Matthew 24:40-42 “Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”
Jesus not only is a risen savior but He is coming back to get those He loves and who know Him. In Matthew24: 31 we find what Jesus said was going to happen when he returns. He will give instructions to His angels to gather his elect from the four corners of the earth. His elect, who could He be talking about? He is talking about those who are washed in the blood of Calvary. The saved born again children of God. How will the angels know who are His elect? They will look for the blood. They will check to see if the name is written in the Lambs Book of Life. That is all they will be checking for. Nothing else will matter, not wealth, not political status, not church membership, or civic standing. Only the blood washed will be considered and gathered.
1 Thessalonians 4: 16-17, “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
Those who do not know Christ will not rise to meet Him. We have all heard preachers say if you are not saved you won’t get to go. If the angels are instructed to gather only the elect and those who are in Christ shall rise to meet Him what about the rest? So what is going to happen the day after He comes back?
A great and terrible day is about to dawn. The wrath of God will be unleashed upon mankind for his sin and disbelief. If you think the destruction caused by spring storms was bad you aint seen nothing yet. Ok so you don’t think that is true, well my friend if you are not among those gathered try to show the angels your good works or your degrees or your traditions you cannot let go of. Tell them how good you have been and how sorry you are for not listening to God’s message, see how far that takes you. Your jealously, hate and disbelief will condemn you. Jesus will say depart from me for I never knew you. No one really wants to hear those words yet many will. Will you hear those words? Will you be left behind to experience the great tribulation where death and destruction will be the norm and there truly will be no peace?
There is still time to be able to go when Jesus calls. Seek His forgiveness according to God’s Word. Ask Jesus to come into your heart confess with your mouth and believe in your heart. Romans 10:9-10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Bottom line is if you can’t or won’t do that then you don’t get to go when He calls. You got to know Him for Him to know you. He is the way the truth and the life no one comes to the Father but through Him. Your choice; you can stay or you can go.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Trusting God
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
The more you know God, the more you will trust Him. What is there not to trust? He is all powerful, has all the wisdom, and loves us beyond belief. Most every one expresses a belief in God, yet very few actually trust Him. Trusting the Lord with all your heart means walking out, by faith, on His word, no matter what consequences or opposition you may face. As Israel was about to cross Jordan into the promised land two things had to happen, one the priest had to trust God to part the waters and two the people had to believe God’s promise.
Trusting God wholeheartedly also means we are not to lean on our own knowledge and understanding. Now that does not mean we are to give up the sound mind and reasoning spirit that God has give us. But it does mean that we are not to rely on our limited knowledge, experience, and emotions to guide us safely through life. Israel knew the river was at flood stage, they knew there was no safe place to cross. They also knew the folks on the other side did not like them. Their natural instinct told them to stay put. Had they relied on their natural emotions they would have not crossed the river and would not have received the blessings God had planned for them. The water did not part until the sole of the foot of the priest touched the surface of the water. God did His part now Israel had to do their part.
The question we need to ask ourselves is this: do we trust God to do what he says, that He knows where He is going and that He will supply our needs? We are not to analyze or rationalize God’s leadership with man’s natural inclination for if we do then we will be inclined to not follow God. The bible clearly spells out His councils and directs us to follow regardless of our personal preferences or preconceptions. If we use those as our guide we are lease apt to follow God’s leadership. It is precisely at times like these we are least inclined to listen to God or follow where He leads.
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
The more you know God, the more you will trust Him. What is there not to trust? He is all powerful, has all the wisdom, and loves us beyond belief. Most every one expresses a belief in God, yet very few actually trust Him. Trusting the Lord with all your heart means walking out, by faith, on His word, no matter what consequences or opposition you may face. As Israel was about to cross Jordan into the promised land two things had to happen, one the priest had to trust God to part the waters and two the people had to believe God’s promise.
Trusting God wholeheartedly also means we are not to lean on our own knowledge and understanding. Now that does not mean we are to give up the sound mind and reasoning spirit that God has give us. But it does mean that we are not to rely on our limited knowledge, experience, and emotions to guide us safely through life. Israel knew the river was at flood stage, they knew there was no safe place to cross. They also knew the folks on the other side did not like them. Their natural instinct told them to stay put. Had they relied on their natural emotions they would have not crossed the river and would not have received the blessings God had planned for them. The water did not part until the sole of the foot of the priest touched the surface of the water. God did His part now Israel had to do their part.
The question we need to ask ourselves is this: do we trust God to do what he says, that He knows where He is going and that He will supply our needs? We are not to analyze or rationalize God’s leadership with man’s natural inclination for if we do then we will be inclined to not follow God. The bible clearly spells out His councils and directs us to follow regardless of our personal preferences or preconceptions. If we use those as our guide we are lease apt to follow God’s leadership. It is precisely at times like these we are least inclined to listen to God or follow where He leads.
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Walking With Wise Men
Proverbs 13:20, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”
Proverbs gives us many things we can use to structure our lives around. Some give us insight as well as warnings. It is interesting that this verse speaks with purposeful direction in both the positive and negative direction.
He that walks with the wise will surely be wise. Churches and universities are filled with wise people. Wisdom will not magically rub off when we find ourselves around wise individuals. If it did then we would not see people turn away from the wisdom of God’s Word to the foolish pursuits of the world. Churches are full of wise people both intellectually and spiritually. Yet even with all the wisdom found in church we have all seen many walk with the world instead of with Christ.
It is not simply being around wise people that make us wise---it is walking with them. It is a conscious choice to learn from, agree with, and live by the wisdom one sees. It is walking in the light of the wisdom and counsel they show us.
This verse also shows what will happen when we choose to walk as a companion with fools. This is a lesson we all have seen and may have experienced first hand. A companion of fools will be destroyed.
Let us look at the warning in this proverb, because success or failure depends on the friendships we choose to form. We have hope because we can choose with whom we will walk, who our companions and confidents will be. How many times have we heard someone say they are good kids they just ran with the wrong crowd? Choose your friends carefully for they may be pulling you the wrong way. He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools will be destroyed.
Proverbs gives us many things we can use to structure our lives around. Some give us insight as well as warnings. It is interesting that this verse speaks with purposeful direction in both the positive and negative direction.
He that walks with the wise will surely be wise. Churches and universities are filled with wise people. Wisdom will not magically rub off when we find ourselves around wise individuals. If it did then we would not see people turn away from the wisdom of God’s Word to the foolish pursuits of the world. Churches are full of wise people both intellectually and spiritually. Yet even with all the wisdom found in church we have all seen many walk with the world instead of with Christ.
It is not simply being around wise people that make us wise---it is walking with them. It is a conscious choice to learn from, agree with, and live by the wisdom one sees. It is walking in the light of the wisdom and counsel they show us.
This verse also shows what will happen when we choose to walk as a companion with fools. This is a lesson we all have seen and may have experienced first hand. A companion of fools will be destroyed.
Let us look at the warning in this proverb, because success or failure depends on the friendships we choose to form. We have hope because we can choose with whom we will walk, who our companions and confidents will be. How many times have we heard someone say they are good kids they just ran with the wrong crowd? Choose your friends carefully for they may be pulling you the wrong way. He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools will be destroyed.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
God Maker of Mountains
Psalms 102:25-27
Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed:
But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.
Have you ever really looked at a mountain? When you look at a mountain do you only see a large mound of dirt and rock or do you see a work of God’s hand. Think of a mountain. Imagine its high soaring peaks and crags, its deep valleys and dense forests. Imagine its age, with some of its trees being hundreds of years old, not to mention the rock itself. A thing as daunting as a mountain can seem unchangeable, almost permanent. Yet with the wave of God’s hand it can disappear.
It is more than something to walk over or go around or stand on top of. In truth a mountain is a living breathing creation of God. It is alive and ever changing. It is home to many of God’s creatures. Valleys are carved by the flowing of streams and blowing of the wind. The panoramas of peaks we enjoy are sculpted slowly, over thousands of years, into their present grandeur. Now, while a thousand years may seem a long time to us. In 2 Peter 3:8 we are told, “But beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as a day.” Our God is ever living, eternal, and truly unchangeable. He is also all powerful and is in control.
Many go the mountain top seeking God. It was once said that God gives us mountains to teach us how to climb. I feel He also give us mountains, both physical and spiritual, so that we can be drawn closer to Him. Are the mountains the only place we can find God? Of course not but we may have to climb a mountain to gain complete understanding. Yea though I walk through the valley He is my guide. For in the valley we may be weak but there He is the strongest. God is always there no matter where we walk. We have but to take His hand.
As the ages of men change, as the problems and persecutions shift, and our lives transition from consistency to catastrophe, God is there and interested in who we are and what we do. Our God exists: apart from the changing seasons, apart from the rising sun and setting moon, apart from a nation’s wealth and dominance, apart from our personal prosperity or poverty. He can make a sun rise bringing light to the world with all its vibrant colors and hues. It is short lived and is never the same again. Yet God can make another more beautiful than the one before and each is original. He can take a wrenched sinner and turn them into a powerful force for His glory. He is the potter and we are the clay.
Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed:
But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.
Have you ever really looked at a mountain? When you look at a mountain do you only see a large mound of dirt and rock or do you see a work of God’s hand. Think of a mountain. Imagine its high soaring peaks and crags, its deep valleys and dense forests. Imagine its age, with some of its trees being hundreds of years old, not to mention the rock itself. A thing as daunting as a mountain can seem unchangeable, almost permanent. Yet with the wave of God’s hand it can disappear.
It is more than something to walk over or go around or stand on top of. In truth a mountain is a living breathing creation of God. It is alive and ever changing. It is home to many of God’s creatures. Valleys are carved by the flowing of streams and blowing of the wind. The panoramas of peaks we enjoy are sculpted slowly, over thousands of years, into their present grandeur. Now, while a thousand years may seem a long time to us. In 2 Peter 3:8 we are told, “But beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as a day.” Our God is ever living, eternal, and truly unchangeable. He is also all powerful and is in control.
Many go the mountain top seeking God. It was once said that God gives us mountains to teach us how to climb. I feel He also give us mountains, both physical and spiritual, so that we can be drawn closer to Him. Are the mountains the only place we can find God? Of course not but we may have to climb a mountain to gain complete understanding. Yea though I walk through the valley He is my guide. For in the valley we may be weak but there He is the strongest. God is always there no matter where we walk. We have but to take His hand.
