Matthew 7:21-27
Among the more heart-wrenching sights to see is when you watch a nice house come crashing down, often off of the side of a hill, or near the edge of a cliff. I’ve seen news footage of this happening to beautiful homes in California, usually after heavy rains. These homes were built on the sides of large hills, usually so the owner can have breathtaking views every day from his windows and patio deck. Sometimes the houses were built along a coastal cliff, again so the owner can have a beautiful view of the ocean. Alas, though, the house came crashing down, usually because it was built on unstable ground. The developer had lured the unsuspecting homeowner into building his luxury home in this spot with the beautiful view, not paying attention to the fact that the ground was not stable. After storms, the house came crashing down and all was lost. As we shall read in our Scripture today from the Gospel of Matthew, a sure foundation is important.
In our passage for today, Jesus has two messages He wants us to learn. The first is that just because someone calls themselves something, doesn’t necessarily mean they are. Someone can say they have a real talent or ability in this or that, but really know very little about it. Here in verses 21-23 Jesus tells us that not everyone who says they are a Christian is genuinely saved. Jesus tells us that there will be some who will stand before Him one day, proudly professing all the good things they did, supposedly in His Name, but who had failed to genuinely accept Him as their Savior. This group will even include some pastors and various church workers who were never truly saved.
Not everyone who talks about God and spiritual things belongs to God’s kingdom. Jesus is more concerned about our walk than our talk. What we do cannot be separated from what we believe. The faith that says, but does not do is really unbelief. Works do not save us, but true faith will not fail to produce the fruit of good works (James 1:22-25, James 2:26). One who is truly saved is one that does the will of God, living in obedience to the will of God as the normal course of his life. Only our relationship with Christ, accepting Him as Savior, and our obedience to Him will matter. Faith in Christ is what counts on Judgment Day.
Jesus then proceeds to give the account of two houses that were built, one built upon rock, the other built upon sand (vs. 24-27). Storms came, and only one house remained standing, because of it’s firm foundation. The foundation that Jesus is talking about requires paying attention to, and listening to His words, and then doing what He says. If we only listen, but do not take action, we’ve accomplished nothing. Jesus’ words are to be the foundation for our lives.
Hearing the Word of God alone will not change a life, and is not enough. One must hear and do what Jesus said. Putting His words into practice will help us to withstand the storms. Those who ignore and neglect His words have their foundation on sand. The Apostle Paul echoes this teaching in I Corinthians 3:11. It is important to lay a proper foundation, one in Christ, the Rock, not in the shifting sands of false religions and philosophies. Only a spiritual life built on the foundation of obedience to God’s Word stands. One of repentance, salvation by faith, and trusting in Jesus’ grace alone.
It is not a watered-down, “everyone is in” Gospel that Jesus proclaimed here. If we give that message, not a soul will be saved. Those who do proclaim that type of message will one day stand before Jesus and hear Him say “Depart from me. I never knew you.” His way is straight and narrow (Matthew 7:13-14). There are many who appear to be walking the narrow way, but have never accepted Jesus as Savior. Build on the Rock - be a hearing, responding disciple, not a phony, superficial one. Obedience and faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation that will weather the storm. The storm will come! Be sure your foundation is sure!
Friday, June 5, 2020
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
A Sinner Saved By Grace
Romans 3:21-28
Do you feel that there are some people who have done such terrible things that they could never go to heaven when they die? Perhaps some terrible serial killer, child abuser, or a brutal dictator. We look at their life and the crimes they committed, and feel that no, God can never accept them. Or maybe you feel that, even though you might not fall into any of those categories, you still feel that you’ll never make it to heaven after some of the things you’ve done. Perhaps you are on the other side of that coin, and feel that you’ve been a pretty good character throughout life. Your checklist is marked off in all the right categories - church activities, all the right community organizations, school boards, check, check, check. You’re a good upstanding citizen and church member, certainly there’s a nice spot in heaven for you. Let’s take a look at what God has to say in our Scripture passage today from the Book of Romans.
As we read through this passage, we can see right away that God will accept all who believe (vs. 22). God will accept anybody, literally anybody, who comes to faith in His Son Jesus Christ as their Savior. This righteousness that God is giving out has nothing to do with whether a person has done all sorts of good deeds, or even kept the Old Testament Law. It all depends on Jesus. God will give His righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe, and it is available to everyone, no matter who they are or what they’ve done. This is God’s mercy for us.
We all need our sins taken care of because they separate us from God, who is perfect and right. God made His Son, who never sinned, the offering for our sins, so that we would be made right with Him (II Corinthians 5:21). Jesus makes us righteous, and puts us in a right relationship with God. It is His Blood that is the only true and permanent offering for sin that is acceptable with God, not any good deeds that we do, nor any Old Testament sacrifices that could be offered. It is with Jesus’ Blood that we can have assurance of our salvation. It doesn’t come by human logic. It is a matter of faith. Do we believe God, or do we not? Believe God’s Word, and not our own thinking (I John 5:13). The gift of a personal relationship with God is imparted to those who trust Christ.
