John 7:33-36
33 Then Jesus said to them, “I shall be with you a little while longer, and then I go to Him who sent Me. 34 You will seek Me and not find Me, and where I am you cannot come.” 35 Then the Jews said among themselves, “Where does He intend to go that we shall not find Him? Does He intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks and teach the Greeks? 36 What is this thing that He said, “You will seek Me and not find Me, and where I am you cannot come’?”
Jesus knew when He would be crucified. When He said they would not be able to follow Him, they did not understand that they could not die on a cross, lay in a tomb for days, and then bring themselves back to life and into the Father's presence as only the God-man could. So we can only follow by being made new and able in Christ the first fruits to follow through death into life.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Know Him Who is Known
John 7:27-31
27 However, we know where this Man is from; but when the Christ comes, no one knows where He is from.” 28 Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, “You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. 29 But I know Him, for I am from Him, and He sent Me." 31 And many of the people believed in Him, and said, “When the Christ comes, will He do more signs than these which this Man has done?”
The Jews did not see the scriptures telling where Jesus would come from, but the real issue of where the Christ was to come was not the town but from above. The signs He did were only to backup the words as divine in origin. So they should see and know where He is from - God the Father in heaven. So we should see and remember who He is as well; not what we are expected to by men or even churches, but from what He has said already.
27 However, we know where this Man is from; but when the Christ comes, no one knows where He is from.” 28 Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, “You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. 29 But I know Him, for I am from Him, and He sent Me." 31 And many of the people believed in Him, and said, “When the Christ comes, will He do more signs than these which this Man has done?”
The Jews did not see the scriptures telling where Jesus would come from, but the real issue of where the Christ was to come was not the town but from above. The signs He did were only to backup the words as divine in origin. So they should see and know where He is from - God the Father in heaven. So we should see and remember who He is as well; not what we are expected to by men or even churches, but from what He has said already.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Don't Judge by Appearance
John 7:21-24
21 Jesus answered and said to them, “I did one work, and you all marvel. 22 Moses therefore gave you circumcision (not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and you circumcise a man on the Sabbath. 23 If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath, so that the law of Moses should not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath? 24 Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
Jesus healed a man on a day that religious leaders said no work could be done on, yet they did a work all the time to satisfy the letter of the Law for circumcision (before Moses' law). So Jesus pointed out the real issue, that of their hearts not using righteous judgment. They were looking at the outward acts as absolute and absolutely missed caring for others in the process. Loving God first and others next is why laws were given to show us righteousness.
21 Jesus answered and said to them, “I did one work, and you all marvel. 22 Moses therefore gave you circumcision (not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and you circumcise a man on the Sabbath. 23 If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath, so that the law of Moses should not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath? 24 Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
Jesus healed a man on a day that religious leaders said no work could be done on, yet they did a work all the time to satisfy the letter of the Law for circumcision (before Moses' law). So Jesus pointed out the real issue, that of their hearts not using righteous judgment. They were looking at the outward acts as absolute and absolutely missed caring for others in the process. Loving God first and others next is why laws were given to show us righteousness.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Jesus' Authority
John 7:15-18
15 And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?” 16 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17 If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority. 18 He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him.
Jesus spoke with authority because He is more than just a man; as God, as His living word, Jesus knew evert jot and tittle of all scripture. He was the author of it, and they did not understand how he could know more than they of Jewish academia. Pride and disbelief drove them to seek their own glory over God's. But the Messiah was sent sinlessly to glorify the Father as we were meant to do and would if it were not for our sin.
15 And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?” 16 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17 If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority. 18 He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him.
Jesus spoke with authority because He is more than just a man; as God, as His living word, Jesus knew evert jot and tittle of all scripture. He was the author of it, and they did not understand how he could know more than they of Jewish academia. Pride and disbelief drove them to seek their own glory over God's. But the Messiah was sent sinlessly to glorify the Father as we were meant to do and would if it were not for our sin.
Monday, September 26, 2016
World's Works are Evil
John 7:4-8
4 For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 For even His brothers did not believe in Him. 6 Then Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it that its works are evil. 8 You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.”
People who don't believe Jesus demand that He dance to their flutes, they say He must show Himself in the ways and at the times they command. Yet Jesus knows the beginning to the end and has plans set by His word to accomplish. So the world hates the Jesus who does not fit their own doctrine of expectations. Yet Jesus still goes and does as told in His time. Our time is always to follow; His time and ours is in His hands.
4 For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 For even His brothers did not believe in Him. 6 Then Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it that its works are evil. 8 You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.”
People who don't believe Jesus demand that He dance to their flutes, they say He must show Himself in the ways and at the times they command. Yet Jesus knows the beginning to the end and has plans set by His word to accomplish. So the world hates the Jesus who does not fit their own doctrine of expectations. Yet Jesus still goes and does as told in His time. Our time is always to follow; His time and ours is in His hands.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
You Have Words of Eternal Life!
John 6:66-69
66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Many left Jesus when He challenged them with truth and confronted their hearts to repent. But the 12 (11 actually) were asked if they also wanted to leave, Peter answered for them. Where else could they go? They knew Jesus had words that gave unending life with God, and believed He was the Son of God and the Anointed One. So they followed on to the death - and beyond. Do we follow at all costs also?
66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Many left Jesus when He challenged them with truth and confronted their hearts to repent. But the 12 (11 actually) were asked if they also wanted to leave, Peter answered for them. Where else could they go? They knew Jesus had words that gave unending life with God, and believed He was the Son of God and the Anointed One. So they followed on to the death - and beyond. Do we follow at all costs also?
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Believe Only if Granted Faith
John 6:64-66
64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him. 65 And He said, “Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.” 66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more.
God knows who will believe, but also has to draw men and grant them to come and be His. Many who hear that it is up to God to call and grant faith to then believe just walk away angry, because pride says they must do it in their own power. Jesus said we must be called out, and He knows who we are that are enabled to believe - all by His work and grace, not ours enabled by rules or others, but by Christ alone.
64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him. 65 And He said, “Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.” 66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more.
God knows who will believe, but also has to draw men and grant them to come and be His. Many who hear that it is up to God to call and grant faith to then believe just walk away angry, because pride says they must do it in their own power. Jesus said we must be called out, and He knows who we are that are enabled to believe - all by His work and grace, not ours enabled by rules or others, but by Christ alone.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Words of Spirit and Life
John 6:60-63
60 Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” 61 When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.
When we are faced with difficult things from God's words, we can question and complain, or turn an ear to hear and remember that Jesus rose from the grave, alive forevermore. He gives us that same life by His Spirit; our own efforts and abilities cannot give the understanding that comes only from God. Our pride therefore takes offense and complains or turns away instead of stopping to listen.
60 Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” 61 When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.
When we are faced with difficult things from God's words, we can question and complain, or turn an ear to hear and remember that Jesus rose from the grave, alive forevermore. He gives us that same life by His Spirit; our own efforts and abilities cannot give the understanding that comes only from God. Our pride therefore takes offense and complains or turns away instead of stopping to listen.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Eat and Drink Christ for Life
John 6:54-58
54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. 56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me. 58 This is the bread which came down from heaven—not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.”
We only find life in Jesus Christ; His body was broken to take our punishment and His blood was given to pay the price, to atone for our sin. So we can find new life in Him alone and can eat of Him as our whole provision wherever we journey or wander. Partaking of Christ means living forever in and with Him.
54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. 56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me. 58 This is the bread which came down from heaven—not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.”
We only find life in Jesus Christ; His body was broken to take our punishment and His blood was given to pay the price, to atone for our sin. So we can find new life in Him alone and can eat of Him as our whole provision wherever we journey or wander. Partaking of Christ means living forever in and with Him.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Come Only If Drawn to Christ
John 6:44-47
44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. 46 Not that anyone has seen the Father, except He who is from God; He has seen the Father. 47 Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.
When God draws someone, He gives them ears that can hear and teaches them as they are called and come to Him through Christ. The time He opens our eyes is when the faith to trust with active belief becomes the moment of rebirth that has assurance of life forever with Him - now and through death. This mystery of drawing and calling out to a new life is as the wind blowing, the unseen but felt work of God in those He calls, justifies, and glorifies.
44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. 46 Not that anyone has seen the Father, except He who is from God; He has seen the Father. 47 Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.
When God draws someone, He gives them ears that can hear and teaches them as they are called and come to Him through Christ. The time He opens our eyes is when the faith to trust with active belief becomes the moment of rebirth that has assurance of life forever with Him - now and through death. This mystery of drawing and calling out to a new life is as the wind blowing, the unseen but felt work of God in those He calls, justifies, and glorifies.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
None Lost, Eternity Gained
John 6:38-40
38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39 This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. 40 And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Jesus called out those given by the Father. He lost none really His (Judas was not), and promises life forever with Him to all who are His. So we are called out, enabled to believe with eyes opened and ears unstopped so we can believe to receive Jesus Christ and be reborn. Our hope of final resurrection is proven by His, and His we are!
38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39 This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. 40 And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Jesus called out those given by the Father. He lost none really His (Judas was not), and promises life forever with Him to all who are His. So we are called out, enabled to believe with eyes opened and ears unstopped so we can believe to receive Jesus Christ and be reborn. Our hope of final resurrection is proven by His, and His we are!
Monday, September 19, 2016
Elect All Come to Christ for Bread
John 6:34-37
34 Then they said to Him, “Lord, give us this bread always.” 35 And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. 36 But I said to you that you have seen Me and yet do not believe. 37 All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.
Being consumed with Jesus Christ means we never go hungry or thirst for those things which satisfy the soul. But this only comes when we see who He is and believe what He told us. That leads to forgiveness and marks us as His forever - nobody (not even ourselves) can change His work by throwing us out. Have we consumed and are we consumed by Him?
34 Then they said to Him, “Lord, give us this bread always.” 35 And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. 36 But I said to you that you have seen Me and yet do not believe. 37 All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.
Being consumed with Jesus Christ means we never go hungry or thirst for those things which satisfy the soul. But this only comes when we see who He is and believe what He told us. That leads to forgiveness and marks us as His forever - nobody (not even ourselves) can change His work by throwing us out. Have we consumed and are we consumed by Him?
Sunday, September 18, 2016
Manna from Heaven
John 6:30-33
30 Therefore they said to Him, “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You? What work will You do? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ ” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”
God gave Israel manna as bread down from heaven for forty years; it was not Moses, but God, and now here He does again coming down to allow us to partake of God Himself with life giving bread. Jesus Christ is who we eat of, not a teacher or leader or prophet. Only God gives life, and we find our nourishment in fellowship and union with Him.
30 Therefore they said to Him, “What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You? What work will You do? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ ” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”
God gave Israel manna as bread down from heaven for forty years; it was not Moses, but God, and now here He does again coming down to allow us to partake of God Himself with life giving bread. Jesus Christ is who we eat of, not a teacher or leader or prophet. Only God gives life, and we find our nourishment in fellowship and union with Him.
Saturday, September 17, 2016
Acceptable Work is to Believe
John 6:28-29
28 Then they said to Him, “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.”
We try to do good things to earn a way to God, but we all fall short and never can work the true work of God - to believe Jesus Christ whom He sent. This is the good news, that all our work fall shot but one, His work we trust and believe fully and only in.
28 Then they said to Him, “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.”
We try to do good things to earn a way to God, but we all fall short and never can work the true work of God - to believe Jesus Christ whom He sent. This is the good news, that all our work fall shot but one, His work we trust and believe fully and only in.
Friday, September 16, 2016
Work for Eternal Food
John 6:25-27
25 And when they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “Rabbi, when did You come here?” 26 Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. 27 Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.”
