Rejoicing in Persecution

N. T. #39 "Rejoicing in Persecution"

April 3, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 9

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. (verse 11)

LET IT GLOW

Jesus warned us that people will revile and persecute us and falsely accuse us. We are to rejoice when we are persecuted for our faith. Has this happened to you lately?

Revile means rail at; chide; taunt; (suffer) reproach.

Persecute means to pursue; follow (after); suffer; press forward.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part He is evil spoken of, but on your part He is glorified. (1 Peter 4:12-14)

When this happens to us our faith should be strengthened. In fact, when we are persecuted. it proves that we have been faithful to Jesus. We are not better than Elijah, Jeremiah, nor Daniel. Persecution became true during Jesus' own ministry, in the lives of the apostles and Paul, and throughout the history of the church. May we be found suffering for good, for Christ's glory, because of our faith, not because we did bad or wrong.

The blood of the martyrs became the seed of the church. (Tertullian)

First Thessalonians 3:3 NLT says, We sent him (Timothy) to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that we are destined for such troubles. 

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (2Tim. 3:12)

LET IT GROW

Isn't it hard to believe that undergoing persecution is a blessing? The persecution is tied to Jesus. It is because we represent Jesus to sinners that it happens. Some people don't want us around because our life or words are convicting to them. We are in good company since they persecuted the prophets. In the midst of a mess, how can we be glad and rejoice? 

Paul explained in his letter to the Romans (8:18): For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worth to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 

He reminded in chapter 8 of Romans that they were heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ when we suffer with Him, so we will be glorified together. (verse 17)

So let us know that all things work together for good to them that love God and are the called according to His purpose. (verse 28)

Rejoice and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. ((Matthew 5:12)

LET IT GO 

Thank You Jesus that nothing can separate us from Your love. (verse 39)

We are more than conquerors through You that love us. (verse 37)

If God be for us, who can be against us? (verse 31)

Your love never fails, never gives up, and never runs out on us-Jesus Your love.

Help us keep on being faithful to You.

Are You Being Persecuted?

N. T. #38 "Are You Being Persecuted?"

March 30, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is teaching about the ethical life of a born-again person. It goes beyond the Law of Moses describing how the saved Christian and His disciples are to live. It is the spiritual character and quality of Jesus' kingdom that He desires to fulfill in the church. Are we being poor in spirit? do we mourn over our sins? Are we meek and humble? Do we hunger and thirst after righteousness? Are we merciful and pure in hear? Are we peacemakers? We can't do and be those without the Holy Spirit.

If so, then we can expect persecution. If we display those kingdom characteristics, we can expect to be mistreated. Some people won't like you doing so. 

Persecuted means to pursue; follow (after); suffer; press forward; fearful.

An interesting thing I discovered is the root word means servant. So it is the servants of Christ that are persecuted when they act righteously. Persecutions come in various forms and various sources (family, employer, culture, government).  

LET IT GROW

Those characteristics above are in contrast to the world in which we live. Especially these days, right? It is like the love, justice, and salvation we represent is rebelled against. People of the world want their way and we don't dare speak against it. Simply put, it is because they do not know Jesus and have His love in their heart. Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing in the church, for they are the ones always howling.

Do you feel like you are being persecuted? Then be happy, for yours is the kingdom of heaven. I know that is easier said than done. In receiving persecution, we will be in the company of a class of people (Hebrews 11) of whom the world is not worthy. (Heb. 11:38) If we are willing to be rejected by men to be accepted by God, the kingdom of heaven is ours. (Tony Evans)

John 15 and 16 has a lot to say about this. As followers of Christ, we should expect being persecuted because He was. Also, Paul suffered, too.

What are the rewards?

• Heaven. (verse 10)
• A special honor for being worthy of suffering shame for His name. (Acts 5:41)
• A consolation (comfort) (2 Cor. 1:5)
• A very special closeness, a glow of the Lord's presence.(1 Peter 4:14) When Christ is glorified, we have the Spirit of glory and of God. 

A greater witness for Christ; (Heb. 11:35) a better resurrection. [The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible]

LET IT GO

Give us strength to stand for the Truth, Word, and righteousness. 

Are You a Peacemaker?

N. T. #37 "Are You a Peacemaker?"

March 29, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 7

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (verse 9)

LET IT GLOW

Doesn't it seem as though there is always a conflict in our world? It may be between spouses, siblings, parent and child, employees and employer, even between nations. Someone needs to step up and be a peacemaker, help resolving problems and disputes so peace can flow.

Who are the peacemakers? 

• They are at peace with God and live in peace with all men. (Romans 5:1) 
• They follow peace with people and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)
• They enter the peace of Christ and thus are able ambassadors of God's message of peace to a troubled world. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Peacemakers are pacificatory (settle disputes); peacable.

To be at peace is to be in harmony. It's a mediator who resolves conflicts between estranged parties-whether individuals or groups. We make peace by identifying the truth, addressing the sin, and constructing a bridge between those who are at odds with one another. (Tony Evans)

Peacemakers erase divisions and reconcile differences, eliminating strife, silencing tongues, and building right relationships. There are plenty of troublemakers in the world, but are we a peacemaker? 

LET IT GROW

Jesus was sent to be our Mediator, bridging the gap created by our sin and granting us peace with God. Also, He resolves tension, strife, and hard feelings, as well as hurt feelings between people. When we look at ourself, we realize we are a sinner and self-centered just like the other person.

What will peacemakers be called? They will be called children of God.

LET IT GO 

Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow-nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Coming Clean

N. T. #36 "Coming Clean"

March 28, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 6

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. (verse 8)

LET IT GLOW

Did you get an opportunity last night to see the 5 planets in line and visible to us ? It was magnificent! To think that the all-powerful God who created the earth, sun, moon, and other planets by speaking them into existence allowed us to see how awesome He is by making those planets (and earth) out of nothing. I saw them with my eyes. They do exist. And so does our God! 

One day we will all be allowed to see this awesome God. We will all bow before His Holiness and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2:10)

How is it that we shall see God?

•  It is with a pure heart and by faith. (1 Cor. 13:12)
• We will see Him who is invisible to us right now. (Hebrews 11:27)
• Eternally, the pure in heart shall see God face to face. (1 Cor. 13:12)
• We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. (1 John 3:2)
• We will behold His face in righteousness; satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. (Ps. 17:15)

Are you prepared to bow before a holy God? Is your soul covered with the precious blood of Jesus? If not, then simply ask Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior. Only the truly saved and pure of heart shall see God and have heaven forever.  If you have, then rejoice that one day we will all experience seeing our loving Savior and God, living together with Him eternally! Halleluiah! Jesus has provided this way for us.