As the ages of men change, as the problems and persecutions shift, and our lives transition from consistency to catastrophe, God is there and interested in who we are and what we do. Our God exists: apart from the changing seasons, apart from the rising sun and setting moon, apart from a nation’s wealth and dominance, apart from our personal prosperity or poverty. He can make a sun rise bringing light to the world with all its vibrant colors and hues. It is short lived and is never the same again. Yet God can make another more beautiful than the one before and each is original. He can take a wrenched sinner and turn them into a powerful force for His glory. He is the potter and we are the clay.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
What Do You Know
Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but the fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Where does knowledge come from? How do we get it? These are great questions and are filled with many avenues and direction. The first thing that many schools throw out of any discussion or pursuit of knowledge is God. When we want to know about anything we usually look to the designer and maker to learn how it works or how it will benefit us. Yet in this verse we see the beginning of knowledge begins with the fear of the Lord. We cannot hope to attain any real understanding of our world, its purpose, or our place in it without first turning to and learning from God. He is after all the creator of all things. The fool looks at material things and therefore assumes things about God; the wise person looks at God and therefore assumes things about material things.
Is the window you look at the world through flawed by a traditional blemish in the window? Is your window clouded with sin that blinds you to God’s glory? Or do you look at the world through the lens of God’s Word and with a fearsome understanding that it was created for the glory of God? If you do then intellectual pursuits, family relationships, job opportunities, and every other area of life will fit into place. If on the other hand you do not begin with fear of the Lord, then life will appear to be like a cross word puzzle with an incorrect word written in the middle; nothing will fit properly.
If you are getting some wrong answers, that don’t seem to fit or solve the problems in your life, try erasing all your answers and replacing them with God’s. Remember, God is the maker and creator of all. He has given us the rule book by which we are to live and He alone gives us the ability to learn how to use the knowledge in His Word. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.
Where does knowledge come from? How do we get it? These are great questions and are filled with many avenues and direction. The first thing that many schools throw out of any discussion or pursuit of knowledge is God. When we want to know about anything we usually look to the designer and maker to learn how it works or how it will benefit us. Yet in this verse we see the beginning of knowledge begins with the fear of the Lord. We cannot hope to attain any real understanding of our world, its purpose, or our place in it without first turning to and learning from God. He is after all the creator of all things. The fool looks at material things and therefore assumes things about God; the wise person looks at God and therefore assumes things about material things.
Is the window you look at the world through flawed by a traditional blemish in the window? Is your window clouded with sin that blinds you to God’s glory? Or do you look at the world through the lens of God’s Word and with a fearsome understanding that it was created for the glory of God? If you do then intellectual pursuits, family relationships, job opportunities, and every other area of life will fit into place. If on the other hand you do not begin with fear of the Lord, then life will appear to be like a cross word puzzle with an incorrect word written in the middle; nothing will fit properly.
If you are getting some wrong answers, that don’t seem to fit or solve the problems in your life, try erasing all your answers and replacing them with God’s. Remember, God is the maker and creator of all. He has given us the rule book by which we are to live and He alone gives us the ability to learn how to use the knowledge in His Word. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.
Monday, April 25, 2011
What Is Your Aim
Philippians 3:13-14
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
There was a story some years ago about a man who was taken before a Justice of Peace. What was so interesting about this common occurrence was what he was charged with. His charge was not a serious crime, he was just found wandering in the fields. He was asked where he was going; he said he did not know. Questioned as to where he lived he stated he did not have a home. So he was brought before the JP and charged with wandering. The reasoning behind this charge was explained that this man appeared to be a dangerous lunatic. He had not harmed anyone nor did he have any intention to do so. It just appeared to the world this man had no aim or direction.
There are many who today have no aim. They are passing through life without any apparent direction---wandering aimlessly. They take but never are willing to give back.
Have you ever seen land where all that the land could yield was taken and nothing was ever replaced? What then is left is barren, unfruitful and wasted land. This pictures many lives today.
To know Christ, and to give one’s life to service, means to have aim and purpose in life. Paul shows us he had aim and purpose. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Paul is not talking about salvation, he already knew Jesus as personal savior. He is speaking of finding purpose in life. His goal was set high and with God’s grace he was reaching for the stars. Paul had direction and purpose. He was not just wandering through life taking all he could and never giving back. “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:20-21
As the man charged with wandering appeared to be a dangerous lunatic, so may any today so appear who wander about with no real direction or purpose. God created each with special talents and He fully expects those talents to be used for His glory. Paul makes it clear what his aim is, “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
A live surrendered to Christ is one worth living. Without Christ there is no hope, with Him we have live and that life is abundant.
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
There was a story some years ago about a man who was taken before a Justice of Peace. What was so interesting about this common occurrence was what he was charged with. His charge was not a serious crime, he was just found wandering in the fields. He was asked where he was going; he said he did not know. Questioned as to where he lived he stated he did not have a home. So he was brought before the JP and charged with wandering. The reasoning behind this charge was explained that this man appeared to be a dangerous lunatic. He had not harmed anyone nor did he have any intention to do so. It just appeared to the world this man had no aim or direction.
There are many who today have no aim. They are passing through life without any apparent direction---wandering aimlessly. They take but never are willing to give back.
Have you ever seen land where all that the land could yield was taken and nothing was ever replaced? What then is left is barren, unfruitful and wasted land. This pictures many lives today.
To know Christ, and to give one’s life to service, means to have aim and purpose in life. Paul shows us he had aim and purpose. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Paul is not talking about salvation, he already knew Jesus as personal savior. He is speaking of finding purpose in life. His goal was set high and with God’s grace he was reaching for the stars. Paul had direction and purpose. He was not just wandering through life taking all he could and never giving back. “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:20-21
As the man charged with wandering appeared to be a dangerous lunatic, so may any today so appear who wander about with no real direction or purpose. God created each with special talents and He fully expects those talents to be used for His glory. Paul makes it clear what his aim is, “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
A live surrendered to Christ is one worth living. Without Christ there is no hope, with Him we have live and that life is abundant.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Jesus Rose From the Dead
Matthew 28: 5-6, “And the angel answered and said unto the women, fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Com and see the place where the Lord lay.”
When Jesus rose from the dead it defied logic and reasoning. It did in His day and it still does today. Yet should we deny His resurrection we also make false a large number of scriptures which speak otherwise. There are many today who simply do not believe this happened. Satan has filled their minds with doubt and confusion. If the Biblical account of the resurrection of Jesus were not true, then He was not the virgin born Son of God. Without it His death on the cross was meaningless to us. The Apostle Paul spoke plainly about this idea when he wrote, “And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.” 1Corinthians 15:14 He went on to say, “And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:17
When God devised the plan to send His son to die as a sacrifice for the sin of mankind He singled Christ out and made Him different from all the others who lived and died. A survey taken of ministerial students several years ago found that 70% did not believe Jesus actually came out of the grave. Those who were students then are filling pulpits now. It is not wonder there is so much confusion in the church today.
While the testimony of the scriptures might not have much meaning to those who find it easy to deny “Thus saith the Lord,” still to us, they are the final and ultimate witness to what truth really is. Let us examine but a few passages that to the open mind should prove the resurrection is real beyond a shadow of a doubt.
1. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 tells us Jesus was seen by at least five hundred twenty three people after He came out of the grave. The testimony of theses many witnesses would hold up in a court of law. Why then will it not stand in the mind of those who profess to be religious leaders?
2. 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 Paul ties the truth of the resurrection up with all the hopes of the children of God. If it were not true then all religion is vain.
3. 1 Corinthians 15:20 plainly declares, “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept.” His resurrection assures our resurrection.
4. Romans 1:4 Paul uses this truth to declare Jesus to be the Son of God.
5. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 Christ’s resurrection is the basis of salvation and being with Jesus when He comes with all His saints.
6. Acts 1:3 Jesus is the One who “showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs.” Just to prove He did what he said He showed Himself too many witnesses.
Scriptures like these could be multiplied, but these few should give a clear picture Jesus is alive and well. We are instructed to worship Him in spirit and truth. Not man made truth but the truth of God, the creator of all and the ultimate judge. Believe it or not Jesus rose from the grave on the third day and did so that we could be free.
When Jesus rose from the dead it defied logic and reasoning. It did in His day and it still does today. Yet should we deny His resurrection we also make false a large number of scriptures which speak otherwise. There are many today who simply do not believe this happened. Satan has filled their minds with doubt and confusion. If the Biblical account of the resurrection of Jesus were not true, then He was not the virgin born Son of God. Without it His death on the cross was meaningless to us. The Apostle Paul spoke plainly about this idea when he wrote, “And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.” 1Corinthians 15:14 He went on to say, “And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.” 1 Corinthians 15:17
When God devised the plan to send His son to die as a sacrifice for the sin of mankind He singled Christ out and made Him different from all the others who lived and died. A survey taken of ministerial students several years ago found that 70% did not believe Jesus actually came out of the grave. Those who were students then are filling pulpits now. It is not wonder there is so much confusion in the church today.
While the testimony of the scriptures might not have much meaning to those who find it easy to deny “Thus saith the Lord,” still to us, they are the final and ultimate witness to what truth really is. Let us examine but a few passages that to the open mind should prove the resurrection is real beyond a shadow of a doubt.
1. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 tells us Jesus was seen by at least five hundred twenty three people after He came out of the grave. The testimony of theses many witnesses would hold up in a court of law. Why then will it not stand in the mind of those who profess to be religious leaders?
2. 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 Paul ties the truth of the resurrection up with all the hopes of the children of God. If it were not true then all religion is vain.
3. 1 Corinthians 15:20 plainly declares, “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept.” His resurrection assures our resurrection.
4. Romans 1:4 Paul uses this truth to declare Jesus to be the Son of God.
5. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 Christ’s resurrection is the basis of salvation and being with Jesus when He comes with all His saints.
6. Acts 1:3 Jesus is the One who “showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs.” Just to prove He did what he said He showed Himself too many witnesses.
Scriptures like these could be multiplied, but these few should give a clear picture Jesus is alive and well. We are instructed to worship Him in spirit and truth. Not man made truth but the truth of God, the creator of all and the ultimate judge. Believe it or not Jesus rose from the grave on the third day and did so that we could be free.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Jesus Our Sin-Bearer
1 Peter 2:24, “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by those strips ye were healed.”
On the day some are calling Good Friday let us examine what had just happened. The Lamb of God had just been offered as a sacrifice for us. He had been killed by jealous religious men but His death was foretold and had a purpose. It would be easy to construct the whole plan of redemption around the words “He bore our sins.” These four simple words carry great weight for they express what Jesus has done for us.
