Thursday, October 10, 2013
Being a minister
Scripture: 1 Tim 4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
Observation: I never cared much for the term "reverend". I have not seen much to revere about men or women, including myself. However, I really like the term "minister". It means a servant, which is what we all should be.
Application: Serve the Lord, Serve others, and enjoy the blessings!
Prayer: Father, help me to be your servant. Humble, and love like you!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Do we all have different faith?
Scripture: Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Observation: Romans 12:3 says that we are all dealt a measure of faith. Are we all dealt the same measure of faith, or a different measure of faith? It seems "fair" that we should all have the same measure of faith. Like a parent giving out allowance to their children, we should all get the same thing right? Why did he get more than I did? Verses 4-8 answer our question, they say that we all serve different purposes, and that we all have different gifting and abilities. But God gives us what we need, according to our his purposes and our benefit. He gives us what we need, not necessarily what we want. For example, if a father had two adult children. One was a lawyer and the other an artist. The father was his end of life and wanted to give his children some of his possessions. He had a law library and a set of classic paint brushes. Would it be right to divide up the law library and paint brushes evenly between his two children? Our would it be better to give the law library to the lawyer and the paint brushes to the artist?
Application: Our gifting are not better or worse than someone elses gifting, but they are different. Rather than falling into the sin of envy, we should embrace and nurture our God given abilities and use them for the benefit of the God who loves us and created us unique.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the way you made me. I know that I am perfect because of you. Give me joy in using your gifts for your purposes. Help me not to envy others. Amen
Observation: Romans 12:3 says that we are all dealt a measure of faith. Are we all dealt the same measure of faith, or a different measure of faith? It seems "fair" that we should all have the same measure of faith. Like a parent giving out allowance to their children, we should all get the same thing right? Why did he get more than I did? Verses 4-8 answer our question, they say that we all serve different purposes, and that we all have different gifting and abilities. But God gives us what we need, according to our his purposes and our benefit. He gives us what we need, not necessarily what we want. For example, if a father had two adult children. One was a lawyer and the other an artist. The father was his end of life and wanted to give his children some of his possessions. He had a law library and a set of classic paint brushes. Would it be right to divide up the law library and paint brushes evenly between his two children? Our would it be better to give the law library to the lawyer and the paint brushes to the artist?
Application: Our gifting are not better or worse than someone elses gifting, but they are different. Rather than falling into the sin of envy, we should embrace and nurture our God given abilities and use them for the benefit of the God who loves us and created us unique.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the way you made me. I know that I am perfect because of you. Give me joy in using your gifts for your purposes. Help me not to envy others. Amen
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Just because we dont believe something, it doesn't make it not true!
Scripture: Romans 3: 3-4 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Observation: If you tell me you are a FBI special agent, and I say "I don't believe it". If you really were a FBI special agent, the person's disbelief doesn't change that fact. In the same way, people in our society seem to think that if they don't believe in God that it makes them not real.
Application: God is God, whether you believe what that he is or not! Nowadays people are taught moral relativism in school, that we somehow each have our own little world that is just as we believe it is. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are some things that are true, whether you believe them or not!
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your truth. You are truth. Help us to understand your truth without error. Let us know you intimately. Amen.
Observation: If you tell me you are a FBI special agent, and I say "I don't believe it". If you really were a FBI special agent, the person's disbelief doesn't change that fact. In the same way, people in our society seem to think that if they don't believe in God that it makes them not real.
Application: God is God, whether you believe what that he is or not! Nowadays people are taught moral relativism in school, that we somehow each have our own little world that is just as we believe it is. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are some things that are true, whether you believe them or not!
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your truth. You are truth. Help us to understand your truth without error. Let us know you intimately. Amen.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Our sin is destroyed!
Scripture: Romans 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin
Observation: We often think of our own sins, or other peoples sins, but have you ever thought about everyone in the whole world... past, present, and future's sin? Imagine the body of sin, all of our sins, together. What an amazing thing. Then imagine all of them being destroyed at one time in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the same way that God told Saul to destroy the Amalekites, every living creature, are our sins to be destroyed completely, totally and without exception (1 Samuel 15:1-3).
Application: We, however, tend to be like Saul, and don't believe fully that our sins are really destroyed. Saul didn't destroy all of the Amelekites like he was commanded to, and millions died throughout the ages as a result. Millions continue to die in their sins today, because they don't believe that their sins are destroyed in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus that you died for our sins, so that we can have new life in you. Let us trust fully in your death, burial, and resurrection, and let us live in new life in you. Let us tell everyone we meet of this good news that you have destroyed sin forever and that we can live free in you!
Observation: We often think of our own sins, or other peoples sins, but have you ever thought about everyone in the whole world... past, present, and future's sin? Imagine the body of sin, all of our sins, together. What an amazing thing. Then imagine all of them being destroyed at one time in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the same way that God told Saul to destroy the Amalekites, every living creature, are our sins to be destroyed completely, totally and without exception (1 Samuel 15:1-3).
