Luke 1:32-33 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Today, as I was reading through the Christmas story in Luke these two verses caught my attention. We are still looking for the promise of Jesus sitting on the throne of his father David in fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant. Jesus shall yet rule on the earth and of his kingdom there shall be no end. We look forward to the day that the angel declares, "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever." (Rev. 11:15)
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
God's Wonderful Provision
God is so incredibly good!!! He provides for us in so many ways.
Yesterday I was doing a little shopping. One of the things I needed was some yarn for Christmas gifts. It just so happened that both kinds of yarn that I needed were on sale. As I walked away from that section of the store, I said, "God, you are so good! Thank you!"
I also needed two other items. When I got to the checkout counter, I realized I did not have my coupon for 50% off which I could have used for one of those items. I almost just checked out, but decided to go to the car to check to see if it was on the car seat. So I left my basket at the checkout counter and went to the car. Much to my disappointment the coupon was not in the car. So I went back in the store and waited in line. Shortly before it was my turn to checkout, the man in front of me turned around and offered me his 50% off coupon that he had been unable to use for his purchase. So I got 50% off, saving $4, which was almost enough to pay for my gas to go to the store. All I could say on the way out of the store is, "God you are so amazing! Thank you for the many ways in which you provide for us."
The timing of having that man at that spot at that moment, made me wonder if perhaps it was angel and a set up by God. It was definitely a setup, but I doubt that it was an angel. Our God sees our greatest and smallest needs. I am so thankful we have a God that cares about each detail of our lives.
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Yesterday I was doing a little shopping. One of the things I needed was some yarn for Christmas gifts. It just so happened that both kinds of yarn that I needed were on sale. As I walked away from that section of the store, I said, "God, you are so good! Thank you!"
I also needed two other items. When I got to the checkout counter, I realized I did not have my coupon for 50% off which I could have used for one of those items. I almost just checked out, but decided to go to the car to check to see if it was on the car seat. So I left my basket at the checkout counter and went to the car. Much to my disappointment the coupon was not in the car. So I went back in the store and waited in line. Shortly before it was my turn to checkout, the man in front of me turned around and offered me his 50% off coupon that he had been unable to use for his purchase. So I got 50% off, saving $4, which was almost enough to pay for my gas to go to the store. All I could say on the way out of the store is, "God you are so amazing! Thank you for the many ways in which you provide for us."
The timing of having that man at that spot at that moment, made me wonder if perhaps it was angel and a set up by God. It was definitely a setup, but I doubt that it was an angel. Our God sees our greatest and smallest needs. I am so thankful we have a God that cares about each detail of our lives.
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Seeing and Believing
John 20:8 Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed. (that other disciple was John)
We see here that John upon entering the empty tomb believed that Jesus was risen from the dead. By contrast later in the chapter we have Thomas expressing his need to not only see Jesus, but to touch the wounds in his hands and his side.
John 20:24-25 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
Even though Thomas needed to see to believe, Jesus did not condemn him. Jesus came and made another appearance so that Thomas could have a chance to see, so that he could believe.
John 20:26-29 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
Although I would like to be more like John, I must admit that I am more often like Thomas.
We see here that John upon entering the empty tomb believed that Jesus was risen from the dead. By contrast later in the chapter we have Thomas expressing his need to not only see Jesus, but to touch the wounds in his hands and his side.
John 20:24-25 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
Even though Thomas needed to see to believe, Jesus did not condemn him. Jesus came and made another appearance so that Thomas could have a chance to see, so that he could believe.
John 20:26-29 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
Although I would like to be more like John, I must admit that I am more often like Thomas.
Monday, November 14, 2011
God Alone
God alone is our defense and defender. We can put our trust in things of this world, but we will find in the end that our true salvation is only in the Lord God Almighty.
Psalm 20:6-7 Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. 7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Hosea 1:7 But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the LORD their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen.
Psalm 20:6-7 Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. 7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Hosea 1:7 But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the LORD their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
At The Feet of Jesus
We often make reference to Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus, as Martha was “cumbered about much serving.” Jesus said, “But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42)
John 11:32-34 Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
Recently while reading through the gospel of John I noticed that being at Jesus’ feet was common for Mary. In John 11, when Jesus had arrived in Bethany after Lazarus died, Mary “fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.” (vs. 32) Martha had said the same thing to him earlier and then had a theological discussion with Him. But when Mary fell at His feet making that statement, it moved His heart.
In John 12, when the dinner was held to honor Lazarus, again Mary is at Jesus' feet. This time she is anointing them with costly oil and wiping them with her hair. This Jesus said was an anointing for his burial and for this she would be known.
There is something about taking the low place at Jesus' feet, the place of a humble servant, that is powerful and effectual.
Luke 10:38-42 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. 41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, 34 And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.
John 12:3, 7-8 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment…… 7 Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. 8 For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Lamentation for America
This week in my Bible class one of the things we were supposed to do is to write a lamentation for our nation on the order of the Ezekiel 19 or the book of the Lamentations of Jeremiah. So I thought I would share my lamentation here. In the book of Lamentations of Jeremiah the lamentations/dirges use a poetic form that followed the Hebrew alphabet. Therefore I have used our alphabet for this, although it is not so poetic.
America, a nation brought forth by God
Blessed so abundantly by your Creator
Centuries of blessing have been yours.
Do you not know, nation so blessed, that God is the reason for your prosperity?
Evil is now said to be good
Folly is embraced in place of wisdom
Good is said to be evil
How can you not see that you have turned the wrong way?
Is the love and blessing of God not enough for you?
Jesus died on the cross, shed his blood for you.
Know that the love of God for you has not changed.
Long has the heart of God been toward you.
May you once again turn your heart back to God.
Nominal love for God and your fellow man are found
On God you refuse to call
Pride does go before your fall
Questioning the Truth of God and that He is truly the Creator is common
Reaping of what you have sowed has begun
Seeds for curses have been sown
Trust in God is on your money, but not in your heart is not known
Ungodly men rule your land
Voices of the aborted, unborn make demands
What more must God do?
Xamine your hearts, I beg of you
You are found lacking as God waits for His Word to be heeded
Zeal for God’s house of prayer is in short supply and sorely needed.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Who am I? Where am I going?