When we hear that Jesus bore in his own body bore our sins we automatically have a vision of a load, or burden. The Bible calls sin a heavy burden. Man was never intended to carry the heavy load of sin. Yet man feels he is capable to carry this heavy load. That load can be described as a death penalty. It also carries the power to convict and separate us from God. This is the burden Jesus bore for us on Calvary’s tree. God already knew that sin was going to be heavier than any man could bear, so He sent His son to carry all our sins. Not just the sins of those who wanted Him dead but the sins of the entire population of the planet; then and now. John the Baptist introduced Jesus to us when he said, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John1:29
Before Jesus could be our sin-bearer he had to identify with us. He had to become flesh and feel the pain we feel, feel the frustration we feel, face the temptations we face, but he also had to be free of sin. He did not experience sin as we do but he had to understand it. He then knew the weight of the burden He must carry. Paul talks about this in Hebrews 2:14. “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of the flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death that is the devil.”
As Jesus hung between heaven and earth and looked into the eyes of those who accused him, try to imagine what must have been going through the minds of the chief priest and elders as they watched Jesus die. As Jesus hung on the tree in mortal pain the sin of the world tearing at his soul; He looked not only at the ones who stood by to watch him die but he looked at you and me when he said, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do”.
There are still those who do not believe Jesus bore our sin but was simply a martyr for a cause. God’s Word is clear, saying “The chastisement of our peace was upon him” Isaiah 53:5. The Lamb of God was offered as a sacrifice for t lost world.
On the day some are calling Good Friday let us examine what had just happened. The Lamb of God had just been offered as a sacrifice for us. He had been killed by jealous religious men but His death was foretold and had a purpose. It would be easy to construct the whole plan of redemption around the words “He bore our sins.” These four simple words carry great weight for they express what Jesus has done for us.
When we hear that Jesus bore in his own body bore our sins we automatically have a vision of a load, or burden. The Bible calls sin a heavy burden. Man was never intended to carry the heavy load of sin. Yet man feels he is capable to carry this heavy load. That load can be described as a death penalty. It also carries the power to convict and separate us from God. This is the burden Jesus bore for us on Calvary’s tree. God already knew that sin was going to be heavier than any man could bear, so He sent His son to carry all our sins. Not just the sins of those who wanted Him dead but the sins of the entire population of the planet; then and now. John the Baptist introduced Jesus to us when he said, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John1:29
Before Jesus could be our sin-bearer he had to identify with us. He had to become flesh and feel the pain we feel, feel the frustration we feel, face the temptations we face, but he also had to be free of sin. He did not experience sin as we do but he had to understand it. He then knew the weight of the burden He must carry. Paul talks about this in Hebrews 2:14. “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of the flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death that is the devil.”
As Jesus hung between heaven and earth and looked into the eyes of those who accused him, try to imagine what must have been going through the minds of the chief priest and elders as they watched Jesus die. As Jesus hung on the tree in mortal pain the sin of the world tearing at his soul; He looked not only at the ones who stood by to watch him die but he looked at you and me when he said, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do”.
There are still those who do not believe Jesus bore our sin but was simply a martyr for a cause. God’s Word is clear, saying “The chastisement of our peace was upon him” Isaiah 53:5. The Lamb of God was offered as a sacrifice for t lost world.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
What If I Don't Forgive
Matthew 18:34-35, “ and his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your heart forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Forgiveness is a two way street. As believers we often lose many spiritual blessings we should be enjoying. The question comes to mind if I don’t want to forgive some one what then, will God punish me; will God send me to hell? If Christ was invited into your heart and you accepted Him as savior hell will not be a place you will go. Will you lose blessings? It appears so. If a believer elects not to forgive another for what ever reason then I believe Jesus is showing us what will happen. In the story Jesus mentioned the one who would not forgive the debt owed him as his debt was forgiven was turned over to the tormentors till he should pay all. It did not mention being cast our or put in prison. Having an unforgiving spirit is a sin. Sin will rob us of our joy. David prayed Lord restore unto me the joy of thy salvation. Could it be that a very large number of unhappy believers found in the church today are unhappy because they can’t or won’t forgive another? The unhappy child of God will find it difficult to be satisfied with spiritual things when they are not right with God in their heart. When the right relationship is restored with the Lord the result will be peace and happiness. Jesus said by their fruits ye shall know them. If a person has a sour spirit it will show. What could cause a child of God to have a sour spirit? Unforgiveness!
You might be surprised how your church would look if only you asked the Lord to take away your overly critical spirit and attitude, and give you a heart of real love for Him and others. What then was Jesus talking about when he said this man was turned over to the tormentors? The torments of an evil conscience and a proud covetous heart are never small, nor are they few. Nor are they secluded to the believer they will affect all around them. If someone had a grudge against another they can’t be comfortable in the others presence. Why? Guilty conscience I guess. Maybe they are always looking for what’s wrong and critical of everything. You can’t change the world around you until you change the world within you. There is a way of escape from these things. In 1 John 1:9 we find, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
So then what must we do? First we must forgive to the same degree we were forgiven. We must do it completely and totally. Jesus told us that the servant was forgiven all his debt. It was only after he would not extend the same level of mercy he was given that his debt was required of him. Could God withhold blessings if we don’t forgive? That is something only God can answer. However it does appear from the story Jesus told this may truly be the case. We must be able to forgive so we can be forgiven.
Forgiveness is a two way street. As believers we often lose many spiritual blessings we should be enjoying. The question comes to mind if I don’t want to forgive some one what then, will God punish me; will God send me to hell? If Christ was invited into your heart and you accepted Him as savior hell will not be a place you will go. Will you lose blessings? It appears so. If a believer elects not to forgive another for what ever reason then I believe Jesus is showing us what will happen. In the story Jesus mentioned the one who would not forgive the debt owed him as his debt was forgiven was turned over to the tormentors till he should pay all. It did not mention being cast our or put in prison. Having an unforgiving spirit is a sin. Sin will rob us of our joy. David prayed Lord restore unto me the joy of thy salvation. Could it be that a very large number of unhappy believers found in the church today are unhappy because they can’t or won’t forgive another? The unhappy child of God will find it difficult to be satisfied with spiritual things when they are not right with God in their heart. When the right relationship is restored with the Lord the result will be peace and happiness. Jesus said by their fruits ye shall know them. If a person has a sour spirit it will show. What could cause a child of God to have a sour spirit? Unforgiveness!
You might be surprised how your church would look if only you asked the Lord to take away your overly critical spirit and attitude, and give you a heart of real love for Him and others. What then was Jesus talking about when he said this man was turned over to the tormentors? The torments of an evil conscience and a proud covetous heart are never small, nor are they few. Nor are they secluded to the believer they will affect all around them. If someone had a grudge against another they can’t be comfortable in the others presence. Why? Guilty conscience I guess. Maybe they are always looking for what’s wrong and critical of everything. You can’t change the world around you until you change the world within you. There is a way of escape from these things. In 1 John 1:9 we find, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
So then what must we do? First we must forgive to the same degree we were forgiven. We must do it completely and totally. Jesus told us that the servant was forgiven all his debt. It was only after he would not extend the same level of mercy he was given that his debt was required of him. Could God withhold blessings if we don’t forgive? That is something only God can answer. However it does appear from the story Jesus told this may truly be the case. We must be able to forgive so we can be forgiven.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Sad Behavior
Matthew 18:28-30 “Then the same servant went out and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying Pay me what thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.”
The story Jesus is telling was first about a man who had a great debt and could not pay it. Came to his master and begged to be forgiven and all his debt was forgiven him. You kind of wish the verses that follow were not there but Jesus knew there would be many who would not be willing to forgive. So He wanted to make sure we got the whole story. We see a picture of a man who had received mercy and that same man who refused to show mercy. He refused to give that which had been given to him. Why would Jesus show us such a picture? I feel He wanted to show how essential it is for us to not only receive forgiveness, but to practice it in our dealings with others. Notice how this man had been on the brink of loosing all he had was shown mercy of his master. He then promptly forgot what he had been given and went out and grabbed one who owed him very little by the throat and demanded payment. Instead of showing the same mercy he had just received he cast his fellow servant in prison. This is surely not how a true Christian should behave. It is quite the opposite of the Christian attitude.
Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave thy gift before the alter, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. In other words God will forgive us but we must first forgive others. For if we cannot forgive others should we then be forgiven? At the end of Jesus’ story we see the result of an unforgiving spirit. “And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Jesus also instructs us to forgive in Mark 11:25-26, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”
It is great to have a loving God who will forgive us if we ask Him. God forgives us should we then not do likewise to those who have wronged us?
The story Jesus is telling was first about a man who had a great debt and could not pay it. Came to his master and begged to be forgiven and all his debt was forgiven him. You kind of wish the verses that follow were not there but Jesus knew there would be many who would not be willing to forgive. So He wanted to make sure we got the whole story. We see a picture of a man who had received mercy and that same man who refused to show mercy. He refused to give that which had been given to him. Why would Jesus show us such a picture? I feel He wanted to show how essential it is for us to not only receive forgiveness, but to practice it in our dealings with others. Notice how this man had been on the brink of loosing all he had was shown mercy of his master. He then promptly forgot what he had been given and went out and grabbed one who owed him very little by the throat and demanded payment. Instead of showing the same mercy he had just received he cast his fellow servant in prison. This is surely not how a true Christian should behave. It is quite the opposite of the Christian attitude.
Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave thy gift before the alter, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. In other words God will forgive us but we must first forgive others. For if we cannot forgive others should we then be forgiven? At the end of Jesus’ story we see the result of an unforgiving spirit. “And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Jesus also instructs us to forgive in Mark 11:25-26, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”
It is great to have a loving God who will forgive us if we ask Him. God forgives us should we then not do likewise to those who have wronged us?
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Number of Forgiveness
Matthew 18:23-24 “Then came Peter to him, and said Lord how oft shall my brother forgive sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus said unto him, I say not unto thee, until seven times: but until seventy times seven.”
Peter who was one of the most outspoken of the twelve asked this question. How oft shall my brother forgive sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? There is no doubt we have all asked this question. It is a great question and one that deserves examination.
How many times did the Lord have to forgive Peter? How many times has the Lord forgiven us? How you answer these questions should tell you how many times we should forgive others. Jesus told Peter he had to forgive someone four hundred and ninety times. That is a number that is unthinkable to us. Jesus is not implying someone would sin against us that many times, but if he did then we should forgive him that many times. He is seeking to impress us forgiveness should become a real part of our lives.