No one can claim they have never done wrong, that they are pure and innocent (vs. 23). We may look good to others, but we can never attain God’s standard of righteousness. Everyone has sinned. All sin makes us sinners. All sin cuts us off from a holy God. It leads to death because it disqualifies us from living with God. However, the good news is that through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, God has redeemed us. He will forgive us if we come to Him in faith.
Christ’s death satisfies the Father’s righteous demands (vs. 25-26). It becomes appropriated (becomes ours) only when we put our faith and trust in Him. Jesus died in our place, for our sins. God declared Jesus’ death to be the appropriate, designated sacrifice for our sins. Jesus Christ stands in our place, having paid the penalty of death for our sin. He completely satisfied God’s demands, bringing pardon, deliverance, and freedom to all who believe.
In verse 24 we read the word “justified”, a form of the word “justification”. Justified means being declared righteous. It signifies the believer’s spiritual legal standing before God. For those who have accepted Jesus as Savior, they are justified, which is accomplished by God’s grace, His unmerited favor. We are declared “not guilty”. All charges have been removed from the record. When God forgives our sin, our record is wiped clean. From God’s perspective, it is as though we had never sinned. It was Jesus’ death which paid for this. The sinner is released on the basis that Jesus paid the price.
In closing, I would say to all who read this - Trust Christ to take away your sins. Put your confidence in Him to forgive your sins, and to make you right with God. He will then empower you to live the way He taught us. Jesus Christ is the only valid One in which all mankind must place their faith in order to live with God for eternity. Jesus purchased our salvation and a place in heaven for us, and the price was His Blood.
Do you feel that there are some people who have done such terrible things that they could never go to heaven when they die? Perhaps some terrible serial killer, child abuser, or a brutal dictator. We look at their life and the crimes they committed, and feel that no, God can never accept them. Or maybe you feel that, even though you might not fall into any of those categories, you still feel that you’ll never make it to heaven after some of the things you’ve done. Perhaps you are on the other side of that coin, and feel that you’ve been a pretty good character throughout life. Your checklist is marked off in all the right categories - church activities, all the right community organizations, school boards, check, check, check. You’re a good upstanding citizen and church member, certainly there’s a nice spot in heaven for you. Let’s take a look at what God has to say in our Scripture passage today from the Book of Romans.
As we read through this passage, we can see right away that God will accept all who believe (vs. 22). God will accept anybody, literally anybody, who comes to faith in His Son Jesus Christ as their Savior. This righteousness that God is giving out has nothing to do with whether a person has done all sorts of good deeds, or even kept the Old Testament Law. It all depends on Jesus. God will give His righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe, and it is available to everyone, no matter who they are or what they’ve done. This is God’s mercy for us.
We all need our sins taken care of because they separate us from God, who is perfect and right. God made His Son, who never sinned, the offering for our sins, so that we would be made right with Him (II Corinthians 5:21). Jesus makes us righteous, and puts us in a right relationship with God. It is His Blood that is the only true and permanent offering for sin that is acceptable with God, not any good deeds that we do, nor any Old Testament sacrifices that could be offered. It is with Jesus’ Blood that we can have assurance of our salvation. It doesn’t come by human logic. It is a matter of faith. Do we believe God, or do we not? Believe God’s Word, and not our own thinking (I John 5:13). The gift of a personal relationship with God is imparted to those who trust Christ.
No one can claim they have never done wrong, that they are pure and innocent (vs. 23). We may look good to others, but we can never attain God’s standard of righteousness. Everyone has sinned. All sin makes us sinners. All sin cuts us off from a holy God. It leads to death because it disqualifies us from living with God. However, the good news is that through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, God has redeemed us. He will forgive us if we come to Him in faith.
Christ’s death satisfies the Father’s righteous demands (vs. 25-26). It becomes appropriated (becomes ours) only when we put our faith and trust in Him. Jesus died in our place, for our sins. God declared Jesus’ death to be the appropriate, designated sacrifice for our sins. Jesus Christ stands in our place, having paid the penalty of death for our sin. He completely satisfied God’s demands, bringing pardon, deliverance, and freedom to all who believe.
In verse 24 we read the word “justified”, a form of the word “justification”. Justified means being declared righteous. It signifies the believer’s spiritual legal standing before God. For those who have accepted Jesus as Savior, they are justified, which is accomplished by God’s grace, His unmerited favor. We are declared “not guilty”. All charges have been removed from the record. When God forgives our sin, our record is wiped clean. From God’s perspective, it is as though we had never sinned. It was Jesus’ death which paid for this. The sinner is released on the basis that Jesus paid the price.
In closing, I would say to all who read this - Trust Christ to take away your sins. Put your confidence in Him to forgive your sins, and to make you right with God. He will then empower you to live the way He taught us. Jesus Christ is the only valid One in which all mankind must place their faith in order to live with God for eternity. Jesus purchased our salvation and a place in heaven for us, and the price was His Blood.