Application: We, however, tend to be like Saul, and don't believe fully that our sins are really destroyed. Saul didn't destroy all of the Amelekites like he was commanded to, and millions died throughout the ages as a result. Millions continue to die in their sins today, because they don't believe that their sins are destroyed in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus that you died for our sins, so that we can have new life in you. Let us trust fully in your death, burial, and resurrection, and let us live in new life in you. Let us tell everyone we meet of this good news that you have destroyed sin forever and that we can live free in you!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Justification by Faith
Scripture: Romans 3:9-31
9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:15 Their feet are swift to shed blood:16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:17 And the way of peace have they not known:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.
19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.
Observation: The Apostle Paul here makes the point that he has been leading up to for three chapters, that we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ alone ... both the Jew and the Gentile the same. This is a pillar in the understanding of Christianity, and Paul takes great care, as he was trained as a lawyer, laying out the tenets of this important statement of our faith. Paul first established that we all have sinned, and that we cannot be justified by ourselves or by the law. Then he concludes that we must only be justified by faith in Jesus Christ and in there doing, we have made the law a reality.
Application: Jesus paid for our sins with his life. God himself allowed himself to die a horrible death to become the payment for our wrongdoings, past present and future. However, we are created in God's image and we, like God, make our own choices. We can choose to accept what God did for us, or we can chose to ignore or not believe it. And so, it is when we choose to believe it, faith in Jesus, that we are then made right with God and our ransom is paid. This is Christianity, that God loved us, and paid our ransom with his own life.
Prayer: Thank you father that you are our God. Thank you that you love us. Thank you that you gave your life for ours. Let us know acknowledge and put our trust in you alone. Amen.
9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:15 Their feet are swift to shed blood:16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:17 And the way of peace have they not known:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.
19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.
Observation: The Apostle Paul here makes the point that he has been leading up to for three chapters, that we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ alone ... both the Jew and the Gentile the same. This is a pillar in the understanding of Christianity, and Paul takes great care, as he was trained as a lawyer, laying out the tenets of this important statement of our faith. Paul first established that we all have sinned, and that we cannot be justified by ourselves or by the law. Then he concludes that we must only be justified by faith in Jesus Christ and in there doing, we have made the law a reality.
Application: Jesus paid for our sins with his life. God himself allowed himself to die a horrible death to become the payment for our wrongdoings, past present and future. However, we are created in God's image and we, like God, make our own choices. We can choose to accept what God did for us, or we can chose to ignore or not believe it. And so, it is when we choose to believe it, faith in Jesus, that we are then made right with God and our ransom is paid. This is Christianity, that God loved us, and paid our ransom with his own life.
Prayer: Thank you father that you are our God. Thank you that you love us. Thank you that you gave your life for ours. Let us know acknowledge and put our trust in you alone. Amen.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Does my Sin glorify God?
Scripture: Romans 3:1-8 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? 2Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. 3For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?
4God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
5But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) 6God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? 7For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? 8And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.
Observation: Romans 3:1-8 is a little hard to understand at first. I had to get my kids to help me understand it. They seem to understand the simple things that tend to confound the rest of us. In verse 3, Paul is articulating a very simple truth. I like to say it this way: "Just because you don't believe something, doesn't make it not true". In verses 4-7, Paul is saying another simple truth. He is saying that if we do some wrong stuff, and since Jesus died on the Cross for your sin, then your sin actually makes God's payment for your sin more real... not less real. It is one of God's backwards principles. The more you sin, the more God is glorified. If you are getting any brilliant ideas at this point, verse 8 shuts them down. Just because God payed for our sin, does not mean that we should go sin more. It just doesn't work that way. Just because your car can go in reverse, doesn't mean you should drive it across the country backwards.
Application: I don't know about you, but it makes me feel good to know that in God's plan, my mess-ups actually glorify God. Although I would never try to mess up, because I love God, I know that I do mess up from time to time. Jesus has me covered. It is Ok. And he has you covered too!
Prayer: Father thank you for your divine plan that covers our sins. Thank you for Jesus who died for our sins, past, present, and future. Thank you for your love that makes us right with you. Amen
4God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
5But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) 6God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? 7For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? 8And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.
Observation: Romans 3:1-8 is a little hard to understand at first. I had to get my kids to help me understand it. They seem to understand the simple things that tend to confound the rest of us. In verse 3, Paul is articulating a very simple truth. I like to say it this way: "Just because you don't believe something, doesn't make it not true". In verses 4-7, Paul is saying another simple truth. He is saying that if we do some wrong stuff, and since Jesus died on the Cross for your sin, then your sin actually makes God's payment for your sin more real... not less real. It is one of God's backwards principles. The more you sin, the more God is glorified. If you are getting any brilliant ideas at this point, verse 8 shuts them down. Just because God payed for our sin, does not mean that we should go sin more. It just doesn't work that way. Just because your car can go in reverse, doesn't mean you should drive it across the country backwards.
