Sometimes, the best thing to do is let Scripture speak and get out of the way! I love this passage from the "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew 5.
The Beatitudes
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. 2Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
3 ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
5 ‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
6 ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
7 ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
8 ‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
9 ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
10 ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 ‘Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely* on my account. 12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Feeling Depressed?
Do you feel sad? Depressed? Lonely? Discouraged? Down in the dumps? That is a horrible feeling, and often times these feelings get us down and defeat us before we ever know what hit us. Worst of all, these feelings will often prevent us from approaching our Lord.
But there is good news, these feelings are just that...feelings! Feelings change, feelings are not permanent, feelings so often depend on...well, us.
The reality is, for those of us that believe in Jesus Christ, that we should NEVER be sad, depressed or discouraged. Check out this passage from Ephesians 1:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4just as he chose us in Christ* before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. 5He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace 8that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight 9he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 11In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance,* having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, 12so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; 14this* is the pledge of our inheritance towards redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory. 15 -->
Wow...how can anyone read this passage and be depressed? Lets break it down a little:
But there is good news, these feelings are just that...feelings! Feelings change, feelings are not permanent, feelings so often depend on...well, us.
The reality is, for those of us that believe in Jesus Christ, that we should NEVER be sad, depressed or discouraged. Check out this passage from Ephesians 1:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4just as he chose us in Christ* before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. 5He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace 8that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight 9he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 11In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance,* having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, 12so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; 14this* is the pledge of our inheritance towards redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory. 15 -->
Wow...how can anyone read this passage and be depressed? Lets break it down a little:
- In verse 3 Paul starts by telling us that Christ blessed us with EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. Hear that, every spiritual blessing. Jesus holds nothing back from us. And these blessings are not temporary earthly blessings, these are permanent, spiritual blessings in the heavenly places. What a blessing!
- Verse 4 tells us that were were chosen in Christ before the foundations of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. Jesus choose us before the foundations of the world!! While we were still sinners, while we were still unworthy Jesus choose us and justified us before Him in love.
- Verse 5 continues this though by telling us that we are destined for adoption. Do you fully grasp that? We have been adopted! We are children of God, we are brothers and sisters with Jesus Christ!! And why did Jesus do this, Paul simply states that He did it according to His good pleasure to the praise of His glorious grace. Thats right...he did it just because. He did it because it gave God pleasure to adopt us. He did it because he loves us.
- Verse 6 continues this though by saying that this grace and Love of God is freely given, freely bestowed in the Beloved (aka Jesus Christ). What a gracious, and generous and abundant God!
- Verse 7 assures us that we have redemption and forgiveness through the blood of Jesus. And Paul demonstrates the value of this gift by stating that we receive it through the "riches" of His grace, and that it is lavished upon us. Think about that adjective "lavished", how often do we use that word day to day? Not often, because it really signifies great worth, great expense, great value. Paul uses that word here to describe the riches of God's grace towards us!!
- If that isn't enough, in verse 9 we are told that God has made known to man the mystery of His Will according to His good pleasure. How awesome is that? Not only are we adopted, not only are we redeemed, not only do we gain and inheritance, but God also shares with us the mystery of His Will: that through Jesus Christ one day all things will come together.
- Finally, in vv 14-15 we are told that through the Holy Spirit we are marked and sealed as a pledge of this inheritance. That right, once you have accepted Jesus Christ we are sealed with Holy Spirit as a pledge. We are His, He cannot lose us. Once day, we will be called home and the guarantee of the the Spirit is that we will spend eternity in paradise with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
So how do you feel now? Ephesians 1 is quite possibly my favorite chapter in the Bible. What a wonderful, loving, and gracious God we have. To quote Third Day, "Praise to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our God and our King, to Him we will sing. In His great mercy He has given us life. Now we can be called the children of God".
Feeling depressed, don't be. Stand on the promises of Jesus Christ. Are feelings can change, but our gracious Lord and Saviour never will.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
What The Atonement Of Jesus Christ Means
Yes...I love the week after Easter. We get to bask in the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Chirst and really take in the fact that Jesus died on the cross for OUR sins. His sacrificial death atoned for our sins. And through that death we have the atonement of our sins, or the at-one-ment of ourselves to our Holy God. The scriptures are filled with what the atonement means, here are some handy scriptural verses on the atonement that all Christians should be aware of, but this is not an exhaustive list. I pray that you find these verses meaningful and draw you towards a closer relationship with Jesus Christ:
Explained
Romans 5:8-11 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Foreordained
Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
1 Peter 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
Foretold
Isaiah 53:4-6 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Daniel 9:24-27 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.
Zechariah 13:7 Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.
Effected by Christ alone
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Was voluntary
Psalms 40:6-8 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.
Hebrews 10:5-9 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
Exhibits the Grace and mercy of God
Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
Ephesians 2:4-5 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
Love of God
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
1 John 4:9-10 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Love of Christ
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Reconciles the justice and mercy of God
Isaiah 45:21 Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
Necessity for
Isaiah 59:16 And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.
