Saturday, September 29, 2012
Between The Father and The Son
I was reading from PS 109 & 110.
(NIV)Psalm 109:30-31
With my mouth I will greatly extol the Lord; in the great throng of worshipers I will praise him. [31] For he stands at the right hand of the needy, to save their lives from those who would condemn them.
(NIV)Psalm 110:1
The Lord says to my lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”
I remember Bob Sorge was talking about these verses, and how he was reading one day and the Lord put these two verses together, and when you do, it puts you right in between the Father and the Son, for in PS 109:31 it says that He stands at the right hand of the needy, and Psalm 110, The Father says to the Son, sit at my right hand, so between them is the needy person. Lord, I believe that the intimacy you invite us into, is this close. You desire us to dwell in your very presence, less then an arms breadth away. I am reminded of PS 91:
(NIV)Psalm 91:4
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
What a wonderful word for those days we are feeling distant from God, and also for those days we are feeling His loving presence nearby. We are precious to Him, and He will protect us, and continually invite us into that place of intimacy. Amen Lord!
Friday, September 28, 2012
Saved Completely
This morning I felt led to read from the letter to the Hebrews.
(NIV)Hebrews 7:24-26
...but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. [25] Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. [26] Such a high priest truly meets our need---one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
(NIV)Hebrews 8:1-2
Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, [2] and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being.
In reading these few verses, I am reminded of the true reality, that Jesus really is sitting on the Throne in Heaven, interceeding for me, interceeding for us all. He truly is able to save us completely.
The Greek word for completely in this verse is Panteles, pronounced: pan-tel-ace'
Definition 1. all complete, perfect 2. completely, perfectly, utterly.
The Greek word for save is Sozo, pronounced: sode'-zo
Definition
1. to save, keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger or destruction a. one (from injury or peril) 1. to save a suffering one (from perishing), i.e. one suffering from disease, to make well, heal, restore to health
2. to preserve one who is in danger of destruction, to save or rescue b. to save in the technical biblical sense.
So in summary, Jesus is able to save us completely, perfectly, utterly, and this means not just our souls, but our bodies from sickness and disease and affliction as well. Amen Lord!
(NIV)Hebrews 7:24-26
...but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. [25] Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. [26] Such a high priest truly meets our need---one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
(NIV)Hebrews 8:1-2
Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, [2] and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being.
In reading these few verses, I am reminded of the true reality, that Jesus really is sitting on the Throne in Heaven, interceeding for me, interceeding for us all. He truly is able to save us completely.
The Greek word for completely in this verse is Panteles, pronounced: pan-tel-ace'
Definition 1. all complete, perfect 2. completely, perfectly, utterly.
The Greek word for save is Sozo, pronounced: sode'-zo
Definition
1. to save, keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger or destruction a. one (from injury or peril) 1. to save a suffering one (from perishing), i.e. one suffering from disease, to make well, heal, restore to health
2. to preserve one who is in danger of destruction, to save or rescue b. to save in the technical biblical sense.
So in summary, Jesus is able to save us completely, perfectly, utterly, and this means not just our souls, but our bodies from sickness and disease and affliction as well. Amen Lord!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Compassion vs. Selfishness
This morning I have been meditating on my own selfishness - not a pretty picture. The Lord led me to these verses in Matthew.
(NIV)Matthew 14:13-18
When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. [15] As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.” [16] Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” [17] “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. [18] “Bring them here to me,” he said.
These verses follow the death of John the Baptist, Jesus' cousin. His response to this news was to want to be by himself, but the crowds followed Him. When He saw the crowd, rather than being perturbed, as I would be, He had compassion on them and healed their sick. We know from the following verses that this was a huge crowd, more than five thousand, so when it says He healed their sick that is a huge understatement. This was potentially hours of ministry, if not all day.
By the evening, His disciples were getting tired and hungry and wanted to send the crowds away, but Jesus didn't want to. In fact, He invited them to come to Him. He is such a great example of complete unselfishness. His concern was for the people. His heart was moved by their need for healing and their hunger.
Lord, help me to get beyond my own perspective of my needs and wants and see the people as You do! Help me to have compassion that overrides my own selfish view and actions.