I am a member of the church, the bride of Christ, waiting for my bridegroom. I have been espoused to my bridegroom. With much excitement and anticipation, I am waiting and preparing for the day when He returns for me. I am day by day seeking to walk in righteousness that I, as His bride, may be clothed in “fine linen clean and pure.” (Rev. 19:7-9) Paul spoke to the Corinthians saying that he had espoused them to one husband, the Lord Jesus Christ, and he wanted to one day present them to Christ as a chaste (clean, pure) bride. So am seeking to remain a pure clean virgin, one who is holy and does not go after any other gods. (2 Cor. 11:2) Paul also stated to the Ephesians that Christ was coming back for a church without spot or wrinkle, a church that had been sanctified and cleansed by the Word. So I am seeking to allow Him remove my spots and wrinkles, as I daily allow His Word to do its work in me. (Eph. 5:26-27) I am ultimately headed to that place that my bridegroom went to prepare for me. (John 14:2-3)
Rev. 19:7-9 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God
2 Cor. 11:2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
Ephesians 5:26-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
John 14:2-3 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Am I My Brother's Keeper?
In Gen. 4:9, Cain asked “Am I my brother’s keeper?” This was asked after killing his brother because of jealousy. For this sin against his brother he was cursed, his ability for fruitful farming removed, and he was sentenced to a life of being a fugitive and vagabond (Gen. 4:12). This act of not being his brother's keeper was very costly.
The word used here for “keeper” (Hebrew shamar ) means “to guard, to protect, to attend, or to regard.” As a Christian I believe I am my brother’s keeper in exactly all those ways. I am responsible before God for how I treat both my natural and spiritual brothers. I can be his keeper by praying for him and ministering to him. Sometimes that ministry may involve being God’s messenger. Being God’s messenger would mean “speaking the truth in love,”(Eph. 4:15) even when it is difficult or the brother may take offense. Being my brother’s keeper does not involve trying to control his life for him nor am responsible for his actions. It does not mean trying to be the Holy Spirit in my brother’s life, but it does mean being obedient to the Holy Spirit.
I believe being my “brother’s keeper” is part of “love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Matt. 22:39, Luke 10:27) The motivating factor needs to be a heart of love and compassion for my brother, under the leading of the Holy Spirit. If I do not look out for our brother it can be costly to him and to me.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Thy Kingdom Come
Matthew 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
When I pray “thy kingdom come,” I think of God manifesting His kingdom here on the earth in people getting saved and healed and delivered. When a person is born again they become part of the kingdom of God. (Colossians 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: ) Once a person says “yes” to Jesus, their life is now under the ruler ship of a new King. As that rule of God is manifested in their life, they get healed and delivered. So in one sense I am asking Jesus to reveal Himself to more people as the real King.
When I pray “thy kingdom come,” I think of God manifesting His kingdom here on the earth in people getting saved and healed and delivered. When a person is born again they become part of the kingdom of God. (Colossians 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: ) Once a person says “yes” to Jesus, their life is now under the ruler ship of a new King. As that rule of God is manifested in their life, they get healed and delivered. So in one sense I am asking Jesus to reveal Himself to more people as the real King.
The ultimate fulfillment of the “Thy kingdom come,” is when Jesus returns to the earth to establish His rule on this earth, to establish the millennial kingdom on this earth . This reminds me of Revelation 22:17 “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come….” I do so look forward to the return of the Lord to establish His kingdom on the earth.
2 Peter 3:12 “waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God…” seems to suggest that I can hasten the coming of the “day of God.” (There are some prominent teachers/scholars who believe this to be true.) The fullness of the Gentiles can be brought in sooner. (Romans 11:25) As a result Jesus can return sooner. So when I pray “Thy kingdom come,” I am seeking to hasten the Lord’s return.
The signs we see around us everyday hint to the fact that we are coming closer to that day. Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
THY KINGDOM COME!!! KING JESUS BRING YOUR KINGDOM!!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Stewardship Of My Heart
What is your most important stewardship?
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” 1 Peter 3:15
According to Chuck Missler, our teacher for this course on 1 & 2 Peter, “my heart is my most important stewardship.” I think I have to agree with him. How I take care of my heart will affect everything else in my life.
What I allow to be in my heart affects everything else I do and say, whether good or bad. What I allow my eyes to see and my ears to hear affects my heart. What I allow myself to think upon affects my heart. (Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.)
Here are some scriptures that speak to this subject:
Luke 6:45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Matthew 12:33-3733Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. 34O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 36But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (In Matthew Henry’s commentary on these verses, he says, “the heart is the treasury, the words are the things brought out of that treasury and from hence men's characters may be drawn, and may be judged of” Our heart and our words are connected. If my heart is focused on Him, my words will be also)
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.
Proverbs 11:22 They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.
Proverbs 14:30 A sound heart [is] the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour [is] humility.
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” 1 Peter 3:15
According to Chuck Missler, our teacher for this course on 1 & 2 Peter, “my heart is my most important stewardship.” I think I have to agree with him. How I take care of my heart will affect everything else in my life.
What I allow to be in my heart affects everything else I do and say, whether good or bad. What I allow my eyes to see and my ears to hear affects my heart. What I allow myself to think upon affects my heart. (Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.)
Here are some scriptures that speak to this subject:
Luke 6:45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Matthew 12:33-3733Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. 34O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 36But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (In Matthew Henry’s commentary on these verses, he says, “the heart is the treasury, the words are the things brought out of that treasury and from hence men's characters may be drawn, and may be judged of” Our heart and our words are connected. If my heart is focused on Him, my words will be also)
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.
Proverbs 11:22 They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.
Proverbs 14:30 A sound heart [is] the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour [is] humility.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Partakers of the Glory
How do you become a “partaker” of “the glory to be revealed” (1 Pet 5:1) and spiritually “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ”? (2 Pet 3:18)
When I think of glory I think of the fullness and purity of all that God is. In Exodus 33:18, Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” God’s response was that he would let his goodness pass by and proclaim his name. (Ex.. 33:19) The account of that actually happening is in Exodus 34:5-7. I believe this was God revealing a small amount of His glory because Moses would have been destroyed if the fullness of it had passed by.
On the Mount of Transfiguration the three disciples got a glimpse of the glory of God that was revealed from within Jesus Christ. On Mt. of Transfiguration Jesus was allowed let that glory that was within Him, cloaked in human flesh, be seen when He stood there before His disciples. (Mt. 17:1-2)
Both Paul and Peter speak in their epistles about the glory of God. They seem to indicate that as we spiritually “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” (2 Pet 3:18) we will be partakers of more and more of His glory.
As we gaze upon the Lord within His written Word and as we meditate upon Him, we can be changed to become more like Him, if we allow the Word and His character to be worked into our lives. As a result we will reflect the same glory that is in Him.