People followed after Jesus to hear more, such as here where He walked out to catch a boat to the other side of the lake and they could not find Him. More importantly, Jesus told them why they did it - because they ate from multiplied food that made them hungry for more. Then Jesus pointed out the real desire should be for everlasting food for the soul that only He can give (the anointed one, the Messiah/Christ). If they had ears to hear...
25 And when they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “Rabbi, when did You come here?” 26 Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. 27 Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.”
People followed after Jesus to hear more, such as here where He walked out to catch a boat to the other side of the lake and they could not find Him. More importantly, Jesus told them why they did it - because they ate from multiplied food that made them hungry for more. Then Jesus pointed out the real desire should be for everlasting food for the soul that only He can give (the anointed one, the Messiah/Christ). If they had ears to hear...
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Peace in the Storm
John 6:18-21
18 Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. 19 So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. 20 But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21 Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.
Fear in life's storms comes when we stare at the tempest and not the one over it all. Jesus came to the disciples walking over the waves to bring them peace. So He does for us when we face dark and tumultuous times in our lives. So we continue to do what is right, keep our eyes on Him, and walk on in trusting faith that knows these things. We will get to land in the boat with Him.
18 Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. 19 So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. 20 But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21 Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.
Fear in life's storms comes when we stare at the tempest and not the one over it all. Jesus came to the disciples walking over the waves to bring them peace. So He does for us when we face dark and tumultuous times in our lives. So we continue to do what is right, keep our eyes on Him, and walk on in trusting faith that knows these things. We will get to land in the boat with Him.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Suffering Servant
John 6:15
Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone.
Jesus came as Messiah to rule, but not as the people thought - they tried to make Him an earthly King, while Jesus wanted to rule their hearts. So He went away from the crowd to pray and then kept telling us why He came until it was time for sacrifice and the beginning of a spiritual kingdom to begin in men's hearts and souls.
Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone.
Jesus came as Messiah to rule, but not as the people thought - they tried to make Him an earthly King, while Jesus wanted to rule their hearts. So He went away from the crowd to pray and then kept telling us why He came until it was time for sacrifice and the beginning of a spiritual kingdom to begin in men's hearts and souls.
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Nothing Lost
John 6:12-14
12 So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.” 13 Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten. 14 Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
Feeding 5,000 with 5 loaves of bread made everyone there believe Jesus was the prophet spoken of who would come. But Jesus was the manna from heaven sent to feed us from Himself, to partake of Him in a new life with God as Spirit living in us. The miracle was not in feeding so many, but feeding so many from Himself. There is always enough left over for more.
12 So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.” 13 Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten. 14 Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
Feeding 5,000 with 5 loaves of bread made everyone there believe Jesus was the prophet spoken of who would come. But Jesus was the manna from heaven sent to feed us from Himself, to partake of Him in a new life with God as Spirit living in us. The miracle was not in feeding so many, but feeding so many from Himself. There is always enough left over for more.
Monday, September 12, 2016
Faith Tested for Sustenance
John 6:2-6
2 Then a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His signs which He performed on those who were diseased. 3 And Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat with His disciples. 4 Now the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near. 5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” 6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.
Many came to Jesus for a miracle, not wanting to suffer any more. But Jesus was concerned for their sustenance, and asked the disciples where to get food - yet Jesus knew already He would provide it without cost. So He began to test their faith and show them again where all comes from, the hand of God Himself. This is where we also receive all we need for both life and godliness.
2 Then a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His signs which He performed on those who were diseased. 3 And Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat with His disciples. 4 Now the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near. 5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” 6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.
Many came to Jesus for a miracle, not wanting to suffer any more. But Jesus was concerned for their sustenance, and asked the disciples where to get food - yet Jesus knew already He would provide it without cost. So He began to test their faith and show them again where all comes from, the hand of God Himself. This is where we also receive all we need for both life and godliness.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
OT Speaks of Christ
John 5:45-47
45 Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you—Moses, in whom you trust. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”
The Jews had God's word from Moses and the prophets, who all pointed to Jesus the Messiah. Yet they did not accept that they fell short of God's standards in their hearts and motives, and missed that they also with the nations were accused by God and under His wrath. So by not believing Jesus' words, they did not believe the Old Testament. God's written word as a man told them. Do we accept all of the Bible as from God, and listen to how Jesus explained it all? It is all or none, and none leaves us under judgment we are due...
45 Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you—Moses, in whom you trust. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”
The Jews had God's word from Moses and the prophets, who all pointed to Jesus the Messiah. Yet they did not accept that they fell short of God's standards in their hearts and motives, and missed that they also with the nations were accused by God and under His wrath. So by not believing Jesus' words, they did not believe the Old Testament. God's written word as a man told them. Do we accept all of the Bible as from God, and listen to how Jesus explained it all? It is all or none, and none leaves us under judgment we are due...
Saturday, September 10, 2016
Seek Honor from God
John 5:41-44
41 “I do not receive honor from men. 42 But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. 43 I have come in My Father's name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. 44 How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?
So few honor Jesus Christ as God's Son; they honor others for their deeds or position and welcome honor for themselves, yet reject God come to offer life in reconciliation. To believe in Christ one must seek honor from God for believing His words and not from others. Religion will not honor God, only honoring what He said - Jesus is the only way, truth, and life in the only God. Do we honor Him in all things?
41 “I do not receive honor from men. 42 But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. 43 I have come in My Father's name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. 44 How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?
So few honor Jesus Christ as God's Son; they honor others for their deeds or position and welcome honor for themselves, yet reject God come to offer life in reconciliation. To believe in Christ one must seek honor from God for believing His words and not from others. Religion will not honor God, only honoring what He said - Jesus is the only way, truth, and life in the only God. Do we honor Him in all things?
Friday, September 9, 2016
Search the Scriptures!
John 5:36-40
36 But I have a greater witness than John's; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. 37 And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. 38 But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. 39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. 40 But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.
John witnessed who Jesus was, but so did the impossible works Jesus did. But above that, God the Father testified, especially through all the scriptures from Genesis to Malachi. Jesus as the Son heard the Father's voice, while others did not. So many search the bible to see Jesus, but are unwilling to come to Him for forgiveness and life. When God calls, He enables the ear to hear and eye to see by faith; otherwise we do not believe any witness or testimony.
36 But I have a greater witness than John's; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. 37 And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. 38 But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. 39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. 40 But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.
John witnessed who Jesus was, but so did the impossible works Jesus did. But above that, God the Father testified, especially through all the scriptures from Genesis to Malachi. Jesus as the Son heard the Father's voice, while others did not. So many search the bible to see Jesus, but are unwilling to come to Him for forgiveness and life. When God calls, He enables the ear to hear and eye to see by faith; otherwise we do not believe any witness or testimony.
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Righteous Judgment
John 5:30
I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.
Why should we listen to Jesus Christ? Because as God's very word spoken to create all things, that word that became a man, He is God. When God speaks and judges, it it right and true, and so God's will in judgment and all things is heard in the Son of God. We listen therefore to God speaking as recorded in the Bible, the authority of God - His word that both judges and forgives as it reveals His character and will, as well as our hopeless state apart from Him without reconciliation in Christ.
I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.
Why should we listen to Jesus Christ? Because as God's very word spoken to create all things, that word that became a man, He is God. When God speaks and judges, it it right and true, and so God's will in judgment and all things is heard in the Son of God. We listen therefore to God speaking as recorded in the Bible, the authority of God - His word that both judges and forgives as it reveals His character and will, as well as our hopeless state apart from Him without reconciliation in Christ.
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Hear and Believe for Eternal Life
John 5:24-29
24 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. 28 Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice 29 and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.
Hearing Jesus with soul and mind given understanding brings life forever, a new birth out of spiritual death - and into forever beyond death of the body. He promises to speak life and bring us out of our graves, just as He brought Himself out of the grave first as proof. But those who did evil and refused to hear and be forgiven, will be forever condemned to suffer justly and fairly as we all deserve. Oh that all would listen long enough to hear!
24 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. 28 Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice 29 and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.
Hearing Jesus with soul and mind given understanding brings life forever, a new birth out of spiritual death - and into forever beyond death of the body. He promises to speak life and bring us out of our graves, just as He brought Himself out of the grave first as proof. But those who did evil and refused to hear and be forgiven, will be forever condemned to suffer justly and fairly as we all deserve. Oh that all would listen long enough to hear!
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Son Gives Life to Whom He Wills
John 5:20-23
20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. 21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. 22 For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.
The Son of God gives life to the ones He chooses to, just as He is the one who judges all people and even raises them from the dead. So God as Son deserves all honor as the Father and does such great things to put us in awe - consider His words and work just while walking on the earth, not to mention all from the beginning of time. If you see Jesus you see the Father, for God is one, and all is held together through Him. This is why Jesus Christ is more than a mere man and deserves our worship.
20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. 21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. 22 For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.
The Son of God gives life to the ones He chooses to, just as He is the one who judges all people and even raises them from the dead. So God as Son deserves all honor as the Father and does such great things to put us in awe - consider His words and work just while walking on the earth, not to mention all from the beginning of time. If you see Jesus you see the Father, for God is one, and all is held together through Him. This is why Jesus Christ is more than a mere man and deserves our worship.
Monday, September 5, 2016
Jesus Equal with God
John 5:17-19
17 But Jesus answered them, “My Father has been working until now, and I have been working.” 18 Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that God was His Father, making Himself equal with God. 19 Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.
Not only did Jesus do good on the Sabbath, He called God His Father. He made Himself equal to God - which is why His acts ruled the day of rest, not the interpretation of others. So they tried to kill the one they called a blasphemer who said He was God. And He is. Yet in the role of the Son, Jesus followed His father's deeds and will. Jesus Christ is God, and we who follow Him do also as God says rather than men. All we are able to do is by His authority and power and will.
17 But Jesus answered them, “My Father has been working until now, and I have been working.” 18 Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that God was His Father, making Himself equal with God. 19 Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.
Not only did Jesus do good on the Sabbath, He called God His Father. He made Himself equal to God - which is why His acts ruled the day of rest, not the interpretation of others. So they tried to kill the one they called a blasphemer who said He was God. And He is. Yet in the role of the Son, Jesus followed His father's deeds and will. Jesus Christ is God, and we who follow Him do also as God says rather than men. All we are able to do is by His authority and power and will.
Sunday, September 4, 2016
Healed to Sin no More
John 5:12-15
12 Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’?” 13 But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. 14 Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” 15 The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.
When Jesus healed, religious ones tried to find out who He was so they could accuse Jesus of breaking Sabbath rules. The man who was healed was simply grateful not to suffer anymore. But he was also warned by Jesus to stop sinning - he was forgiven from sin to no longer walk therein. Even now people will mock and even attack those born again ones who have received the ultimate healing of their souls. Wisdom is justified by her children.
12 Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’?” 13 But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. 14 Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” 15 The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.
When Jesus healed, religious ones tried to find out who He was so they could accuse Jesus of breaking Sabbath rules. The man who was healed was simply grateful not to suffer anymore. But he was also warned by Jesus to stop sinning - he was forgiven from sin to no longer walk therein. Even now people will mock and even attack those born again ones who have received the ultimate healing of their souls. Wisdom is justified by her children.
Saturday, September 3, 2016
Rise, Take Your Bed, Walk
John 5:5-9
5 Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” 7 The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” 9 And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath.
Jesus comes to us to make us whole, yet still asks if we are willing. So the will of man must be initiated by God to heal our souls to salvation. We cannot heal ourselves spiritually, nor get up and walk as a new creation in unless God bids us to rise from death to life and walk after Jesus. He is our sabbath rest; we only find peace with God and rest from trying to work the righteousness of Christ when we take His on ourselves.
