April 1, 2008
John 6:63 "It is the spirit that quickeneth: the flesh profiteth nothing:"
Jesus has just spoken words the hearers describe as "hard sayings." They were not sure how to respond, and some made the decision to just walk away.
They were struggling with his words. Jesus goes on to say in this verse that the "words he speaks are life." He was not trying to divide them or destroy them. Neither was he teaching heresy or doctrine that was confusing. But they were blinded to the truth. Jesus was trying to convince them that only the Spirit can quicken and bring life out of death. Their religion was dead. Their works were dead. Their faith was dead. All of their fleshly efforts were of no spiritual value. He was giving them the answer. They would have to partake by faith of the sacrifice he was about to make or they could not inherit the kingdom.
Man has struggled for centuries over the fact that their flesh was of no spiritual value. The works that we do cannot provide for us, saving faith. We automatically think that we have to "do" something to impress or satisfy God. But our salvation is not in "do" but it is in "done." Christ did it all. His sacrifice is our hope. If we by faith look to him, then it is enough. But that does not satisfy us. We just think there has to be more to it.
And then, when Christ goes further and reveals truths like he did to these men, our minds cannot handle it and we turn away. God help us to receive Christ with all his simplicity and all his vast wisdom. Faith in its beginning is so simple,yet in its development is so vast. His thoughts are far above ours. But all we have to do is trust Him. Our flesh profits nothing, but the spirit quickens. Let the Spirit give you life. Quit trying on your own. Don't walk away. Take him as he is and believe. You will not regret it.
April 2, 2008
John 7:38 "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."
The Word of God uses figures of speech called "types." These are word symbols or types that are used to explain certain truths. Jesus used them often in his teachings. One that is used is the symbol or type of "water" that can stand for different things. Water in some places is a type of the Word of God. Paul talked about the "washing of water by the Word." But water is also a type of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said that for the one who believes, out of his belly shall flow rivers. Imagine that! We that are saved, possess the Holy Spirit. He comes to live within us at the moment of salvation. Now he has become the out-flowing of God within our lives. Out of our bellies comes living water. This is a never ending resource of new life and hope.
The child of God has the ability to go into a lost world where men are dying spiritually of "thirst" and not just give them a taste or a drink, but we have a never ending supply of life giving water! Isaiah says "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come."
Now the secret is "believe." We have to have faith and that faith comes from God. Living, saving faith is that which comes as a result of hearing the Word of God. So in essence, both of these types fit. The Water and the Word in action, provide life giving, eternal life.
As the believer allows the Holy Spirit to "flow out of him" through the "Word of God", the hearer who is thirsty, can drink and be satisfied. People everywhere can drink this water. You know many around you that are in need of this water. Don't just hoard the water up like a cistern that catches the rain that falls. But instead, let the "river" flow. Don't dam it up with debris, garbage, worldliness, and sin. Keep the way clear, let nothing between.
Do you have this river within you? Is it flowing? Are others drinking of this water? Is it contaminated? Let the river flow and let the thirsty drink. That is God's way.
April 3, 2008
John 8:7 "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."
A woman had just been caught in the very act of adultery. Her accusers had brought her to Jesus and began to ask him some questions, trying to tempt him. They brought us Moses' law and its requirements and tried their very best to catch Jesus in some kind of conflict of truth.
As the crowd watched to see what Jesus would do and say, he stooped to the ground and wrote something in the dirt. No one knows what he wrote. There has been much speculation. Some suggest he wrote the ten commandments, the law or maybe a list of sins committed by those present. Maybe he was writing names and places. No one but God, knows what he wrote. But one thing for sure, what he wrote caused the crowd to disperse.
When he did speak, he spoke these powerful words: "he that is without sin, cast the first stone." Now all of us know that none of us are without sin. If being free of sin is the basis for casting stones, then none of us can judge.
We are so quick to judge those around us that make mistakes or fall into sin. We quickly past sentence on those who have ruined their lives and testimony, and do not allow mercy to be a part of our consideration. Yet it would be good for us to remember every time we judge others, but for the grace of God, that could be you or me.
We should pray that God would keep us humble, tender, and forgiving, and ready to extend mercy. If we are all honest, none of us are in any position to throw stones.
April 4, 2008
John 8:12 "I am the light of the world:"
There are several times in the Gospels where Jesus uses "I am" to describe his characteristics. "I am the way, the truth, the life, the resurrection, etc." Here, after the woman taken in adultery had been forgiven, he describes himself as the "light."
Man is born in darkness. This world is drowning in darkness. Satan is the god of darkness. Man, because he is lost, blind, and without hope, loves darkness because his deeds are evil. Darkness hides its ugliness so its participants cannot really see what lies ahead. They walk in darkness, stumbling along the way, never seeing the danger that lies ahead.
Until Jesus came to earth, this world remained in darkness. When Jesus invaded the darkness of this world, he forever unseated Satan from his own throne and caused chaos in his kingdom. Now Satan tries to hold on to a fallen kingdom and is desperately holding on to his followers.
What Satan fears is the light of God being shined in his darkness. He fears a believer with his light shining brightly. He fears a Christian with a fiery testimony. He fears an aggressive soul-winning program. He fears anyone who walks in light and lets it shine everywhere he goes, for it drives away the darkness.
Now that Jesus has ascended back to heaven, his light is to shine through us. We are now the "lights" of Christ. We are to reflect him in this world of darkness. And by the way, a little light goes a long way in the dark. Our little light may guide some weary stranger to the place of safety. Our little light may be the salvation for some teenager, some mom or dad looking for help from their darkness.
Don't curse the darkness. Instead, just turn on the light. We cannot change Satan's kingdom, but we can change people by giving them the light. Just shine and let them see Jesus. He will do the rest. I am the Light, Jesus said, and the rest of the verse says "he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." Let your lights shine today!