2 Cor. 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Another way in which the glory of God is worked into our lives is through suffering. If we respond appropriately to suffering we will be changed more into the likeness of our Lord by it.
2 Cor. 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day.17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.
1 Peter 4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
On this earth we don’t see the His glory within Christians. Some people do have a glow about them and the character of Christ is manifested in how they live their lives. But the fullness of the glory of God within will be manifested later. Just like when Jesus walked the earth, the glory within Him was not revealed except on the Mt. of Transfiguration. But when we are clothed in our glorified bodies, the glory will be revealed. I believe that is probably what Peter is referring when when he speaks of becoming "partaker of the glory that shall be revealed" (1 Peter 5:1).
Friday, July 29, 2011
Praying for Those in Authority
I would like to follow up on yesterdays post.....
I do believe in civil disobedience, i.e. not obeying government leaders that are in opposition to the Word of God. But that does not negate our responsiblity to pray for that leadership. We still need to obey the Word of God to pray for those in authority.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
When the leadership is evil that is all the more reason to pray more diligently for those leaders. It is even a reason to bless them.
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you
Romans 12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
In the USA at this time the government seems to becoming more and more opposed to Christianity. Being a Christian is becoming more and more politically incorrect. As Christians I believe we need to be even more diligent than ever in praying for our leaders and for our nation. I also believe it is a time to be making a determination in our hearts that we are going to stand for the Lord Jesus Christ, no matter what the cost.
I believe we are headed into a time in this country when we as Christians are going to have to make some tough choices and we are going to have to band together like never before. The body of Christ is going to have to truly become the body of Christ. Not only do we need to pray for those in authority, but we need to pray for one another, that we may boldly stand for Truth.
I do believe in civil disobedience, i.e. not obeying government leaders that are in opposition to the Word of God. But that does not negate our responsiblity to pray for that leadership. We still need to obey the Word of God to pray for those in authority.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
When the leadership is evil that is all the more reason to pray more diligently for those leaders. It is even a reason to bless them.
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you
Romans 12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
In the USA at this time the government seems to becoming more and more opposed to Christianity. Being a Christian is becoming more and more politically incorrect. As Christians I believe we need to be even more diligent than ever in praying for our leaders and for our nation. I also believe it is a time to be making a determination in our hearts that we are going to stand for the Lord Jesus Christ, no matter what the cost.
I believe we are headed into a time in this country when we as Christians are going to have to make some tough choices and we are going to have to band together like never before. The body of Christ is going to have to truly become the body of Christ. Not only do we need to pray for those in authority, but we need to pray for one another, that we may boldly stand for Truth.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Responding to Evil Leadership
As Christians what should our response be to evil leaders?
God has put governmental authorities in place to be His representatives in the earth to maintain order and deal with evil deeds. But when the leader is the one performing the evil deeds and requiring his subjects to perform deeds contrary to the Word of God, then that evil authority should not be obeyed.
Romans 13:1 tells us to "be subject to higher powers." In verse 3 of Romans 13 it says that the rulers are a terror to evil. When they are no longer a terror to evil and are evil themselves I believe we must stand against that evil. When man’s requirements are contrary to God's Word, we must obey God rather than man, (Act 4:19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.)
Recently I have been studying the life and writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He was a Lutheran pastor in Nazi Germany. He was one of the few church leaders/pastors who took a stand against Hitler and the evil Nazi policies from the very beginning. Eventually, at the request of his brother-in-law and after much agony over the decision, Dietrich joined the resistance movement within the government who were trying to do what they could to get Hitler out of power. They hoped to stop the evil that was being perpetrated upon the German people, those being conquered, and especially upon the Jews. Bonhoeffer spent the last couple of years of his life in prison and was hung just weeks before WWII came to an end, for his participation in the resistance. This is an example of a Christian who felt he could not submit to the evil requirements of an evil leadership. I personally applaud his actions within the church. But I am still wrestling with the idea of his involvement in actively trying to take down the government. Romans 13:1-7 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Here is a link to a pretty good article about this by Chuck Baldwin, a pastor, radio broadcaster, and syndicated columnist. http://www.chuckbaldwinlive.com/c2007/cbarchive_20070810.html
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Discussion Question Posts
I have been taking some Bible courses through an online Bible Institute. One of the things we have to do each week is respond to two discussion questions. So I am going to be taking some of my answers to some of those questions and making them into blog posts. In fact "Kingdom Perspective" was one such post. I may or may not indicate whether the blog post is from the courses. But if the post starts with a question, it most likely came from one of my courses.
I would be glad to have a dialog with you concerning my posts either through your comments or by email. My email address for this blog is in my profile.
I would be glad to have a dialog with you concerning my posts either through your comments or by email. My email address for this blog is in my profile.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Kingdom Perspective
What is kingdom perspective? Does behavior matter?
2 Timothy 2:12 12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
Rev. 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
Sometimes I like to get a clearer definition of something before I address it. So I looked up the words “kingdom” and “perspective” in the Webster’s dictionary.
The definition I liked best for kingdom is: “the realm in which God’s will is fulfilled”. The first two definition were 1) kingship 2) a politically organized community or major territorial unit having a monarchical form of government headed by a king or queen
The definitions for Perspective 1) archaic “an optical glass” (as a telescope) 2) a: the interrelation in which a subject or its parts are mentally viewed also: point of view b: the capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance
We need to live our Christian lives looking down through the telescope of time, looking forward to the time that the fullness of Jesus’ kingdom is established in the earth. We need to look forward to the time when Jesus will truly be king on the earth. Right now he can be king in our individual lives and His kingdom authority can be exercised through our lives where each one of us lives. But there is coming a day when He will rule the whole earth. At that time there will be those who rule and reign with Him. I believe who rules and reigns and in what capacity are determined by how we live our lives now. Therefore behavior matters.
2 Timothy 2:12 12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
Rev. 5:9-10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
I believe that is what certain of the parables are speaking of, the fact that how we live our lives here and what we do with the giftings God has given us will make a difference in the kingdom to come. Some examples: Matthew 24:44-51; Luke 12: 42-48; Matt. 25:1-30; Luke 19:12-27
To me every Christian should live their lives with a Kingdom perspective. Jesus Christ preached the gospel of the kingdom of God. (Mark 1:14-15) He spoke much about the kingdom. Jesus said, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” (Matt. 24:13) Jesus also admonished us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) So it behooves us to live our lives every day with the kingdom of God in mind.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Preaching Repentance As An Act of Love
Preaching repentance does not seem to be popular. It may make some people uncomfortable. Although preaching the need for repentance may be unpopular today, it is very scriptural.
