Nisan 15 - Thursday night/Friday morning & afternoon - A timeline of events:
Night - Jesus prays in the garden. Can you image knowing exactly what is about to happen to you? The pain you will endure in the next 12 hours? The death you will experience? I can't. Jesus was fully God, but He was also fully man. His body and mind were full of anticipation. Yet, His prayer isn't "Please stop this." It is, "Your will be done." Wow, that is resolve! That is determination. That is love. Luke, the doctor, tells us that Jesus prayed so hard and was under such emotional upheaval that He sweat blood. This is an actual documented medical condition known as Hematidrosis caused by extreme anguish. The strain caused one's capillary blood vessels to dilate and burst. Sadly, during this time, the disciples still don't get it, so they take a nap. If they had listened to Jesus and spent time in prayer, they may have been more prepared for what was about to happen.
Jesus is arrested, betrayed by a kiss from Judas. The kiss was a traditional greeting. The disciples freak out a little. Peter actually cuts off the high priest's servant's ear. But Jesus puts a stop to the aggression and heals the man. John tells us his name, Malchus. The disciples all flee. Mark tells us one disciple, many think it was Mark himself, lost his linen cloth in his haste to get away,leaving him naked. Now that's panic.
Jesus is taken to Annas, the former high priest who still wielded power, and Caiaphas, his son, who had assumed the role as current high priest. The council heard the testimony of witnesses, but they couldn't agree. According to Jewish law, the testimony of witnesses was required. However, none of the witnesses could agree, so their testimony could not be used. Then the council began asking questions. Jesus stated, "I AM." This is the name of God. So, Jesus claimed to be God (which He was.) The council considered this blasphemy and condemned Him to die. However, only the Roman government could put someone to death, so Jesus was taken to Pilate, the Roman governor. While they waited, they beat and mocked Jesus. Riot mentality is starting to take over.
Before they leave Peter fulfilled Jesus' words by denying that he was a disciple of Jesus three times. After his third denial, the rooster crowed, Peter remembered Jesus' words, and everything hit home.
Now morning has arrived. It is still Nisan 15. Jesus is taken to Pilate. Pilate listens to the council, asks Jesus a few questions, and determines that there is no reason to put Jesus to death. The council don't like this and demand His death. So, Pilate passes Him off to Herod. Herod was excited to see Jesus. He had heard of Jesus' miracles and wanted to see one for himself. But, Jesus didn't perform for Herod, so Herod sent Him back to Pilate. It is interesting that neither Pilate nor Herod found Jesus guilty of any crime.
Pilate now finds himself between a rock and a hard place. He is impressed by Jesus' character and finds no guilt in Him. Plus Pilate's wife has had a troubling dream about Jesus and tells her husband not to kill Him. On the other side, the Jewish council has whipped the people into a frenzy. They are calling for Jesus to be crucified. Pilate tries one more thing. He offers a choice - Barabas, a robber and murderer, or Jesus. The people cry out to release Barabas and crucify Jesus. So, Pilate, seeing the people are about to riot, washes his hands of it. He gives the people what they want, but he tells them this is their decision. The people take responsibility. They say, "His blood be on us and our children." Whoa - they just symbolically covered themselves with the blood of Jesus. Just like they put the blood of the Passover lamb over their doorposts, symbolically covering their heads. This covering is their salvation, yet they don't realize it.
Jesus is lead away to be scourged. The Roman soldiers then further beat Him, mock Him and crown Him with thorns before leading Him to be crucified. This scourging would have left gaping wounds on His body. In many cases the scourging could be fatal due to the physical trauma of the beating and the amount of blood loss. Remember, Jesus' capillaries are already fragile due to the hematidrosis He experienced while praying. He has now been beaten at least twice and scourged. Then, He is required to carry His cross from inside the city walls to Golgotha. The cross beam would have weighted between 30-40 pounds. Not very light. Scholars believe Golgotha was between .5 and 1 mile away. Imagine being up all night, beaten, scourged, and then told to carry a 30 lb. beam on your skinless back. Obviously Jesus was unable to do so. Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry the cross beam for Him. Once they arrive, Jesus was nailed to the cross and hoisted into the air. A sign was placed on the cross reading, "King of the Jews." The soldiers threw lots (a dice game) for His clothing, the chief priests and Jews mocked Him along with one of the other men hanging on a cross beside Him. However, there were others there who wept and mourned His death. Even on the cross, Jesus offered comfort to those mourning Him, prayed for those mocking Him, and offered salvation to the criminal who believed in Him. The gospels tell us that Jesus hung on the cross for six hours. From the hour three to hour six, darkness filled the land. Jesus then says, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" This is a quote from Psalm 22:1. The verse ends with a cry of victory. He then says, "It is finished" and dies. When He died, the curtain in the temple that separates man from the Holy presence of God is torn from top to bottom symbolizing the removal of the separation between God and man. There was an earthquake, tombs were opened, and saints were resurrected. The centurion in charge was so moved he proclaimed Jesus as the Son of God.
Because it was the preparation day of the High Sabbath - the Sabbath was held every Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown - the bodies needed to come down before sundown. Preparation day was the day everything was prepared or made ready for the Sabbath since people were not to work on the Sabbath. The soldiers were told to break the legs of the men on the cross. Breaking their legs would speed up their death since death by crucifixion was a death of suffocation. The weight on the body prevented the lungs from filling with air unless the person hanging was able to push himself up to breath. Eventually, the person would become so exhausted he could no longer push himself up and he would die of suffocation. By breaking the legs, the person could no longer push himself up, thus causing thim to suffocate faster. However, Jesus was already dead. So, they pierced His side to ensure His death. The mixture of blood and water indicated that Jesus was already dead. This also fulfilled Scripture that none of Jesus' bones would be broken. (Exodus 12:46, Numbers 9:12, Psalm 34:20, Zechariah 12:10). Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy member of the Jewish ruling council who was also a disciple, asked for Jesus' body and placed it in his tomb. Nicodemus, another religious leader, assisted in the burial process. The process was rushed because of the coming Sabbath, so the women prepared additional mixtures for the burial process in preparation of the end of Sabbath when they could go back and properly prepare Jesus' body for burial.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Mathew 26:17-46: Mark 14:12-42; Luke 22:7-46: John 13:1-17:26
Nisan 10 - Day 1 - Jews take a lamb into their home to be examined for blemishes. This lamb will be the Passover sacrifice on Nisan 14. Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey. The people take Him into their hearts as their king.
Nisan 11 - Day 2 - Jesus clears the temple and teaches the people.
Nisan 12 - Day 3 - Jesus is questioned by the religious leaders. They are unable to find fault in Him.
Nisan 13 - Day 4 - Judas betrays Jesus to the religious leaders. Jesus continues to teach in the temple.
Nisan 14 - Day 5 - The disciples prepare for the Passover. The Passover lambs are sacrificed.
Nisan 15 - Day 6 - Jesus eats the Passover, prays in the garden, is arrested, tried, crucified and buried.
The Jewish calendar follows the lunar cycle. Days start at sundown and end at sundown. So, the lambs are sacrificed at twilight on Nisan 14, then the Seder meal is eaten on Nisan 15 after sundown.
The Passover with the Disciples: Matthew, Mark, and Luke give the same account. John extends the account by sharing Jesus' teaching and private conversations with the disciples. It is thought that Mark's gospel was written first, then Matthew's, Luke's and John's. So, John, having read the first three accounts, includes information that the first three didn't.
Nisan 14 - Before Passover, Jesus sends 2 disciples into the city to a certain man. They will prepare the Passover in his large upper room. The disciples follow Jesus' directions.
Nisan 15 - Before the meal, Jesus washes the feet of the disciples. This act was usually performed by the servants. For Jesus, the leader, to wash the feet of the disciples was unheard of. In fact, Peter at first refused. But Jesus washed their feet as an example of servant hood. As Christians we are to serve each other. No one is greater or more important than anyone else. Leaders are to serve their people, just as people are to serve their leaders. We must remember to never think we are above anyone else. Nor should we refuse to get our hands dirty in helping others.
Jesus then tells the disciples that one of them will betray Him. Judas is revealed as the betrayer, but the disciples just don't get it. Once he has been revealed, Judas leaves the meal.
The new commandment - loving one's neighbor was not a new commandment. However, loving one's neighbor in light of the way Jesus loves us is. Jesus died for us. Our love for our neighbor, our willingness to put them first, even to lay down our lives for them, should be the distinguishing mark of a Christian. Oh, how far we have fallen. Christians are not known for love. We are known for judgment. Hmmm . . . perhaps we need to reexamine our actions. Look, Jesus loved people - He loved the woman at the well who was living in adultery, He loved the tax collectors who were ripping people off, He loved the sinners, the drunkards, the outcasts. How about you? Because Jesus loved them, treated them as equals, and had their best interest at heart, they were willing to listen to Him. You can't come at someone pointing out all their wrongs and expect them to listen to anything else you have to say. When you look at someone, remember that Jesus loved you right where you were, He loves you right where you are. He didn't cast you out for your sin, He called you in. If your sins were forgiven, if He gave you a chance even when you were a sinner - can't you do the same for others? That's the new commandment. Show others the love that Christ has shown you. As they come into a relationship with Christ, He will show them the areas that need to change, just like He did for you.
Peter declares his willingness to follow Jesus wherever He goes. Yet, Jesus knows Peter's heart, knows what is coming and warns Peter about it. Peter is rash and spontaneous, he still has some maturing to do. So, is this loving? Yes. Jesus and Peter have a close relationship built on honesty. Loving someone means that you treat them with compassionate honesty. Sometimes we think it's all other nothing. I can love or I can judge. We don't realize that honesty isn't judging. So, as you love people and form relationships, you need to be honest about who you are and you need to be honest about what you see. However, this honesty isn't about condemnation, but about concern. If your friend is about to make a decision that will cause harm - for themselves or others - you need to let them know.
Jesus then prepares the disciples for His death. Once He is gone, they will need to continue the ministry, so He gives them practical advice for any Christian:
1) Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. If you truly believe that, then you will listen to what He tells you. You will follow His ways. If you love Jesus, you will keep His commandments because you know that they are in place for your own good. Your actions will reflect your relationship.
2) Praying in Jesus' name doesn't mean ending your prayer with the name "Jesus." It means praying in a way consistent with Jesus' character and will. I like what my study Bible says, "Effective prayer must ask for and desire what Jesus delights in." So, praying that your enemy will fail or for material abundance or selfish gain probably isn't going to help you no matter how many times you say His name in that prayer.
3) Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us while He is away. He will teach us, help us remember Jesus' words, and bring us peace.
4) Stay hooked in with Jesus. Jesus is our foundation, He is our life. Just like a branch must stay connected to the plant, we must stay connected to Jesus. A healthy branch is receiving everything it needs from the plant and it will bear fruit. An unhealthy branch has become disconnected somehow and withers and dies. To keep the plant healthy, that branch must be cut off.