5 Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” 7 The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” 9 And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath.
Jesus comes to us to make us whole, yet still asks if we are willing. So the will of man must be initiated by God to heal our souls to salvation. We cannot heal ourselves spiritually, nor get up and walk as a new creation in unless God bids us to rise from death to life and walk after Jesus. He is our sabbath rest; we only find peace with God and rest from trying to work the righteousness of Christ when we take His on ourselves.
Friday, September 2, 2016
Signs and Wonders, or Belief?
John 4:48-53
48 Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” 49 The nobleman said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies!” 50 Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your son lives.” So the man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him, and he went his way. 52 Then he inquired of them the hour when he got better. And they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” 53 So the father knew that it was at the same hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives.” And he himself believed, and his whole household.
Jesus spoke with the same authority as when creating the earth, and the official's son was instantly made well, escaping death. When the man heard his son was alive and well, he believed in Jesus, for only with God was such a thing possible. He may not have known Jesus was the Son of God, but did see divinity in action and believed for the work's sake. So we hear Jesus now and the testimonials of those written down like this to move us to see who He is and trustingly believe in thought, word, and will.
48 Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” 49 The nobleman said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies!” 50 Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your son lives.” So the man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him, and he went his way. 52 Then he inquired of them the hour when he got better. And they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” 53 So the father knew that it was at the same hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives.” And he himself believed, and his whole household.
Jesus spoke with the same authority as when creating the earth, and the official's son was instantly made well, escaping death. When the man heard his son was alive and well, he believed in Jesus, for only with God was such a thing possible. He may not have known Jesus was the Son of God, but did see divinity in action and believed for the work's sake. So we hear Jesus now and the testimonials of those written down like this to move us to see who He is and trustingly believe in thought, word, and will.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Prophet Without Honor
John 4:43-45
43 Now after the two days He departed from there and went to Galilee. 44 For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45 So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they also had gone to the feast.
Jesus avoided the area where He grew up to others who would receive Him and listen to the good news because of all they saw in Him and what He had done, just as the outcasts of Samaria had heard Him and seen. So often we find that the people we grow up with or unbelieving family refuse to see the change in us from Christ in us, and so listen little to the same gospel truth others hunger for. Those who look at the witness alone miss the truth and its life changing impact.
43 Now after the two days He departed from there and went to Galilee. 44 For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45 So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they also had gone to the feast.
Jesus avoided the area where He grew up to others who would receive Him and listen to the good news because of all they saw in Him and what He had done, just as the outcasts of Samaria had heard Him and seen. So often we find that the people we grow up with or unbelieving family refuse to see the change in us from Christ in us, and so listen little to the same gospel truth others hunger for. Those who look at the witness alone miss the truth and its life changing impact.
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
See and Hear for Yourself
John 4:39-42
39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of His own word.42 Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.”
When we bear witness by testifying of what Christ has done in us, others will go to Him to listen to what He said, hoping it is true. When they read and hear for themselves, then they can believe from the source that is reliable and true, and see Jesus is the Christ who alone can save from the just anger of a righteous God. Only by His work and word can we be set free.
39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of His own word.42 Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.”
When we bear witness by testifying of what Christ has done in us, others will go to Him to listen to what He said, hoping it is true. When they read and hear for themselves, then they can believe from the source that is reliable and true, and see Jesus is the Christ who alone can save from the just anger of a righteous God. Only by His work and word can we be set free.
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Fields are Ripe for Harvest
John 4:35-38
35 Do you not say, “There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! 36 And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. 37 For in this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ 38 I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors.”
God sows through us as He did through others from Eden until Christ. So now with the gospel the crops are ripe for bearing fruit for the food we should labor. No matter who plants or waters, it is always God who brings the harvest for eternal life in Christ. Our duty is wages, the souls of men are eternal life fruit of the harvest, and God's glory brings rejoicing together.
35 Do you not say, “There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! 36 And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. 37 For in this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ 38 I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors.”
God sows through us as He did through others from Eden until Christ. So now with the gospel the crops are ripe for bearing fruit for the food we should labor. No matter who plants or waters, it is always God who brings the harvest for eternal life in Christ. Our duty is wages, the souls of men are eternal life fruit of the harvest, and God's glory brings rejoicing together.
Monday, August 29, 2016
Food is to Do God's Will
John 4:31-34
31 In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” 32 But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” 33 Therefore the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.
To Jesus food to sustain the body and enjoy was actually doing God the Father's will, finishing the work He came to do - teaching, suffering, dying, and resurrecting from the grave. So that is what He hungered for. We should also hunger for doing God's will, to run the course faithfully and finish the race with the goal of glorifying God in sight always. This is His will and our calling. Let us find these words of His as more than necessary food and savor each one.
31 In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” 32 But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” 33 Therefore the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.
To Jesus food to sustain the body and enjoy was actually doing God the Father's will, finishing the work He came to do - teaching, suffering, dying, and resurrecting from the grave. So that is what He hungered for. We should also hunger for doing God's will, to run the course faithfully and finish the race with the goal of glorifying God in sight always. This is His will and our calling. Let us find these words of His as more than necessary food and savor each one.
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Worship in Spirit and Truth
John 4:21-26
21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25 The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.”
Worship of God is not constrained to one certain city or place, but in the heart of the worshipper as a living temple where God takes up residence. Real worship is not in rituals nor in the right building, it is true spiritual honoring and exaltation of our creator and Lord from within. The Messiah, the Christ - Jesus - He is who told us this, He who is God's very word. He is the source of all authority, and so is true and worthy to be praised.
21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25 The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.”
Worship of God is not constrained to one certain city or place, but in the heart of the worshipper as a living temple where God takes up residence. Real worship is not in rituals nor in the right building, it is true spiritual honoring and exaltation of our creator and Lord from within. The Messiah, the Christ - Jesus - He is who told us this, He who is God's very word. He is the source of all authority, and so is true and worthy to be praised.
Saturday, August 27, 2016
Never Thirst Again
John 4:11-14
11 The woman said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? 13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
Living water satisfies our thirst, while water from a well we draw repeatedly ourselves will always leave us needing more. So it is with what Jesus offers to truly satisfy our thirst - His Spirit given to live in us becomes this unending life as a fountain flowing continually from within, from Him.
11 The woman said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? 13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
Living water satisfies our thirst, while water from a well we draw repeatedly ourselves will always leave us needing more. So it is with what Jesus offers to truly satisfy our thirst - His Spirit given to live in us becomes this unending life as a fountain flowing continually from within, from Him.
Friday, August 26, 2016
Living Water Freely Given
John 4:7-10
7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” 8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”
Jesus turned a request from an outcast for a drink into an offer she could not wisely refuse - living water from God with her. He so offer us to drink as we try to serve in order to earn a dink, but He comes to us to offer when we don't expect it nor deserve it. It is freely offered.
7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” 8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”
Jesus turned a request from an outcast for a drink into an offer she could not wisely refuse - living water from God with her. He so offer us to drink as we try to serve in order to earn a dink, but He comes to us to offer when we don't expect it nor deserve it. It is freely offered.
Thursday, August 25, 2016
Predetermined Route
John 4:1-4
1 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria.
Jesus had a timetable to fulfill scripture, so when the religious leaders were set to come after Him for baptizing many to repent (and then not be following the Pharisees but God), Jesus went the direct route to where He needed to go - through an area avoided by "good" Jews. He needed to, not only to get there quicker, but to preach good news to a woman and her town of second class citizens. Jesus came to those looking for the Messiah who believed and received Him.
1 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria.
Jesus had a timetable to fulfill scripture, so when the religious leaders were set to come after Him for baptizing many to repent (and then not be following the Pharisees but God), Jesus went the direct route to where He needed to go - through an area avoided by "good" Jews. He needed to, not only to get there quicker, but to preach good news to a woman and her town of second class citizens. Jesus came to those looking for the Messiah who believed and received Him.
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
Eternal Life or Wrath of God?
John 3:33-36
33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
God the Son guarantees that God is true, and spoke His words to us. The Son has all the Father has, so only believing in Jesus brings life unending in God's presence now and beyond death. We only see life with God in Jesus Christ, or we are still in God's judgment of wrath on our sin - we all are facing what we deserve unless the Son sets us free.
33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
God the Son guarantees that God is true, and spoke His words to us. The Son has all the Father has, so only believing in Jesus brings life unending in God's presence now and beyond death. We only see life with God in Jesus Christ, or we are still in God's judgment of wrath on our sin - we all are facing what we deserve unless the Son sets us free.
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Point to Christ
John 3:26-29
26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!” 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled.
John had been baptizing as he called for people to turn from sin to God, and Jesus baptized also. So the Jews pointed out all were going to Jesus instead; but John pointed out the heaven sent one had that right, while he simply rejoiced to see Jesus in action. He even hinted at Jesus being the Messiah in joy, but nobody seemed to grasp that. We too can only point to Jesus, because we are not God but only His servant messengers bearing witness to Him.
26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!” 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled.
John had been baptizing as he called for people to turn from sin to God, and Jesus baptized also. So the Jews pointed out all were going to Jesus instead; but John pointed out the heaven sent one had that right, while he simply rejoiced to see Jesus in action. He even hinted at Jesus being the Messiah in joy, but nobody seemed to grasp that. We too can only point to Jesus, because we are not God but only His servant messengers bearing witness to Him.
Monday, August 22, 2016
Already Condemned
John 3:18-21
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
We are all condemned unless we believe, and will never believe if we go on doing evil and hating what is good. Loving darkness keeps us from the light because our hearts are not set on doing right to seek and please God. This is the rest of the story beyond God so loved the world - it does not mean all go to heaven, just that it is possible by what Jesus has done.
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
We are all condemned unless we believe, and will never believe if we go on doing evil and hating what is good. Loving darkness keeps us from the light because our hearts are not set on doing right to seek and please God. This is the rest of the story beyond God so loved the world - it does not mean all go to heaven, just that it is possible by what Jesus has done.
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Look and Believe or Perish
John 3:13-17
13 No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
Heavenly things come down from there, and Jesus brought these to us, that we might look on Him and believe all He said and has done to make forgiveness and life forever with God possible. We need to believe His life, death, and resurrection and therefore that Jesus is God, the Word man man. That is how much God loves His creation, to send His Son from heaven to bring these good gifts and save us from ourselves, our own sin, and from His due punishment against we who are born against Him.
13 No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
Heavenly things come down from there, and Jesus brought these to us, that we might look on Him and believe all He said and has done to make forgiveness and life forever with God possible. We need to believe His life, death, and resurrection and therefore that Jesus is God, the Word man man. That is how much God loves His creation, to send His Son from heaven to bring these good gifts and save us from ourselves, our own sin, and from His due punishment against we who are born against Him.
Saturday, August 20, 2016
Heavenly or Earthly Things?
John 3:9-12
9 Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? 11 Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?
Nicodemus could not grasp hat he had to be born again, changed unseen by God, because everything for him had been the outward works attempting to appease God and earn His favor to enter heaven. Even though he taught the Old Testament, he missed the core of it - that man is born in sin and cannot work his way out of it. Only a new heart and God's Spirit can make us new. So Jesus told him these things in earthly terms because he did not have opened eyes to see further. So God alone now opens eyes to the gospel for change in us.
9 Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? 11 Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?
Nicodemus could not grasp hat he had to be born again, changed unseen by God, because everything for him had been the outward works attempting to appease God and earn His favor to enter heaven. Even though he taught the Old Testament, he missed the core of it - that man is born in sin and cannot work his way out of it. Only a new heart and God's Spirit can make us new. So Jesus told him these things in earthly terms because he did not have opened eyes to see further. So God alone now opens eyes to the gospel for change in us.