-John the Baptist preached repentance in preparation for the revelation of Jesus Christ. (Matt. 3:1-2 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.)
-Jesus preached repentance. (Matt. 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. )
-On the day of Pentecost, Peter preached repentance. (Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.)
-Jesus preached repentance again in the book of Revelation, in the letter to the Laodiceans. (Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.)
It is at this verse I want to stop and say more. In this letter to the Laodiceans, Jesus is saying that it is because He loves them that He rebukes and chastens in order to bring to repentance. Our God is always motivated by love, because He is love. For some reason we seem to get the idea that confronting someone with their sin in order to see them repent is unkind or unloving. Now it can be done in a very unkind and unloving way. But done appropriately under the leading of the Holy Spirit is truly an act of love.
The Bible says to speak the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ) This speaking the truth in love is for the purpose that we may grow, so that we may mature as the body of Christ. Also in Proverbs 27:6 we are told "Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful." Sometimes the truth hurts. So does surgery to take out a cancerous tumor. But that surgery can be the very thing that saves your life and leads to health.
So we see from these scriptures that preaching repentance and confronting sin is a very loving act that can lead to health and growth.
-John the Baptist preached repentance in preparation for the revelation of Jesus Christ. (Matt. 3:1-2 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.)
-Jesus preached repentance. (Matt. 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. )
-On the day of Pentecost, Peter preached repentance. (Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.)
-Jesus preached repentance again in the book of Revelation, in the letter to the Laodiceans. (Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.)
It is at this verse I want to stop and say more. In this letter to the Laodiceans, Jesus is saying that it is because He loves them that He rebukes and chastens in order to bring to repentance. Our God is always motivated by love, because He is love. For some reason we seem to get the idea that confronting someone with their sin in order to see them repent is unkind or unloving. Now it can be done in a very unkind and unloving way. But done appropriately under the leading of the Holy Spirit is truly an act of love.
The Bible says to speak the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ) This speaking the truth in love is for the purpose that we may grow, so that we may mature as the body of Christ. Also in Proverbs 27:6 we are told "Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful." Sometimes the truth hurts. So does surgery to take out a cancerous tumor. But that surgery can be the very thing that saves your life and leads to health.
So we see from these scriptures that preaching repentance and confronting sin is a very loving act that can lead to health and growth.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
He Exists
Heb. 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Above all we must believe that "He is." We must believe that God exists. Over the past century there has been an incredible attack on the fact that God exists. Many declare there is no God. Others say God is dead. Some say that God is whoever or whatever you want Him to be. All these are lies of the enemy who desires to be God and to take God's place.
If there is no God, there is no creator who has every right to our allegiance. If there is no God there is no one to whom we must give account for our lives. If there is no God there are no moral absolutes. As a result of this every man does what is right in his own eyes. This always leads to disastrous results.
Believing that God exists is the beginning point of true faith.
(You may want to look at my blog post for July 6, 2009 "The Uncreated Creator")
Above all we must believe that "He is." We must believe that God exists. Over the past century there has been an incredible attack on the fact that God exists. Many declare there is no God. Others say God is dead. Some say that God is whoever or whatever you want Him to be. All these are lies of the enemy who desires to be God and to take God's place.
If there is no God, there is no creator who has every right to our allegiance. If there is no God there is no one to whom we must give account for our lives. If there is no God there are no moral absolutes. As a result of this every man does what is right in his own eyes. This always leads to disastrous results.
Believing that God exists is the beginning point of true faith.
(You may want to look at my blog post for July 6, 2009 "The Uncreated Creator")
He Is A Rewarder
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Heb. 11:6
When Jesus returns to the earth every person who has believed upon the Lord Jesus Christ will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and will be rewarded based on how he/she has lived his/her life.
I think too many people are coasting along on the fact that they have made a profession of faith and believe that is all that is required of them. Far too few understand that the profession of faith in Jesus Christ is just the first step, the foundation upon which your life is then built.
1 Cor. 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Matt. 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
Heb. 11:6
When Jesus returns to the earth every person who has believed upon the Lord Jesus Christ will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and will be rewarded based on how he/she has lived his/her life.
I think too many people are coasting along on the fact that they have made a profession of faith and believe that is all that is required of them. Far too few understand that the profession of faith in Jesus Christ is just the first step, the foundation upon which your life is then built.
1 Cor. 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Matt. 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
Diligently Seek Him
Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is the rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
This verse is a familiar verse, especially the first phrase...we must have faith in order to please God. Recently the second part of the verse really registered in my mind as I read it. When we come to God we must believe that He exists AND that He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Salvation starts with believing that God exists and that Jesus died for our sins. (Romans 10:9-10) But beyond that there is also the need to seek Him. As we seek Him we can know that He will reward us accordingly. I believe that our eternal reward is important to keep in mind as we serve God. Hebrews 11 goes on to talk about those who pressed on to that thing which God had promised them, that reward that would be theirs. Not that we serve God for the purpose of getting something. We already received more than we could ever imagine by being saved from hell and death and being delivered from our sins.
This verse is a familiar verse, especially the first phrase...we must have faith in order to please God. Recently the second part of the verse really registered in my mind as I read it. When we come to God we must believe that He exists AND that He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Salvation starts with believing that God exists and that Jesus died for our sins. (Romans 10:9-10) But beyond that there is also the need to seek Him. As we seek Him we can know that He will reward us accordingly. I believe that our eternal reward is important to keep in mind as we serve God. Hebrews 11 goes on to talk about those who pressed on to that thing which God had promised them, that reward that would be theirs. Not that we serve God for the purpose of getting something. We already received more than we could ever imagine by being saved from hell and death and being delivered from our sins.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Prayer Focus-Japan
Several weeks ago I said I was going to make Saturday "Prayer Focus" posts, which I have not done. But I will do "Prayer Focus" posts from time to time. I believe prayer is incredibly powerful and can change nations. As we all know there has been an ongoing crisis in the nation of Japan due to the earthquake and the tsunami and nuclear crisis that ensued as a result. Ongoing prayer for the Japanese people is needed in the midst of this for their physical/natural needs. This is also a time to increase our prayer focus for the spiritual needs of the people of Japan.
As I watched reports from Japan often reports referred to the people's Buddhist and Shinto faith. There was no mention of Christians or churches. That is probably because Japan is only about 1 percent Christian. To me that is a staggeringly low number when you consider that China is believed to be at least 7 percent Christian.