5) Just as Jesus was persecuted, so will His followers be persecuted. Look, the world is based on selfish ambition, greed, lust, and power. Christians are called to be the opposite of those traits and the world simply cannot take it. Our peace and love make the world squirm. The world doesn't like to be reminded of what it's lacking. It doesn't want to face the fact that it is empty and shallow. So it attempts to destroy us. To push us aside, to shut us up - then it doesn't need to face reality. But stay strong. Jesus overcame the world and through Him, we will too.
6) Jesus is leaving them, but He is coming back. For three days, Jesus lay in the tomb. The disciples thought it was over. But on the third day He rose & they were filled with joy. This joy sustained them through all that was to come because they knew without a doubt that Jesus overcame the world. With His help, with His helper, they would too.
The meal is finished and the last two cups of the Seder are drank. During this time, Jesus institutes Communion. It is believed this happened during the third cup of Passover, the cup of redemption. When we drink this cup we are to remember that Jesus' blood redeemed us from death.
Jesus then prays for the disciples and they head out for the Garden of Gethsemane.
Nisan 11 - Day 2 - Jesus clears the temple and teaches the people.
Nisan 12 - Day 3 - Jesus is questioned by the religious leaders. They are unable to find fault in Him.
Nisan 13 - Day 4 - Judas betrays Jesus to the religious leaders. Jesus continues to teach in the temple.
Nisan 14 - Day 5 - The disciples prepare for the Passover. The Passover lambs are sacrificed.
Nisan 15 - Day 6 - Jesus eats the Passover, prays in the garden, is arrested, tried, crucified and buried.
The Jewish calendar follows the lunar cycle. Days start at sundown and end at sundown. So, the lambs are sacrificed at twilight on Nisan 14, then the Seder meal is eaten on Nisan 15 after sundown.
The Passover with the Disciples: Matthew, Mark, and Luke give the same account. John extends the account by sharing Jesus' teaching and private conversations with the disciples. It is thought that Mark's gospel was written first, then Matthew's, Luke's and John's. So, John, having read the first three accounts, includes information that the first three didn't.
Nisan 14 - Before Passover, Jesus sends 2 disciples into the city to a certain man. They will prepare the Passover in his large upper room. The disciples follow Jesus' directions.
Nisan 15 - Before the meal, Jesus washes the feet of the disciples. This act was usually performed by the servants. For Jesus, the leader, to wash the feet of the disciples was unheard of. In fact, Peter at first refused. But Jesus washed their feet as an example of servant hood. As Christians we are to serve each other. No one is greater or more important than anyone else. Leaders are to serve their people, just as people are to serve their leaders. We must remember to never think we are above anyone else. Nor should we refuse to get our hands dirty in helping others.
Jesus then tells the disciples that one of them will betray Him. Judas is revealed as the betrayer, but the disciples just don't get it. Once he has been revealed, Judas leaves the meal.
The new commandment - loving one's neighbor was not a new commandment. However, loving one's neighbor in light of the way Jesus loves us is. Jesus died for us. Our love for our neighbor, our willingness to put them first, even to lay down our lives for them, should be the distinguishing mark of a Christian. Oh, how far we have fallen. Christians are not known for love. We are known for judgment. Hmmm . . . perhaps we need to reexamine our actions. Look, Jesus loved people - He loved the woman at the well who was living in adultery, He loved the tax collectors who were ripping people off, He loved the sinners, the drunkards, the outcasts. How about you? Because Jesus loved them, treated them as equals, and had their best interest at heart, they were willing to listen to Him. You can't come at someone pointing out all their wrongs and expect them to listen to anything else you have to say. When you look at someone, remember that Jesus loved you right where you were, He loves you right where you are. He didn't cast you out for your sin, He called you in. If your sins were forgiven, if He gave you a chance even when you were a sinner - can't you do the same for others? That's the new commandment. Show others the love that Christ has shown you. As they come into a relationship with Christ, He will show them the areas that need to change, just like He did for you.
Peter declares his willingness to follow Jesus wherever He goes. Yet, Jesus knows Peter's heart, knows what is coming and warns Peter about it. Peter is rash and spontaneous, he still has some maturing to do. So, is this loving? Yes. Jesus and Peter have a close relationship built on honesty. Loving someone means that you treat them with compassionate honesty. Sometimes we think it's all other nothing. I can love or I can judge. We don't realize that honesty isn't judging. So, as you love people and form relationships, you need to be honest about who you are and you need to be honest about what you see. However, this honesty isn't about condemnation, but about concern. If your friend is about to make a decision that will cause harm - for themselves or others - you need to let them know.
Jesus then prepares the disciples for His death. Once He is gone, they will need to continue the ministry, so He gives them practical advice for any Christian:
1) Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. If you truly believe that, then you will listen to what He tells you. You will follow His ways. If you love Jesus, you will keep His commandments because you know that they are in place for your own good. Your actions will reflect your relationship.
2) Praying in Jesus' name doesn't mean ending your prayer with the name "Jesus." It means praying in a way consistent with Jesus' character and will. I like what my study Bible says, "Effective prayer must ask for and desire what Jesus delights in." So, praying that your enemy will fail or for material abundance or selfish gain probably isn't going to help you no matter how many times you say His name in that prayer.
3) Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us while He is away. He will teach us, help us remember Jesus' words, and bring us peace.
4) Stay hooked in with Jesus. Jesus is our foundation, He is our life. Just like a branch must stay connected to the plant, we must stay connected to Jesus. A healthy branch is receiving everything it needs from the plant and it will bear fruit. An unhealthy branch has become disconnected somehow and withers and dies. To keep the plant healthy, that branch must be cut off.
5) Just as Jesus was persecuted, so will His followers be persecuted. Look, the world is based on selfish ambition, greed, lust, and power. Christians are called to be the opposite of those traits and the world simply cannot take it. Our peace and love make the world squirm. The world doesn't like to be reminded of what it's lacking. It doesn't want to face the fact that it is empty and shallow. So it attempts to destroy us. To push us aside, to shut us up - then it doesn't need to face reality. But stay strong. Jesus overcame the world and through Him, we will too.
6) Jesus is leaving them, but He is coming back. For three days, Jesus lay in the tomb. The disciples thought it was over. But on the third day He rose & they were filled with joy. This joy sustained them through all that was to come because they knew without a doubt that Jesus overcame the world. With His help, with His helper, they would too.
The meal is finished and the last two cups of the Seder are drank. During this time, Jesus institutes Communion. It is believed this happened during the third cup of Passover, the cup of redemption. When we drink this cup we are to remember that Jesus' blood redeemed us from death.
Jesus then prays for the disciples and they head out for the Garden of Gethsemane.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Matthew 26:3-5, 14-19; Mark 14:1-2, 10-26; Luke 21:37-22:13
Plot to Kill Jesus - Watch this timeline! Passover is in 2 days, so this is Nisan 12. The lamb is taken into the household on Nisan 10. It is kept until Nisan 14 at twilight, at which time it is sacrificed. The Passover dinner is eaten on Nisan 15. Remember, Jewish days run sundown - sundown. So the lamb is sacrificed on Nisan 14 at twilight, as the sun is going down. At sundown, it is Nisan 15, the lamb is being cooked and dinner is being prepared. The religious leaders are actively plotting Jesus' death; however, they state that they need to sacrifice Jesus BEFORE the Passover feast so as not to incite the crowd.
Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9 - this account is listed thematically to show that Jesus was anointed for burial. However, these events happened on Nisan 9 according to the Chronological account in John.
Judas Betrays Jesus: Judas goes to the chief priests and agrees to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. This amount equates to 4 months labor or about $7,500. A pretty meager sum amount of money for a life. Luke states that Satan entered Judas. Does this mean that Judas is innocent of his actions? No. Satan can only enter us if we let him. He can only influence us if we are willing to listen. Judas never believed in Jesus. We learned in John that Judas was stealing money from the ministry. He was always out for himself.
Tomorrow we will read about the Last Supper.
Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9 - this account is listed thematically to show that Jesus was anointed for burial. However, these events happened on Nisan 9 according to the Chronological account in John.
Judas Betrays Jesus: Judas goes to the chief priests and agrees to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. This amount equates to 4 months labor or about $7,500. A pretty meager sum amount of money for a life. Luke states that Satan entered Judas. Does this mean that Judas is innocent of his actions? No. Satan can only enter us if we let him. He can only influence us if we are willing to listen. Judas never believed in Jesus. We learned in John that Judas was stealing money from the ministry. He was always out for himself.
Tomorrow we will read about the Last Supper.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Finishing up from this morning - Matthew 22:23-25:46; Mark 12:18-13:37; Luke 20:27-21:36
Sadducees Ask About the Resurrection - The Sadducees don't believe in resurrection, so they are trying to trip up Jesus here by making the assumption that resurrection life is like present life. However, once again, Jesus answers calmly and with great wisdom. The resurrected life is not like life here on earth, so the question of marriage doesn't come into play. He then tells the Sadducees that they don't know their Scripture. If they did, they would understand this concept. How about you? Do you need a little more Scripture to set you straight? Read it!
Greatest Commandment - These are not new words, nor are they new commandments. The first is part of the Shema, a prayer spoken twice a day by faithful Jews. This command is found in Deuteronomy 6:5. These men would have been very familiar with the Scripture, but rote recitation more than likely erased the meaning. Think about it. How ofter have you said the Lord's prayer? Do you pay attention to the words? The meaning behind them? Or is it something you just say? Pay attention! The second commandment, "love your neighbor as yourself" comes from Leviticus 18:18, 34. So, what does God "rate" as most important? 1) Love God, 2) Love others. Whoa! It's not obedience, it's not rules, it's not power or wealth or status. It's relationship.
Jesus presents a question - The Psalm quoted here is one of the most important Messianic texts and the most quoted in the New Testament. It states that the Messiah isn't just the political descendant of David, He is the Son of God. The religious leaders understood this Scripture and it shut them up. They didn't dare ask anymore questions for fear of hearing something they didn't want to believe.
Luke provides a short event here - the widow's offering. It's not about how much you give. It's about what it means to you. What is your motivation? Are you giving because you want to serve God and further His kingdom? Or are you giving so others will see how great you are?
Seven woes to the Scribes and Pharisees - These religious leaders, the ones charges with leading the people in true worship and relationship with God, have fallen down on the job. They talk the talk, but they don't walk the walk. Their entire life is about making themselves look good. They feed on selfish ambition. Not only are these men hypocrites, they are inhibiting the faith of those they lead. Rather than take this word to heart, to examine their choices and make changes, to come to true faith and repentance, they continue to plot His death and incur God's wrath. Jesus then laments over the nation of Jerusalem. The temple will be destroyed and He will not return to them until they are ready to receive Him.
Signs of the End of the Age - Later, the disciples want to know when this will all happen. Jesus tells them that three things will happen first - suffering throughout the world, suffering of the disciples, the preaching of the gospel throughout the world. The Abomination of Desolation is two-fold. Rome will destroy the temple (fulfilled in A.D. 70) and the image of the antichrist being set up in the last days. When this happens, there will be no time to collect provisions and times will be horrific, but fear not, for God will cut this time short. However, don't be fooled by false christs. Jesus' return will be preceded by darkness, the stars will fall, the earth will shake - then a sign will be see by everyone followed by trumpets! There will be no doubt that Jesus is coming. So, if you're left wondering, "Is this Jesus?" it's not the second coming. So, when you see these things start to happen, get ready. How about I just say, get ready. The world is in turmoil, nature is taking a turn for the worst, and the gospel is making it's way around the globe. Jesus could return tomorrow or a hundred years from now. Stay alert, pay attention, read your Bible, and pray. But don't worry, God's got your back. You are still to invest in life. That's what the parable of the talents is about. Yes, Jesus is coming, but until then share His message and His love with others.