April 5, 2008
John 8:34 "Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin."
There are two words in this verse I want to focus on. The first is the word "committeth" and the second is "servant." First is the word "committeth." This word implies a continual practice of sin or a habit. It is the continual repetition of sin day after day until it becomes a way of life.
All of us "commit" sin on a daily schedule. We do things that are wrong and we make mistakes. We are not perfect and because we are sinners, we will sin. But we do not have to commit the same things over and over again. We can say no to sin. We can resist sin and do right. But for the one who falls into the snare of some sin of the flesh, if he is not careful, it will become a daily practice. That is the word "committeth."
Then the second part is "servant." Herein is the danger of "committing" the same sin daily. If we yield to that sin often enough, it will begin to "rule" over us and make us its servant. Paul taught in Romans that if we yield to sin, we become its servant. How many times have you had to battle with your flesh over something it could not seem to let go of? You did not realize how dependent you had become to this sin. Think of how it must look to God to see us bowing down to some little sin that has become our king. The word servant means "bond-slave." How many people do you know that are bond-slaves to sin?
If you allow sin to rule over you, it will destroy you. You are no match for Satan or sin. You must depend upon the power of God and His Word. Jesus overcame Satan in the wilderness by the Word of God. Three times He said "it is written." We too have to depend upon the Word of God. It can break the power sin and liberate us.
Jesus said in John 8:32, "ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." The Word of God is the Truth, and it alone has the power to liberate us from sin's bondage. Thank God for the Word of God!
April 6, 2008
John 8:47 "He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."
There are many verses in the Bible that list the evidence of salvation. We know we are saved if we have love for the brethren. We know we are saved if we have the Spirit of God within us. We know we are saved if keep his commandments. These are just a few verses that tell us how a man knows he is saved.
Jesus says in this verse that if a man is of God, he "heareth" God's words. The word "heareth" does not mean that we have the physical ability to hear the word. Instead this has to do with the spiritual hearing which implies with it "obedience."
We are told not to be just "hearers" but doers. This word implies both. A person who is saved not only listens to God, but obeys God.
Seven times in Revelation chapters two and three, the Bible says, "he that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches." The emphasis is on the spiritualhearing.
Spiritual hearing is a "putting in to practice" what we hear. It is putting feet and action to our ears. It is taking God's Word and making it a part of our lives. Jesus said that a true child of God will obey God's word. We are not just good listeners. We are to be good doers.
A lost man is not only blind, but according to this verse, he is spiritual unable to hear. Paul put it like this: "hearing, ye hear not, seeing ye see not." A man without Christ does not possess the ability to receive the message of God's Word. He can't see or hear. He is void of spiritual understanding and cannot obey God. Once a man is saved, his eyes are opened, and his ears are unstopped. He now is able to hear God. Jesus said "My sheep hear my voice." He now can hear the voice of God speaking to his heart. He cannot afford to let any thing hinder his ability to hear. He must keep his ears cleaned out and stay close enough to the Master that he does not miss what he has to say. Can you clearly hear his voice? Are you obeying what he says? If you are, that is a sign that you are truly born again.
April 7, 2008
John 9:3 "Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents, but that the works of God should be made manifest in him."
Jesus had just passed by a blind man. The disciples had asked who was responsible for his blindness. Could it be that he had sinned? Or, did his parents sin? Jesus was quick to put the issue to rest by assuring them that God had ordained this event and this day so that the works of God could be manifest.
The question over disease and sickness and what causes it has always been an issue. Human nature wants to have someone or something to blame. Surely such evil and sickness can only be the result of sin. But the fact is, not all sickness is a result of someone's sin or God's judgment upon them. Some sickness, like it or not, happens because it is God's plan. Faith healers and TV Evangelists deny this very fact. Their "doctrines" promote health and wealth and God's desire for everyone to prosper. But the fact is, there will always be blind men sitting by the wayside, and there will always be men like Job who suffer. And even in some cases, it doesn't make sense!
But there are some things we can state for sure. We know that God is in charge. We know that nothing happens without God allowing it. We also know that "all things work together for good, to them who are called according to his purpose." Not everything is good, but it all works together for good. Something else we know, what ever we face, his grace will be sufficient for us. We may not get healing this side of heaven. We may not see the miracles that some others experience. But we do know that in the end, we will get a new body fashioned like his glorious body!
Until that day, we will wrestle with questions that we can never answer. Why do little children suffer? Why do good people suffer? Why do our prayers seemingly go unanswered? All of these are part of God's "secret things" that only he can reveal to us in his time. But through it all, the works of God are being manifest. Either his power to heal is demonstrated, or his grace is imparted to sustain us through life's most difficult challenges. Either way, we come out a winner. Thank God He is in charge and He never makes a mistake!
April 8, 2008
John 9:31 "Now we know that God heareth not sinners:"
It is a difficult truth for some to swallow, but nonetheless it is true that God does not hear sinners when they "pray." Of course you are already rising up in your spirit and rejecting that statement. And of course if a sinner is praying for salvation, we all agree that God hears that prayer. But that is not what I am referring to .
He goes on to say "but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth." Now we all agree with that statement. Anyone who is a worshipper of God, in spirit and in truth, and does his will, God hears their prayer. But what about the first group? Does God hears a sinner's prayer except for repentance? The answer is no.
The first truth that must be established is the relationship between God and man. God is not "father of all." The only way a man has a "father-son" relationship with God is through the new birth. Just to be born and alive, does not make you "God's child." The Fatherhood of God taught by many humanists does not exist. For a person to have a relationship with God, he must be saved. Therefore, those who are not saved, do not have a relationship with the Father.