Friday, August 19, 2016
Must be Born Again from Above
John 3:3-8
3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
One must be made into a new creation to move from sinful mortality to God's sinless presence in immortality. Only God's breath, His Spirit that first breathed life into the clay of Adam, can blow into us to transform our spirit. So He moves as the breath of a blowing wind to change us in an unseen new birth. This is God's work which man cannot duplicate, imitate, nor even fully investigate; so we can only see the results of being reborn.
3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
One must be made into a new creation to move from sinful mortality to God's sinless presence in immortality. Only God's breath, His Spirit that first breathed life into the clay of Adam, can blow into us to transform our spirit. So He moves as the breath of a blowing wind to change us in an unseen new birth. This is God's work which man cannot duplicate, imitate, nor even fully investigate; so we can only see the results of being reborn.
Thursday, August 18, 2016
He Knows All People
John 2:23-25
23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did. 24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men, 25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.
When people saw what Jesus did they believed in Him, but only to a point - Jesus saw their hearts as He does all men's, and so chose to give Himself only to those He chose. Soon Nicodemus and a Samaritan woman would find Jesus trusting and committing to them the words of life. But it was His choice and on His terms because He knew where their hearts lay. So it is today.
23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did. 24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men, 25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.
When people saw what Jesus did they believed in Him, but only to a point - Jesus saw their hearts as He does all men's, and so chose to give Himself only to those He chose. Soon Nicodemus and a Samaritan woman would find Jesus trusting and committing to them the words of life. But it was His choice and on His terms because He knew where their hearts lay. So it is today.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Resurrected in 3 Days
John 2:19-22
19 Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 Then the Jews said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?” 21 But He was speaking of the temple of His body. 22 Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
Jesus told those who questioned Him about driving out merchandisers from God's house that they could destroy His temple, but Jesus would raise it back up. He meant His body resurrected from the grave, though, not the stones around them. This is the heart of the gospel - hope of a new life from death, now and at the end of time. We are also temples of the living God, for His Spirit lives in those reborn, and these temples will also rise again.
19 Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 Then the Jews said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?” 21 But He was speaking of the temple of His body. 22 Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
Jesus told those who questioned Him about driving out merchandisers from God's house that they could destroy His temple, but Jesus would raise it back up. He meant His body resurrected from the grave, though, not the stones around them. This is the heart of the gospel - hope of a new life from death, now and at the end of time. We are also temples of the living God, for His Spirit lives in those reborn, and these temples will also rise again.
Tuesday, August 16, 2016
Zeal for His House, Not Profit
John 2:14-17
14 And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business. 15 When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. 16 And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father's house a house of merchandise!” 17 Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.”
God's house is to worship Him in, not to do business and make personal profit. Not even if the items sold are supposed to be used to offer sacrifices. So Jesus drove these profiteers out of the temple. A warning for us to not ever make church about profit, but service and worship, and to lovingly but firmly drive out those who would - just how to do this in grace and love is the difficulty.
14 And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business. 15 When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. 16 And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father's house a house of merchandise!” 17 Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.”
God's house is to worship Him in, not to do business and make personal profit. Not even if the items sold are supposed to be used to offer sacrifices. So Jesus drove these profiteers out of the temple. A warning for us to not ever make church about profit, but service and worship, and to lovingly but firmly drive out those who would - just how to do this in grace and love is the difficulty.
Monday, August 15, 2016
Sign of Water Made Wine
John 2:1-4, 11
1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. 3 And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.” 4 Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.” 11 This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.
The 3rd day after disciples began following Jesus, He turned water into wine at a wedding feast they were invited to. So began many signs Jesus did that were not humanly possible to show He was from heaven. So God began walking around us to show His glory in ways we could not miss if not rejected. So now also we can read these from eyewitnesses and either harden our hearts or believe and follow when called.
1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. 3 And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.” 4 Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.” 11 This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.
The 3rd day after disciples began following Jesus, He turned water into wine at a wedding feast they were invited to. So began many signs Jesus did that were not humanly possible to show He was from heaven. So God began walking around us to show His glory in ways we could not miss if not rejected. So now also we can read these from eyewitnesses and either harden our hearts or believe and follow when called.
Sunday, August 14, 2016
How Do You Know Me?
John 1:48-51
48 Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” 49 Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
Jesus knows us before we know Him. But even that is small compared to who Jesus is and what He did for us, coming down from heaven with angels ministering as He suffered, died, and arose victorious over Heath and hell. But we still look past His work to His knowing and calling us before we saw Him. He draws us and first saw us in sovereign grace and mercy.
48 Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” 49 Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
Jesus knows us before we know Him. But even that is small compared to who Jesus is and what He did for us, coming down from heaven with angels ministering as He suffered, died, and arose victorious over Heath and hell. But we still look past His work to His knowing and calling us before we saw Him. He draws us and first saw us in sovereign grace and mercy.
Saturday, August 13, 2016
We Have Found Him!
John 1:43-46
43 The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46 And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
Jesus found Philip and called him to follow; Philip in turn found Nathanael and pointed to the Messiah (the prophet we should listen to) that God wrote about from the beginning. They knew the Scriptures and that they pointed to Jesus, and shared that so another could come and see also. So do we seek out the one who found us and point others to see Him also as the Bible points out who He is.
43 The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46 And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
Jesus found Philip and called him to follow; Philip in turn found Nathanael and pointed to the Messiah (the prophet we should listen to) that God wrote about from the beginning. They knew the Scriptures and that they pointed to Jesus, and shared that so another could come and see also. So do we seek out the one who found us and point others to see Him also as the Bible points out who He is.
Friday, August 12, 2016
The Messiah, the Christ
John 1:40-42
40 One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone).
When we meet the Messiah, the Christ Jesus, we are moved to tell others we found Him (actually He found us as here) and followed. We do not force religion or our way on others, but gladly are driven to invite others to meet Him to know the same fulfilling joy we have. We bring others to meet our savior messiah to find life.
40 One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone).
When we meet the Messiah, the Christ Jesus, we are moved to tell others we found Him (actually He found us as here) and followed. We do not force religion or our way on others, but gladly are driven to invite others to meet Him to know the same fulfilling joy we have. We bring others to meet our savior messiah to find life.
Thursday, August 11, 2016
Behold the Lamb of God!
John 1:35-38
35 Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. 36 And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?”
The lamb of God - a lamb was to be sacrificed to atone for sin. Jesus walked by John and was identified as God's sacrifice for us by the one sent ahead to make a way for Him by repentance and cleansing crooked ways. So what do we seek? Do we ask where He lives so we can live there also? Only Jesus sacrificed Himself for us in a perfect way to perfect us in His righteousness; ours is filthy rags no matter how we work, we all come short, so only a perfect sacrifice will do.
35 Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. 36 And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?”
The lamb of God - a lamb was to be sacrificed to atone for sin. Jesus walked by John and was identified as God's sacrifice for us by the one sent ahead to make a way for Him by repentance and cleansing crooked ways. So what do we seek? Do we ask where He lives so we can live there also? Only Jesus sacrificed Himself for us in a perfect way to perfect us in His righteousness; ours is filthy rags no matter how we work, we all come short, so only a perfect sacrifice will do.
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
Spirit Descended and Remained
John 1:32-34
32 And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. 33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
God as Spirit is in whom we are immersed and cleansed - baptized. John saw God's Spirit on the Son of God and man to also prove Jesus was both a man and God among us, Emmanuel. This same Spirit is the one all Christians receive when made new, reborn, and without which we only have lifeless religion. God himself comes to live within us, Christ the hope of glory!
Colossians 1:27 - To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
32 And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. 33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
God as Spirit is in whom we are immersed and cleansed - baptized. John saw God's Spirit on the Son of God and man to also prove Jesus was both a man and God among us, Emmanuel. This same Spirit is the one all Christians receive when made new, reborn, and without which we only have lifeless religion. God himself comes to live within us, Christ the hope of glory!
Colossians 1:27 - To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
Lamb Revealed
John 1:29-31
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ 31 I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.”
A lamb is a sacrifice. Jesus was sacrificed to atone, to completely pay, for all our sin against God. So when John announced that Jesus was God's lamb come to take away sin, he already told of His crucifixion and death in our place. John knew he was a messenger come to turn people to God when He came among us, so he baptized and waited for Jesus to be revealed. Then he faded back to yield to the Lamb of God.
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ 31 I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.”
A lamb is a sacrifice. Jesus was sacrificed to atone, to completely pay, for all our sin against God. So when John announced that Jesus was God's lamb come to take away sin, he already told of His crucifixion and death in our place. John knew he was a messenger come to turn people to God when He came among us, so he baptized and waited for Jesus to be revealed. Then he faded back to yield to the Lamb of God.
Monday, August 8, 2016
Voice Crying in the Wilderness
John 1:20-23
20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
John called everyone to repent, to turn from their sin to God through the Messiah, the Christ. He did this not in the city where everyone lived, but in the wilderness so that they had to be drawn out to come to him to hear. Either people came to hear out of hunger, or they came to question or stop him as the priests were sent by those who were of the council and opposed anyone not of them. John still called out for all to straighten up.
20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
John called everyone to repent, to turn from their sin to God through the Messiah, the Christ. He did this not in the city where everyone lived, but in the wilderness so that they had to be drawn out to come to him to hear. Either people came to hear out of hunger, or they came to question or stop him as the priests were sent by those who were of the council and opposed anyone not of them. John still called out for all to straighten up.
Saturday, August 6, 2016
Grace for Grace and Truth
John 1:16-18
16 And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.
Everything in Christ we have been given, even His righteousness! What the law of rules we could never keep could not do, Jesus Christ did and gives us who come to Him truth of who He is and we are - and unmerited favor, grace, which we never could deserve. We only now can see God in Christ alone; Jesus reveals the Father to us, as He Himself is God's word and God. This is the true God and eternal life.
16 And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.
Everything in Christ we have been given, even His righteousness! What the law of rules we could never keep could not do, Jesus Christ did and gives us who come to Him truth of who He is and we are - and unmerited favor, grace, which we never could deserve. We only now can see God in Christ alone; Jesus reveals the Father to us, as He Himself is God's word and God. This is the true God and eternal life.
Friday, August 5, 2016
Word Became Man, Emmanuel
John 1:14-15
14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ”
God's Word who was with and was God and made all things became a man, Jesus Christ. Those alive saw God's glory with their own eyes in front of them with truth and grace, such as John the Baptist who understood Jesus was higher than any man, not a mere prophet but God's word who existed from eternity among us, Emmanuel. Since God came among us, so should we pay attention and listen to all He said and was written down for us.
14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ”
God's Word who was with and was God and made all things became a man, Jesus Christ. Those alive saw God's glory with their own eyes in front of them with truth and grace, such as John the Baptist who understood Jesus was higher than any man, not a mere prophet but God's word who existed from eternity among us, Emmanuel. Since God came among us, so should we pay attention and listen to all He said and was written down for us.
Thursday, August 4, 2016
Believe & Receive to Become Children of God
John 1:10-13
10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
When Jesus walked this world His people did not acknowledge or even know Him - even though He called them to bring the nations to God. But those who did and now do believe His words and receive and accept Him through His words, these He gives a new life as a birth from within. But even this cannot be in our power or will to want and do so - it is God's will and call and work alone. John told Nicodemus it is unseen like the wind blowing by; so God in our spirits changes and opens our eyes to see and receive with trusting and active belief.