The Final Judgment - When Jesus returns, we will all be judged. Those who followed those two commandments - love God, love others (see, it's all about relationship) will be commended. Those that took care of numero uno (selfish-ambition, no relationship) will be cast out. Now does this mean it's all about works? Nope. Absolutely not. It means, when you believe that God is God, that He has your best interest at heart, you will form a relationship with Him and that relationship (built on love, forgiveness, compassion, understanding) will flow into your life. If you ignore God and reject a relationship with Him, well you will struggle in your relationship with others. What you believe in your heart will be expressed in your actions. So reject God now & He will let you reject Him forever. Get to know God now & you will know Him forever.
Greatest Commandment - These are not new words, nor are they new commandments. The first is part of the Shema, a prayer spoken twice a day by faithful Jews. This command is found in Deuteronomy 6:5. These men would have been very familiar with the Scripture, but rote recitation more than likely erased the meaning. Think about it. How ofter have you said the Lord's prayer? Do you pay attention to the words? The meaning behind them? Or is it something you just say? Pay attention! The second commandment, "love your neighbor as yourself" comes from Leviticus 18:18, 34. So, what does God "rate" as most important? 1) Love God, 2) Love others. Whoa! It's not obedience, it's not rules, it's not power or wealth or status. It's relationship.
Jesus presents a question - The Psalm quoted here is one of the most important Messianic texts and the most quoted in the New Testament. It states that the Messiah isn't just the political descendant of David, He is the Son of God. The religious leaders understood this Scripture and it shut them up. They didn't dare ask anymore questions for fear of hearing something they didn't want to believe.
Luke provides a short event here - the widow's offering. It's not about how much you give. It's about what it means to you. What is your motivation? Are you giving because you want to serve God and further His kingdom? Or are you giving so others will see how great you are?
Seven woes to the Scribes and Pharisees - These religious leaders, the ones charges with leading the people in true worship and relationship with God, have fallen down on the job. They talk the talk, but they don't walk the walk. Their entire life is about making themselves look good. They feed on selfish ambition. Not only are these men hypocrites, they are inhibiting the faith of those they lead. Rather than take this word to heart, to examine their choices and make changes, to come to true faith and repentance, they continue to plot His death and incur God's wrath. Jesus then laments over the nation of Jerusalem. The temple will be destroyed and He will not return to them until they are ready to receive Him.
Signs of the End of the Age - Later, the disciples want to know when this will all happen. Jesus tells them that three things will happen first - suffering throughout the world, suffering of the disciples, the preaching of the gospel throughout the world. The Abomination of Desolation is two-fold. Rome will destroy the temple (fulfilled in A.D. 70) and the image of the antichrist being set up in the last days. When this happens, there will be no time to collect provisions and times will be horrific, but fear not, for God will cut this time short. However, don't be fooled by false christs. Jesus' return will be preceded by darkness, the stars will fall, the earth will shake - then a sign will be see by everyone followed by trumpets! There will be no doubt that Jesus is coming. So, if you're left wondering, "Is this Jesus?" it's not the second coming. So, when you see these things start to happen, get ready. How about I just say, get ready. The world is in turmoil, nature is taking a turn for the worst, and the gospel is making it's way around the globe. Jesus could return tomorrow or a hundred years from now. Stay alert, pay attention, read your Bible, and pray. But don't worry, God's got your back. You are still to invest in life. That's what the parable of the talents is about. Yes, Jesus is coming, but until then share His message and His love with others.
The Final Judgment - When Jesus returns, we will all be judged. Those who followed those two commandments - love God, love others (see, it's all about relationship) will be commended. Those that took care of numero uno (selfish-ambition, no relationship) will be cast out. Now does this mean it's all about works? Nope. Absolutely not. It means, when you believe that God is God, that He has your best interest at heart, you will form a relationship with Him and that relationship (built on love, forgiveness, compassion, understanding) will flow into your life. If you ignore God and reject a relationship with Him, well you will struggle in your relationship with others. What you believe in your heart will be expressed in your actions. So reject God now & He will let you reject Him forever. Get to know God now & you will know Him forever.
Matthew 21:20-25:46; Mark 11:19-13:37; Luke 209:1-21:36
Day One - Sunday - Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, took a quick tour of the temple, and went back to Bethany.
Day Two - Monday - Jesus returns to Jerusalem. He curses a fig tree for producing no fruit on his way. Once in Jerusalem, Jesus clears the temple of it's commerce and teaches the people that the temple is a place of worship. A "place of prayer."
Day Three - Tuesday - Lots to read today as Jesus spent the day teaching in the Temple. I'm going to break it up by chapter, so there will be a few posts.
Fig Tree - As Jesus and the disciples walk back into Jerusalem, the disciples see the fig tree that Jesus cursed the previous morning withered and they are amazed. I want to say, "Really?" Don't you get it by now? Jesus has healed every sort of disorder, cast out demons, walked on water, miraculously fed thousands of people, and raised the dead & you're still shocked? It shows how blind we really are, doesn't it? Anyway, Jesus tells them that with faith you can move mountains. He has told them this before. It means that with God anything is possible. The Gospel of Mark adds that you need to also forgive others. For as you forgive, you will also be forgiven. Hmmmm . . . so God will forgive as I have forgiven? Yep.
Authority of Jesus Challenged - Yesterday, Jesus cleared the temple, wiping out a nice little business the chief priests had going. So, they ask Him by who's authority He did this? By who's authority is He teaching? By who's authority is He healing. Jesus, as so often is the case, answers with His own question. Basically, He's asking this question to point out their deception and lies. See, they know the answer, but they don't want to acknowledge the truth. However, they know if they lie, the people will lose revolt. They put themselves between a rock and a hard place and refuse to answer this simple question. Therefore, Jesus does not answer theirs. Now take a minute and think about your own questions of God. Your own attitude with Him. Are you refusing to believe? Asking foolish questions to get your way? Do you refuse to acknowledge the truth because to do so would mean you will need to make some changes in your life?
Jesus now tells three parables to show God's judgment on the leaders for refusing to acknowledge the Messiah:
The Parable of the Two Sons - Those who answer the call will enter the kingdom of Heaven, not those who only pretend to hear it.
The Parable of the Tenants - The religious leaders are the tenants of God's vineyard. They are called to tend the earth and take care of God's people. But somewhere along the line, they got greedy. They didn't want to listen to God anymore. They beat His prophets and killed His Son. They rejected His authority. So, He took the vineyard away from them and gave it to the world. The prophecy found in Psalm 118:22, 23 tells us that Jesus will be rejected by the religious leaders, but God will make Him the cornerstone, the essential piece, in His church. To his is the only parable Mark & Luke list. However, Matthew is writing his gospel to the Jewish nation, so he focuses much more on Jesus' teachings. Whereas Mark is writing to show Jesus' power, authority, and Messiahship; and Luke is giving a overview of Jesus' ministry.
The Parable of the Wedding Feast - The religious leader's refused to come and celebrate the arrival of the Messiah. In fact, they rejected Him. So, God opened up the celebration to everyone. However, those who come without faith are no better than those who refused to come. They will not get to inherit eternal life without faith. This is what is meant by the wedding cloths. Many will follow Jesus around and learn a little about Him, but they will never truly believe that He is the Son of God.
Paying Taxes to Caesar - I love that the Pharisees attempt to flatter Jesus with worthless words, "You don't care about opinions, You aren't swayed by appearances." Jesus knows who He is & if He truly isn't swayed, then you don't need to butter Him up to ask your questions. But once again, they are simply trying to trap Him into saying something they can use against Him. Don't be fooled by flattery - stay true to the truth. The Herodians where a loosely organized Jewish group that sought to advance the political and economic influence of the Herodian family, so this political question would have been rather important to them - kind of like a up and coming politican who is making campaign promised in order to win the people's loyalty. "You don't like taxes? Well, I will cut your taxes." The people of Jerusalem were taxed twice- once by the temple, and once by the Roman government. I look at it like us being taxed both by the State and Federally. However, these people truly resented paying taxes to the Roman government. (sound familiar? I know many of us don't like paying taxes, nor do we like how they are spent.) Jesus says something pretty incredible - the coinage has been given to them by Rome. It has Rome's likeness on it. Therefore, they need to follow Rome's rules in dealing with it. Yikes. Currency is issued by the government you live under. They get to make the rules regarding it & you, as a member of that society, must follow them. Plain and simple.
We will continue this reading tonight -
Monday, March 25, 2013
Matthew 21:18-19, 12-13, 20-22; Mark 11:12-19; Luke 19:45-46
The Passion Week - Day 2 & 3 -
As we read through the events of the Passion week, you will notice some interesting timeline issues. Does this mean the disciples are wrong? No. Once again, it has to deal with personality. Matthew treats subjects topically rather than chronologically. Mark, Luke, and John follow a more chronological telling. When we put the four gospels together, we get a true guideline.
Day One - Sunday - Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, took a quick tour of the temple, and went back to Bethany.
Day Two - Monday
Cursing the Fig Tree -
On the way from Bethany to Jerusalem, Jesus is hungry, but the fig tree He looks to for food has none. Why curse a tree? Well, this is symbolic. The tree appears healthy, it has leaves and blossoms, it should have fruit. The tree is like a religious person who gives the appearance of a healthy faith but in reality they have no relationship with God. These people are hypocrites - they talk the talk, but they don't walk the walk. They have no idea what faith is really about.
Clearing the Temple -
Jesus entered the temple & cleared it out. The temple - God's House of Worship - had been turned into a market. See, the only place to offer a sacrifice to God was at the Jerusalem temple. That was it. People traveled to Jerusalem a minimum of three times a year to offer sacrifices. Once they arrived at the temple, their sacrifices would be examined to ensure they were blemish-free. If it was confirmed a pure offering by the priest, well then, it couldn't be offered. However, a person had just traveled all this way & offerings were part of the required worship of God, so a person could purchase a "worthy" offering at the temple market. They could also exchange their government's currency for temple currency. The issue was these poor people were being ripped off. Prices were set extremely high, currency exchange rates were unfair, and gentiles - who were only allowed in the outer courts - were being cut off from worship. Mark tells us that Jesus didn't just throw things around. Yes, He made a statement. But He also taught the people why He was acting in such a manner. He was restoring the temple to true worship of God. Of course the religious leaders, who were profiting from this market, became more indignant and further sought ways to get rid of Jesus. After the cleansing of the Temple and time teaching, Jesus returned to His lodging in Bethany.
As we read through the events of the Passion week, you will notice some interesting timeline issues. Does this mean the disciples are wrong? No. Once again, it has to deal with personality. Matthew treats subjects topically rather than chronologically. Mark, Luke, and John follow a more chronological telling. When we put the four gospels together, we get a true guideline.