Application: I don't know about you, but it makes me feel good to know that in God's plan, my mess-ups actually glorify God. Although I would never try to mess up, because I love God, I know that I do mess up from time to time. Jesus has me covered. It is Ok. And he has you covered too!
Prayer: Father thank you for your divine plan that covers our sins. Thank you for Jesus who died for our sins, past, present, and future. Thank you for your love that makes us right with you. Amen
List of Sins?
Scripture: Romans 1:18 - 2:3
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
2:1Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. 2But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. 3And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Observation: The last half of the first chapter of Romans is often used as a "List of Sin". That is, some say this is a list of things that are wrong to do. The clear reference to homosexuality is perhaps the most controversial. However, as I look at the context of this verse, I see that the "Who" that Paul is talking about is in verse 18. Paul is talking about those who "Hold the Truth in Unrighteousness" At the end of his "List" Paul makes it clear again in chapter 2 verse 1 that his is addressing hippocrites, this who judge others doing the same things they judge others for.
Application: Many have used this "List" as a list of Do's and Don'ts, and applied it to those who don't know God. That is not the context that the list was given in. If this list would be applied in context, it would be applied to believers who are judging others... and the application would be for those believers to not do the things that they are condemning others for. Later in Chapter 2, Paul is explicit in God's condemnation of the judgmental. However, he does not excuse the sinners, but he does seem to apply a greater condemnation for the judgmental.
So, how should this affect our lives? Should believers condem the sins of non-believers? Should non believers say that their sins are not wrong? No, and No... But rather, believer should minister the love of God and let the Holy Spirit do the judging. However, neither should we call wrong right. It seems to be a fine line the believer is called to walk down, a line between judging and calling wrong right.
Prayer: Father help us to live right before, not out of fear of condemnation, but out of love for you! Let your hearts be filled with the love of God, and the Love of others.
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
2:1Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. 2But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. 3And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Observation: The last half of the first chapter of Romans is often used as a "List of Sin". That is, some say this is a list of things that are wrong to do. The clear reference to homosexuality is perhaps the most controversial. However, as I look at the context of this verse, I see that the "Who" that Paul is talking about is in verse 18. Paul is talking about those who "Hold the Truth in Unrighteousness" At the end of his "List" Paul makes it clear again in chapter 2 verse 1 that his is addressing hippocrites, this who judge others doing the same things they judge others for.
Application: Many have used this "List" as a list of Do's and Don'ts, and applied it to those who don't know God. That is not the context that the list was given in. If this list would be applied in context, it would be applied to believers who are judging others... and the application would be for those believers to not do the things that they are condemning others for. Later in Chapter 2, Paul is explicit in God's condemnation of the judgmental. However, he does not excuse the sinners, but he does seem to apply a greater condemnation for the judgmental.
So, how should this affect our lives? Should believers condem the sins of non-believers? Should non believers say that their sins are not wrong? No, and No... But rather, believer should minister the love of God and let the Holy Spirit do the judging. However, neither should we call wrong right. It seems to be a fine line the believer is called to walk down, a line between judging and calling wrong right.
Prayer: Father help us to live right before, not out of fear of condemnation, but out of love for you! Let your hearts be filled with the love of God, and the Love of others.
God's Will for Us
Scripture: Romans 1: 13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.
Observation: Verse 13 tells us that Paul wanted to come to Rome, but that he was forbidden or prevented. It is not clear from the information we are given what hindered him from travelling to Rome.
Application: Was this God's will for Paul to travel to Rome,and was Satan hindering him? Or was it Paul's will to travel to Rome, and God was hindering him? Both of these scenarios are interesting to consider. We know from other places in Paul's writing that God directed his travels and prevented him from going somewhere were he wanted to go. Personally, I believe that is what is happening here. Paul had a longing to travel to Rome and God had other purposes for him that were more urgent in the kingdom of God. What do we want to do? What does God want us to do? How would you know what God wants you to do? There are three great ways to understand what God wants for you, 1) Get in his Word, read his Word every day, 2) Prayer, two way Prayer with God. 3) Worship, Get in God's presence, Allow his Holy Spirit to minister to you. God's Word for you should always line up with his written word. You need to be very careful about hearing from God if you are not in fellowship with him.
Prayer: Father, Help us to hear your word. Help us to be obedient to your Word. Help us to walk in your love.
Observation: Verse 13 tells us that Paul wanted to come to Rome, but that he was forbidden or prevented. It is not clear from the information we are given what hindered him from travelling to Rome.