Made but once
Hebrews 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
Hebrews 9:24-28 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. ...
Acceptable to God
Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Access to God
Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
Remission of sins by
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
Sanctification by
2 Corinthians 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
Redemption by
Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Explained
Romans 5:8-11 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Foreordained
Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
1 Peter 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
Foretold
Isaiah 53:4-6 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Daniel 9:24-27 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.
Zechariah 13:7 Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.
Effected by Christ alone
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Was voluntary
Psalms 40:6-8 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.
Hebrews 10:5-9 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
Exhibits the Grace and mercy of God
Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
Ephesians 2:4-5 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
Love of God
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
1 John 4:9-10 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Love of Christ
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Reconciles the justice and mercy of God
Isaiah 45:21 Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
Necessity for
Isaiah 59:16 And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.
Made but once
Hebrews 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
Hebrews 9:24-28 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. ...
Acceptable to God
Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Access to God
Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
Remission of sins by
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
Sanctification by
2 Corinthians 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
Redemption by
Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Setting the date for Easter
Christmas is December 25th, every year, but Easter moves dates from year to year. Ever wonder why that is? Hopefully, this will help to answer that question:
The date for Easter shifts every year within the Gregorian Calendar. The current Gregorian ecclesiastical rules that determine the date of Easter trace back to 325 AD at the First Council of Nicaea convened by the Roman Emperor Constantine. At that time the Roman world used the Julian Calendar (put in place by Julius Caesar).
The Council of Nicaea decided to keep Easter on a Sunday, the same Sunday throughout the world. To fix incontrovertibly the date for Easter, and to make it determinable indefinitely in advance, the Council constructed special tables to compute the date. These tables were revised in the following few centuries resulting eventually in the tables constructed by the 6th century Abbot of Scythia, Dionysis Exiguus. Nonetheless, different means of calculations continued in use throughout the Christian world.
In 1582 Gregory XIII (Pope of the Roman Catholic Church) completed a reconstruction of the Julian calendar and produced new Easter tables. By the 1700's, though, most of western Europe had adopted the Gregorian Calendar. The Eastern Christian churches still determine the Easter dates using the older Julian Calendar method.
The usual statement is that Easter Day (Sunday) is the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs next after the vernal equinox. Very few times has there been an exception to this rule. The result is that (generally) Easter can never occur before March 22 or later than April 25.
In a congress held in 1923, the eastern churches adopted a modified Gregorian Calendar and decided to set the date of Easter according to the astronomical Full Moon for the meridian of Jerusalem. However, a variety of practices remain among the eastern orthodox churches.
The date for Easter shifts every year within the Gregorian Calendar. The current Gregorian ecclesiastical rules that determine the date of Easter trace back to 325 AD at the First Council of Nicaea convened by the Roman Emperor Constantine. At that time the Roman world used the Julian Calendar (put in place by Julius Caesar).
The Council of Nicaea decided to keep Easter on a Sunday, the same Sunday throughout the world. To fix incontrovertibly the date for Easter, and to make it determinable indefinitely in advance, the Council constructed special tables to compute the date. These tables were revised in the following few centuries resulting eventually in the tables constructed by the 6th century Abbot of Scythia, Dionysis Exiguus. Nonetheless, different means of calculations continued in use throughout the Christian world.
In 1582 Gregory XIII (Pope of the Roman Catholic Church) completed a reconstruction of the Julian calendar and produced new Easter tables. By the 1700's, though, most of western Europe had adopted the Gregorian Calendar. The Eastern Christian churches still determine the Easter dates using the older Julian Calendar method.
The usual statement is that Easter Day (Sunday) is the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs next after the vernal equinox. Very few times has there been an exception to this rule. The result is that (generally) Easter can never occur before March 22 or later than April 25.
In a congress held in 1923, the eastern churches adopted a modified Gregorian Calendar and decided to set the date of Easter according to the astronomical Full Moon for the meridian of Jerusalem. However, a variety of practices remain among the eastern orthodox churches.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Stix and Stones...
Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Eph 4:29
If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. James 1:26
Last night I watched an episode of 20/20, and the show was on the case of the Rutgers University student that committed suicide after learning (or believing) that his roommate video recorded him and another man in his dorm room. For many who know the story, the roommate was convicted of a hate crime for spying. The episode presented both sides of the story, but one thing came out loud and clear to me, people talk and say things way too quickly and without much thought!
The entire episode played out how each roommate posted things on Twitter, on Facebook, and through text messages that were absolutely awful. When asked about these posts, the roommate simply said, "I didn't mean anything by it, thats just the way the kids talk."
I'm sorry, that is not an adequate answer. First, at 18-19 years old you are not just "kid". Secondly, assuming you were even younger, your words mean something. Your words can either build up or tear down. And in the age we live in today, where the words oftentimes are electronic and therefore permanent, your words carry even more power.
The Bible is clear: we need to keep control over our tongues. And if computers were around during the time of the Bible writers they would have said to keep control over your fingers too. Words are powerful. The Lord spoke the universe into existence using His Words. The Scriptures our clear, our tongues are to be gentle (Prov 15:4), guarded (Psalm 14:13), the source of good or evil (Mat 13:33), and can be the source of love or destruction (Proverbs 17).
