Luke 17:32-37
32 Remember Lot's wife. 33 Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. 34 I tell you, in that night there will be two men in one bed: the one will be taken and the other will be left. 35 Two women will be grinding together: the one will be taken and the other left. 36 Two men will be in the field: the one will be taken and the other left.” 37 And they answered and said to Him, “Where, Lord?” So He said to them, “Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.”
When we lose our lives to gain what God wants and provides for us, we have a certain hope of life with Him. If we did not receive that grace in forgiveness, we also would be left out of His presence forever. Just as vultures circle dying ones, so death is seen over those still under judgment who have not been saved from the just wrath to come. Choose life!
Sunday, May 29, 2016
Saturday, May 28, 2016
Unexpected Second Coming
Luke 17:23-27
23 And they will say to you, ‘Look here!’ or ‘Look there!’ Do not go after them or follow them. 24 For as the lightning that flashes out of one part under heaven shines to the other part under heaven, so also the Son of Man will be in His day. 25 But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. 26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.
Many get so absorbed in trying to discern the end times that they miss the fact that He will return when nobody expects, and that people will be carrying on with life until the judgment falls on all. Luke 17:33 says, "Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it." So we need to ask ourselves if we have lost our own lives to be found in Him, and if so do we warn others in love as well?
23 And they will say to you, ‘Look here!’ or ‘Look there!’ Do not go after them or follow them. 24 For as the lightning that flashes out of one part under heaven shines to the other part under heaven, so also the Son of Man will be in His day. 25 But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. 26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.
Many get so absorbed in trying to discern the end times that they miss the fact that He will return when nobody expects, and that people will be carrying on with life until the judgment falls on all. Luke 17:33 says, "Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it." So we need to ask ourselves if we have lost our own lives to be found in Him, and if so do we warn others in love as well?
Friday, May 27, 2016
His Kingdom is Within Us
Luke 17:20-22
20 Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; 21 nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.” 22 Then He said to the disciples, “The days will come when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it.
The kingdom is in us. It is not a thing to look for, just as our eternal life began at our regeneration. So why be so concerned with "end time signs" when we have it all within by the grace of God in Christ already? Of more concern is bearing witness to what He gave us already that others may see their own lack of absolute goodness, failure to please God by deeds alone, the need for God Himself to sinlessly take our just due, and grace in forgiveness to bring us into His kingdom forever?
20 Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; 21 nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.” 22 Then He said to the disciples, “The days will come when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it.
The kingdom is in us. It is not a thing to look for, just as our eternal life began at our regeneration. So why be so concerned with "end time signs" when we have it all within by the grace of God in Christ already? Of more concern is bearing witness to what He gave us already that others may see their own lack of absolute goodness, failure to please God by deeds alone, the need for God Himself to sinlessly take our just due, and grace in forgiveness to bring us into His kingdom forever?
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Absolute Gratitude
Luke 17:15-19
15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan. 17 So Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? 18 Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 And He said to him, “Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well.”
When God delivers us and makes us His own, how do we respond - not just at that moment, but every day after that? From here we see a heart of absolute gratitude honors God for what He has done in Christ for us, as our faith made us well in bringing us out of darkness into His marvelous light! So we should go every day with thankfulness in faith.
15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan. 17 So Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? 18 Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 And He said to him, “Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well.”
When God delivers us and makes us His own, how do we respond - not just at that moment, but every day after that? From here we see a heart of absolute gratitude honors God for what He has done in Christ for us, as our faith made us well in bringing us out of darkness into His marvelous light! So we should go every day with thankfulness in faith.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Servants Do Our Duty
Luke 17:7-10
7 And which of you, having a servant plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, “Come at once and sit down to eat’? 8 But will he not rather say to him, “Prepare something for my supper, and gird yourself and serve me till I have eaten and drunk, and afterward you will eat and drink’? 9 Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not. 10 So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’ ”
Do we expect as servants of Christ to be given everything as if we are the master? Or do we serve as Jesus did, not expecting thanks but doing what we know we must simply do? We are called to serve, not be served. So how can we complain if we do not have others do what we want and get all we ask of God without this humility of giving?
7 And which of you, having a servant plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, “Come at once and sit down to eat’? 8 But will he not rather say to him, “Prepare something for my supper, and gird yourself and serve me till I have eaten and drunk, and afterward you will eat and drink’? 9 Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not. 10 So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’ ”
Do we expect as servants of Christ to be given everything as if we are the master? Or do we serve as Jesus did, not expecting thanks but doing what we know we must simply do? We are called to serve, not be served. So how can we complain if we do not have others do what we want and get all we ask of God without this humility of giving?
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
More Faith?
Luke 17:5-6
5 And the apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” 6 So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.
We ask for more faith, but do we exercise the faith we already possess? And do we see that the smallest bit of trust is not in our ability, wisdom, or strength but in God who enables and wills what is to be done? Faith is not to give us power or put on a show of miracles - faith is trusting in the faithful, willing, and able God who glorifies and exalts Himself in answering our absolute believing trust absolutely. Faith is the solid reality in what we cannot see or touch.
5 And the apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” 6 So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.
We ask for more faith, but do we exercise the faith we already possess? And do we see that the smallest bit of trust is not in our ability, wisdom, or strength but in God who enables and wills what is to be done? Faith is not to give us power or put on a show of miracles - faith is trusting in the faithful, willing, and able God who glorifies and exalts Himself in answering our absolute believing trust absolutely. Faith is the solid reality in what we cannot see or touch.
Monday, May 23, 2016
Forgive and Don't Offend
Luke 17:1-4
1 Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. 3 Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”
We offend in many ways, some worse than others; the greatest offense is in refusing to forgive another. But we must warn or rebuke those who do us wrong so they know they have offended and turn from doing it again (repentance with real sorrow). So we can be reconciled. Bit of we offend and refuse to repent, there will be consequences. So the fellowship of confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation is God's desire and command.
1 Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. 3 Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”
We offend in many ways, some worse than others; the greatest offense is in refusing to forgive another. But we must warn or rebuke those who do us wrong so they know they have offended and turn from doing it again (repentance with real sorrow). So we can be reconciled. Bit of we offend and refuse to repent, there will be consequences. So the fellowship of confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation is God's desire and command.
Sunday, May 22, 2016
No Purgatory; Death then Judgment
Luke 16:25-31
25 But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’
27 “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ 29 Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’ ”
When we die, there is never a second chance; the only hope we have is to hear and believe the one who came to us from the dead - Jesus Christ who paid our ransom, suffered and died in our place, and rose Himself up from death to life. Such life from spiritual death is offered from the one who rose first and now offers us life into the grave and beyond. There is no purgatory, no coming back to get it right, we die once and face either judgment or forgiveness to life.
25 But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’
27 “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ 29 Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’ ”
When we die, there is never a second chance; the only hope we have is to hear and believe the one who came to us from the dead - Jesus Christ who paid our ransom, suffered and died in our place, and rose Himself up from death to life. Such life from spiritual death is offered from the one who rose first and now offers us life into the grave and beyond. There is no purgatory, no coming back to get it right, we die once and face either judgment or forgiveness to life.
Saturday, May 21, 2016
The Law Lives in the Heart
Luke 16:17-18
17 And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail. 18 “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced from her husband commits adultery.
Though the Law, especially the Ten Commandments, cannot justify us for salvation, it is still God's will in letters - but in one reborn it should be written on our hearts as well. So the example here is that adultery results from divorce (except for infidelity and when an unbelieving spouse leaves). But there is mercy and forgiveness in Christ. Yet sin is still sin. The balance in understanding these two truths is essential to not allow sin or to judge others (or self) harshly.
17 And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail. 18 “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced from her husband commits adultery.
Though the Law, especially the Ten Commandments, cannot justify us for salvation, it is still God's will in letters - but in one reborn it should be written on our hearts as well. So the example here is that adultery results from divorce (except for infidelity and when an unbelieving spouse leaves). But there is mercy and forgiveness in Christ. Yet sin is still sin. The balance in understanding these two truths is essential to not allow sin or to judge others (or self) harshly.
Friday, May 20, 2016
Pressing into the Kingdom
Luke 16:16
“The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it."
People are being urged to press into the kingdom since the gospel of repentance and faith has begun to be been told, starting with John he Baptist, then Jesus himself, then the apostles - and now witnessed to and told by we who are made new. The kingdom of God is a new birth, a transformed soul, a belonging to God in Christ (not human institutions), and a certain hope from now into and beyond death forever. That reconciliation with God our Lord and King brings us into His kingdom. That is good news to urge others to press into.
“The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it."
People are being urged to press into the kingdom since the gospel of repentance and faith has begun to be been told, starting with John he Baptist, then Jesus himself, then the apostles - and now witnessed to and told by we who are made new. The kingdom of God is a new birth, a transformed soul, a belonging to God in Christ (not human institutions), and a certain hope from now into and beyond death forever. That reconciliation with God our Lord and King brings us into His kingdom. That is good news to urge others to press into.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Divided Allegiance
Luke 16:13-15
13 “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." 14 Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these things, and they derided Him. 15 And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God."
If you love money, not just have it, then your heart's allegiance is not just divided with God and self. Such love of money is truly the root, the cause of evil - it makes men push God aside for self and treat others without love or consideration. God knows our hearts and others will see the results of this as we attempt to justify ourselves. He also calls this love of money an abomination, a detestable idolatry. Who do we serve?
13 “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." 14 Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these things, and they derided Him. 15 And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God."
If you love money, not just have it, then your heart's allegiance is not just divided with God and self. Such love of money is truly the root, the cause of evil - it makes men push God aside for self and treat others without love or consideration. God knows our hearts and others will see the results of this as we attempt to justify ourselves. He also calls this love of money an abomination, a detestable idolatry. Who do we serve?
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Faithful in All Things
Luke 16:8-11
8 So the master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light. 9 “And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. 10 He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11 Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
We can make deals and compromise when things go badly in an attempt to get something in return when we need it later. But in the things of God, our everlasting home is not in the riches we set ourselves up for, but faithfulness in Ahmet we have been given in the first place. If we cannot even be faithful in the material things we are given, how will we ever be entrusted with true and never ending ones?
8 So the master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light. 9 “And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. 10 He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11 Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
We can make deals and compromise when things go badly in an attempt to get something in return when we need it later. But in the things of God, our everlasting home is not in the riches we set ourselves up for, but faithfulness in Ahmet we have been given in the first place. If we cannot even be faithful in the material things we are given, how will we ever be entrusted with true and never ending ones?
Monday, May 16, 2016
Lost and Found
Luke 15:30-32
30 But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.’ 31 “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’ ”
The brother of the returned prodigal could not understand his father's open arms for his sinful brother. Be missed the fact that the prodigal was dead and lost, and now came to life in being found. So are we, lost in sin's grip and dead to God inside - until found by His Son who took our punishment so we could freely find our Father's love in a new life! That is cause for God to "make merry and be glad."
30 But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.’ 31 “And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.’ ”
The brother of the returned prodigal could not understand his father's open arms for his sinful brother. Be missed the fact that the prodigal was dead and lost, and now came to life in being found. So are we, lost in sin's grip and dead to God inside - until found by His Son who took our punishment so we could freely find our Father's love in a new life! That is cause for God to "make merry and be glad."
Sunday, May 15, 2016
Compassion for Returning Prodigal
Luke 15:20-24
20 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
When we run from God into a wasteful life, He waits for us to come to our senses and turn to Him, admitting our sin. He then gives us the kingdom with more joy and blessing than we ever could imagine - and never deserve. This grace of God in Christ brings us into His joy...