Monday, June 1, 2020
Our Rock And Fortress In Times Of Trouble
Psalm 31
When there is trouble in our life and in the world around us, where do we go? Right now, and for the past several days, there has been a lot of unrest across my country, descending into rioting and vandalism. It has come right into my own neighborhood. Other places across the world have known similar unrest, danger, and even war. There are also serious personal struggles that people go through, and problems that we face with other people. Where can we go to find peace and rest from all of this? King David, the author of our psalm today, faced many days of turmoil and danger throughout his life. Where did he turn? Where did he find a refuge? Let’s look into the Scripture.
David’s life was one filled with struggles and turmoil, and with very few days of peace or rest. He had to flee the frequent murderous attacks for many years from King Saul. Then after the Lord made him king, there were battles with the descendants of the former King Saul, an attempt by his son Absalom to take the throne, and numerous wars with surrounding nations. King David had many enemies, and knew what it was like to face dangerous attacks. When we face times of trouble, and fear for our safety, we have the choice of descending into panic or putting our trust in the Lord. We can flee to Him for help and safety (vs. 1-3).
In the wilderness areas of the Middle East, there are many large rocks, often many times bigger than a man. David was quite familiar with that landscape, and he knew that one could find safety hiding behind or in the crevices of such huge rocks. Yet even more so, he knew that the Lord God is an even safer Rock to flee to. He knew God to be an even safer Fortress than the fortresses he had built as king. David prayed to God to deliver him from his troubles. He made his request based on what he knew of God’s Name and righteous, loving character. Jesus is our safe Rock and Fortress. We need to turn to Him during the dangerous and scary times we face, too.
David committed his life and spirit to the Lord God, as we see in verse 5. Jesus quoted this verse while He hung upon the Cross (Luke 23:46). David had complete trust in God. When Jesus said these words on the Cross, He showed absolute dependence in the Father. Stephen also repeated these words when he was stoned (Acts 7:59). Both knew they were passing from God’s earthly care to God’s eternal care. We, too, need to commit ourselves, our family, and all we have completely to Him.
The enemies we face may seem to have the upper hand (vs. 9-13). However, ultimately they are helpless and hopeless. God’s children will be victorious in the end. We can have courage, knowing God will preserve us (vs. 23). All of life’s circumstances are under God’s control. Knowing He loves and cares for us should strengthen our faith, regardless of what we are going through. When we accept Jesus as our Savior and become His children, we are never victims of our circumstances. Our lives are in the Lord’s hands, not in anyone else’s (vs. 15). That includes those we fear, those who attack us and put us in danger.
We are at this specific point in life, with all of its trials, by God’s appointment. We can rest in that knowledge. He will keep us in His love. God can turn the trial we are going through into a blessing if we learn the lessons He wishes to teach us. In God’s good time, He will bring us out of that trial again. God has plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11), plans for our good, and not for evil. This truth can be our lifeline for the future. We can have hope from God. He gave His Son to die on the Cross for us.
Just as David did, when we are faced with trouble or danger, we need to remember God’s faithfulness and power. David knew God’s strength was sufficient, and His promises of protection, peace and help is true. Like David, we need to trust God, rather than give in to despair. Turn each fear and worry over to God, and discover that He is more than sufficient to carry us safely through.
When there is trouble in our life and in the world around us, where do we go? Right now, and for the past several days, there has been a lot of unrest across my country, descending into rioting and vandalism. It has come right into my own neighborhood. Other places across the world have known similar unrest, danger, and even war. There are also serious personal struggles that people go through, and problems that we face with other people. Where can we go to find peace and rest from all of this? King David, the author of our psalm today, faced many days of turmoil and danger throughout his life. Where did he turn? Where did he find a refuge? Let’s look into the Scripture.
David’s life was one filled with struggles and turmoil, and with very few days of peace or rest. He had to flee the frequent murderous attacks for many years from King Saul. Then after the Lord made him king, there were battles with the descendants of the former King Saul, an attempt by his son Absalom to take the throne, and numerous wars with surrounding nations. King David had many enemies, and knew what it was like to face dangerous attacks. When we face times of trouble, and fear for our safety, we have the choice of descending into panic or putting our trust in the Lord. We can flee to Him for help and safety (vs. 1-3).
In the wilderness areas of the Middle East, there are many large rocks, often many times bigger than a man. David was quite familiar with that landscape, and he knew that one could find safety hiding behind or in the crevices of such huge rocks. Yet even more so, he knew that the Lord God is an even safer Rock to flee to. He knew God to be an even safer Fortress than the fortresses he had built as king. David prayed to God to deliver him from his troubles. He made his request based on what he knew of God’s Name and righteous, loving character. Jesus is our safe Rock and Fortress. We need to turn to Him during the dangerous and scary times we face, too.
David committed his life and spirit to the Lord God, as we see in verse 5. Jesus quoted this verse while He hung upon the Cross (Luke 23:46). David had complete trust in God. When Jesus said these words on the Cross, He showed absolute dependence in the Father. Stephen also repeated these words when he was stoned (Acts 7:59). Both knew they were passing from God’s earthly care to God’s eternal care. We, too, need to commit ourselves, our family, and all we have completely to Him.