10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
When Jesus walked this world His people did not acknowledge or even know Him - even though He called them to bring the nations to God. But those who did and now do believe His words and receive and accept Him through His words, these He gives a new life as a birth from within. But even this cannot be in our power or will to want and do so - it is God's will and call and work alone. John told Nicodemus it is unseen like the wind blowing by; so God in our spirits changes and opens our eyes to see and receive with trusting and active belief.
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
Witness to the Light of the World
John 1:6-9
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
John the Baptist had been called and sent by God to tell others of the light of men so that we could believe through that testimony by the call to turn from sin to Him. The true light John told us about was about to be seen, so as to illuminate all who would gaze upon Him in repentance and faith - believing, trusting, and receiving that light. We who know Him now also bear forth that light as witnesses.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
John the Baptist had been called and sent by God to tell others of the light of men so that we could believe through that testimony by the call to turn from sin to Him. The true light John told us about was about to be seen, so as to illuminate all who would gaze upon Him in repentance and faith - believing, trusting, and receiving that light. We who know Him now also bear forth that light as witnesses.
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Life Light of Men Shines
John 1:4-5
4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
This Word who from the beginning was God is light and life. The darkness did not comprehend nor could it apprehend or overtake the light of God the word; this light is life to us, to all men and women ever born. God spoke life into the first man in Eden, and this breath of life cannot be created by man - but a word from God is spoken, and so it is. He gives light and life, and it is good.
4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
This Word who from the beginning was God is light and life. The darkness did not comprehend nor could it apprehend or overtake the light of God the word; this light is life to us, to all men and women ever born. God spoke life into the first man in Eden, and this breath of life cannot be created by man - but a word from God is spoken, and so it is. He gives light and life, and it is good.
Monday, August 1, 2016
Word was Always God
John 1:1-3
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.
God's Word is alive. He was with God from the very beginning, and the entire universe and every living thing came from Him. Everything. He was there when God's Spirit hovered over the waters in Genesis and was spoken to create light, land, waters, plants, moon and stars, animals, and us. God spoke it all out of nothingness. This word spoken was God Himself.
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.
God's Word is alive. He was with God from the very beginning, and the entire universe and every living thing came from Him. Everything. He was there when God's Spirit hovered over the waters in Genesis and was spoken to create light, land, waters, plants, moon and stars, animals, and us. God spoke it all out of nothingness. This word spoken was God Himself.
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Waiting for the Promise
Luke 24:48-52
48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” 50 And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,
Those who were there to see Jesus fulfill all God said from the beginning of time were witnesses with the task of proclaiming repentance and taking away of sin through Christ. But they had to wait first until they were given power to enable the authority entrusted. So with joy they waited and worshipped. Since the day their wait ended and God as Spirit lived in them, they witnessed with power and authority; we now coming to Him have both at regeneration, having His Spirit immediately and forever present in us. So we are witnesses also.
48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” 50 And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,
Those who were there to see Jesus fulfill all God said from the beginning of time were witnesses with the task of proclaiming repentance and taking away of sin through Christ. But they had to wait first until they were given power to enable the authority entrusted. So with joy they waited and worshipped. Since the day their wait ended and God as Spirit lived in them, they witnessed with power and authority; we now coming to Him have both at regeneration, having His Spirit immediately and forever present in us. So we are witnesses also.
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Understanding Repentance and Forgiveness
Luke 24:44-47
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. 46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
What Jesus spoke before death is in the Gospels - and so much more from the Old Testament; the entire Bible is God's word that Jesus fulfilled, but we need understanding from Him to see who He is and how He planned already to suffer, die, and rise again 3 days later. He since then tells us to tell others in every country and race and language to repent and be completely forgiven in Christ alone. The good news began in Genesis and ends in Him.
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. 46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
What Jesus spoke before death is in the Gospels - and so much more from the Old Testament; the entire Bible is God's word that Jesus fulfilled, but we need understanding from Him to see who He is and how He planned already to suffer, die, and rise again 3 days later. He since then tells us to tell others in every country and race and language to repent and be completely forgiven in Christ alone. The good news began in Genesis and ends in Him.
Friday, July 29, 2016
Why Are You Troubled?
Luke 24:37-41
37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” 40 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. 41 But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?”
When Jesus came back from the dead and stood before His followers, they thought they saw a ghost. But Jesus allayed their fears and presented hands and feet to see and touch if need be to prove He was really there. Even in their joy of seeing they could not believe the one standing in front of their eyes. So it is with us when He reveals Himself to us and we have joy but don't know what to believe until His Spirit opens the eyes of our hearts...
37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” 40 When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. 41 But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?”
When Jesus came back from the dead and stood before His followers, they thought they saw a ghost. But Jesus allayed their fears and presented hands and feet to see and touch if need be to prove He was really there. Even in their joy of seeing they could not believe the one standing in front of their eyes. So it is with us when He reveals Himself to us and we have joy but don't know what to believe until His Spirit opens the eyes of our hearts...
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Burning Heart Within Us
Luke 24:31-35
31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” 33 So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.
Hearing God's word either convicts us to further rebellion against the truth and anger to God, or as He calls us we are so moved by His words that we anxiously hang on each one as our hearts and souls are consumed as on fire. After Jesus arose and opened the understanding of these two then disappeared, they longed for more. Do we who know Him still feel the burn in our heart as we read or hear from our Lord?
31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” 33 So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.
Hearing God's word either convicts us to further rebellion against the truth and anger to God, or as He calls us we are so moved by His words that we anxiously hang on each one as our hearts and souls are consumed as on fire. After Jesus arose and opened the understanding of these two then disappeared, they longed for more. Do we who know Him still feel the burn in our heart as we read or hear from our Lord?
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Scriptures All Show Christ
Luke 24:25-27
25 Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” 27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.
Two men walking along the road tried to make sense of Jesus' life, death, and seeming resurrection, but could not quite see it. So Jesus told them they were already told in the Old Testament that had to so suffer and die to glorify God. He explained it all from Moses and the Prophets, the Scriptures, how the Christ was to com and do all these as God planned. So we need to search the Scriptures daily to see the things that are so, and to know more of God's sovereignty and purpose for us.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
He is Risen!
Luke 24:5-9
5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.
When the women came to Jesus' tomb, they found it empty - the Angels waiting there told them plainly He was alive, not dead, and that was what He had been telling them. He was handed over to sinful men who killed Him on a cross, but then He came back to life (because Jesus as God has power over life and death and all things). So the awestruck women remembered, and went immediately to tell the others. Because He lives we do also, and must tell others!
5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.
When the women came to Jesus' tomb, they found it empty - the Angels waiting there told them plainly He was alive, not dead, and that was what He had been telling them. He was handed over to sinful men who killed Him on a cross, but then He came back to life (because Jesus as God has power over life and death and all things). So the awestruck women remembered, and went immediately to tell the others. Because He lives we do also, and must tell others!
Monday, July 25, 2016
Good and Just Man
Luke 23:50-52
50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man. 51 He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Not all wanted Jesus dead; this good and just man did not go along with the decision to kill Jesus. He did not think it blasphemy that Jesus said He was God's Son. So he acted on that and asked for Jesus' body to bury it at great expense. He did what was right in open disagreement with injustice. So should we do right, standing for Him and others.
50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man. 51 He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Not all wanted Jesus dead; this good and just man did not go along with the decision to kill Jesus. He did not think it blasphemy that Jesus said He was God's Son. So he acted on that and asked for Jesus' body to bury it at great expense. He did what was right in open disagreement with injustice. So should we do right, standing for Him and others.
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Watching at a Distance
Luke 23:48-49
48 And the whole crowd who came together to that sight, seeing what had been done, beat their breasts and returned. 49 But all His acquaintances, and the women who followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Most of those who saw Jesus die on that cross then were sorrowful, maybe even to repentance. Bit those who knew Him kept back, as if not wanting to be associated with Jesus, or not wanting to face that He was now dead and seemingly unable to help them any longer. Neither group really understood the words He spoke before this, that death would be followed by resurrection; it was hidden until revealed before their very eyes. So it is with us - unless God leads us with a call to open our eyes, we miss what has been in front of us all along. This is the faith of grace.
48 And the whole crowd who came together to that sight, seeing what had been done, beat their breasts and returned. 49 But all His acquaintances, and the women who followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Most of those who saw Jesus die on that cross then were sorrowful, maybe even to repentance. Bit those who knew Him kept back, as if not wanting to be associated with Jesus, or not wanting to face that He was now dead and seemingly unable to help them any longer. Neither group really understood the words He spoke before this, that death would be followed by resurrection; it was hidden until revealed before their very eyes. So it is with us - unless God leads us with a call to open our eyes, we miss what has been in front of us all along. This is the faith of grace.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Into Your Hands, Father
Luke 23:45-47
45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last. 47 So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”
Jesus tore the veil hiding God in the most holy place of the temple; His last breath testified that He was entirely righteous, God among (Emmanuel). Even a Roman could see the truth in front of Him when the way to union and communion with God was opened by the sacrifice once for all on that tree, the cross. We must in turn commit our spirit to Him, dying to ourselves and forever alive in Christ in sweet communion...
45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last. 47 So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”
Jesus tore the veil hiding God in the most holy place of the temple; His last breath testified that He was entirely righteous, God among (Emmanuel). Even a Roman could see the truth in front of Him when the way to union and communion with God was opened by the sacrifice once for all on that tree, the cross. We must in turn commit our spirit to Him, dying to ourselves and forever alive in Christ in sweet communion...
Friday, July 22, 2016
With Jesus in Paradise
Luke 23:42-43
42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
The one criminal condemned to die realized he deserved what was coming, yet when he saw Jesus keeping silent to die innocently, he realized He was Lord and asked to be remembered at His kingdom's coming. Jesus went further to promise that the man would go from death to eternal life without deserving it. Jesus freely commuted the sentence and granted so much more. We also cannot earn a place in heaven by doing good - only a free gift paid at His price can do that.
42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
The one criminal condemned to die realized he deserved what was coming, yet when he saw Jesus keeping silent to die innocently, he realized He was Lord and asked to be remembered at His kingdom's coming. Jesus went further to promise that the man would go from death to eternal life without deserving it. Jesus freely commuted the sentence and granted so much more. We also cannot earn a place in heaven by doing good - only a free gift paid at His price can do that.
Thursday, July 21, 2016
We Receive Justice
Luke 23:37, 39-41
37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”
Save yourself and us - so the taunt went to stop Jesus from dying for us, and to keep us from deliverance from death and hell. But as the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus willingly hung there in innocence in our place. We are condemned men, justly deserving punishment, not Him. That He died for us is grace and mercy. If we fear God, we accept this and turn to Him for life as we die to ourselves.
37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”
Save yourself and us - so the taunt went to stop Jesus from dying for us, and to keep us from deliverance from death and hell. But as the Christ, the Messiah, Jesus willingly hung there in innocence in our place. We are condemned men, justly deserving punishment, not Him. That He died for us is grace and mercy. If we fear God, we accept this and turn to Him for life as we die to ourselves.
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Father Forgive Them
Luke 23:32-34
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.
They gambled for Jesus' clothes as Psalm 22:18 said would happen, after leading Him to the place of death (the skull). Even after nailing Him to the cross Jesus asked forgiveness for them, interceding with mercy and grace. So He offers that grace to us now.
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.
They gambled for Jesus' clothes as Psalm 22:18 said would happen, after leading Him to the place of death (the skull). Even after nailing Him to the cross Jesus asked forgiveness for them, interceding with mercy and grace. So He offers that grace to us now.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Weep for the Lost
Luke 23:28-31
28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
As Jesus faced punishment after judgement, even though He was innocent and was judged in our place - even then He warned about those who deserved it of the time that was coming. The end will be hopeless for many, as they still run from God's justice and even try to hide; how much better to face Him now and admit our sinfulness, turn from it to Christ, and be completely reconciled? Weep then only for the children who will not run to Him.