Day One - Sunday - Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, took a quick tour of the temple, and went back to Bethany.
Day Two - Monday
Cursing the Fig Tree -
On the way from Bethany to Jerusalem, Jesus is hungry, but the fig tree He looks to for food has none. Why curse a tree? Well, this is symbolic. The tree appears healthy, it has leaves and blossoms, it should have fruit. The tree is like a religious person who gives the appearance of a healthy faith but in reality they have no relationship with God. These people are hypocrites - they talk the talk, but they don't walk the walk. They have no idea what faith is really about.
Clearing the Temple -
Jesus entered the temple & cleared it out. The temple - God's House of Worship - had been turned into a market. See, the only place to offer a sacrifice to God was at the Jerusalem temple. That was it. People traveled to Jerusalem a minimum of three times a year to offer sacrifices. Once they arrived at the temple, their sacrifices would be examined to ensure they were blemish-free. If it was confirmed a pure offering by the priest, well then, it couldn't be offered. However, a person had just traveled all this way & offerings were part of the required worship of God, so a person could purchase a "worthy" offering at the temple market. They could also exchange their government's currency for temple currency. The issue was these poor people were being ripped off. Prices were set extremely high, currency exchange rates were unfair, and gentiles - who were only allowed in the outer courts - were being cut off from worship. Mark tells us that Jesus didn't just throw things around. Yes, He made a statement. But He also taught the people why He was acting in such a manner. He was restoring the temple to true worship of God. Of course the religious leaders, who were profiting from this market, became more indignant and further sought ways to get rid of Jesus. After the cleansing of the Temple and time teaching, Jesus returned to His lodging in Bethany.
Saturday, March 23, 2013
John 12:1-36; Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-10; Luke 19:28-40
We now come to the Passion Week and the events leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus. We will read the events in the order they unfolded - day by day. Today, we will discuss Nisan 9 & 10. Nisan is the Jewish month in which Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread take place. Exodus 12 lays the foundation for these events. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.
John 12:1-8: Jesus is once again in the home of Lazarus in Bethany. Bethany is about 2 miles East of Jerusalem. It is a good place to stay when one wants a quiet place to stay within walking distance of that great city. John tells us it is six days before the Passover. We know that the Passover lamb is slaughtered on the 14th day of Nisan, the meal is eaten on the 15th day of Nisan. The Jewish calendar day runs sundown to sundown, while our calendar day runs 12am-12am. Both are 24 hours long. However, keep in mind that each new day in these events actually begins when the sun goes down. Getting back to the story, it is six days before Passover or Nisan 9th. One more quick thing - Passover is a pilgrim feast, meaning every Jewish male was required to travel to Jerusalem for the feast. Now, back to the reading: Jesus is at Lazaras' home. Mary and Martha, Lazarus' sisters are there. Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume. (Matthew 26:7 & Mark 14:3 also mention this event. They state Mary also anointed His head.) This was a very personal act of humility and devotion. Jesus was being honored. Judas Iscariot was not so impressed. He was the treasurer of the group and apparently stealing money. He talked the talk, but never walked the true walk of a disciple. It seems like Judas was out for numero uno. Jesus rebuked Judas' whining. As always, Jesus knows what's going on. Take that to heart! He knew what was going on then, and He knows what is going on now.
- Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-10, Luke 19:28-40: these three gospels give a few more details. They let us know that Jesus sent two disciples to get a donkey. Matthew tells us that the whole city was aware of these events. Mark tells us that Jesus went to the Temple and had a look around, but it was late, so He returned to Bethany for the evening. Luke lets us know that the Pharisees asked Jesus to stop the people from praising Him. Once again, witnesses will have different accounts of the same events. People remember what was important to them. We all see things in different ways, but you will notice the key points of the story are the same. It's the little details that differ.
John 12:9-11 - The chief priests are being to plot how they will do away with not only Jesus, but also those that are proof of Jesus' power. Once again, it's not that they don't believe He has power, they simply are concerned that in light of this power, their own power is dwindling. Yikes. Don't get caught up in what you have of this world. It is all going to be dust or a distant memory someday. Nothing on this world lasts. Oh, but eternal life. Now that lasts forever. That's where your focus should be.
Luke 12:12-19 - We arrive at Nisan 10. Exodus tells us this is the day that Jewish families are to select a perfect lamb and bring it into their homes. That lamb lives with them for the next four days, until it becomes the Passover Lamb. So, on this day, when the people take the lamb into their homes, they take Jesus into their hearts. If you read the Old Testament, you will notice that the focus is in corporate worship - the people as a nation. As you read the New Testament, you will note that focus on corporate worship shifts to a focus on personal worship. A family takes a lamb into their home (corporate), an individual takes Jesus into his/her heart (personal). Gives you goosebumps, doesn't it? Jesus riding a donkey rather than a horse fulfills the prophecy in Genesis 49:10-11 and Zechariah 9:9. Why a donkey? Well, a king riding into another's kingdom (Jesus coming into Rome-controlled Jerusalem) on a horse symbolizes war, but a king riding into another's kingdom on a donkey symbolizes peace. The people cut down palm branches, symbolizing their acceptance of Him as their king. However, they were still under the impression that Jesus was a political leader, not a spiritual one. These actions further spur on the Pharisees' determination to get rid of Jesus.
Luke 12:20-26 - Gentiles (Greeks) ask to see Jesus. His response? He must first die before He can reach out to the Gentiles. At that point, anyone who serves Him will be accepted.
Luke 12:27-36 - Jesus continues speaking, acknowledging that He is "stirred up, unsettled." He knows what is coming. God speaks to Him and all hear, yet they still misunderstand. Jesus once again predicts His death and the coming salvation that this death and resurrection will make available, not only to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles. He urges the people to believe.
We will be celebrating Palm Sunday in our churches tomorrow morning. I have 120 palm fronds in my car as we speak, just waiting to be handed out. I love sitting in church watching those fronds wave through the air in worship of Jesus. This coming week, take some extra time to truly remember His sacrifice. Finds ways to worship Him. Then, make it a habit!
John 12:1-8: Jesus is once again in the home of Lazarus in Bethany. Bethany is about 2 miles East of Jerusalem. It is a good place to stay when one wants a quiet place to stay within walking distance of that great city. John tells us it is six days before the Passover. We know that the Passover lamb is slaughtered on the 14th day of Nisan, the meal is eaten on the 15th day of Nisan. The Jewish calendar day runs sundown to sundown, while our calendar day runs 12am-12am. Both are 24 hours long. However, keep in mind that each new day in these events actually begins when the sun goes down. Getting back to the story, it is six days before Passover or Nisan 9th. One more quick thing - Passover is a pilgrim feast, meaning every Jewish male was required to travel to Jerusalem for the feast. Now, back to the reading: Jesus is at Lazaras' home. Mary and Martha, Lazarus' sisters are there. Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume. (Matthew 26:7 & Mark 14:3 also mention this event. They state Mary also anointed His head.) This was a very personal act of humility and devotion. Jesus was being honored. Judas Iscariot was not so impressed. He was the treasurer of the group and apparently stealing money. He talked the talk, but never walked the true walk of a disciple. It seems like Judas was out for numero uno. Jesus rebuked Judas' whining. As always, Jesus knows what's going on. Take that to heart! He knew what was going on then, and He knows what is going on now.
- Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-10, Luke 19:28-40: these three gospels give a few more details. They let us know that Jesus sent two disciples to get a donkey. Matthew tells us that the whole city was aware of these events. Mark tells us that Jesus went to the Temple and had a look around, but it was late, so He returned to Bethany for the evening. Luke lets us know that the Pharisees asked Jesus to stop the people from praising Him. Once again, witnesses will have different accounts of the same events. People remember what was important to them. We all see things in different ways, but you will notice the key points of the story are the same. It's the little details that differ.
John 12:9-11 - The chief priests are being to plot how they will do away with not only Jesus, but also those that are proof of Jesus' power. Once again, it's not that they don't believe He has power, they simply are concerned that in light of this power, their own power is dwindling. Yikes. Don't get caught up in what you have of this world. It is all going to be dust or a distant memory someday. Nothing on this world lasts. Oh, but eternal life. Now that lasts forever. That's where your focus should be.
Luke 12:12-19 - We arrive at Nisan 10. Exodus tells us this is the day that Jewish families are to select a perfect lamb and bring it into their homes. That lamb lives with them for the next four days, until it becomes the Passover Lamb. So, on this day, when the people take the lamb into their homes, they take Jesus into their hearts. If you read the Old Testament, you will notice that the focus is in corporate worship - the people as a nation. As you read the New Testament, you will note that focus on corporate worship shifts to a focus on personal worship. A family takes a lamb into their home (corporate), an individual takes Jesus into his/her heart (personal). Gives you goosebumps, doesn't it? Jesus riding a donkey rather than a horse fulfills the prophecy in Genesis 49:10-11 and Zechariah 9:9. Why a donkey? Well, a king riding into another's kingdom (Jesus coming into Rome-controlled Jerusalem) on a horse symbolizes war, but a king riding into another's kingdom on a donkey symbolizes peace. The people cut down palm branches, symbolizing their acceptance of Him as their king. However, they were still under the impression that Jesus was a political leader, not a spiritual one. These actions further spur on the Pharisees' determination to get rid of Jesus.
Luke 12:20-26 - Gentiles (Greeks) ask to see Jesus. His response? He must first die before He can reach out to the Gentiles. At that point, anyone who serves Him will be accepted.
Luke 12:27-36 - Jesus continues speaking, acknowledging that He is "stirred up, unsettled." He knows what is coming. God speaks to Him and all hear, yet they still misunderstand. Jesus once again predicts His death and the coming salvation that this death and resurrection will make available, not only to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles. He urges the people to believe.
We will be celebrating Palm Sunday in our churches tomorrow morning. I have 120 palm fronds in my car as we speak, just waiting to be handed out. I love sitting in church watching those fronds wave through the air in worship of Jesus. This coming week, take some extra time to truly remember His sacrifice. Finds ways to worship Him. Then, make it a habit!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Mark 10:1-52; Matthew 19:1-20:34
I had no internet yesterday morning, so I saved my blog to my computer. Today, I will add the Matthew verses (in red) below the Mark verses.
Vs. 1-12 - Divorce - God intended marriage to be a permanent relationship. Sure, these relationships get hard sometimes, but if you enter a marriage with the understanding that you are in it "for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness & health" then you are more willing to work out your issues and keep open lines of communication. The Pharisees wanted to expose Jesus as an opponent of Moses' law. However, once again, Jesus demonstrates that He understands the law much better than the religious leaders. Divorce was never part of God's original plan. It was provided for in Moses' law because of the hardenend hearts of man. Does this mean you need to stay in an abusive relationship? Absolutely not. It simply means that you need to approach marriage as a sacred union. Divorce should only be used for extreme cases.
Matthew 19:1-12 - Matthew adds that one may also divorce for sexual immorality. A spouse who sexually betrays his/her partner has broken the covenant of marriage. However, many couples are able to work through these issues and develop a happy relationship.