The enemies we face may seem to have the upper hand (vs. 9-13). However, ultimately they are helpless and hopeless. God’s children will be victorious in the end. We can have courage, knowing God will preserve us (vs. 23). All of life’s circumstances are under God’s control. Knowing He loves and cares for us should strengthen our faith, regardless of what we are going through. When we accept Jesus as our Savior and become His children, we are never victims of our circumstances. Our lives are in the Lord’s hands, not in anyone else’s (vs. 15). That includes those we fear, those who attack us and put us in danger.
We are at this specific point in life, with all of its trials, by God’s appointment. We can rest in that knowledge. He will keep us in His love. God can turn the trial we are going through into a blessing if we learn the lessons He wishes to teach us. In God’s good time, He will bring us out of that trial again. God has plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11), plans for our good, and not for evil. This truth can be our lifeline for the future. We can have hope from God. He gave His Son to die on the Cross for us.
Just as David did, when we are faced with trouble or danger, we need to remember God’s faithfulness and power. David knew God’s strength was sufficient, and His promises of protection, peace and help is true. Like David, we need to trust God, rather than give in to despair. Turn each fear and worry over to God, and discover that He is more than sufficient to carry us safely through.
Saturday, May 30, 2020
Teach Your Children Well
Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28
Throughout the Bible we read how seriously and important the Lord places the rearing of children to be. From a very early age He desires parents to instruct and teach their children His Word. We read one such command from the Lord in today’s passage from the Book of Deuteronomy. This book of the Old Testament encompasses the final words and instructions of Moses to the people of Israel, just prior to their entrance into the Promised Land. Throughout this book of the Bible, and in numerous other places of Scripture we are told how important it is to instruct our children and grandchildren in God’s Word, even from a very early age. As we look into these Scriptures, let’s see what we can learn.
In the past several decades there have been people who have pushed the idea that parents should not be teaching or instructing children in their religious faith, and that it is best to let the children decide for themselves what they will believe. Some of these free-thinkers even suggest that a parent should not be imparting their morality or ethical thinking on their children. They feel that children should be left to come to their own beliefs and ideas on their own, with no help or guidance from any adult.
This is completely contrary to what the Lord God has said. Children are His gift and His blessing, and throughout Scripture He instructs parents to teach them His Words (vs. 19). Freethinkers often say to let the child decide what to believe. How can a child tell the difference between what is right and what is wrong? With a lot of grown-ups still struggling with that, it is especially difficult for a child to discern, yet that is something so important to learn. It is not good to just leave that for the child to decide. They will grab at the first flashy thing with shiny ribbons on it. Then when they find that there is a hook in it, it’s too late. Wrong ideas come packed with so much sparkle, and then when they are in trouble, it’s too late to realize the right idea was better in the long run.
Without any grounding in the Word of God and His truth, Satan will lure our children down the wrong path. It’s up to Christian parents to teach them God’s way from the very start, before it’s too late. We all like to have a map or some sort of directions before we head off on a trip to an unfamiliar place. Life is an unknown journey, and without any sort of guidance one can find themselves in a mess of trouble or even danger, and then end life heading in the wrong direction, to an eternity of damnation. No true Christian would want that for their children! God’s Word is our map through life, leading us to an eternity with Him.
In our Scripture passage God tells His children to put His Word up throughout their homes (vs. 20-21). Many Christians have artwork in their homes that incorporate words of Scripture in them. Keeping God’s Word in front of us throughout the day reminds us of His truths, and helps us all to memorize it. As we teach the Bible to our children and grandchildren, we are also learning it’s truths ourselves. Teaching God’s message of grace should be our first priority as parents and grandparents.
As our passage continues, Moses urges the people to make the right choice in their lives (vs. 26-28). Both Israel and God had agreed to the terms of the covenant they had together. The blessings God promised the people would benefit them if they kept their part of the covenant. The curses would fall on them if they broke the covenant, thus forfeiting God’s blessings. They had the choice between blessings and curses. Unfortunately throughout Israel’s history their disobedience brought the curses upon them.
God offers us the same choice. If we choose Jesus Christ for our Savior, and worship only Him, if we read and obey His Word, we will receive His blessings. However if we run after false gods and philosophies in our life, if we follow our own way rather than His Word, we will reap the curses. What choice will we make? Choose wisely!
Throughout the Bible we read how seriously and important the Lord places the rearing of children to be. From a very early age He desires parents to instruct and teach their children His Word. We read one such command from the Lord in today’s passage from the Book of Deuteronomy. This book of the Old Testament encompasses the final words and instructions of Moses to the people of Israel, just prior to their entrance into the Promised Land. Throughout this book of the Bible, and in numerous other places of Scripture we are told how important it is to instruct our children and grandchildren in God’s Word, even from a very early age. As we look into these Scriptures, let’s see what we can learn.