20 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
When we run from God into a wasteful life, He waits for us to come to our senses and turn to Him, admitting our sin. He then gives us the kingdom with more joy and blessing than we ever could imagine - and never deserve. This grace of God in Christ brings us into His joy...
Saturday, May 14, 2016
Rejoice for Repenting Sinner
Luke 15:8-10
8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!’ 10 Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
When you lose your treasure, worth both money and status, you diligently search everywhere to find it and can't rest or find peace until you find it. Then you feel compelled to share the good news because of the elation from the peace and satisfaction of it being found. How much more God and His servant angels have abounding joy when just one of us is brought from being hopelessly lost from Him to reconciliation and gracious mercy! That love drove Jesus to suffer and die in our place.
8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!’ 10 Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
When you lose your treasure, worth both money and status, you diligently search everywhere to find it and can't rest or find peace until you find it. Then you feel compelled to share the good news because of the elation from the peace and satisfaction of it being found. How much more God and His servant angels have abounding joy when just one of us is brought from being hopelessly lost from Him to reconciliation and gracious mercy! That love drove Jesus to suffer and die in our place.
Friday, May 13, 2016
Joy Over Found Sheep
Luke 15:6-7
6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
God so rejoices in just one coming to be found by faith in His given grace through Christ! We are all lost like wandering sheep until we hear and turn (repent) to follow. Then there is such joy in heaven such as is not seen for those already found...
6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
God so rejoices in just one coming to be found by faith in His given grace through Christ! We are all lost like wandering sheep until we hear and turn (repent) to follow. Then there is such joy in heaven such as is not seen for those already found...
Thursday, May 12, 2016
Sinners as Lost Sheep
Luke 15:1-4
1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?
Do we get accused for eating or associating with "sinners?" Jesus did. We must see we are all under judgment apart from the grace and mercy in Christ, and so need to be where other sinners like us are in life. How else can lost sheep be brought back from the destruction they are unaware they are heading towards?
1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?
Do we get accused for eating or associating with "sinners?" Jesus did. We must see we are all under judgment apart from the grace and mercy in Christ, and so need to be where other sinners like us are in life. How else can lost sheep be brought back from the destruction they are unaware they are heading towards?
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Live with Preserving Flavor
Luke 14:34-35
34 “Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
We are as salt that adds lasting flavor and offers to preserve what is good through the words of hope, the good news. If we become as what we were rescued and set apart from, then we are good only for the trash. To be of value we do not need to be relevant to society, but to God and His words - true seasoning does not add to or mask life's flavor, it gives it real taste. So we do not adapt truth to attract moths to our flame, but present it with its inherent flavor to those who are looking to hear it...
34 “Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
We are as salt that adds lasting flavor and offers to preserve what is good through the words of hope, the good news. If we become as what we were rescued and set apart from, then we are good only for the trash. To be of value we do not need to be relevant to society, but to God and His words - true seasoning does not add to or mask life's flavor, it gives it real taste. So we do not adapt truth to attract moths to our flame, but present it with its inherent flavor to those who are looking to hear it...
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Count the Cost and Follow
Luke 14:28-33
28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— 29 lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’... 33 So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
Have we counted the real cost of following Jesus Christ? It is our very lives. Do we halfway commit to follow Him to only avoid hell, or to expect to get things from Him (easy life, wealth, etc.)? Or do we see the cost to build on our lives includes tearing down as well as building up and suffering to honor the one who bought us at such a price? We cannot be His followers (Christians) if we are not willing to be nailed as it were to a cross daily to die to ourselves that we may live for Him.
28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— 29 lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’... 33 So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
Have we counted the real cost of following Jesus Christ? It is our very lives. Do we halfway commit to follow Him to only avoid hell, or to expect to get things from Him (easy life, wealth, etc.)? Or do we see the cost to build on our lives includes tearing down as well as building up and suffering to honor the one who bought us at such a price? We cannot be His followers (Christians) if we are not willing to be nailed as it were to a cross daily to die to ourselves that we may live for Him.
Monday, May 9, 2016
Love Follows on a Cross
Luke 14:25-27
25 Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.
Do we truly love God more than anyone else, so much that our love for those closest to us is closer to hate than love? Jesus pointed out that we are to have no other before Him to become our gods. A disciple follows one master. To do this we must nail ourselves to the cross each day, dying to our desires to live for Him above all others. This does not negate our love and responsibilities for others, it just eclipses them.
25 Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.
Do we truly love God more than anyone else, so much that our love for those closest to us is closer to hate than love? Jesus pointed out that we are to have no other before Him to become our gods. A disciple follows one master. To do this we must nail ourselves to the cross each day, dying to our desires to live for Him above all others. This does not negate our love and responsibilities for others, it just eclipses them.
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Dining in the Kingdom
Luke 14:15,22-24
15 Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” 22 And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.’ 23 Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.’ ”
Sadly, though many are called to eat at heaven's table, few are chosen to the narrow way and instead find excuses on the wide road to deny the invitation. So those who realize their eternal helplessness and hopelessness come willingly and eagerly to dine with their Master and Lord. We are compelled to freely enter in and dine with the God of all creation; how can we know this and still refuse to eat with Him in the kingdom of God?
15 Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” 22 And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.’ 23 Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.’ ”
Sadly, though many are called to eat at heaven's table, few are chosen to the narrow way and instead find excuses on the wide road to deny the invitation. So those who realize their eternal helplessness and hopelessness come willingly and eagerly to dine with their Master and Lord. We are compelled to freely enter in and dine with the God of all creation; how can we know this and still refuse to eat with Him in the kingdom of God?
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Return on Investment
Luke 14:12-14
12 Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor rich neighbors, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”
Not only must we not look for all we can get, we need to also extend our giving to those who cannot repay us. It is so easy to give with expectations of getting something in return, but how much more rewarding when those we help are the reward itself! God honors the selfless as well as humble heart. So He gave His Son to us, knowing we could never pay Him back for such a price He paid...
12 Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor rich neighbors, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”
Not only must we not look for all we can get, we need to also extend our giving to those who cannot repay us. It is so easy to give with expectations of getting something in return, but how much more rewarding when those we help are the reward itself! God honors the selfless as well as humble heart. So He gave His Son to us, knowing we could never pay Him back for such a price He paid...
Friday, May 6, 2016
Humble are Called Higher
Luke 14:7-11
7 So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Humility is not next to godliness as the saying goes - humility is the foundation of a true godly character as Jesus pointed out in this parable. Seeking the most and best position or possessions only brings shame before God and man in time. Those who accept what God gives with contentment leave the sovereign choice to God who gives all things richly to enjoy in His time and with His portions. He lifts up those who allow Him by not seeking it.
7 So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Humility is not next to godliness as the saying goes - humility is the foundation of a true godly character as Jesus pointed out in this parable. Seeking the most and best position or possessions only brings shame before God and man in time. Those who accept what God gives with contentment leave the sovereign choice to God who gives all things richly to enjoy in His time and with His portions. He lifts up those who allow Him by not seeking it.
Thursday, May 5, 2016
Rules or Love in Action?
Luke 14:3-6
3 And Jesus, answering, spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” 4 But they kept silent. And He took him and healed him, and let him go. 5 Then He answered them, saying, “Which of you, having a donkey or an ox that has fallen into a pit, will not immediately pull him out on the Sabbath day?” 6 And they could not answer Him regarding these things.
The religious leaders were waiting to pounce on Jesus to catch the smallest thing to accuse or discredit Him with. When Jesus asked a direct question before helping a man on a religious day where it was supposedly forbidden to do any work, they refused to answer. He further reminded them how they themselves also broke their own rule when it profited them, silencing further accusations in their revealed guilt. Do we judge harshly or in mercy and truth?
3 And Jesus, answering, spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” 4 But they kept silent. And He took him and healed him, and let him go. 5 Then He answered them, saying, “Which of you, having a donkey or an ox that has fallen into a pit, will not immediately pull him out on the Sabbath day?” 6 And they could not answer Him regarding these things.
The religious leaders were waiting to pounce on Jesus to catch the smallest thing to accuse or discredit Him with. When Jesus asked a direct question before helping a man on a religious day where it was supposedly forbidden to do any work, they refused to answer. He further reminded them how they themselves also broke their own rule when it profited them, silencing further accusations in their revealed guilt. Do we judge harshly or in mercy and truth?
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
Trust God's Work in Christ
Luke 13:34-35
34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! 35 See! Your house is left to you desolate; and assuredly, I say to you, you shall not see Me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ”
Jesus loves and calls us to Himself, waiting for us to acknowledge Him as the Christ (Messiah) who comes in the name and presence of God himself among us. We cannot see God except in Jesus and honor that by believing with trusting faith in all He is and has done. We glorify and honor God by believing His Son. So He longs to gather all who actively believe to Himself in one body - the church.
34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! 35 See! Your house is left to you desolate; and assuredly, I say to you, you shall not see Me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ”
Jesus loves and calls us to Himself, waiting for us to acknowledge Him as the Christ (Messiah) who comes in the name and presence of God himself among us. We cannot see God except in Jesus and honor that by believing with trusting faith in all He is and has done. We glorify and honor God by believing His Son. So He longs to gather all who actively believe to Himself in one body - the church.
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Stay the Gospel Course
Luke 13:31-33
31 On that very day some Pharisees came, saying to Him, “Get out and depart from here, for Herod wants to kill You.” 32 And He said to them, “Go, tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.’ 33 Nevertheless I must journey today, tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish outside of Jerusalem.
On the day Jesus spoke on deliverance from our hopeless state, threats to kill Him because of that message came. Yet Jesus went on doing good and teaching while setting men free, knowing He was headed toward a cruel death on a tree - cursed as it was written - all to set us free in taking our deserved punishment. He did not run from this death, but into and through it for us.
31 On that very day some Pharisees came, saying to Him, “Get out and depart from here, for Herod wants to kill You.” 32 And He said to them, “Go, tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.’ 33 Nevertheless I must journey today, tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish outside of Jerusalem.
On the day Jesus spoke on deliverance from our hopeless state, threats to kill Him because of that message came. Yet Jesus went on doing good and teaching while setting men free, knowing He was headed toward a cruel death on a tree - cursed as it was written - all to set us free in taking our deserved punishment. He did not run from this death, but into and through it for us.
Monday, May 2, 2016
Narrow Gate is Christ Alone
Luke 13:23-24, 29-30
23 Then one said to Him, “Lord, are there few who are saved?” And He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. ... 29 They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30 And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.”
Not everyone is delivered from due judgment on their sin. The way is very narrow to God and His kingdom - it is only entered through His Son, Jesus the Christ. But those chosen and allowed are from every county and people of the world, not one race or nation. Those called last are no worse than those in the beginning when Jesus walked the earth. Enter the narrow gate.
23 Then one said to Him, “Lord, are there few who are saved?” And He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. ... 29 They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30 And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.”
Not everyone is delivered from due judgment on their sin. The way is very narrow to God and His kingdom - it is only entered through His Son, Jesus the Christ. But those chosen and allowed are from every county and people of the world, not one race or nation. Those called last are no worse than those in the beginning when Jesus walked the earth. Enter the narrow gate.
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Kingdom Expanding as Yeast
Luke 13:20-21
20 And again He said, “To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.”
The already and the not yet - the kingdom grows within us as yeast fills dough and it rises to become more what it started as. Yet the kingdom is not yet fully come until Jesus returns, completes judgement, and restores all things. So we leaven ourselves and each other as we grow as a body closer to that day, hopeful of the softening for hearts hardened by sin so we learn love in truth.
20 And again He said, “To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.”
The already and the not yet - the kingdom grows within us as yeast fills dough and it rises to become more what it started as. Yet the kingdom is not yet fully come until Jesus returns, completes judgement, and restores all things. So we leaven ourselves and each other as we grow as a body closer to that day, hopeful of the softening for hearts hardened by sin so we learn love in truth.