Vs. 13-16 - The disciples saw children as an annoying distraction. Jesus treated children with love and compassion. Their faith - that innocence and trust - is a characteristic that we adults need to adopt. Don't let the world harden your heart!
Matthew 19:13-15: nothing to add
Vs. 17-31 - A rich young man asks Jesus what he must do to earn eternal life. For this young man, it's all about being good enough. Can he work for it? Pay for it? Jesus tells him to give up his wealth & the young man walks away. If it's not about what you do, why would Jesus tell us this? It is because this man's wealth blocked his faith. He was self-sufficient and independent from God. He isn't looking for a relationship, he just wants an assurance. I like the last verse in this section, "But many who are first will be last, and the last first." This is a statement about servanthood. In the kingdom of God, it's not about you - it's about Him. In His family, it's not about you - it's about others. We are to rely on one another, treat one another as we want to be treated, serve and assist one another. Are you willing to put others first? If not, you will struggle in your relationships. Strive, greed, resentment, and anger will follow you. It is only when we humble ourselves and treat others with compassion and love that we find the compassion and love we long for.
Matthew 19:16-"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Did you ever face a tough choice. You knew the right choice to make, but it just seemed too hard? Our carnal minds talk us out of doing the right thing. Carnally, we are lazy and self-serving, which leads to depression and hopelessness. With God, those right choices are possible. When you trust Him, step out in faith, and do what you know is right - you will find a weight has been lifted along with freedom and joy you never thought possible.
Vs. 32-34 - Unlike Luke, Mark simply provides Jesus' words. He is pretty clear about what will happen during the passion week - he will be betrayed and delivered to the Pharisees, condemned to death, given to Pilate for confirmation of the death sentence. He will be mocked, spit on, flogged, and killed. But He will rise in three days. Jesus knew exactly what was coming. He allowed it all simply because He loves you. He put it all on the line simply to rescue you. Wow. Vs. 35-45 - Those disciples are still thinking they will be rulers once Jesus took political control. They want special places of honor in His kingdom. They are still thinking that this kingdom is an earthly kindgom. I think it is interesting that these men just heard a foretelling of Jesus' death - for the third time & they still don't get it. Once again, we humans have this ability to hear & not understand. We simply block out what we don't want to hear. Well, hear this plainly, Jesus came to serve - He taught, He healed, He loved, He died. His disciples are expected to copy this example. We are to serve others, not worry about our own importance. Matthew 20:17-19 - same as Mark.
Matthew 20:1-16 - We don't serve to get something out of it. Sure, we do get something out of it - sometimes payment, sometimes just the satisfaction of doing a good deed. However, it's not about what we will get. The kingdom of heaven is the same way - God calls us all. We don't answer because of what we will get. We answer because we know it's the truth. Anything after that is just a bonus. Some may become Chrsitians when they are very young, some may not believe until their death bed, but regardless of how long you have been a believer, we all have the same reward coming - eternal life. Once again, it's about the relationship, not the rewards.
Matthew 20:20-28 - This event is also found in Luke. We discussed it a few days ago. Matthew lets us know that James & John's mother was with them. Once again, Jesus tells them it's not about the reward, it's about the relationship.
Vs. 46-52 - Mark tells us the name of the blind man - Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus. A name means a witness. A person to go back to & confirm his story. Jesus heals him - not because he yelled the loudest, but because he believed. Yesterday we read about not giving up in prayer. It's not because we can annoy God enough that He will finally give us what we want so we'll shut up. It's because it shows faith. If you believe, you will seek, you will knock, you will ask.
Matthew 20:29-34 - Matthew tells us there were two men. Why do the gospels differ? It's all about personality. What is important and recalled by one man, may be unimportant and not worth mentioning to another. Mark knew the name of one of the men, so he focused on that man. Matthew focused on both men. Some think that these discrepancies proof that the Bible cannot be true. However, those that work in evidence and interview witnesses will tell you that a true accounting will have discrepencies. If you interview two witnesses & they give the exact same details - well then - they rehearsed their tale. They worked together to make it up. Isn't it awesome that even these little details actually proof the validity of the Bible? God is so good.
Vs. 1-12 - Divorce - God intended marriage to be a permanent relationship. Sure, these relationships get hard sometimes, but if you enter a marriage with the understanding that you are in it "for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness & health" then you are more willing to work out your issues and keep open lines of communication. The Pharisees wanted to expose Jesus as an opponent of Moses' law. However, once again, Jesus demonstrates that He understands the law much better than the religious leaders. Divorce was never part of God's original plan. It was provided for in Moses' law because of the hardenend hearts of man. Does this mean you need to stay in an abusive relationship? Absolutely not. It simply means that you need to approach marriage as a sacred union. Divorce should only be used for extreme cases.
Matthew 19:1-12 - Matthew adds that one may also divorce for sexual immorality. A spouse who sexually betrays his/her partner has broken the covenant of marriage. However, many couples are able to work through these issues and develop a happy relationship.
Vs. 13-16 - The disciples saw children as an annoying distraction. Jesus treated children with love and compassion. Their faith - that innocence and trust - is a characteristic that we adults need to adopt. Don't let the world harden your heart!
Matthew 19:13-15: nothing to add
Vs. 17-31 - A rich young man asks Jesus what he must do to earn eternal life. For this young man, it's all about being good enough. Can he work for it? Pay for it? Jesus tells him to give up his wealth & the young man walks away. If it's not about what you do, why would Jesus tell us this? It is because this man's wealth blocked his faith. He was self-sufficient and independent from God. He isn't looking for a relationship, he just wants an assurance. I like the last verse in this section, "But many who are first will be last, and the last first." This is a statement about servanthood. In the kingdom of God, it's not about you - it's about Him. In His family, it's not about you - it's about others. We are to rely on one another, treat one another as we want to be treated, serve and assist one another. Are you willing to put others first? If not, you will struggle in your relationships. Strive, greed, resentment, and anger will follow you. It is only when we humble ourselves and treat others with compassion and love that we find the compassion and love we long for.
Matthew 19:16-"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Did you ever face a tough choice. You knew the right choice to make, but it just seemed too hard? Our carnal minds talk us out of doing the right thing. Carnally, we are lazy and self-serving, which leads to depression and hopelessness. With God, those right choices are possible. When you trust Him, step out in faith, and do what you know is right - you will find a weight has been lifted along with freedom and joy you never thought possible.
Vs. 32-34 - Unlike Luke, Mark simply provides Jesus' words. He is pretty clear about what will happen during the passion week - he will be betrayed and delivered to the Pharisees, condemned to death, given to Pilate for confirmation of the death sentence. He will be mocked, spit on, flogged, and killed. But He will rise in three days. Jesus knew exactly what was coming. He allowed it all simply because He loves you. He put it all on the line simply to rescue you. Wow. Vs. 35-45 - Those disciples are still thinking they will be rulers once Jesus took political control. They want special places of honor in His kingdom. They are still thinking that this kingdom is an earthly kindgom. I think it is interesting that these men just heard a foretelling of Jesus' death - for the third time & they still don't get it. Once again, we humans have this ability to hear & not understand. We simply block out what we don't want to hear. Well, hear this plainly, Jesus came to serve - He taught, He healed, He loved, He died. His disciples are expected to copy this example. We are to serve others, not worry about our own importance. Matthew 20:17-19 - same as Mark.
Matthew 20:1-16 - We don't serve to get something out of it. Sure, we do get something out of it - sometimes payment, sometimes just the satisfaction of doing a good deed. However, it's not about what we will get. The kingdom of heaven is the same way - God calls us all. We don't answer because of what we will get. We answer because we know it's the truth. Anything after that is just a bonus. Some may become Chrsitians when they are very young, some may not believe until their death bed, but regardless of how long you have been a believer, we all have the same reward coming - eternal life. Once again, it's about the relationship, not the rewards.
Matthew 20:20-28 - This event is also found in Luke. We discussed it a few days ago. Matthew lets us know that James & John's mother was with them. Once again, Jesus tells them it's not about the reward, it's about the relationship.
Vs. 46-52 - Mark tells us the name of the blind man - Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus. A name means a witness. A person to go back to & confirm his story. Jesus heals him - not because he yelled the loudest, but because he believed. Yesterday we read about not giving up in prayer. It's not because we can annoy God enough that He will finally give us what we want so we'll shut up. It's because it shows faith. If you believe, you will seek, you will knock, you will ask.
Matthew 20:29-34 - Matthew tells us there were two men. Why do the gospels differ? It's all about personality. What is important and recalled by one man, may be unimportant and not worth mentioning to another. Mark knew the name of one of the men, so he focused on that man. Matthew focused on both men. Some think that these discrepancies proof that the Bible cannot be true. However, those that work in evidence and interview witnesses will tell you that a true accounting will have discrepencies. If you interview two witnesses & they give the exact same details - well then - they rehearsed their tale. They worked together to make it up. Isn't it awesome that even these little details actually proof the validity of the Bible? God is so good.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Luke 18:1-43
The next three readings will explore the same events from the viewpoint of three different authors. We will start with Luke.
Vs. 1-8 - the first verse sums it up - keep praying.
Vs. 9-14 - Don't think you're better than others. Approach God humbly.
Vs. 15-17 - Don't become hardened and cynical. Keep your childlike faith.
Vs. 18-30 - Put God first. Money gives a false sense of security. We can easily buy diversions with it. We think we are in charge when we have it. But money only heals the superficial. God heals the heart.
Vs. 31-34 - Jesus foretells of His death and resurrection for the third time. Yet, even though He explained Himself pretty clearly, the disciples were still unable to believe Him. This verse isn't saying that God intentionally withheld understanding. Simply that they didn't understand.
Vs. 35-43 - Jesus heals a blind beggar. Notice this man asked for healing and he had faith, he believed, that Jesus could heal him. It was this faith that healed him. Faith is an amazing thing. One must simply believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. That's it. There's no certain prayer, no certain act or work to be done, no being good enough. It's all about believing.
Vs. 1-8 - the first verse sums it up - keep praying.
Vs. 9-14 - Don't think you're better than others. Approach God humbly.
Vs. 15-17 - Don't become hardened and cynical. Keep your childlike faith.
Vs. 18-30 - Put God first. Money gives a false sense of security. We can easily buy diversions with it. We think we are in charge when we have it. But money only heals the superficial. God heals the heart.
Vs. 31-34 - Jesus foretells of His death and resurrection for the third time. Yet, even though He explained Himself pretty clearly, the disciples were still unable to believe Him. This verse isn't saying that God intentionally withheld understanding. Simply that they didn't understand.
Vs. 35-43 - Jesus heals a blind beggar. Notice this man asked for healing and he had faith, he believed, that Jesus could heal him. It was this faith that healed him. Faith is an amazing thing. One must simply believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. That's it. There's no certain prayer, no certain act or work to be done, no being good enough. It's all about believing.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Luke 17:11-37
11-19 - Jesus tells ten lepers to go to the priest. What? Levitical law states a person who has leprosy must be removed from the people. They are outcasts. If their conditions improves, they may go to the priest, who will examine them and verify their health. Once this has happened, they are welcomed back into society. One of these men, seeing he has been healed, returns to thank Jesus. How often do we forget to say thank you? How often do we get so caught up in the here and now that we overlook a simple thank you. God has given us so very much. Don't forget to thank Him.