Since that is true, then let's move on to the next point. Prayer is meant to be between God the Father and those who are his children. Access to the Father is because of relationship. If you are not his child, you do not have access to the Father, for he is not your Father. And God said to those who were lost, that "ye are of your father the devil." So if you are not in God's family, you are in the devil's family. Therefore God will not hear the prayer of someone else's child. But you can change relationships. You can be "born again" into the family of God and thereby gain access to the Father.
How is your relationship with God? Have you been born into the family of God? Do you have access into his throne room? If not, get saved today. Today is the day of salvation!
April 9, 2008
John 10:1 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber."
In this modern world of multi-culturalism, we are daily fed a diet of some form of "all roads lead to heaven." Men who run for office boast of their "faith" and those already in office preach tolerance and acceptance of all others, no matter their faith. Even those who have sought our harm are given attention and defended for their faith. Everyone speaks of a "god" who they believe in, and they sincerely believe that all that matters is that you believe in something. If "god" is a tree, that is okay, just as long as you believe it.
But to say that there is only one way that is right and only one true God and one true faith is met with great resistance. Those that believe in the oneness of God and true faith are narrow- minded bigots and must be rejected. No one wants to admit that their "faith" is a failure and the end of their "faith" is eternal damnation. But that is the truth.
Jesus makes it very clear that he is the only way to heaven. He has provided a "doorway" to heaven through faith in the finished work of Calvary. He has made it simple and clear. If a child comes to him, it is simple enough that he can believe and be saved. But as simple and clear as it is, many do not believe. They want to go another way or do something different or believe in another "gospel." But Jesus said if "any climb up another way, the same is a thief and a robber." Imagine people trying to "rob" their way into heaven. That is exactly what people without Christ are trying to do.
You cannot come to Christ but by the cross. He made the way clear and anyone can come. Don't struggle or resist. Don't try to do it your own way. Don't reject the truth for a lie. Just come to and through the cross. What can wash away my sins? the song says, Nothing but the blood of Jesus! And that my friend is the truth!
April 10, 2008
John 10:5 "And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers."
There is much discussion about the voice of God, who can hear it and what it sounds like. Much of this is and will remain a mystery to us. Yet there are a few things that we know and are clear. We may not be able to describe the voice of God to others, nor can we explain how it works, but we can testify that we know when He speaks.
For the child of God, His voice is unmistakable. We know it is his voice. His is like no other. When He speaks, our hearts easily identify his voice. His voice is also very calming. His is not a harsh, arrogant type voice. Instead, His is a "still, small voice." He is a big God with a small voice. It is small enough to pierce the most difficult situations. It can enter through the smallest crack in a broken heart. It can be heard by the smallest of men who appear to be rejects and outcasts. This voice, though small in its approach, is immeasurable in its authority and power. This small voice can calm the raging sea, silence the uncontrollable winds, cause the demons to flee, cause life to enter a dead woman, astonish the doctors and lawyers, enrage the religious Pharisees, grant forgiveness to a dying thief, speak peace to a troubled soul, and at the same time, carry on a daily conversation with his children, giving them instructions, comfort, directions, and encouragement. There is power in his voice. There is peace in his voice. There is promise and hope in his voice. There is no way his voice can be mistaken.
John makes it very clear that a child of God will not be confused and follow "another" voice. Satan is a master deceiver and is an "angel of light." He wants to lead us astray. But if we stay in fellowship with God on a daily basis, we will not be tricked into following "someone" else. We should keep our ears in tune to God and His Word so this deception remains impossible. The price of following a "stranger" is too high and too dangerous.
Do you easily recognize His voice? Do you have good spiritual ears? Or, has your spiritual hearing grown weak? Do you have difficulty hearing his voice? If so, get it fixed quickly! Without the ability to hear from God, you cannot be certain you are walking in His perfect will and plan for your life. You also put yourself in danger if you cannot clearly hear his warnings.
April 11, 2008
John 10:10 "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
Satan is called by many names and adjectives. Here he is called the thief. He comes to steal, kill, and destroy. He steals man's hopes and dreams. He uses sin to rob man of everything that he would hope to gain and accomplish. He is a murderer and therefore he is a killer. He desires to take the life of every man, woman, boy and girl. He literally threatens your life. His desire for you is death. He also is a destroyer. He does not create or build, but destroys. He destroys homes, lives, churches, friendships, relationships, and a life time of work. Satan will not stop until he has destroyed everything he can. He wants to rob sheep from the fold, and souls from the Savior.
On the other side, Christ comes to give life. He is the life giver. He is Creator and therefore is in the business of bringing life to that which is dead, hope to that which is hopeless, and direction to that which is lost. Christ not only wants to give life to every man, but he wants it to be an "abundant" life. Man is born "dead" in trespasses and sins. Because he is dead, he must be quickened or raised from the deadness of that sin. Christ, being the resurrection, has the power to give life and put breath back into the old "dead man."
When a man is saved, he is made alive. He for the first time, knows what it is to live. Christ then begins to introduce that new man to a new life. This is not just living, but it is the "abundant" life. This is a life of joy, hope, peace, contentment, forgiveness, love, and total fulfillment and satisfaction. It does not necessarily means a life of "material" abundance, but it is riches beyond human understanding. Paul said we "have this treasure in earthen vessels." What a treasure, this abundant life. Nothing else can give you what Christ does. It is so wonderful to be "really alive" in Christ! Alive in my soul. Alive in my heart. Alive with the promise of eternal life! All because of the life giver!
Satan lied to us all and convinced us that he alone could satisfy us. But his way is the way of death. Christ has given us life and that life is an abundant one! Thanks be unto God for this new life in Christ!