Historically the Japanese have not been open to Christianity. When I was in Okinawa, Japan in 1985-86, a Japanese friend told me that Christianity was an American religion and she did not want anything to do with it. I have known missionaries who have worked there for many years with very few converts. This crisis may be the very thing thing that will cause the people of Japan to open their hearts the Lord Jesus Christ.
In the blog list on the right you can click on the blog of a couple that are ministering in Japan. (Step Into Japan With Us!) You can read first hand reports. You can also check out info about their ministry and about the nation of Japan. Here is a link to a page that gives good info about the country: http://www.lavermansinjapan.org/aboutjapan
Monday, April 11, 2011
Truly Living
One time someone was telling me about some people they knew that had boats and nice houses and spent a lot of time on their boats and in other recreational activities. The person said to me, “They know how to live.” The people she was telling me about did not know Christ. In advertising, TV shows, and movies they depict for us what is supposed to be “the good life,” what to them truly living looks like. But that is not truly living. Unless you have Christ who is the life, you are not living. The only real way to live is in Christ. Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory John 1:4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 1 John 5:11-12 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Steadfast Love and Mercy
Psalm 147 :11 in the ESV uses the words "steadfast love" in place of "mercy." When I read that last night is reminded me of the song we used to sing from Lamentation 3:22-23. Lamentation 3:22-25 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness. "The LORD is my portion." says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him." (ESV) I chose to add the two additional verses because they seem to complete the thought to me. Again, as in Ps. 147:11, our only real hope is in the LORD, in His mercy or steadfast love. I like that word "steadfast." It means firm and never changing. God's love and mercy are connected and both are firm and never changing. That makes me feel secure to know that these characteristics of God will not change. Another verse that this reminds me of is, Psalm 103:4 "Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies." I remember reading somewhere or in another translation that "crowneth" means to "surround." So God surrounds us, perhaps like a hug or shield with His lovingkindness and tender mercies. This also makes me feel secure. In Ps. 103:4, we also see yet another aspect of God's mercy....it is tender. That makes me feel safe.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Hope In His Mercy
Psalm 147:10-11 He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. 11The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
I find this scripture very comforting. I am very thankful that God takes pleasure in those who hope in His mercy. Really His mercy is my only hope. Because I am a sinner, it is only God's mercy that preserves me from being destroyed.
God loves me as I am. But He also desires that I become all that He created me to be. His love provides me with all I need in order to fulfill His will. The mercy of God is part of that provision. I consistently sin and because of His mercy I am not destroyed and am given another chance.
He takes pleasure when we choose to hope in Him, in His mercy, rather than hope in ourselves or our own strength.
I find this scripture very comforting. I am very thankful that God takes pleasure in those who hope in His mercy. Really His mercy is my only hope. Because I am a sinner, it is only God's mercy that preserves me from being destroyed.
God loves me as I am. But He also desires that I become all that He created me to be. His love provides me with all I need in order to fulfill His will. The mercy of God is part of that provision. I consistently sin and because of His mercy I am not destroyed and am given another chance.
He takes pleasure when we choose to hope in Him, in His mercy, rather than hope in ourselves or our own strength.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
I Am A Warrior
Joel 3:10 Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, "I am strong." KJV
I want to focus on "let the weak say I am strong." Last night I was reading this in the ESV and it translates this to say "let the weak say I am a warrior." That really ignited something in me. I woke up this morning declaring "I AM A WARRIOR." I am a warrior in the kingdom of God, no matter how weak or puny I feel. "I AM A WARRIOR"
We are in a constant war zone, with entities of the kingdom of darkness all around. But Romans 8:37 says I am more than a conqueror through Christ. The word "conquerors" in that scripture means to "gain a decisive victory." Not just a victory, but a decisive victory.
So not only am I a warrior, but through Christ I have already won a decisive victory.
I want to focus on "let the weak say I am strong." Last night I was reading this in the ESV and it translates this to say "let the weak say I am a warrior." That really ignited something in me. I woke up this morning declaring "I AM A WARRIOR." I am a warrior in the kingdom of God, no matter how weak or puny I feel. "I AM A WARRIOR"
We are in a constant war zone, with entities of the kingdom of darkness all around. But Romans 8:37 says I am more than a conqueror through Christ. The word "conquerors" in that scripture means to "gain a decisive victory." Not just a victory, but a decisive victory.
So not only am I a warrior, but through Christ I have already won a decisive victory.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Always Enough
Continuing on the theme of the Lord's provision for His people...Back when I was in Bible school my school bill had reached a point where I was going to have to leave school if I did not have money by the end of the week. As I sought the Lord He spoke to me from the following Scripture passage.
1 Kings 17:13-16 And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. 14For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth. 15And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days. 16And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by Elijah.
God told me that just like when this woman went to the barrel for meal and to the cruse for oil there was always enough for each day, I would always have enough. I may not have an abundance, but I could always be assured of the Lord's provision of enough for my needs. That was 30 years ago and God has always been faithful to that word......Oh and by the way someone paid off my school bill by Friday and I was able to continue at the Bible school.
1 Kings 17:13-16 And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. 14For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth. 15And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days. 16And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by Elijah.
God told me that just like when this woman went to the barrel for meal and to the cruse for oil there was always enough for each day, I would always have enough. I may not have an abundance, but I could always be assured of the Lord's provision of enough for my needs. That was 30 years ago and God has always been faithful to that word......Oh and by the way someone paid off my school bill by Friday and I was able to continue at the Bible school.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
I Shall Not Want
Psalm 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
I have been sharing a series of short teachings on Psalm 23 at church mostly geared to the kids on the Sundays that they stay in the adult service. So recently I have been spending time in that Psalm once again. Tonight I was thinking again about verse one, especially the second part.
It is because the Lord is my shepherd that I will not be in want. He is a good shepherd and knows my every need. He is my creator. Who better than my creator to know my needs.
I shall not want does not mean I will get everything I think I want or need. I may get the things I want but that is not guaranteed.
It does mean that Jesus who knows best will give me what he knows I need when I need it---I know I can trust him to be a good shepherd and take good care of me in every situation.
I believe David had come to know God well enough/ was in relationship with God in such a way that he trusted him to take good care of him even in the really hard times.
Phillip Keller, in the book "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23," says the main concept is of not lacking in proper care or management--also the idea of being utterly contented in the Good Shepherd’s care and consequently not craving or desiring anything else. Staying in his care and not continually jumping the fence and leaving the care of the good shepherd.