20-37 - The pharisees want to know when the kingdom of heaven is coming. Jesus tells them that they won't recognize it when it does come. He then speaks of His coming rejection and death. Then we get into the Second Coming. Be careful. Know the prophecies. Know the Word. Do not let yourself be fooled by false imitations. When Jesus returns - everyone will know it. It won't be revealed to a select few. So, stay alert & beware.
20-37 - The pharisees want to know when the kingdom of heaven is coming. Jesus tells them that they won't recognize it when it does come. He then speaks of His coming rejection and death. Then we get into the Second Coming. Be careful. Know the prophecies. Know the Word. Do not let yourself be fooled by false imitations. When Jesus returns - everyone will know it. It won't be revealed to a select few. So, stay alert & beware.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
John 11:1-57
The Death of Lazarus -
Mary, Martha, and Lazarus are close friends of Jesus. When Lazarus becomes ill, Jesus knows exactly what will happen. Why didn't He rush to Lazarus' bedside? Because Jesus knows just what is best for us. We want what we want RIGHT NOW. But when we realize that God's answers will turn out for our best in the end, we can trust Him & be patient to wait.
vs. 17 - interesting fact from my study Bible, "Though burial usually followed soon after death, some later Jewish sources indicate a belief that the soul hovered over the body for three days hoping to reenter it, but then gave up and departed." So, all hope is gone for Lazarus' family, he's dead & buried four days.
Martha meets Jesus on the road & expresses her faith in Him. Her statement is like a litmus test for me, "But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you." Wow, her faith in Jesus was strong. Can I say that about my own faith. Jesus tells her that He is the light and the life. Now Mary comes weeping to Jesus. And Jesus wept. Jesus wasn't some distant, emotionally-cut off force. He is fully human and fully God. He knows the plan laid out for Him, He is obedient to the Father, but that doesn't make Him inhuman. He still had all the same emotional experiences that you & I do. He became frustrated with the pharisees, He had compassion on the sick & lost, He loved and grieved. You can turn to Him, not only because He is God, but also because He understands. He know hurt and joy, frustration and sorrow. He knows pain. He understands.
vs. 37 - there will always be people who see the cup as half empty. Jesus weeps and these people judge. How easy it is to be judgmental - to decide how someone should act, what they should say. Don't fall into that trap. Instead, look for the positive, see the cup as half full. Notice how uplifting that attitude is to your soul.
Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. How? Through prayer and true faith. This demonstration of power lead many people to believe. It also lead some to ramp up their desire to see Him dead. Some of the religious leaders saw Jesus as a threat to their nation. But then we read of Caiaphas' prophecy. Caiaphas was the high priest of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish governing body. Israel was a puppet state ruled by Rome. They were allowed there own government, as long as it was subservient to the Roman government. So, they were allowed to make laws, hold court, and maintain their religious freedom. The Sanhedrin saw Jesus as a threat to the delicate balance of government. They feared that the people would pledge their allegiance to Jesus, forcing Rome to step in and take away their rights. Caiaphas's prophecy stated that Jesus would die for the nation, this death would then gather in the lost children of God. Interesting and true prophecy. It amazes me that the Sanhedrin know this prophecy and still fail to recognize Jesus as the messiah.
One of the main points I get from the gospels is how we as a people are willing to blind our self to the truth. We pray, we rant, we demand, we plead - yet we refuse to see the answer. We want what we want, but it's not about want - it's about need. Getting what you want is superficial. It brings happiness for a little while, but then we become bored with it. It wears down and needs to be replaced. There is something always bigger & better out there. Getting what you need - that's life saving. When we stop focusing on what we think we know, what we think we need, what we think we want & start focusing on God's truth, we will find that all those other things will fall into place.
Mary, Martha, and Lazarus are close friends of Jesus. When Lazarus becomes ill, Jesus knows exactly what will happen. Why didn't He rush to Lazarus' bedside? Because Jesus knows just what is best for us. We want what we want RIGHT NOW. But when we realize that God's answers will turn out for our best in the end, we can trust Him & be patient to wait.
vs. 17 - interesting fact from my study Bible, "Though burial usually followed soon after death, some later Jewish sources indicate a belief that the soul hovered over the body for three days hoping to reenter it, but then gave up and departed." So, all hope is gone for Lazarus' family, he's dead & buried four days.
Martha meets Jesus on the road & expresses her faith in Him. Her statement is like a litmus test for me, "But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you." Wow, her faith in Jesus was strong. Can I say that about my own faith. Jesus tells her that He is the light and the life. Now Mary comes weeping to Jesus. And Jesus wept. Jesus wasn't some distant, emotionally-cut off force. He is fully human and fully God. He knows the plan laid out for Him, He is obedient to the Father, but that doesn't make Him inhuman. He still had all the same emotional experiences that you & I do. He became frustrated with the pharisees, He had compassion on the sick & lost, He loved and grieved. You can turn to Him, not only because He is God, but also because He understands. He know hurt and joy, frustration and sorrow. He knows pain. He understands.
vs. 37 - there will always be people who see the cup as half empty. Jesus weeps and these people judge. How easy it is to be judgmental - to decide how someone should act, what they should say. Don't fall into that trap. Instead, look for the positive, see the cup as half full. Notice how uplifting that attitude is to your soul.
Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. How? Through prayer and true faith. This demonstration of power lead many people to believe. It also lead some to ramp up their desire to see Him dead. Some of the religious leaders saw Jesus as a threat to their nation. But then we read of Caiaphas' prophecy. Caiaphas was the high priest of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish governing body. Israel was a puppet state ruled by Rome. They were allowed there own government, as long as it was subservient to the Roman government. So, they were allowed to make laws, hold court, and maintain their religious freedom. The Sanhedrin saw Jesus as a threat to the delicate balance of government. They feared that the people would pledge their allegiance to Jesus, forcing Rome to step in and take away their rights. Caiaphas's prophecy stated that Jesus would die for the nation, this death would then gather in the lost children of God. Interesting and true prophecy. It amazes me that the Sanhedrin know this prophecy and still fail to recognize Jesus as the messiah.
One of the main points I get from the gospels is how we as a people are willing to blind our self to the truth. We pray, we rant, we demand, we plead - yet we refuse to see the answer. We want what we want, but it's not about want - it's about need. Getting what you want is superficial. It brings happiness for a little while, but then we become bored with it. It wears down and needs to be replaced. There is something always bigger & better out there. Getting what you need - that's life saving. When we stop focusing on what we think we know, what we think we need, what we think we want & start focusing on God's truth, we will find that all those other things will fall into place.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Luke 16:1 - 17:10
16:1-13 - Parable of the Dishonest Manager: Ah, money, it is so easy to get off track. What can we learn from this?
1) use money to prepare for the future.
2) Be generous with what you have been given.
3) Money will fail you - it will not provide you with eternal life, nor will it bring you true happiness.
16:14-17 - We are now under a New Covenant, but that doesn't mean we get to just do what ever we want. The Law is in place to keep us safe & protected. It provides a border for safe behavior.
16:19-31 - Lazarus & the Rich Man - One of my favorites - Lazarus was a beggar, ignored by the rich man. The rich man was too good, too busy, too selfish to help the poor man. Yet, it was the heart of the men that mattered to God. Lazarus went to heaven, the rich man to hell. But even in hell, the rich man thought he was better than Lazarus. He wanted Lazarus to work for him - bring him water, go & warn his family. The rich man's heart was completely corrupt, his eyes blind to the error of his ways. Will you be like the rich man or Lazarus? Will you focus on God or will you focus on yourself? Will you treat everyone as equals, or do you think you are better than someone else? The truth is right in front of us, we don't need someone to point it out. We just need to step outside of our own selfishness to pay attention to it.
17:1-10 - Simply advice on social issues:
1) Don't tempt or cause someone else to sin!
2) Forgive, forgive, forgive.
3) Don't ignore sin. If someone is on fire, you would put it out right? So, if they are destroying themselves - say something.
4) All it takes is a little seed of faith.
5) Don't do something for recognition. Do it because it is the right thing to do.
1) use money to prepare for the future.
2) Be generous with what you have been given.
3) Money will fail you - it will not provide you with eternal life, nor will it bring you true happiness.
16:14-17 - We are now under a New Covenant, but that doesn't mean we get to just do what ever we want. The Law is in place to keep us safe & protected. It provides a border for safe behavior.
16:19-31 - Lazarus & the Rich Man - One of my favorites - Lazarus was a beggar, ignored by the rich man. The rich man was too good, too busy, too selfish to help the poor man. Yet, it was the heart of the men that mattered to God. Lazarus went to heaven, the rich man to hell. But even in hell, the rich man thought he was better than Lazarus. He wanted Lazarus to work for him - bring him water, go & warn his family. The rich man's heart was completely corrupt, his eyes blind to the error of his ways. Will you be like the rich man or Lazarus? Will you focus on God or will you focus on yourself? Will you treat everyone as equals, or do you think you are better than someone else? The truth is right in front of us, we don't need someone to point it out. We just need to step outside of our own selfishness to pay attention to it.
17:1-10 - Simply advice on social issues:
1) Don't tempt or cause someone else to sin!
2) Forgive, forgive, forgive.
3) Don't ignore sin. If someone is on fire, you would put it out right? So, if they are destroying themselves - say something.
4) All it takes is a little seed of faith.
5) Don't do something for recognition. Do it because it is the right thing to do.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Luke 15:1-32
1-10: Parable of the Lost Sheep & Lost Coin: Oh my, Jesus ate with tax collectors & sinners! This means He fellowships with them, talked to them, spend time with them. He didn't keep Himself separate. He didn't shun them for their unbelief. Instead, He showed them a new life. The lost are important to Jesus.
11-32: Parable of the Prodigal Son: We just had this lesson in Sunday School. It's one of my favorites. This selfish, greedy kid disrespects his father, demands money & then goes out to live the life he wants. Unfortunately, this great life leads him to ruin & he finds himself eating slop with pigs. Pigs! Gross. So, sitting in the muck, he realizes that his father's servants are better fed than this, so he decides to head home & get a job.
Now - see this - this kids has realized the error of his ways. He has been humbled & is heading home to work. He's not heading home as a son, but as a servant. His attitude has taken a complete turn-around.
So, while he is still coming, his father rejoices & runs out to him. He accepts him as a son & throws a party for him. The man's son has returned. But, wait, the older son, the one who was obedient, who stayed, who has been faithful is upset. He always did everything right. His brother was greedy & disrespectful, but his dad welcomes him back & throws a party.
"Well," says the father, "everything I have is yours. You will inherit it all. But your brother was lost to us and now he has come back with a renewed & humble heart. I love you, I love him." Do you see it? God is the father. He loves us - regardless. Those who believe, obey, have faith - we are part of His family and we will inherit the kingdom of heaven. But He loves everyone, even those who are lost. He longs for them to return to Him & He rejoices when they do. He welcomes them back into the family. How cool is that? We are only lost as long as we desire to be lost. So, come back to God, let Him welcome you back into the family.