In the past several decades there have been people who have pushed the idea that parents should not be teaching or instructing children in their religious faith, and that it is best to let the children decide for themselves what they will believe. Some of these free-thinkers even suggest that a parent should not be imparting their morality or ethical thinking on their children. They feel that children should be left to come to their own beliefs and ideas on their own, with no help or guidance from any adult.
This is completely contrary to what the Lord God has said. Children are His gift and His blessing, and throughout Scripture He instructs parents to teach them His Words (vs. 19). Freethinkers often say to let the child decide what to believe. How can a child tell the difference between what is right and what is wrong? With a lot of grown-ups still struggling with that, it is especially difficult for a child to discern, yet that is something so important to learn. It is not good to just leave that for the child to decide. They will grab at the first flashy thing with shiny ribbons on it. Then when they find that there is a hook in it, it’s too late. Wrong ideas come packed with so much sparkle, and then when they are in trouble, it’s too late to realize the right idea was better in the long run.
Without any grounding in the Word of God and His truth, Satan will lure our children down the wrong path. It’s up to Christian parents to teach them God’s way from the very start, before it’s too late. We all like to have a map or some sort of directions before we head off on a trip to an unfamiliar place. Life is an unknown journey, and without any sort of guidance one can find themselves in a mess of trouble or even danger, and then end life heading in the wrong direction, to an eternity of damnation. No true Christian would want that for their children! God’s Word is our map through life, leading us to an eternity with Him.
In our Scripture passage God tells His children to put His Word up throughout their homes (vs. 20-21). Many Christians have artwork in their homes that incorporate words of Scripture in them. Keeping God’s Word in front of us throughout the day reminds us of His truths, and helps us all to memorize it. As we teach the Bible to our children and grandchildren, we are also learning it’s truths ourselves. Teaching God’s message of grace should be our first priority as parents and grandparents.
As our passage continues, Moses urges the people to make the right choice in their lives (vs. 26-28). Both Israel and God had agreed to the terms of the covenant they had together. The blessings God promised the people would benefit them if they kept their part of the covenant. The curses would fall on them if they broke the covenant, thus forfeiting God’s blessings. They had the choice between blessings and curses. Unfortunately throughout Israel’s history their disobedience brought the curses upon them.
God offers us the same choice. If we choose Jesus Christ for our Savior, and worship only Him, if we read and obey His Word, we will receive His blessings. However if we run after false gods and philosophies in our life, if we follow our own way rather than His Word, we will reap the curses. What choice will we make? Choose wisely!
Friday, May 29, 2020
Our Lord's Intercessory Prayer
John 17:1-11
Have you ever been present when a fellow Christian brother or sister, one who has a very close relationship with the Lord, has been in prayer? It is a special, hallowed time, listening to their close, holy, and intimate conversation with the Lord. There are several great Christians from the past that I would love to have been present with in their prayer times. In our Scripture reading today the Apostle John shares a privilege that he and the other apostles had, when they were privileged to listen when Jesus was in prayer to the Father. Let’s take a look at just a part of this prayer.
Many times throughout the Gospel accounts we read of when Jesus departed off by Himself to pray to the Father, often either later at night or real early in the morning. This 17th chapter of John’s Gospel contains a prayer of Jesus that He prayed in the presence of His chosen apostles. In Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4 we have what has come to be known as the Lord’s Prayer. However that might better be called the Disciple’s Prayer. John 17 is truly the Lord’s prayer, showing the face to face communion Jesus had with God. This is Jesus’ High Priestly prayer. In the previous three chapters Jesus was talking to, and instructing His disciples. Now He is talking to God. Jesus is at work as our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). He is also our advocate and our mediator (I John 2:1-2; I Timothy 2:5).
Whenever a strategic time approached, Jesus spent time in prayer. Now, within a few short hours, He would be arrested, given a mock trial, tortured, and crucified to pay for our sins. He prayed for God’s glory, for His disciples, and even for future believers, which includes each of us. Jesus stated that “His hour had come” (vs. 1). His time had come - both for His death and resurrection. These were events that would glorify Jesus. He accepted this path to glory, knowing He would be exalted to the Father (vs. 1-5).
In His prayer to the Father, which He has shared with us here, Jesus tells us what brings eternal life (vs. 3). We receive eternal life by knowing God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ, and entering into a personal relationship with Him. That life begins the moment we accept Jesus as Savior, not just after our physical death on earth.
As Jesus continued His prayer, He looked past the cross, and asked to be returned to the glory He shared with the Father before the world began (vs. 5). We read here a testimony that Jesus gave to His pre-existence as God before His physical birth and before creation. Before Jesus came to earth, He was one with God. In His prayer, Jesus asked the Father to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority.
Our passage continues as we read that those who believe in Jesus were given by the Father (vs. 6). They were chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), when our names were written in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 17:8).
As Jesus continued in His prayer, He wanted His followers to be united in harmony and love, just as the Trinity is (vs. 11). He prayed for them (and for us as we read later in verse 20), because they would have to face the world’s temptation and hatred without His immediate physical presence and protection.