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Mustard Seed of Implanted Faith
Luke 13:18-19
18 Then He said, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and put in his garden; and it grew and became a large tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches.”
God's word grows in us to make us like Christ over our new lives, but it also brings good news to change others around us. So God's kingdom is built one soul at a time until we all who are called out as body and bride are before Him in the new heaven and earth, standing in His presence apart from our sin and the fallen world we brought about by it. What wonder this kingdom will grow into until that day! And what glorious wonders with Him...
18 Then He said, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and put in his garden; and it grew and became a large tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches.”
God's word grows in us to make us like Christ over our new lives, but it also brings good news to change others around us. So God's kingdom is built one soul at a time until we all who are called out as body and bride are before Him in the new heaven and earth, standing in His presence apart from our sin and the fallen world we brought about by it. What wonder this kingdom will grow into until that day! And what glorious wonders with Him...
Friday, April 29, 2016
Freed to Rest in Christ's Work
Luke 13:14-17
14 But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 The Lord then answered him and said, “Hypocrite! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it? 16 So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?” 17 And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him.
Resting from our works to do God's. The sabbath was made for us; we were not made for it, so it does not rule over doing good and giving Him glory. When we do such good and forego our rest, it should put to shame those who attack or judge...
14 But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 The Lord then answered him and said, “Hypocrite! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it? 16 So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?” 17 And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him.
Resting from our works to do God's. The sabbath was made for us; we were not made for it, so it does not rule over doing good and giving Him glory. When we do such good and forego our rest, it should put to shame those who attack or judge...
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Fruit of Changed Life
Luke 13:6-9
6 He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ 8 But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. 9 And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’ ”
God looks for fruit of repentance and of a changed life. We receive many chances as He draws us to Himself over the years, but there must be tended to in order to grow deep enough to come to fruition. Likewise, once His we need to rely on grace by faith to feed and cultivate those things that allow fruit bearing. Do we?
6 He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ 8 But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. 9 And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’ ”
God looks for fruit of repentance and of a changed life. We receive many chances as He draws us to Himself over the years, but there must be tended to in order to grow deep enough to come to fruition. Likewise, once His we need to rely on grace by faith to feed and cultivate those things that allow fruit bearing. Do we?
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Sinners, Repent or Perish
Luke 13:2-5
2 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? 3 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”
We are all sinners, none born good nor capable of doing good to the level we were made to be. If we suffer catastrophe or live a relatively quiet life, the one thing we have in common is the need to repent, to turn from our sin and turn to the one who took our sentence of guilt and paid our legal price of a death sentence - Jesus Christ. No attempts of good deeds or church membership can help us. We all come short in our eternal crimes and need this mediator to be set free and live.
2 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? 3 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”
We are all sinners, none born good nor capable of doing good to the level we were made to be. If we suffer catastrophe or live a relatively quiet life, the one thing we have in common is the need to repent, to turn from our sin and turn to the one who took our sentence of guilt and paid our legal price of a death sentence - Jesus Christ. No attempts of good deeds or church membership can help us. We all come short in our eternal crimes and need this mediator to be set free and live.
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Reconciliation
Luke 12:57-59
57 “Yes, and why, even of yourselves, do you not judge what is right? 58 When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, make every effort along the way to settle with him, lest he drag you to the judge, the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. 59 I tell you, you shall not depart from there till you have paid the very last mite.”
Not only do we fail to judge the times, we miss the judgment to come as we judge each other even in lawsuits instead of working out the problems with each other. If we do this with each other, how much more do we need reconciliation with the God we have wronged? Settling with our Father through His Son is the only way to avoid eternal imprisonment, and settling with each other is also needed for the kingdom.
57 “Yes, and why, even of yourselves, do you not judge what is right? 58 When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, make every effort along the way to settle with him, lest he drag you to the judge, the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. 59 I tell you, you shall not depart from there till you have paid the very last mite.”
Not only do we fail to judge the times, we miss the judgment to come as we judge each other even in lawsuits instead of working out the problems with each other. If we do this with each other, how much more do we need reconciliation with the God we have wronged? Settling with our Father through His Son is the only way to avoid eternal imprisonment, and settling with each other is also needed for the kingdom.
Monday, April 25, 2016
Discerning the Times
Luke 12:54-56
54 Then He also said to the multitudes, “Whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is. 55 And when you see the south wind blow, you say, “There will be hot weather’; and there is. 56 Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?
Why do many seem to be weather prediction experts, yet fail to see the times around us? There are signs of increasing lawlessness and declining morality and civility, but no grand speeches explaining what will happen tomorrow or next week. Global warming fuels discussions, but God's right to rule and judge His creation and the consequences of sin we reap daily do not. Nor do these times seem to allow speaking of the cure for the global heart cooling - good news of a deliver in Jesus.
54 Then He also said to the multitudes, “Whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is. 55 And when you see the south wind blow, you say, “There will be hot weather’; and there is. 56 Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?
Why do many seem to be weather prediction experts, yet fail to see the times around us? There are signs of increasing lawlessness and declining morality and civility, but no grand speeches explaining what will happen tomorrow or next week. Global warming fuels discussions, but God's right to rule and judge His creation and the consequences of sin we reap daily do not. Nor do these times seem to allow speaking of the cure for the global heart cooling - good news of a deliver in Jesus.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
House Divided
Luke 12:51-53
51 Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. 52 For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. 53 Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
When people come to Christ, often their families do not all do so, causing division. The peace Jesus brought is not a world where everyone gets along, but peace between individuals and the God they are reconciled with; then some peace with others who have been also made new in Christ (there is a unity among true believers, but it is not perfect). So we find peace with God.
51 Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. 52 For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. 53 Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
When people come to Christ, often their families do not all do so, causing division. The peace Jesus brought is not a world where everyone gets along, but peace between individuals and the God they are reconciled with; then some peace with others who have been also made new in Christ (there is a unity among true believers, but it is not perfect). So we find peace with God.
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Accountability
Luke 12:45-48
45 But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, 46 the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.
We are accountable for all God gives, and especially how we use our gifts for others. If we do not love others in action we do not love God, and will answer for it. As this parable says, it depends on if we willingly sin against others or knew and just neglected to do what is right, or if we really did not know fully and still did wrong. God sees our hearts and actions, and rewards accordingly. We are not the judge who sentences, but must also know grace and mercy that delivers us, yet understand accountability is written in each of our books.
45 But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, 46 the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.
We are accountable for all God gives, and especially how we use our gifts for others. If we do not love others in action we do not love God, and will answer for it. As this parable says, it depends on if we willingly sin against others or knew and just neglected to do what is right, or if we really did not know fully and still did wrong. God sees our hearts and actions, and rewards accordingly. We are not the judge who sentences, but must also know grace and mercy that delivers us, yet understand accountability is written in each of our books.
Friday, April 22, 2016
Watch and Be Ready!
Luke 12:38-40
38 And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. 39 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 40 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Are you ready? Jesus told us to constantly watch while we do the things we should, protecting the house - much like protecting this house we are as a body and as individuals. By being holy as He is, by telling of the hope in us, so we please the bridegroom and deter thieves. We do not know when the Lord will be back, but the real motivation should be to please Him every day out of love and thankfulness for buying us at such a great price!
38 And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. 39 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 40 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Are you ready? Jesus told us to constantly watch while we do the things we should, protecting the house - much like protecting this house we are as a body and as individuals. By being holy as He is, by telling of the hope in us, so we please the bridegroom and deter thieves. We do not know when the Lord will be back, but the real motivation should be to please Him every day out of love and thankfulness for buying us at such a great price!
Thursday, April 21, 2016
Watchful Servants
Luke 12:35-37
35 “Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; 36 and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. 37 Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.
As the bride of Jesus Christ we must be ready for His return, just as this wedding ceremony had the servants wait expectantly and ready. They watched, waited, and ended up being served and fed by their master as a reward for their devotion. So must we be until Christ returns for us - except we are both servants and His bride, the body of changed believers. Are we ready?
35 “Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; 36 and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. 37 Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.
As the bride of Jesus Christ we must be ready for His return, just as this wedding ceremony had the servants wait expectantly and ready. They watched, waited, and ended up being served and fed by their master as a reward for their devotion. So must we be until Christ returns for us - except we are both servants and His bride, the body of changed believers. Are we ready?
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Treasure Reveals Our Heart
Luke 12:32-34
32 “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
God wants to give us the eternal kingdom in His presence forevermore. So why hold so tightly to riches that we cannot take with us? Our hearts should be aimed at Jesus Christ to serve and run after God's prize of the upward calling in Christ by the gospel that cannot be stolen and never falls apart over time, let alone in eternity.
32 “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
God wants to give us the eternal kingdom in His presence forevermore. So why hold so tightly to riches that we cannot take with us? Our hearts should be aimed at Jesus Christ to serve and run after God's prize of the upward calling in Christ by the gospel that cannot be stolen and never falls apart over time, let alone in eternity.
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Trusting, Not Anxious
Luke 12:29
“And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. 30 For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.
Don't worry, be content. By faith we find joy above transitory happiness, knowing God will provide our daily needs - He knows what we require. What this frees us to do is to seek His kingdom, to put our mind, life, and strength into seeking what He told us is good and right, and to do those things that last through the grave into eternity. By ceasing worry and living by faith we find continued peace with and provision of God.
“And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. 30 For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.
Don't worry, be content. By faith we find joy above transitory happiness, knowing God will provide our daily needs - He knows what we require. What this frees us to do is to seek His kingdom, to put our mind, life, and strength into seeking what He told us is good and right, and to do those things that last through the grave into eternity. By ceasing worry and living by faith we find continued peace with and provision of God.
Monday, April 18, 2016
Worry or Faith?
Luke 12:25-28
25 And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 26 If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?
Being anxious by worrying about having what we need cannot make us grow, only feel a wanting for more. By seeing God's hand to care for all this world around us we can rest fully in that care for us made in His image. So, we trust, using faith He gives with assurance of His grace and it's contentment because of who He is and who we are in Christ. We are so much more than birds and plants.
25 And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 26 If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?
Being anxious by worrying about having what we need cannot make us grow, only feel a wanting for more. By seeing God's hand to care for all this world around us we can rest fully in that care for us made in His image. So, we trust, using faith He gives with assurance of His grace and it's contentment because of who He is and who we are in Christ. We are so much more than birds and plants.
Saturday, April 16, 2016
He Values Us Highly
Luke 12:22-24
22 Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds?
Do we trust fully in a sovereign God who works for good in those He has called? If so, why be anxious for the next meal or even clothes to wear? Jesus pointed to the birds that He provides for - they don't work to plant and harvest, only having to expend effort to get the food provided already. That must be Faith's mindset and outworking in us even more, for we are made in His image - to be called, chosen, and faithful.
22 Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds?
Do we trust fully in a sovereign God who works for good in those He has called? If so, why be anxious for the next meal or even clothes to wear? Jesus pointed to the birds that He provides for - they don't work to plant and harvest, only having to expend effort to get the food provided already. That must be Faith's mindset and outworking in us even more, for we are made in His image - to be called, chosen, and faithful.
Friday, April 15, 2016
Bigger Barns or Eternal Riches?
Luke 12:16-21
16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” ’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
Storing up treasures in heaven is eternal investment. Gaining more and neglecting your soul has eternal penalties. So we must be rich toward God above our own collections in storage for temporal benefits. What lasts is loving God and others, collecting grace in showing mercy and love with good news of that which lasts.