11-32: Parable of the Prodigal Son: We just had this lesson in Sunday School. It's one of my favorites. This selfish, greedy kid disrespects his father, demands money & then goes out to live the life he wants. Unfortunately, this great life leads him to ruin & he finds himself eating slop with pigs. Pigs! Gross. So, sitting in the muck, he realizes that his father's servants are better fed than this, so he decides to head home & get a job.
Now - see this - this kids has realized the error of his ways. He has been humbled & is heading home to work. He's not heading home as a son, but as a servant. His attitude has taken a complete turn-around.
So, while he is still coming, his father rejoices & runs out to him. He accepts him as a son & throws a party for him. The man's son has returned. But, wait, the older son, the one who was obedient, who stayed, who has been faithful is upset. He always did everything right. His brother was greedy & disrespectful, but his dad welcomes him back & throws a party.
"Well," says the father, "everything I have is yours. You will inherit it all. But your brother was lost to us and now he has come back with a renewed & humble heart. I love you, I love him." Do you see it? God is the father. He loves us - regardless. Those who believe, obey, have faith - we are part of His family and we will inherit the kingdom of heaven. But He loves everyone, even those who are lost. He longs for them to return to Him & He rejoices when they do. He welcomes them back into the family. How cool is that? We are only lost as long as we desire to be lost. So, come back to God, let Him welcome you back into the family.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Luke 14:1-35
14:1-6: Jesus heals another man on the Sabbath. This is his third healing on a Sabbath. When questioned, he uses the same argument he has used before.
14:7-11: Parable of the Wedding Feast: stay humble. I always think of this as - there will always be someone stronger, smarter, more capable than you. So, don't set yourself up as the best, or you just might be humiliated. Rather, stay humble.
14:12-14: Parable of the Great Banquet: Don't throw a big party to make yourself look good, or to gain favors from others. Instead, be generous with what you have. Does this mean you can never have a party? No. It means, look at your motivation. Is your life all about you & what you can get? Or is your life about serving others?
14:15-24: The Great Banquet: This refers to the Kingdom of Heaven. The Jewish people were given noticed well in advance of the coming Messiah. But, when He arrived, they ignored Him, made excuses for why they couldn't believe in Him, etc. So, the kingdom is open to everyone - Jew & Gentile alike. Everyone who believes, who comes will be welcome.
14:25-34: The Cost: Full & complete commitment. Nothing comes before Jesus, not your family, not your will. But He said hate! "Hating" is a Semitic expression for loving less. It simply means that Jesus is your first love. If you do not fully commit to Jesus, then you are simply unusable. Harsh? Maybe, but look at the parables above. When it's about you, you aren't able to help anyone but yourself. When you put yourself above Jesus, well then you're just unable to listen.
14:7-11: Parable of the Wedding Feast: stay humble. I always think of this as - there will always be someone stronger, smarter, more capable than you. So, don't set yourself up as the best, or you just might be humiliated. Rather, stay humble.
14:12-14: Parable of the Great Banquet: Don't throw a big party to make yourself look good, or to gain favors from others. Instead, be generous with what you have. Does this mean you can never have a party? No. It means, look at your motivation. Is your life all about you & what you can get? Or is your life about serving others?
14:15-24: The Great Banquet: This refers to the Kingdom of Heaven. The Jewish people were given noticed well in advance of the coming Messiah. But, when He arrived, they ignored Him, made excuses for why they couldn't believe in Him, etc. So, the kingdom is open to everyone - Jew & Gentile alike. Everyone who believes, who comes will be welcome.
14:25-34: The Cost: Full & complete commitment. Nothing comes before Jesus, not your family, not your will. But He said hate! "Hating" is a Semitic expression for loving less. It simply means that Jesus is your first love. If you do not fully commit to Jesus, then you are simply unusable. Harsh? Maybe, but look at the parables above. When it's about you, you aren't able to help anyone but yourself. When you put yourself above Jesus, well then you're just unable to listen.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
John 10:1-42; Luke 13:22-35
Sorry for the long reading. We are on a schedule that will allow us to read the Passion week scriptures during the passion week. Since I've been battling virus after virus, I haven't even turned on a computer in days. So, we are going to combine Thursday & Friday's readings to stay on schedule.
John 10:1-21: Jesus gives an analogy of a shepherd and his sheep to describe His mission. In His culture, shepherds were very common and most people had a good understanding of the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. Now, sheep are pretty vulnerable. They are easy prey for wild animals. They have value, making them an object to steal. The shepherd cares for, protects, fights for his sheep. In turn, they listen to his voice. They come when they are called. Jesus is our shepherd. He protects us from our enemies, both human and spiritual. He provides for us. He watches over us. He laid down His life for us. In return, we need to listen to Him and stay away from the dangers in life. Pretty simple.
John 10:22-42: It's the time of the Feast of Dedication, which Jesus as a Jew practiced. The Feast of Dedication is also known as Chanukah. People came up to Him and asked Him if He is the Messiah. Jesus tells them, ["I have already answered this question, but you refused to listen."] Again, He speaks of sheep. Those who recognize the shepherd follow. Those that deny the Messiah is to be a shepherd reject His claims. They still want a political leader. Now, I think the next part is interesting. They decide to stone Him for claiming to be the Son of God. Isn't that what they just asked Him? Once again, they were looking with man's heart for what they thought they wanted instead of seeking God's Will for what they needed. Don't we do the same? Don't we just cut out, deny, and destroy what we don't want to hear? We react with anger instead of understanding. We hear, but we refuse to listen. And nothing ever gets better. So, open your ears, your eyes, your hearts - look for what you need, not what you want. Only then will you find the peace that God offers.
Luke 12:22-30 - Will few be saved? Well, considering only a few were willing to listen and believe, yes. Many have followed Jesus around, eating miraculous feasts, receiving healing, watching sign after sign, but few have become actual followers. Notice verse 26, "We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets." This statement is superficial and shallow. It does not indicate a relationship. They aren't saying, we ate with you, you taught us. They are saying, we were there. Look, I recently had the privilege of seeing one of the greatest tap dancers in the world, Savion Glover. I have admired this man's talent for years. I've seen him on T.V. specials, read interviews and reviews. I'm familiar with his work. However, sitting in the same auditorium with him does not make a relationship. I have been on an airplane with Jack Hanna, a well-known animal expert that appears on numerous T.V. shows. I even said "hi" to him. We were served the same meal. Does that indicate a relationship? Will either of these people be calling me up for a chat? Can I rely on them to help me out of a jam? Nope. It's the same with Jesus. You can follow Him around, listen to His teachings, watch Him work, but never form a relationship. And it's the relationship that is needed. You need to know Him, trust Him, rely on Him. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob - they knew Him. You can too.
Luke 12:31-35 - Jesus is warned that Herod wants to kill Him. Is He worried? Nope. He knows the plan set out for Him. But He does employ some irony here. Jerusalem, the center of Jewish faith, the home of God's temple, is more dangerous to God's prophets than any earthly king. God chose Jerusalem to be the center of worship, yet the religious leaders continue to reject God's voice. Jesus bemoans their fate. He would love to care for them, be their shepherd, but they refuse to listen. Jesus feels the same way about you. He longs to be your Savior, to guide you, protect you, love you. Will you let Him?
John 10:1-21: Jesus gives an analogy of a shepherd and his sheep to describe His mission. In His culture, shepherds were very common and most people had a good understanding of the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. Now, sheep are pretty vulnerable. They are easy prey for wild animals. They have value, making them an object to steal. The shepherd cares for, protects, fights for his sheep. In turn, they listen to his voice. They come when they are called. Jesus is our shepherd. He protects us from our enemies, both human and spiritual. He provides for us. He watches over us. He laid down His life for us. In return, we need to listen to Him and stay away from the dangers in life. Pretty simple.
John 10:22-42: It's the time of the Feast of Dedication, which Jesus as a Jew practiced. The Feast of Dedication is also known as Chanukah. People came up to Him and asked Him if He is the Messiah. Jesus tells them, ["I have already answered this question, but you refused to listen."] Again, He speaks of sheep. Those who recognize the shepherd follow. Those that deny the Messiah is to be a shepherd reject His claims. They still want a political leader. Now, I think the next part is interesting. They decide to stone Him for claiming to be the Son of God. Isn't that what they just asked Him? Once again, they were looking with man's heart for what they thought they wanted instead of seeking God's Will for what they needed. Don't we do the same? Don't we just cut out, deny, and destroy what we don't want to hear? We react with anger instead of understanding. We hear, but we refuse to listen. And nothing ever gets better. So, open your ears, your eyes, your hearts - look for what you need, not what you want. Only then will you find the peace that God offers.
Luke 12:22-30 - Will few be saved? Well, considering only a few were willing to listen and believe, yes. Many have followed Jesus around, eating miraculous feasts, receiving healing, watching sign after sign, but few have become actual followers. Notice verse 26, "We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets." This statement is superficial and shallow. It does not indicate a relationship. They aren't saying, we ate with you, you taught us. They are saying, we were there. Look, I recently had the privilege of seeing one of the greatest tap dancers in the world, Savion Glover. I have admired this man's talent for years. I've seen him on T.V. specials, read interviews and reviews. I'm familiar with his work. However, sitting in the same auditorium with him does not make a relationship. I have been on an airplane with Jack Hanna, a well-known animal expert that appears on numerous T.V. shows. I even said "hi" to him. We were served the same meal. Does that indicate a relationship? Will either of these people be calling me up for a chat? Can I rely on them to help me out of a jam? Nope. It's the same with Jesus. You can follow Him around, listen to His teachings, watch Him work, but never form a relationship. And it's the relationship that is needed. You need to know Him, trust Him, rely on Him. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob - they knew Him. You can too.
Luke 12:31-35 - Jesus is warned that Herod wants to kill Him. Is He worried? Nope. He knows the plan set out for Him. But He does employ some irony here. Jerusalem, the center of Jewish faith, the home of God's temple, is more dangerous to God's prophets than any earthly king. God chose Jerusalem to be the center of worship, yet the religious leaders continue to reject God's voice. Jesus bemoans their fate. He would love to care for them, be their shepherd, but they refuse to listen. Jesus feels the same way about you. He longs to be your Savior, to guide you, protect you, love you. Will you let Him?
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
John 9:1-41
It is a common misconception that people suffer illness because of sin. Jesus tells us this is not true. However, sometimes "God in his mysterious and wise providence sometimes allows his children to go through hardship and suffering so that they can experience God's mercy and power in delivering them." Sickness, blindness, cancer are all natural consequences of living in a fallen world. But God is always there to deliver us.
Wow, this poor beggar. He is healed, yet the Pharisees try to refute it. When he gives an elegant accounting of his believe and his healing, he is cast out. Yikes. Sometimes when we stand up for God we will be cast out. Does that mean we should turn tail and run? Absolutely not. For as we can see, Jesus never casts us out.
So, hold on to Jesus & stand up for Him.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Luke 13:1-21
1-5: These two events, Pilate killing Galileans and the tower in Siloam falling are not recorded elsewhere in Scripture. However, Jesus is correcting a popular misconception that bad things happen to bad people. We will all die one way or another. Unless you repent, you will not find eternal life.