April 12, 2008
John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
Nothing describes the relationship between Christ and his Church more than that of a shepherd and his sheep. We are described as sheep all throughout the Bible. Sheep are basically dumb creatures. They must be led everywhere. Without a shepherd, they are helpless, defenseless, and would probably not survive. The Shepherd knows the nature of sheep and does everything necessary to provide for his sheep.
The greatest enemy of the sheep is the predator: the wolf. The shepherd understands that his sheep are most always vulnerable and in danger. He watches his sheep and watches for any danger and if necessary is willing to give his life for his sheep. That is the best way to describe our Savior. Jesus loves us and cares for us. He leads us into pastures, green. He leads us beside the still waters. He leads us through the difficult paths that are uncertain for us, but he knows the way. He provides us with food, clothing, shelter, love, safety and everything necessary.
This same Shepherd, loved us enough to die in our place, thereby providing us with eternal life. This Shepherd never takes his eyes off of us. He sees us when we wander astray. He seeks us out and brings us back to safety. When we are wounded, he provides healing. When we are frightened, he comforts us with his staff and rod. When we find ourselves in a strange place, we hear his voice and we follow him back to his side.
This Shepherd loves us and he is a "good shepherd." No one ever cared for me like Jesus, the song says. We can rest assured that we sheep are safe in the care of the good shepherd. The enemy may be lurking nearby, but the good shepherd is watching, waiting, always ready to come to our
defense.
April 13, 2008
John 10:28 "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
The greatest gift ever given to man is the gift of eternal life. To be able to live each day, a life of peace and joy, knowing that we shall live forever with the one who made it all possible, our Savior Jesus Christ.
This gift of life is called "eternal" life. It begins at the moment of salvation. When we receive Jesus Christ, we automatically become partakers of eternal life. This life is in Christ. This life is abundant. This life is full of peace and hope. And this life can never be taken away. This is the promise of God.
Our souls are eternal and can never die. Our bodies are temporal and will one day face death. In the resurrection, the body will be raised and transformed into an eternal body that will either spend eternity in heaven or in hell. But for those that die in the body without Christ, they will experience the second death in the lake of fire. This is an "eternal" death where the soul suffers the torments of hell, but yet is never consumed or destroyed from existence. It is eternal death.
Imagine, just as we have eternal life, the lost have eternal death. That is why we should be busy telling others about this salvation to keep them from going to that awful place.
We have the security of the promise of eternal life in God. As long as God exists, we shall never die. So rejoice dear child of God. We shall never perish. We have eternal life. Thanks be unto God for this unspeakable gift!
April 14, 2008
John 11:4 "When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby."
Jesus performed many miracles during his earthly ministry. Every one he performed was for the purpose of bringing glory to his Father as well as proving to the Jews that he was the Son of God.
Here, his best friend is sick. Word comes to Jesus of his condition. Jesus immediately declares that this sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God. Instead of leaving immediately for Bethany, he stayed where he was for two more days. Jesus later told his disciples that Lazarus "sleepeth." The disciples thought that he was sleeping and this would be good for him. But instead, Jesus meant that he was dead. Of course, word came that he had surely died. Now the questions and accusations arise concerning Christ and his compassion. How could you really be so concerned and yet you did not come to his aid?
Jesus of course came later and raised his friend from the dead for all to see. To the delight of the family, his friend Lazarus lives again. But for some, they still questioned Christ' reasoning. To others, they thought him cruel. Yet Christ made it clear that Lazarus was sick for the glory of God and in the end, he would raise him up.
We do not always understand the ways and timing of God. But we can rest assured, he is never late. We may be wanting Christ to heal our sickness, but God may want to resurrect us. Either way, God will have his way. We must learn to trust him and not get impatient when we do not fully understand the plan of God. God will do what is best for us and what will bring him the utmost glory. Even if it means four days in the grave.
April 15, 2008
John 11:26 "And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"
Jesus is talking to his dear friend Martha, whose brother Lazarus had just died. Jesus tries to comfort the family with the hope of the resurrection. Martha had no problem believing that one day, her family would be together in the resurrection. But her problem was now. Why had her friend Jesus, not come to the aid of her brother ? And how could she believe that Jesus could do anything to change this bad situation?
Jesus was touched by this event. He was close to this family. At the tomb, he weeps and identifies with their sorrow. But he still wants the family to accept the fact that this situation is not the end. Jesus is not just able to heal, he is able to raise from the dead. He ask them to believe in Him.
Note, it is difficult to trust and believe in Christ, when the very things you love are being taken away from you. It is hard to trust Christ when the circumstances of life go contrary to what you expect Christ to allow to happen. It is not easy to accept the fact that sometimes bad things happen to good people. But no matter what God allows to happen, in the end, he has a better plan for us. And whether he heals us now, or raises us later, either way, He cares for us. He hurts when we hurt, he mourns when we mourn, and he will be there to see us through those difficult times. And when it is all over, you will know that he has loved you through it all. Believest thou this?
April 16, 2008
John 12: 24 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."
Here is the principle of dying to bring forth life. When a grain of corn is planted into the ground, it cannot sprout into a stalk of corn until first it dies. Once it dies, it begins to grow and then can bring forth fruit.
Two things this passage teaches us. First, it shows the work that Christ did for us. He died and was planted so out of Him, could spring forth life through the multitudes that would believe and be saved. Had he not died, you and I could not live. That is the principle of dying to live.
Second, this passage applies to us as Christians. We are spiritually dead in trespasses and sin. Christ quickens us when we are saved, and we are made alive. We are His seed. But if we are to reproduce ourselves and become fruitful, we have to die. There has to be a dying to this world and a dying to self. We are totally dead to everything that is connected to the old life and the old man. Dead to habits, dead to carnal desires, dead to evil influences, dead to doubt and unbelief, dead to depression and anxiety, dead to all things that will hinder us from bringing forth fruit.