(NIV)Matthew 14:13-18
When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. [15] As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.” [16] Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” [17] “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. [18] “Bring them here to me,” he said.
These verses follow the death of John the Baptist, Jesus' cousin. His response to this news was to want to be by himself, but the crowds followed Him. When He saw the crowd, rather than being perturbed, as I would be, He had compassion on them and healed their sick. We know from the following verses that this was a huge crowd, more than five thousand, so when it says He healed their sick that is a huge understatement. This was potentially hours of ministry, if not all day.
By the evening, His disciples were getting tired and hungry and wanted to send the crowds away, but Jesus didn't want to. In fact, He invited them to come to Him. He is such a great example of complete unselfishness. His concern was for the people. His heart was moved by their need for healing and their hunger.
Lord, help me to get beyond my own perspective of my needs and wants and see the people as You do! Help me to have compassion that overrides my own selfish view and actions.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Proper Perspective About the Enemy
As I was praying and reading through Mark 4, ( the papable of the sower and the seed) the Lord reminded me of a thought I had the other night, about how we could consider someone sold-out for the Lord, God's example of a suicide bomber, they are someone who is willing to die to themselves, but rather then kill others, they bring life to many others!
I was thinking about the fact that the enemy has no original thoughts, just copies what God creates and tries to distort and twist it. So basically anything that's bad out there, has a good opposite that God created first, and it is far more powerful than anything the enemy can bring together. When the enemy threatens and tries coersion, the Lord blesses and brings freedom and love. Where the enemy seems to be making headway, the Lord has plans for glory that will completely wipe away the gains of the enemy.
The captivity in Egypt is a great example, they went down as a small tribe that was starving during a severe famine, they multiplied even under extreme mistreatment, and when they came out they carried the wealth of Egypt with them, and saw the annihilation of Pharoh's army. That was certainly not what the enemy expected, he thought he had them trapped and was ready to destroy them all.
In the same way, when the enemy manages to kill a Christian, the enemy thinks he has won a great victory, but their martyred blood, is honored by God wth revival and multiplication of the church.
The enemy tries to claim the hydra-head as a symbol, cut off one and two replace it, but in God's economy, cut down one and 60-100 replace them. God doesn't mind unfair fights, as we see in the story of Gideon in Judges 7-8. Gideon is instructed to take on 120,000 with 300 men. We must learn to see with the Lords eyes, and have His perspective, as this would be impossible through purely human effort. The enemy had been harassing and stealing from the Israelites, and now gathered together to attack them, gathering three armies together to try and destroy Israel, but God wasn't the least bit worried about the fate of His people.
Our goal should be to learn to look to the Lord, rather than at the circumstances, for the Lord is seated on the Throne, and has ALL Authority and ALL Power. He will not be defeated, nor will His purposes fail. So even though the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion, trying to destroy, disrupt and strike fear in our hearts, let us take courage that God is the same today as He was in the day of Gideon. God is capable to rescue us, bring a mighty defeat on the enemy and release great blessing into our lives. Amen Lord!
I was thinking about the fact that the enemy has no original thoughts, just copies what God creates and tries to distort and twist it. So basically anything that's bad out there, has a good opposite that God created first, and it is far more powerful than anything the enemy can bring together. When the enemy threatens and tries coersion, the Lord blesses and brings freedom and love. Where the enemy seems to be making headway, the Lord has plans for glory that will completely wipe away the gains of the enemy.
The captivity in Egypt is a great example, they went down as a small tribe that was starving during a severe famine, they multiplied even under extreme mistreatment, and when they came out they carried the wealth of Egypt with them, and saw the annihilation of Pharoh's army. That was certainly not what the enemy expected, he thought he had them trapped and was ready to destroy them all.
In the same way, when the enemy manages to kill a Christian, the enemy thinks he has won a great victory, but their martyred blood, is honored by God wth revival and multiplication of the church.