Jesus then went on to share a parable to show just how that forgiveness should be done. He pictured a man who had come face to face with reality and had to face his master about a debt he owed and could not pay. His condition was taken from real life much like we would see today. This man was hopeless and helpless and was about to be sold along with his whole family into slavery. This man came to realize two things. First he owed ten thousand talents. Second this was an amount that was impossible for him to pay. This is a picture of a man in sin, and it is a very dark picture. It is a sad picture for not only did it affect this man it was about to affect his whole family. He realized he had to come to his master and ask for forgiveness. Was there any real hope for this man? Thankfully there was in the mercy extended by the master. He could have promised he would clean up his act and pay his debt, but his plight was hopeless. He could have talked about his service over the years serving his master, but that would not pay his debt. He could have made great promises about doing better in the future; still his debt would go unpaid. What did he have to do? He had to fall down at the feet of his master and ask to be forgiven. The master had compassion for the man and forgave him his debt.
Far too many people are seeking to be saved on the basis of what they are doing, or have done. They “turn over a new leaf” quite often; make some wonderful promises, but these things just don’t pay the sin debt. Jesus went to the cross to pay your sin debt. Our debt cost Jesus his life. His sacrifice paid our debt. It is only when you seek Him and ask Him to come into your heart and cleanse you of all unrighteousness can you be forgiven and set free.
Peter who was one of the most outspoken of the twelve asked this question. How oft shall my brother forgive sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? There is no doubt we have all asked this question. It is a great question and one that deserves examination.
How many times did the Lord have to forgive Peter? How many times has the Lord forgiven us? How you answer these questions should tell you how many times we should forgive others. Jesus told Peter he had to forgive someone four hundred and ninety times. That is a number that is unthinkable to us. Jesus is not implying someone would sin against us that many times, but if he did then we should forgive him that many times. He is seeking to impress us forgiveness should become a real part of our lives.
Jesus then went on to share a parable to show just how that forgiveness should be done. He pictured a man who had come face to face with reality and had to face his master about a debt he owed and could not pay. His condition was taken from real life much like we would see today. This man was hopeless and helpless and was about to be sold along with his whole family into slavery. This man came to realize two things. First he owed ten thousand talents. Second this was an amount that was impossible for him to pay. This is a picture of a man in sin, and it is a very dark picture. It is a sad picture for not only did it affect this man it was about to affect his whole family. He realized he had to come to his master and ask for forgiveness. Was there any real hope for this man? Thankfully there was in the mercy extended by the master. He could have promised he would clean up his act and pay his debt, but his plight was hopeless. He could have talked about his service over the years serving his master, but that would not pay his debt. He could have made great promises about doing better in the future; still his debt would go unpaid. What did he have to do? He had to fall down at the feet of his master and ask to be forgiven. The master had compassion for the man and forgave him his debt.
Far too many people are seeking to be saved on the basis of what they are doing, or have done. They “turn over a new leaf” quite often; make some wonderful promises, but these things just don’t pay the sin debt. Jesus went to the cross to pay your sin debt. Our debt cost Jesus his life. His sacrifice paid our debt. It is only when you seek Him and ask Him to come into your heart and cleanse you of all unrighteousness can you be forgiven and set free.
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Stone Was Rolled Away
Matthew 28:2 “And behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angle of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.”
Matthew records just how much the religious crowd was afraid of Jesus. They saw him die. They knew he was buried but they were afraid what Jesus had said just might be true and then what would they do? As is always the case when man goes against God man feels his wisdom and cunning is sufficient to cover up his sin. The chief priest and Pharisees wanted to make sure the tomb would be secure so they ask for Roman protection. Look at their request in Matthew 27:64, “Command therefore that the sepulcher be made secure until the third day…..so the last error shall be worse that the first.” They knew they had made a huge mistake and now wanted Pilate to keep them safe.
After Jesus had died and his body taken down off the cross we find the account of his burial. A great stone was rolled over the door of the tomb as was the custom and the sepulcher was sealed this time with a Roman guard and Roman seal. All is secure and the religious crowd could rest easy. When the women came to prepare the body as also was the custom they were concerned they would need help moving the stone that sealed the tomb. When they got there at sun rise they found the stone had been rolled away the guards were asleep and an angel was waiting for them.
God had smiled and sent an angle and an earthquake not to let Jesus out but to let the women in. The angle spoke to the women “Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
There may be a stone covering your heart. You may be sealed in a tomb of your own making. It may be sealed with doubt, tradition, pride, selfish indignation, or any number of other stones we place there. Maybe you are like the Pharisees and don’t believe and have asked the god of this world to protect you. God can remove all the stones just as He did that first Easter morning. No stone is too large that God can’t move it. He can move it gently or He can send an earthquake. Once He rolls the stone away we are to do as the women did we are to go quickly and tell others He is risen.
Jesus bore our sins on the cross and became our atonement before God. He is not still on the cross he is not in the tomb He is alive and well and seated on the right hand of God. Do you have a stone that needs to be rolled away?
Matthew records just how much the religious crowd was afraid of Jesus. They saw him die. They knew he was buried but they were afraid what Jesus had said just might be true and then what would they do? As is always the case when man goes against God man feels his wisdom and cunning is sufficient to cover up his sin. The chief priest and Pharisees wanted to make sure the tomb would be secure so they ask for Roman protection. Look at their request in Matthew 27:64, “Command therefore that the sepulcher be made secure until the third day…..so the last error shall be worse that the first.” They knew they had made a huge mistake and now wanted Pilate to keep them safe.
After Jesus had died and his body taken down off the cross we find the account of his burial. A great stone was rolled over the door of the tomb as was the custom and the sepulcher was sealed this time with a Roman guard and Roman seal. All is secure and the religious crowd could rest easy. When the women came to prepare the body as also was the custom they were concerned they would need help moving the stone that sealed the tomb. When they got there at sun rise they found the stone had been rolled away the guards were asleep and an angel was waiting for them.
God had smiled and sent an angle and an earthquake not to let Jesus out but to let the women in. The angle spoke to the women “Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
There may be a stone covering your heart. You may be sealed in a tomb of your own making. It may be sealed with doubt, tradition, pride, selfish indignation, or any number of other stones we place there. Maybe you are like the Pharisees and don’t believe and have asked the god of this world to protect you. God can remove all the stones just as He did that first Easter morning. No stone is too large that God can’t move it. He can move it gently or He can send an earthquake. Once He rolls the stone away we are to do as the women did we are to go quickly and tell others He is risen.
Jesus bore our sins on the cross and became our atonement before God. He is not still on the cross he is not in the tomb He is alive and well and seated on the right hand of God. Do you have a stone that needs to be rolled away?
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Forgivness Part 2
Romans 6:11-13, “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in lust thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
While it is true God is very forgiving and very long suffering and patient. The question then is if God is so forgiving and all we have to do is confess can we then live like we want to? God did give us the freedom of choice; however He also gave us some rules to live by. Some believe they can live like the devil all week long then go to church on Sunday and bow their head and all will be ok. Way back in the garden Adam was given a choice obey God or leave the garden. We all know what happened when he choose to live like he wanted to. Judas walked with Jesus and chose to live like he wanted to and look what happened to him. Romans 6:16, “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?”
So to answer the question can we live like e want to; I guess we can but I don’t think we will like the outcome. The choice then becomes very clear to whom do you swear your allegiance? To God or satan? Satan loves to get Christians to follow him for then he can point a finger and say, “See this Christian thing is not what its cracked up to be.” God says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal live through Jesus Christ our Lord.” “Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.”
God does not remember our sin, as a vendetta against us, because Christ took them upon himself, for us. The penalty has been paid and so the debt, the transgression is forgiven. My question then is who is controlling your life? Who died for you on the cross? Who loves you enough to die for you? Who do you love enough to live for? Your actions will speak louder than your words. Jesus said, “Every tree that bringeth not good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruit ye shall know them.”
While it is true God is very forgiving and very long suffering and patient. The question then is if God is so forgiving and all we have to do is confess can we then live like we want to? God did give us the freedom of choice; however He also gave us some rules to live by. Some believe they can live like the devil all week long then go to church on Sunday and bow their head and all will be ok. Way back in the garden Adam was given a choice obey God or leave the garden. We all know what happened when he choose to live like he wanted to. Judas walked with Jesus and chose to live like he wanted to and look what happened to him. Romans 6:16, “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?”
So to answer the question can we live like e want to; I guess we can but I don’t think we will like the outcome. The choice then becomes very clear to whom do you swear your allegiance? To God or satan? Satan loves to get Christians to follow him for then he can point a finger and say, “See this Christian thing is not what its cracked up to be.” God says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal live through Jesus Christ our Lord.” “Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.”
God does not remember our sin, as a vendetta against us, because Christ took them upon himself, for us. The penalty has been paid and so the debt, the transgression is forgiven. My question then is who is controlling your life? Who died for you on the cross? Who loves you enough to die for you? Who do you love enough to live for? Your actions will speak louder than your words. Jesus said, “Every tree that bringeth not good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruit ye shall know them.”
Friday, April 15, 2011
Forgiveness
1 John 1:9-10 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
In the corporate world and in the political world there is always a search for a loop hole to allow us to get out of being held accountable. The bible is clear about sin and what it is. Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and who would want to call God a liar? For him that knoweth to do right and doeth it not to him it is sin. The bible is also clear about the result of sin. Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
There are sins which we commit that have consequences that will affect the rest of our lives. There are others that are simple transgressions. We stretch the truth, take something that does not belong to us or speak badly about someone. Wither the sin is large or small all are distasteful to God. Yet He is so merciful that he will forgive us if we will but ask, and He will do it over and over again. We are faced daily with reminders of these sins in the past and struggle still with the consequences of many of them. Depending on the nature and severity of the sin we may be tempted to think God could never forgive me for that. But He can and he will just ask. The blessed assurance from God’s Word: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. No sin is excepted. No mistake it too big and no transgression is too terrible for God to cleanse it with the blood of Jesus Christ.
So then we are left with one important question: have we confessed our sin to God? You don’t have to know how he is going to do that you just have to know He will do what He said He would do. You confess it He forgives it, it is just that simple. Like it or not believe it or not we are all sinners in God’s eyes. Yet He loves us so much through the blood of Christ shed for us on the cross we have forgiveness. Try it you will like it and God will love you for it.
In the corporate world and in the political world there is always a search for a loop hole to allow us to get out of being held accountable. The bible is clear about sin and what it is. Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and who would want to call God a liar? For him that knoweth to do right and doeth it not to him it is sin. The bible is also clear about the result of sin. Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
There are sins which we commit that have consequences that will affect the rest of our lives. There are others that are simple transgressions. We stretch the truth, take something that does not belong to us or speak badly about someone. Wither the sin is large or small all are distasteful to God. Yet He is so merciful that he will forgive us if we will but ask, and He will do it over and over again. We are faced daily with reminders of these sins in the past and struggle still with the consequences of many of them. Depending on the nature and severity of the sin we may be tempted to think God could never forgive me for that. But He can and he will just ask. The blessed assurance from God’s Word: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. No sin is excepted. No mistake it too big and no transgression is too terrible for God to cleanse it with the blood of Jesus Christ.