I have been sharing a series of short teachings on Psalm 23 at church mostly geared to the kids on the Sundays that they stay in the adult service. So recently I have been spending time in that Psalm once again. Tonight I was thinking again about verse one, especially the second part.
It is because the Lord is my shepherd that I will not be in want. He is a good shepherd and knows my every need. He is my creator. Who better than my creator to know my needs.
I shall not want does not mean I will get everything I think I want or need. I may get the things I want but that is not guaranteed.
It does mean that Jesus who knows best will give me what he knows I need when I need it---I know I can trust him to be a good shepherd and take good care of me in every situation.
I believe David had come to know God well enough/ was in relationship with God in such a way that he trusted him to take good care of him even in the really hard times.
Phillip Keller, in the book "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23," says the main concept is of not lacking in proper care or management--also the idea of being utterly contented in the Good Shepherd’s care and consequently not craving or desiring anything else. Staying in his care and not continually jumping the fence and leaving the care of the good shepherd.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Prayer Focus-Persecuted Church
We here in the United States have no idea what it is like to live within a country where we have no freedom to openly express our Christian beliefs. We can freely attend church, buy and read Bibles, read and publish Christian writings on the inter net, attend Christian conferences,purchase Christian materials at Bible bookstores, etc. We are incredibly blessed in this way. And most of the time we do not really appreciate it.
About 17 years ago, I had a very brief experience in a country where the people do not have the freedoms that I just mentioned. During the week that we were there a church around the corner from our hotel was closed down and the pastor was put in jail. We were followed to every church we went to the first two nights. After that government officials came to our hotel and forbid us to participate in any more church services. The large open air evangelistic meeting we were supposed to participate in was cancelled, even though proper permits had been gotten. I believe some of the restrictions were put on us because we were a much larger group than they had anticipated and it was too difficult to keep constant surveillance on all of us. There were even men in the lobby of our hotel that kept tabs on us. We had been warned before we entered the country to be careful about what we said even when we thought no one was around.
Before the ultimatum was given concerning not going to any more churches, two groups of us had already left the capital city to go to outlying cities to preach. We were followed, but were not harassed. We had some very good meetings. The people were incredibly hungry for the Word. They crammed into the house church for the meetings, sitting on the floor filling every inch of space, and gathered outside the windows to hear what was being said. Only a handful had Bibles. It was an incredible experience.
The tension we felt constantly while being watched and followed was difficult to deal with and it was just for one week. I can't imagine what it must be like to live like that constantly. Although at that time the church was not severely persecuted, there certainly was not much freedom.
That experience made me much more appreciative of the freedoms I have in this country.
In the coming weeks I will be sharing info about the persecuted church. In the mean time here are a couple of scriptures to ponder in light of the persecution that many of our Christian brothers and sisters are experiencing today.
Hebrews 13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
1 Corinthians 12:26-27 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
About 17 years ago, I had a very brief experience in a country where the people do not have the freedoms that I just mentioned. During the week that we were there a church around the corner from our hotel was closed down and the pastor was put in jail. We were followed to every church we went to the first two nights. After that government officials came to our hotel and forbid us to participate in any more church services. The large open air evangelistic meeting we were supposed to participate in was cancelled, even though proper permits had been gotten. I believe some of the restrictions were put on us because we were a much larger group than they had anticipated and it was too difficult to keep constant surveillance on all of us. There were even men in the lobby of our hotel that kept tabs on us. We had been warned before we entered the country to be careful about what we said even when we thought no one was around.
Before the ultimatum was given concerning not going to any more churches, two groups of us had already left the capital city to go to outlying cities to preach. We were followed, but were not harassed. We had some very good meetings. The people were incredibly hungry for the Word. They crammed into the house church for the meetings, sitting on the floor filling every inch of space, and gathered outside the windows to hear what was being said. Only a handful had Bibles. It was an incredible experience.
The tension we felt constantly while being watched and followed was difficult to deal with and it was just for one week. I can't imagine what it must be like to live like that constantly. Although at that time the church was not severely persecuted, there certainly was not much freedom.
That experience made me much more appreciative of the freedoms I have in this country.
In the coming weeks I will be sharing info about the persecuted church. In the mean time here are a couple of scriptures to ponder in light of the persecution that many of our Christian brothers and sisters are experiencing today.
Hebrews 13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
1 Corinthians 12:26-27 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Lamb Of God
John the Baptist evidently had a special revelation from God concerning Jesus being the Lamb of God. The concept of the Messiah being a lamb seems to have been a foreign concept to the religious leaders and teachers of the day. They were looking for their Messiah to be a king coming to conquer the natural, earthly, political rulers of the day and set them free.
Jesus indeed was a conqueror in the form of a lamb, who went to the slaughter, winning a mighty victory over the spiritual kingdom of darkness and set us free from all the works of the evil one. In His second coming the final showdown of that victory will be manifest in the natural, in the establishing of the Kingdom of God in the earth, toppling all other kingdoms. Hallelujah!!!!
The word "lamb" is found 31 times in the KJV of the New Testament. All but two of those are found in the writings of John. Two of the times that John uses the word "lamb" are in John 1:29 & 36. The other 27 times that John uses the word "lamb" are all in the book of Revelation.
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
The following is the final passage of the Bible in which the word "lamb" is used. The Lamb is on His throne.
Revelation 22:1-5 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: 4And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 5And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
Jesus indeed was a conqueror in the form of a lamb, who went to the slaughter, winning a mighty victory over the spiritual kingdom of darkness and set us free from all the works of the evil one. In His second coming the final showdown of that victory will be manifest in the natural, in the establishing of the Kingdom of God in the earth, toppling all other kingdoms. Hallelujah!!!!
The word "lamb" is found 31 times in the KJV of the New Testament. All but two of those are found in the writings of John. Two of the times that John uses the word "lamb" are in John 1:29 & 36. The other 27 times that John uses the word "lamb" are all in the book of Revelation.
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
The following is the final passage of the Bible in which the word "lamb" is used. The Lamb is on His throne.
Revelation 22:1-5 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: 4And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 5And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
I Am My Beloved's
The Song of Solomon is a love story that can be applied to the love relationship between Christ and His church or individual believers. In this story the love relationship deepens as the story goes on.
Song of Solomon 2:16 My beloved is mine, and I am his We see here a focus on self. Jesus in mine and secondarily I am His. This would lead to a focus on the personal needs of the individual.
Song of Solomon 6:3 I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine. Here there has been some growth to where the focus is on the fact that she belongs to Jesus and secondarily He is hers. Out of this there would come more of a focus on what Jesus would want in a situation and not just her personal needs.