Paul said "I die daily." This death is not a one time event. Instead, we die each and every day to these awful influences. And it is not until we die and surrender our all to Him, that we can begin to grow in Him. Our dying to sin, self, and the world, allows us to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus.
If you are not bearing fruit, it could possibly be that you have not yet died. You cannot live unto yourself. Alive in Christ we are, but dead to the world and self we must become.
April 17, 2008
John 12:32 "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."
Jesus told his disciples over and over again that the temple of his body would soon be destroyed, but in three days it would be rebuilt. They could not grasp the fact of the death of their king and Messiah. They were looking for the establishment of a kingdom in which they would be able to reign with Christ.
As blinded as they were to his death, they were also blinded to the true purpose and meaning of his death. As Moses had lifted up the serpent in the wilderness to provide healing to all that looked to it, so Christ must also be lifted up from the earth. Here Christ again testifies to the necessity of his death. He came to this earth to die.
Though misunderstood by many and even hated by some, his death would become the focal point for all time and eternity. He said, "If I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me." Herein is the magnetism of the cross. The drawing power of Calvary has boggled men's minds for centuries. How could something so terrible as death on a cross, and someone so beaten and bruised as Christ was, become such an attraction to multitudes? "To the old rugged cross, I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear,....I will cling to the old rugged cross,..." the song says. And so history proves this verse. Men have and will continue to come to this old rugged cross and there lay down their burdens, and forever will never be the same.
Christ gladly became our sacrifice. He was lifted up on an old cross so man could be lifted out of sin's bondage. "I was sinking deep in sin,...but love, lifted me..."
No other religious symbol, nor any other religious leader has ever participated in any activity that has created as much interest and following as Christ's death on the cross. It truly is our symbol of faith and hope. It stands at the cross roads of time forever reaching in both directions to those in the past who looked forward to that day, and those of us who look back to what he accomplished for us. And yet, those who have yet to be born, will also look to that cross, and the same thing that drew us, will draw them. Thank God for the Cross!
April 18, 2008
John 13:16 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord: neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him."
Jesus used every opportunity possible to teach his disciples truth and principles to live by. One of the things he taught often was the truth about service, humility, and self-sacrifice.
Here, Jesus had gathered with his disciples. It was the custom of that day that the servant was to wash the feet of all the guests. Traveling in that day by foot, required frequent foot care. There was nothing more appropriate than to sit a guest down and wash his tired, dusty feet.
So far in this visit, no one had offered to show true servitude to those present. by washing the feet of the disciples and Jesus. They all seemed to be caught up in the conversation about who would be the greatest in the kingdom and who would sit on Christ right and left hand. Jesus takes this opportunity to teach them a real lesson. He rises up from supper and begins to pour water into a basin and begins to wash the disciple's feet.
Peter was somewhat taken back and at first refused to let the Master wash his feet. But Jesus wanted them to know that there was no difference between the master and the servant when it comes to humility and service.
No one in the kingdom of God holds any position higher than the King. Yet the King was willing to humble himself and perform the simplest of tasks. We should take note, that no matter what position we hold in the Kingdom, or no matter how far we may go in this life, we can never get too "big" or "high" that we cannot still do the work of a servant.
The Pastor is just a servant. We are all servants. We all need to be reminded that we should never lose sight of who we serve and how we got to where we are. Maybe we should look for some feet to wash.
April 19, 2008
John 13:34 "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another ; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another."
No doubt the greatest of all characteristics is love. Paul said, "faith, hope, and charity (love), the greatest of these is love." This "agape" , divine love, that emulates God and is unlimited in its scope, is the kind of love that is to be demonstrated by Christians.
John said in another place: "by this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if you have love one for another." The world is looking on as we pass through this life. They watch and listen as we go about our daily affairs. Sadly, they don't see much in some Christians, that would set them apart from the typical "John Doe" on the street. Yet we are not of this world and we should reflect God to this world in darkness. What is the one thing that testifies to the world that we belong to God? He said it was our love one for another.
And it is not just love for the brethren, although that is a big part of it. The Church is to love each other, do good to those in the household of faith, demonstrate patience, kindness, longsuffering, and bear each other's burdens. That testifies to the world that we are "family." We belong to the family of God and we are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
But that "agape" love reaches farther than the "brethren." It is manifested in our love for those outside the faith. We are to love sinners, for we once were where they are. We should have compassion for their needs, and should love them to Jesus. We may be the only truth they ever hear.
But that same "agape" love goes even to our enemies. It is easy to love our "brethren." It is even fairly easy to love those without Christ, for we remember when we too were outside the faith. But Jesus also said our love is to extend to our "enemies." Loving those that hate us is not so easy. Loving those that desire our hurt and harm, takes more than a Sunday morning religion. To love them that would see us dead, requires a love that is not of this world. It is that kind of love that looked down from the Cross and said: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Christ loved the whole world and that is what he would have us to do. Not just loving the loveable, but the un-loveable. This is the new commandment. Not an eye for an eye, but love should be our response, today, tomorrow, and always.
April 20, 2008
John 14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me."
In the last days, Christ said "men's heart will fail them for fear." There is trouble on every side. Men are perplexed about the circumstances around them. Wars and rumors of war create fear in the hearts of our children. Gas prices are at an all time high. There are cut backs at companies who have been in business for decades. Homes are under attack. Our youth are facing challenges that their parents would have never imagined when they were young. Little wonder that men's hearts are troubled.