The world is a battleground between those who follow and are under God’s authority and Satan’s forces. Jesus prayed for His followers then and throughout all ages to come. His prayers defeat Satan. We need to trust God’s hold on us more than our hold on Him. His faithfulness does not depend on ours. God hears the intercessory prayers of Jesus. We are kept and preserved by Him (Jude 1:1), and shielded by God’s power (I Peter 1:5). That is the power of our living and ever-present Savior, and we can have peace knowing that Jesus is praying for us, just as He did that last night before His crucifixion.
Have you ever been present when a fellow Christian brother or sister, one who has a very close relationship with the Lord, has been in prayer? It is a special, hallowed time, listening to their close, holy, and intimate conversation with the Lord. There are several great Christians from the past that I would love to have been present with in their prayer times. In our Scripture reading today the Apostle John shares a privilege that he and the other apostles had, when they were privileged to listen when Jesus was in prayer to the Father. Let’s take a look at just a part of this prayer.
Many times throughout the Gospel accounts we read of when Jesus departed off by Himself to pray to the Father, often either later at night or real early in the morning. This 17th chapter of John’s Gospel contains a prayer of Jesus that He prayed in the presence of His chosen apostles. In Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4 we have what has come to be known as the Lord’s Prayer. However that might better be called the Disciple’s Prayer. John 17 is truly the Lord’s prayer, showing the face to face communion Jesus had with God. This is Jesus’ High Priestly prayer. In the previous three chapters Jesus was talking to, and instructing His disciples. Now He is talking to God. Jesus is at work as our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). He is also our advocate and our mediator (I John 2:1-2; I Timothy 2:5).
Whenever a strategic time approached, Jesus spent time in prayer. Now, within a few short hours, He would be arrested, given a mock trial, tortured, and crucified to pay for our sins. He prayed for God’s glory, for His disciples, and even for future believers, which includes each of us. Jesus stated that “His hour had come” (vs. 1). His time had come - both for His death and resurrection. These were events that would glorify Jesus. He accepted this path to glory, knowing He would be exalted to the Father (vs. 1-5).
In His prayer to the Father, which He has shared with us here, Jesus tells us what brings eternal life (vs. 3). We receive eternal life by knowing God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ, and entering into a personal relationship with Him. That life begins the moment we accept Jesus as Savior, not just after our physical death on earth.
As Jesus continued His prayer, He looked past the cross, and asked to be returned to the glory He shared with the Father before the world began (vs. 5). We read here a testimony that Jesus gave to His pre-existence as God before His physical birth and before creation. Before Jesus came to earth, He was one with God. In His prayer, Jesus asked the Father to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority.
Our passage continues as we read that those who believe in Jesus were given by the Father (vs. 6). They were chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), when our names were written in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 17:8).
As Jesus continued in His prayer, He wanted His followers to be united in harmony and love, just as the Trinity is (vs. 11). He prayed for them (and for us as we read later in verse 20), because they would have to face the world’s temptation and hatred without His immediate physical presence and protection.
The world is a battleground between those who follow and are under God’s authority and Satan’s forces. Jesus prayed for His followers then and throughout all ages to come. His prayers defeat Satan. We need to trust God’s hold on us more than our hold on Him. His faithfulness does not depend on ours. God hears the intercessory prayers of Jesus. We are kept and preserved by Him (Jude 1:1), and shielded by God’s power (I Peter 1:5). That is the power of our living and ever-present Savior, and we can have peace knowing that Jesus is praying for us, just as He did that last night before His crucifixion.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Persecuted For One's Faith
I Peter 4:12-19
Being persecuted for our faith is something that believers have been enduring since the very first days of the Apostles, and it has never really ended, as persecution is occurring even today in many parts of the world. As we continue in our New Testament readings from Peter’s first letter to believers, we read God’s encouragement for those going through any degree of persecution.
New Christians sometimes wonder why, after they have put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus, problems and trials continue to come, sometimes even with greater intensity. They wonder why they must sometimes suffer persecution. We even find some misguided preachers who imply that after salvation, life will be nothing but sunshine and rosy paths. However, as we read throughout Scripture, and especially in our passage today, trials and persecutions will come. Peter tells us not to think this is something strange (vs. 12). It is something that will happen.
Sometimes we may wonder, that if God loves us, why He doesn’t stop the hardships in our life. God is absolutely wise. He uses adversity to deepen our relationship with Him, and display His glory to the world. God uses painful experiences to cleanse and purify our lives. Trials drive us to the Lord. God uses them to try our faith, endurance, and devotion to Him. They strengthen our faith. Trials also show His power to sustain us, and they strengthen our testimony.
When Peter wrote this epistle, it was at the beginning of what would be over 250 years of intense persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. There are four attitudes that are necessary when there is persecution - We should expect it (vs. 12), we should rejoice in it (vs. 13-14), evaluate its cause (vs. 15-18), and entrust it to God (vs. 19).
A Christian who is persecuted for his faith will have overflowing joy in the future because of his reward (vs. 13). This enables him to also rejoice at the present, though it is definitely not easy. God allows persecution, and designed it for the believer’s testing, purging, and cleansing. When a believer suffers persecution for his faith, God’s presence specifically rests upon him, and lifts him to strength and endurance (vs. 14). Any adversity we experience is temporary because Jesus has given us eternal life. He will ultimately deliver us from persecution, whether on earth, or taking us home to heaven. Our future is secure because it is in His hands.