28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
As Jesus faced punishment after judgement, even though He was innocent and was judged in our place - even then He warned about those who deserved it of the time that was coming. The end will be hopeless for many, as they still run from God's justice and even try to hide; how much better to face Him now and admit our sinfulness, turn from it to Christ, and be completely reconciled? Weep then only for the children who will not run to Him.
Monday, July 18, 2016
Bearing His Cross
Luke 23:26
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
Simon was made to bear the cross of Jesus on the long walk to Jesus' death on it. We are similarly called to take up our cross every day - to take on dying to self to find new life at the end finally. He died for us, we die to live for Him, and the hope (not wish) of a certain life beginning now and into forever makes it bearable each day.
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
Simon was made to bear the cross of Jesus on the long walk to Jesus' death on it. We are similarly called to take up our cross every day - to take on dying to self to find new life at the end finally. He died for us, we die to live for Him, and the hope (not wish) of a certain life beginning now and into forever makes it bearable each day.
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Crucify Him
Luke 23:21-25
21 But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” 22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.” 23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested. 25 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.
Jesus was delivered to the will of a mob led by religious leaders who were exposed before man and God. They said it was blasphemy to be the Son of God, the Messiah. They did not want to lose control with their added requirements and unkept core laws of God. So they yelled loud enough until they had their way. So Jesus allowed himself to be crucified - yet He rose Himself back to life afterwards. God's will prevailed as it must over theirs.
21 But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” 22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.” 23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested. 25 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.
Jesus was delivered to the will of a mob led by religious leaders who were exposed before man and God. They said it was blasphemy to be the Son of God, the Messiah. They did not want to lose control with their added requirements and unkept core laws of God. So they yelled loud enough until they had their way. So Jesus allowed himself to be crucified - yet He rose Himself back to life afterwards. God's will prevailed as it must over theirs.
Saturday, July 16, 2016
No Fault Found in Christ
Luke 23:14-16
14 [Pilate] said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him”
Jesus and we His followers are often accused of misleading people, yet even Pilate saw the lack of evidence of this. He did nothing to earn death. We did however, by our rebellious and sinful hearts. He was to be released but was put to death for our rebellion. We have been set free and given life in place of death. Jesus does not mislead, but guides us into all truth, life, and freedom from our just due.
14 [Pilate] said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him”
Jesus and we His followers are often accused of misleading people, yet even Pilate saw the lack of evidence of this. He did nothing to earn death. We did however, by our rebellious and sinful hearts. He was to be released but was put to death for our rebellion. We have been set free and given life in place of death. Jesus does not mislead, but guides us into all truth, life, and freedom from our just due.
Friday, July 15, 2016
He Will Not Cry Out
Luke 23:8-11
8 Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. 9 Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. 11 Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod was only glad to see Jesus when he thought he would see a show of a miracle; but instead the questions were unanswered, so he turned from gladness to contempt and mocking. This attitude is still around - if Jesus does not work a miracle when called on, then they say He does not exist, does not love them, or is not their savior. They look for what they can get from God instead of God Himself. So we who know Him must also beware of these selfish ideas and bad teaching that encourages them. (Isa. 42:2)
8 Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. 9 Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. 11 Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.
Herod was only glad to see Jesus when he thought he would see a show of a miracle; but instead the questions were unanswered, so he turned from gladness to contempt and mocking. This attitude is still around - if Jesus does not work a miracle when called on, then they say He does not exist, does not love them, or is not their savior. They look for what they can get from God instead of God Himself. So we who know Him must also beware of these selfish ideas and bad teaching that encourages them. (Isa. 42:2)
Thursday, July 14, 2016
No Fault Found in the King
Luke 23:2-5
2 And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.” 3 Then Pilate asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered him and said, “It is as you say.” 4 So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, “I find no fault in this Man.” 5 But they were the more fierce, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to this place.”
Jesus was accused of being both Messiah and King, and even Pilate did not see that as a problem. But the religious leaders were threatened by the truth and pushed harder by saying His peaceful teaching caused trouble - indeed it did as they were exposed as not truly serving God, but themselves. Those who claimed to sit in Moses' seat misused and added to the word of God they were supposed to be responsible for. Even now people in power falsely accuse Christ (and His followers) to cover their own guilt in accountability to God.
2 And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.” 3 Then Pilate asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered him and said, “It is as you say.” 4 So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, “I find no fault in this Man.” 5 But they were the more fierce, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to this place.”
Jesus was accused of being both Messiah and King, and even Pilate did not see that as a problem. But the religious leaders were threatened by the truth and pushed harder by saying His peaceful teaching caused trouble - indeed it did as they were exposed as not truly serving God, but themselves. Those who claimed to sit in Moses' seat misused and added to the word of God they were supposed to be responsible for. Even now people in power falsely accuse Christ (and His followers) to cover their own guilt in accountability to God.
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
Jesus is Rightly the Son of God
Luke 22:67-71
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us." But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. 69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” 70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” 71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Jesus admitted He is the Messiah, the Christ, making Himself equal with God as no mere man. But when asked, Jesus first said the answer would not make them believe or stop persecuting Him to death. When they heard that He was the Son of God, that testimony sealed their charge of blasphemy and made the way to beatings and death on a cross. But He died for them as well... Who do you say Jesus is? This is the question for eternity we each must ask.
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us." But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. 69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” 70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” 71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Jesus admitted He is the Messiah, the Christ, making Himself equal with God as no mere man. But when asked, Jesus first said the answer would not make them believe or stop persecuting Him to death. When they heard that He was the Son of God, that testimony sealed their charge of blasphemy and made the way to beatings and death on a cross. But He died for them as well... Who do you say Jesus is? This is the question for eternity we each must ask.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Mocking God Blasphemously
Luke 22:63-65
63 Now the men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him. 64 And having blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is the one who struck You?” 65 And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him.
Christ gave us an example as He uniquely suffered and died for all who are His; so we can learn from the mocking and demanding of some who do not so much look for proof of truth as attempting to prove not to believe Him. The blasphemous words against God are ones we still hear as fearful men try to deny their accountability and ignore just judgment.m but in so doing they miss mercy and forgiving grace that comes only by His work and words...
63 Now the men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him. 64 And having blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is the one who struck You?” 65 And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him.
Christ gave us an example as He uniquely suffered and died for all who are His; so we can learn from the mocking and demanding of some who do not so much look for proof of truth as attempting to prove not to believe Him. The blasphemous words against God are ones we still hear as fearful men try to deny their accountability and ignore just judgment.m but in so doing they miss mercy and forgiving grace that comes only by His work and words...
Monday, July 11, 2016
Weeping for Distant Denial
Luke 22:54-55, 61-62
54 Having arrested Him, they led Him and brought Him into the high priest's house. But Peter followed at a distance. 55 Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
Peter kept his distance and was afraid to identify with Christ, even outright denying Him when confronted. And when it came out and he saw Jesus looking at him, Peter wept and regretted his denial. So we can learn to never deny in word or deed the one who bought us at such a price and avoid bitter regret (even though there is merciful forgiveness).
54 Having arrested Him, they led Him and brought Him into the high priest's house. But Peter followed at a distance. 55 Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
Peter kept his distance and was afraid to identify with Christ, even outright denying Him when confronted. And when it came out and he saw Jesus looking at him, Peter wept and regretted his denial. So we can learn to never deny in word or deed the one who bought us at such a price and avoid bitter regret (even though there is merciful forgiveness).
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Hour of Darkness' Power
Luke 22:52-53
52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to Him, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
Deeds against good are often done in the dark, as if hiding keeps it from God. They came afraid when only the disciples could witness the illegal arrest, as if saying you are the Son of God, the Messiah, was a crime. Those in religious power over or influencing governments over the centuries since that time have not silenced the truth of Jesus' message since, nor will they till the end of this world. Love and truth conquers all.
52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to Him, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
Deeds against good are often done in the dark, as if hiding keeps it from God. They came afraid when only the disciples could witness the illegal arrest, as if saying you are the Son of God, the Messiah, was a crime. Those in religious power over or influencing governments over the centuries since that time have not silenced the truth of Jesus' message since, nor will they till the end of this world. Love and truth conquers all.
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Betrayed by a Kiss
Luke 22:47-48
47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Mark 14:44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”
Instead of a kiss of greeting, the betrayer used a kiss to identify Jesus to be arrested, tortured, and killed on a cross. So we also betray Him as we deny before others and seem to agree with their feelings to Christ by not speaking up when it is needed. Do we betray with a kiss, or greet openly as our Savior Lord?
47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Mark 14:44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”
Instead of a kiss of greeting, the betrayer used a kiss to identify Jesus to be arrested, tortured, and killed on a cross. So we also betray Him as we deny before others and seem to agree with their feelings to Christ by not speaking up when it is needed. Do we betray with a kiss, or greet openly as our Savior Lord?
Friday, July 8, 2016
Drink the Cup of Suffering
Luke 22:42-46
42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. 46 Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
Praying to avoid temptation should be motivated by crucifying our desires (flesh) and living to please God - not to earn favor (all is by grace), but thankfully choosing what He made us for. Himself. So we labor in prayer by His strength to daily die to self and live for Christ because that is our deepest desire as new creations of a loving and merciful Creator. No matter the outcome, for He works all for good.
42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. 46 Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
Praying to avoid temptation should be motivated by crucifying our desires (flesh) and living to please God - not to earn favor (all is by grace), but thankfully choosing what He made us for. Himself. So we labor in prayer by His strength to daily die to self and live for Christ because that is our deepest desire as new creations of a loving and merciful Creator. No matter the outcome, for He works all for good.
Thursday, July 7, 2016
Gospel Provision
Luke 22:35
And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
When Jesus sends us out, He provides all we need. This is true for all who labor in the gospel. He goes on in the following verses to say the disciples should take what they need when they will be scattered as He is delivered up to be put to death. So we must be aware to take what we need - but we still rely on His provision.
And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
When Jesus sends us out, He provides all we need. This is true for all who labor in the gospel. He goes on in the following verses to say the disciples should take what they need when they will be scattered as He is delivered up to be put to death. So we must be aware to take what we need - but we still rely on His provision.
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Sifted and Not Found Wanting
Luke 22:31-34
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Our enemy seeks to take and wear us down, but our Lord prays for us as Peter to hold us up when faith is strained. Then He brings us through to serve others after having tasted trials and temptations. Yet knowing all these things we still fail... But He in us is greater, so we are lifted up and strengthened in faith to in turn strengthen others.
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Our enemy seeks to take and wear us down, but our Lord prays for us as Peter to hold us up when faith is strained. Then He brings us through to serve others after having tasted trials and temptations. Yet knowing all these things we still fail... But He in us is greater, so we are lifted up and strengthened in faith to in turn strengthen others.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Servant is the Greatest
Luke 22:25-27
25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves.
Who will be the greatest in God's kingdom? Jesus said the servant, the younger - not the ruler or the master at the table. Even Jesus gave the example to serve, not to be served. Humility out of love in action from the heart is true service, not finding ways to serve to earn a place of greatness; great service does not consider the result for self, but others.
25 And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. 27 For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves.
Who will be the greatest in God's kingdom? Jesus said the servant, the younger - not the ruler or the master at the table. Even Jesus gave the example to serve, not to be served. Humility out of love in action from the heart is true service, not finding ways to serve to earn a place of greatness; great service does not consider the result for self, but others.