Jesus in this passage is about to leave his disciples and begin his trip to the cross. This is what He came to earth for. The disciples were looking for a King, not a martyr. Yet this Jesus they had walked with for over three years, was about to be crucified. And the part that the disciples may have feared most, would have been that they were going to be left alone without a leader. And in his absence, they would be left to face the wrath of Rome for what the Roman leaders and religious leaders would label as anarchy.
So, they were surely troubled and who wouldn't be? No one knew what to expect in his absence and no one knew what to expect from their enemies. Their future was uncertain, their hearts were sad, and they were all troubled.
It is with that background that these powerful words were given. "Let not your hearts be troubled." The reason these words had such power is because of the words that followed. "If ye believe in God, believe also in me." God had promised his children that he would be with them, he would fight their battles, and he would never let their enemies destroy them. The Word of God is filled with promises that comforts his children, and this Jesus had assured the disciples that "he was God in the flesh." So the comfort is that if you can trust God, you can trust me.
You can take that same promise given to those fearful disciples on that historical day, and apply them to your situation and life today. God will not fail you and Christ has promised to keep ever promise he ever made. Don't be troubled about tomorrow, for he will be there to see you through. Don't be troubled about your needs, for he is the great provider. Don't be troubled about your enemy, for God is your defense and your rock of safety. You are saved, safe, secure, sealed and that is something you can take comfort in. Let not your heart be troubled. Jesus is coming soon and all our troubles will be over soon. Rest in the Lord. He is in full control.
April 21, 2008
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. 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."
Man can not even imagine what Heaven is going to be like. There are some people who have had "death" experiences and refer to "white lights, tunnels of lights, peaceful surroundings, music," and so on. I am not sure about these experiences and certainly would not dare to try to validate them or invalidate them. But we do have a record of what Jesus promised us in the next step of this journey for the child of God.
First, Jesus said that in His Father's house are "many mansions." Modern versions have tried to take away the hope of this happy thought by saying it really means "many rooms."
Now I am not very smart, but even a fool knows the difference between a mansion and a room. I cannot get too excited about the thoughts of Christ the Groom, preparing a place for us the Bride, and for over 2000 thousand years, he has been working on a "room" for us. That just seems to lose some of its splendor. But to think about our Savior preparing a "mansion" for us, and taking 2000 years to complete it, seems to match up with the kind of God we love and serve.
But I have to say, the mansion is not really what excites me. It is the fact that He is preparing for us a place, and keeping with His promise, and in just a short while, he is returning for us.
Verse 3 goes on to say, "I will come again unto you." The promise of his return is the hope of the Church. Nothing gives me more strength and courage to go on, than the truth that Jesus Christ is coming back to receive us unto himself. We shall leave behind all our troubles and sorrows, and forever we shall be in his presence. This is our hope and comfort. Heaven and all it's splendor awaits the child of God. And we shall live with him, with all the saints of God, the angels, and throughout all eternity, celebrate the majesty and holiness of God, who is worthy to receive praise and honor. As a child of God, we have been given so much. Think about all He has done for you. All of this and Heaven too!
April 22, 2008
John 14:12 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."
The earthly ministry of Jesus was relatively short in comparison to many men of God throughout history. Moses was called in his old age, but even at eighty, he served God for forty years and led Israel out of Egypt's bondage. Many Bible characters like David, Solomon, and even Peter, John, and Paul all enjoyed many years of service. But Jesus began his earthly ministry at age thirty and lived for only three and one half years more before he was crucified.
During this time, he never preached to hundreds of thousands in football stadiums like Billy Graham. He never preached on radio and TV, that covered households literally around the world. His ministry was centered around Galilee and in comparison to some of these men, his time was very short. Yet what he accomplished in that short time has far reaching effects, thousands of years later. No one could do what he did in providing salvation. His death on the cross paid a debt that no other man could ever pay. His was a supernatural work that changed time and eternity.
Yet Jesus said that those that believe on him, shall do the works that he did, and even greater works shall they do. How could we do works greater than the works of Christ? Herein lies a great prophecy and promise to us in the Church.
We that are saved, have been given opportunity to do things that no other generation has ever done. We have the tools and resources to literally reach the world with the gospel.
We are able to preach to larger crowds, build bigger, larger ministries, preach the Gospel to people around the world that we will never meet face to face, and accomplish works for God that the first century church could not even imagine.
With that opportunity comes greater accountability. Christ knew the day would come when the gospel would be preached to every creature. What a thrill it is to be a part of the Bride of Christ in the last days, with the open door of the Gospel to the whole world. We should never take for granted that God has brought us to this day for "such a time as this." We cannot afford to drop the ball and miss out on the last day harvest. Preach the Word! Sow the Seed! Pray and be faithful! Jesus Christ is Coming Soon! Do all you can while you can where ever you can. The power is in the Gospel of Christ. Use it!
April 23, 2008
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
The believer has been given access to heaven through the avenue of prayer. We can approach God with our petitions and expect to receive an answer. That is granted to us as believers. But the one requirement to make our prayers effective is that we are to ask in "his name."
Jesus' name is the key that grants us access to the Father. Everything the Father does for us, He does it for Jesus' sake. Because of the Son's position as mediator between man and God, man must ask in Jesus' name.
Every time we ask in Jesus' name, and God answers that request, the Father is glorified in the Son. It pleases the Father when we come to Him in Jesus' name, for it acknowledges the work of the Son, his authority, and it recognizes the sacrifice and love of the Father in that he gave his Son for us.
Think about this arrangement. The Father in heaven, gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for sinners like you and me, and anything we ask the Father for in Jesus' name, shall be granted us. What a blessing! What a Savior! What a God!