These words of Peter in our passage today bring to mind Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:11-12. Jesus will send His Spirit to strengthen those who are persecuted for their faith in Him. Sometimes our own unpleasant behavior is the cause of our problems, and it is not because of our faith (vs. 15-16). However, when it truly is because of our Christian faith, Jesus will be with us.
When Peter and James were persecuted because of their faith in Jesus by the Jewish religious leaders, they rejoiced because it was a mark of God’s approval of their work in His Name (Acts 5:41). Insults and rejection because of Jesus means there is evidence of Christ in our lives. Keep on doing right regardless of the suffering it might bring. Obey God when it is difficult, and leave the consequences to Him. He will reward our faithfulness in doing what is right. As believers, we need to commit our souls to Jesus. Deposit them into His hands with trust for safe keeping.
Being persecuted for our faith is something that believers have been enduring since the very first days of the Apostles, and it has never really ended, as persecution is occurring even today in many parts of the world. As we continue in our New Testament readings from Peter’s first letter to believers, we read God’s encouragement for those going through any degree of persecution.
New Christians sometimes wonder why, after they have put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus, problems and trials continue to come, sometimes even with greater intensity. They wonder why they must sometimes suffer persecution. We even find some misguided preachers who imply that after salvation, life will be nothing but sunshine and rosy paths. However, as we read throughout Scripture, and especially in our passage today, trials and persecutions will come. Peter tells us not to think this is something strange (vs. 12). It is something that will happen.
Sometimes we may wonder, that if God loves us, why He doesn’t stop the hardships in our life. God is absolutely wise. He uses adversity to deepen our relationship with Him, and display His glory to the world. God uses painful experiences to cleanse and purify our lives. Trials drive us to the Lord. God uses them to try our faith, endurance, and devotion to Him. They strengthen our faith. Trials also show His power to sustain us, and they strengthen our testimony.
When Peter wrote this epistle, it was at the beginning of what would be over 250 years of intense persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. There are four attitudes that are necessary when there is persecution - We should expect it (vs. 12), we should rejoice in it (vs. 13-14), evaluate its cause (vs. 15-18), and entrust it to God (vs. 19).
A Christian who is persecuted for his faith will have overflowing joy in the future because of his reward (vs. 13). This enables him to also rejoice at the present, though it is definitely not easy. God allows persecution, and designed it for the believer’s testing, purging, and cleansing. When a believer suffers persecution for his faith, God’s presence specifically rests upon him, and lifts him to strength and endurance (vs. 14). Any adversity we experience is temporary because Jesus has given us eternal life. He will ultimately deliver us from persecution, whether on earth, or taking us home to heaven. Our future is secure because it is in His hands.
These words of Peter in our passage today bring to mind Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:11-12. Jesus will send His Spirit to strengthen those who are persecuted for their faith in Him. Sometimes our own unpleasant behavior is the cause of our problems, and it is not because of our faith (vs. 15-16). However, when it truly is because of our Christian faith, Jesus will be with us.
When Peter and James were persecuted because of their faith in Jesus by the Jewish religious leaders, they rejoiced because it was a mark of God’s approval of their work in His Name (Acts 5:41). Insults and rejection because of Jesus means there is evidence of Christ in our lives. Keep on doing right regardless of the suffering it might bring. Obey God when it is difficult, and leave the consequences to Him. He will reward our faithfulness in doing what is right. As believers, we need to commit our souls to Jesus. Deposit them into His hands with trust for safe keeping.
Monday, May 25, 2020
King Of All Creation
Psalm 47
The Christian holy day marking the Ascension of Jesus into heaven was this past Thursday. As the disciples watched, Jesus was taken back up into heaven, where He is seated at God’s right hand, sharing the power and glory that He had with the Father from before all time. Jesus came to earth as a humble servant, and as a sacrifice for our sins. Now He reigns as King over all creation, in power and glory. Today’s short psalm gives us a look at God as our King, with all majesty and all power.
This brief, short psalm is a festive one, celebrating the universal reign of God. He reigns over all the earth, over every nation, and He deserves our worship. As we look around, though, it doesn’t seem that this world is under God’s reign. Since He is King, then that would make us His subjects, and this world would be His realm. However, so many people are in outright rebellion against the King, and many others don’t care one way or the other about Him. God is not a bumbling or inept ruler. In ancient times kings would often go off to war, leaving their kingdom under other’s control. If the people of his kingdom rebelled while the king was away, and word got to him of this rebellion, the king would return in power and might, crushing the rebellion, and bringing everything back under his rule. Jesus knows what is going on, and like a mighty ruler, He will return and bring everything under His power. Jesus described this scenario in several of His parables (Matthew 21:33-44; Matthew 25:14-30), where He told how the Lord, as King and Ruler, will return to resume authority over those who should be under His rule. We see this prophesied to happen throughout the Book of Revelation.