So then we are left with one important question: have we confessed our sin to God? You don’t have to know how he is going to do that you just have to know He will do what He said He would do. You confess it He forgives it, it is just that simple. Like it or not believe it or not we are all sinners in God’s eyes. Yet He loves us so much through the blood of Christ shed for us on the cross we have forgiveness. Try it you will like it and God will love you for it.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Serving Others
Matthew 25:38-40 “When saw we a stranger, and took thee in? Or naked and clothed thee? Or when saw we sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
Through out his earthly ministry Jesus gave us instructions on how we are to live and deal with those around us. Service is a word that many shun on a daily basis. This action is contrary to what Jesus taught. Jesus came to be a servant. He said he did not come to be served but to serve.
Many of our daily actions would indicate we do not fully understand or believe His instructions. He exhorts us “take no thought for tomorrow” and yet we worry ourselves to death fretting over something we don’t even know will show up. He promises our burden will be light if we will but cast our load upon Him. Yet we continue to struggle under the ever increasing load we heap upon ourselves. He says, “If you love me keep my commandments” and yet we ever strive to separate the two. “You cannot serve God and money,” is His warning, but we continue to strive to join the two.
The instruction we seem to ignore the most is this: if you do anything for the least of Jesus’ brethren, it is as if you have done it to Jesus himself. No one wants to admit they have ignored Jesus or turned Him out into the street. Yet we do it every day.
Have you visited a nursing home; given to foreign or home evangelism; reached out to broken addicts; taught a child about Jesus--- all as if you were doing it to Jesus? So often our daily lives cause us to rush by the faces of those who are hurting or lonely because we feel they are beneath us. And yet the King says, “you have done this to me?”
Did you wake up this morning with the realization you could minister directly to Jesus? How could you minister to Jesus what does he need? Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” We all need to live and act like everything we do or say is done directly to Jesus. If that were true how would we change our lives? Help the hurting, reach out to the recovering addict, teach the Bible, encourage the down cast, help the needy just the way you would if Jesus was the One you were encountering today. Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Through out his earthly ministry Jesus gave us instructions on how we are to live and deal with those around us. Service is a word that many shun on a daily basis. This action is contrary to what Jesus taught. Jesus came to be a servant. He said he did not come to be served but to serve.
Many of our daily actions would indicate we do not fully understand or believe His instructions. He exhorts us “take no thought for tomorrow” and yet we worry ourselves to death fretting over something we don’t even know will show up. He promises our burden will be light if we will but cast our load upon Him. Yet we continue to struggle under the ever increasing load we heap upon ourselves. He says, “If you love me keep my commandments” and yet we ever strive to separate the two. “You cannot serve God and money,” is His warning, but we continue to strive to join the two.
The instruction we seem to ignore the most is this: if you do anything for the least of Jesus’ brethren, it is as if you have done it to Jesus himself. No one wants to admit they have ignored Jesus or turned Him out into the street. Yet we do it every day.
Have you visited a nursing home; given to foreign or home evangelism; reached out to broken addicts; taught a child about Jesus--- all as if you were doing it to Jesus? So often our daily lives cause us to rush by the faces of those who are hurting or lonely because we feel they are beneath us. And yet the King says, “you have done this to me?”
Did you wake up this morning with the realization you could minister directly to Jesus? How could you minister to Jesus what does he need? Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” We all need to live and act like everything we do or say is done directly to Jesus. If that were true how would we change our lives? Help the hurting, reach out to the recovering addict, teach the Bible, encourage the down cast, help the needy just the way you would if Jesus was the One you were encountering today. Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Facing Temptation
Matthew 26:40-41 “And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, “What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.”
How to fight temptation? This is a problem man has had since the beginning of time. In just a few short words Jesus gives us the directive how to win the temptation battle. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation! The world we live in offers a thousand enticements to a thousand different sins. Every night we are bombarded with views of illicit sex and violence, seductive drink and pleasure seeking adventure. Our sinful nature assaults us from within with a complex and varied array of lusts, fears, ambitions and doubts. Satan knows our weakness and attacks us on that front.
Yet Jesus’ simple balanced directive gives us an effective weapon against every one of these temptations to sin: watch and pray. It is our responsibility to keep our spiritual eyes open and on the Savior. This may mean we keep our physical eyes closed or averted from any avenue by which sin might enter into our soul. We are to guard our heart from disloyalty, and our testimony from indiscretion, by actively engaging ourselves in the relentless pursuit of purity and goodness. This is not a job we can accomplish on our own or in our own strength. The age-old cunning of Satan is always on the alert for some small opening he can draw our attention toward sin. Temptation to sin is a strong magnet intended to draw us away from God. We must rely upon the Holy Spirit and the sustaining grace of our Heavenly Father to help us win this sin battle. The words from a country song says it well, “send me ten thousands angles to help me walk out the door.”
Because our flesh is weak, no matter how willing our spirit may be it is imperative that we be in a constant watchfulness and prayer. Romans 7:18, “For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” Vs 20 “Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” The sinful nature of man described by Paul sheds light on why we are subject to Satan’s temptation. That is why Jesus told us there is a direct correlation between our prayerful watchfulness and our ability to withstand the wiles of the devil and avoid temptation. Watch and pray should be the by word of every day.
How to fight temptation? This is a problem man has had since the beginning of time. In just a few short words Jesus gives us the directive how to win the temptation battle. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation! The world we live in offers a thousand enticements to a thousand different sins. Every night we are bombarded with views of illicit sex and violence, seductive drink and pleasure seeking adventure. Our sinful nature assaults us from within with a complex and varied array of lusts, fears, ambitions and doubts. Satan knows our weakness and attacks us on that front.
Yet Jesus’ simple balanced directive gives us an effective weapon against every one of these temptations to sin: watch and pray. It is our responsibility to keep our spiritual eyes open and on the Savior. This may mean we keep our physical eyes closed or averted from any avenue by which sin might enter into our soul. We are to guard our heart from disloyalty, and our testimony from indiscretion, by actively engaging ourselves in the relentless pursuit of purity and goodness. This is not a job we can accomplish on our own or in our own strength. The age-old cunning of Satan is always on the alert for some small opening he can draw our attention toward sin. Temptation to sin is a strong magnet intended to draw us away from God. We must rely upon the Holy Spirit and the sustaining grace of our Heavenly Father to help us win this sin battle. The words from a country song says it well, “send me ten thousands angles to help me walk out the door.”
Because our flesh is weak, no matter how willing our spirit may be it is imperative that we be in a constant watchfulness and prayer. Romans 7:18, “For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” Vs 20 “Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” The sinful nature of man described by Paul sheds light on why we are subject to Satan’s temptation. That is why Jesus told us there is a direct correlation between our prayerful watchfulness and our ability to withstand the wiles of the devil and avoid temptation. Watch and pray should be the by word of every day.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Jesus Our Example
Phillippians 2:5-8
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Let this mind be in you. The Christian life is not merely intellectual assent to a list of orthodox tenets. It is internalizing the teaching and example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In the corporate world man starts at the bottom and works his way to the top. In God’s world Jesus started at the top, he was God and became low, chose to humble himself for the sake of his people.
To the corporate world Jesus did everything backwards. Jesus was God but made himself of no reputation. He was one who deserved all honor and glory. He was King of Kings and Lord of Lords yet he became a servant. He started at the top and died a beggar in the street hung on a shameful cross.
It is ironic that we today give all our energy and resources to do just the opposite. The corporate world would shudder at the thought of anyone becoming a servant. Maybe this is why Jesus told those who admired him so that they would have to deny themselves in order to follow or become one of his disciples. Many Christians today want to claim discipleship, but without the sacrifice, without the self-denial, without the humility.
To one who serves falls the task of assisting and helping others. This task is far more important for the larger goal than fleeting glory or short lived recognition. The goal should be to ensure the larger picture reaches completion and accolades are directed to others. Quietly and efficiently a good servant will seek only to ensure the success for those whom he serves.
Humility is not a trait man seeks, for it goes against his very nature. By nature man wants to walk in front, stand above all and bask in the acclaim of his peers. Jesus could have done this but chose to be a servant instead.
If one seeks humility and servitude he will be most happy as those he serves receive the rewards and applause. A true servant will cheer loudly as those he serves reach great heights.
A true servant heart will give up personal goals and dreams so that others may achieve higher status. While others play or shirk responsibility the servant will uncomplaining provide the menial details required. He will work behind the scenes. Many would call this ridiculous. Others say this one needs to get a life. Yet in the end when all acclaim is given those who are content to play the servant rejoices as the awards are presented. The servant rejoices the more as those whom he serves stand as the volume of the applause rises.
He then seeks another whom he can serve. This is what humility is all about, dying to ones self so that others may stand in the light. Jesus not only died to himself he died for us so that we could live. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Let this mind be in you. The Christian life is not merely intellectual assent to a list of orthodox tenets. It is internalizing the teaching and example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In the corporate world man starts at the bottom and works his way to the top. In God’s world Jesus started at the top, he was God and became low, chose to humble himself for the sake of his people.
To the corporate world Jesus did everything backwards. Jesus was God but made himself of no reputation. He was one who deserved all honor and glory. He was King of Kings and Lord of Lords yet he became a servant. He started at the top and died a beggar in the street hung on a shameful cross.
It is ironic that we today give all our energy and resources to do just the opposite. The corporate world would shudder at the thought of anyone becoming a servant. Maybe this is why Jesus told those who admired him so that they would have to deny themselves in order to follow or become one of his disciples. Many Christians today want to claim discipleship, but without the sacrifice, without the self-denial, without the humility.
To one who serves falls the task of assisting and helping others. This task is far more important for the larger goal than fleeting glory or short lived recognition. The goal should be to ensure the larger picture reaches completion and accolades are directed to others. Quietly and efficiently a good servant will seek only to ensure the success for those whom he serves.
Humility is not a trait man seeks, for it goes against his very nature. By nature man wants to walk in front, stand above all and bask in the acclaim of his peers. Jesus could have done this but chose to be a servant instead.
If one seeks humility and servitude he will be most happy as those he serves receive the rewards and applause. A true servant will cheer loudly as those he serves reach great heights.