LET IT GROW

Friend, we are supposed to be happy about this. Verse 8 begins with blessed, which means happy.   Pure means clean; clear.

The pure in heart, saved, have transformed lives by the grace of God. We are not yet sinless but have a new birth of heart through saving faith in Jesus Christ. Here are some verses to help us:

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)

Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you. (Jesus said this in John 15:3)

But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)

According as He hath chosen us in Him (meaning Jesus) before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. (Ephesians 1:4)

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:23-24)

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. (2 Timothy 2:22)

I like what Tony Evans said: "Purity of heart involves being authentic, and this begins with honest before God. We must go to God with our hearts completely open because we're not hiding anything from Him; He knows everything already. so come clean with Him about the good, the bad, and the ugly, and you'll see Him operating powerfully in your life."  

LET IT GO 

Who am I that the King of heaven would come down to earth, endure all sorts of hate and evil, yet not sin; and ultimately die on a cross so I did not have to die/pay for my sins?

Jesus, I believe You are the way, the truth, the life for us.

Let us be sure to pray for those parents, grandparents, siblings, and classmates in Nashville today. Pray good will come out of an evil act of killing 6 people and the lost will come to Jesus, as they realize death is real and eternity is really forever.

Showing Mercy

N. T. #35 "Showing Mercy" 

March 27, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 5
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (verse 7)

LET IT GLOW

When someone has been mean to me, I try to turn the other cheek and love them instead of returning evil for evil. Now, I can't do it by myself. My nature wants to get back at them. Jesus helps me, and through me He loves them. That is mercy. I show mercy because I have first received the mercy of God.

This beatitude is so misunderstood in our day because it makes our obtaining mercy conditional on our being merciful. This is not the condition on which we obtain mercy. We should be merciful because we have obtained mercy. (J. Vernon McGee)

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of the Holy Ghost. (Titus 3:5) 

Those who have been born again by the mercy of God, have His divine love extended to them, and have the work of the Holy Spirit in them producing a mercy. We show mercy and kindness because we are saved.

Merciful means compassion; mercy means compassionate (by word or deed, specifically by divine grace); have pity on. 

Jesus is the ultimate example of mercy when He cried on the cross, Father, forgive them for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34)

First, we receive mercy from our God through Jesus. We deserve death and hell, but Jesus loved us so much that He gave His life in our place so we do not get what we deserve. Such love and mercy!

Have you received this mercy, dear one? 

LET IT GROW

Being merciful is having a forgiving spirit and a compassionate heart. It is more than forgiving a wrong. It is empathy, walking in their shoes and feeling what they feel. We reach out to do all we can, whether it is only prayer or meeting a need by doing. We are not to hold back, no matter the cost.

John asks how can the love of God dwell in us if we do not meet a brothers need and show no compassion (1 John 3:17) If a brother or sister is naked, hungry, and we do not give what is needed, only words, what does it profit? (James 2:15-16)  Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)

How can we show mercy?

• Giving bread to the hungry. (James 2:15)
• Clothe the naked.
• Pity the afflicted. (Job 6:14)
• Bear the burdens of others. (Galatians 2)
• Support the weak. (Acts 20:35)
• Comfort the grieving and strengthen the broken. (Job 16:5)

However we want people to treat us, we should treat them. (Matthew 7:12)

Then we will be bless. We find hope and joy and happiness serving God as we serve others.

LET IT GO

Jesus, we do not deserve Your mercy, yet You are merciful to us.

Thank You, Lord.

Help us show this mercy to others.

Are We Hungry and Thirsty?

 N. T. #34 "Are We Hungry and Thirsty?"

March 24, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 4

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. (verse 6)

LET IT GLOW

The natural man does not hunger and thirst for righteousness. Their concerns are for meeting their physical and emotional needs. They are in sin and may not know it. 

First Corinthians 2:14 says, But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

The Pharisees were only self-righteous. They did not submit themselves unto the righteousness of God. (Romans 10:1) They considered themselves able to keep the law, thus righteous. However, they did not love God and others as Jesus said were the greatest of the law of God. 

  For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (Romans 10:4)        There is none righteous, no, not one. (Rom. 3:10)                                                                           There is none good but one, that is, God. (Matthew 19:17)                                                              All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Rom. 3:23)

So many of God's children are malnourished spiritually. You know, donuts taste good, but have no nutritional value. We can't live on a donut-level spiritual diet and wonder why we don't experience God's blessings. (Tony Evans) 

LET IT GROW

We come short of righteousness, so we need to be clothed with the righteousness of Jesus Christ. It was the shedding of His blood that covers our sin-sick soul and makes us right with God. We need to be hungry for that which pleases God. If we train our appetite in this way we will be filled-satisfied with divine contentment. Let God satisfy our hungry soul.

Hunger means to famish; to crave; be hungered; pine; thirst means to thirst for; be thirsty; righteousness is equity of character or act; justification; innocent; free.

Faith is believing God and trusting the goodness of God, to take our faith and count it as righteousness. So, our faith in Jesus makes us righteous because Jesus is perfect righteousness. We need to be renewed in the spirit of our mind according to Ephesian 4:23. We must put off the old man with his deeds; and put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him. (Col. 3:9-10) Allow Jesus to change our heart, soul, and mind as we repent of our sins.

I hope that is clearer than mud. The key is to seek after God through faith in Jesus. Do we do it daily?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for dying for me, to take away my sins.

It is You that makes us right with God, not anything we can do, say, or be.

It's all about You.

That You would leave Your place on high to come and die for sinful mankind! What an amazing Savior!!

Are We Meek?

 N.T. #33 "Are We Meek?"

March 23, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

One summer, we took all of our grandchildren to an annual rodeo. I have seen strong and fast horses broken of their self-will. People ride and rule them, managing that strength under the rider's control. The horses can do amazing things. So it is with believers who submit their will to God's will.

As the disciples listened to Jesus preach the Sermon on the Mount, they heard how to be happy realize their spiritual poverty (poor). The kingdom of God is a gracious gift to those who sense their own poverty of spirit. Mourning over sin produces repentance leading to salvation without regret. (2 Cor. 7:10)

3. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (verse 5)

What does meek mean? Meek means mild; humble; bring low; humiliate.