The enemy tries to claim the hydra-head as a symbol, cut off one and two replace it, but in God's economy, cut down one and 60-100 replace them. God doesn't mind unfair fights, as we see in the story of Gideon in Judges 7-8. Gideon is instructed to take on 120,000 with 300 men. We must learn to see with the Lords eyes, and have His perspective, as this would be impossible through purely human effort. The enemy had been harassing and stealing from the Israelites, and now gathered together to attack them, gathering three armies together to try and destroy Israel, but God wasn't the least bit worried about the fate of His people.
Our goal should be to learn to look to the Lord, rather than at the circumstances, for the Lord is seated on the Throne, and has ALL Authority and ALL Power. He will not be defeated, nor will His purposes fail. So even though the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion, trying to destroy, disrupt and strike fear in our hearts, let us take courage that God is the same today as He was in the day of Gideon. God is capable to rescue us, bring a mighty defeat on the enemy and release great blessing into our lives. Amen Lord!
Monday, September 24, 2012
Obedience And Unbelief
I have been reading Smith Wigglesworth and one of the other things that Smith was talking about was how our obedience to the Lord is an expression of both our relationship with Jesus and faith in Him. This morning I am reading from 1 John 2: 3-6
(NIV)1 John 2:3-6
[3] We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. [4] Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. [5] But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: [6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.
These verses clearly indicate the connection between our relationship to the Lord and obedience to His Word. I am also reminded of another verse from John's Gospel:
(NIV)John 15:9-14
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. [10] If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. [11] I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. [12] My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. [13] Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. [14] You are my friends if you do what I command.
There is clearly a tie between our following the Lord's commands and maintaining our relationship with Him. This is not some sort of works mentlity, but rather an issue of belief. If we truly believe that Jesus is the Son of God, then we would do everything He tells us to do! Our particular fear of man, or uncomfortable feelings would not be enough to dissuade us from obeying.
Lord help me to walk in accordance with Your will.
(NIV)1 John 2:3-6
[3] We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. [4] Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. [5] But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: [6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.
These verses clearly indicate the connection between our relationship to the Lord and obedience to His Word. I am also reminded of another verse from John's Gospel:
(NIV)John 15:9-14
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. [10] If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. [11] I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. [12] My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. [13] Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. [14] You are my friends if you do what I command.
There is clearly a tie between our following the Lord's commands and maintaining our relationship with Him. This is not some sort of works mentlity, but rather an issue of belief. If we truly believe that Jesus is the Son of God, then we would do everything He tells us to do! Our particular fear of man, or uncomfortable feelings would not be enough to dissuade us from obeying.
Lord help me to walk in accordance with Your will.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Right Relationship With The Father
This morning I am reading from Galatians 4:
(NIV)Galatians 4:4-7
But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. [6] Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba , Father.” [7] So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
I was thinking in the same way, this is how the Lord wants us to live, free within our relationship with Him. If we look at the parable of the wayward son, the Lord, is really after relationship with us - Luke 15:11-32. However, He wants us to be in right relationship with Him, and with a right heart attitude. The first son wanted to take advantage of all the Father gave him for personal pleasure and gain. Interesting that the Father let him do that, in the same way that Father will let us make our own choices, even if they are bad. The second son, although he stayed and didn't abuse his relationship with the Father, clearly didn't know his Father's heart. He thought it was through his service and obedience that he would gain access to Father's extravagant love, clearly he had a works mentality. Again, the Father allowed him to operate in this mode, as it is part of free will.
What is clear from the Father's answers to both sons, when He talks to them, is his unconditional love, and desire for relationship. There is freedom in right relationship, but the Father knows the better way and is just longing to be able to embrace us, and show us.
One wonders how much of the time is the Father just wanting to embrace us, love us and lavish blessings upon us, and we are either focused only on selfish pursuit, or slaving away in some sort of work mentality? Lord, help us to understand that we really have been adopted by You, and You are our Father.
(NIV)Galatians 4:4-7
But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. [6] Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba , Father.” [7] So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
I was thinking in the same way, this is how the Lord wants us to live, free within our relationship with Him. If we look at the parable of the wayward son, the Lord, is really after relationship with us - Luke 15:11-32. However, He wants us to be in right relationship with Him, and with a right heart attitude. The first son wanted to take advantage of all the Father gave him for personal pleasure and gain. Interesting that the Father let him do that, in the same way that Father will let us make our own choices, even if they are bad. The second son, although he stayed and didn't abuse his relationship with the Father, clearly didn't know his Father's heart. He thought it was through his service and obedience that he would gain access to Father's extravagant love, clearly he had a works mentality. Again, the Father allowed him to operate in this mode, as it is part of free will.