Application: Was this God's will for Paul to travel to Rome,and was Satan hindering him? Or was it Paul's will to travel to Rome, and God was hindering him? Both of these scenarios are interesting to consider. We know from other places in Paul's writing that God directed his travels and prevented him from going somewhere were he wanted to go. Personally, I believe that is what is happening here. Paul had a longing to travel to Rome and God had other purposes for him that were more urgent in the kingdom of God. What do we want to do? What does God want us to do? How would you know what God wants you to do? There are three great ways to understand what God wants for you, 1) Get in his Word, read his Word every day, 2) Prayer, two way Prayer with God. 3) Worship, Get in God's presence, Allow his Holy Spirit to minister to you. God's Word for you should always line up with his written word. You need to be very careful about hearing from God if you are not in fellowship with him.
Prayer: Father, Help us to hear your word. Help us to be obedient to your Word. Help us to walk in your love.
Imparting Spiritual Gifts
Scripture: Romans 1:11 11For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
Observation: no matter what your doctrine or position on spiritual gifts, it is clear in this scripture that the Apostle Paul wanted to share his spiritual gifts (charisma in the Greek) with the church in Rome. There have been many different doctrines spawned from this scripture. However, Paul clearly realized that he had something to give them that they needed. Further it is mentioned in the context of a urgent longing to travel to Rome.
Application: The gifts of God are meant to share. We have all been given gifts, and their purpose is to share. As we build each other up, we become more like Jesus. What are your spiritual gifts?
Prayer; Father, help us to be faithful in the sharing of our spiritual gifts. Amen
Observation: no matter what your doctrine or position on spiritual gifts, it is clear in this scripture that the Apostle Paul wanted to share his spiritual gifts (charisma in the Greek) with the church in Rome. There have been many different doctrines spawned from this scripture. However, Paul clearly realized that he had something to give them that they needed. Further it is mentioned in the context of a urgent longing to travel to Rome.
Application: The gifts of God are meant to share. We have all been given gifts, and their purpose is to share. As we build each other up, we become more like Jesus. What are your spiritual gifts?
Prayer; Father, help us to be faithful in the sharing of our spiritual gifts. Amen
Paul's prayer list
Scripture: Romans 1: 9-10 9For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; 10Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.
Observation: Evidently Paul had a prayer list. Verse 10 implies that Paul prayed specifically that he would have the opportunity to come to Rome. It is also implied that he prayed specifically for the church in Rome. Other scriptures corroborate that he prayed for his church plants throughout the world.
Application: It is fascinating to get a glimpse into the Apostle Paul's prayer list. Wouldn't you like to read all of his prayer lists? Would they not be insightful to help us develop our own prayer list. Do you have a prayer list? Do you pray? What do you pray for? Does it sound like what the Apostle Paul prayed for? Another interesting study is to look at what Jesus prayed for.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to be people of prayer. Help us to pray with fervency and passion. Help us to pray like you prayed, and like the Apostle Paul prayed.
Observation: Evidently Paul had a prayer list. Verse 10 implies that Paul prayed specifically that he would have the opportunity to come to Rome. It is also implied that he prayed specifically for the church in Rome. Other scriptures corroborate that he prayed for his church plants throughout the world.
Application: It is fascinating to get a glimpse into the Apostle Paul's prayer list. Wouldn't you like to read all of his prayer lists? Would they not be insightful to help us develop our own prayer list. Do you have a prayer list? Do you pray? What do you pray for? Does it sound like what the Apostle Paul prayed for? Another interesting study is to look at what Jesus prayed for.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to be people of prayer. Help us to pray with fervency and passion. Help us to pray like you prayed, and like the Apostle Paul prayed.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Word of God
Scripture: John 1:1-2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.
Observation: John 1:1-2 is a psalm, a song or poem in classical Greek chaistic form. The first and last phrases are pairs, and the middle two phrases are pairs. Each pair explains its partner, and the two pairs contrast and complement each other. The psalm establishes and meditates on the deity and preeminence of Jesus Christ, the Word of God. Jesus is both the creator of all things, and he is one with the father God. Jesus is the most high God, and he is before everything.
Application: Our God is a God of beginnings. When you have a problem in your life, and things are not going your way, our God is a God of new beginnings. Jesus is Lord of all, and he is in the business of new beginnings. If you need a new beginning in your life, turn to him. You have not, because you ask not. Give your situation, and your life to the God of new beginnings and let him make a new beginning for you and your situation.
Prayer: Heavenly father, give us this day our daily bread. Help us in our time of need. We cry out to you and declare our love to you. Know us and make known to us your ways. Take our lives and make them new. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Observation: John 1:1-2 is a psalm, a song or poem in classical Greek chaistic form. The first and last phrases are pairs, and the middle two phrases are pairs. Each pair explains its partner, and the two pairs contrast and complement each other. The psalm establishes and meditates on the deity and preeminence of Jesus Christ, the Word of God. Jesus is both the creator of all things, and he is one with the father God. Jesus is the most high God, and he is before everything.