Meekness is not weakness, but the opposite of being out of control. It is supreme self-control empowered by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:23)

Are we a humble, quiet, gentle, and forgiving person? Is our behavior and words under the control of Jesus?

When we submit our will to God's will, then we are blessed (happy). Are you surrendering? What has God done through you lately that only He could do?

LET IT GROW

What is the result of our being humble? First, we will inherit heaven. The faithful will share in the kingdom of God on the earth. During the Millennial reign of Christ, we will join those believers here for a thousand years of Christ Jesus on the throne. What a time!

We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. Keep in mind that only the Spirit of God can break us and make us meek. We can't be humble on our own; if we could, then we would be proud of ourself. Meekness is the fruit of the Spirit. 

[Resources: The MacArthur Bible Commentary; The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible]

LET IT GO

Fill us with meekness today, Jesus. 

We surrender to Your will, not our will.

Please bless us with Your peace today.

Glory to the God of heaven and earth.

Mourning and Comforted

N.T. #32 "Mourning and Comforted"

March 22, 2023 

Matthew 5-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

I like how Tony Evans put it: We could call the Beatitudes antibiotics from God's pharmacy that can aid life transformation. Each one includes a blessing, which is the God-given capacity to enjoy His goodness in your life and to extend that goodness to others. We are spiritual beggars that are continually dependent on God. We are inadequate and insufficient apart from Him. If we are poor in spirit, we will get to see God's heavenly rule in our earthly life.

2. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. (verse 4)

The word mourn means to grieve (the feeling or the act); wail.

Comforted refers to call near; invite; exhortation; pray; desire (give).

Are we saddened by the things that sadden God? He grieves over the sin and wretchedness of the world. Jesus lamented the disobedience of Jerusalem and wept over the existence of death, which sin produced. (John 11:35)

Isaiah 61 described Jesus. He was sent to heal the brokenhearted, comfort all who mourn, provide for those who mourn in Zion. Israel was mourning and sorrowful over the exile that their sins had caused. Their attitude was one of repentance. Are we mourning over the sins of our nation?

LET IT GROW

We must not become numb to the sinful ways of people in our world. Sin has consequences, so we must pray. 

In Isaiah 61, Jesus gives a crown of beauty instead of ashes, oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair. (verses 1-3) That is what is given to those who mourn over sin and are brokenhearted over its consequences.

Our hope is in Jesus, our Savior. Grace is a gracious gift for our spiritual bankruptcy. When we repent and admit our sins, seek forgiveness, then we are comforted-forgiven. 

In Luke 18:13 NLT, the Publican beat his chest in sorrow, saying, O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner. 

Jesus said that sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

LET IT GO 

Cause us to be sorrowful over the sins of our family and neighbors.

Show us their lostness, brokenness, needs.

Use us today to bring them to the Savior and Great Physician.

Thanks be to our Comforter, the Holy Spirit.

Are You Rich or Poor?

N. T. #31 "Are You Rich or Poor?"

March 21, 2023

Matthew 5

LET IT GLOW

Luke 6 names the 12 disciples of Jesus. Now Jesus began to teach his disciples. He was preparing them for ministry. Preaching and teaching, as well as discipleship, are not done only in the church, but also on the streets, in homes, on mountains, by the seashore-any place and every place.

Disciples means a learner; a pupil. The Greek word for disciples is mathetes (math-ay-tes').

Jesus lived this life before He described it. He is describing a Life of Blessedness, which is not dependent on outward possessions, like worldly goods or high birth. (F.B. Myer)

In the first 12 verses Jesus describes a true disciple who they are and their reward. He had a lot to teach His disciples. In fact, Jesus' message to them lasted 3 chapters for us to read. (5-7) So the Sermon on the Mount was directed to Jesus' disciples. (Don't confuse disciples from apostle, who saw Jesus). We can be a disciple of Jesus, a learner of His Word, but we are not an apostle since we have not seen Jesus. (The mount or hill on which Jesus taught His disciples here is located on the north side of the Sea of Galilee. What a beautiful place it is!

Do you want to learn more about Jesus and His kingdom? Are we hungry for His Word? Do we desire to learn more about how we Christians are to live so we are blessed, happy?

LET IT GROW

The word blessed means supremely blessed; fortunate; well off; happy.

Men seek to be happy, blessed, in things of this earth: position, money, fame, power, and sensual pleasure. this is his carnal, corrupt, and sinful life. (Romans 8:5-8) He is blinded and deceived to his real need, which is a renewed spirit-salvation is Jesus Christ.

How to have a Life of Blessedness:

1. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (verse 3)

The word poor refers to a beggar (as cringing); pauper; distressed. 

Are we distressed by our spiritual condition? do we admit to Jesus that we are in spiritual poverty? We are destitute and poor in spirit without Jesus. We are helpless before a holy God, for we do not have the righteousness He requires to be pleasing to Him. Only Jesus, who is God, is righteous. We are lacking in our works to get to heaven, but Jesus is The Way. Faith in Jesus makes us rich in the spirit. 

The poor in spirit has forgiveness of sin, fellowship with other believers walking with Jesus, and receive the gift of life that is forever-heaven.

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. (Hebrews 8:12)

Friends, do we realize how poor in spirit we are? Jesus is the way for us to be rich in the spirit. Heaven is awaiting for us. Blessings and happiness are around the corner for us who depend upon our God for all things. We may not be rich by the standards of this world, but we can be rich spiritually.

LET IT GO 

We need Thee every hour, Jesus.

Increase our faith, Jesus.

Thank You, Savior, for meeting our spiritual needs. 

Glory to Jesus!

Such Love!

N. T. #30 "Such Love!"

March 20

Matthew 4-Part 10

LET IT GLOW

How amazing it is to me to think that a holy God would come down to earth, live among sinners, and die in my place as payment for my sins and yours. Such love like no other! Do you know that kind of love, dear one? It is beyond our comprehension.