A true servant heart will give up personal goals and dreams so that others may achieve higher status. While others play or shirk responsibility the servant will uncomplaining provide the menial details required. He will work behind the scenes. Many would call this ridiculous. Others say this one needs to get a life. Yet in the end when all acclaim is given those who are content to play the servant rejoices as the awards are presented. The servant rejoices the more as those whom he serves stand as the volume of the applause rises.
He then seeks another whom he can serve. This is what humility is all about, dying to ones self so that others may stand in the light. Jesus not only died to himself he died for us so that we could live. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Which side of God are you on?
Are You on the Wrong Side of God?
Acts 5:33-39
When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;
And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
When I first read this passage, I was impressed with the arguments of Gamaliel's. He is reminding this group of recent happenings along similar lines. He is giving them sound advice about the emotional action they are considering. These "men of Israel" had heard and experienced many accounts of being on the wrong side of God. These were bible scholars and knew about the history of what happens when people get on the wrong side of God. My mind immediately went to the Book of Jonah. Jonah, as you probably know, was told by God to go to the city of Ninevah and preach repentance to the Ninevites. The people of Ninevah were enemies of Jonah and his people. The last thing Jona wanted to do was go preach a revival in Ninevah. He not only was fearful for his own life, but he also did not want them to repent -- instead he wanted God to just kill them all and put them out of his misery. So he ran away. He jumped on a boat going the opposite direction of Ninevah. You are familiar with the outcome: God sent a great storm, then a big fish that swallowed Jonah and vomited him on the shore. During this experience Jonah finally agreed to do God's will -- although without joy. He went to Ninevah and preached one of the best sermons of all time -- so good in fact that the people of Ninevah repented. Jonah's story ends on a hill outside of town, as he waits and watches for the Lord to destroy the Ninevites. Jonah was ultimately angry and disappointed because the Lord chose to spare Ninevah.
I see the Sanhedrin in this same place -- deciding to take a wait and see approach with the expectation that God will punish the followers of Jesus, believing that the Christian movement will turn to nothing, it will fail. Unfortunately, like Jonah, the Sanhedrin are so committed to their own agenda they are unwilling to allow God to lead in their lives. As a result they don't experience the joy of salvation. Instead they are left with the harshness of the lesson without the benefit God intended. Ritual and tradition had blinded them to the truth God was trying to show. I see the same thing happening in the religious world today. Satan has blinded many to God’s truth with false belief and incorrect teachings.
Jonah sat on the rocky ground and baked in the sun, angry at God for His forgiving nature. The Sanhedrin wanted to punish the apostles, in fact they wanted to put them to death -- but they were on the wrong side of God as well -- doing in great error what they thought was God's will. As we will see some were ultimately transformed, but many were not. Which will you be? Transformed by the experience or stubbornly stuck in your expectation or tradition?
Are you on the wrong side of God? What change of thought will it take to correct your thinking? Have you had an experience in which you resisted God's will? What do you think He was trying to tell you or get you to change?
Acts 5:33-39
When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.
Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;
And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
When I first read this passage, I was impressed with the arguments of Gamaliel's. He is reminding this group of recent happenings along similar lines. He is giving them sound advice about the emotional action they are considering. These "men of Israel" had heard and experienced many accounts of being on the wrong side of God. These were bible scholars and knew about the history of what happens when people get on the wrong side of God. My mind immediately went to the Book of Jonah. Jonah, as you probably know, was told by God to go to the city of Ninevah and preach repentance to the Ninevites. The people of Ninevah were enemies of Jonah and his people. The last thing Jona wanted to do was go preach a revival in Ninevah. He not only was fearful for his own life, but he also did not want them to repent -- instead he wanted God to just kill them all and put them out of his misery. So he ran away. He jumped on a boat going the opposite direction of Ninevah. You are familiar with the outcome: God sent a great storm, then a big fish that swallowed Jonah and vomited him on the shore. During this experience Jonah finally agreed to do God's will -- although without joy. He went to Ninevah and preached one of the best sermons of all time -- so good in fact that the people of Ninevah repented. Jonah's story ends on a hill outside of town, as he waits and watches for the Lord to destroy the Ninevites. Jonah was ultimately angry and disappointed because the Lord chose to spare Ninevah.
I see the Sanhedrin in this same place -- deciding to take a wait and see approach with the expectation that God will punish the followers of Jesus, believing that the Christian movement will turn to nothing, it will fail. Unfortunately, like Jonah, the Sanhedrin are so committed to their own agenda they are unwilling to allow God to lead in their lives. As a result they don't experience the joy of salvation. Instead they are left with the harshness of the lesson without the benefit God intended. Ritual and tradition had blinded them to the truth God was trying to show. I see the same thing happening in the religious world today. Satan has blinded many to God’s truth with false belief and incorrect teachings.
Jonah sat on the rocky ground and baked in the sun, angry at God for His forgiving nature. The Sanhedrin wanted to punish the apostles, in fact they wanted to put them to death -- but they were on the wrong side of God as well -- doing in great error what they thought was God's will. As we will see some were ultimately transformed, but many were not. Which will you be? Transformed by the experience or stubbornly stuck in your expectation or tradition?
Are you on the wrong side of God? What change of thought will it take to correct your thinking? Have you had an experience in which you resisted God's will? What do you think He was trying to tell you or get you to change?
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Christian Living
Matthew 5:14-16 “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let you light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
There are many good works done every day. Charitable organizations, volunteers, and many there is not room to mention them all. When God looks down at all that is being done what is He looking for? He is looking to see if what is being done is being done to give Him glory. If it is not then God is not interested. But “good works” is not what God is interested in. God is very interested in and concerned about what glorifies God.
Jesus had just finished the sermon on the mount and as He did he gave a very simple illustration of what a Christian should be doing. Jesus is reminding everyone that He is not satisfied to simply command charitable acts, random acts of kindness, or the many other good works that all the world hails. His idea is very simple. Let your light shine in such a way that what ever you do will reflect on the Father in heaven and not on you.
When you have the opportunity to do a good deed, to help someone in need are people encouraged to give you the credit? Slap you on the back and tell you what a great job you did? Or do your actions point to Christ as the source and motivation for what you do? It is easy for our ego, pride and our people pleasing nature to take even our best Christian efforts and turn them into an occasion for self glory.
If you study how Jesus lived and taught you will quickly notice He never pointed to himself, he always pointed to the Father. He wanted to make sure the credit was placed where it rightly belonged; that being in a way that gave glory to God the Father. If the Son of God himself would deny himself to receive the acclaim of men for his good works, how much more should our lives be mirrors that reflect the glorious goodness and grace of our God?
There are many good works done every day. Charitable organizations, volunteers, and many there is not room to mention them all. When God looks down at all that is being done what is He looking for? He is looking to see if what is being done is being done to give Him glory. If it is not then God is not interested. But “good works” is not what God is interested in. God is very interested in and concerned about what glorifies God.
Jesus had just finished the sermon on the mount and as He did he gave a very simple illustration of what a Christian should be doing. Jesus is reminding everyone that He is not satisfied to simply command charitable acts, random acts of kindness, or the many other good works that all the world hails. His idea is very simple. Let your light shine in such a way that what ever you do will reflect on the Father in heaven and not on you.
When you have the opportunity to do a good deed, to help someone in need are people encouraged to give you the credit? Slap you on the back and tell you what a great job you did? Or do your actions point to Christ as the source and motivation for what you do? It is easy for our ego, pride and our people pleasing nature to take even our best Christian efforts and turn them into an occasion for self glory.
If you study how Jesus lived and taught you will quickly notice He never pointed to himself, he always pointed to the Father. He wanted to make sure the credit was placed where it rightly belonged; that being in a way that gave glory to God the Father. If the Son of God himself would deny himself to receive the acclaim of men for his good works, how much more should our lives be mirrors that reflect the glorious goodness and grace of our God?
Friday, April 8, 2011
Christian Civil Disobedience
Acts 5:29-32
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be Prince and a saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.”
The Sanhedrin believed they were divinely appointed by God to administrate God's will on earth, so everything they did was God's will. You can imagine how angry they must have been when Peter and the apostles continued to disobey their orders and answered, "We must obey God rather than men!" This condition did not die with those who were called the Sanhedrin. It is still alive and kicking today. There are many sects and orders today that believe they are the sole owner of the access to God. Those who do not comply with their authority are heretics.
I think we must be careful that we are not self-serving when we apply this principle of civil disobedience. 1 Peter 2:13-14 tells us that we are to submit ourselves to every earthly authority placed over us, so how do we balance all that? Without getting into civil authority or compliance to law and order let us look at what we as Christians are to do. God told Israel over and over again to obey my commandments. Man has devised ways to get around what God has commanded us to do. And over and over again man has suffered the consequences of his actions. I do feel as Christians when our freedom to worship God as He directs is threatened then we are to follow God and not man. We are also to stand up and defend the God we serve. I guess then it would come down to which god do you serve, the god of this world or the God who created heaven and earth. Satan is on the offensive to get God removed from our lives our country and our minds. As Christens we are to take up arms and go to war against this evil.
There are two primary biblical requirements to keep in mind as we consider an act of "Christian Civil Disobedience." I pose these as questions, the first is: Does it have scriptural support and authority? 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproach, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” The apostles weren't following a feeling, they were following a direct order of Jesus from Matthew 28:19 "Go make disciples of all nations."
The second: Will you carry it out with humility? Peter and the apostles were willing to take punishment for disobedience. Throughout the Scriptures we see other examples of those who say, "we can't do this because we have a higher authority;" however, they do so without anger, resentment, or violence. Yes it is a war we are to fight but then we are to do it with love for those who have wronged us, for those who have fallen under the spell of the devil and those who have been deceived by false teachers. Colossians 2:8 “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Our example is Christ. As he hung on the cross after having been beaten and physically abused to the ninth degree he said, “forgive them for they know not what they do.”
1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour..”
Remember the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. Take a stand for Christ He stood for you, gave His life for you and expects nothing less.
Can you remember a situation recently when you had a choice to obey God or man? What was your decision? What was the outcome?
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be Prince and a saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.”
The Sanhedrin believed they were divinely appointed by God to administrate God's will on earth, so everything they did was God's will. You can imagine how angry they must have been when Peter and the apostles continued to disobey their orders and answered, "We must obey God rather than men!" This condition did not die with those who were called the Sanhedrin. It is still alive and kicking today. There are many sects and orders today that believe they are the sole owner of the access to God. Those who do not comply with their authority are heretics.