What is clear from the Father's answers to both sons, when He talks to them, is his unconditional love, and desire for relationship. There is freedom in right relationship, but the Father knows the better way and is just longing to be able to embrace us, and show us.
One wonders how much of the time is the Father just wanting to embrace us, love us and lavish blessings upon us, and we are either focused only on selfish pursuit, or slaving away in some sort of work mentality? Lord, help us to understand that we really have been adopted by You, and You are our Father.
Friday, September 21, 2012
"In The Last Times..."
(NIV)Jude 1:17-25
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. [20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. [22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. [24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy--- [25] to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
What a good word for these times. Keeping ourselves in God's love, being filled with the Holy Spirit, extending mercy to those around us, living lives pursuing unity in the Body of Christ and personal holiness, and in all things depending on the Lord, who is able to keep you safe. One could just mine these verses for several hours, extracting the richness and letting the truth settle in our hearts. His Kingdom is about love, mercy, joy, and unity. Division, judgementalism, fear, and selfishness are not of the Lord. Let us trust ourselves to Him who is able to present us before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy.
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. [20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. [22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. [24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy--- [25] to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
What a good word for these times. Keeping ourselves in God's love, being filled with the Holy Spirit, extending mercy to those around us, living lives pursuing unity in the Body of Christ and personal holiness, and in all things depending on the Lord, who is able to keep you safe. One could just mine these verses for several hours, extracting the richness and letting the truth settle in our hearts. His Kingdom is about love, mercy, joy, and unity. Division, judgementalism, fear, and selfishness are not of the Lord. Let us trust ourselves to Him who is able to present us before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Humble Before God
This morning I was reading from James:
(NIV)James 4:6-10
But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” [7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
I also really like James 3:13: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." Our deeds should be done in humility, not with a selfish focus, but rather looking to our friends, family and those around us. We need to draw near to God, and humble ourselves before Him.
The Greek word translated humble is: Tapeinoo pronounced:tap-i-no'-o
Definition 1. to make low, bring low a. to level, reduce to a plain b. metaph. to bring into a humble condition, reduce to meaner circumstances 1. to assign a lower rank or place to 2. to abase 3. to be ranked below others who are honoured or rewarded 4. to humble or abase myself by humble living c. to lower, depress 1. of one's soul bring down one's pride 2. to have a modest opinion of one's self 3. to behave in an unassuming manner 4. devoid of all haughtiness
I was thinking that in reality this means that we walk in the first commandment, making God first in our lives, and the only one that we worship. For many of us, we have competing allegiences and desires. We place other things at the same or higher level than God in our lives, and in a certain way we are placing our will and thought above His. Here we are clearly encouraged to look at our lives and put ourselves in the proper place, recognizing God's sovereignty over our lives.
(NIV)James 4:6-10
But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” [7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
I also really like James 3:13: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." Our deeds should be done in humility, not with a selfish focus, but rather looking to our friends, family and those around us. We need to draw near to God, and humble ourselves before Him.
The Greek word translated humble is: Tapeinoo pronounced:tap-i-no'-o
Definition 1. to make low, bring low a. to level, reduce to a plain b. metaph. to bring into a humble condition, reduce to meaner circumstances 1. to assign a lower rank or place to 2. to abase 3. to be ranked below others who are honoured or rewarded 4. to humble or abase myself by humble living c. to lower, depress 1. of one's soul bring down one's pride 2. to have a modest opinion of one's self 3. to behave in an unassuming manner 4. devoid of all haughtiness
I was thinking that in reality this means that we walk in the first commandment, making God first in our lives, and the only one that we worship. For many of us, we have competing allegiences and desires. We place other things at the same or higher level than God in our lives, and in a certain way we are placing our will and thought above His. Here we are clearly encouraged to look at our lives and put ourselves in the proper place, recognizing God's sovereignty over our lives.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
A Right Attitude
(NIV)1 Peter 4:7-11 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. [8] Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. [9] Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. [10] Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. [11] If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
This is such a beautiful verse for setting our attitudes and focus. Really for all of us, our time here is limited, and we should live our lives with an understanding that we have been placed here in this time, at this location with purpose ( Acts 17:26 ) and as such we should seek God for that purpose. We should love each other deeply, being thankful for those whom the Lord has surrounded us. We should look not to ourselves but towards others as well, using the gifts we have for the benefit of all. In other words, laying down our selfish perspectives, and recognizing that part of our purpose is tied to those around us in our lives. Ultimately our goal should be that God is glorified in and through our lives. Amen.