We read here in this psalm, in verse 3, that the Lord God will subdue all people and nations under His feet. This will happen when Jesus returns to earth in the future, perhaps sometime soon. He came to earth the first time humbly, but the second time He comes, it will be with power. At that time, He will sit upon His throne, ruling over all nations (vs. 8). Will we be among those who welcome Jesus’ return, singing His praises (vs. 1, 5-7), or will we be among those who fight against His rule, and must be put under His feet?
In verse 9 we read that all of the shields of the earth belong to God. Shields were very important in battle as protection against the arrows and swords of the enemy. Sometimes they were decorated to show which king and kingdom they were fighting for, just like a flag or banner would. No shield will be able to help when Jesus comes to subdue the nations and people under His rule. Just as the victorious king will claim the flags and shields of his conquered enemies, Jesus will do the same when He returns.
Why should we praise God? There are innumerable reasons we can all think of, and there are a few reasons that our psalmist gives in this passage. One is that God is a great, powerful, and awe-inspiring God (vs. 2). Another reason is that He has redeemed His people, and given them an inheritance (vs. 3-4). Jesus paid the price for our salvation, and redeemed our souls. Those who have become God’s children through the Blood of the Savior will have a wonderful inheritance in His kingdom. A third reason the psalmist gives to praise Him is that His kingship is universal (vs. 7-9). Salvation is open to everyone, regardless of their race or nationality, and God welcomes them into His kingdom. In a spiritual sense, God’s promises to Abraham apply to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their national or ethnic background (Romans 4:11-12; Galatians 3:7-9).
Jesus returned to heaven on the Day of the Ascension, where He is now seated at God’s right hand in power and glory. One day soon He will return to earth and put all creation under His power. Will we be part of those who welcome Him and be a part of His eternal kingdom, or be part of those who continue to rebel and be subdued under His feet.
The Christian holy day marking the Ascension of Jesus into heaven was this past Thursday. As the disciples watched, Jesus was taken back up into heaven, where He is seated at God’s right hand, sharing the power and glory that He had with the Father from before all time. Jesus came to earth as a humble servant, and as a sacrifice for our sins. Now He reigns as King over all creation, in power and glory. Today’s short psalm gives us a look at God as our King, with all majesty and all power.
This brief, short psalm is a festive one, celebrating the universal reign of God. He reigns over all the earth, over every nation, and He deserves our worship. As we look around, though, it doesn’t seem that this world is under God’s reign. Since He is King, then that would make us His subjects, and this world would be His realm. However, so many people are in outright rebellion against the King, and many others don’t care one way or the other about Him. God is not a bumbling or inept ruler. In ancient times kings would often go off to war, leaving their kingdom under other’s control. If the people of his kingdom rebelled while the king was away, and word got to him of this rebellion, the king would return in power and might, crushing the rebellion, and bringing everything back under his rule. Jesus knows what is going on, and like a mighty ruler, He will return and bring everything under His power. Jesus described this scenario in several of His parables (Matthew 21:33-44; Matthew 25:14-30), where He told how the Lord, as King and Ruler, will return to resume authority over those who should be under His rule. We see this prophesied to happen throughout the Book of Revelation.
We read here in this psalm, in verse 3, that the Lord God will subdue all people and nations under His feet. This will happen when Jesus returns to earth in the future, perhaps sometime soon. He came to earth the first time humbly, but the second time He comes, it will be with power. At that time, He will sit upon His throne, ruling over all nations (vs. 8). Will we be among those who welcome Jesus’ return, singing His praises (vs. 1, 5-7), or will we be among those who fight against His rule, and must be put under His feet?
In verse 9 we read that all of the shields of the earth belong to God. Shields were very important in battle as protection against the arrows and swords of the enemy. Sometimes they were decorated to show which king and kingdom they were fighting for, just like a flag or banner would. No shield will be able to help when Jesus comes to subdue the nations and people under His rule. Just as the victorious king will claim the flags and shields of his conquered enemies, Jesus will do the same when He returns.
Why should we praise God? There are innumerable reasons we can all think of, and there are a few reasons that our psalmist gives in this passage. One is that God is a great, powerful, and awe-inspiring God (vs. 2). Another reason is that He has redeemed His people, and given them an inheritance (vs. 3-4). Jesus paid the price for our salvation, and redeemed our souls. Those who have become God’s children through the Blood of the Savior will have a wonderful inheritance in His kingdom. A third reason the psalmist gives to praise Him is that His kingship is universal (vs. 7-9). Salvation is open to everyone, regardless of their race or nationality, and God welcomes them into His kingdom. In a spiritual sense, God’s promises to Abraham apply to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their national or ethnic background (Romans 4:11-12; Galatians 3:7-9).
Jesus returned to heaven on the Day of the Ascension, where He is now seated at God’s right hand in power and glory. One day soon He will return to earth and put all creation under His power. Will we be part of those who welcome Him and be a part of His eternal kingdom, or be part of those who continue to rebel and be subdued under His feet.
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