genesis, and died as a blameless and pure lamb on the final altar of wood as foreshadowed by the one Abraham built for Isaac long ago. The promises of the Messiah were finished, and soon to be effective by the resurrection.
28 After this, Jesus, seeing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus hung long enough on the cross to fulfill scriptures like Psalm 22, then said that His work was done to suffer and die for us. His thirst satisfied, Jesus gave His Spirit leave of the body and died to pay the price of our sin as the final and complete sacrifice to satisfy God's just anger on our disobedience to Him. He did all He said since Genesis, and died as a blameless and pure lamb on the final altar of wood as foreshadowed by the one Abraham built for Isaac long ago. The promises of the Messiah were finished, and soon to be effective by the resurrection.
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
Behold...
John 19:25-27
25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.
Jesus ensured His mother would be taken care of by a trusted disciple after He died - even on the cross He fulfilled the Law regarding care of family, and He did it in love by choosing one who was loved and could love. So we learn in the body of Christ to care for each other by this example, not just going through the motions but with love and thought.
25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.
Jesus ensured His mother would be taken care of by a trusted disciple after He died - even on the cross He fulfilled the Law regarding care of family, and He did it in love by choosing one who was loved and could love. So we learn in the body of Christ to care for each other by this example, not just going through the motions but with love and thought.
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Gambling for Christ
John 19:23-24
23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took His garments and made four parts, to each soldier a part, and also the tunic. Now the tunic was without seam, woven from the top in one piece. 24 They said therefore among themselves, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be,” that the Scripture might be fulfilled which says: “They divided My garments among them and for My clothing they cast lots.” Therefore the soldiers did these things.
Therefore the soldiers did these things - what God wrote centuries ago in Psalm 22 came true in history as Jesus was hung to suffer and die on a cross. So they stripped Him, divided up and gambled for His clothing. They wanted the wrong parts of Jesus, missing the forgiveness, reconciliation, wisdom, and unending life with God in Him. They gambled and lost everything.
23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took His garments and made four parts, to each soldier a part, and also the tunic. Now the tunic was without seam, woven from the top in one piece. 24 They said therefore among themselves, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be,” that the Scripture might be fulfilled which says: “They divided My garments among them and for My clothing they cast lots.” Therefore the soldiers did these things.
Therefore the soldiers did these things - what God wrote centuries ago in Psalm 22 came true in history as Jesus was hung to suffer and die on a cross. So they stripped Him, divided up and gambled for His clothing. They wanted the wrong parts of Jesus, missing the forgiveness, reconciliation, wisdom, and unending life with God in Him. They gambled and lost everything.
Monday, January 2, 2017
The King of All
John 19:19-22
19 Now Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross. And the writing was: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20 Then many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. 21 Therefore the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but, ‘He said, “I am the King of the Jews.” ’ ” 22 Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”
Jesus was titled as King of the Jews by a Roman authority, which angered the religious leaders because they denied Jesus' claim as their King and Lord. But their protests fell flat as Pilate used a phrase similar to scripture's authority of "it is written." He said what he wrote he had written. So even then God's plan to fulfill scripture was glaringly obvious, as the sign was both given and posted to remind all who the Son of God and Man is, the King of kings.
19 Now Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross. And the writing was: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20 Then many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. 21 Therefore the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but, ‘He said, “I am the King of the Jews.” ’ ” 22 Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”
Jesus was titled as King of the Jews by a Roman authority, which angered the religious leaders because they denied Jesus' claim as their King and Lord. But their protests fell flat as Pilate used a phrase similar to scripture's authority of "it is written." He said what he wrote he had written. So even then God's plan to fulfill scripture was glaringly obvious, as the sign was both given and posted to remind all who the Son of God and Man is, the King of kings.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
Crucify the King!
John 19:14-16
14 Now it was the Preparation Day of the Passover, and about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15 But they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify Him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar!” 16 Then he delivered Him to them to be crucified. Then they took Jesus and led Him away.
Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar they said, and that Jesus should die because He was not their king. The religious leaders wanted the Son of God dead so they could continue to falsely worship on their own terms with their own laws. So Jesus was led away to be horribly killed, nailed to a tree in shame. But God planned this from long ago, and the King of kings would rise again with mercy in His wings to pass over our sin against Him once and for all He calls.
14 Now it was the Preparation Day of the Passover, and about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15 But they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify Him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar!” 16 Then he delivered Him to them to be crucified. Then they took Jesus and led Him away.
Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar they said, and that Jesus should die because He was not their king. The religious leaders wanted the Son of God dead so they could continue to falsely worship on their own terms with their own laws. So Jesus was led away to be horribly killed, nailed to a tree in shame. But God planned this from long ago, and the King of kings would rise again with mercy in His wings to pass over our sin against Him once and for all He calls.
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