Application: Our God is a God of beginnings. When you have a problem in your life, and things are not going your way, our God is a God of new beginnings. Jesus is Lord of all, and he is in the business of new beginnings. If you need a new beginning in your life, turn to him. You have not, because you ask not. Give your situation, and your life to the God of new beginnings and let him make a new beginning for you and your situation.
Prayer: Heavenly father, give us this day our daily bread. Help us in our time of need. We cry out to you and declare our love to you. Know us and make known to us your ways. Take our lives and make them new. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Our God is a good God
Scripture: Luke 19:41-44 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things [which belong] unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.
Observation: Here we see Jesus prophesying the destruction of Jerusalem which did occur in 70 AD. It is interesting that Jesus clearly linked the destruction of Jerusalem to the fact that they did not recognize that he was the Christ. There is a tendency in our culture to indict God, to say "how could a good and loving God do such terrible things". Clearly, thousands of infants and children lost their lives in horrible deaths when the Romans conquered Jerusalem. How could a good God do such a thing, or even allow it? Is not God sovereign? Notice Jesus' reaction as he prophesied the destruction. First he wept. This was not some divine retribution, where people sinned and God in his anger poured out his wrath on them. On the contrary, Jesus wept over the sin of the people of Jerusalem and the consequences that they would reap. But our good and loving God did not remove the consequences. Could he? Yes, but he would have had to gone against his own words when he established a covenant with Adam, which was renewed several times through Moses, Abraham, and others. God cannot lie, and if he would have forced his will on an unwilling Jerusalem, then he would have broken his word with them. And so, our loving father lets us suffer the consequences of our actions, because he created us like him ... with a free will. He created us sovereign, like he is sovereign. He weeps when we make mistakes, he helps us when we ask him to, but when we turn our backs to him, he allows us to make mistakes and suffer the consequences. He is also a redeeming God, he will take our mistakes and turn them into good if we ask him to.
Application: How then should we live? Since we serve a God who loves us, but loves us enough to let us suffer the consequences of our own mistakes? We have not, because we ask not. Let us always humble ourselves to God, ask him to help us and work in our lives. When we see the consequence of the fallen world we live in, let us not blame God... but rather let us ask for his redemptive power to make all things work together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. But what about the innocent, the children who suffer and die because of other people's sin. How can God allow this? We as God's hands and feet need to do everything we can to protect those who suffer because of others. And when we fail, let us not blame God, but rather let us ask his redemptive power to make things right and comfort those who are in need of comfort.
Prayer: Thank You Jesus for your love. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for each day we are given to serve you . Let us this day serve you with all of our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Give us this day our provision. May your love conquer all. May your love deliver those in bondage. May your love guide me in each step I take this day. Amen.
Observation: Here we see Jesus prophesying the destruction of Jerusalem which did occur in 70 AD. It is interesting that Jesus clearly linked the destruction of Jerusalem to the fact that they did not recognize that he was the Christ. There is a tendency in our culture to indict God, to say "how could a good and loving God do such terrible things". Clearly, thousands of infants and children lost their lives in horrible deaths when the Romans conquered Jerusalem. How could a good God do such a thing, or even allow it? Is not God sovereign? Notice Jesus' reaction as he prophesied the destruction. First he wept. This was not some divine retribution, where people sinned and God in his anger poured out his wrath on them. On the contrary, Jesus wept over the sin of the people of Jerusalem and the consequences that they would reap. But our good and loving God did not remove the consequences. Could he? Yes, but he would have had to gone against his own words when he established a covenant with Adam, which was renewed several times through Moses, Abraham, and others. God cannot lie, and if he would have forced his will on an unwilling Jerusalem, then he would have broken his word with them. And so, our loving father lets us suffer the consequences of our actions, because he created us like him ... with a free will. He created us sovereign, like he is sovereign. He weeps when we make mistakes, he helps us when we ask him to, but when we turn our backs to him, he allows us to make mistakes and suffer the consequences. He is also a redeeming God, he will take our mistakes and turn them into good if we ask him to.
Application: How then should we live? Since we serve a God who loves us, but loves us enough to let us suffer the consequences of our own mistakes? We have not, because we ask not. Let us always humble ourselves to God, ask him to help us and work in our lives. When we see the consequence of the fallen world we live in, let us not blame God... but rather let us ask for his redemptive power to make all things work together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. But what about the innocent, the children who suffer and die because of other people's sin. How can God allow this? We as God's hands and feet need to do everything we can to protect those who suffer because of others. And when we fail, let us not blame God, but rather let us ask his redemptive power to make things right and comfort those who are in need of comfort.
Prayer: Thank You Jesus for your love. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for each day we are given to serve you . Let us this day serve you with all of our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Give us this day our provision. May your love conquer all. May your love deliver those in bondage. May your love guide me in each step I take this day. Amen.