Three main activities in Christ's public ministry were teaching, preaching, and healing. The area of Christ's ministry included Galilee (4:12), Peraea , which was east of the Jordan River, (19:1) Judea (20:17), and Jerusalem (21:1). Decapolis was a league of 10 cities east of the Sea of Galilee, joined together for better trade and mutual defense. The word about Jesus was out, and Jews and Gentiles were coming long distances to hear Him. (verse 25) 

 Keep in mind that the book of Matthew was the first Gospel written. He was an apostle and eyewitness to the events of the life of Christ. Jesus preached the Good News to everyone who wanted to hear it. There were great multitudes who followed Him. After 400 years of God's silence to Israel, He had come in the form of Jesus Christ to heal physical and spiritual sickness. All were sin-sick. Jesus' words were good news because they offered freedom, hope, peace of heart, and eternal life with God.

LET IT GROW

2 Cor. 5:19-20 says, To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

We are all sinners in need of a Savior. There was and is now, no person who is not in need of Jesus. Will we share the Good News that He has come? Are we ready to share what Jesus has done in our life? Is hope of eternal life in heaven shared to those we come in contact with?

LET IT GO

Who will go for us? Send me.

Open our eyes to the needs of people in our little world. 

Good News!

N. T. #29 "Good News!"

March 17, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 9

LET IT GLOW

In John 1:40, we read of Andrew going to his brother Simon Peter, told him they had found the Messiah, the Christ, and brought Simon to Jesus. Jesus gave Simon Peter a new name-Cephas, which means Rock. Peter was fishing in the Sea of Galilee.  According to Matthew 4:19, Jesus called Andrew and Peter to follow Him and He would make the fishers of men.

And He saith unto them, Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. 

In the Greek, straighway means directly; at once; immediately.

They would never fully return to the occupation they once held so dear. There is no greater calling than to serve Christ full time with every effort of our lives. (Falwell)

Two other brothers, sons of Zebedee, were fishing and mending their nets on their father's ship. They were fishing partners with Simon and Andrew. Who were they? They were James and John. Immediately, the brothers left their ship, father, and job, to follow Jesus. Certainly, they did bring people into the kingdom of God, fishers of men.

Do we throw out nets, loving others to Jesus? Do we mend relationships and those men mended their nets? Is Christ our Lord, whom we obey, leaving whatever and whomever in order to do His will? Obedience and faith are important in following Jesus Christ.

LET IT GROW

The other disciples told their callings a little different from Matthew. The Galilean ministry of Jesus is summarized in the closing verses of Matthew 4:

• He taught in the synagogues,
• preached the gospel of the kingdom,
• healed all manner of sickness and diseases.
• His fame spread.
• People brought to Jesus folks who were sick, possessed of demons, epileptic, or paralyzed. 
• Jesus healed them all.

As a result, large crowds followed Jesus wherever He went. The spread of the Good News went to Jerusalem, Judea, and east of the Jordan River.

However, people thought and hoped that Jesus would establish His kingdom here on earth at that time. It was not the right time, though. 

Can you see the compassion and love Jesus had for the needy ones? Are we spreading the same? One day, Jesus will return for His children and take us to heaven during the Tribulation. After that, Jesus will establish His kingdom on earth, reigning for a thousand years. Are you ready?

LET IT GO

Fill us with Your love, Jesus, so help meet the needs of others.

Fill us with the Good News of a Savior which came and bare our punishment for our sins.

All hail King Jesus!

Fisherment of Men

N. T. #28 "Fishermen of Men"

March 16, 2023 

Matthew 4-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

We set aside some time yesterday to visit a couple. He had cancer surgery and still had a feeding tube in his nose. How difficult is was for him to endure. Yet the doctor assured them that all the cancer was removed. Tomorrow, he get the tube out. Endurance is difficult, but we must encourage those who need it. Jesus knew there were needy people in the Galilee area, so He called men to leave their professions and follow Him. They would meet the spiritual needs after Jesus left them. come with me down by the Sea of Galilee and observe what happened there.

Down at the Jordan River, where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, J. B. had two disciples there-Andrew and John (who became the Revelator). We find this in John 1:35, 37. John the Baptist identified Jesus as the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. So. Andrew and John realized who Jesus was-the Messiah, the Christ. (John 1:41)

Matthew does not give the details as John does in the first chapter. Andrew went to his brother, Simon Peter, and told him they had found the Messiah. Andrew brought his brother to Jesus.

Then Jesus began calling His disciples. He went up to the Sea of Galilee where Jesus found Peter and Andrew fishing. Philip lived in the same city of Bethsaida as they did.

In Matthew 4:19, Jesus called Peter and Andrew to Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. 

Of course, Jesus was referring to spiritually bringing people in the Kingdom of God. What was the reaction of Peter and Andrew? Immediately they left their nets and followed Jesus. Next, Jesus called James and John to follow Him. so they left their father, his ship and fishing nets to follow Jesus. (verses 21-22) They were brothers and the sons of Zebedee.

Have you heard the calling of Jesus to follow Him? 

LET IT GROW

I like how The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible describes those 4 men with 5 traits:

1. The men called by Christ were brothers who worked together.  They had good parents who taught them to love and care for one another. they came from a closely knit family. They followed and obeyed the teaching of their parents and maintained a brotherly spirit throughout life.
2. The men called by Christ were industrious workers. They were industrious, energetic, willing to worked hard.
3. The men called by Christ were called to immediately follow Him. Personal discipleship and attachment in learning about Christ is essential before serving Him. They only had 3 years.
4. The men called by Christ were called to another work. It was a different employment and profession, with a drastic change.
5. The men called by Christ were responsive. They immediately responded. It is a response for now, to get up now, and follow where Christ leads today. Sadly, may are called, but few are chosen.

Where is Jesus sending you and me today? Is there a need someone has that God wants us to meet? Are we willing to follow Him? Look where God is working and join Him-Blackaby says we will experience Him, then. What part does God want us to play in Kingdom work?

I don't want to miss out. What a blessing to follow Jesus! He is walking and talking with us as we go.

LET IT GO

May we be the Jesus someone needs today.

Share His love with those who need it.

Be encouragers.

Ain't nobody loved me like Jesus!

Do You Have The Light?

N.T. #27 "Do You Have The Light?"

March 15, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

Capernaum was a roman settlement near the Sea of Galilee. It was the center of Roman government of the northern provinces of Israel. Jews were deported from the northern kingdom of Israel and foreigners flooded into Galilee. Historians said that Egyptians, Arabians, Phoenicians, and Greeks live in Galilee. 