16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” ’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
Storing up treasures in heaven is eternal investment. Gaining more and neglecting your soul has eternal penalties. So we must be rich toward God above our own collections in storage for temporal benefits. What lasts is loving God and others, collecting grace in showing mercy and love with good news of that which lasts.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Wanting Things
Luke 12:13-15
13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
We should not fight over and focus on what we will get when our parents die, but on what we will get when we each die. Our lives are not in the visible, but the intangible - the things Jesus spoke of as the kingdom. Do we love God first and in our words and actions love others as we love ourselves? Do we deal with each other by the golden rule, or do we seek only to get more for ourselves at any cost? God tells us to watch out and to count the cost.
13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
We should not fight over and focus on what we will get when our parents die, but on what we will get when we each die. Our lives are not in the visible, but the intangible - the things Jesus spoke of as the kingdom. Do we love God first and in our words and actions love others as we love ourselves? Do we deal with each other by the golden rule, or do we seek only to get more for ourselves at any cost? God tells us to watch out and to count the cost.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Given Words for Defense
Luke 12:11-12
11 “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. 12 For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”
Since we are not to deny the God who bought us at the price of His Son because of fear, so should we also not fear what to say or how we will find the words when bearing witness to the truth of this good news to rulers as well as to adversaries. God lives within us; that presence is what has made us renewed in the first place. So we trust in the sovereign Lord to move our mind and tongue and not rely on our own wisdom.
11 “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. 12 For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”
Since we are not to deny the God who bought us at the price of His Son because of fear, so should we also not fear what to say or how we will find the words when bearing witness to the truth of this good news to rulers as well as to adversaries. God lives within us; that presence is what has made us renewed in the first place. So we trust in the sovereign Lord to move our mind and tongue and not rely on our own wisdom.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Confession and Blasphemy
Luke 12:8-10
8 “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. 9 But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10 “And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
If we are His, we admit it by telling others; if we deny Jesus, we face that before God. If we say God's work is not by His work and Spirit, we slander God in His work as these did by not only saying evil against Jesus, but by the power and authority of God in the man. Even after being delivered and made new, we must give God the credit - honor and glory for His work in Christ and in us. But we must also test what is said to be His Spirit and discern what is man in disguise.
8 “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. 9 But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10 “And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
If we are His, we admit it by telling others; if we deny Jesus, we face that before God. If we say God's work is not by His work and Spirit, we slander God in His work as these did by not only saying evil against Jesus, but by the power and authority of God in the man. Even after being delivered and made new, we must give God the credit - honor and glory for His work in Christ and in us. But we must also test what is said to be His Spirit and discern what is man in disguise.
Monday, April 11, 2016
Fear and Rest
Luke 12:4-7
4 “And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him! 6 “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
We are to fear God because our lives are in His hands, not men or the devil. But because God offers a certain hope in Jesus Christ, we who are in Him need no longer fear eternal and just punishment, but know we are never forgotten. He knows us and crews for us, so our fear of Him now is awe and trembling in that holy presence, but not for hell anymore. This is our concrete hope.
4 “And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him! 6 “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
We are to fear God because our lives are in His hands, not men or the devil. But because God offers a certain hope in Jesus Christ, we who are in Him need no longer fear eternal and just punishment, but know we are never forgotten. He knows us and crews for us, so our fear of Him now is awe and trembling in that holy presence, but not for hell anymore. This is our concrete hope.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Hypocritical Yeast
Luke 12:1-3
1 In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops.
When the accusers were done, Jesus warned His followers to watch out for hypocrisy in their own lives. He warned them that in the end they cannot hide the thoughts and intents of their hearts, which God's word reveals now and the rest when we die and stand before Him. What words we say and deeds we do will all be seen for what they are - so we must live rightly and transparently before God and man.
1 In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops.
When the accusers were done, Jesus warned His followers to watch out for hypocrisy in their own lives. He warned them that in the end they cannot hide the thoughts and intents of their hearts, which God's word reveals now and the rest when we die and stand before Him. What words we say and deeds we do will all be seen for what they are - so we must live rightly and transparently before God and man.
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Opposition to Christ
Luke 11:53-54
53 And as He said these things to them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, 54 lying in wait for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him.
People set against God still pursue ways to try to second guess what God says in order to find what may be made into a fault. They seek to accuse God because He accuses them by His words into their conscience with the sheer fact of their guilt. So they blame God and deny Christ, lying in wait to find fault as they ignore their own that is the real issue. So is fallen man. We who know Him must not lose sight of the trustworthiness and holiness of God.
53 And as He said these things to them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, 54 lying in wait for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him.
People set against God still pursue ways to try to second guess what God says in order to find what may be made into a fault. They seek to accuse God because He accuses them by His words into their conscience with the sheer fact of their guilt. So they blame God and deny Christ, lying in wait to find fault as they ignore their own that is the real issue. So is fallen man. We who know Him must not lose sight of the trustworthiness and holiness of God.
Friday, April 8, 2016
Ignorance and Disobedience
Luke 11:45-46, 52
45 Then one of the lawyers answered and said to Him, “Teacher, by saying these things You reproach us also.” 46 And He said, “Woe to you also, lawyers! For you load men with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not touch the burdens with one of your fingers. .. 52 “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge. You did not enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered.”
Experts in religious law, somewhat like today's theology professors or church denomination leaders, here were accused of mandating others do what they themselves felt above lifting a finger to do. They were also accused of keeping people ignorant to keep others from God along with themselves because of their own religious rules that were not even God's. History shows that has continued. We must not. To worship and serve in spirit and in truth by God's standards, not our made up ones, we must rightly cut God's word!
45 Then one of the lawyers answered and said to Him, “Teacher, by saying these things You reproach us also.” 46 And He said, “Woe to you also, lawyers! For you load men with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not touch the burdens with one of your fingers. .. 52 “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge. You did not enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered.”
Experts in religious law, somewhat like today's theology professors or church denomination leaders, here were accused of mandating others do what they themselves felt above lifting a finger to do. They were also accused of keeping people ignorant to keep others from God along with themselves because of their own religious rules that were not even God's. History shows that has continued. We must not. To worship and serve in spirit and in truth by God's standards, not our made up ones, we must rightly cut God's word!
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Looking for the Best Seat
Luke 11:42-44
42 “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 43 Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 44 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.”
In what we call worship and religious acts to please God, how easy it is to fall in this trap of missing the mark by injustice or lack of love shown to others. We can look for the best place and greet the right (or "wrong") people for appearances. Jesus said this is hypocrisy, like spiritual dead men walking - so dead to God that others may pass over your grave unaware. God wants justice tempered by mercy, and love for God and others in spirit and truth.
42 “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 43 Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 44 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.”
In what we call worship and religious acts to please God, how easy it is to fall in this trap of missing the mark by injustice or lack of love shown to others. We can look for the best place and greet the right (or "wrong") people for appearances. Jesus said this is hypocrisy, like spiritual dead men walking - so dead to God that others may pass over your grave unaware. God wants justice tempered by mercy, and love for God and others in spirit and truth.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Ceremonial Washing
Luke 11:38-41
38 When the Pharisee saw it, he marveled that He had not first washed before dinner. 39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness. 40 Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41 But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you.
How easily ceremony and tradition wash away the thoughts and intents of the heart! Let us not make the same mistake of looking only at the externals at the expense of where we stand with God and man - in that order. Loving others by meeting needs with the right motive of loving others as ourselves leads to a clean heart and true religion as James says. If we love God, we love others in deed and not for our own acclaim or reward.
38 When the Pharisee saw it, he marveled that He had not first washed before dinner. 39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness. 40 Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41 But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you.
How easily ceremony and tradition wash away the thoughts and intents of the heart! Let us not make the same mistake of looking only at the externals at the expense of where we stand with God and man - in that order. Loving others by meeting needs with the right motive of loving others as ourselves leads to a clean heart and true religion as James says. If we love God, we love others in deed and not for our own acclaim or reward.
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Light and Darkness
Luke 11:33-36
33 “No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light. 34 The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness. 35 Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, the whole body will be full of light, as when the bright shining of a lamp gives you light.”
If the goodness of God in the face of Jesus Christ is in is, then we cannot hide it from others - they will see the difference as does God. So we are by God's work in us to put off works of darkness and put on those pleasing to Him, of light. So we shine as stars and are used to bring the light of righteousness to others (Daniel 12:3). Is our eye good, with light behind it?
33 “No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light. 34 The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness. 35 Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, the whole body will be full of light, as when the bright shining of a lamp gives you light.”
If the goodness of God in the face of Jesus Christ is in is, then we cannot hide it from others - they will see the difference as does God. So we are by God's work in us to put off works of darkness and put on those pleasing to Him, of light. So we shine as stars and are used to bring the light of righteousness to others (Daniel 12:3). Is our eye good, with light behind it?
Monday, April 4, 2016
Wisdom and Repentance
Luke 11:31-32
31 The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here.
When seeking wisdom, how many look to men instead of God? When hearing of God's final judgment, how many turn from sin to Him? Jesus made it clear that God came to men as one of us to tell us these things personally. Even though we listen to the wisest men who ever lived (more than our geniuses, scientists, or philosophers), Jesus is far greater. Even corrupt and immoral Nineveh repented. Yet men still scoff at and argue with their creator and master.
31 The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here.
When seeking wisdom, how many look to men instead of God? When hearing of God's final judgment, how many turn from sin to Him? Jesus made it clear that God came to men as one of us to tell us these things personally. Even though we listen to the wisest men who ever lived (more than our geniuses, scientists, or philosophers), Jesus is far greater. Even corrupt and immoral Nineveh repented. Yet men still scoff at and argue with their creator and master.
Sunday, April 3, 2016
Evil Sign Seeking
Luke 11:29-30
29 And while the crowds were thickly gathered together, He began to say, “This is an evil generation. It seeks a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so also the Son of Man will be to this generation.
Instead of looking for the miracles Jesus could do, the people should have been listening to the words of repentance and faith that lead to never ending life in the Son of God and man. The sign then given was like Jonah for repentance, except the 3 days with Jesus were in the grave (not a fish) before coming to life again. The just will live by faith - not only find eternal life, but live in a daily walk by that same grace by faith with daily repentance (1 John 1:9).
29 And while the crowds were thickly gathered together, He began to say, “This is an evil generation. It seeks a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so also the Son of Man will be to this generation.
Instead of looking for the miracles Jesus could do, the people should have been listening to the words of repentance and faith that lead to never ending life in the Son of God and man. The sign then given was like Jonah for repentance, except the 3 days with Jesus were in the grave (not a fish) before coming to life again. The just will live by faith - not only find eternal life, but live in a daily walk by that same grace by faith with daily repentance (1 John 1:9).
Friday, April 1, 2016
Blessed Who Hear and Do
Luke 11:27-28
27 And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” 28 But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
It is not the highest honor we owe to our families, but to have ears to hear and eyes to see from the heart all God tells us - with a mindset of obedience out of love to the one who bought us at such a price. We honor God (without leaving lesser honors undone) and that makes us blessed. We worship God in Christ and not His mother or ours; obeying God trumps all.
27 And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” 28 But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
It is not the highest honor we owe to our families, but to have ears to hear and eyes to see from the heart all God tells us - with a mindset of obedience out of love to the one who bought us at such a price. We honor God (without leaving lesser honors undone) and that makes us blessed. We worship God in Christ and not His mother or ours; obeying God trumps all.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Put Off, Put On!
Luke 11:24-26
24 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25 And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.”
If we are not with God in Christ, then we are overpowered and overtaken by unseen evil; our fleeting good works cannot secure us from the evil one if we are apart from Jesus. If we are in Christ then we must still put on godliness after putting off sinful habits in word, deed, and thoughts. For if we only stop doing wrong and neglect to fill the void with good, we are overtaken by sin yet again.