Listen, you have got to think about what you say and what you mean. Psalm 103 says, "The LORD is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive.", we should be no different. We need to think about our words, our Tweets, our Postings, and our texts.
Are you building up or tearing down? Are you helping or hurting? It may sound silly, it may sound cliche, but the next time your ready to say or type something take a deep breath and ask: What would Jesus do?
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Eph 4:29
If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. James 1:26
Last night I watched an episode of 20/20, and the show was on the case of the Rutgers University student that committed suicide after learning (or believing) that his roommate video recorded him and another man in his dorm room. For many who know the story, the roommate was convicted of a hate crime for spying. The episode presented both sides of the story, but one thing came out loud and clear to me, people talk and say things way too quickly and without much thought!
The entire episode played out how each roommate posted things on Twitter, on Facebook, and through text messages that were absolutely awful. When asked about these posts, the roommate simply said, "I didn't mean anything by it, thats just the way the kids talk."
I'm sorry, that is not an adequate answer. First, at 18-19 years old you are not just "kid". Secondly, assuming you were even younger, your words mean something. Your words can either build up or tear down. And in the age we live in today, where the words oftentimes are electronic and therefore permanent, your words carry even more power.
The Bible is clear: we need to keep control over our tongues. And if computers were around during the time of the Bible writers they would have said to keep control over your fingers too. Words are powerful. The Lord spoke the universe into existence using His Words. The Scriptures our clear, our tongues are to be gentle (Prov 15:4), guarded (Psalm 14:13), the source of good or evil (Mat 13:33), and can be the source of love or destruction (Proverbs 17).
Listen, you have got to think about what you say and what you mean. Psalm 103 says, "The LORD is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive.", we should be no different. We need to think about our words, our Tweets, our Postings, and our texts.
Are you building up or tearing down? Are you helping or hurting? It may sound silly, it may sound cliche, but the next time your ready to say or type something take a deep breath and ask: What would Jesus do?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Following in Jesus Christ's Footsteps
This a lesson I put together for my Sr High/Jr High Wednesday 180 class two week ago. It was really well received and I have had several people ask me for copies of it. So, here it is. I hope you enjoy it.
Follow the Leader: Jesus Christ
• Why are you here? Why do you go to church, 180 Youth Group, 180 events, etc?
• What does it mean to be a leader?
• What does it mean to be a follower?
• When should we be leaders and when should we be followers?
• Do you have a role model?
• Are you a role model to others?
A role model is somebody you desire to be like; someone who sets a good example. Christians today need a role model who encourages them to have faith and be strong through difficult times. The qualities a Christian role model should have are faith, loyalty, strength, dedication and not being influenced by public opinions.
!!There is a HUGE difference between being a witness and witnessing!!
Christ As Our Role Model
Winter is the season of NFL play-offs. Fall is the season of baseball’s World Series. How do we judge which team to cheer for if they are not our home-town team? One of the greatest influences of our choice of teams is the character displayed by players, managers, and owners of the team. What does it take to have such a reputation? It takes players and coaches with good Christian ethics; players and coaches who make good role models to millions of fans who follow them. Adults, and Youth in particular, often have role models. They may be sports figures, teachers, parents, military leaders...whoever the person can look up to as being successful and worthy of admiration.
1 Pet 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, [a role model] that you should follow in his steps.
(Heb 13:7 NASB) Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.
I would like to discuss you with 10 traits of Christ that you can and should adopt to follow in his steps, not just in suffering, which is what Peter is exemplifying here, but in the overall way that He lived.
1. Christ put God the Father first in his life and expects us to do the same.
John 5:30 By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him who sent me.
Mat 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
This is further exemplified in Mat 10:
Mat 10:37-38 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; {38} and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
What do we put before Christ and His lifestyle? A friend, a party, a reputation, our independence, our looks, our pride, pleasures? Do we allow our family or friends to influence us to disobey God's commandments? Are any of us ashamed to let others know we are a Christian? Real role models put ethics above self, every time.
2. Christ did not put on a front. He was completely genuine.
Luke 20:45-47 While all the people were listening, Jesus said to his disciples, {46} "Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. {47} They devour widows' houses (to gain possession of their property through wills, etc.) and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."
Does this scripture remind you of any religious leaders you've seen? Does it remind you of any ball players you know? How about political figures?
John 7:22-24 Yet , because Moses gave you circumcision (though actually it did not originate with Moses, but from the patriarchs), you circumcise a child on the Sabbath. {23} Now if a child can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses may not be broken, why are you angry with me for healing the whole man on the Sabbath? {24} Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment."
Verse 24 can be better understood by its Old Testament source:
Isa 11:2-4 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him-- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD-- {3} and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; {4} but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth......
Do we jump to conclusions, especially negative conclusions, about others? That's the easiest thing in the world to do.
Do we put on a front? And if we do, what is our motivation? To hide our true selves while we struggle to overcome...or to hide from others just to make a good impression? That's called vanity.