This is such a beautiful verse for setting our attitudes and focus. Really for all of us, our time here is limited, and we should live our lives with an understanding that we have been placed here in this time, at this location with purpose ( Acts 17:26 ) and as such we should seek God for that purpose. We should love each other deeply, being thankful for those whom the Lord has surrounded us. We should look not to ourselves but towards others as well, using the gifts we have for the benefit of all. In other words, laying down our selfish perspectives, and recognizing that part of our purpose is tied to those around us in our lives. Ultimately our goal should be that God is glorified in and through our lives. Amen.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Never Underestimate God...
Last night I was reading from Acts 17, about Paul's visit to Thessalonica:
(NIV)Acts 17:1-10
When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. [2] As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, [3] explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah,” he said. [4] Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women.
[5] But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason’s house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. [6] But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, [7] and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.” [8] When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. [9] Then they made Jason and the others post bond and let them go. [10] As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue.
This morning I was reading Paul's letter to that Church: (NIV)1 Thessalonians 2:1-2
You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. [2] We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.
I think this is amazing how just in that short period of time a church was birthed. I also find it interesting that after reading the story in Acts, I found myself thinking that the visit to Thessaloniaca had been a failure, but that He must have visited again with more success. But after reading this section from Paul's letter to them that appears to not be the case. So Paul visited for a little over three weeks, and a church was birthed. It is amazing what the Lord can accomplish through us, in even this short of a time. Also, I think its important to realize that God considers things differently than we do, where we might have seen this visit as a failure, God saw it as a great success, and was able to do much in the city. Don't underestimate the ability of God to work in any situation.
(NIV)Acts 17:1-10
When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. [2] As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, [3] explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah,” he said. [4] Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women.
[5] But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason’s house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. [6] But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, [7] and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.” [8] When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. [9] Then they made Jason and the others post bond and let them go. [10] As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue.
This morning I was reading Paul's letter to that Church: (NIV)1 Thessalonians 2:1-2
You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. [2] We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.
I think this is amazing how just in that short period of time a church was birthed. I also find it interesting that after reading the story in Acts, I found myself thinking that the visit to Thessaloniaca had been a failure, but that He must have visited again with more success. But after reading this section from Paul's letter to them that appears to not be the case. So Paul visited for a little over three weeks, and a church was birthed. It is amazing what the Lord can accomplish through us, in even this short of a time. Also, I think its important to realize that God considers things differently than we do, where we might have seen this visit as a failure, God saw it as a great success, and was able to do much in the city. Don't underestimate the ability of God to work in any situation.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Its Late, You Feed Them...
I was just reading from Mark 6, and the story of the feeding of the 5000 caught my eye.
(NIV)Mark 6:6-7, 12-13, 30-44
....Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village. [7] Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
[12] They went out and preached that people should repent. [13] They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
[30] The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. [31] Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” [32] So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. [33] But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. [34] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. [35] By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. [36] Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” [37] But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages ! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?” [38] “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five---and two fish.” [39] Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. [40] So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. [41] Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. [42] They all ate and were satisfied, [43] and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. [44] The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.
A few things stood out to me:
1. This miracle follows closely on the heals of the twelve being sent out to preach the good news, and this ministry was definitely successful for many people were coming after them.
2. Jesus ' heart was stirred when he saw the people because they were like sheep without a shepherd. This phrase always grabs my attention, as it is supposed to convey something about the state of the people. Shepherds guide sheep to good food and water, keep them moving so they don't eat everything in one location, and provide protection from animals and circumstances that are dangerous, and also keep the herd together. These people were clearly lacking that type of input in their lives.