Song of Solomon 7:10 I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me. At this point in the love relationship the central focus is on Jesus. Now she can operate in oneness with Him.
In the past I thought that this last step meant she would need to grow to the point of being worthy of His desire being toward her, of having to become mature enough to warrant His attention. Thus this love is something she had to earn. But I have come to believe that this is not the case. I believe that this is the point at which she finally realizes the truth that really she is His and His desire is toward her. His desire has been toward her all along. Now she finally knows it. Finally all the other stuff that has kept her from this truth have been stripped away. Now all the distractions, all other loves, have been stripped away and she can fully submit to His desires knowing that He always has her best interest at heart. Now she really knows Jesus loves her.
Song of Solomon 2:16 My beloved is mine, and I am his We see here a focus on self. Jesus in mine and secondarily I am His. This would lead to a focus on the personal needs of the individual.
Song of Solomon 6:3 I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine. Here there has been some growth to where the focus is on the fact that she belongs to Jesus and secondarily He is hers. Out of this there would come more of a focus on what Jesus would want in a situation and not just her personal needs.
Song of Solomon 7:10 I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me. At this point in the love relationship the central focus is on Jesus. Now she can operate in oneness with Him.
In the past I thought that this last step meant she would need to grow to the point of being worthy of His desire being toward her, of having to become mature enough to warrant His attention. Thus this love is something she had to earn. But I have come to believe that this is not the case. I believe that this is the point at which she finally realizes the truth that really she is His and His desire is toward her. His desire has been toward her all along. Now she finally knows it. Finally all the other stuff that has kept her from this truth have been stripped away. Now all the distractions, all other loves, have been stripped away and she can fully submit to His desires knowing that He always has her best interest at heart. Now she really knows Jesus loves her.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Because Of Jesus
Ephesians 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
This scripture blows me away every time I read it.
Before I was even conceived, God chose me. Actually before the foundation of the world...that is so incredible!!! He loved me. He wanted me. He had a plan for my life. He has always loved me and always will. His love for me has never been nor ever will be dependent on what I have done or have not done. It is and always will be a fact. Jesus loves me for the Bible tells me so.
I am fully accepted by God in Jesus Christ, because of a relationship with Christ by which I become one with Him. Because of what Jesus did I can stand before God, holy and without blame. Because of Jesus I am acceptable to God, not because of anything I have done or ever will do.
God, You sent your Son to this earth and He was rejected and despised by most, and yet went to the cross that each of us would have a means of being forgiven all and to come into a heavenly inheritance in Christ.
God, You chose me by the good pleasure of Your will. You chose me to be born in this time to be part of what You are doing in the earth at this time. The fact that all of this would bring You pleasure is amazing to me. The God of the universe can take pleasure in my life. How awesome!!
This scripture blows me away every time I read it.
Before I was even conceived, God chose me. Actually before the foundation of the world...that is so incredible!!! He loved me. He wanted me. He had a plan for my life. He has always loved me and always will. His love for me has never been nor ever will be dependent on what I have done or have not done. It is and always will be a fact. Jesus loves me for the Bible tells me so.
I am fully accepted by God in Jesus Christ, because of a relationship with Christ by which I become one with Him. Because of what Jesus did I can stand before God, holy and without blame. Because of Jesus I am acceptable to God, not because of anything I have done or ever will do.
God, You sent your Son to this earth and He was rejected and despised by most, and yet went to the cross that each of us would have a means of being forgiven all and to come into a heavenly inheritance in Christ.
God, You chose me by the good pleasure of Your will. You chose me to be born in this time to be part of what You are doing in the earth at this time. The fact that all of this would bring You pleasure is amazing to me. The God of the universe can take pleasure in my life. How awesome!!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Prayer Focus-USA
I am thinking I would like to do a post each Saturday for a prayer focus, highlighting some particular area of need either here in the USA or in a foreign country. Our missions focus sometimes within the church fails to look at or minister to needs right here in our own country. Anyone who knows me is well aware of my interest in foreign missions over the years. But at this time the need here in our own nation is so great that I believe more of a home mission focus is needed within the church. We need to be ministering to the needs across the street as well as those across the globe.
When I was a missions director in a church, in Burlington, MA, a little over 10 years ago, I read an article that said that at that time the USA was only nation in the world where Christianity was losing ground and that Islam was the fastest growing religion in the USA. I don't know what those stats are now. But I can't imagine they are any better.
Here is the title of an article by the Barna Group that I consider alarming: "Unchurched Population Nears 100 Million in the U.S." That means 33% of the population fits in that category. According to this 2007 article this statistic has stayed relatively unchanged since 1994. In the early nineties about 20% were unchurched. So we see that we are not making any progress here at this time. I realize going to church does not make a person a Christian. But I still believe this trend needs to stop. We need to pray for the USA. (To find this article do a search for Barna Grouop and the article title.)
When Jesus commissioned the disciples just before His ascension, he told them to go to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the world. You notice that they were to start where they were, in Jerusalem. We need to start where we are.
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
When I was a missions director in a church, in Burlington, MA, a little over 10 years ago, I read an article that said that at that time the USA was only nation in the world where Christianity was losing ground and that Islam was the fastest growing religion in the USA. I don't know what those stats are now. But I can't imagine they are any better.
Here is the title of an article by the Barna Group that I consider alarming: "Unchurched Population Nears 100 Million in the U.S." That means 33% of the population fits in that category. According to this 2007 article this statistic has stayed relatively unchanged since 1994. In the early nineties about 20% were unchurched. So we see that we are not making any progress here at this time. I realize going to church does not make a person a Christian. But I still believe this trend needs to stop. We need to pray for the USA. (To find this article do a search for Barna Grouop and the article title.)
When Jesus commissioned the disciples just before His ascension, he told them to go to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the world. You notice that they were to start where they were, in Jerusalem. We need to start where we are.
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Friday, February 11, 2011
My Weakness, God's Strength
One night, a few years ago, as I was praying I started to ask God to give me strength. Then I stopped and corrected myself and asked God to be my strength. I am sure it was God that caused me to make that correction in my prayer. I immediately thought of 2 Corinthians 12:9, "my strength is made perfect in weakness." I said, "God, I don't like feeling so weak." His immediate response was, "you might as well get used to it." I chuckled. Even now as I think about this, it brings a smile to my face.