Mat 23:27 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like [whitewashed] tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean."
Kind of sounds like He's referring to a politician’s speech, doesn't it, especially in these days of the election campaigns? Make it sound good to make a good impression, while all the time knowing they're intentionally deceiving or fooling the public. Does this ever sound like you?
3. Christ had humility in spite of who he was.
Mat 19:16-17 Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Good Master, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" {17} "Why do you call me good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."
Although he was perfect, Christ passed the praise on to our Father. How do we accept praise ... by bragging further - like you hear from athletic events and locker rooms?
(Isa 66:2 NASB) "For My hand made all these things, Thus all these things came into being," declares the LORD. "But to this one I will look, To him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.
We are told to follow Christ’s example. Christ had humility...How humble are we (you)?
4. Christ was bold, courageous and uncompromising.
Mark 1:21-22 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. {22} The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.
Teachers of the law were like lawyers today. They preach confusion to win their cases. Too few base their arguments on ethical or moral standards, especially if it might risk losing their case.
Mark 3:1-5 Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. {2} Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. {3} Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, "Stand up in front of everyone." {4} Then Jesus asked them, "Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?" But they remained silent. (Do you remember the Arabs in the Madrid Peace Conference with Israel? They wouldn't answer questions, either.) {5} He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.
As Matthew describes it in Mat 12:11 & 12, it was OK to save a sheep on the Sabbath but not heal a man...And he rubbed their noses in it by having the handicapped man stand up in front of them so they couldn't miss the healing.
John 8:37-59 I know you are Abraham's descendants. Yet you are ready to kill me, because you have no room for my word. {38} I am telling you what I have seen in the Father's presence, and you do what you have heard from your father. " {39} "Abraham is our father," they answered. "If you were Abraham's children," said Jesus, "then you would do the things Abraham did. {40} As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. {41} You are doing the things your own father does." "We are not illegitimate children," they protested. "The only Father we have is God himself." {42} Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but he sent me. {43} Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. {44} You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. {45} Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! {46} Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don't you believe me? {47} He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God." {48} The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?" {49} "I am not possessed by a demon," said Jesus, "but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. {50} I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. {51} I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death." {52} At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. {53} Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?" {54} Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. {55} Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. {56} Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad." {57} "You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!" {58} "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" {59} At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.
The words of our Savior were blasphemy to them.
John 11:53 So from that day on they plotted to take his life.
How courageous and uncompromising are you about God's truth? When God’s Word is in opposition to your own thoughts and actions, do you change? Or, do you change God’s Word?
5. Christ was concerned about all kinds of people.
Mat 5:43-47 You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'
What is an enemy? What characteristics does an enemy have? Will an enemy try to destroy you by simply injuring or killing you? Or does an enemy try to hurt or damage you in any way he or she can? Can you tolerate character assassination; threats to your family; slander; threats to your livelihood, property or treasure?
{44} But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, {45} that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. {46} If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? {47} And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
How many of us have the same problem with someone else, possibly one of another race or social position?
Mat 9:10-13 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" came and ate with him and his disciples. {11} When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" {12} On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. {13} But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Are you a sinner or are you righteous? We have all known people whose actions and even words proved they thought themselves to be of the righteous group.
Luke 15:1-7 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. {2} But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." {3} Then Jesus told them this parable: {4} "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? {5} And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders {6} and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' {7} I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Do we (you) go out of our way to befriend worldly people?
6. Christ perceived human nature.
John 6:64 Yet there are some of you who do not believe." For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him.
We too should perceive who is out to get us. We must determine who is a good friend and who is not. We must decide who it’s good to hang out with, or date, and who is not. We must not be willingly blind to those who would harm us. But still we must be decent to them.
(Luke 21:12 NASB) "But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you to the synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for My name's sake.
(John 15:20-27 NASB) "Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. {21} "But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me. {22} "If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. {23} "He who hates Me hates My Father also. {24} "If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well. {25} "But they have done this in order that the word may be fulfilled that is written in their Law, 'THEY HATED ME WITHOUT A CAUSE.' {26} "When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, it will bear witness of Me, {27} and you will bear witness also, because you have been with Me from the beginning.
(Heb 11:35-38 NASB) Women received back their dead by resurrection; and others were tortured, not accepting their release, in order that they might obtain a better resurrection; {36} and others experienced mockings and scourgings, yes, also chains and imprisonment. {37} They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated {38} (men of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground.
7. Christ strove to please His Father.
(John 8:29) The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases Him."
(John 5:30 NASB) "I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
(John 6:37-38 NASB) "All that the Father gives Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. {38} "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Do we strive to please our Father?
(John 4:34) "My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Many people in the world around us want to please themselves first. Then, if they get around to it, they may do good to others. My friend Eddie Qualls' last sermon showed he cared enough to try and help out at flood relief centers. That is doing the will of Him who sent Christ.