3. Before Jesus gives them physical food, He serves up a meal of spiritual food, by teaching them many things. Our spirits can be just as hungry as our bodies.
4. The disciples knew that it was late and asked Jesus to send the people away, but His response was, "You give them something to eat!" Something about this phrase - its late has grabbed my heart. I guess its that we are presently in the same situation, its getting late and there are crowds of people who are hungry.
5. The Lord, wasn't dismayed by te crowd, He knew that the Father wanted to feed the people, so He took what little the disciples had and fed them all. I think this is critical for the church to understand, in this late time. Even though they didn't have enough to feed themselves, they gave what they had into Jesus' hands and it was multiplied enough to feed a vast crowd. This was completely illogical, yet in the Kingdom it is right. We need to not be limited by our logic, but rather look to the Father and Son and see what they desire to do. Our part is to give that little that we have, and trust that the Lord really is the Good Shepherd and will provide for His flock.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Being Light to the Lost - Eating With Sinners
The last few days I have been reading the following parallel passages - Matt 9:1-12 and Mark 2:1-17, having to do with Jesus' visit back to his home in Capernaum. This morning my attention went to the story of the calling of Matthew (Levi). In all three Synoptic Gospels the flow is exactly the same for this happening, here is how its recounted in Mark:
(NIV)Mark 2:14-17
As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him. [15] While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. [16] When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” [17] On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
What caught my eye was what happened immediately following Jesus invitation to Levi to follow Him, namely that Jesus was invited to a banquet at Levi's house and Levi invited all his unsaved friends, and Jesus was absolutely OK with this. In every account it was exactly the same - Jesus invited Levi to follow Him, and the invitation to dinner at Levi's immediately followed.
I was thinking that if we, in the church, needed any reason to focus our outreaches on the lost, this passage gives a great example of why we should. The lost, when they get saved become an instant doorway to a whole group of equally lost people. The other day I was meditating on the woman at the well, and many in her town got saved after she did - which is awesome.
One interesting thought about this passage, Jesus went to Levi's house, not the other way around. I wonder if the church's focus on bringing people into the church - getting them in the building - is backwards? What if the church went to where the newly saved person lives or hangs out, and brought Jesus there too? We have that mindset about foreign lands, why not have that mindset here at home. Call it micro-missions, whatever. The chances of ministering to the lost is much higher out where they live, than it is in our church buildings. Programs are great, but are only going to reach a small percentage of the population. Lord give us the courage to break out of our western religious mindests and see that the world needs the loving, merciful, accepting, life giving, Body of Christ in their midst, not in our church buildings.
Friday, September 7, 2012
The God Who Acts on Our Behalf
This morning I have been hanging out in the book of Isaiah and reading for a couple of different chapters. The theme has been around God's uniqueness.
(NIV)Isaiah 44:6-8
“This is what the Lord says---Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God. [7] Who then is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before me what has happened since I established my ancient people, and what is yet to come---yes, let them foretell what will come. [8] Do not tremble, do not be afraid. Did I not proclaim this and foretell it long ago? You are my witnesses. Is there any God besides me? No, there is no other Rock; I know not one.”
(NIV)Isaiah 64:3-4
For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you. [4] Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.
Yes, Lord, this no other God like You. You do act on ur behalf, if we but wait and rest and trust You will move. What a glorious experience, to have You intervene for us. Lord, we know that in the same way that You moved to provide for Your people, and the way that You protected them is still available to us today. You are not a God who is far off, rather You are right here. Holy Spirit You dwell within me, and guide me and give me life. Help me to wait and trust in You, here on the Rock, that is Your word.
(NIV)Isaiah 44:6-8
“This is what the Lord says---Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God. [7] Who then is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before me what has happened since I established my ancient people, and what is yet to come---yes, let them foretell what will come. [8] Do not tremble, do not be afraid. Did I not proclaim this and foretell it long ago? You are my witnesses. Is there any God besides me? No, there is no other Rock; I know not one.”
(NIV)Isaiah 64:3-4
For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you. [4] Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.