I think we must be careful that we are not self-serving when we apply this principle of civil disobedience. 1 Peter 2:13-14 tells us that we are to submit ourselves to every earthly authority placed over us, so how do we balance all that? Without getting into civil authority or compliance to law and order let us look at what we as Christians are to do. God told Israel over and over again to obey my commandments. Man has devised ways to get around what God has commanded us to do. And over and over again man has suffered the consequences of his actions. I do feel as Christians when our freedom to worship God as He directs is threatened then we are to follow God and not man. We are also to stand up and defend the God we serve. I guess then it would come down to which god do you serve, the god of this world or the God who created heaven and earth. Satan is on the offensive to get God removed from our lives our country and our minds. As Christens we are to take up arms and go to war against this evil.
There are two primary biblical requirements to keep in mind as we consider an act of "Christian Civil Disobedience." I pose these as questions, the first is: Does it have scriptural support and authority? 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproach, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” The apostles weren't following a feeling, they were following a direct order of Jesus from Matthew 28:19 "Go make disciples of all nations."
The second: Will you carry it out with humility? Peter and the apostles were willing to take punishment for disobedience. Throughout the Scriptures we see other examples of those who say, "we can't do this because we have a higher authority;" however, they do so without anger, resentment, or violence. Yes it is a war we are to fight but then we are to do it with love for those who have wronged us, for those who have fallen under the spell of the devil and those who have been deceived by false teachers. Colossians 2:8 “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Our example is Christ. As he hung on the cross after having been beaten and physically abused to the ninth degree he said, “forgive them for they know not what they do.”
1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour..”
Remember the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. Take a stand for Christ He stood for you, gave His life for you and expects nothing less.
Can you remember a situation recently when you had a choice to obey God or man? What was your decision? What was the outcome?
Thursday, April 7, 2011
We Couldn't Be Wrong, Right?
Acts 5:25-28
Then came one and told them, saying, Behold the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the counsel: and the high priest asked hem, saying, Did not we straightly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.
In these verses we see several truths. One is the fact that the church leaders, the Sanhedrin, were wrong and they knew it. Their pride and arrogance had blinded them to the truth Jesus brought. Two they showed their self righteousness thinking they were better than anyone else and only they could teach religious ideas. Three because they knew they were wrong they were afraid of what the people would say or do.
I am quite sure neither the Sanhedrin nor the chief priest, felt they were opposed to God in this confrontation with Peter and John. Rather, they were so focused on their own power and authority they could not see God's correcting hand in the experience. We see this indignation in verse 28, "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name." In other words their egos blinded them to the truth God was trying to show them. Remember these were men who all their lives had studied the law and prophets, the religious of the religious.
So often we get locked into doing things our way (like the Sanhedrin), that when God corrects us through events, we ignore the miracle because it doesn't fit with our expectation. We couldn't be wrong -- right? When things seem to be going wrong -- people aren't following your direction, leadership or example -- it's probably a good time to reevaluate how and what you're doing. God might be correcting you and He may be using a lowly person or people to do so. I think the most difficult correction for me to accept is, when God uses someone less educated, less experienced, or a new Christian. That's when I have to be especially careful that my "Sanhedrin" indignation and arrogance doesn't kick in.
Is God trying to correct you right now? Is there a way you are doing something, maybe even an attitude that needs to change? Do you get hung up on tradition and ritual and miss the real truth god is trying to show you? Has there been someone in your life that like the Sanhedrin has made you angry because they've challenged you? Perhaps it's time to reevaluate -- you couldn't be wrong, right?
Evaluate your attitudes and actions in light of God's Word. For only then can you truly see the flaws that may be keeping your from having a truly great experience with God.
Then came one and told them, saying, Behold the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the counsel: and the high priest asked hem, saying, Did not we straightly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.
In these verses we see several truths. One is the fact that the church leaders, the Sanhedrin, were wrong and they knew it. Their pride and arrogance had blinded them to the truth Jesus brought. Two they showed their self righteousness thinking they were better than anyone else and only they could teach religious ideas. Three because they knew they were wrong they were afraid of what the people would say or do.
I am quite sure neither the Sanhedrin nor the chief priest, felt they were opposed to God in this confrontation with Peter and John. Rather, they were so focused on their own power and authority they could not see God's correcting hand in the experience. We see this indignation in verse 28, "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name." In other words their egos blinded them to the truth God was trying to show them. Remember these were men who all their lives had studied the law and prophets, the religious of the religious.
So often we get locked into doing things our way (like the Sanhedrin), that when God corrects us through events, we ignore the miracle because it doesn't fit with our expectation. We couldn't be wrong -- right? When things seem to be going wrong -- people aren't following your direction, leadership or example -- it's probably a good time to reevaluate how and what you're doing. God might be correcting you and He may be using a lowly person or people to do so. I think the most difficult correction for me to accept is, when God uses someone less educated, less experienced, or a new Christian. That's when I have to be especially careful that my "Sanhedrin" indignation and arrogance doesn't kick in.
Is God trying to correct you right now? Is there a way you are doing something, maybe even an attitude that needs to change? Do you get hung up on tradition and ritual and miss the real truth god is trying to show you? Has there been someone in your life that like the Sanhedrin has made you angry because they've challenged you? Perhaps it's time to reevaluate -- you couldn't be wrong, right?
Evaluate your attitudes and actions in light of God's Word. For only then can you truly see the flaws that may be keeping your from having a truly great experience with God.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
What To Do when Trouble Comes
Ephesians 6:10, “Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.”
We all have had to face problems and troubles in our lives. Many times there was someone who has offered comfort with some warm words or an encouraging pat on the back. “You are going to be ok.” “Be strong.” “Things aren’t as bad as you think.” This counsel is well meant but most often is not very helpful. If you could make yourself “be strong” you would not need encouragement to begin with. The problem you are struggling with is real to you. Paul writing to the Ephesians is giving them more than just a pat on the back or a word of comfort. He is reminding them and us where all true and everlasting strength comes from. Power and strength comes from Jesus Christ. When we take our eyes off Him we are weak. Paul is saying don’t look at your problems look at Jesus. Maybe you don’t have the strength to tackle the problems or challenges that are staring you down, but God does. There is nothing to hard for God.
We should stop relying on our own strength, our own efforts, and our own wisdom; instead, we should look to the wisdom of God’s Word and the strength of God’s Spirit to direct our daily lives. When we place our trust in Him we are energized by His power. When we confess our weakness and our helplessness to him something great happens. God’s love and grace is sent to care for us. God is stronger then we so we need to cast our burdens on Him. Psalms 55:22, “Cast thy burdens upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Put on the whole amour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Only God can give you the power you need in order to successfully battle with sin, with sickness, with selfishness, and with Satan. He can and does give that power to those who turn to him and rely on him.
You have a tough decision to make ask God for guidance. Need to work through a difficult problem, put it in God’s hands and let Him deal with it. You can’t see the future but God can. You need help ask God for it. Take His hand and let Him guide you.
Or you can continue alone. It is your choice.
We all have had to face problems and troubles in our lives. Many times there was someone who has offered comfort with some warm words or an encouraging pat on the back. “You are going to be ok.” “Be strong.” “Things aren’t as bad as you think.” This counsel is well meant but most often is not very helpful. If you could make yourself “be strong” you would not need encouragement to begin with. The problem you are struggling with is real to you. Paul writing to the Ephesians is giving them more than just a pat on the back or a word of comfort. He is reminding them and us where all true and everlasting strength comes from. Power and strength comes from Jesus Christ. When we take our eyes off Him we are weak. Paul is saying don’t look at your problems look at Jesus. Maybe you don’t have the strength to tackle the problems or challenges that are staring you down, but God does. There is nothing to hard for God.
We should stop relying on our own strength, our own efforts, and our own wisdom; instead, we should look to the wisdom of God’s Word and the strength of God’s Spirit to direct our daily lives. When we place our trust in Him we are energized by His power. When we confess our weakness and our helplessness to him something great happens. God’s love and grace is sent to care for us. God is stronger then we so we need to cast our burdens on Him. Psalms 55:22, “Cast thy burdens upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Put on the whole amour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Only God can give you the power you need in order to successfully battle with sin, with sickness, with selfishness, and with Satan. He can and does give that power to those who turn to him and rely on him.
You have a tough decision to make ask God for guidance. Need to work through a difficult problem, put it in God’s hands and let Him deal with it. You can’t see the future but God can. You need help ask God for it. Take His hand and let Him guide you.
Or you can continue alone. It is your choice.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
What Does Your Shadow Represent?
Acts 5:14-16
And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitude both men and women. Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.
This is an amazing story about how things can get twisted. Peter had been preaching and through the power of the Holy spirit many signs and wonders had been done. A crowd was gathering just because of word of mouth. From all over the region the word had spread that great things were being done in Jerusalem. Believers were the more added to the Lord. Some how the word got out that Peter was so powerful that if just his shadow passed over the sick they would be healed. How did his shadow get so powerful all of a sudden? Man’s imagination and satan’s lies once again trying to take the glory away from God.
Peter the Apostle is the object in our passage whose shadow has developed the ability to heal. I’m sure Peter was not happy about this imagined power the people had given to his shadow. Everything Peter did he did in Jesus’ name. The subtle warning for us in this is to make sure we focus on the source (Jesus) not just the image. Our tendency can be to give power or find meaning in the wrong thing, in this case Peter's shadow. The people had mistakenly transformed Peter's words ("In the name of Jesus") into faith in his shadow. As a Christian we must always be cautious to humbly point to Jesus, so our works in His Name do not become "our" works alone. Keep in mind a shadow is only formed when one stands in front of the light. Without light there can be no shadow. Shadows are not magical and are only an image of the one who is standing in front of the light.
As I read our passage today, I couldn't help think about what my shadow represents to others. It is non-existent if there is no light source? Do people see Jesus in my shadow? For He is the light of the world. In John 1:6-8 we see, “There was a man sent from God whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light that all men through him might believe. He was not the Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”
If we stand in the Light of Jesus Christ we will cast a shadow. But it is not what is behind us that is important it is what people see in the light. Does the world see Jesus when they look at you? Does the light of Jesus show in your face and does it draw all men to Him? Will believers be added to the Lord because of what they see when they look at you?
And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitude both men and women. Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.
This is an amazing story about how things can get twisted. Peter had been preaching and through the power of the Holy spirit many signs and wonders had been done. A crowd was gathering just because of word of mouth. From all over the region the word had spread that great things were being done in Jerusalem. Believers were the more added to the Lord. Some how the word got out that Peter was so powerful that if just his shadow passed over the sick they would be healed. How did his shadow get so powerful all of a sudden? Man’s imagination and satan’s lies once again trying to take the glory away from God.