8. Christ was concerned about our effectiveness
John 15:8 This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
(Psa 92:12-15 NASB) The righteous man will flourish like the palm tree, He will grow like a cedar in Lebanon. {13} Planted in the house of the LORD, They will flourish in the courts of our God. {14} They will still yield fruit in old age; They shall be full of sap and very green, {15} To declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.
Are we spiritually fruitful? If not, are we Christ's disciples?
Mark 6:30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught.
How is our productivity?...at school. Out with our friends, around the house, in Bible study, praying for others, being an example to others? Are you known as a producer or are you known as dead wood? Remember:
John 15:2 "He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he [prunes] so that it will be even more fruitful."
We must be spiritually productive.
9. Christ maintained his composure.
(Mark 4:37-40 NKJV) And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. {38} But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" {39} Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. {40} But He said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?"
Christ was not worried about perishing. We must have faith that He will protect us.
Luke 9:49-50 "Master," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us." {50} "Do not stop him," Jesus said, "for whoever is not against you is for you."
Christ did not get upset because he feared a competitor or unknown follower. What is our attitude about other people that may want to follow or imitate us?
Do we fly into a rage when things do not go our way or we feel threatened?
10. Christ served others.
(Mat 10:24 NASB) "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master.
(Mat 24:42-46 NASB) "Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. {43} "But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. {44} "For this reason you be ready too; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. {45} "Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household to give them their food at the proper time? {46} "Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes.
Luke 22:24-27 Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. [Sounds like certain professional athletes we've seen.] {25} Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. {26} But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. {27} For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
We should not elevate anybody to some superior status (pastor, etc…), but we should show our appreciation for each other. How do you serve? How do you respect those that serve you?
To sum it up: Follow in Christ's steps. He is the greatest role model in history!
Follow the Leader: Jesus Christ
• Why are you here? Why do you go to church, 180 Youth Group, 180 events, etc?
• What does it mean to be a leader?
• What does it mean to be a follower?
• When should we be leaders and when should we be followers?
• Do you have a role model?
• Are you a role model to others?
A role model is somebody you desire to be like; someone who sets a good example. Christians today need a role model who encourages them to have faith and be strong through difficult times. The qualities a Christian role model should have are faith, loyalty, strength, dedication and not being influenced by public opinions.
!!There is a HUGE difference between being a witness and witnessing!!
Christ As Our Role Model
Winter is the season of NFL play-offs. Fall is the season of baseball’s World Series. How do we judge which team to cheer for if they are not our home-town team? One of the greatest influences of our choice of teams is the character displayed by players, managers, and owners of the team. What does it take to have such a reputation? It takes players and coaches with good Christian ethics; players and coaches who make good role models to millions of fans who follow them. Adults, and Youth in particular, often have role models. They may be sports figures, teachers, parents, military leaders...whoever the person can look up to as being successful and worthy of admiration.
1 Pet 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, [a role model] that you should follow in his steps.
(Heb 13:7 NASB) Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.
I would like to discuss you with 10 traits of Christ that you can and should adopt to follow in his steps, not just in suffering, which is what Peter is exemplifying here, but in the overall way that He lived.
1. Christ put God the Father first in his life and expects us to do the same.
John 5:30 By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him who sent me.
Mat 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
This is further exemplified in Mat 10:
Mat 10:37-38 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; {38} and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
What do we put before Christ and His lifestyle? A friend, a party, a reputation, our independence, our looks, our pride, pleasures? Do we allow our family or friends to influence us to disobey God's commandments? Are any of us ashamed to let others know we are a Christian? Real role models put ethics above self, every time.
2. Christ did not put on a front. He was completely genuine.
Luke 20:45-47 While all the people were listening, Jesus said to his disciples, {46} "Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. {47} They devour widows' houses (to gain possession of their property through wills, etc.) and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."
Does this scripture remind you of any religious leaders you've seen? Does it remind you of any ball players you know? How about political figures?
John 7:22-24 Yet , because Moses gave you circumcision (though actually it did not originate with Moses, but from the patriarchs), you circumcise a child on the Sabbath. {23} Now if a child can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses may not be broken, why are you angry with me for healing the whole man on the Sabbath? {24} Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment."
Verse 24 can be better understood by its Old Testament source:
Isa 11:2-4 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him-- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD-- {3} and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; {4} but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth......
Do we jump to conclusions, especially negative conclusions, about others? That's the easiest thing in the world to do.
Do we put on a front? And if we do, what is our motivation? To hide our true selves while we struggle to overcome...or to hide from others just to make a good impression? That's called vanity.
Mat 23:27 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like [whitewashed] tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean."
Kind of sounds like He's referring to a politician’s speech, doesn't it, especially in these days of the election campaigns? Make it sound good to make a good impression, while all the time knowing they're intentionally deceiving or fooling the public. Does this ever sound like you?
3. Christ had humility in spite of who he was.
Mat 19:16-17 Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Good Master, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" {17} "Why do you call me good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."
Although he was perfect, Christ passed the praise on to our Father. How do we accept praise ... by bragging further - like you hear from athletic events and locker rooms?
(Isa 66:2 NASB) "For My hand made all these things, Thus all these things came into being," declares the LORD. "But to this one I will look, To him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.