Yes, Lord, this no other God like You. You do act on ur behalf, if we but wait and rest and trust You will move. What a glorious experience, to have You intervene for us. Lord, we know that in the same way that You moved to provide for Your people, and the way that You protected them is still available to us today. You are not a God who is far off, rather You are right here. Holy Spirit You dwell within me, and guide me and give me life. Help me to wait and trust in You, here on the Rock, that is Your word.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
How We Deal With Sinful People
I was just reading the story of the woman at the well - John 4. I was thinking about the Lord confronted her sin, by asking her to call her husband, but we don't have a record of Him chastizing her. It was if it was enough for her to know that He knew... He did this after having engaged her for quite some time, drawing her deeper into conversation. He, after revealing that He knew about her lifestyle, then engages her in conversation that points her to who He is, and that revelation is what changed her life. He doesn't reject her after seeing and confirming she is a sinner, but rather extends to her salvation.
I think there is a lesson to be learned in this exchange, namely that we don't need to confront people with their sins right out of the chute, that building and establishing relationship is critical to their being able to move past their awareness of their sin, into a true revelation of who God is, and the salvation He offers them. How quick we often are to see someone's sin and be all ready to confront them, when the Lord shows us a better way.
Additionally, the woman becomes a raging evangelist, and gets most of her town saved by calling them out to meet Jesus. One wonders if the Body of Chirst is missing some key people because we couldn't look past the sin they were presently steeped in? We really need the eyes of the Lord, to see past sin and see the hearts of those we come in contact with throughout our days.
Amen Lord, help me to see as You see.
I think there is a lesson to be learned in this exchange, namely that we don't need to confront people with their sins right out of the chute, that building and establishing relationship is critical to their being able to move past their awareness of their sin, into a true revelation of who God is, and the salvation He offers them. How quick we often are to see someone's sin and be all ready to confront them, when the Lord shows us a better way.
Additionally, the woman becomes a raging evangelist, and gets most of her town saved by calling them out to meet Jesus. One wonders if the Body of Chirst is missing some key people because we couldn't look past the sin they were presently steeped in? We really need the eyes of the Lord, to see past sin and see the hearts of those we come in contact with throughout our days.
Amen Lord, help me to see as You see.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Our Stronghold in Times of Trouble
NIV)Psalm 37:34, 37, 39-40
Hope in the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it. [37] Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. [39] The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. [40] The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.
I love Psalm 37, especially verse 39 - "The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble." The Hebrew word translated here as stronghold, and in other translations - strength is Ma`owz - pronunciation: maw-oze'
Definition 1. place or means of safety, protection, refuge, stronghold
a. place of safety, fastness, harbour, stronghold
b. refuge (of God) (fig.)
c. human protection (fig.)
A stronghold or place of fastness ultimately refers to a place you can't be driven out of by the enemy. It allows you to stand your ground and offers protection during times of warfare. This verse says that God is this for us. When trouble comes we are supposed to retreat into Him and allow Him to provide us shelter, and protection.
Graham Cooke speaks of a place of rest in the Lord that just tires the enemy out. I can imagine running to the Lord, allowing Him to enfold me in His arms, and then watching as the attacks of the enemy just bounce off of Him. In Him, the enemy can't reach me and the enemies blows can't affect Him, so in time the enemy just tires out and goes away. This is what this verse is speaking about... God saving us and protecting us from trouble, whatever form it might come in.
To be clear, this is not trouble that I caused, or that I went out and got into. Rather this is a time of trouble, a particular occurance, or instance, externally initiated.
Finally, this is a place that allows us to hold our ground. I am reminded of the verse in Ephesians 6:13:
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."
Its God's armor, its His protection, that allows us to stand where we are. No more two steps forward and one back, but rather the grace and strength to stand. Amen, help me Lord to run to You, rather than running around like a headless chicken.
Hope in the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it. [37] Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. [39] The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. [40] The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.
I love Psalm 37, especially verse 39 - "The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble." The Hebrew word translated here as stronghold, and in other translations - strength is Ma`owz - pronunciation: maw-oze'
Definition 1. place or means of safety, protection, refuge, stronghold
a. place of safety, fastness, harbour, stronghold
b. refuge (of God) (fig.)
c. human protection (fig.)