24 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25 And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.”
If we are not with God in Christ, then we are overpowered and overtaken by unseen evil; our fleeting good works cannot secure us from the evil one if we are apart from Jesus. If we are in Christ then we must still put on godliness after putting off sinful habits in word, deed, and thoughts. For if we only stop doing wrong and neglect to fill the void with good, we are overtaken by sin yet again.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
With the Finger of God
Luke 11:20-23
20 But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace. 22 But when a stronger than he comes upon him and overcomes him, he takes from him all his armor in which he trusted, and divides his spoils. 23 He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.
When Jesus did impossible things to show the kingdom of God was there in Himself, He was accused of doing the devil's work. Jesus explained that He had taken away the given authority of Satan because He did God's work - and action was required to stand with Him against the evil. Inaction of belief is opposition to Jesus and the kingdom of God, and scatters the ones not in union with Him.
20 But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace. 22 But when a stronger than he comes upon him and overcomes him, he takes from him all his armor in which he trusted, and divides his spoils. 23 He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.
When Jesus did impossible things to show the kingdom of God was there in Himself, He was accused of doing the devil's work. Jesus explained that He had taken away the given authority of Satan because He did God's work - and action was required to stand with Him against the evil. Inaction of belief is opposition to Jesus and the kingdom of God, and scatters the ones not in union with Him.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Ask, Seek, Knock (A.S.K.)
Luke 11:9-13
9 “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
Persistence in prayer leads ultimately to being reborn, renewed with God living in us as a new heart was told of by Ezekiel. Persistence leads us to an open door, grace received, and what we look for to be found. So we continue to ask, seek, and knock for each day's grace as well. God is a good Father, and does not answer with lesser gifts.
9 “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
Persistence in prayer leads ultimately to being reborn, renewed with God living in us as a new heart was told of by Ezekiel. Persistence leads us to an open door, grace received, and what we look for to be found. So we continue to ask, seek, and knock for each day's grace as well. God is a good Father, and does not answer with lesser gifts.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Persistence
Luke 11:5-8
5 And He said to them, “Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7 and he will answer from within and say, “Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you’? 8 I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs.
Friendship may not motivate us to inconvenience ourselves to help, but persistence can influence us to help as we see the need must be real and pressing. So God teaches us to persist in prayer, asking and not giving up. If the need is real, He knows, and answers when seeing our persistent pleading relies on His grace for fulfillment.
5 And He said to them, “Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7 and he will answer from within and say, “Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you’? 8 I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs.
Friendship may not motivate us to inconvenience ourselves to help, but persistence can influence us to help as we see the need must be real and pressing. So God teaches us to persist in prayer, asking and not giving up. If the need is real, He knows, and answers when seeing our persistent pleading relies on His grace for fulfillment.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Ask and Trust God
Luke 11:3-4
3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.”
We should both ask and trust God to provide what we really need (essentials) every day. And before we begin asking forgiveness from Him, we need to clear the slate with others, not holding grudges or retaliating in words or actions. How do we want God to deal with us? And we pray for guidance away from what tempts us, yet do our part to avoid the obvious traps set by our adversary. So should we pray.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.”
We should both ask and trust God to provide what we really need (essentials) every day. And before we begin asking forgiveness from Him, we need to clear the slate with others, not holding grudges or retaliating in words or actions. How do we want God to deal with us? And we pray for guidance away from what tempts us, yet do our part to avoid the obvious traps set by our adversary. So should we pray.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Pattern of Prayer that Glorifies
Luke 11:2
So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.
Prayer is to our Father in heaven - we must know Him through the Son first to have the required relationship to have a listening ear. We who are His should begin with acknowledging His holiness and glorify Him. Then we should ask for His will, not our desires, to come to pass. Then His sovereign reign and coming kingdom where sin is punished and grace is given in a renewed creation.
So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.
Prayer is to our Father in heaven - we must know Him through the Son first to have the required relationship to have a listening ear. We who are His should begin with acknowledging His holiness and glorify Him. Then we should ask for His will, not our desires, to come to pass. Then His sovereign reign and coming kingdom where sin is punished and grace is given in a renewed creation.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Teach Us To Pray, Lord
Luke 11:1
Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
How did John teach his disciples to pray? There is no record of it, but what John taught was to point others to Jesus. So John may have taught them to pray for forgiveness in a repentant spirit and to be ready for the Messiah. But Jesus then taught them to address God as their Father as well, and to honor and glorify Him in trust and obedience out of love. This was not as John taught, yet it was a fulfillment of all Scripture and what John looked forward to. So Jesus taught us how (not the exact words of 'what') to speak with God.
Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
How did John teach his disciples to pray? There is no record of it, but what John taught was to point others to Jesus. So John may have taught them to pray for forgiveness in a repentant spirit and to be ready for the Messiah. But Jesus then taught them to address God as their Father as well, and to honor and glorify Him in trust and obedience out of love. This was not as John taught, yet it was a fulfillment of all Scripture and what John looked forward to. So Jesus taught us how (not the exact words of 'what') to speak with God.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Choose to Hear God
Luke 10:39-42
39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” 41 And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Do we take time to build on what lasts forever, hearing and taking heed to all God says? Or are we caught up in doing good for works' sake alone or in part? We serve God first by knowing Him and then what we should do and how we must live - from His word. The daily sitting at our Lord's feet while we read, study, memorize, and meditate on all He told us is the foundation of our eternity.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” 41 And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Do we take time to build on what lasts forever, hearing and taking heed to all God says? Or are we caught up in doing good for works' sake alone or in part? We serve God first by knowing Him and then what we should do and how we must live - from His word. The daily sitting at our Lord's feet while we read, study, memorize, and meditate on all He told us is the foundation of our eternity.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Who is My Neighbor?
Luke 10:29-37
29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” 37 And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
Our example here is to love our neighbor by action, helping those in need. We do not need to justify inaction by judgement or prejudice, but see the real need and do what we are able in order to show mercy and grace. This is especially true of victims as in this passage. May God help us to go and do likewise, and not avoid by walking hurriedly away from a safe distance on the other side of the road of life.
29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” 37 And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
Our example here is to love our neighbor by action, helping those in need. We do not need to justify inaction by judgement or prejudice, but see the real need and do what we are able in order to show mercy and grace. This is especially true of victims as in this passage. May God help us to go and do likewise, and not avoid by walking hurriedly away from a safe distance on the other side of the road of life.
Monday, March 21, 2016
Do This and Live
Luke 10:25-28
25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” 27 So he answered and said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 28 And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”
These two commands would lead to eternal life if it was possible to love both God and man completely. Unfortunately, we all are born with sin running in our veins that has been passed down like spiritual DNA, and so all fall short of God's standard of perfection. But Jesus Christ did live perfectly and did love absolutely because He was God and man. Thus He took our sentence for sin and was tried and put to death on our behalf - and rose from death to life. By accepting these truths we come to Him for new and eternal life. This is Easter's good news.
25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” 27 So he answered and said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 28 And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”
These two commands would lead to eternal life if it was possible to love both God and man completely. Unfortunately, we all are born with sin running in our veins that has been passed down like spiritual DNA, and so all fall short of God's standard of perfection. But Jesus Christ did live perfectly and did love absolutely because He was God and man. Thus He took our sentence for sin and was tried and put to death on our behalf - and rose from death to life. By accepting these truths we come to Him for new and eternal life. This is Easter's good news.
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Regenerating Faith is Gift
Luke 10:21-24
21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 22 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” 23 Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; 24 for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”
The things revealed in a new birth are like a new set of eyes; our wisdom and learning always fall short, and as little children eager to hear we come through God's Son to see His face. God chose the foolishness of the cross to put our sin to death and give us life now and forever with His very presence within - so we see what rulers and religious leaders alike long to glimpse. This is grace in mercy, acquitted and given a gift undeserved with punishment taken for us - the good news.
21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 22 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” 23 Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; 24 for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”
The things revealed in a new birth are like a new set of eyes; our wisdom and learning always fall short, and as little children eager to hear we come through God's Son to see His face. God chose the foolishness of the cross to put our sin to death and give us life now and forever with His very presence within - so we see what rulers and religious leaders alike long to glimpse. This is grace in mercy, acquitted and given a gift undeserved with punishment taken for us - the good news.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Names Written in Heaven
Luke 10:17-20
17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
Rejoicing in Christ is being eternally grateful for our reconciliation to our Father through the unwarranted and undeserved punishment to death of His Son for us. Because my name is written in His book, I rejoice, no matter what things I am able to do in His strength and in His name here.
17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
Rejoicing in Christ is being eternally grateful for our reconciliation to our Father through the unwarranted and undeserved punishment to death of His Son for us. Because my name is written in His book, I rejoice, no matter what things I am able to do in His strength and in His name here.
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Salvation Only Through Christ
Luke 10:13-16
13 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 16 He who hears you hears Me, he who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me.”
Many will hear or see what God can do as Christ, yet still reject Him, choosing their own faulty reasoning and desires over their creator. Many are called, few chosen, and the heart of man without God's work in the heart will remain set on self accomplishment and self reliance. Until we rely on God and trust He has done it all, we cannot and will not find reconciliation with Him and peace in our eternal souls.
13 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 16 He who hears you hears Me, he who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me.”
Many will hear or see what God can do as Christ, yet still reject Him, choosing their own faulty reasoning and desires over their creator. Many are called, few chosen, and the heart of man without God's work in the heart will remain set on self accomplishment and self reliance. Until we rely on God and trust He has done it all, we cannot and will not find reconciliation with Him and peace in our eternal souls.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Wipe off Dust of Rejection
Luke 10:9-12
9 And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.’ 12 But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for that city.
This may not be our approach to those who refuse to listen to the gospel, but important principles apply. There is a point at which their refusal leads us to move on to those who have an ear to hear, for we cannot force the truth where no work of God is active in the listener. They individually are held accountable on the day they stand before our God, and our responsibility is to bear witness of the truth and allow God to convict of sin, righteousness, and judgment.
9 And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.’ 12 But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for that city.
This may not be our approach to those who refuse to listen to the gospel, but important principles apply. There is a point at which their refusal leads us to move on to those who have an ear to hear, for we cannot force the truth where no work of God is active in the listener. They individually are held accountable on the day they stand before our God, and our responsibility is to bear witness of the truth and allow God to convict of sin, righteousness, and judgment.
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Lambs among Wolves
Luke 10:3-6
3 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. 4 Carry neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road. 5 But whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ 6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you.
We should not be out for gain from the gospel, but trust God to use others to meet our needs as Paul also wrote about. If they will not feed and shelter the ones bringing life's sustenance in spiritual things, whether traveling or in one then will peace be among them? This is not a mandate, but a good example to follow.
3 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. 4 Carry neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road. 5 But whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ 6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you.
We should not be out for gain from the gospel, but trust God to use others to meet our needs as Paul also wrote about. If they will not feed and shelter the ones bringing life's sustenance in spiritual things, whether traveling or in one then will peace be among them? This is not a mandate, but a good example to follow.
Monday, March 14, 2016
Laborers in Great Harvest
Luke 10:1-2
1 After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. 2 Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.
After Jesus told those who wanted to follow Him to first count the cost of it, He sent out the disciples to labor in the fields with the news of the kingdom. They were told a rich harvest needed men to venture forth into the people to begin reaping. We now have the gospel since Jesus fulfilled all and it has been laid out more fully to know and make Him known. So we pray for workers to plant, water, and harvest, and do so ourselves.