Jesus left Nazareth when there was an attempt on His life after a synagogue service there. Capernaum became the headquarters of Jesus' ministry to the house of Israel. Obviously, Jesus' intention was to ssave Gentiles as well as Jews. Matthew's application of Isaiah 9 shows that Jesus was the great King called "Mighty God" who would reign from David's throne over a universal and eternal kingdom, liberate God's people from spiritual slavery, and bring peace and joy to the world. (Did Matthew know this would take place after the Tribulation, not during his lifetime? Matthew 24 tells about all of that.)

LET IT GROW

( We do not read of Matthew's calling by Christ to be His disciple until chapter 9.  Thought I would throw that bit of information in here.)

Jesus had the same message as John the Baptist, "Repent." Jesus Himself is that Great Light which shone in His earthly ministry to the people of Galilee who had so long been despised by their Judean cousins, in the south. (It was the northern kingdom which fell under Assyrian rule in the Old Testament.)

Jesus wasn't calling the people to prepare for the coming of the kingdom of heaven, but rather announced that the kingdom was here-Jesus Christ. We will read later about Jesus' power to heale incurable diseases and afflictions by His touch and Word.  

Light had sprung up in the darkness. (verse 16) Man could either choose darkness or Light. Jesus brought hope for eternal life. (John 3:16) Whosoever believes on Jesus as the Savior can have everlasting life. Have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior?

LET IT GO

May Your Light shine through my life.

The Light of the world is Jesus.

The Beginning Required a Move

 N. T. #26 "The Beginning Required a Move"

March 14, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Next month, it will be year since our ministry was changed. We thought we could just settle down in a little country church and help the pastor minister there. How we enjoyed worshiping with family again! However, it was only for a short time. God had other plans for us. A wonderful church called my husband to be its pastor, only 30 minutes away. What an unexpected blessing! Needless to say, it was very hard to leave. What joy was waiting for us! Jesus had a similar task-to move His ministry to another place. 

Jesus begins His ministry as the Messiah. He showed the love of God to a hurting, wicked, and evil world. However, Jesus was in competition in ministry with John the Baptist. John's purpose had been fulfilled, his work for the kingdom was complete. He was put in prison. That was a sign to Jesus to take up where John left off, preaching repentance for the sinner. Jesus was bringing light into a dark world. 

What happened?

• Jesus heard of John's imprisonment. (verse 12)
• Jesus moved His headquarters of ministry from Nazareth to Capernaum, which is located north on the Sea of Galilee.(verse 12-13)
• This was a deliberate decision to fulfill Scriptures. (verse 14)
• Jesus was on mission now. (verses 15-16)
• He had a message. (verse 17) Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near. 

Jesus did not stop loving His cousin John, but John's ministry was over and Jesus began His. Isaiah 9:1-2 describes this area, where it was a hard ministry of Jesus. Gentiles had moved into the region because of the rough Roman reign. Jesus is the great Light that dwelt in the land of the shadow of death. His light shined upon the Gentiles until Jesus went into Jerusalem at the appointed time. 

Isaiah foretold of the coming Savior/Messiah in 9:6. ...His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

LET IT GROW

Why did Jesus leave Nazareth? After all, He grew up there and everyone knew Him, the carpenter's son. The people there would not accept Jesus' fantastic claim to be the Messiah. Luke 4 tells us Jesus preached in the synagogue on the Sabbath (Saturday) day. In verse 21, Jesus said, This day is this scripture fulfilled. (In reference to verses 18-19)

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. 

Jesus clamed to be the Messiah and the people rejected Him in Nazareth. Instead of believing Jesus to be the Christ, they were indignant and sought to cast Jesus over the side of the mountain into the valley below. Their wicked intentions was not carried out, for god saw to it. Jesus went away unhindered. 

I like Luke 4:30, And He passing through the midst of them went His way.

What Jesus said in verse 24 is true, No prophet is accepted in His own country. 

It is difficult to minister to the people with whom you grow up. Although, we did stay 22 years at one local church. Eventually, we had to leave. My husband's words were rejected. 

So Jesus was rejected by His hometown. He established His headquarters in Capernaum (20 miles away) and continued to minister in the Sea of Galilee area.

Has the Lord been working to move you somewhere else so you can minister to others? Trust Him to open the doors. If it be the will of God, it will be a success. 

LET IT GO

Trust and follow. Trust and obey. That is the only way to be happy in Jesus.

The Way, Truth, and Life

N. T. #25 "The Way, Truth, and Life"

March 13, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Three times the devil tempted Jesus to prove He was God's Son. Jesus resisted by quoting Scriptures. He said that man live (meaning spiritually) by God's Word, not only by bread. We are to not challenge God to prove Himself. We are to worship and serve only God. We have a Savior who knows what it is like to be tempted to sin, yet He did not yield and sin. 

Hebrews 4:15 says, For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 

Jesus was tempted in all points:

1. the lust of the flesh, (verses 2-3)
2. the lust of the eyes, (verses 8-9)
3. and the pride of life. (verses 5-6)

In similar ways, Eve was tempted as Jesus was: You won't die/hurt your foot, you may eat of any tree/by changing stones into bread, you will be like God/you can have all the world's kingdom.

The difference between Eve and Jesus is that shee yielded to the temptations and Jesus did not yield. Oh, Satan knew who Jesus was, though he tried to get Jesus to violate the plan of God and use wrongly the divine power Jesus had set aside in His humiliation. 

Philippians 2:7 tells us, But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. 

Have we learned to trust Jesus to meet our needs or are we doing it ourself?

LET IT GROW

MacArthur gives us another perspective concerning Moses with the Israelites in the wilderness:

• God allowed Israel to hunger so that He might feed them with manna and teach them to trust Him to provide for them. Scripture nurtures our spiritual needs in a way that benefits us eternally, rather than merely providing temporal relief from physical hunger.
• Satan is good at twisting words around. Grumbling Israelites put the Lord to the test, angrily demanding that Moses produce water where there was none. 
• Satan is called the "ruler of this world" (John 12:31) and the "god of this age" (2 Cor. 4:4), but God is more powerful than he is. 

Trusting God seems to be the thread running through those events. Let's remember that Satan is a liar and twists words for his benefit, not ours. Trust in God's way being the right way and His timing being the perfect timing. I needed to hear that. Maybe you did, too.

LET IT GO

Help us resist the devil so he will flee from us. 

Thank You Jesus for being the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6)

How wonderful You are!

Glory to God in the Highest! 