Now we cannot abuse this position of grace. We cannot approach God with selfish requests to satisfy our lustful cravings. We cannot expect God to act like a "sugar daddy" who flashes large stacks of money and promises us popularity and fame and fortune. All of these things are the false promises of Satan, the god of this world and the fantasy life he promises to those that serve him. But it is all a lie. That is not like our God. He wants what is best for us. He supplies our every need. He protects us and loves us and is always looking out for our care. And even the things we desire, he will not withhold to "them that walk uprightly." God will give us the desires of our heart if we give Him our heart.
So enjoy this wonderful relationship you have with the Father. It is special. You should never worry or fret. He is always near and ready to answer your prayer. Call, and He will answer. Ask in "his name," and he will give it.
April 24, 2008
John 14:16 "And I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever."
The announcement to the disciples that Jesus was going away caused them to be greatly troubled and afraid. For more than three years, they had walked with Jesus, heard him teach, watched him perform miracles, and what ever situation they found themselves in, they could take comfort in the fact that Jesus was with them and he was in control.
They had watched him calm the storms while on the Sea of Galilee. They had watched him provide food for the thousands. They saw him heal the sick, raise the dead, and open ears and eyes of men previously without hope. Now he was about to leave them, and that was anything but comforting.
Jesus promises them that he is petitioning the Father to send someone to take his place, who will be to them the same comfort they have enjoyed for these three years. Here he identifies who this Comforter will be. Of course we know him as the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is called Comforter to identify part of what his ministry will be. Comforter is the word "paracletos" or "one called along side to help." He stands by us to defend us, comfort us, and take up where Christ left off when he returned to the Father.
This Spirit of God, the Comforter comes to live inside of the believer at the moment of salvation. He takes up permanent residence in our bodies. We are the temple of God in which the Holy Spirit lives. His presence testifies to our belonging to God. His presence assures us that God will never leave us. His presence calms and comforts us no matter what the situation around may be. His presence gives us direction and instruction in times of confusion. And the good part is that even though Jesus had to leave his disciples to return to the Father, this Comforter would abide with us for ever.
We take comfort in the abiding presence of this Comforter. Knowing that he will always be with us, is a comfort within itself. The song says: "He abides, He abides, Hallelujah He abides with me."
April 25, 2008
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
One of the world's most treasured commodities is peace. The world leaders strive year after year to come up with a plan for peace. Men search for peace in a bottle of booze or in a powder or a pill. Young people search for peace and march in rallies proclaiming that peace and love is the answer to this world's problems.
But we know that there is no peace apart from the peace giver. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and He alone can give the kind of peace that man is looking for. Peace that sustains you and peace that does not fade with time or circumstances.
Jesus told his disciples that he was giving them peace, not like the world gives, but eternal, everlasting peace. Because of this peace, he challenged them that they should not let their hearts suffer trouble or anxiety. His peace would be with them and in Him they could take comfort.
Are you looking for peace? Is your life in turmoil over circumstances you cannot control? Have you reached the end of all your understanding? Do you feel like your life is out of control? Do you wish that this life was ended and you did not have to face tomorrow? Let me remind you of His peace. The Spirit within you will give you peace. You can trust him to give you calmness in the midst of the storm. Don't give in to your fears, but let the peace of God rule your hearts. Don't listen to the fears of Satan, for that will do nothing but torment you. Rest in the Lord, I say Rest! His peace is present to assure you that He is in control! There is nothing He cannot do! There is no need He cannot supply! There is no battle He cannot win! Rest in Him! There in is peace.
If you are not saved, then you will never have peace until you let Jesus into your heart. Then you can know this peace that passeth all understanding. Know Him today!
April 26, 2008
John 15:2 "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit."
We are the branches and the Father is the vine. We gather our life giving strength from the Father. As long as we bear fruit, we are not purged. When we fail to bear fruit, we have to purged or pruned so we will bear more fruit.
It is a difficult thing to understand how the purging process works. To see a tree that is bearing fruit go through being pruned and cut, and consider that it is all for their good, does not make sense to the carnal mind. The tree, if it could talk would no doubt question why all the pain, even after I have been bearing fruit. Yet for the one who is bearing fruit, he will become more fruitful through this process.
The same is true in our Christian life. God is pleased when we bear fruit. He is glorified when we bear much fruit. For us to bear the maximum amount of fruit, our lives have to be purged. And at times, it doesn't make sense that we must suffer pain just to become more fruitful. The fact is, most of us are satisfied if we bear any fruit. But God wants us to accomplish as much as we possibly can. He wants to make us produce more than we think possible. To do this requires the painful process of purging.
God working in our lives to make us fruitful and that is painful, but it is necessary. Without pain, we will not bring Him total glory. God help us not to complain or try to resist his working in our lives. He knows what is best for us and he knows how much we can take. He will not press us beyond measure. It is all for our good and His glory.
April 27, 2008
John 15:8 "Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
All creation has been created to glorify God. God is deserving of all praise and glory. God is almighty, sovereign, all-powerful, all-knowing, full of grace, longsuffering, and mercy. He is, has been forever, and will always be. He is good and does good. He is love, light and in Him is life. He is tender-hearted, kind, and pities like a Father. He leads us like a Shepherd. He loves us like a Father. He is a Friend that sticks closer than a brother. Words cannot fully describe who He is and what He does. And because of His goodness and greatness, He deserves all glory.
When God made man, he was satisfied that he had created us in his image and therefore could reflect him and glorify him. He knew man would fall and need a Savior. He gave His Son, Jesus Christ, before the foundation of the world, to provide Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. As men come to God through faith in Jesus Christ, he gives us the Holy Ghost to live in us and teach us how to please God in our walk. He provides for us everything we need to reflect God through our lives. As the Vine, he is the source of our life-giving power that causes us to not just survive, but thrive. As we allow Him to fill us with "himself", we are then given the ability to bear fruit. The fruit is evidence that there is "life" in the branches and that there is a source of water that flows through us. This "water" in us provides growth to the branches, and fruit in our lives.