6-9: This parable symbolizes the coming judgement. The vine is Israel, the man is God. Israel has turned away from God, doing what they think is right, following man's laws. Jesus, the vinedresser, has come to offer salvation. If Israel does not repent, then they will experience God's judgement. This can be a lesson to us all. We are sinners, unproducing vines. Jesus offers us salvation. If we believe, we become producing vines. If we ignore, we continue to be unproducing. The final judgment is coming, those unproducing vines will be removed.
10-17: Again, Jesus heals on the Sabbath, infuriating the ruler of the synagogue. Jesus responds in the same manner - you don't let your livestock suffer on the Sabbath. They get fed, watered, and cared for, so why wouldn't we care for a fellow human being? The people are astonished by the clarity of His argument. Have you ever had one of those moments when things just become crystal clear & you think, "Why didn't that occur to me before?" At lot of times we allow ourselves to overlook common sense.
18-21: What is heaven like? It starts out small, with Jesus & His followers, but it will grow to an extensive, glorious state at the second coming.
So, what's this section all about? Faith, trust, belief. Jesus offers the gift of salvation. When you accept that gift, you become part of the kingdom of God, a family that just keeps growing. This salvation offers eternal life and a family that has your back. Pretty cool, huh?
6-9: This parable symbolizes the coming judgement. The vine is Israel, the man is God. Israel has turned away from God, doing what they think is right, following man's laws. Jesus, the vinedresser, has come to offer salvation. If Israel does not repent, then they will experience God's judgement. This can be a lesson to us all. We are sinners, unproducing vines. Jesus offers us salvation. If we believe, we become producing vines. If we ignore, we continue to be unproducing. The final judgment is coming, those unproducing vines will be removed.
10-17: Again, Jesus heals on the Sabbath, infuriating the ruler of the synagogue. Jesus responds in the same manner - you don't let your livestock suffer on the Sabbath. They get fed, watered, and cared for, so why wouldn't we care for a fellow human being? The people are astonished by the clarity of His argument. Have you ever had one of those moments when things just become crystal clear & you think, "Why didn't that occur to me before?" At lot of times we allow ourselves to overlook common sense.
18-21: What is heaven like? It starts out small, with Jesus & His followers, but it will grow to an extensive, glorious state at the second coming.
So, what's this section all about? Faith, trust, belief. Jesus offers the gift of salvation. When you accept that gift, you become part of the kingdom of God, a family that just keeps growing. This salvation offers eternal life and a family that has your back. Pretty cool, huh?
Monday, March 4, 2013
Matthew 12:1-59
1-8: There is a difference between man's law & the Lord's Law. The Lord's law says "remember the Sabbath and keep it Holy." Man's law says picking food on the Sabbath is work & therefore a sin. Priests work on the Sabbath, but the Lord makes allowances for them. This shows that God made allowances within the law. The law was given to serve the people, not for the people to be slaves to the law. Resting on the Sabbath provides a break from work and a day to focus on your relationship with God. Jesus didn't challenge the law, but rather the Pharisees interpretation of the law.
9-14: The Pharisees now question Jesus about healing on the Sabbath. Isn't that considered work, which is a sin? Jesus reminds them that they would save one of their sheep on the Sabbath. The health and well being of a man is just as important. Again, it's not about following a strict set of human laws, it is about motivation and attitude. The Sabbath is for rest and relationship.
15-21: Prophecy, found in Isaiah 42:1-3, is being fulfilled here. It reminds us that Jesus came as a servant. Not one seeking acclaim, popularity, or celebrity. He did not come as a conquering hero (that is to come at the second coming). He is here to serve the people by bringing them the good news of salvation.
22-32: Jesus is once again accused of being a servants of Satan by using Satan's power to cast out demons. Jesus responds that it is ludicrous to believe Satan would cast out his own workers. Besides, by what power do the Pharisee's disciples cast out demons? Extra biblical accounts provide stories of strange rituals for casting out evil spirits. It is unclear if these worked. Jesus reminds the Pharisees that it is the power of the Spirit of God that casts out demons. Then Jesus states, "whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven." This statement has caused many to fret. What is this unforgivable sin? It is attributing God's work to Satan through willful and persistent rejection of God. It is deliberately rejecting the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
33-37: Jesus reminds us that our words and actions show our true spirit. We will be judged on what we say, so keep that in mind.
38-42: We have read and commented on this statement before. The sign the scribes and pharisees are looking for will be Jesus' death and resurrection.
43-45: Clean up your soul by filling your heart and mind with God. You can attempt to rid yourself of sin by regimenting every detail of your life, but without God you will still be empty and easily tempted.
46-50: Does Jesus not care about His earthly family? Of course He does; however, He is making a statement here that everyone is important to Him. He will not give precedence to His earthly family over His spiritual family. We ask believers are just as important to Him.
9-14: The Pharisees now question Jesus about healing on the Sabbath. Isn't that considered work, which is a sin? Jesus reminds them that they would save one of their sheep on the Sabbath. The health and well being of a man is just as important. Again, it's not about following a strict set of human laws, it is about motivation and attitude. The Sabbath is for rest and relationship.
15-21: Prophecy, found in Isaiah 42:1-3, is being fulfilled here. It reminds us that Jesus came as a servant. Not one seeking acclaim, popularity, or celebrity. He did not come as a conquering hero (that is to come at the second coming). He is here to serve the people by bringing them the good news of salvation.
22-32: Jesus is once again accused of being a servants of Satan by using Satan's power to cast out demons. Jesus responds that it is ludicrous to believe Satan would cast out his own workers. Besides, by what power do the Pharisee's disciples cast out demons? Extra biblical accounts provide stories of strange rituals for casting out evil spirits. It is unclear if these worked. Jesus reminds the Pharisees that it is the power of the Spirit of God that casts out demons. Then Jesus states, "whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven." This statement has caused many to fret. What is this unforgivable sin? It is attributing God's work to Satan through willful and persistent rejection of God. It is deliberately rejecting the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
33-37: Jesus reminds us that our words and actions show our true spirit. We will be judged on what we say, so keep that in mind.
38-42: We have read and commented on this statement before. The sign the scribes and pharisees are looking for will be Jesus' death and resurrection.
43-45: Clean up your soul by filling your heart and mind with God. You can attempt to rid yourself of sin by regimenting every detail of your life, but without God you will still be empty and easily tempted.
46-50: Does Jesus not care about His earthly family? Of course He does; however, He is making a statement here that everyone is important to Him. He will not give precedence to His earthly family over His spiritual family. We ask believers are just as important to Him.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Luke 11:28-54
Various teachings ~
1) A woman tells Jesus is mother is blessed. Jesus responds that believers are blessed. What is a believer? Those that hear the Word and keep it.
2) Jonah was a prophet, sent by God to warn the people of Nineveh to change there ways. He didn't want to go, so he ran away. In the course of events, he was swallowed by a big fish, spending three days in the fish's belly. After he was spit up on shore, Jonah went and spoke the words God gave him. The people of Nineveh repented - they heard the words and kept it. The Queen from the South is the Queen of Sheba, who hearing of the great wealth and wisdom of Solomon, traveled to Judea for a tour and a conference. After speaking with Solomon, she proclaimed that Yahweh was the One True God. Jesus tells those who follow up looking for signs that they have missed the mark. Jesus' words are the signs they should follow.
3) The lamp is God's Word. No one would turn on a flashlight and then hide it in a drawer. What use would that be? Reading God's word and doing nothing with it is the same. Go back to number 1 - hear the Word and keep it. Follow it. Put it in to practice. Use it to make your decisions. Become a believer.
4) Washing was a symbol of inner cleanliness. It was suppose to signify a surrender to God, a willingness to clean out your life of sin, and once again hear the Word and keep it. The pharisees had gotten to the point where their worship was just symbols. They did a lot of outward things so others could see, but they never did the work to clean up the inside. It's like a car, you can shine the paint job until it gleams, vacuum and detail the inside so it retains that new car smell, but if you don't maintain the engine and undercarriage, the car isn't going to function correctly no matter how shiny it is. We need to spend time on our relationship with God and worry less about impressing other people.
5) Well, can you imagine that the pharisees were insulted! Jesus tells them an insult is the least of their worries. These men are the religious leaders. And they are leading the people astray. Not good. Judgment and doom are coming for these men if they continue down this path. It is easy to get busy judging other people. It is easy to give your opinion on matters that you know little about. It is very easy to give someone the wrong information about God which will damage their relationship with God. It takes no thought or effort. What is hard it staying silent and listening. Learning truth and giving up your opinion. Focusing on your relationship with God. Hard isn't the right word, effort is. It takes effort - but it's an effort that will pay off. Follow Jesus! Read His Word. Think before you speak. You will be amazed at how easy life really becomes when you make just an effort to hear the Word and do what it says.
1) A woman tells Jesus is mother is blessed. Jesus responds that believers are blessed. What is a believer? Those that hear the Word and keep it.
2) Jonah was a prophet, sent by God to warn the people of Nineveh to change there ways. He didn't want to go, so he ran away. In the course of events, he was swallowed by a big fish, spending three days in the fish's belly. After he was spit up on shore, Jonah went and spoke the words God gave him. The people of Nineveh repented - they heard the words and kept it. The Queen from the South is the Queen of Sheba, who hearing of the great wealth and wisdom of Solomon, traveled to Judea for a tour and a conference. After speaking with Solomon, she proclaimed that Yahweh was the One True God. Jesus tells those who follow up looking for signs that they have missed the mark. Jesus' words are the signs they should follow.
3) The lamp is God's Word. No one would turn on a flashlight and then hide it in a drawer. What use would that be? Reading God's word and doing nothing with it is the same. Go back to number 1 - hear the Word and keep it. Follow it. Put it in to practice. Use it to make your decisions. Become a believer.
4) Washing was a symbol of inner cleanliness. It was suppose to signify a surrender to God, a willingness to clean out your life of sin, and once again hear the Word and keep it. The pharisees had gotten to the point where their worship was just symbols. They did a lot of outward things so others could see, but they never did the work to clean up the inside. It's like a car, you can shine the paint job until it gleams, vacuum and detail the inside so it retains that new car smell, but if you don't maintain the engine and undercarriage, the car isn't going to function correctly no matter how shiny it is. We need to spend time on our relationship with God and worry less about impressing other people.
5) Well, can you imagine that the pharisees were insulted! Jesus tells them an insult is the least of their worries. These men are the religious leaders. And they are leading the people astray. Not good. Judgment and doom are coming for these men if they continue down this path. It is easy to get busy judging other people. It is easy to give your opinion on matters that you know little about. It is very easy to give someone the wrong information about God which will damage their relationship with God. It takes no thought or effort. What is hard it staying silent and listening. Learning truth and giving up your opinion. Focusing on your relationship with God. Hard isn't the right word, effort is. It takes effort - but it's an effort that will pay off. Follow Jesus! Read His Word. Think before you speak. You will be amazed at how easy life really becomes when you make just an effort to hear the Word and do what it says.
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