We are told to follow Christ’s example. Christ had humility...How humble are we (you)?
4. Christ was bold, courageous and uncompromising.
Mark 1:21-22 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. {22} The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.
Teachers of the law were like lawyers today. They preach confusion to win their cases. Too few base their arguments on ethical or moral standards, especially if it might risk losing their case.
Mark 3:1-5 Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. {2} Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. {3} Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, "Stand up in front of everyone." {4} Then Jesus asked them, "Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?" But they remained silent. (Do you remember the Arabs in the Madrid Peace Conference with Israel? They wouldn't answer questions, either.) {5} He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.
As Matthew describes it in Mat 12:11 & 12, it was OK to save a sheep on the Sabbath but not heal a man...And he rubbed their noses in it by having the handicapped man stand up in front of them so they couldn't miss the healing.
John 8:37-59 I know you are Abraham's descendants. Yet you are ready to kill me, because you have no room for my word. {38} I am telling you what I have seen in the Father's presence, and you do what you have heard from your father. " {39} "Abraham is our father," they answered. "If you were Abraham's children," said Jesus, "then you would do the things Abraham did. {40} As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. {41} You are doing the things your own father does." "We are not illegitimate children," they protested. "The only Father we have is God himself." {42} Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but he sent me. {43} Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. {44} You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. {45} Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! {46} Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don't you believe me? {47} He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God." {48} The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?" {49} "I am not possessed by a demon," said Jesus, "but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. {50} I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. {51} I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death." {52} At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. {53} Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?" {54} Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. {55} Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. {56} Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad." {57} "You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!" {58} "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" {59} At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.
The words of our Savior were blasphemy to them.
John 11:53 So from that day on they plotted to take his life.
How courageous and uncompromising are you about God's truth? When God’s Word is in opposition to your own thoughts and actions, do you change? Or, do you change God’s Word?
5. Christ was concerned about all kinds of people.
Mat 5:43-47 You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'
What is an enemy? What characteristics does an enemy have? Will an enemy try to destroy you by simply injuring or killing you? Or does an enemy try to hurt or damage you in any way he or she can? Can you tolerate character assassination; threats to your family; slander; threats to your livelihood, property or treasure?
{44} But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, {45} that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. {46} If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? {47} And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
How many of us have the same problem with someone else, possibly one of another race or social position?
Mat 9:10-13 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" came and ate with him and his disciples. {11} When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" {12} On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. {13} But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Are you a sinner or are you righteous? We have all known people whose actions and even words proved they thought themselves to be of the righteous group.
Luke 15:1-7 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. {2} But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." {3} Then Jesus told them this parable: {4} "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? {5} And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders {6} and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' {7} I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Do we (you) go out of our way to befriend worldly people?
6. Christ perceived human nature.
John 6:64 Yet there are some of you who do not believe." For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him.
We too should perceive who is out to get us. We must determine who is a good friend and who is not. We must decide who it’s good to hang out with, or date, and who is not. We must not be willingly blind to those who would harm us. But still we must be decent to them.
(Luke 21:12 NASB) "But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you to the synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for My name's sake.
(John 15:20-27 NASB) "Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. {21} "But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me. {22} "If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. {23} "He who hates Me hates My Father also. {24} "If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well. {25} "But they have done this in order that the word may be fulfilled that is written in their Law, 'THEY HATED ME WITHOUT A CAUSE.' {26} "When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, it will bear witness of Me, {27} and you will bear witness also, because you have been with Me from the beginning.
(Heb 11:35-38 NASB) Women received back their dead by resurrection; and others were tortured, not accepting their release, in order that they might obtain a better resurrection; {36} and others experienced mockings and scourgings, yes, also chains and imprisonment. {37} They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated {38} (men of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground.
7. Christ strove to please His Father.
(John 8:29) The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases Him."
(John 5:30 NASB) "I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
(John 6:37-38 NASB) "All that the Father gives Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. {38} "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Do we strive to please our Father?
(John 4:34) "My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Many people in the world around us want to please themselves first. Then, if they get around to it, they may do good to others. My friend Eddie Qualls' last sermon showed he cared enough to try and help out at flood relief centers. That is doing the will of Him who sent Christ.
8. Christ was concerned about our effectiveness
John 15:8 This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
(Psa 92:12-15 NASB) The righteous man will flourish like the palm tree, He will grow like a cedar in Lebanon. {13} Planted in the house of the LORD, They will flourish in the courts of our God. {14} They will still yield fruit in old age; They shall be full of sap and very green, {15} To declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.
Are we spiritually fruitful? If not, are we Christ's disciples?
Mark 6:30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught.
How is our productivity?...at school. Out with our friends, around the house, in Bible study, praying for others, being an example to others? Are you known as a producer or are you known as dead wood? Remember:
John 15:2 "He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he [prunes] so that it will be even more fruitful."
We must be spiritually productive.
9. Christ maintained his composure.
(Mark 4:37-40 NKJV) And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. {38} But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" {39} Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. {40} But He said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?"
Christ was not worried about perishing. We must have faith that He will protect us.