1 After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. 2 Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.
After Jesus told those who wanted to follow Him to first count the cost of it, He sent out the disciples to labor in the fields with the news of the kingdom. They were told a rich harvest needed men to venture forth into the people to begin reaping. We now have the gospel since Jesus fulfilled all and it has been laid out more fully to know and make Him known. So we pray for workers to plant, water, and harvest, and do so ourselves.
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Don't Look Back!
Luke 9:61-62
61 And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.” 62 But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Another aspect of following Christ is that we must always look forward, not back at either past failures or successes, except to be humbled by and learn from them. Once we begin God's work in following to be conformed to Christ, we cannot but move forward. That is where we aim toward and walk or run on to, His kingdom. This one thing I do...
61 And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.” 62 But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Another aspect of following Christ is that we must always look forward, not back at either past failures or successes, except to be humbled by and learn from them. Once we begin God's work in following to be conformed to Christ, we cannot but move forward. That is where we aim toward and walk or run on to, His kingdom. This one thing I do...
Friday, March 11, 2016
Go and Preach the Gospel!
Luke 9:57-60
57 Now it happened as they journeyed on the road, that someone said to Him, “Lord, I will follow You wherever You go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” 59 Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 60 Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.”
When we are drawn to follow Jesus, are we ready for the possibility of not having a house over our head or a permanent address? Could we be so about God's work that we miss taking care of elderly parents or even being unable to attend a funeral? We may not face these choices, but if we did, would we choose Jesus over comfort or family as many missionaries have over the years? Do we follow with that mindset?
57 Now it happened as they journeyed on the road, that someone said to Him, “Lord, I will follow You wherever You go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” 59 Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 60 Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.”
When we are drawn to follow Jesus, are we ready for the possibility of not having a house over our head or a permanent address? Could we be so about God's work that we miss taking care of elderly parents or even being unable to attend a funeral? We may not face these choices, but if we did, would we choose Jesus over comfort or family as many missionaries have over the years? Do we follow with that mindset?
Thursday, March 10, 2016
To Save, Not Destroy
Luke 9:54-56
54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.
When people reject Jesus and the gospel, we must not think they should get God's judgment immediately upon their heads. No, since we all are under His judgement already, we should care enough to let God continue to work in them to save them from that state and know His love in the mercy of the work done on the cross. Jesus came to bring life out of death, not death.
54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.
When people reject Jesus and the gospel, we must not think they should get God's judgment immediately upon their heads. No, since we all are under His judgement already, we should care enough to let God continue to work in them to save them from that state and know His love in the mercy of the work done on the cross. Jesus came to bring life out of death, not death.
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Face Set Like a Flint
Luke 9:51-53
51 Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, 52 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem.
Jesus had a plan to fulfill, so even the decision of a Samaritan town to reject Him was so He could keep moving to Jerusalem. He did not stop because there was a different destination, not because He was rejected. When God has a purpose, His sovereign will simply makes it happen no matter how we reason otherwise. As we follow Him, we must keep our face set to run that race to the goal while trusting Him for every twist and turn on the course.
51 Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, 52 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem.
Jesus had a plan to fulfill, so even the decision of a Samaritan town to reject Him was so He could keep moving to Jerusalem. He did not stop because there was a different destination, not because He was rejected. When God has a purpose, His sovereign will simply makes it happen no matter how we reason otherwise. As we follow Him, we must keep our face set to run that race to the goal while trusting Him for every twist and turn on the course.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Many On God's Side
Luke 9:49-50
49 Now John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.” 50 But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side.”
Just because someone does not attend the same church that we do, as long as they are following Jesus Christ in sound teaching and from a repentant and regenerated heart, we must not speak against the work they do for Him. Many of our different church bodies perform similar but different roles - as long as essential doctrines of God, Christ, the Spirit, man, and salvation align with the Bible, we work together.
49 Now John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.” 50 But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side.”
Just because someone does not attend the same church that we do, as long as they are following Jesus Christ in sound teaching and from a repentant and regenerated heart, we must not speak against the work they do for Him. Many of our different church bodies perform similar but different roles - as long as essential doctrines of God, Christ, the Spirit, man, and salvation align with the Bible, we work together.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Greatness in Receiving the Lowly
Luke 9:46-48
46 Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.”
Greatness in God's eyes is not about self, but serving others and their importance. Just as children were insignificant in Jesus' time, so He said to show them as valuable was to see His value. We serve God in serving others, seeing their value as God does. This servant humility is true greatness, not accolades from others.
46 Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.”
Greatness in God's eyes is not about self, but serving others and their importance. Just as children were insignificant in Jesus' time, so He said to show them as valuable was to see His value. We serve God in serving others, seeing their value as God does. This servant humility is true greatness, not accolades from others.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
Hidden and Revealed Majesty
Luke 9:43-45
43 And they were all amazed at the majesty of God. But while everyone marveled at all the things which Jesus did, He said to His disciples, 44 “Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying, and it was hidden from them so that they did not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this saying.
God's work can cause astonishment, but the hard parts are easy to gloss over as we either refuse to hear, or because some are beyond our growth (sanctification) at the time and may be missed. The disciples were told plainly that Jesus was about to be betrayed as the people around marveled at His work. How could this crowd do such things? So they could not grasp what they were told. Do we not grasp our own call to suffer and be rejected as His, focusing on the wonders He does in our lives instead?
43 And they were all amazed at the majesty of God. But while everyone marveled at all the things which Jesus did, He said to His disciples, 44 “Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying, and it was hidden from them so that they did not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this saying.
God's work can cause astonishment, but the hard parts are easy to gloss over as we either refuse to hear, or because some are beyond our growth (sanctification) at the time and may be missed. The disciples were told plainly that Jesus was about to be betrayed as the people around marveled at His work. How could this crowd do such things? So they could not grasp what they were told. Do we not grasp our own call to suffer and be rejected as His, focusing on the wonders He does in our lives instead?
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Faithless?
Luke 9:38-42
38 Suddenly a man from the multitude cried out, saying, “Teacher, I implore You, look on my son, for he is my only child. 40 So I implored Your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.” 41 Then Jesus answered and said, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” 42 And as he was still coming, the demon threw him down and convulsed him. Then Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the child, and gave him back to his father.
God took time to heal a man's only son when nobody could or believed it could be done. They did not have trusting belief, faith, that Jesus could - but the father did. So the Heavenly Father gave up and then raised up His only Son when we did not believe - and now opens our eyes to believe, trust His word and work, and be given new life in Christ. We are faithless but He is faithful!
38 Suddenly a man from the multitude cried out, saying, “Teacher, I implore You, look on my son, for he is my only child. 40 So I implored Your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.” 41 Then Jesus answered and said, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” 42 And as he was still coming, the demon threw him down and convulsed him. Then Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the child, and gave him back to his father.
God took time to heal a man's only son when nobody could or believed it could be done. They did not have trusting belief, faith, that Jesus could - but the father did. So the Heavenly Father gave up and then raised up His only Son when we did not believe - and now opens our eyes to believe, trust His word and work, and be given new life in Christ. We are faithless but He is faithful!
Friday, March 4, 2016
Beholding His Glory
Luke 9:29-32
29 As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. 30 And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him.
While praying with three trusted disciples, Jesus showed some of God's glory while they slept and He talked with dead prophets about His own death coming soon on a cross. When the disciples awoke, they fearfully spoke of setting up shrines to worship Him or commemorate the event. They missed the part of His suffering and death in our place. It is not the miracles or wonders of what Christ did, but in His glory what He did in our place on the cross, dying in our place to bring us to God and giving life in place of and out of death.
29 As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. 30 And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him.
While praying with three trusted disciples, Jesus showed some of God's glory while they slept and He talked with dead prophets about His own death coming soon on a cross. When the disciples awoke, they fearfully spoke of setting up shrines to worship Him or commemorate the event. They missed the part of His suffering and death in our place. It is not the miracles or wonders of what Christ did, but in His glory what He did in our place on the cross, dying in our place to bring us to God and giving life in place of and out of death.
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Lose Your Life to Find it
Luke 9:24-27
24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost 26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”
What is more important to gain than finding life unending in God's Son? How can we count our life and goals more important than the one who gives life to us? So we who are His can never be ashamed of that good news, never keeping quiet over what God said, and waiting in forgiven hope for Him to come back. Some disciples saw Jesus after this on the mountain, and they saw him rise from death. There was no shame after He gave them life and began living in them (as He now does with all who are reborn now).
24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost 26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”
What is more important to gain than finding life unending in God's Son? How can we count our life and goals more important than the one who gives life to us? So we who are His can never be ashamed of that good news, never keeping quiet over what God said, and waiting in forgiven hope for Him to come back. Some disciples saw Jesus after this on the mountain, and they saw him rise from death. There was no shame after He gave them life and began living in them (as He now does with all who are reborn now).
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Rejected and Raised to Follow
Luke 9:21-23
21 And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.” 23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
Being the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus said He would suffer, be rejected by religious leaders, be killed (on a cross), and then come back to life from death. If we are to follow Him, we go where He went. This means we suffer and are rejected for the truth as we head toward willing sacrificial death for His sake - but also partake of life unending beginning now and into eternity. Truly the sufferings of the present are as nothing than the far greater to come. So we deny satisfying what we want from life to lay it down for Him and others to know.
21 And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.” 23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
Being the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus said He would suffer, be rejected by religious leaders, be killed (on a cross), and then come back to life from death. If we are to follow Him, we go where He went. This means we suffer and are rejected for the truth as we head toward willing sacrificial death for His sake - but also partake of life unending beginning now and into eternity. Truly the sufferings of the present are as nothing than the far greater to come. So we deny satisfying what we want from life to lay it down for Him and others to know.
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Who Do You Say I Am?
Luke 9:18-20
18 And it happened, as He was alone praying, that His disciples joined Him, and He asked them, saying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 So they answered and said, “John the Baptist, but some say Elijah; and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.”
What matters above all else is that we have to see clearly who Jesus is. If He is just a prophet as Islam says, or just a good man or teacher as many others would like to believe, then we are still in God's justice to be judged and fairly sentenced. If however we see Him as the one from God among us, chosen before time to call us out as only God can, then we can find the certain hope for reconciliation in unearned mercy, forgiveness, and hope forever.
18 And it happened, as He was alone praying, that His disciples joined Him, and He asked them, saying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 So they answered and said, “John the Baptist, but some say Elijah; and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.”
What matters above all else is that we have to see clearly who Jesus is. If He is just a prophet as Islam says, or just a good man or teacher as many others would like to believe, then we are still in God's justice to be judged and fairly sentenced. If however we see Him as the one from God among us, chosen before time to call us out as only God can, then we can find the certain hope for reconciliation in unearned mercy, forgiveness, and hope forever.
Monday, February 29, 2016
Give Them Something To Eat from Him
Luke 9:12-17
12 When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions; for we are in a deserted place here.” 13 But He said to them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we go and buy food for all these people.” 16 Then He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the multitude. 17 So they all ate and were filled, and twelve baskets of the leftover fragments were taken up by them.
The long day of ministry wound down, and there was not enough food, so Jesus told His followers to feed the crowd anyway. He had to provide for them to feed the others in a way that only God who created the world they stood on could. Then there was enough to eat with more left over than they started with. So He gives more grace and ability to we who are His to serve others in His name, for He lives within us...
12 When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions; for we are in a deserted place here.” 13 But He said to them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we go and buy food for all these people.” 16 Then He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the multitude. 17 So they all ate and were filled, and twelve baskets of the leftover fragments were taken up by them.
The long day of ministry wound down, and there was not enough food, so Jesus told His followers to feed the crowd anyway. He had to provide for them to feed the others in a way that only God who created the world they stood on could. Then there was enough to eat with more left over than they started with. So He gives more grace and ability to we who are His to serve others in His name, for He lives within us...