Friday, April 8, 2011
faithful in the little things
Scripture: Luke 16:1-14: And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward. Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed. I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses. So he called every one of his lord's debtors [unto him], and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord? And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore. And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]?And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.
Observation: At first it appears that Jesus is commending the steward for stealing from his master. However, as I understand the concept of stewardship in that day, the steward was entitled to do whatever he wanted to with the masters resources. The master's recourse, was to do as he did, and remove the steward's authority. Jesus used this concept of stewardship in other places for illustrations. It is liken to our relationship with Jesus Christ. Our lives are his, but he gives us full control of them and we are authorized to do whatever we want with them. But ultimately we will give an account to the master for our lives. The closest thing we have in our culture is a lease.
Application: Jesus is teaching us that we need to be mindful that our lease on life will be called. There is an end, and when that day comes we will give account for the things we have done. We need to be faithful in the little things, as well as the large.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for the gift of life that you have given us. Let us savor and live life to the fullest for you. Help us to keep our eyes focused on you, and let us be about your business. Let us use the resources you have given us for your business, and not our own.
Observation: At first it appears that Jesus is commending the steward for stealing from his master. However, as I understand the concept of stewardship in that day, the steward was entitled to do whatever he wanted to with the masters resources. The master's recourse, was to do as he did, and remove the steward's authority. Jesus used this concept of stewardship in other places for illustrations. It is liken to our relationship with Jesus Christ. Our lives are his, but he gives us full control of them and we are authorized to do whatever we want with them. But ultimately we will give an account to the master for our lives. The closest thing we have in our culture is a lease.
Application: Jesus is teaching us that we need to be mindful that our lease on life will be called. There is an end, and when that day comes we will give account for the things we have done. We need to be faithful in the little things, as well as the large.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for the gift of life that you have given us. Let us savor and live life to the fullest for you. Help us to keep our eyes focused on you, and let us be about your business. Let us use the resources you have given us for your business, and not our own.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Jesus is here!
Scripture - Luke 10:17-20 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.
Observation: The seventy disciples had just returned from ministering in various cities, and they were ecstatic that evil spirits and sickness were subject to their words, through the name of Jesus Christ. Wouldn't you be excited? How cool would it be to see the works of Jesus Christ being done through the words that came out of your mouth! It is interesting how Jesus responded when they told him this. He said that he saw Satan falling like lightning from the sky. When the disciples were miles away ministering in other cities, as they cast out a demon or healed a sick person, Jesus saw the battles being won in the spiritual realm. This somewhat analogous to a son calling up his father who lives out of town to tell him about the great baseball game that his team won, and the father telling him that he knew because he saw it all on television.
Application: In our lives with God, we tend to think in one of two ways. Either we think that God is somewhere out there, and we are somewhere else and that he is not really involved. Or we tend to think that God is micro managing all of our affairs, and if we could just fully submit to him that he would work great miracles in our lives. This scripture shows something different. Yes, the disciples did the works in Jesus Name, but Jesus was right there in the spirit. He was watching, authorizing, and ensuring that things spoken in his name came to pass. Jesus is active in our ministry, but Jesus is not ministering for us. We are ministering for him!
Prayer: Thank your Jesus that you have given us your name. We rejoice that you have given us authority on earth. Thank you that you never leave us. Let us trust in you in a new and deeper way this day. Amen!
Observation: The seventy disciples had just returned from ministering in various cities, and they were ecstatic that evil spirits and sickness were subject to their words, through the name of Jesus Christ. Wouldn't you be excited? How cool would it be to see the works of Jesus Christ being done through the words that came out of your mouth! It is interesting how Jesus responded when they told him this. He said that he saw Satan falling like lightning from the sky. When the disciples were miles away ministering in other cities, as they cast out a demon or healed a sick person, Jesus saw the battles being won in the spiritual realm. This somewhat analogous to a son calling up his father who lives out of town to tell him about the great baseball game that his team won, and the father telling him that he knew because he saw it all on television.
Application: In our lives with God, we tend to think in one of two ways. Either we think that God is somewhere out there, and we are somewhere else and that he is not really involved. Or we tend to think that God is micro managing all of our affairs, and if we could just fully submit to him that he would work great miracles in our lives. This scripture shows something different. Yes, the disciples did the works in Jesus Name, but Jesus was right there in the spirit. He was watching, authorizing, and ensuring that things spoken in his name came to pass. Jesus is active in our ministry, but Jesus is not ministering for us. We are ministering for him!
Prayer: Thank your Jesus that you have given us your name. We rejoice that you have given us authority on earth. Thank you that you never leave us. Let us trust in you in a new and deeper way this day. Amen!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
The wrath of God
Scripture: Luke 9:54-56 And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save [them]. And they went to another village.