Luke 9:49-50 "Master," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us." {50} "Do not stop him," Jesus said, "for whoever is not against you is for you."
Christ did not get upset because he feared a competitor or unknown follower. What is our attitude about other people that may want to follow or imitate us?
Do we fly into a rage when things do not go our way or we feel threatened?
10. Christ served others.
(Mat 10:24 NASB) "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master.
(Mat 24:42-46 NASB) "Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. {43} "But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. {44} "For this reason you be ready too; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. {45} "Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household to give them their food at the proper time? {46} "Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes.
Luke 22:24-27 Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. [Sounds like certain professional athletes we've seen.] {25} Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. {26} But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. {27} For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
We should not elevate anybody to some superior status (pastor, etc…), but we should show our appreciation for each other. How do you serve? How do you respect those that serve you?
To sum it up: Follow in Christ's steps. He is the greatest role model in history!
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Celebrating Purim- The Story of Esther
Purim is a very interesting holiday celebrated by Jews, primarily in America. This year it begins on March 7th with a fast, followed by two days of celebration. It's really a celebration of the Old Testament Story of Esther.
In the third year of his reign, the King of Persia, Ahashverosh (also known as Ahasuerus and Ahashuerus) decided to have a feast. It was on the seventh day of these festivities that the King summoned his queen, Vashti, to appear before him and demonstrate her beauty for the King's officials. Vashti refused to appear. Incensed, the King asked his officers for a suitable punishment. One advisor, Memuchan, argued that Vashti should be killed for her disobedience. The King took his advice and Vashti was killed.
As time passed the King desired a new queen. To find a suitable wife, a contest was initiated among all the eligible maidens in the kingdom. One of those was Esther, a Jewish girl. Esther, who was an orphan, had been raised by Mordecai, her uncle, after her parents' death. Mordecai instructed Esther not to divulge her Jewishness when she went to meet the king. Each day, Mordecai walked by the court and asked after his niece. Esther impressed all who met her, including the King, and she was elevated to queen. Meanwhile Mordecai, while sitting near the palace gate overheard a plot to assassinate the king. He immediately told Esther who reported it to the King in the name of Mordecai.
Years later the King elevated Haman, a descendant of Amelak, the traditional enemy of the Jews, to the position of chief advisor. Haman was a wicked and vain man who expected everyone to bow down to him. Mordecai refused to bow because Jews are to bow only before GOD. Not content to just punish Mordecai, Haman wanted to destroy the entire Jewish people in Persia. He cast lots or PURIM to determine the day of annihilation.
Haman went to the King, slandered the Jews, and convinced the King to go along with his plans. Upon learning of the plot, Mordecai tore his clothes, wore sackcloth and ashes, and walked through the city crying loudly. When Esther heard of Mordecai's display, she dispatched a messenger to discover what was troubling her relative. Mordecai recounted the details of the evil decree and instructed Esther to intercede on the Jews behalf. Esther agreed to appear before the King unannounced even though anyone who came to the King uninvited risked losing their life. She, therefore, instructed Mordecai to organize a three-day fast for all the Jews on her behalf.
After completing the three-day fast, Esther entered the king's inner court dressed in her most royal garb. The King granted her an audience promising her that virtually anything she would ask would be granted. Esther replied that she wished to invite the King and Haman to a banquet on that day. After the feast Esther asked the King and Haman to return for another banquet the following night. Haman left the banquet consumed with self- importance and pride, but these feelings were turned to anger when he saw Mordecai sitting at the gate of the King's palace and paying Haman no mind. Haman went home fretting over the impudent Mordecai. His wife, Zeresh, advised him to construct a gallows and ask the King that Mordecai be hanged. Haman joyously acted upon the suggestion.
That night, the King discovered that Mordecai had never been rewarded for saving him from the assassination plot of two servants. When Haman appeared in the court, the King decided that his trusted servant should determine Mordecai's compensation. Haman, intending to obtain the King's permission to hang Mordecai, unwittingly answered the King's questions. The King asked Haman"What should be done for the man the King wishes to reward?" Haman, believing that Ahashverosh intended to reward him, replied that the honoree should be dressed in royal clothing, ride upon a royal horse. And be led through the city streets by an official proclaiming "This is what is done to the man the King wishes to honor".
Ahashverosh agreed and instructed Haman to do what he had declared for Mordecai. Crestfallen, Haman followed the King's orders and dressed Mordecai in royal clothing and Haman led Mordecai around the city on a fine horse.
At Esther's second banquet Haman's downfall continued. Esther revealed Haman's villainous plot and the fact that she was Jewish. She asked the King to "grant me my soul and my people." Ahashverosh consumed with anger ordered that Haman be hanged on the gallows intended for Mordecai. The King elevated Mordecai to a position of great influence and allowed him to issue edicts permitting the Jews to fight their enemies. On the thirteenth and fourteenth of Adar the Jews won tremendous victories and were saved from the threat of total annihilation.