Sunday, February 28, 2016
All They Had Done
Luke 9:10-11
10 And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing.
After laboring in the gospel to many, the followers of Jesus came back to Him. He took them to a quiet place to speak with them, but soon many heard and followed also. So the retreat became teaching and ministry to those hungry for truth from God and in need. So we must never retreat from opportunity that arises, putting our rest or reflection times above needs of eternal matters that may arise. Religious activity must never be a roadblock to Jesus Christ.
10 And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing.
After laboring in the gospel to many, the followers of Jesus came back to Him. He took them to a quiet place to speak with them, but soon many heard and followed also. So the retreat became teaching and ministry to those hungry for truth from God and in need. So we must never retreat from opportunity that arises, putting our rest or reflection times above needs of eternal matters that may arise. Religious activity must never be a roadblock to Jesus Christ.
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Who Is This Jesus?
Luke 9:7-9
7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by Him; and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again. 9 Herod said, “John I have beheaded, but who is this of whom I hear such things?” So he sought to see Him.
People did not listen to hear Jesus say who He is. Even now some will say Jesus is just a prophet, just a good man, or someone sent from God - but not as God in the man, not as the Messiah and deliverer from God's just anger from our sin that ever falls short of God's standards. He is more than a man, and we will also seek to know and see Him until we know God has visited us as He spoke all along. Now He speaks as the Son of God and man...
7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by Him; and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again. 9 Herod said, “John I have beheaded, but who is this of whom I hear such things?” So he sought to see Him.
People did not listen to hear Jesus say who He is. Even now some will say Jesus is just a prophet, just a good man, or someone sent from God - but not as God in the man, not as the Messiah and deliverer from God's just anger from our sin that ever falls short of God's standards. He is more than a man, and we will also seek to know and see Him until we know God has visited us as He spoke all along. Now He speaks as the Son of God and man...
Friday, February 26, 2016
Preaching and Provision
Luke 9:3-6
3 And He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money; and do not have two tunics apiece. 4 “Whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5 And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Jesus sent His ambassadors out with total reliance on His provision - they were to go with the shirt on their back and no food or supplies. This made them lean on Him as they proclaimed the good news and helped others. Whatever we do now in His name must have that same reliance on God's grace and daily provision in Christ wherever we go. Where we are welcome, we share more; where rejected, we shake it off and move on to those He is calling and have ears to hear.
3 And He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money; and do not have two tunics apiece. 4 “Whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5 And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Jesus sent His ambassadors out with total reliance on His provision - they were to go with the shirt on their back and no food or supplies. This made them lean on Him as they proclaimed the good news and helped others. Whatever we do now in His name must have that same reliance on God's grace and daily provision in Christ wherever we go. Where we are welcome, we share more; where rejected, we shake it off and move on to those He is calling and have ears to hear.
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Power and Authority to Preach
Luke 9:1-2
1 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.
Jesus sent His followers with the authority and power of God to tell others of His kingdom ("repent, for the kingdom is at hand," parables, beatitudes, and other teaching of Jesus) and to heal sick people. This showed that they came in His name by doing what only He could do, and so they did. They told of the good news by repentance and faith (though not the full story since Jesus did not die and rise yet) and proved it by making people well physically also.
1 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.
Jesus sent His followers with the authority and power of God to tell others of His kingdom ("repent, for the kingdom is at hand," parables, beatitudes, and other teaching of Jesus) and to heal sick people. This showed that they came in His name by doing what only He could do, and so they did. They told of the good news by repentance and faith (though not the full story since Jesus did not die and rise yet) and proved it by making people well physically also.
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Alive Again!
Luke 8:52-56
52 Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, “Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping.” 53 And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead. 54 But He put them all outside, took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” 55 Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat. 56 And her parents were astonished, but He charged them to tell no one what had happened.
The God who created us can give life to the dead. With a word the living word of God spoke all into being, and so also speaks life to us who are dead to Him in our separating estrangement of sin. But His love in mercy is infinitely greater, promising life through and past the grave. This is the sure hope that hears, "arise" and obeys by faith.
52 Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, “Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping.” 53 And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead. 54 But He put them all outside, took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” 55 Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat. 56 And her parents were astonished, but He charged them to tell no one what had happened.
The God who created us can give life to the dead. With a word the living word of God spoke all into being, and so also speaks life to us who are dead to Him in our separating estrangement of sin. But His love in mercy is infinitely greater, promising life through and past the grave. This is the sure hope that hears, "arise" and obeys by faith.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Touching Jesus
Luke 8:45-48
45 And Jesus said, “Who touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ” 46 But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” 47 Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. 48 And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
Who touched Jesus? This woman had faith that touching just the mere edge of His clothing would be enough to make her well. And so she did. And so by faith she received what God allowed. Jesus gave deliverance and peace in response to her heart. So He delivers those drawn to Him who respond in God given faith with soul healing and peace with God.
45 And Jesus said, “Who touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ” 46 But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” 47 Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. 48 And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
Who touched Jesus? This woman had faith that touching just the mere edge of His clothing would be enough to make her well. And so she did. And so by faith she received what God allowed. Jesus gave deliverance and peace in response to her heart. So He delivers those drawn to Him who respond in God given faith with soul healing and peace with God.
Monday, February 22, 2016
Tell What God Has Done
Luke 8:38-39
38 Now the man from whom the demons had departed begged Him that he might be with Him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.
When God changes a man, the man must tell of or bear witness to the great things Jesus has done to set him free and forever change him from the inside out. Like the one here, do we then tell the whole city the great things done for us in His grace, mercy, and complete reconciling forgiveness?
38 Now the man from whom the demons had departed begged Him that he might be with Him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.
When God changes a man, the man must tell of or bear witness to the great things Jesus has done to set him free and forever change him from the inside out. Like the one here, do we then tell the whole city the great things done for us in His grace, mercy, and complete reconciling forgiveness?
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Every Knee Will Bow
Luke 8:34-37
34 When those who fed them saw what had happened, they fled and told it in the city and in the country. 35 Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 36 They also who had seen it told them by what means he who had been demon-possessed was healed. 37 Then the whole multitude of the surrounding region of the Gadarenes asked Him to depart from them, for they were seized with great fear. And He got into the boat and returned.
Jesus showed all created creatures, including demons taking over people, had to bow to His ultimate authority. When this man was set free, people told everyone and were so afraid of God and His work in front of them that they asked Him to leave - not to stay or to bow or Jesus, but to go away so they would not feel their sin in His glory. Jesus left, for He does not force Himself on us, but leaves us to ourselves (a bad choice for us, John 3:17-20).
34 When those who fed them saw what had happened, they fled and told it in the city and in the country. 35 Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 36 They also who had seen it told them by what means he who had been demon-possessed was healed. 37 Then the whole multitude of the surrounding region of the Gadarenes asked Him to depart from them, for they were seized with great fear. And He got into the boat and returned.
Jesus showed all created creatures, including demons taking over people, had to bow to His ultimate authority. When this man was set free, people told everyone and were so afraid of God and His work in front of them that they asked Him to leave - not to stay or to bow or Jesus, but to go away so they would not feel their sin in His glory. Jesus left, for He does not force Himself on us, but leaves us to ourselves (a bad choice for us, John 3:17-20).
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Where is Your Faith?
Luke 8:23-25
23 But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. 24 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. 25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”
When we are in trouble, do we cry out for help to God? Or do we hear what He says and know what He can do, trusting with faith that acts and relies on Him? Jesus saved them from the storm, but then asked where their faith was. So we see that He is God, able to control all elements that He spoke into existence and which He can change with a word any time. We must trust in God as Jesus by His Spirit agreeing with that inside us. Faith is real trust.
23 But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. 24 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. 25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”
When we are in trouble, do we cry out for help to God? Or do we hear what He says and know what He can do, trusting with faith that acts and relies on Him? Jesus saved them from the storm, but then asked where their faith was. So we see that He is God, able to control all elements that He spoke into existence and which He can change with a word any time. We must trust in God as Jesus by His Spirit agreeing with that inside us. Faith is real trust.
Friday, February 19, 2016
Hear and Do God's Word
Luke 8:19-21
19 Then His mother and brothers came to Him, and could not approach Him because of the crowd. 20 And it was told Him by some, who said, “Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.” 21 But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”
If we are about our Father's business, following Jesus Christ and serving others with the words and deeds of the gospel, the we know what being His sons and daughters really means. We hear and do our best to do what He told us. Our natural families are important, yet being part of God's family endures past the grave. We must desire to see Him more than they desire to see us in the final analysis as Jesus showed us here with His own family.
19 Then His mother and brothers came to Him, and could not approach Him because of the crowd. 20 And it was told Him by some, who said, “Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.” 21 But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”
If we are about our Father's business, following Jesus Christ and serving others with the words and deeds of the gospel, the we know what being His sons and daughters really means. We hear and do our best to do what He told us. Our natural families are important, yet being part of God's family endures past the grave. We must desire to see Him more than they desire to see us in the final analysis as Jesus showed us here with His own family.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Lift Your Light High
Luke 8:16-18
16 “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. 17 For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. 18 Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.”
We are given the light to expose and replace darkness, but this cannot be done while covered. What we have heard inside our souls by God's revealing, this must be shone forth to let the world see what is truth in Christ alone. God gives the gifts and ability to do these things - unless we cover or dim it.
16 “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. 17 For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. 18 Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.”
We are given the light to expose and replace darkness, but this cannot be done while covered. What we have heard inside our souls by God's revealing, this must be shone forth to let the world see what is truth in Christ alone. God gives the gifts and ability to do these things - unless we cover or dim it.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Seed is Word of God
Luke 8:11-15
11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. 14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. 15 But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.
God's word either grows fruitfully to a changed life, or is pushed out by self seeking, or only sounds good and is quickly forgotten, or never is even considered due to hard hearts led elsewhere to begin with. But when we heed this seed honestly and with good desire, then it grows to salvation and peace with God. Our ears must be open and hearts receptive and obedient.
11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. 14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. 15 But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.
God's word either grows fruitfully to a changed life, or is pushed out by self seeking, or only sounds good and is quickly forgotten, or never is even considered due to hard hearts led elsewhere to begin with. But when we heed this seed honestly and with good desire, then it grows to salvation and peace with God. Our ears must be open and hearts receptive and obedient.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Purpose of Parables
Luke 8:9-10
9 Then His disciples asked Him, saying, “What does this parable mean?” 10 And He said, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.’
God shows us what the Bible means; without Him opening our eyes with faith to perceive what is hidden in plain view there, we remain blind. Likewise, we cannot hear Him call us unless He gives understanding to what He is telling us. We remain deaf and blind unless He calls us and enables us - yet when He does, we must take heed and understand His good news in our free forgiveness and offer of reconciliation in Jesus Christ which we cannot earn or even find by ourselves.
9 Then His disciples asked Him, saying, “What does this parable mean?” 10 And He said, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.’
God shows us what the Bible means; without Him opening our eyes with faith to perceive what is hidden in plain view there, we remain blind. Likewise, we cannot hear Him call us unless He gives understanding to what He is telling us. We remain deaf and blind unless He calls us and enables us - yet when He does, we must take heed and understand His good news in our free forgiveness and offer of reconciliation in Jesus Christ which we cannot earn or even find by ourselves.
Monday, February 15, 2016
Hear the Sower Parable
Luke 8:5-8
5 “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. 6 Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. 8 But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold.” When He had said these things He cried, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
Jesus told stories that echoed truth, but required a mind and heart tuned spiritually to hear the real story. Here He talks of seed falling and being taken away, seed on rocky ground not taking hold, plants choked out by thorns, and some on good ground growing and producing different amounts of harvest. If you hear, what does this say to you?