A stronghold or place of fastness ultimately refers to a place you can't be driven out of by the enemy. It allows you to stand your ground and offers protection during times of warfare. This verse says that God is this for us. When trouble comes we are supposed to retreat into Him and allow Him to provide us shelter, and protection.
Graham Cooke speaks of a place of rest in the Lord that just tires the enemy out. I can imagine running to the Lord, allowing Him to enfold me in His arms, and then watching as the attacks of the enemy just bounce off of Him. In Him, the enemy can't reach me and the enemies blows can't affect Him, so in time the enemy just tires out and goes away. This is what this verse is speaking about... God saving us and protecting us from trouble, whatever form it might come in.
To be clear, this is not trouble that I caused, or that I went out and got into. Rather this is a time of trouble, a particular occurance, or instance, externally initiated.
Finally, this is a place that allows us to hold our ground. I am reminded of the verse in Ephesians 6:13:
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."
Its God's armor, its His protection, that allows us to stand where we are. No more two steps forward and one back, but rather the grace and strength to stand. Amen, help me Lord to run to You, rather than running around like a headless chicken.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Hope for Today
NIV)Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
As I was praying this morning, I was drawn to this passage, speaking of the hope. I very much like the title for God in that first line - the God of Hope. So often we look for hope in other places, from other sources, but God is the God of Hope. All hope that is real comes from Him. He is our Provider, our Protector, our King and Lord, our Father, our Master and our Friend. Each of those titles bring with them care and concern for us.
As we learn to put our trust in Him, as our true source of hope, He will fill us with joy and peace. There is a transaction that is made there - we give Him our anxiety, our difficult situations, and worries and He gives us joy and peace. Ultimately His desire is that our hope literally overflows us, and spills all over others.
I am reminded of one of my favorite verses from the Gospel of Matthew.
(NIV)Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
If you need hope today, turn to the God of Hope and let Him trade your worries and problems for joy and peace, hope overflowing and rest!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
As I was praying this morning, I was drawn to this passage, speaking of the hope. I very much like the title for God in that first line - the God of Hope. So often we look for hope in other places, from other sources, but God is the God of Hope. All hope that is real comes from Him. He is our Provider, our Protector, our King and Lord, our Father, our Master and our Friend. Each of those titles bring with them care and concern for us.
As we learn to put our trust in Him, as our true source of hope, He will fill us with joy and peace. There is a transaction that is made there - we give Him our anxiety, our difficult situations, and worries and He gives us joy and peace. Ultimately His desire is that our hope literally overflows us, and spills all over others.
I am reminded of one of my favorite verses from the Gospel of Matthew.
(NIV)Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
If you need hope today, turn to the God of Hope and let Him trade your worries and problems for joy and peace, hope overflowing and rest!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Our True Treasure
This morning when I woke up and even last night I was again thinking about the treasure that is our relationship with the Lord, and with each other.
Recently, I was reading a book by Graham Cooke and he said, "God inhabits our relationships", which was really helpful. I always knew that based on several scriptures like (NIV)Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” but this just presented it in such a concise way. God does inhabit our relationships, in other words He is present when we are in relationship with each other, as fellow believers, for we are gathered in His name! There should be an awareness in our lives, and in our churches, of the importance of our relationships with each other.
In several places Jesus talks about what the Kingdom of God is like, and one of the Statements He makes is that the Kingdom of God is like a treasure - (NIV)Matthew 13:44. “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field." In Luke 17:21 Jesus says, "... nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.”
Jesus says in (NIV)John 17:22-23 "I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one--- [23] I in them and you in me---so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." And again in (NIV)John 14:1 "... the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." Paul writes in (NIV)2 Corinthians 4:7 "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." His reference to jars of clay means our physical bodies, and the all-surpassing power is from the Holy Spirit within him.
So in summary, we have in our relationships with each in the church, the Lord present. We have within us the Holy Spirit and Jesus Himself, extending to us Eternal Life and all-surpassing power and a deeply intimate relationship - a treasure beyond compare. It is this treasure, these relationships that we should invest in and share with those around us.
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