Monday, July 4, 2016
New Covenant in His Blood
Luke 22:15-20
15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
Jesus yearned to have a final Passover with the disciples. He knew He would celebrate it with them in His kingdom, but until then they would celebrate and remember by sharing the cup and bread to partake of Him as the Passover lamb. This Lamb of God took away the world's sin as the only worthy sacrifice, and so we remember today till He returns. We have this new covenant, unbreakable and permanent, not earned or out of reach, but freely given when we are drawn to accept the gift in believing reception of heart and mind.
15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
Jesus yearned to have a final Passover with the disciples. He knew He would celebrate it with them in His kingdom, but until then they would celebrate and remember by sharing the cup and bread to partake of Him as the Passover lamb. This Lamb of God took away the world's sin as the only worthy sacrifice, and so we remember today till He returns. We have this new covenant, unbreakable and permanent, not earned or out of reach, but freely given when we are drawn to accept the gift in believing reception of heart and mind.
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Room Provided to Pass Over
Luke 22:7-9, 12-13
7 Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” 9 So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” 12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” 13 So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover.
The sacrifice had to be made in the time set aside, so Jesus had Peter and John kill it, just before all the people would sacrifice Him. Jesus even had the place set aside to celebrate the Passover, putting it into a man's heart to provide a room; so He also prepared a cross to die on as a sacrifice for all who would turn from sin to Him. As our Passover lamb Jesus took on our sin and passed over it all to forgive and give life out of the grave afterwards. Do we celebrate this?
7 Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” 9 So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” 12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” 13 So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover.
The sacrifice had to be made in the time set aside, so Jesus had Peter and John kill it, just before all the people would sacrifice Him. Jesus even had the place set aside to celebrate the Passover, putting it into a man's heart to provide a room; so He also prepared a cross to die on as a sacrifice for all who would turn from sin to Him. As our Passover lamb Jesus took on our sin and passed over it all to forgive and give life out of the grave afterwards. Do we celebrate this?
Saturday, July 2, 2016
Fearful Betrayal
Luke 22:2-6
2 And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people. 3 Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. 4 So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.
Those fearing the reaction of the people planned to kill Jesus whom the people still looked up to. So Satan moved one Judas to betray Jesus when few witnessed were around - and the religious leaders who feared the people and losing their power over them were glad for the opportunity to arrange His murder. Even now the devil stalks those of God, thinking the people will not see, but Jesus Christ in His people is further and sovereignly honored in it all.
2 And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people. 3 Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. 4 So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.
Those fearing the reaction of the people planned to kill Jesus whom the people still looked up to. So Satan moved one Judas to betray Jesus when few witnessed were around - and the religious leaders who feared the people and losing their power over them were glad for the opportunity to arrange His murder. Even now the devil stalks those of God, thinking the people will not see, but Jesus Christ in His people is further and sovereignly honored in it all.
Friday, July 1, 2016
Hear Him Early
Luke 21:37-38
37 And in the daytime He was teaching in the temple, but at night He went out and stayed on the mountain called Olivet. 38 Then early in the morning all the people came to Him in the temple to hear Him.
Jesus spent all day teaching, all night in reflection and prayer, and then rose again to teach all who would hear. His life was an example to us to use every moment as time for or with our Father in heaven. So should we imitate Christ and make our lives count - not to earn grace, but rather because of the free gift of grace.
37 And in the daytime He was teaching in the temple, but at night He went out and stayed on the mountain called Olivet. 38 Then early in the morning all the people came to Him in the temple to hear Him.
Jesus spent all day teaching, all night in reflection and prayer, and then rose again to teach all who would hear. His life was an example to us to use every moment as time for or with our Father in heaven. So should we imitate Christ and make our lives count - not to earn grace, but rather because of the free gift of grace.
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Soberly Watch and Pray!
Luke 21:34-36
34 “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
The warning is a sobering call to a right relationship with God, not living for pleasure, possessions, or self, but for Him. This snares many because none of us is worthy to escape judgement before Jesus Christ. But in Christ is the worthiness by suffering in our place and dying to pay for all falling short - by His good gift alone of life can we be counted worthy to escape our just due. Only by standing in Jesus can we stand before God forever.
34 “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
The warning is a sobering call to a right relationship with God, not living for pleasure, possessions, or self, but for Him. This snares many because none of us is worthy to escape judgement before Jesus Christ. But in Christ is the worthiness by suffering in our place and dying to pay for all falling short - by His good gift alone of life can we be counted worthy to escape our just due. Only by standing in Jesus can we stand before God forever.
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
His Words are Eternal
Luke 21:29-33
29 Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. 31 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
When the things happen showing that the end approaches, those of that generation will see God's word come to pass just as He said. This is not a group of signs to look for, but a warning for all who have not come by faith to God in Christ. What He said is absolute as truth for a warning to turn before it comes to that point, and those who are here then will be able to see as clearly as they observe seasons changing. Are you in Him, ready, now?
29 Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. 31 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
When the things happen showing that the end approaches, those of that generation will see God's word come to pass just as He said. This is not a group of signs to look for, but a warning for all who have not come by faith to God in Christ. What He said is absolute as truth for a warning to turn before it comes to that point, and those who are here then will be able to see as clearly as they observe seasons changing. Are you in Him, ready, now?
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Return in Glory and Power
Luke 21:25-28
25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”
When things really get bad to the point of the heavens and earth in shaking turmoil, then we who have hope can realistically respond by lifting up tired heads and have even joy. We can do this as we face an existence of never ending relief in God's presence. The distress of a sin ravaged and broken world will fade away at last. So when we see Jesus return in the midst of calamity, we see what cannot be shaken instead.
25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”
When things really get bad to the point of the heavens and earth in shaking turmoil, then we who have hope can realistically respond by lifting up tired heads and have even joy. We can do this as we face an existence of never ending relief in God's presence. The distress of a sin ravaged and broken world will fade away at last. So when we see Jesus return in the midst of calamity, we see what cannot be shaken instead.
Monday, June 27, 2016
Judgment and Fulfillment
Luke 21:22-24
22 For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. 24 And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
Jerusalem was warned before its destruction and scattering of its people because of judgment on their sin; so now we are all warned of the end of time for the same. The times of nations allow the gospel to reach the end of the earth so all may hear and many come to the God of Abraham, who was promised to be he father of nations to bless the world. Israel came back to Jerusalem and so we should be aware of sin, righteousness, and judgment to come in being witnesses to God's work in Christ.
22 For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. 24 And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
Jerusalem was warned before its destruction and scattering of its people because of judgment on their sin; so now we are all warned of the end of time for the same. The times of nations allow the gospel to reach the end of the earth so all may hear and many come to the God of Abraham, who was promised to be he father of nations to bless the world. Israel came back to Jerusalem and so we should be aware of sin, righteousness, and judgment to come in being witnesses to God's work in Christ.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Good Defense Wisdom Given
Luke 21:14-19
14 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.
When we testify to be there of God's grace worked in us, our preparation should be to understand clearly what God says about the gospel - man's sin and it's just judgment, Christ's price for our sin, and His calling and grace to faith that enables a new creation. It is not prepared speeches or methods, but the simplicity and reality of the truth as the good news. We may be rejected, ridiculed, or even attacked, but God has our lives in good hands.
14 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.
When we testify to be there of God's grace worked in us, our preparation should be to understand clearly what God says about the gospel - man's sin and it's just judgment, Christ's price for our sin, and His calling and grace to faith that enables a new creation. It is not prepared speeches or methods, but the simplicity and reality of the truth as the good news. We may be rejected, ridiculed, or even attacked, but God has our lives in good hands.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Occasion for Testimony
Luke 21:10-13
10 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name's sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.
As the beginning of eternity with God draws closer for those called out, but before things grow worse closer to the world's end with wars and natural disasters, His people will be persecuted in pressing times. We will be thrown in prison and it will all be for our testimony of Jesus Christ. So we will use the hard times, even death if necessary, to bear witness of God's grace and mercy in Him who laid down His life for us. So we die daily as we bear the cross. Do signs of the end or beginning of forever consume us?
10 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name's sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.
As the beginning of eternity with God draws closer for those called out, but before things grow worse closer to the world's end with wars and natural disasters, His people will be persecuted in pressing times. We will be thrown in prison and it will all be for our testimony of Jesus Christ. So we will use the hard times, even death if necessary, to bear witness of God's grace and mercy in Him who laid down His life for us. So we die daily as we bear the cross. Do signs of the end or beginning of forever consume us?
Friday, June 24, 2016
Don't Be Deceived
Luke 21:5-8
5 Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, 6 “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.” 7 So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them.
Just as Jesus told when the temple in Jerusalem would be torn down [by the Romans], so He went further after proving the times are in His hands to point out there will be many throughout time claiming they are the Christ or telling the date of His return. But we are not to follow where or when He has not told us. As a thief in the night, unannounced, that is when and how. Don't be deceived.
5 Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, 6 “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.” 7 So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them.
Just as Jesus told when the temple in Jerusalem would be torn down [by the Romans], so He went further after proving the times are in His hands to point out there will be many throughout time claiming they are the Christ or telling the date of His return. But we are not to follow where or when He has not told us. As a thief in the night, unannounced, that is when and how. Don't be deceived.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Sacrificial Giving
Luke 21:1-4
1 And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2 and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3 So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; 4 for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.”
What we give to God with an abandoned heart is never too little an amount. When we give without compulsion apart from obligation, we are motivated by love for God and so for others. It is not the abundance given, but the willingness and true generosity that He looks for in our heart's actions.
1 And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2 and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3 So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; 4 for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.”
What we give to God with an abandoned heart is never too little an amount. When we give without compulsion apart from obligation, we are motivated by love for God and so for others. It is not the abundance given, but the willingness and true generosity that He looks for in our heart's actions.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Beware Pride of Life
Luke 20:45-47
45 Then, in the hearing of all the people, He said to His disciples, 46 “Beware of the scribes, who desire to go around in long robes, love greetings in the marketplaces, the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts, 47 who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”
Self glory and self importance are the pride of life that refuses to trust and submit to honor God above all else. Whether religious robes, attention from the public, or expected honored treatment wherever they go - all these take advantage of others for personal gain. These will answer to God when they face Him in the end. Do we fall into this trap, or put Christ first?
45 Then, in the hearing of all the people, He said to His disciples, 46 “Beware of the scribes, who desire to go around in long robes, love greetings in the marketplaces, the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts, 47 who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”
Self glory and self importance are the pride of life that refuses to trust and submit to honor God above all else. Whether religious robes, attention from the public, or expected honored treatment wherever they go - all these take advantage of others for personal gain. These will answer to God when they face Him in the end. Do we fall into this trap, or put Christ first?
Monday, June 20, 2016
Son of God and Man
Luke 20:41-44
41 And He said to them, “How can they say that the Christ is the Son of David? 42 Now David himself said in the Book of Psalms: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, 43 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’ 44 Therefore David calls Him ‘Lord’; how is He then his Son?”
Though on the human side Jesus was descended from King David as we were told, as God Jesus was also Yahweh to David as adonai (lord, master, ruler). So Jesus made it clear He is God as well as man. Only God can live without sin and so sacrifice Himself once for all who come to God the Father through Him. But a man had to pay the price as one of us, so God sacrificed His only and chosen Son as Abraham began to do in the same place years before. Awe.
41 And He said to them, “How can they say that the Christ is the Son of David? 42 Now David himself said in the Book of Psalms: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, 43 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’ 44 Therefore David calls Him ‘Lord’; how is He then his Son?”