5 “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. 6 Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. 8 But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold.” When He had said these things He cried, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
Jesus told stories that echoed truth, but required a mind and heart tuned spiritually to hear the real story. Here He talks of seed falling and being taken away, seed on rocky ground not taking hold, plants choked out by thorns, and some on good ground growing and producing different amounts of harvest. If you hear, what does this say to you?
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Glad Tidings of the Kingdom
Luke 8:1-3
1 Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, 2 and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, 3 and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.
The love of God moved His followers to show love back, thankful for what they were delivered from and the kingdom within and to come. So they responded in loving giving to meet Jesus and the disciples' needs such as food. They gave freely as they had been freely given. So ought we to love God and His people.
1 Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, 2 and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, 3 and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.
The love of God moved His followers to show love back, thankful for what they were delivered from and the kingdom within and to come. So they responded in loving giving to meet Jesus and the disciples' needs such as food. They gave freely as they had been freely given. So ought we to love God and His people.
Saturday, February 13, 2016
Awareness of Forgiveness
Luke 7:41-43, 47-50
41 “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.” And He said to him, “You have rightly judged.” 47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” 48 Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”
Those aware of their sin and how short they fall from God's righteousness are ever more thankful forth the forgiveness in Christ. It is not necessarily that they were worse persons, but that they felt their need and debt to God more - so when the debt is paid in full, so the heart by faith is given more. Jesus forgives to the uttermost, and by faith in Him alone (not our efforts) we have peace with Him. And so we love much and follow with this ever in mind...
41 “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.” And He said to him, “You have rightly judged.” 47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” 48 Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”
Those aware of their sin and how short they fall from God's righteousness are ever more thankful forth the forgiveness in Christ. It is not necessarily that they were worse persons, but that they felt their need and debt to God more - so when the debt is paid in full, so the heart by faith is given more. Jesus forgives to the uttermost, and by faith in Him alone (not our efforts) we have peace with Him. And so we love much and follow with this ever in mind...
Friday, February 12, 2016
Wisdom Not Justified by Expectations
Luke 7:32-35
32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, saying: ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we mourned to you, and you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 But wisdom is justified by all her children.”
How often we want Jesus to do what we expect, and some even go further to reject and attack those speaking truth and doing as God says instead of what others expect or demand. But wisdom comes from those who follow God and not men (unless they are following and giving the right example). So when we follow the principles and examples in Scripture by the sound understanding of all of it in context and uncolored by personal or popular interpretation, we follow as children ought.
32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, saying: ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we mourned to you, and you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 But wisdom is justified by all her children.”
How often we want Jesus to do what we expect, and some even go further to reject and attack those speaking truth and doing as God says instead of what others expect or demand. But wisdom comes from those who follow God and not men (unless they are following and giving the right example). So when we follow the principles and examples in Scripture by the sound understanding of all of it in context and uncolored by personal or popular interpretation, we follow as children ought.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
John Prepared the Way
Luke 7:26-28
26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ 28 For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Prophets reached their pinnacle in John the Baptist, for he cleared a path of repentance for Jesus' coming ministry. Yet we of His kingdom are said to be ''greater'." We have God's reconciliation and redemption fully in Christ's death and resurrection, God himself living in us to reveal His word in a way which only prophets could previously. In that sense we know the greatness of our position and have insight into the things of this kingdom more.
26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ 28 For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Prophets reached their pinnacle in John the Baptist, for he cleared a path of repentance for Jesus' coming ministry. Yet we of His kingdom are said to be ''greater'." We have God's reconciliation and redemption fully in Christ's death and resurrection, God himself living in us to reveal His word in a way which only prophets could previously. In that sense we know the greatness of our position and have insight into the things of this kingdom more.
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
The Coming One
Luke 7:18-23
18 Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. 19 And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” 22 Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.”
Jesus did all those things God told beforehand would be done by His Messiah, the Christ. So when John's followers asked Jesus if He was that one, Jesus demonstrated proof by miraculous actions spelled out from Isaiah 29 and 35. He made the blind see beyond what was in front of them and opened ears to hear what He had to say so they heard the good news and saw who Jesus was. So we need not be offended, but rejoice in knowing Him.
18 Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. 19 And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” 22 Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.”
Jesus did all those things God told beforehand would be done by His Messiah, the Christ. So when John's followers asked Jesus if He was that one, Jesus demonstrated proof by miraculous actions spelled out from Isaiah 29 and 35. He made the blind see beyond what was in front of them and opened ears to hear what He had to say so they heard the good news and saw who Jesus was. So we need not be offended, but rejoice in knowing Him.
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Do Not Weep for the Dead
Luke 7:13-16
13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” 15 So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother. 16 Then fear came upon all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen up among us”; and, “God has visited His people.”
People spread the miraculous news when Jesus raised a widow's son from death to life, but did they speak of the miracle alone, or also the compassion Jesus showed and felt for her? So the witnesses were awestruck and some knew God had come to them as the only giver of life to the dead. So He calls us to new life within as well, having Himself died for us and who raised Himself from death to life as a forerunner for us. God among us offers life with Himself.
13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” 15 So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother. 16 Then fear came upon all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen up among us”; and, “God has visited His people.”
People spread the miraculous news when Jesus raised a widow's son from death to life, but did they speak of the miracle alone, or also the compassion Jesus showed and felt for her? So the witnesses were awestruck and some knew God had come to them as the only giver of life to the dead. So He calls us to new life within as well, having Himself died for us and who raised Himself from death to life as a forerunner for us. God among us offers life with Himself.
Monday, February 8, 2016
Grace as Faith's Object
Luke 7:7-10
7 Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” 10 And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well who had been sick.
Faith sees the owner as undeserving (grace) and yet knows God can do anything if He only says a word to make it so, just as when He created the universe. The military discipline of the Roman here was based on training and fear to give an order and know it would happen; with God we do not ask from fear of punishment, but awe and trust in One who never fails. So Jesus calls this absolute trust 'great faith.' We must so trust and serve Him in reliance.
7 Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” 10 And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well who had been sick.
Faith sees the owner as undeserving (grace) and yet knows God can do anything if He only says a word to make it so, just as when He created the universe. The military discipline of the Roman here was based on training and fear to give an order and know it would happen; with God we do not ask from fear of punishment, but awe and trust in One who never fails. So Jesus calls this absolute trust 'great faith.' We must so trust and serve Him in reliance.
Sunday, February 7, 2016
Solid Foundation
Luke 6:46-49
46 “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? 47 Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.”
Only the foundation of Jesus Christ can hold up what we build on Him. Of course, wood and hay will burn and precious metals will remain, but we are forever His when He is what we build on, whatever we build with. So we do not say empty words of 'Lord,' but have Him so in our hearts because we are saved by grace and faith on Christ alone, our foundation and cornerstone! So we weather the storm of judgment for eternity. Repent, believe, and follow- this is building on rock.
46 “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? 47 Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. 49 But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.”
Only the foundation of Jesus Christ can hold up what we build on Him. Of course, wood and hay will burn and precious metals will remain, but we are forever His when He is what we build on, whatever we build with. So we do not say empty words of 'Lord,' but have Him so in our hearts because we are saved by grace and faith on Christ alone, our foundation and cornerstone! So we weather the storm of judgment for eternity. Repent, believe, and follow- this is building on rock.
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Fruit Speaks From the Heart
Luke 6:43-45
43 “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
Fruit comes from the heart, even when we trip and fall - if Jesus lives in us, if God's Spirit is allowed to control as we yield, then we bear more fruit. Most, not all, of what we say reveals what lies within. It is too easy to judge based on failure when the majority of the life practices what is good to God (not what pleases self imposed rules). If anyone continually practices sin (the bad tree), he is not His as 1 John tells us. But 1 Corinthians 3 tells us we suffer loss but are saved, bringing in the good with us.
43 “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
Fruit comes from the heart, even when we trip and fall - if Jesus lives in us, if God's Spirit is allowed to control as we yield, then we bear more fruit. Most, not all, of what we say reveals what lies within. It is too easy to judge based on failure when the majority of the life practices what is good to God (not what pleases self imposed rules). If anyone continually practices sin (the bad tree), he is not His as 1 John tells us. But 1 Corinthians 3 tells us we suffer loss but are saved, bringing in the good with us.
Friday, February 5, 2016
Specks and Planks
Luke 6:41-42
41 And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother's eye.
A tree bearing good fruit is never reaches perfection, but aims at it as the goal. So judging others harshly when we have the bigger logjam in our own vision gets in the way. Jesus told us to first cut down the forest of our own looming faults before helping others to dust off their small problems to clear their sight.
41 And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother's eye.
A tree bearing good fruit is never reaches perfection, but aims at it as the goal. So judging others harshly when we have the bigger logjam in our own vision gets in the way. Jesus told us to first cut down the forest of our own looming faults before helping others to dust off their small problems to clear their sight.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Trained to be Like Christ
Luke 6:39-40
39 And He spoke a parable to them: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
We should not listen to teachers who do not see what God has said as recorded in His word. If we do not use this word as the gauge of vision, we are following one who cannot show us anything they cannot see themselves. So many are led to hurt or ruin. We need instead to become more like Jesus from those who themselves are looking to His truth to see the way to walk on the level and narrow road.
39 And He spoke a parable to them: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
We should not listen to teachers who do not see what God has said as recorded in His word. If we do not use this word as the gauge of vision, we are following one who cannot show us anything they cannot see themselves. So many are led to hurt or ruin. We need instead to become more like Jesus from those who themselves are looking to His truth to see the way to walk on the level and narrow road.
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Measured Judgment
Luke 6:37-38
37 “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
How and what we give to others is how we receive it back, whether directly from God or through others. So when people judge or condemn us, we should examine ourselves to see if we are passing sentence or mercy on others. When we are not reconciled with those who hold unforgiving grudges, do we look to see if we have not forgiven someone? God saved us by grace, forgiving and releasing us from eternal judgment; how can we not do likewise?
37 “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
How and what we give to others is how we receive it back, whether directly from God or through others. So when people judge or condemn us, we should examine ourselves to see if we are passing sentence or mercy on others. When we are not reconciled with those who hold unforgiving grudges, do we look to see if we have not forgiven someone? God saved us by grace, forgiving and releasing us from eternal judgment; how can we not do likewise?
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Love Your Enemies in Mercy
Luke 6:35-36
35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
Instead of looking for a return on love, good deeds, and lending (which all are self seeking when done just to get something out of it), we are told to selflessly love, to do good for the other's sake, and to give to meet needs, not as investments with profit. This is the mercy God shows us in Christ, not giving us what we deserve as sinners, and showing grace of giving gifts freely and not what we owe.
35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
Instead of looking for a return on love, good deeds, and lending (which all are self seeking when done just to get something out of it), we are told to selflessly love, to do good for the other's sake, and to give to meet needs, not as investments with profit. This is the mercy God shows us in Christ, not giving us what we deserve as sinners, and showing grace of giving gifts freely and not what we owe.
Monday, February 1, 2016
Pray for the Spiteful
Luke 6:27-31
27 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.
Loving our enemies really means that we treat and respond to them as we want our enemies to do with us. So we are to bless, do good, and pray for them as they offend or steal from us. We are not to hold back from meeting their needs nor retaliate for the evil they do to us. This is a difficult thing, but if we begin by putting ourselves in their place and pray as we do right and even bless them, God is honored.
27 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.
Loving our enemies really means that we treat and respond to them as we want our enemies to do with us. So we are to bless, do good, and pray for them as they offend or steal from us. We are not to hold back from meeting their needs nor retaliate for the evil they do to us. This is a difficult thing, but if we begin by putting ourselves in their place and pray as we do right and even bless them, God is honored.
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