Observation: The disciples had assumed that Jesus would pour out his wrath on those who dishonored him. Their assumption was based on what God did in the past. He did destroy towns and people groups in the past. Why the change? Why was the ministry of Jesus different than the ministry prior to Jesus?
Application: Many people today make the same assumption that the disciples did. People assume that God is out to get somebody. People attribute natural disasters to the wrath of God. People go so far as the attribute the death of children to God's actions, and so on. Jesus clearly states that he came to save lives, not to take them. John 10:10 tells us that it is Satan who comes to steal, kill, and destroy, and that Jesus is come that we have life. The difference between the God of the old testament and the God of the new testament is the work of Christ at the cross. He took the wrath of God for us, and we are not subject to it any more. He gave his life for ours. The ministry of Jesus exemplified this fact.
Prayer: Dearest Jesus, thank you for what you did for us at the cross. Thank you for giving your life so that we can have an abundant life in you. Thank you for taking our punishment upon yourselves. Thank you that you became forgiveness for our sins. We accept you, and devote our lives to serving you with the honor you deserve.
Observation: The disciples had assumed that Jesus would pour out his wrath on those who dishonored him. Their assumption was based on what God did in the past. He did destroy towns and people groups in the past. Why the change? Why was the ministry of Jesus different than the ministry prior to Jesus?
Application: Many people today make the same assumption that the disciples did. People assume that God is out to get somebody. People attribute natural disasters to the wrath of God. People go so far as the attribute the death of children to God's actions, and so on. Jesus clearly states that he came to save lives, not to take them. John 10:10 tells us that it is Satan who comes to steal, kill, and destroy, and that Jesus is come that we have life. The difference between the God of the old testament and the God of the new testament is the work of Christ at the cross. He took the wrath of God for us, and we are not subject to it any more. He gave his life for ours. The ministry of Jesus exemplified this fact.
Prayer: Dearest Jesus, thank you for what you did for us at the cross. Thank you for giving your life so that we can have an abundant life in you. Thank you for taking our punishment upon yourselves. Thank you that you became forgiveness for our sins. We accept you, and devote our lives to serving you with the honor you deserve.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Trust Him
Scripture: Luke 5:4-11 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. And they beckoned unto [their] partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw [it], he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: And so [was] also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.
Observation: Peter was a fisherman. Peter was also the owner of a fishing business. Peter was the boss. Peter knew fishing. Jesus was a carpenter, and a Rabbi. When Jesus told Peter to let down his nets, it did not make sense. And yet, Peter trusted Jesus. Jesus spoke to Peter through this act in a way that cut to his very soul. It showed Peter that Jesus was God. Only God could have done what Jesus did.
Application: Do we trust Jesus? Do we trust him with our business? Do we trust him with our families? Do we trust him with our ministries? Have we fully given our lives and livelihood to him? If we give our trust to him, he will show us that he is God in a way that speaks to our soul.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you that you love me. Thank you for this day that you have given us. Let me live my life this day for you, and only for you. Let me trust you with all that I have and all that I am. Let it all be yours. Let me decrease, so that you can increase. Amen.
Observation: Peter was a fisherman. Peter was also the owner of a fishing business. Peter was the boss. Peter knew fishing. Jesus was a carpenter, and a Rabbi. When Jesus told Peter to let down his nets, it did not make sense. And yet, Peter trusted Jesus. Jesus spoke to Peter through this act in a way that cut to his very soul. It showed Peter that Jesus was God. Only God could have done what Jesus did.
Application: Do we trust Jesus? Do we trust him with our business? Do we trust him with our families? Do we trust him with our ministries? Have we fully given our lives and livelihood to him? If we give our trust to him, he will show us that he is God in a way that speaks to our soul.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you that you love me. Thank you for this day that you have given us. Let me live my life this day for you, and only for you. Let me trust you with all that I have and all that I am. Let it all be yours. Let me decrease, so that you can increase. Amen.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Pray
Scripture: Luke 5:3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's,and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.
Observation: Often our understanding of scripture depends on our language. When we think of prayer, we think of someone bowing their heads, perhaps folding their hands or kneeling, and speaking reverently to God. The word "Pray" does not have that connotation at all. Here Jesus commanded them to push the boat out into the water so that he could preach.
Application: We should pray like Jesus prayed. When we pray, we should ask or command fully expecting that it be done, and if it is not done, we should make sure it gets done! When we are his, Jesus has given us authority to ask whatever we want in his name, and that it would be done! (John 15:7). Jesus didn't say " Oh heavenly father, if it be thy will, please move the boat out in the water" Rather he said, push the boat out into th water so that I can teach the people.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Let us be one with you, and let us be in you and you in us. Let us pray with authority as your word says we should. Let our words be your words, and may you abide in us always. In Jesus Name!