Every fruit reflects life. Every fruit testifies to the "vine" or the tree. Every fruit bears seed that allows the vine to live on to generations to come. Every fruit has the ability to become another vine or tree that can bear more fruit. Every fruit brings glory and honor to the owner of the vineyard or orchard. That is what God says about us. He is glorified when we bear much fruit.
He did not plant us to "look" good as an ornament. He planted us to produce and in our reproducing, we bring glory to the Father.
Let me ask you this one important question: "Are you glorifying God through your life?" The way to glorify him is not through praise, but through producing fruit. Have you any fruit my friend?
April 28, 2008
John 15:11 "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
The Bible has a lot to say about joy. In Nehemiah, God says that the "joy of the Lord is our strength." Most people to not equate their strength with joy, but it is true. Peter talked about the future inheritance of the saints, when we see Christ and receive our eternal inheritance. In that context, he mentioned that we might "rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." That day will surely be a day of unspeakable joy.
John wrote in one of his Epistles that he had no "greater joy than to hear that his children walk in truth." And there is a great amount of joy that comes with the good news of God's children walking in the will and obedience of God.
David understood the importance of joy, when he asked God to "restore the joy of salvation" that he had lost when he sinned against God. Sin is the one thing that will rob us of joy. We cannot expect to joy in the Lord if our lives are filled with iniquity.
In John 15, Jesus instructs his disciples to keep his commandments, abide in him, and bear fruit. These are the essentials of the Christian life. Jesus said, if you do these things, then his joy "will remain in you." God wants us to walk in victory and joy. It is not his will that we live defeated lives. So many Christians today lack joy because they are not walking in obedience. If your joy is lacking, check your heart and see if sin is present.
Jesus also said that he wanted our "joy to be full." Full joy is God's perfect will for the committed Christian. He does not want us to experience a half-hearted, mediocre Christian life, but he wants us to be excited, satisfied, joyful, and completely under the control of the Holy Spirit. He lives within us and one of the fruits of the Spirit is joy. How is your joy? Do you have that "joy unspeakable"? Do you enjoy the strength that comes through that joy? If the joy of the Lord is missing in your life, you need to check up, and check up quickly!
April 29, 2008
John 15:13 "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Love is expressed in many ways. A word, a note, an act of affection, a kiss on the cheek, a gift, flowers, a poem, a song, that special meal, a new dress, chocolates, a touch, a whisper, a look, a wink, night out, or a trip back to where it all began. Loves comes in many different packages. Love is involved in many different kinds of relationships. There is the love of parents for children, love of brother and sisters, love of family, love of husband and wife, love of your neighbor, love of pleasure, love of things, love of country, and love of self.
Even with all the different kinds of love and the different ways that love and affection is shown, there is no doubt that the greatest act of true love and affection is for one to lay down his life for another.
Every day, in conflict and war, men and women give their lives for their country and the cause of freedom. No one doubts their act of love for country and freedom's cause for the price of their blood proves this to be true. We all salute those who have given their lives so that we can enjoy the freedom that this country affords.
Yet, the greatest love ever demonstrated took place on a little hill outside the walls of Jerusalem, at a place of the skull, called Golgotha, or Mount Calvary. Nearly 2000 years ago, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, freely gave his life as a ransom for the sins of the whole world. He carried the cross up Calvary's hill, and there he hung between Heaven and Hell, was mocked, afflicted, forsaken by his own Father, and when men gambled for the last piece of clothing he possessed, he said "Father, forgive them."
This same Jesus, looks at people like you and me, who deserve to go to Hell, and he not only forgives us of our sins, gives us eternal life, but he calls us "friends." We, who with Adam's fallen race, rebelled against God, and put his Son on a cross, now calls us friends. What a Savior!
Let's not take this wonderful relationship for granted. Let's love God, love each other and love sinners. Because of his love, we should pass on that love to others. We should be willing to follow his example and lay down our lives for our "friends."
April 30, 2008
John 15:13 "Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you."
What a verse of Scripture and what a concept: that God would call us friends!
Adam walked with God in the cool of the evening each day in the garden and no doubt talked like friends. Moses talked to God face to face as friends. Abraham was called the "friend of God."
Throughout Scripture, several men were friends of God. Imagine, being close enough to God, to have a relationship with Him that resembles the way you and your best friend would behave. You would share your innermost secrets, your heart's desires, and you would cherish every moment you spent together. You would laugh, cry, and rejoice together. You could not wait to have that time together.
That is what some of these men enjoyed with God. It was a close relationship between best of friends.
We are saved and given the responsibility to serve the Lord and occupy until He returns. We are servants, as Paul himself referred to his relationship to God. Servants, or "bond slaves", that have been set free and now are bound to Him by love. We are pardoned slaves, now free to serve him out of love and gratitude.
Yet, God says to his servants, I no longer call you that, but now you are my friend. Could you imagine a slave, serving his master for many years, until the day, he is set free and pardoned, never to be sold again. Now instead of going off on his own, he "serves" his new master who bought him off the slave market and set him free. And one day, after years of faithful, loving service to one who you owe your freedom and life, your master looks at you before all his friends and family, and he says, this is not my servant, but this is my friend. Wow! Imagine that!
Yet for us who are saved, we were bought off the slave market of Satan, given freedom, but because of his love for us, we out of love for him "serve" him as a bond slave. We love him for making us free and we place ourselves in "bondage" to him and serve him forever. What joy we experience when he looks at us, former slaves, rejects, and has-beens, and he calls us friends. That is love, my friend. And no one can ever top that!