Pride

N. T. #24

March 10, 2023 "Pride"

Matthew 4-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread (meet physical needs) after fasting 40 days. Then his next temptation was to throw himself down off the pinnacle of the Temple, for angels would rescue Him. This was a temptation to show His power as the Son of God. 

The third temptation took place on an exceedingly high mountain. What did Satan offer Jesus? It was all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them with one condition. What was the condition? It was Jesus falling down and worshiping him. 

Isn't it kind of laughable for Satan to offer this when God created it all, not Satan, and God was still on His throne controlling things as the world is His footstool. How absurd it is, actually. In reality, Satan could not deliver on this promise.

The bottom line is Satan wants our worship and for us to bow to him. He always makes nice offers, but does not come through with the promises, for he is a liar.  It isn't worth the price of yielding to sin.  Only Jesus deserves our worship. He is our Creator, Savior, and Messiah, Almighty God, Prince of Peace. No other deserves our worship. Jesus gave His live in our place, bearing our sins, not His, so we could have eternal life in heaven. What a sacrifice!

LET IT GROW

Jesus had finally had enough of that old devil. Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 13-14, Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve Him, and shalt swear by His name. Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you.

Our worship should be reserved for the One True Living God. 

Resist the devil [with the Word and in obedience to God], and he will flee from you [as he fled from Christ]. James 4:7

We lust for power and humans. It is a pride that raises its ugly head in our life, causing us to stumble into sin. We want to be numeral uno-number 1 or we want to be like others. We want what they have. Why do we have trouble living the Christian life? Not knowing the Word of God so they can use it when tempted.

This was not the last time the devil tempted Jesus. He has nothing to prove. Jesus was born King, baptized as a King, and was tested as a King. He is King of kings and Lord of lords today! One day Jesus will reign as King over all the earth.

When the fallen angel left, faithful angels came and fulfilled their role of serving Christ and giving Him the worship He deserved. (Tony Evans)

What can we learn from this? Follow the Lord's leading, not Satan's. Live by faith, not presuming god understands our weakness and will forgive us, presumptuously. God uses a holy life. Let's resist the devil and he will flee from us. Use the Word on him. Follow God's plan, not our own. Have no regrets in the end. Let's not waste our days on self, but serve God. No more if's-Jesus is the Son of God.

LET IT GO 

Jesus, You are all my hope and righteousness.

What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

The Temptation of Power

N. T. #23"The Temptation of Power"

March 9, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

The first temptation was Satan challenging Jesus to change the stones into bread. This would have satisfied His physical hunger. Jesus did not yield to the temptation, but quoted Scripture. Man

What was Jesus challenged to do?  is not only to live by bread, but by the Word of God.

The second temptation of Jesus to sin took place on the pinnacle of the Temple. Satan took Him there.

Pinnacle means extremity (top corner).

You know that Jerusalem is located on a hill. We were able to see that partial corner of the wall which remains. It is up high. Jesus would have been able to see for miles while sitting there.

What was Satan's second challenge? It was to show Jesus' power if He is the Son of God. Satan even used the tactic of quoting Scripture, yet it was not correct. 

And saith unto Him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against stone. (verse 6)

(Notice that thou and thee are not capitalized because Satan did not recognize Jesus as part of the Trinity of God and deity.) 

Jesus had an opportunity to show He was the Messiah for all Jerusalem to see. Had He done so, Jesus would have done His will and not the Father's will and plan for His life. Satan tried to get Jesus to bypass the cross. 

We need to have our spiritual eyes and ears open to the voice of God, not the temptations of sin.

LET IT GROW

Psalm 91:11-13 says, For he shall bie his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 

Notice that Satan left out "to keep Thee in all Thy ways." Also, Jesus will ultimately defeat devil and cast him into hell forever.-the lake of fire and brimstone. (That part was left out.) Revelation 20:10)

What a day that will be!

How did Jesus answer the devil's temptation to sin?

Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. (verse 7)

Jesus was quoting Deuteronomy 6:16. 

Tempt means to test thoroughly.

It would have been a presumptuous action to see if God would protect Jesus. We are not to put ourself in harm's way just to see if God would rescue us. That would be a lack of faith. 

Keep in mind that the devil knows Scripture but will quote it wrongly for his advantage. God does not need Satan's help to get us where He wants us to go. We are to never use disobedience to back God into a corner to force Him to fulfill His plan. (Tony Evans)

God is not to be tested. His will, His power, His protection, His promises are not to be presumed upon or taken advantage of or misused. God is to be trusted. His will and His Word are to be trusted and obeyed just as they are laid down; all things are to be done exactly as He says. Do we believe God because we love Him as our Father, not because of events and happenings? (Is. 43:10) Christ's mission was to focus people's attention on faith in God, His eternal kingdom, and their need for God. 

[Resource: The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible]

LET IT GO

Help us not focus on the spectacular, but on You, Jesus.

Show us when we are tempted to sin.

Whose Will and Way?

N. T. #22 "Whose Will and Way?"

March 8, 2023

Matthew 4-Part 2

And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. (verse 3)

LET IT GLOW

Jesus was in the wilderness 40 days and 40 nights fasting, without eating food. It was after the baptism of Jesus that the Spirit led him there. Jesus spent time alone with God. Was Jesus studying Scriptures while there? Or did it come automatically for Him? Was Jesus asking His Father God what was planned next for His life on earth? Perhaps He remembered the plans they made in heaven before creation began. Guess we will have to ask Him in heaven, but it really won't matter then, will it?  Anyway, Satan had been watching Jesus go without food while He was in the wilderness. (Satan knows what we are up to, too, and directs his temptations accordingly. Tony Evans)

The devil comes to Jesus with temptations in the areas that mankind is weak-physically, spiritually, and psychologically. Perhaps the devil thought Jesus would have the same weaknesses. Keep in mind, the devil knew who Jesus was-the Son of God. They were in heaven together, previously, before the devil fell into sin and was cast out of heaven. Yet, Satan was enticing Jesus to use His powers as the Son of God to meet His own needs. Jesus did not do miracles for Himself, but to meet the needs of others. 

Keep in mind that the devils believe there is a God and tremble. (James 2:19)

Tremble means shudder; to bristle or chill;(fear).

In verses 3 and 6, the word if is used by the devil. Here, if means whether; that; though; for as much as.

I figure the devil said verse 3 sarcastically," Since You are the son of God, tell the stones to become bread."

What was Jesus' answer? He used the Word of God in Deut. 8:3 ... man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.