Ever since, Jews have observed Purim. The day before Purim is a day of fasting, in memory of Esther's fast. The fast is then followed by two days of dancing, merrymaking, feasting and gladness where Jews celebrate by telling this story, drinking, giving gifts to the poor, and food to each other.
Additionally, it is common for people to attend Purim services in costumes as part of the fun. And, kids write the name of Haman in chalk on the bottom of their shoes and carry noise makers. During the reading of Esther as part of the service, every time the name Haman is read aloud the children stamp their feet and make noise to blot out the name of Haman.
Like I said, this is a fun holiday and I hope my friends and family that celebrate Purim enjoy.
Khag Sameach!
In the third year of his reign, the King of Persia, Ahashverosh (also known as Ahasuerus and Ahashuerus) decided to have a feast. It was on the seventh day of these festivities that the King summoned his queen, Vashti, to appear before him and demonstrate her beauty for the King's officials. Vashti refused to appear. Incensed, the King asked his officers for a suitable punishment. One advisor, Memuchan, argued that Vashti should be killed for her disobedience. The King took his advice and Vashti was killed.
As time passed the King desired a new queen. To find a suitable wife, a contest was initiated among all the eligible maidens in the kingdom. One of those was Esther, a Jewish girl. Esther, who was an orphan, had been raised by Mordecai, her uncle, after her parents' death. Mordecai instructed Esther not to divulge her Jewishness when she went to meet the king. Each day, Mordecai walked by the court and asked after his niece. Esther impressed all who met her, including the King, and she was elevated to queen. Meanwhile Mordecai, while sitting near the palace gate overheard a plot to assassinate the king. He immediately told Esther who reported it to the King in the name of Mordecai.
Years later the King elevated Haman, a descendant of Amelak, the traditional enemy of the Jews, to the position of chief advisor. Haman was a wicked and vain man who expected everyone to bow down to him. Mordecai refused to bow because Jews are to bow only before GOD. Not content to just punish Mordecai, Haman wanted to destroy the entire Jewish people in Persia. He cast lots or PURIM to determine the day of annihilation.
Haman went to the King, slandered the Jews, and convinced the King to go along with his plans. Upon learning of the plot, Mordecai tore his clothes, wore sackcloth and ashes, and walked through the city crying loudly. When Esther heard of Mordecai's display, she dispatched a messenger to discover what was troubling her relative. Mordecai recounted the details of the evil decree and instructed Esther to intercede on the Jews behalf. Esther agreed to appear before the King unannounced even though anyone who came to the King uninvited risked losing their life. She, therefore, instructed Mordecai to organize a three-day fast for all the Jews on her behalf.
After completing the three-day fast, Esther entered the king's inner court dressed in her most royal garb. The King granted her an audience promising her that virtually anything she would ask would be granted. Esther replied that she wished to invite the King and Haman to a banquet on that day. After the feast Esther asked the King and Haman to return for another banquet the following night. Haman left the banquet consumed with self- importance and pride, but these feelings were turned to anger when he saw Mordecai sitting at the gate of the King's palace and paying Haman no mind. Haman went home fretting over the impudent Mordecai. His wife, Zeresh, advised him to construct a gallows and ask the King that Mordecai be hanged. Haman joyously acted upon the suggestion.
That night, the King discovered that Mordecai had never been rewarded for saving him from the assassination plot of two servants. When Haman appeared in the court, the King decided that his trusted servant should determine Mordecai's compensation. Haman, intending to obtain the King's permission to hang Mordecai, unwittingly answered the King's questions. The King asked Haman"What should be done for the man the King wishes to reward?" Haman, believing that Ahashverosh intended to reward him, replied that the honoree should be dressed in royal clothing, ride upon a royal horse. And be led through the city streets by an official proclaiming "This is what is done to the man the King wishes to honor".
Ahashverosh agreed and instructed Haman to do what he had declared for Mordecai. Crestfallen, Haman followed the King's orders and dressed Mordecai in royal clothing and Haman led Mordecai around the city on a fine horse.
At Esther's second banquet Haman's downfall continued. Esther revealed Haman's villainous plot and the fact that she was Jewish. She asked the King to "grant me my soul and my people." Ahashverosh consumed with anger ordered that Haman be hanged on the gallows intended for Mordecai. The King elevated Mordecai to a position of great influence and allowed him to issue edicts permitting the Jews to fight their enemies. On the thirteenth and fourteenth of Adar the Jews won tremendous victories and were saved from the threat of total annihilation.
Ever since, Jews have observed Purim. The day before Purim is a day of fasting, in memory of Esther's fast. The fast is then followed by two days of dancing, merrymaking, feasting and gladness where Jews celebrate by telling this story, drinking, giving gifts to the poor, and food to each other.
Additionally, it is common for people to attend Purim services in costumes as part of the fun. And, kids write the name of Haman in chalk on the bottom of their shoes and carry noise makers. During the reading of Esther as part of the service, every time the name Haman is read aloud the children stamp their feet and make noise to blot out the name of Haman.
Like I said, this is a fun holiday and I hope my friends and family that celebrate Purim enjoy.
Khag Sameach!
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