Peter the Apostle is the object in our passage whose shadow has developed the ability to heal. I’m sure Peter was not happy about this imagined power the people had given to his shadow. Everything Peter did he did in Jesus’ name. The subtle warning for us in this is to make sure we focus on the source (Jesus) not just the image. Our tendency can be to give power or find meaning in the wrong thing, in this case Peter's shadow. The people had mistakenly transformed Peter's words ("In the name of Jesus") into faith in his shadow. As a Christian we must always be cautious to humbly point to Jesus, so our works in His Name do not become "our" works alone. Keep in mind a shadow is only formed when one stands in front of the light. Without light there can be no shadow. Shadows are not magical and are only an image of the one who is standing in front of the light.
As I read our passage today, I couldn't help think about what my shadow represents to others. It is non-existent if there is no light source? Do people see Jesus in my shadow? For He is the light of the world. In John 1:6-8 we see, “There was a man sent from God whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light that all men through him might believe. He was not the Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”
If we stand in the Light of Jesus Christ we will cast a shadow. But it is not what is behind us that is important it is what people see in the light. Does the world see Jesus when they look at you? Does the light of Jesus show in your face and does it draw all men to Him? Will believers be added to the Lord because of what they see when they look at you?
Monday, April 4, 2011
Walking the Christian Road
Hebrews 12:1-2 “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
As we rise each day to face what may lay ahead where do we find the strength? The road ahead is filled with many obstacles, some disheartening yet we must push onward. The Christian life is not one for the faint of heart. No one can travel this road alone. We can only find strength when we fix our gaze on the God-man, Jesus Christ. For it is only when we look to Jesus that we find the preserving grace to run and not faint.
We all have a duty to serve the King. That duty can quickly turn into drudgery when we take our eyes off Jesus. Something remarkable happens when we truly see Jesus. You cannot help but be change when you look at Jesus.
Jesus became man so he would know how to deal with all we go through. When we suffer from grief look to Jesus and be comforted by his sovereign goodness. Maybe we have given in to temptation then we can look to Jesus and know because of the cross he will forgive us and care for us.
To walk the Christian road we must have a clear unclouded vision of Jesus. We must have faith grounded in the Word of God. We must have the security knowing on the cross Jesus paid our sin debt and set us free. A Christ-exalting life cannot be built upon the things and joys of this world.
As it was when Peter stepped out of the boat to come to Jesus on the water and started to sink when he took his eyes off Jesus. We too will find a difficult path when we let our eyes drop down from the saviors face. When you get down and do not have the strength to walk look up and take the hand of Christ and he will help you stand.
As we rise each day to face what may lay ahead where do we find the strength? The road ahead is filled with many obstacles, some disheartening yet we must push onward. The Christian life is not one for the faint of heart. No one can travel this road alone. We can only find strength when we fix our gaze on the God-man, Jesus Christ. For it is only when we look to Jesus that we find the preserving grace to run and not faint.
We all have a duty to serve the King. That duty can quickly turn into drudgery when we take our eyes off Jesus. Something remarkable happens when we truly see Jesus. You cannot help but be change when you look at Jesus.
Jesus became man so he would know how to deal with all we go through. When we suffer from grief look to Jesus and be comforted by his sovereign goodness. Maybe we have given in to temptation then we can look to Jesus and know because of the cross he will forgive us and care for us.
To walk the Christian road we must have a clear unclouded vision of Jesus. We must have faith grounded in the Word of God. We must have the security knowing on the cross Jesus paid our sin debt and set us free. A Christ-exalting life cannot be built upon the things and joys of this world.
As it was when Peter stepped out of the boat to come to Jesus on the water and started to sink when he took his eyes off Jesus. We too will find a difficult path when we let our eyes drop down from the saviors face. When you get down and do not have the strength to walk look up and take the hand of Christ and he will help you stand.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Have You Thanked God today
Have You Thanked God Today?
Hebrews 13:15-16 “By Him (Jesus) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
We praise God with song in service and speech and we can do none without thanking Him. Thanking God is a sacrifice of our gratitude for what He has done in and for us.
We are called to give praise to God and we must do that continually. Each time we sing His praises we are to give thanks. And, most importantly, it is only praise when it is by Jesus. Without Him where would we be?
We come to God with all sorts of request. I was thinking what percentage of the time we are talking to God is spent in thanksgiving? What is the first thing you say when you start to pray? Is it Please or Thank You? Is it our petition for want or need or is it gratitude we most often bring before God?
We most certainly must make our needs known, ask and ye shall receive, the Bible instructs. It also instructs us to praise God. We cannot properly praise His name unless we bring with us at prayer time conscious, grateful words of praise and thanksgiving for all He has done for us.
Praise, grateful praise, is not an exercise of duty. Grateful praise comes from a heart that is truly thankful for grace, provision and strength.
For what should we be the most grateful for, our home, our church, our family, our health? While all these are of vital interest without Jesus in the center we only have material gain. By whose authority and grace are we saved, and allowed to come into the presence of almighty God? It is by the name that is above every name, that name is Jesus. We are to call out in His name, sing praises in His name and give thanks for what he has done for us. It is by Jesus, and for Jesus, that our greatest thanks should be offered up to God.
When was the last time you prayed just a prayer of thanks and really meant it? Prayed a prayer of thanksgiving without attaching several petitions. Just said God I just want to tell you how much I love you and just wanted to say thanks.
Psalms 63:3, “Because thy loving kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Philippians 4:6, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known unto God.”
Have you thanked God today?
Hebrews 13:15-16 “By Him (Jesus) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
We praise God with song in service and speech and we can do none without thanking Him. Thanking God is a sacrifice of our gratitude for what He has done in and for us.
We are called to give praise to God and we must do that continually. Each time we sing His praises we are to give thanks. And, most importantly, it is only praise when it is by Jesus. Without Him where would we be?
We come to God with all sorts of request. I was thinking what percentage of the time we are talking to God is spent in thanksgiving? What is the first thing you say when you start to pray? Is it Please or Thank You? Is it our petition for want or need or is it gratitude we most often bring before God?
We most certainly must make our needs known, ask and ye shall receive, the Bible instructs. It also instructs us to praise God. We cannot properly praise His name unless we bring with us at prayer time conscious, grateful words of praise and thanksgiving for all He has done for us.
Praise, grateful praise, is not an exercise of duty. Grateful praise comes from a heart that is truly thankful for grace, provision and strength.
For what should we be the most grateful for, our home, our church, our family, our health? While all these are of vital interest without Jesus in the center we only have material gain. By whose authority and grace are we saved, and allowed to come into the presence of almighty God? It is by the name that is above every name, that name is Jesus. We are to call out in His name, sing praises in His name and give thanks for what he has done for us. It is by Jesus, and for Jesus, that our greatest thanks should be offered up to God.
When was the last time you prayed just a prayer of thanks and really meant it? Prayed a prayer of thanksgiving without attaching several petitions. Just said God I just want to tell you how much I love you and just wanted to say thanks.
Psalms 63:3, “Because thy loving kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Philippians 4:6, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known unto God.”
Have you thanked God today?
Friday, April 1, 2011
Salvation
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
When one receives the gift of salvation it is a free gift from God. There are no strings attached no fees to pay no work that has to be done, nothing to fill out. Our salvation is not even dependent on if and when we go to church, what religion we profess or what our social standing is. Salvation is of the Lord, and it is entirely based upon His sovereign grace. In other words we don’t have to do anything to get it other than believe in the Son of God. Salvation comes by faith that Jesus is who He said He is and can do what He said He could do. If our faith is based on anything else it can be easily defeated and derailed. If our salvation was based on how we feel at the moment we would never get saved and would forever be lost and dying. If our salvation is based on emotion then when the preacher stops talking we would be lost and the emotion would die. Then our salvation must be based on our spiritual zeal. No that too has its up and downs it can leave us at any moment. Faith itself is no guarantee we will keep our salvation if that faith is based on the wrong things. You can have all the faith in the world that the church you attend will be there next Sunday, but if you are putting your faith in only that you will get to set in that empty church when Jesus comes to claim His own. The work of Christ is sufficient for salvation. “For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
Grace is a great thing. If we could earn our salvation then we could just as easily loose it. If salvation was based on feelings we could loose our salvation. Let’s face it some days we just don’t feel saved. If we could loose something Jesus died for then every time we lost our salvation we would have to re-crucify Jesus. No one wants to do that. Salvation is by grace, our faith in Jesus Christ will never be dismantled or disappear. You may leave God but God will never leave you. God keeps His promises. Once you accept Jesus as savior that salvation is as secure as God can make it. Once you are in God’s hands you can never be removed. He won’t ever drop you. Before you can have that security you have to trust in Jesus ask Him to come into your heart and forgive you and save you. It is just that simple. Romans 10:10, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
We have a great and loving God who loves us cares for us and doesn’t want any to be lost. Salvation is a gift from God will you accept His gift?
When one receives the gift of salvation it is a free gift from God. There are no strings attached no fees to pay no work that has to be done, nothing to fill out. Our salvation is not even dependent on if and when we go to church, what religion we profess or what our social standing is. Salvation is of the Lord, and it is entirely based upon His sovereign grace. In other words we don’t have to do anything to get it other than believe in the Son of God. Salvation comes by faith that Jesus is who He said He is and can do what He said He could do. If our faith is based on anything else it can be easily defeated and derailed. If our salvation was based on how we feel at the moment we would never get saved and would forever be lost and dying. If our salvation is based on emotion then when the preacher stops talking we would be lost and the emotion would die. Then our salvation must be based on our spiritual zeal. No that too has its up and downs it can leave us at any moment. Faith itself is no guarantee we will keep our salvation if that faith is based on the wrong things. You can have all the faith in the world that the church you attend will be there next Sunday, but if you are putting your faith in only that you will get to set in that empty church when Jesus comes to claim His own. The work of Christ is sufficient for salvation. “For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
Grace is a great thing. If we could earn our salvation then we could just as easily loose it. If salvation was based on feelings we could loose our salvation. Let’s face it some days we just don’t feel saved. If we could loose something Jesus died for then every time we lost our salvation we would have to re-crucify Jesus. No one wants to do that. Salvation is by grace, our faith in Jesus Christ will never be dismantled or disappear. You may leave God but God will never leave you. God keeps His promises. Once you accept Jesus as savior that salvation is as secure as God can make it. Once you are in God’s hands you can never be removed. He won’t ever drop you. Before you can have that security you have to trust in Jesus ask Him to come into your heart and forgive you and save you. It is just that simple. Romans 10:10, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
We have a great and loving God who loves us cares for us and doesn’t want any to be lost. Salvation is a gift from God will you accept His gift?
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