Jesus said in John 4:32, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. 

Jesus had been feasting on the Word of God, which is more important than bread itself. By the way, Jesus is the Bread of Life. He said so in John 6:48. He is the substance we need for our hungry soul that satisfies.

Dear friend, have you devoured this Bread? Jesus will satisify and meet what needs you have in your soul

LET IT GROW

What was wrong with Jesus proving He was the Son of God?

Faith is God's way, not proof. Faith is what God wants, not proof. He wants to be trusted and freely loved. Since no one now has seen God/Jesus, we believe by faith that He is and always has been. God is not known by our physical senses. We believe in our heart who Jesus is-Creator, King, Savior.

Without faith it is impossible to please Him (God); for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Jesus lived a life of faith. He had to walk the way of faith, of trusting and believing God Himself. He had to reject the devil's way of proving who He is so Jesus could lead people by faith. 

Resource: The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible]

I had not thought of it this way. Jesus was obedient to God's will, not His own will or the devil's will. So whose will are we striving to fulfill? Whose ways are we following?

LET IT GO

Your will,

your way,

Today, always, 

I pray. 

Work on me so I will be... 

When Was Jesus Tempted?

N. T. #21" When Was Jesus Tempted?"

March 6, 2023

Matthew 4

Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. (verse 1)

LET IT GLOW

Does chocolate tempt you? It doesn't me, for I don't like chocolate. I know, others consider me weird, not normal, strange, etc. Now give me caramel in any form, that tempts me. Last night, we had ice cream after worship time. Some put chocolate syrup on top of theirs, but not me. Guess what I put on top of me-caramel. Jesus was tempted by the devil and that is what we are going to look at today.

So far in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus left heaven and was born so He could identify with us. He grew up as any other child did, except He was without sin. At His baptism, Jesus put on our sin and identified with us. Now He is going to be tested in order to prove this King is able to withstand a test/tempted and be an overcomer. Since Jesus did not yield to the temptations of the devil, He proved that He was the Son of God, and showed us true obedience. 

Keep in mind that God is never the agent of temptation. (James 1:13) However, God uses even satanic tempting to serve His sovereign purposes. Christ was tempted in all points. (Heb. 4:15; 1 John 2:16) (MacArthur)

Note that it was when Jesus was tired, alone, and hungry and thus most vulnerable when He was tempted. At our low point or victorious high point in life, we can be tempted to sin.

What do we know occurred before the temptations? 

• Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness. So this confrontation was not an accident. The devil had an agenda-cause Jesus to worship him, not God.
• Jesus got alone in the wilderness. And wilderness it is, west of the Dead Sea. Today the mountains are of clay, not dirt and greenery.
• Jesus fasted there 40 days and 40 nights. (verse 2)
• Jesus was hungry after that time.
• When Jesus was at His low point physically, then the devil came to Him; it was not at the beginning of the fast nor 20 days later. 

In the Greek language, devil means false accuser; slanderer.

Isn't that what the devil is good at-accusing and slandering? We need to know what is truth and what are lies. We need to know Scriptures so we can stand firm in the time of our temptations. Jesus used Scriptures to refute the devil and so can/must we.

LET IT GROW

Christians have to be careful and alert constantly. 1 Peter 5:6-8 tells us Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 

Let us humble ourself before Almighty God, cast all our cares upon Him, stay alert and watch out for our enemy the devil. He wants to devour us, chew us up and spit us out like a lion. (Only a lion eats his prey.) Stand firm against him and be strong in our faith. (NLT)

LET IT GO

Jesus, You know our weaknesses and down falls and short comings.

Strengthen our faith in You, Savior.

You are all powerful. 

What an awesome Savior we serve, for You walked this road of life and did not sin even once.

What Jesus' Baptism Teaches Us

N. T. #20 "What Jesus' Baptism Teaches Us"

March 6, 2023 

Matthew 3-Part 9

And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him. (verse 16)

LET IT GLOW

When Jesus came to John the Baptist in order to be baptized by him, John felt he was the one who needed to be baptized by Jesus, instead. Jesus was baptized so they would please God and carry out all that God requires. It was to fulfill all righteousness. (verse 15)

In the Greek language, righteousness means equity (of character or act); justification. Equity means straight; uprightness. 

I like how J. Vernon McGee put it:

1. Jesus is identifying Himself completely with sinful mankind. Isaiah prophesied that He would be numbered with the transgressors. (Isa. 53:12) Jesus was holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners. He was baptized to completely identified Himself with humanity.
2. Jesus was baptized to be symbolic of death. He entered into death for you and for me. 
3. At this time Jesus was set aside for His office of priest. The Holy Spirit came upon Him for this priestly ministry. Everything Jesus did, His every act, was done by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin: that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Cor. 5:21)

Friend, have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior and Lord? Are we followers trusting in Jesus in all aspects of our life?  Have you been saved and baptized, friend?

LET IT GROW

Since baptized means fully wet, Jesus was immersed completely in the Jordan River, not sprinkled. What happened when he went up straightway (at once; immediately) out of the water? 

Here we have a manifestation of the Trinity. As the Lord Jesus is coming out of the water, the Holy Spirit comes upon Jesus like a dove, and the Father speaks from heaven. God is one, yet in 3 persons at the same time. It is an incomprehensible mystery for us. (Ps. 2:7; Isaiah 42:1)

All three members of the Godhead inaugurated Jesus' ministry. God was well pleased with His Son, Jesus. Publicly, the Holy Spirit and the Father endorsed the Son for His kingdom mission. Thus, He was prepared for battle with the enemy. (4:1-11) (Tony Evans)

What lessons can we learn from Christ's baptism?

1. Righteousness-Every commandment of God must be fulfilled in the believer's life.
2. Sacrifice-Believers should be willing to give of himself that he would die in order to life for God.  (Luke 9:23)
3. Humility-We should be show humility in serving others. (1 Peter 5:5)
4. Identifying with others-We should not exclude others from our life, for they have needs, too. (Galatians 6:2; Romans 15:1)
5. Pioneering the life of repentance and righteousness. All people need to repent of sin and live rightly with our God. (Acts 8:22; Isaiah 55:7)
6. Ministry-We are all to minister unto others by showing mercy, doing good. (Luke 10:36-37; John 13:14; Galatians 6:10) 

[Resource: The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible]

Jesus Christ calls us to be faithful to Him by serving God and others. We may feel unworthy or lacking in ability, but Christ has given us spiritual gifts and power to carry it out. We are to yield and accept the tasks God has for us in His kingdom work. Blessings will rain from heaven upon us, then.