Though on the human side Jesus was descended from King David as we were told, as God Jesus was also Yahweh to David as adonai (lord, master, ruler). So Jesus made it clear He is God as well as man. Only God can live without sin and so sacrifice Himself once for all who come to God the Father through Him. But a man had to pay the price as one of us, so God sacrificed His only and chosen Son as Abraham began to do in the same place years before. Awe.
Sunday, June 19, 2016
God of the Living
Luke 20:35-38
35 But those who are counted worthy to attain that age, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; 36 nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. 37 But even Moses showed in the burning bush passage that the dead are raised, when he called the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ 38 For He is not the God of the dead but of the living, for all live to Him.”
To those who do not believe in a resurrection, a life after death, Jesus plainly told us that we will live on from death - no longer needing to marry since death ends and filling the earth is not needed either. Also we will not have bodies that decay or die, but are more like eternal angels as God's children. We who are His all live to Him, in Him, and for Him forever once resurrected!
35 But those who are counted worthy to attain that age, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; 36 nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. 37 But even Moses showed in the burning bush passage that the dead are raised, when he called the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ 38 For He is not the God of the dead but of the living, for all live to Him.”
To those who do not believe in a resurrection, a life after death, Jesus plainly told us that we will live on from death - no longer needing to marry since death ends and filling the earth is not needed either. Also we will not have bodies that decay or die, but are more like eternal angels as God's children. We who are His all live to Him, in Him, and for Him forever once resurrected!
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Render to Caesar and God
Luke 20:22-26
22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 23 But He perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Why do you test Me? 24 Show Me a denarius. Whose image and inscription does it have?” They answered and said, “Caesar's.” 25 And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 26 But they could not catch Him in His words in the presence of the people. And they marveled at His answer and kept silent.
We live by the law of the land, only refusing to deny our Lord by speaking what we have seen and heard from Him. The rest is submission and obedience to the authorities He put in place; honor to whom honor. This can become confusing in a democracy where we have a say, but still guides our responses to put God first. What is God's is God's, and what is the prevailing Caesar's is Caesar's still.
22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 23 But He perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Why do you test Me? 24 Show Me a denarius. Whose image and inscription does it have?” They answered and said, “Caesar's.” 25 And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 26 But they could not catch Him in His words in the presence of the people. And they marveled at His answer and kept silent.
We live by the law of the land, only refusing to deny our Lord by speaking what we have seen and heard from Him. The rest is submission and obedience to the authorities He put in place; honor to whom honor. This can become confusing in a democracy where we have a say, but still guides our responses to put God first. What is God's is God's, and what is the prevailing Caesar's is Caesar's still.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Looking for Opportunity to Betray
Luke 20:19-20
19 And the chief priests and the scribes that very hour sought to lay hands on Him, but they feared the people—for they knew He had spoken this parable against them. 20 So they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous, that they might seize on His words, in order to deliver Him to the power and the authority of the governor.
Those opposed to Christ usually have an agenda, the minority with the loud voice doing all possible to kill the gospel message of accountability and judgment, of sin and righteousness. So they creep in to pervert the message and messengers. But God is greater, completely sovereign, wise, and able to reach men's hearts no matter the opposition. To fight against God is both futile and destructive, especially when He offers grace to forgive and reconcile.
19 And the chief priests and the scribes that very hour sought to lay hands on Him, but they feared the people—for they knew He had spoken this parable against them. 20 So they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous, that they might seize on His words, in order to deliver Him to the power and the authority of the governor.
Those opposed to Christ usually have an agenda, the minority with the loud voice doing all possible to kill the gospel message of accountability and judgment, of sin and righteousness. So they creep in to pervert the message and messengers. But God is greater, completely sovereign, wise, and able to reach men's hearts no matter the opposition. To fight against God is both futile and destructive, especially when He offers grace to forgive and reconcile.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Broken Covenant Trust
Luke 20:9-18
9 Then He began to tell the people this parable: “A certain man planted a vineyard, leased it to vinedressers, and went into a far country for a long time. 13 “Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son. Probably they will respect him when they see him.’ 14 But when the vinedressers saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.’ 15 So they cast him out of the vineyard and killed him. Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 17 Then He looked at them and said, “What then is this that is written: 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone’? 18 Whoever falls on that stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.”
God entrusted His word and Messiah to His people, but they killed the prophets and Jesus the Son as well. But the heir is also the cornerstone that supports all else; that stone either is tripped over and humbles the wounded, or falls upon to utterly crush the ones rejecting Him. Is pride worth the pain of humility? Is death and never ending punishment worth rejecting the Son sent for us?
9 Then He began to tell the people this parable: “A certain man planted a vineyard, leased it to vinedressers, and went into a far country for a long time. 13 “Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son. Probably they will respect him when they see him.’ 14 But when the vinedressers saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.’ 15 So they cast him out of the vineyard and killed him. Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 17 Then He looked at them and said, “What then is this that is written: 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone’? 18 Whoever falls on that stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.”
God entrusted His word and Messiah to His people, but they killed the prophets and Jesus the Son as well. But the heir is also the cornerstone that supports all else; that stone either is tripped over and humbles the wounded, or falls upon to utterly crush the ones rejecting Him. Is pride worth the pain of humility? Is death and never ending punishment worth rejecting the Son sent for us?
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Honest Admissions
Luke 20:2-8
2 and spoke to Him, saying, “Tell us, by what authority are You doing these things? Or who is he who gave You this authority?” 3 But He answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one thing, and answer Me: 4 The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men?” 5 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 6 But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us, for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.” 7 So they answered that they did not know where it was from. 8 And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
It is difficult for religious people to admit who Jesus is, as their system may be exposed to miss the obvious truth before them. Here they refused to honestly answer Jesus about who John the Baptist was out of fear of others and fear of answering God for their biased refusal to admit who He was. Even today people miss who Jesus is out of these fears, even with the truth of God come in the flesh seen clearly in His word they choose not to believe.
2 and spoke to Him, saying, “Tell us, by what authority are You doing these things? Or who is he who gave You this authority?” 3 But He answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one thing, and answer Me: 4 The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men?” 5 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 6 But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us, for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.” 7 So they answered that they did not know where it was from. 8 And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
It is difficult for religious people to admit who Jesus is, as their system may be exposed to miss the obvious truth before them. Here they refused to honestly answer Jesus about who John the Baptist was out of fear of others and fear of answering God for their biased refusal to admit who He was. Even today people miss who Jesus is out of these fears, even with the truth of God come in the flesh seen clearly in His word they choose not to believe.
Monday, June 13, 2016
House of Prayer and Teaching
Luke 19:45-48
45 Then He went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in it, 46 saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” 47 And He was teaching daily in the temple. But the chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people sought to destroy Him, 48 and were unable to do anything; for all the people were very attentive to hear Him.
Jesus made it clear that serving God was not about turning a profit from worshippers, but worshipping God in His house. So He then taught God's word and brought anger from those who allowed the abuse. Even then the plots of the religious could not outweigh the people yearning to hear truth. So it was in the Reformation, and so can it be now.
45 Then He went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in it, 46 saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” 47 And He was teaching daily in the temple. But the chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people sought to destroy Him, 48 and were unable to do anything; for all the people were very attentive to hear Him.
Jesus made it clear that serving God was not about turning a profit from worshippers, but worshipping God in His house. So He then taught God's word and brought anger from those who allowed the abuse. Even then the plots of the religious could not outweigh the people yearning to hear truth. So it was in the Reformation, and so can it be now.
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Jesus Wept over the Lost
Luke 19:41-44
41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
We read how Israel missed Emmanuel, God visiting them as Jesus the Christ. He wept over what they were rejecting and the future destruction of the city. But what gospel was hidden to them is hidden to us as well - until revealed by His appearing and then that He opens our eyes to see as well. But when He gives sight to us as blind sinners, how can we choose otherwise for life?
41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
We read how Israel missed Emmanuel, God visiting them as Jesus the Christ. He wept over what they were rejecting and the future destruction of the city. But what gospel was hidden to them is hidden to us as well - until revealed by His appearing and then that He opens our eyes to see as well. But when He gives sight to us as blind sinners, how can we choose otherwise for life?
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Stones Would Cry Out Praise
Luke 19:37-40
37 ..the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, 38 saying: “ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” 39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” 40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
When people recognize God before them in Christ, they cannot contain themselves. Here they glorified Jesus even when others told them to stop. But as Jesus said, if the people would stop the very rocks on the ground He walked on would cry out His glory as part of the creation. God will be lifted up in honor and glory, for in the end everyone will bow to Him and admit who He is. Everyone.
37 ..the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, 38 saying: “ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” 39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” 40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
When people recognize God before them in Christ, they cannot contain themselves. Here they glorified Jesus even when others told them to stop. But as Jesus said, if the people would stop the very rocks on the ground He walked on would cry out His glory as part of the creation. God will be lifted up in honor and glory, for in the end everyone will bow to Him and admit who He is. Everyone.
Friday, June 10, 2016
The Lord has Need
Luke 19:30-34
30 saying, “Go into the village opposite you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, “Why are you loosing it?’ thus you shall say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’ ” 32 So those who were sent went their way and found it just as He had said to them. 33 But as they were loosing the colt, the owners of it said to them, “Why are you loosing the colt?” 34 And they said, “The Lord has need of him.”
When God asks something of us, do we just give it, even if someone asks for themselves in His name? Asking for a colt was like asking for someone's car today. If all we have is His, are we able to lend all back to Him?
30 saying, “Go into the village opposite you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, “Why are you loosing it?’ thus you shall say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’ ” 32 So those who were sent went their way and found it just as He had said to them. 33 But as they were loosing the colt, the owners of it said to them, “Why are you loosing the colt?” 34 And they said, “The Lord has need of him.”
When God asks something of us, do we just give it, even if someone asks for themselves in His name? Asking for a colt was like asking for someone's car today. If all we have is His, are we able to lend all back to Him?
Thursday, June 9, 2016
God's Kingdom Schedule
Luke 19:11-14, 26-27
11 Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. 12 Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’ 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ ... 26 ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’ ”26 ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’ ”
People wanted God to bring His kingdom right away, on their schedule, so Jesus told of those who hated Him and were not all good stewards of what was entrusted to them. In the end there is either reward or loss, and He still reigns over all. We who are entrusted with eternity keep it with varying reward, but unfaithfulness to respond to the gospel ends in just punishment.
11 Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. 12 Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’ 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ ... 26 ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’ ”26 ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’ ”
People wanted God to bring His kingdom right away, on their schedule, so Jesus told of those who hated Him and were not all good stewards of what was entrusted to them. In the end there is either reward or loss, and He still reigns over all. We who are entrusted with eternity keep it with varying reward, but unfaithfulness to respond to the gospel ends in just punishment.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Eat With Sinners, Not Sinful Believers
Luke 19:7-10
7 But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.” 8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
Do we eat with sinners or judge harshly and treat them badly? Jesus gave us the example to not sin with but be with to freely and without condemnation offer deliverance from the sin. He came to save, to deliver us from sin and God's just anger for it - by seeking us and calling us out. This includes eating with and associating with them. Do we do the same? We are, however, called not to eat with sinners who are unrepentant Christians (1 Cor. 5:11-12).
7 But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.” 8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
Do we eat with sinners or judge harshly and treat them badly? Jesus gave us the example to not sin with but be with to freely and without condemnation offer deliverance from the sin. He came to save, to deliver us from sin and God's just anger for it - by seeking us and calling us out. This includes eating with and associating with them. Do we do the same? We are, however, called not to eat with sinners who are unrepentant Christians (1 Cor. 5:11-12).
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