Observation: Often our understanding of scripture depends on our language. When we think of prayer, we think of someone bowing their heads, perhaps folding their hands or kneeling, and speaking reverently to God. The word "Pray" does not have that connotation at all. Here Jesus commanded them to push the boat out into the water so that he could preach.
Application: We should pray like Jesus prayed. When we pray, we should ask or command fully expecting that it be done, and if it is not done, we should make sure it gets done! When we are his, Jesus has given us authority to ask whatever we want in his name, and that it would be done! (John 15:7). Jesus didn't say " Oh heavenly father, if it be thy will, please move the boat out in the water" Rather he said, push the boat out into th water so that I can teach the people.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Let us be one with you, and let us be in you and you in us. Let us pray with authority as your word says we should. Let our words be your words, and may you abide in us always. In Jesus Name!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Powerful Word
Scripture: Luke 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.
Observation - Jesus spoke with great power, and with the authority of all mighty God. Wouldn't you like to hear him speak? God in his sovereignty has preserved the words of Jesus, and we can hear them today... just as they did 2000 years ago.
Application - The words of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as recorded in scripture carry the same power as when they were spoken and recorded. The word of God is powerful, and we, by his spirit, carry the same authority of Jesus Christ when we are in alignment with his word. As believers we should consume his word, and we should utilize his word for his purposes.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I love you Lord. Keep me this day in the center of your will. Let me walk in your authority and power through your word and your spirit. Keep me humble, and yet let me walk with your authority. Amen
Observation - Jesus spoke with great power, and with the authority of all mighty God. Wouldn't you like to hear him speak? God in his sovereignty has preserved the words of Jesus, and we can hear them today... just as they did 2000 years ago.
Application - The words of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as recorded in scripture carry the same power as when they were spoken and recorded. The word of God is powerful, and we, by his spirit, carry the same authority of Jesus Christ when we are in alignment with his word. As believers we should consume his word, and we should utilize his word for his purposes.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I love you Lord. Keep me this day in the center of your will. Let me walk in your authority and power through your word and your spirit. Keep me humble, and yet let me walk with your authority. Amen
Friday, March 4, 2011
Are You the Christ?
Scripture: Luke 3:15 - And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;
Observation: John the Baptist preached a hard word, of repentance from sin and sacrificial giving. His message was much like Christ, but different. We don't have record in the scripture of John doing great miracles like Jesus did, and yet we see that the people questioned whether he was the Christ or not.
Application: There seems to be a similarity between the message of John, and what we preach today... and the contrast to the message of Jesus Christ. Just as they ask of John ... One could ask of us, the Church, whether we are the Christ? Is the Church today the hands and feet of Jesus, or are we as John preparing for the return of Jesus Christ, or both?
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your word. Thank you that you have given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. Thank you for your goodness. Help us to be found faithful to you. Let us be loyal and true to you in all things. Amen
Observation: John the Baptist preached a hard word, of repentance from sin and sacrificial giving. His message was much like Christ, but different. We don't have record in the scripture of John doing great miracles like Jesus did, and yet we see that the people questioned whether he was the Christ or not.
Application: There seems to be a similarity between the message of John, and what we preach today... and the contrast to the message of Jesus Christ. Just as they ask of John ... One could ask of us, the Church, whether we are the Christ? Is the Church today the hands and feet of Jesus, or are we as John preparing for the return of Jesus Christ, or both?
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your word. Thank you that you have given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. Thank you for your goodness. Help us to be found faithful to you. Let us be loyal and true to you in all things. Amen
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Grace to You
Scripture: Luke 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
Observation: Here we see young Jesus, and one of the few descriptions of his childhood. Luke says that he grew strong in the spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him. We know what Jesus did, his works, his ministry, how is it that the Grace of God is what enabled him? And is that the same Grace of God that is ours in Christ Jesus?
Application: Ephesians 4:7 says "unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of Christ". Is the same grace that empowered a young Jesus into his ministry the same grace that is given unto us as his followers?
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your grace, that you gave to us. Let us walk in the grace that you gave us each day. Let your ministry be our ministry. Let our hands be as your hands. Let our hearts be as your heart. Fill us anew this day with your grace. Let the peace of God, and his grace be upon us this day. Amen
Observation: Here we see young Jesus, and one of the few descriptions of his childhood. Luke says that he grew strong in the spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him. We know what Jesus did, his works, his ministry, how is it that the Grace of God is what enabled him? And is that the same Grace of God that is ours in Christ Jesus?
Application: Ephesians 4:7 says "unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of Christ". Is the same grace that empowered a young Jesus into his ministry the same grace that is given unto us as his followers?
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your grace, that you gave to us. Let us walk in the grace that you gave us each day. Let your ministry be our ministry. Let our hands be as your hands. Let our hearts be as your heart. Fill us anew this day with your grace. Let the peace of God, and his grace be upon us this day. Amen
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