LET IT GO 

Keep us humbly serving You, God.

Show us the needs of others today so we can help meet them.

Baptism

 N. T. #19 "Baptism"

March 3, 2023

Matthew 3-Part 8

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. (verse 13)

LET IT GLOW

I finally found it, the notebook which held my writings from the beginning of Country Road Faith. It was dated May 17, 2010. Wow! What blessings and endurance the Lord has given to me throughout these13 years. So I want to say a big thanks to all of you who have faithfully remained with me in this walk through the Bible and along the road of faith. I hope it has been as refreshing and enlightening to you as it has been with me. Hopefully, this year will be an improvement over writings back then :) 

So far, we have studied about the lineage of Jesus through Joseph, His adopted father. Then some highlights in the early years of Jesus Christ. Now the public ministry of John the Baptist. (Luke goes into detail about the early years of John and Jesus.) 

In this third chapter, we have found out about John's message of repentance of sins, especially to the Pharisees and Sadducees, and multitudes. Also, the description of the Christ. (verses 11-12) The beginning of Christ's three-year ministry began with His baptism by John. (Mark and Luke give us more details about the younger Jesus.)

Jesus grew up in Nazareth and around the Sea of Galilee. That was a large part of where Jesus' ministry took place. (Jerusalem, also) Is it important where we grow up, where we live as an adult? I think so. God has us in various areas of America and around the world. He has us in our spot to be His witness and to serve in different churches. 

LET IT GROW

All 4 Gospels record this event to verify Jesus' baptism. Jesus went south to the Jordan River to be baptized (baptizo-fully wet) by John the Baptist. John's work was going well, people were taking notice, and everything grew. His purpose was to prepare the way for Jesus. 

Shall we stand by in the crowd watching what happened?

• John tried to talk Jesus out of John baptizing Him. Jesus needed no repentance of sin, for Jesus committed no sin. Wasn't John convessing his need for Jesus?
•  "I am the one who needs to be baptized by You, so why are you coming to me?," John asked.
• Jesus said it was to carry out all that God requires. (to fulfill all righteousness-to accomplish God's mission for Him) (verse 15)
• As Jesus was baptized, He was confessing the sins on behalf of Israel, supporting what John was doing, inaugurating His public ministry, and identifying with the penitent people of God. 
• Jesus accepted baptism in obedient service to the Father God.

In His substitutionary death on the cross, Jesus would bear the transgressions of sinners and credit them with His perfect righteousness. (2 Cor. 5:21) (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

Will John be able to turn his followers over to Jesus? Can we, like John, put our egos and profitable work aside in order to point others to Jesus? Are we willing to lose some of our status so that everyone will benefit?

LET IT GO

Help us let go of our wants, egos, things, in order to bring others to You, Jesus the Savior.

May You be lifted up, Jesus, so people will be drawn unto You.

Fill us with humility and the Holy spirit so we can accomplish You Kingdom work for Your glory, Jesus.

Are You Wheat or Chaff?

N. T. #18 "Are You Wheat or Chaff?"

March 2, 2023

Matthew 3-Part 7 

LET GLOW

Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. (verse 12)

LET IT GLOW

In the Greek language, fan means winnowing-fork.

The fan was like our pitchfork, a tool used by the farmer to pitch grain. Dad used to use it to get the hay left over in the back of the pick up when he had finished throwing out the bales of hay to the cows in the field. (Hay is dried cut grass baled together with twine wrapped around it to keep the sections together.) 

So the farmers in biblical times used such an instrument (fan) to separate the wheat from the chaff in order to use it for food. Chaff is the seed covering. We eat the seeds of grain used in cereal and flour, which is ground up. Wheat is the good part, while chaff is the bad part for people. 

Farmers back then would us the winnow to toss the grain into the air so the wind would separate the wheat and the chaff.  They would gather the wheat for use and burn the chaff. 

LET IT GROW

When Jesus returns, He will gather His own (believers) wheat who love Him and take them to heaven. Then He will judge those who do not and judge them with justice.

Those who will not repent of sins and receive Jesus as Savior will experience the eternal wrath of God for their sins with fire that never goes out. (Tony Evans)

Have you received Jesus as your Savior?

LET IT GO

Jesus keep us near You, a precious fountain of grace.

May we be a witness of Your love for sinners today.

Who is the Holy Spirit?

N. T. #17 "Who is the Holy Spirit?"

March 1, 2023

Matthew 3-Part 6

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mighter than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. (verse 11)

LET IT GLOW

Look at the humility of John the Baptist in verse 11. John admits that someone who is coming (Jesus) is mighter than he is; John says he is not even worthy to be His slave and carry His sandals. God did a work in this man's heart, for it takes humility to admit someone is greater than we are, right? 

John's declaration corresponds to the promise of the prophets (Ezek. 36:27; Joel 2:28), and the confirmation of Jesus (John 14:16; 15:26; Acts 1:4-5), and the fulfillment in the early church (Acts 2:1-4; 10:44-45). [The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

Jesus said He was sending a Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, who testifies of Jesus. 

Look at what the LORD God said to Ezekiel: A new heart also will I give you, and a new Spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statues, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do them. (36:26)

Folks, isn't that what we need today in our churches? We need to submit to confess our sins, have a new heart, and submit to God's Spirit. Then we will be able to walk in His Work and do it. What a blessed church to attend it will be!

LET IT GROW

John the Baptist says that his baptizing symbolizes a personal cleansing of repentance on the part of a believer. The difference between John's baptizing and Jesus' baptizing is that John's baptizing was with water and Jesus' baptizes with the Holy Spirit. 

The triune God is one God in 3 persons. The person at work on earth today is the Holy Spirit. We need a relationship with the Holy Spirit, who provides a relationship with the Son, who provides a relationship with the Father. 

Similarly, I am a wife, mother, and daughter, yet I am one person. When we put it in perspective, it is easier to understand the trinity of God-the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

Friend, have you followed Jesus in baptism? Have you been saved, trusted Jesus as your Savior? Simply ask Him, admitting you are a sinner. How wonder it is to walk with Jesus daily!

LET IT GO

Thank you, Jesus, for allowing us to be Your servant.

May You receive glory, honor, and praise. 

How great and awesome You are!

God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good.