I truly am weak and would do well to recognize that on a daily/moment by moment basis God is my strength, rather than trying to do things in my own strength. God wants to be the strength of my life and carry the burdens and responsibilities, resulting in a walk of peace and rest.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
I grew up believing that being weak is a bad thing. But God has been showing me that it is not the case. My attempts to walk in my own strength have just gotten in the way. The reality is that even when I thought I was strong I was really weak and always have been. By trying to give the illusion of being strong I have just worn myself out trying to carry and do the things that God should have been.
When I feel the weakest God is just as strong within me as when I feel the strongest. I just need to yeild to His strength that is always there.
Oh God, please help me, teach me, to walk in the humility that acknowledges my weakness and does not feel ashamed of it, but can truly revel in your strength being made perfect within me in my weakness.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Psalm 27:1-3 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. 3Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
Psalm 18:1-2 I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. 2The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
I truly am weak and would do well to recognize that on a daily/moment by moment basis God is my strength, rather than trying to do things in my own strength. God wants to be the strength of my life and carry the burdens and responsibilities, resulting in a walk of peace and rest.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
I grew up believing that being weak is a bad thing. But God has been showing me that it is not the case. My attempts to walk in my own strength have just gotten in the way. The reality is that even when I thought I was strong I was really weak and always have been. By trying to give the illusion of being strong I have just worn myself out trying to carry and do the things that God should have been.
When I feel the weakest God is just as strong within me as when I feel the strongest. I just need to yeild to His strength that is always there.
Oh God, please help me, teach me, to walk in the humility that acknowledges my weakness and does not feel ashamed of it, but can truly revel in your strength being made perfect within me in my weakness.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Psalm 27:1-3 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. 3Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
Psalm 18:1-2 I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. 2The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Increasing Government of Christ
Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
At Christmas we often hear Isaiah 9:6. So we tend to be quite familiar with this scripture and think about it in terms of Jesus' first coming. But the ultimate fulfilling of this scripture is in Jesus second coming and in the establishment of His kingdom in the earth. During that time there will be a continual increase of His government and peace spoken of in verse 7. We also see in this verse, that the throne of Jesus is established with judgment and with justice. I look forward to that day when the throne of God, whose foundation is righteous and judgement (justice), is established in the earth. (Psalm 97:2)How wonderful to have a government operating from foundational principles of righteousness and justice!
I also see an application of this personally for me in the present day, for the phrase "of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end." As I daily submit to the government of Christ and allow Him to more fully rule in my life in more and more areas then His government will continually increase within me. The result of that will also be an increasing level of peace in my life.
At Christmas we often hear Isaiah 9:6. So we tend to be quite familiar with this scripture and think about it in terms of Jesus' first coming. But the ultimate fulfilling of this scripture is in Jesus second coming and in the establishment of His kingdom in the earth. During that time there will be a continual increase of His government and peace spoken of in verse 7. We also see in this verse, that the throne of Jesus is established with judgment and with justice. I look forward to that day when the throne of God, whose foundation is righteous and judgement (justice), is established in the earth. (Psalm 97:2)How wonderful to have a government operating from foundational principles of righteousness and justice!
I also see an application of this personally for me in the present day, for the phrase "of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end." As I daily submit to the government of Christ and allow Him to more fully rule in my life in more and more areas then His government will continually increase within me. The result of that will also be an increasing level of peace in my life.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Prayer for Egypt
My prayer for Egypt is for God's kingdom to come and God's will to be done in this situation. I pray for the Christians of Egypt to arise and to cry out for God's mercy for Egypt and I join my prayers with theirs for their nation.
Earlier today I watched some prayer alerts from Rick Ridings a prayer leader in Israel. Here are the links to his alerts:
1/27/11 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5T68W61hro&feature=related
2/2/11 pt. 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKDtyvvjlKk&NR=1
2/2/11 pt 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XE4puozl3W8&feature=related
The enemy often tries to push the timing of legitimate events to try to bring them about ahead of God's timing. As we see in Dan. 7:25, the enemy seeks to change times and laws. But as we see in Dan. 2:21,it is God that has the ability to change times and it is God who raises up and takes down leaders. But the enemy would love to seek to upset the balance of things. I believe we need to pray for God's will to be done and not that of the enemy.
Daniel 7:25 And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
Daniel 2:20-22 20Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: 21And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: 22He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
Earlier today I watched some prayer alerts from Rick Ridings a prayer leader in Israel. Here are the links to his alerts:
1/27/11 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5T68W61hro&feature=related
2/2/11 pt. 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKDtyvvjlKk&NR=1
2/2/11 pt 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XE4puozl3W8&feature=related
The enemy often tries to push the timing of legitimate events to try to bring them about ahead of God's timing. As we see in Dan. 7:25, the enemy seeks to change times and laws. But as we see in Dan. 2:21,it is God that has the ability to change times and it is God who raises up and takes down leaders. But the enemy would love to seek to upset the balance of things. I believe we need to pray for God's will to be done and not that of the enemy.
Daniel 7:25 And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
Daniel 2:20-22 20Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: 21And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: 22He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Beauty of God in Creation (part 2)
Why are we so awed and inspired by the beauty in the creation? Is it because of something built inside of us by God that gets stirred by that beauty? I believe so. Is that thing inside of us that gets stirred the inborn part that desires to connect with God, thus the beauty that is in God that is expressed in His creation stirs that part inside of us? I think so.
God says in Romans 1:18-25 that He is revealed in creation and therefore man has no excuse for not knowing Him.
God says in Romans 1:18-25 that He is revealed in creation and therefore man has no excuse for not knowing Him.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Beauty of God in Creation
God is so amazing. Even in this fallen creation there is so much beauty all around us.
Back in mid-December, as I watched the snow come down, I was thinking about how beautiful the snow is. Each season has its own beauty. Winter can be such a dull drab time of year with the leaves off the trees and no flowers, etc. But the snow covers all of that.
God could have made the snow another color, like brown and then the winter would be just dull and drab. But God made the snow white and thus it creates a beautiful landscape. White snow on the tress and ground make them have a unique beauty.
God as creator is obviously reflected in His creation. God Himself must be incredibly beautiful!
Back in mid-December, as I watched the snow come down, I was thinking about how beautiful the snow is. Each season has its own beauty. Winter can be such a dull drab time of year with the leaves off the trees and no flowers, etc. But the snow covers all of that.
God could have made the snow another color, like brown and then the winter would be just dull and drab. But God made the snow white and thus it creates a beautiful landscape. White snow on the tress and ground make them have a unique beauty.
God as creator is obviously reflected in His creation. God Himself must be incredibly beautiful!
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